51 32 1900 http://www.seafarerslog.org/archives/files/original/8d71143ca492d397f6acc0fc78923b03.pdf ac73073ac907070b11cddad8cf272f0e PDF Text Text 63364_Log_Mar2011:January 08 2/18/2011 8:04 AM Page 1 Volume 73, Number 3 March 2011 M arA d A w ard s Fa st Se ali f t S hi p C on trac t s ■ O c e a n S hi p ho l d i n g s ■ Ke y s t o n e ■ I nt e r o c e a n A m e r i c a n S h i pp i ng The SIU will retain all unlicensed jobs aboard eight fast sealift ships and two telemetry vessels following the government awards in mid-February of operating contracts covering the 10 ships. Keystone will operate the fast sealift vessels (also known as SL-7s) Regulus, Pollux, Denebola and Antares (pictured above). Interocean American Shipping will operate the Altair and Bellatrix in addition to continuing operation of the telemetry vessels Pacific Collector and Pacific Tracker. Ocean Shipholdings, Inc. will operate the Algol and Capella. The respective agreements are for one year apiece but with options that would extend their terms to five years. Turnover is scheduled for March 1. Page 2. SIU-Crewed Vessels Assist In Key Military Exercises The Seafarers-crewed USNS 1st LT Jack Lummus and USNS 1st LT Harry L. Martin recently played important roles in an annual military exercise known as Cobra Gold. The SIU-crewed vessels also assisted in a related drill known as Freedom Banner. In photo below, a powered lighterage module is offloaded from the Lummus off the coast of Chuk Samet, Thailand. Page 10. (U.S. Navy photo by Ed Baxter) Maritime Task Force Honors Rep. Miller U.S. Rep. Candice Miller (R-Mich.) (fourth from right) on Feb. 9 received the Great Lakes Legislator of the Year award from the Great Lakes Maritime Task Force. Rep. Miller, who represents Michigan’s 10th District in the House of Representatives, was recognized in Washington, D.C. Pictured at the ceremony are (from left) Rep. Hansen Clarke (D-Mich.), Don Cree of the AMO, Rep. Marcy Kaptur (D-Ohio), Bill Yockey of the ILA, Rep. Miller, Rep. Betty Sutton (D-Ohio), SIU VP Great Lakes Tom Orzechowski and John D. Baker of the ILA. Page 4. Celebrating Holidays In the Port of Norfolk Seafarers, retirees, family members and guests got together at the union hall in Norfolk, Va., for an annual holiday celebration. Among those enjoying the festivities were GUDE Robert Day, his wife, Tish, and their daughters Rahquel and Milan. Page 6. Jones Act News Page 2 Piracy Update Page 3 Pride of America on ‘Undercover Boss’ Page 4 �63364_Log_Mar2011:January 08 2/18/2011 8:04 AM Page 2 Pr esi d ent ’s R ep or t Battle to Protect Maritime Industry Our industry got a shot across the bow in mid-February when the president’s proposed budget severely cut a vital program known as cargo preference and basically didn’t fund another key initiative called the Title XI Shipbuilding Loan Guarantee Program. I know that for rank-and-file Seafarers, talks about budgets and appropriations may not seem very interesting, but the important part of this development is that both cargo preference and Title XI mean American maritime jobs, including shipboard employment. They create and sustain related shoreside work, too, and that’s not a light consideration in the face of today’s staggering unemployment figures. The budget battles are far from finished, and the maritime industry certainly isn’t the only one to feel a financial squeeze during these ongoing, difficult economic times. However, not all of the recent news Michael Sacco from Washington was as troubling – the budget request includes full funding of the crucial Maritime Security Program (MSP), for instance. Meanwhile, Seafarers should know that your union constantly promotes the laws and programs that are the very foundations of the U.S. Merchant Marine. They include the MSP, the Jones Act, cargo preference, Title XI and others. In recent months, especially since Election Day, we have joined with representatives from virtually every segment of our industry to remind Congress and the administration that America’s national and economic security depend in part on maintaining a viable fleet of American-crewed, militarily useful, privately owned U.S.-flag ships. Within that equation is maintaining a strong shipbuilding capability; that’s a lesson our country learned during World War II, and one we can’t afford to forget. In the coming weeks, you may be asked by your port agent to help continue educating our elected representatives about the importance of laws like cargo preference and Title XI. Grassroots political action remains one of our greatest strengths, and I know you will answer the call when it comes. Supporting Our Military Our role as part of the nation’s fourth arm of defense often involves direct support of our troops who are fighting to protect our freedom. It also involves other military and government support missions that are less-publicized but quite important, too. Recently, two such instances took place. In one case, SIU members assisted in a vital, multinational military exercise known as Cobra Gold, along with a related drill. In another, Seafarers helped resupply the research facility at McMurdo Station in Antarctica. Both of those projects – enthusiastically deemed successful by military officers – are annual endeavors. Both highlight the professionalism, reliability and diverse skills of SIU members. My hat is off to our Seafaring brothers and sisters who helped make it happen. Jobs, Jobs, Jobs! By now you all know that my favorite four-letter word is j-o-b-s. On that front, we got some great news last month when the Maritime Administration announced that operating agreements for eight fast sealift ships and two telemetry vessels had been awarded to SIU-contracted companies. Whether we’re gaining new work or maintaining existing jobs, contract awards like these cannot be taken for granted. Far from it, in fact. When the government entrusts SIU-contracted companies with their vessels, it absolutely reflects on the outstanding work of our rank-and-file members. This is a tremendous victory for our union and for Keystone, Interocean American Shipping and Ocean Shipholdings, and I congratulate all concerned. Volume 73, Number 3 March 2011 The SIU on line: www.seafarers.org The Seafarers LOG (ISSN 1086-4636) is published monthly by the Seafarers International Union; Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU, AFLCIO; 5201 Auth Way; Camp Springs, MD 20746. Telephone (301) 899-0675. Periodicals postage paid at Southern Maryland 20790-9998. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to the Seafarers LOG, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. Communications Director, Jordan Biscardo; Managing Editor/Production, Jim Guthrie; Assistant Editor, Paddy Lehane; Photographer, Mike Hickey; Administrative Support, Misty Dobry. Copyright © 2011 Seafarers International Union, AGLIWD. All Rights Reserved. The Seafarers International Union engaged an environmentally friendly printer for the production of this newspaper. 2 Seafarers LOG Seafarers-crewed fast sealift ships including the Pollux (above) are part of the Ready Reserve Force. SIU Retains Jobs Aboard SL-7s, Telemetry Ships The much-anticipated award of operating agreements covering eight fast sealift ships and two telemetry vessels happened in mid-February, and SIU-contracted companies were selected to operate all 10 ships. Turnover on the U.S. Maritime Administration’s (MarAd) fast sealift ships, also known as SL-7s, is scheduled for March 1. Those vessels are the Regulus, Pollux, Denebola, Antares, Altair, Bellatrix, Algol and Capella. The telemetry ships – the Pacific Collector and Pacific Tracker – remain with their old operator, Interocean American Shipping (IAS). IAS also will operate the Altair and Bellatrix, while Ocean Shipholdings, Inc. will operate the Algol and Capella. Keystone Shipping will operate the Regulus, Pollux, Denebola and Antares. The respective contracts are for one year, but they have a series of options that would extend the term to five years. U.S. Secretary of Transportation Ray LaHood said the awards “will help make sure these important ships are manned with skilled mariners and are ready when our nation calls.” SIU Vice President Contracts George Tricker stated, “We are thrilled by the announcement. Any time you have job security for the next five years, it’s a bonus. Our membership values these jobs and is eager to continue manning these vessels to the highest standard.” Company officials were no less enthused. Capt. Louis Cavaliere (USN-Ret.), Keystone’s general manage for government contracts, said his organization “is delighted to inherit the operation of the SL7s, which have a very unique and distinguished history. We are further delighted to be able to work these ships which are so close to our home office in Philadelphia. And finally, we look forward with our labor partners to ensure a smooth transition and a successful operation of these vessels.” Bob Rogers, vice president of human resources at IAS, said his company “is gratified to be able to continue our relationship with MarAd aboard the Tracker, Collector, Altair and Bellatrix. Our ability to perform to the high standards demanded by MarAd has only been made possible through the dedication of the reduced operating status and full operating status SIU crews and AMO officers we have been so fortunate to employ. The crews aboard our current MarAd vessels – Petersburg and Cornhusker, Gopher and Flickertail State – plus the personnel we’ve had on the Tracker and Collector under General Agency can only be described as excellent. This award is a credit to IAS, AMO and SIU, and we appreciate the teamwork we have been able to achieve.” Jim McGregor, president and chief operating officer at Ocean Shipholdings, stated, “We are really pleased, appreciative and excited that MarAd has awarded us the small-business set aside on the two ships in Alameda, Calif., which are critical mission ships for national defense. We as a ship operator and you as a union are working together for our mutual benefit and for the benefit of the United States Merchant Marine.” The fast sealift ships officially became part of MarAd’s Ready Reserve Force (RRF) in October 2008, although custody of the vessels had been transferred from the U.S. Navy’s Military Sealift Command a year earlier. They were built as containerships but have been converted and given roll-on/roll-off features, cranes and a series of decks connected by ramps so that vehicles can be driven in and out of storage areas for rapid loading and unloading. According to MarAd, fast sealift ships “are currently the fastest cargo ships in the world, capable of speeds in excess of 30 knots. The ships are capable of sailing from the U.S. East Coast to Europe in just six days and to the Persian Gulf via the Suez Canal in only 18 days, thus ensuring rapid delivery of military equipment in any crisis. When combined, all eight fast sealift ships are able to transport nearly all the equipment needed to outfit a full mechanized division of the U.S. Army.” The vessels have been utilized during Operations Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom, and they were a major asset during the Persian Gulf War. Some helped play a key early role in helping provide relief after Hurricane Katrina. Adm. Allen Reiterates Jones Act Did Not Hinder BP Oil Cleanup Retired U.S. Coast Guard Adm. Thad Allen, the national incident commander who led the BP cleanup effort, recently told the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee the Jones Act did not prevent foreign vessels from participating in the Deepwater Horizon oil spill cleanup in the Gulf of Mexico. “There was a misperception that the Jones Act impeded the use of foreign vessels for Deepwater Horizon response operations,” said Adm. Allen on Feb. 11. “In reality, the Jones Act had no impact on response operations. As national incident commander, I provided specific guidance to ensure accelerated process of requests for Jones Act waivers.” Adm. Allen said that there were no Jones Act waiver denials over the course of the recovery effort. “Any decision not to use a foreign flag vessel during the response was based upon an operational decision, not any limitations imposed by the Jones Act.” His testimony reconfirmed what he said during efforts to recover the oil that was leaking into the Gulf. On July 6, 2010, Allen declared that “at no time” had the Jones Act inhibited the cleanup effort. His remarks before the committee were given just one month after a report from the non-partisan National Commission on the BP Deepwater Horizon Oil Spill and Offshore Drilling confirmed the Jones Act did not prevent foreign vessels from assisting with the cleanup. Additionally, during the hearing, U.S. Rep. Jeff Landry (R-La.) asked Adm. Allen if “the waiver provisions of the Jones Act provide sufficient flexibility during emergencies.” Allen’s response was concise: “Yes they do.” The Jones Act is a longstanding U.S. maritime law that protects national and economic security. It requires that goods moving between domestic ports be carried on vessels that are crewed, flagged, built and owned American. However, the Jones Act does not apply to skimming outside of three miles from shore, including near the well 50 miles from coastline, where the vast majority of skimming occurred after the Deepwater Horizon disaster. According to the Maritime Cabotage Task Force (MCTF), the domestic maritime industry “annually generates 500,000 jobs, contributes $100 billion in total economic output, adds $46 billion to the value of U.S. economic output, provides $29 billion in wages, and contributes $11 billion in taxes.” March 2011 �63364_Log_Mar2011_X:January 08 2/22/2011 8:05 AM Page 3 City Announces Expanded East River Ferry Operation New Service Bodes Well for NY Waterway Crews SIU members employed by NY Waterway will operate passenger ferries in an expanded East River service scheduled to launch this spring, the New York City Economic Development Corporation (NYCEDC) and City Council Speaker Christine C. Quinn announced in early February. The program reportedly comes with $9 million in guaranteed city funds and a pledge to continue the service for at least three years. The contract for this initiative was awarded to BillyBey Ferry Co., which utilizes Seafarers-contracted NY Waterway to operate 16 ferries, all under the NY Waterway logo. Employing more than 100 SIU members, NY Waterway is the nation’s largest private ferry operator and currently transports approximately 30,000 riders each day. SIU Vice President Atlantic Coast Joseph Soresi said that while it is too soon to know whether the new service will add jobs at NY Waterway, “at minimum it should mean a solid opportunity for steady work for the next three years, and that’s in addition to NY Waterway’s other routes. This is front-page news in New York and it is certainly good news for our union.” In the official announcement, the NYCEDC and City Council said, “Delivering on Mayor Bloomberg and Speaker Quinn’s vision for a sustainable city, the service will provide a new transportation option to residents of emerging Brooklyn and Queens neighborhoods, and will provide a link to some of the city’s most exciting recreation destinations.” The service will operate in both directions and make seven regular stops along the East River, with two additional summer stops. A free, dedicated bus service will be part of the new ferry system. The overall initiative is part of larger project titled Waterfront Vision and Enhancement Strategy, a citywide plan launched by Bloomberg and Quinn. “Many of New York City’s fastest growing neighborhoods, like Williamsburg and Long Island City, have tremendous waterfront access, and we want to capitalize on that by providing a new, sustainable transportation option for residents,” said Deputy Mayor for Economic Development Robert K. Steel. “By launching regular ferry service every 20 minutes, with stops in Midtown and Lower Manhattan and summertime stops at Brooklyn Bridge Park and Governors Island, we’ll create a transportation alternative while spurring private investment along the waterfront.” “Using the waterway to connect New Yorkers to business districts as well as recreation destinations will encourage economic activity and growth on both sides of the East River,” said NYCEDC President Pinsky. “This robust, regular service will be well-integrated with existing transportation options, providing a new sustainable and enjoyable way for commuters and tourists alike to get around the City.” SIU-crewed NY Waterway ferries transport tens of thousands of daily commuters, plus tour groups. The service will operate year-round from approximately 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. on weekdays and from about 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. on weekends. New ferry landings are under construction at the North Williamsburg and Greenpoint sites to complete the infrastructure needed for starting the service this spring. Latest Piracy Incidents Underscore Need for Effective Countermeasures Human Toll is Most Important, but Economic Impact Also Significant The execution of two seafarers on the Beluga Nomination by a gang of pirates has ignited outrage from the maritime community, leaving many wondering when more serious efforts to curb piracy will be implemented. On Jan. 22, following a failed rescue attempt by the Seychelles Coast Guard, two merchant mariners were executed by pirates, seemingly as punishment for the rescue attempt. Another drowned trying to escape. These horrific events are just the latest in an increasing level of violence off the coast of East Africa. News of torture and executions have now become commonplace in pirate attacks, raising the atmosphere of uncertainty in the maritime industry as well as creating a renewed sense of urgency for action. The SIU, in addition to a plethora of other maritime industry groups, is appalled by these acts of violence and continues to demand that all nations do their part to ensure the safety and security of merchant mariners from around the world. Attacks on merchant ships and the people that work aboard them have been increasing in frequency as well as in barbarity. With rising ransom demands, the stakes become notably higher. Acts of violence against innocent seafarers are forcing shipping companies to reevaluate trade routes, which has the potential to have serious economic implications for the world economy. In addition to the inexcusable loss of life, the crisis off the coast of Africa is resulting in the loss of billions of dollars annually. Besides ransom payments that can be in the millions, the growing threat of piracy creates additional expenses. New costs for security training and the hiring of private security contractors to protect workers and cargo add up to a considerable amount of money. Also, the loss of revenue for companies from shipping delays is a growing problem. The cost of piracy, according to a study by Oceans Beyond Piracy, is estimated to be between $7 billion to $12 billion per year. Mariners who are taken captive will sometimes be held for months while companies and pirates negotiate their release. While not only keeping these men and women from their families at home and putting their lives in danger, it also prevents them from being able to provide for their families. The trade routes through the Gulf of Aden, some of the most important in the world, have become so dangerous that maritime labor organizations are considering a boycott of the designated high-risk area and shipping companies recently announced they In this file photo taken in the Gulf of Aden, members of a U.S. Coast Guard law enforce- are considering reroutment detachment and a visit, board, search and seizure team head back to the guided ing their ships in protest. missile destroyer USS Farragut after disabling a suspected pirate skiff in the Indian The effect of a boycott Ocean. The Farragut is deployed as part of a multinational task force established to conon these trade routes duct anti-piracy operations. (U.S. Navy photo by Petty Officer 1st Class Cassandra could have a major Thompson) March 2011 “We want to thank New York City for giving us the opportunity to provide East River commuters with the same unparalleled level of safety, reliability and convenience we have established for Hudson River commuters,” said BillyBey Ferry Company co-owner and CEO Paul Goodman. impact on global trade. For shipping companies and their workers, however, this may be the only logical step until more effective efforts are made to curb piracy. While shipping companies and maritime labor organizations like the SIU have called attention to the peril facing seafarers and have been responsible for orchestrating Efthimios E. Mitropoulos some major IMO Secretary-General improvements in security for mariners, the fact remains that there is a lot of work left to be done. In that vein, the International Maritime Organization (IMO), a specialized United Nations agency with 168 member states, has announced its plans to help curb piracy in Somalia. The IMO recently called on the international community to increase cooperation among governments and military forces and to make a more concerted effort to stabilize Somalia. IMO Secretary-General Efthimios E. Mitropoulos said, “Piracy and kidnapping have blighted the maritime community for too long and it is seafarers who bear the brunt.” He added, “We believe that we can use the experience gained and the successes achieved in reducing piracy elsewhere to good effect in the current arena as well, but to do so requires a well orchestrated response.” Proposed efforts include information-sharing between navies and governments, cooperation between UN-led maritime groups, and promotion of and funding for programs that will increase the political and economic stability in Somalia, including programs that will offer viable economic alternatives to piracy. While campaigns like this have improved the situation for mariners, implementing and funding such efforts must be prioritized by all nations with an interest in secure trade routes and safe workers, the IMO asserted. Moreover, UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon, in remarks before the IMO, reminded the world of the bottom line: Seafarers deserve to be able to work without fear of violence. “Let us never forget the detrimental impact of piracy on the innocent seafarers themselves – the men and women who face all manner of hardship in transporting the world’s precious cargo,” he said. “They are on the frontlines of this battle. Their welfare and safety must also be at the forefront of our concerns.” Seafarers LOG 3 �63364_Log_Mar2011_X:January 08 2/22/2011 8:05 AM Page 4 ‘Undercover Boss’ Finds ‘Really Great Crew’ SIU members recently were featured on the CBS television show “Undercover Boss” as Norwegian Cruise Lines (NCL) President and CEO Kevin Sheehan went “undercover” as a member of the deck department aboard the union-contracted Pride of America. The union crew made a very positive impression on Sheehan, who took over as head of the company in 2008. For the TV show, Sheehan worked as a deck repairman on the Pride of America while the ship was docked in Hawaii. The show aired in January. Sheehan took part in various maintenance tasks under the guidance of SIU member AB John Nersten. Nersten showed Sheehan the ropes and gave him an inside look at life working for NCL, as well as the personal joys and hardships associated with working at sea. “It’s heartwarming to see that we have crew members who are here because they love to be here,” Sheehan said while on board the Pride of America. “You get a great appreciation for what John and the 27 other people on his team do every single day to protect the ship and keep it in first-class condition. That makes you feel very good and it’s a confirmation that we’ve got a really great crew.” Nersten proved a worthy ambassador for workers aboard the Pride of America as well as for SIU members in general. Nersten, from Brooklyn, N.Y., was raised in a seafaring family. His maternal grandfather worked aboard fuel barges on the Hudson River and his great uncle served as a merchant mariner during World War II. After retiring from a telecommunications company in 2005, Nersten jumped at the opportunity to follow his dreams and become a seafarer. “I knew that I wanted to be a merchant mariner,” he said. “I was in school for BST (basic safety training) the week after I retired.” For Nersten, sailing with the SIU has given him wonderful experiences and memories. “I love that I get to visit new places,” said Nersten. “I love the adventure, the unknown.” While Sheehan’s efforts on the job didn’t make a particularly good impression on Nersten, Nersten and the other workers that Sheehan interacted with seem to have made a positive impact on him. Following his undercover work, Sheehan made some significant changes to the way the company operated, including adjustments in amenities aboard some of the ships. In addition to these changes geared towards customer satisfaction, Sheehan also made some big strides in an effort to improve quality of life for workers aboard the ships. Sheehan announced that the company would add $100,000 to the crew enrichment program. That program is set up to provide entertainment and activities, such as DVDs and parties, as well as other comforts. In addition, Sheehan made a $10,000 charitable donation in Nersten’s name and flew him The SIU-crewed Pride of America is pictured at the Na Pali Coast. and his family out to New York to visit relatives. Not only that, but Sheehan also sent Nersten, his wife, and his newborn daughter out on a seven-day cruise. Nersten is continuing to aim high and credits the opportunities awarded to all Seafarers by the SIU to be major components in his success. “What I like best about the SIU is that they give you an opportunity to advance,” Nersten said. “You control your own destiny, but they help with free schooling.” Nersten plans on attending an upgrading Rep. Miller Named Great Lakes Legislator of the Year An unwavering commitment to ending the dredging crisis on the Great Lakes has earned U.S. Rep. Candice Miller (R-Mich.) an award as 2011 Great Lakes Legislator of the Year from the largest labor/management coalition representing workers and industries dependent on shipping on America’s fourth sea coast. Rep. Miller, who represents Michigan’s 10th District in the House of Representatives, formally received the award from Great Lakes Maritime Task Force (GLMTF) in Washington, D.C. on Feb. 9. SIU Vice President Great Lakes Tom Orzechowski presented the award. “Congresswoman Miller has twice cosponsored legislation that requires the government to take the tax dollars it collects for dredging and spend the full amount on keeping our nation’s waterways open to commerce,” said John D. Baker, president of the task force, to which the SIU is affiliated. “The Harbor Maintenance Trust Fund has a surplus of $5.65 billion because the government only spends about $750 million a year on dredging deep-draft ports and waterways. As a result, vessels working the Great Lakes often forfeit as much as 10 percent of their carrying capacity each trip.” Baker, who is also president emeritus of the International Longshoremen’s Association’s Great Lakes District Council, stressed that Rep. Miller’s co-sponsoring of H.R. 104 is good for both her district and Michigan. “When a ship delivers a full load of low-sulfur coal to the Belle River power plant, the cargo can total 70,000 tons or more, and the electricity produced there powers many industries. Unfortunately, because of the dredging crisis, the top cargo in 2010 was 66,000 tons. H.R. 104 will provide the funds the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers needs to restore the Great Lakes Navigation System to functional dimensions,” he said. The dredging issue is but one of Rep. Miller’s ties to the Great Lakes. She sits on two of the key maritime committees – Homeland Security and Transportation and Infrastructure – and is chairwoman of Homeland Security’s subcommittee on Border and Maritime Security. Border security is especially important to the Congresswoman as her district includes the Blue Water Bridge which spans the St. Clair River and is the second-busiest northern border crossing. Her maritime roots run deep. Her family owned a marina and she is an accom- 4 Seafarers LOG plished sailor. Her district in the “Thumb” area includes considerable shoreline, as well as numerous bays, lakes and rivers, not to mention a several docks that receive coal and limestone from U.S. and Canadian-flag lakers. Rep. Miller’s support for adequate U.S. Coast Guard icebreaking resources was another factor in her selection as Great Lakes Legislator of the Year. “The Detroit and St. Clair rivers are major arteries in the system, but without sufficient icebreaking resources, can become clogged with windblown ice,” said Gene Caldwell, first vice president of the GLMTF. “Congresswoman Miller knows those cargos that move in ice can mean the difference between a steel mill or power plant maintaining employment during the winter closure.” Caldwell, who is also vice president and U.S. Rep. Candice Miller (R-Mich.) general manager of Bay Shipbuilding Company, noted that although many U.S.flag Great Lakes freighters have icestrengthened bows, even the most powerful vessels can become beset in ice. “U.S.-flag lakers would not be able to move 15 million tons of cargo or more during the ice season without adequate U.S. and Canadian Coast Guard icebreakers,” Caldwell pointed out. Rep. Miller also backs construction of a second Poe-sized Lock at Sault Ste. Marie, Mich. “The Soo Locks are the sin- gle point of failure that could bring waterborne commerce on the fourth sea coast to a virtual standstill,” said Don Cree, second vice president of the GLMTF. “A closure of the Poe Lock would idle 70 percent of U.S.-flag carrying capacity,” added Cree, who also serves as Great Lakes special assistant to the national president of the Seafarers-affiliated American Maritime Officers. “Congresswoman Miller finds this risk intolerable and has pledged her support for efforts to twin the Poe Lock.” The task force’s award also recognizes Rep. Miller’s support for a U.S. maritime policy that creates and sustains jobs and promotes national security. “For nearly 200 years America has required that domestic waterborne commerce be conducted in vessels that are U.S.owned, U.S.-built, and U.S.-crewed,” said James H.I. Weakley, third vice president of the GLMTF. “The U.S.-flag Great Lakes fleet employs more than 1,600 men and women and annually provides $125 million in wages and benefits. The Great Lakes shipyards that build and maintain these vessels have more than 1,200 employees. America is more secure because domestic waterborne commerce is still an American industry.” Previous recipients from the Michigan delegation are Senators Carl Levin (D), Debbie A. Stabenow (D) and Spencer Abraham (R), and Representatives Dave Camp (R), Vernon Ehlers (R), Bart Stupak (D), and Dave Bonior (D). Founded in 1992, the Great Lakes Maritime Task Force promotes domestic and international shipping on the Great Lakes. With 82 members, it is the largest coalition to ever speak for the Great Lakes shipping community and draws its membership from both labor and management representing U.S.-flag vessel operators, shipboard and longshore unions, port authorities, cargo shippers, terminal operators, shipyards and other Great Lakes interests. The GLMTF’s goals include restoring adequate funding for dredging of Great Lakes deep-draft ports and waterways; construction of a second Poe-sized lock at Sault Ste. Marie, Mich.; supporting the Jones Act and other U.S. maritime cabotage laws and regulations; maximizing the Lakes overseas trade; and opposing exports of and/or increased diversions of Great Lakes water. program at the Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md., sometime this year, his first time at the SIU-affiliated school. “I want to become a mate and they have opened the door for me to achieve it,” said Nersten. The Pride of America is one of the highest customer-rated ships in the Norwegian Cruise Line fleet, in addition to being one of the most profitable. The vessel is staffed by more than 800 members of the SIU and its affiliated Seafarers Entertainment and Allied Trades union (SEATU). NOTICE Steward Department Members Now Must Have U.S. Coast Guard Screening For Food Handler Endorsement Editor’s note: The following notice from SIU Medical Director Dr. Kenneth B. Miller was sent to all SIU halls on Feb. 8. A related memo was sent to each of the union’s contracted clinics. The instructions are aimed at port personnel rather than rankand-file SIU members, but the information is relevant to Seafarers. All seafarers working in the steward department are required to have the food handler endorsement, “Steward Department (F.H.),” on their merchant mariner credentials (MMC). In the past, this was an automatic endorsement by the U.S. Coast Guard. In order for the U.S. Coast Guard to provide the food handler endorsement on an initial (e.g. Ordinary Seaman, Wiper, Steward Department) or renewed MMC, a medical provider must provide a statement attesting that the applicant is “free of communicable diseases.” Only those seafarers who request to have the “Steward Department (F.H.)” endorsement and who provide the required statement will receive the “Steward Department (F.H.)” endorsement on their MMCs. Effective 2/14/11, the following will be available at all SHBP contracted clinics. For seafarers renewing their MMC with an entry rating requiring the steward department (F.H.) endorsement, a revised Merchant Mariner Credential Medical Evaluation Report 719K will be completed which includes a statement on page 9 attesting to the seafarer being free of communicable diseases. For seafarers with an entry rating who failed to obtain a food handler endorsement on their MMC and require one, please issue an (A601) USCG STEWARD DEPT. FOOD HANDLER CERTIFICATION clinic receipt to obtain a food handler medical clearance to submit to the USCG. The fee for this receipt is $10.00. In addition, all U.S. Coast Guard examinations performed by the SHBP contracted clinics will utilize the Merchant Mariner Credential Medical Evaluation Report 719K only and not the 719K-E. March 2011 �63364_Log_Mar2011:January 08 2/18/2011 8:04 AM Page 5 Federation President: Build Up Middle Class AFL-CIO President Richard Trumka recently called for the country to bolster its middle class and to make appropriate choices for the overall good of the nation. The federation leader, a longtime ally of the SIU, addressed the National Press Club in Washington, D.C., on Jan. 19. He touched on many challenges facing the U.S. and specifically pointed out the increasing, unwarranted attacks on working people from politicians and business leaders alike. He also emphasized that any discussion about America’s future “begins and ends concretely with the question of jobs.” “The conventional wisdom in Washington and in statehouses around the nation is that we cannot afford to be the country we want to be. That could not be more wrong,” Trumka said. “We can and should be building up the American middle class, not tearing it down. We should act like the wealthy, compassionate, imaginative country we are, not try to turn ourselves into a third-rate, impoverished ‘has-been.’ The labor movement hasn’t given up on America and we don’t expect our leaders to either.” The bulk of the speech centered on the idea of choice. The United States is at a crucial juncture where the nation as a whole must overcome current hardships or risk irreparable harm, Trumka said. “We are a nation that still has choices,” Trumka declared. “We don’t need to settle for stagnation and ever-spiraling inequality. We don’t need to hunker down, dial back our expectations and surrender our children’s hope for a great education, our parents’ right to a comfortable retirement, our own health and economic security, our nation’s aspiration to make things again or our human right to advance our situation by forming a union if we want one. All these things are within the reach of this great country.” The adversity for the country, and particularly its working people, has been extensive throughout the last decade, he said. However, Trumka believes that problems shouldn’t be solved by putting them on the backs of workers. Other countries serve as models for a way to get things back on track without hurting employees, he stated. “We have just been through one lost decade, when America’s standard of living fell, when our wealth shrank, when millions lost their homes, when young people could not find work,” said Trumka. “America cannot afford another lost decade. China is not having a lost decade. Germany is not having a lost decade. Because those countries have acted decisively on jobs and public investment, their economies are prosperous. Germany, with its strong unions, robust public sector, good wages and strong social protection, has an unemployment rate half ours. “What should be crystal clear right now is that the United States is falling behind in the global economy and not because we lack the skills, the resources, the innovative drive or the entrepreneurial spirit to succeed,” he continued. “No, we are falling behind because we are govern- Sec. Solis Sees Union Advantage BLS Issues Annual Report on Membership U.S. Secretary of Labor Hilda L. Solis recently pointed out some of the benefits of union representation. In a Jan. 21 statement issued following the release of the Bureau of Labor Statistics’ annual report on union membership, Solis pointed out, “The data shows the median usual weekly earnings of full-time wage and salary union members were $917 per week, compared to $717 for workers not represented by unions. For Latinos, the wage disparity is even greater with union members earning an average of $771 compared to $512 for workers not represented by unions, a difference of 33.6 percent. “When coupled with existing data showing that union members have access to better health care, retirement and leave benefits, today’s numbers make it clear that union jobs are not only good jobs, they are central to restoring our middle class.” She added, “As workers across the country continue to face lower wages and difficulty finding work due to the recent recession, these numbers demonstrate the pressing need to provide workers with a voice in the workplace and protect their right to organize and bargain collectively.” Not surprisingly in light of the national unemployment rate, the BLS report indicated that in 2010, the unionization rate of employed wage and salary workers was 11.9 percent, down from 12.3 percent in 2009. Among private-sector employees, the rate dropped to 6.9 percent from 7.2 percent in 2009. According to the report, in 2010, 7.6 million public sector employees belonged to a union, compared with 7.1 million union workers in the private sector. Among states, New York had the highest union membership rate (24.2 percent) and North Carolina had the lowest rate (3.2 percent). The agency also reported that “within the public sector, local government workers had the highest union membership March 2011 U.S. Secretary of Labor Hilda L. Solis rate, 42.3 percent. This group includes workers in heavily unionized occupations, such as teachers, police officers, and fire fighters. Private-sector industries with high unionization rates included transportation and utilities (21.8 percent), telecommunications (15.8 percent), and construction (13.1 percent).” The report continued, “Among occupational groups, education, training, and library occupations (37.1 percent) and protective service occupations (34.1 percent) had the highest unionization rates in 2010. Sales and related occupations (3.2 percent) and farming, fishing, and forestry occupations (3.4 percent) had the lowest unionization rates.” Additionally, the union membership rate was higher for men (12.6 percent) than for women (11.1 percent) in 2010. The gap between their rates has narrowed considerably since 1983, when the rate for men was about 10 percentage points higher than the rate for women. ing from fear, not from confidence. And we have let our transnational business titans convince our politicians that our national strength lies in their profits, not our jobs.” Additionally, instead of making positive strides, some politicians are pursuing dangerous and counterproductive measures, according to Trumka. “Too many of our politicians are doing the opposite of what works: destroying our public institutions, crushing working people’s rights and living standards, and failing to invest in education,” Trumka stated. “We know this model, and we know where it leads: catastrophe. This misguided and shortsighted approach is not just a Washington problem. In state capital after state capital, politicians elected to take on the jobs crisis are instead attacking the very idea of the American middle class, the idea that in America, economic security—health care, a real pension, a wage that can pay for college— is not something for a privileged few, but rather what all of us can earn in exchange for a hard day’s work.” Trumka made it clear that, in spite of these mounting challenges to the dignity of working people, America’s working families are still at the forefront for making the American dream a reality, now and in the future. “In a globalized, high-tech world, when it often seems that change is the one constant in our lives, the real American dream is that if we work hard and do our part for each other, each of us can enjoy AFL-CIO President Richard Trumka the economic security that allows us to live our lives with dignity and have hope for our future and for our children’s future,” Trumka said. “This dream must be a reality in our time, and in our children’s and grandchildren’s time.” He added that Americans clearly want to work – especially with one in three U.S. households having someone unemployed in the past year – but “the biggest and wealthiest American companies are sitting on trillions of dollars in assets – not investing, not creating jobs, not taking risks.” U.S. Maritime Labor, Vessel Operators Urge Funding for Shipbuilding Program The SIU in late January joined with other maritime unions, American-flag vessel operators and other industry representatives in urging funding for the U.S. Maritime Administration’s shipbuilding loan guarantee program, known as Title XI. In a letter to U.S. Rep. C.W. Bill Young (R-Fla.) and U.S. Rep. Norm Dicks (D-Wash.), the unions, companies and others pointed out the “program warrants continued support even as Congress understandably reviews all accounts carefully. This is not a large, top down government program but a small program based on private sector initiative and applications. The program guarantees commercial loans for privately financed commercial ship construction and shipyard modernization – all in the United States. Demand for program guarantees has consistently exceeded available resources.” Rep. Young is chairman of the House Appropriations Committee’s Subcommittee on Defense; Rep. Dicks is the Subcommittee’s ranking member. Signing the letter were representatives from the SIU, American Maritime Officers; International Organization of Masters, Mates & Pilots; Marine Engineers’ Beneficial Association; Aker Philadelphia Shipyard; American Maritime Congress; American Maritime Officers Service; American Shipping Group; Central Gulf Lines, Inc.; Crowley Maritime Corporation; Horizon Lines, Inc.; Maritime Institute for Research and Industrial Development; Shipbuilders Council of America; Transportation Institute; and Waterman Steamship Corp. “Funding and implementation of the Title XI program will help grow the U.S. economy and create and maintain American jobs in the domes- tic shipbuilding and related service and supply industries, as well as aboard United States-flag commercial vessels,” the letter stated. “It will help maintain the nation’s defense shipbuilding base and an active U.S.-flag merchant marine, which is essential to U.S. defense sealift requirements. The program has created and maintained tens of thousands of well-paying seagoing and shoreside jobs, and helped to ensure that an adequate pool of vessels and mariners and a shipyard industrial base, including associated supply industries, is available to meet U.S. economic, homeland and national sealift needs. “The program also provides a strong return for the government, as each Title XI dollar leverages 15-20 dollars of private investment. Moreover, the resulting overall economic activity has been estimated to be several times the shipyard output.” Finally, the letter indicated that sporadic funding for Title XI “makes it difficult to develop even short-term plans, much less multi-year strategies, and inhibits critical economic activity in the maritime sector. On the other hand, a consistently funded program will help grow the maritime industry and the economy as shipowners and shipyards invest in their enterprises.” According to the AFL-CIO Maritime Trades Department, since funding for the program was revived under the Defense Reconversion Act of 1993, “it has helped stabilize America’s vitally important domestic shipbuilding industry. Thousands of jobs have been saved or created; millions of dollars have been generated at the state, local and federal levels. Hundreds of vessels have been built. A viable pool of skilled civilian mariners has been maintained. America’s strategic capability has been enhanced.” Seafarers LOG 5 �63364_Log_Mar2011:January 08 2/18/2011 8:05 AM Page 6 OMU Jeff Bull, Junior Engineer Willie Lupton and Jeff’s son (facing away from camera) GUDE William Jackson, AB Clyde Sundberg, AB James Turnbull Chief Storekeeper Arica Shaw and guests Kishea and John S ea f ar e r s C el eb r a t e H o li d ay s in N or f o lk Approximately 80 Seafarers, retirees, family members and guests recently converged for the annual holiday celebration at the SIU hall in Norfolk, Va. The Dec. 21 gathering also featured recog- nition for longtime maintenance man Herman “Chubby” Hall, who retired after 25 years on the job. Port Agent Georg Kenny submitted the photos on this page. More photos on Page 7 Mrs. Sharon Brown, QEE Wendell Brown, SIU VP Gov’t Services Kermett Mangram SA Teresa Coley, Chief Cook William Belcher, AB Mike Warren, Retired BREC Bobby Riddick Retiree Irvin Crutchlow SIU Gov’t Services Representative Maurice Cokes, newly retired maintenance man Herman “Chubby” Hall, Hall’s daughter Leona and niece Catherine Daughter Jane Farrell and Chief Cook Suree Farrell 6 Seafarers LOG Mrs. Jill Lindsay, BREC Robert “Blackie” Lindsay AB Mike Sykes Oiler Howard Vick FOWT Jonathan Tucker, SA Gladys Sutton Guest Chandra Spruil, Oiler Tyesha Boyd March 2011 �63364_Log_Mar2011:January 08 2/18/2011 8:05 AM Page 7 More Holiday Celebration Photos from Port of Norfolk, Va. AB Clay Walker, Chief Cook Dawn Johnson, Oiler Brandy Baker Days, GUDE Demetrius Madison NMU retirees Melvin McCray, Mack Young and Melvin Hite, GUDE Juan Steward Union Plus Auto Insurance Puts Union Members In Driver’s Seat Editor’s note: This article was written and distributed by Union Plus. Every parent worries when their teenager gets behind the wheel. Many say they can’t sleep until they hear their teenager’s car in the driveway and know their child is safe and sound. Once offered in public schools at an affordable price, beginner’s driver education courses now routinely cost several hundred dollars. Thanks to the Drivers Training Grants, union members who have Union Plus Auto Insurance are eligible to receive grants of up to $250 for driver’s education courses. Family Saves Hundreds without Sacrificing Safety By switching to Union Plus Auto Insurance, union member Carmel Sinopoli says her family saved $440 on their auto insurance premium, while bolstering their coverage. Carmel also received a $250 grant to put towards her daughter’s drivers education course. “As a parent, I didn’t want to scrimp on driver’s education. You tend to have your stomach in your throat when your child starts to drive, so you really want to make sure they are well prepared to go out on the roads. The courses can be expensive, but it’s nice to know that Union Plus is helping union families pick up the costs,” says Carmel. In addition to beginner’s driver education, Union Plus Driver Training Grants are also available for Defensive Driving and “55 Alive” courses. Defensive driving classes can make driver’s eligible for up to a 10 percent savings on auto insurance premiums, while participation in “55 Alive” instruction can result in savings of up to 20 percent for auto insurance premiums. “55 Alive,” developed by the National Safety Council and the American Association of Retired Persons (AARP), is designed to further educate drivers who are 55 years of age and older. Union Plus Auto Insurance, specifically designed with union families in mind, offers savings without sacrificing quality coverage; premium deferment during prolonged strikes or lockouts (of up to two months); free, online auto insurance quotes; and 24 hour roadside assistance. For more information on Union Plus Auto Insurance and Drivers Training Grants, please visit UnionPlus.org/AutoInsurance or call 1-800-294-9496. March 2011 Seafarers LOG 7 �63364_Log_Mar2011:January 08 2/18/2011 8:05 AM Page 8 The Ed Woods Story – A Teenager in World War II Editor’s note: This is the fifth installment in a series written by Edward T. Woods, a U.S. Merchant Marine veteran of World War II. Parts of the story also have been published in editions of the American Merchant Marine Veterans North Atlantic Chapter Newsletter. The previous Seafarers LOG entries were printed in the September, October and November 2010 issues and in the February 2011 edition. Among other activities, they described Woods’ time as a seaman recruit in Sheepshead Bay, N.Y., at age 16, as well as his first voyage, aboard the S/S Horseshoe in 1944. The installment from last month ended in early 1945, with Woods and his fellow mariners aboard the tanker S/S Brandy Station departing Manila Bay and returning to Subic Bay. Woods, 83, sailed in the engine and steward departments. While we were at anchor in Subic Bay, small native boats called bum boats would attempt to approach our ship hoping to sell us souvenirs and bootleg liquor. A line would be dropped down to the boat and the native would attach a basket to it containing his or her wares. We had been warned about native-made whiskey and heard it could cause blindness, etc. Nevertheless, there were those who tried it. They would mix it with lemonade powder and add water. It was real rotgut and a man had to be desperate for alcohol to drink it. The armed deck watch was ordered to keep all bum boats away from our ship and to shoot if necessary. The port authorities reported that some bum boats were in the employ of the Japanese and would attempt to attach explosives devices to the hulls of ally ships. There were crew members who claimed this was a ploy to keep us from trading with the natives. The majority of the crew, however, heeded the warning in fear of having the ship blown up. The first night following the warning, I heard a sailor on deck-watch calling out to a bum boat warning it to keep away. I took notice and saw that the boat kept coming closer. The watch then shouted that he would shoot if they came any nearer. I could see that the young sailor on watch did not want to shoot anybody unnecessarily but he would need to follow orders. It was obvious the natives in the boat did not understand his command and continued to approach our vessel as they had done for many years to any ship at anchor in the bay. I remembered that some older Filipinos understood Spanish and I shouted out the few Spanish words I knew at the time, telling them to stay away. Fortunately, for everyone, the natives grasped the meaning of my words and rowed off. Later, we were again ordered to Manila. We anchored in an assigned area and immediately our leading Navy petty officer obtained permission to go ashore in our motor launch to see if there was any mail for our ship. About ten of us were allowed to accompany him. The first thing we noticed as we landed was a huge amount of Japanese government-issued Philippine fiat peso paper money in various denominations strewn about. A bomb or a shell had hit a bank and had scattered the money throughout the city. I collected a few handfuls for souvenirs and later included it in my letters to home and to my brothers. I still have some in my coin and paper money collection. When I next heard from my brother Dennis, who was somewhere with the Marines in the Pacific area, he thanked me for the Japanese government-issued Philippine fiat peso and said he enjoyed showing them to his buddies and bragged about his kid brother being closer to Woods and other civilian mariners earned the Philippine Liberation Medal for their actions in World War II. 8 Seafarers LOG action with the enemy than he was. This was before he was posted to Okinawa and fought in the last major battle of World War II. Our crew was later awarded the Philippine Liberation Ribbon for our extended stay in the Islands and our contribution to its liberation. After the war, I was awarded a medal from the Philippine Ambassador in Washington, D.C., in addition to the ribbon. From there it was back to Balboa, Panama, for a short stay. We filled our cargo tanks and our open decks with assorted supplies. Our next trip across the Pacific was to the island of Manus in the Admiralty Islands. It had been an Australian possession and our captain was invited to go ashore for a small celebration of a flag exchange between the local Australian authorities and the American Armed Forces who had retaken the islands from the Japanese. We unloaded some aviation fuel into a U.S. Navy tanker and gave fuel oil to a number of destroyers. We carried the remaining oil and cargo north to Ulithi in the Caroline Islands. Due to U.S. Navy regulations, our tanker was not authorized to unload into U.S. Navy capital ships: battleships, cruisers or aircraft carriers. Instead, we would tie up to a Navy tanker that would act as an intermediary and transfer the oil to the bigger ship. A day out of Ulithi, a lookout was heard to cry, “Torpedo.” Those who heard him, rushed to the nearest outside deck and saw the projectile’s wake cross in the front of our bow. Seconds later a second one passed just aft of our stern. I did not get to see either of the two. I was told that our ship had just entered into a zigzag pattern and this maneuver obviously saved our ship and our lives. Sometimes torpedoes were fired very low in the water and were known to pass under the target ship. That would not have been our good fortune as tankers had over a 30-foot draft: the distance from the water line to the bottom of the keel. Extra lookouts, both Navy and merchant crew, were posted for the next few days. Few if any of the crew were able to get a good night’s sleep. All night long, off-duty sleepless crew members would be in the mess hall drinking coffee and talking about what they wanted to do when the war was over. It was on the return voyage to Panama that we heard that President Franklin D. Roosevelt had died and that Vice President Harry Truman had taken over the reins. The chief radio operator passed the news around. Most of the crew did not know that Harry Truman was the vice president or that he was the next in line in succession to the presidency. We had short-wave radios in each of our mess halls; however, the reception was only clear in or near a port. At times, a member of the crew would tune in to a distant station and we would hear the voice of BBC, the British Broadcasting Corporation. Usually we would hear a lot of static, rarely up-todate news. While we tried to decipher the transmission, we would guess as to what was said and play games with the garbled words. Someone would say, “I think he said, ‘The war is over.’ ” Others: “Hitler’s dead, Japan surrendered, all ships have been ordered back to the States,” etc. Anything to break the monotony. We returned to Panama and after a brief stay, left port with another split cargo of aviation gas and fuel oil. We were only at sea a few days when we heard about the atom bomb being dropped on Japan. Few if any of us realized or understood the significance of this new and powerful weapon. During the war, the media had constantly reported various bombing missions and always added to the report, “The most bombing ever. The worst damage to any city,” etc. To read a paper or listen to a radio broadcast at that time, one would think the war would have been or should have Ed and Jackie Woods are pictured on a cruise in 2006. been over in a few days. For that reason, we were skeptical about the news reports for the first few days after hearing of the “atomic bomb.” In retrospect, I don’t believe anyone aboard ship from the captain on down to the galley boy had ever heard of nuclear energy or the atomic theory. This last voyage across the Pacific took me to Okinawa where I learned that my brothers, Billy and Dennis, were on the island and I attempted to locate them. My ship anchored in Buckner Bay, newly named in honor of General Simon Bolivar Buckner, who had been in charge of the initial invasion and had been killed during the fighting. (General Buckner is acknowledged to have been the highest ranking officer killed by enemy fire in World War II.) Unfortunately, shortly after our arrival, a typhoon was predicted and my ship was ordered to leave the anchorage and ride out the storm at sea. Billy and Dennis received word of my mooring location and tried to get a ride out to my ship only to learn of the impending storm and that most of the ships had left port. When we returned four days later, the port was in ruins; the ships that did not have ballast and had not able to put to sea were washed up on the shore. I looked for the Navy Fleet Post Office in vain, but it too had been blown away. My chief mate, who was a former U.S. Navy captain, tried to help me locate my brothers, but he had no better luck than I did. While we were in Okinawa, the peace treaty was signed with Japan in Tokyo Bay on September 2, aboard the USS Missouri. We were able to hear the proceedings over the radio. I didn’t get to see Billy and Dennis until our family got together that Christmas in New York. My future brother-in-law, an army sergeant, Lenny Bernhardt was there and so was my cousin Eddie’s older brother Tommy, a Marine. It was a good feeling knowing we had come home from the war unscathed. My brothers told me that they had gone to Buckner Bay in Okinawa and tried to find my ship. Of course, my ship was out to sea by then preparing to ride out the typhoon in open water. When the typhoon hit the island, Dennis and his radio squad took refuge in a cave. Something in the cave caused Dennis to have an asthma attack. He lost consciousness and had to be rushed to a medical aid station where he was stabilized and flown to a larger medical facility on Guam. By Christmastime, when we finally got together, Dennis was a patient at the St. Albans Naval Hospital in Queens. Later, he was moved to the Half Moon Hotel in Coney Island. The hotel was being used as a convalescing station for ambulatory military patients. While staying there he had to do shore patrol duty Continued on Page 9 March 2011 �63364_Log_Mar2011:January 08 2/18/2011 8:05 AM Page 9 Ed Woods Story D i s p a t c h e r s ’ Re p o r t f or D e e p S e a Continued from Page 8 along the famous Coney Island boardwalk. For many years after, Dennis would enjoy telling stories of his encounters with drunken military personnel who celebrated being safely back home by carousing in and out of bars. He had to fire his sidearm into the air a number of times to stop a brawl, both on the boardwalk and in a bar. Dennis policed the area accompanied by an U.S. Navy SP (shore patrol) and a U.S. Army MP (military police). He said that he had come close to arresting a few troublemakers but was always able to calm them down. Everyone was just happy to be alive and back home. As a Christmas present, I escorted my mother downtown to have dinner and to see a movie at one of the luxurious midtown theaters. The Best Years of Our Lives had just opened to rave reviews at the Astor Theatre on Times Square. General admission cost $2, an enormous sum for a movie in 1945. My mother was completely against allowing me to spend $4 for us to see a movie. I had to convince her that I had looked forward during my time at sea to treating her to a night out when I got home, and that is what I wanted to do. It was a good movie and later, at the Hollywood Oscars, both the actors and the movie won Academy Awards. When we left the theater, Mom decided we should have Italian food, which we rarely had at home. There was a nearby Italian restaurant, and after a long wait in line, we enjoyed a spaghetti and veal cutlet dinner. In late 1945 and early 1946, you had to get used to waiting in lines. The military services were discharging millions of men back into civilian life every day. Trains and buses were packed with passengers; restaurants and taverns had more customers than they could serve and, best of all, everyone was in a good mood. Veterans were entitled to an allotment of $20 a week for 52 weeks. It was called the 5220 club by the vets who took advantage of the benefit. Its aim was to help them to adjust to civilian life. They were also given other major benefits under the GI Bill of Rights: low mortgage interest rates, paid school tuitions and costof-living benefits while attending school. When the GI Bill of Rights was first proposed, I expected to share in it. Before President Roosevelt died, he stated that he wanted the merchant mariners recognized for their contribution to the winning of the war. He died suddenly, a few months before the end of hostilities, and did not live to have his wish enacted into law. P e r so n al Former Wiper Fred Dantonio is looking for Kelly Wilbur who attended the maritime training school on West Baltimore Street in the 1960s. Fred may be reached via email at dantoniodentallab@yahoo.com April & May 2011 Membership Meetings Piney Point.............................................Monday: April 4, May 2 Algonac ....................................................Friday: April 8, May 6 Baltimore..............................................Thursday: April 7, May 5 Guam................................................Thursday: April 21, May 19 Honolulu ...............................................Friday: April 15, May 13 Houston..................................................Monday: April 11, May 9 Jacksonville.........................................Thursday: April 7, May 5 Joliet.................................................Thursday: April 14, May 12 Mobile............................................Wednesday: April 13, May 11 New Orleans.............................................Tuesday: April 12, May 10 New York................................................Tuesday: April 5, May 3 Norfolk.................................................Thursday: April 7, May 5 Oakland ...........................................Thursday: April 14, May 12 Philadelphia.......................................Wednesday: April 6, May 4 Port Everglades ................................Thursday: April 14, May 12 San Juan............................................... Thursday: April 7, May 5 St. Louis ................................................Friday: April 15, May 13 Tacoma..................................................Friday: April 22, May 20 Wilmington..............................................Monday: April 18, May 16 Each port’s meeting starts at 10:30 a.m. March 2011 January 16, 2011 – February 15, 2011 Port Total Registered All Groups A B C Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Seattle St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS 22 3 4 15 1 7 54 29 7 9 13 45 20 36 5 3 4 27 2 36 342 20 3 7 13 1 7 15 20 5 5 2 24 22 7 8 1 8 19 2 20 209 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Seattle St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS 7 0 4 14 1 8 19 19 2 4 7 15 9 12 2 2 1 11 1 7 145 7 1 7 3 0 1 6 7 5 1 2 6 21 9 4 3 3 15 1 20 122 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Seattle St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS 6 0 2 6 1 10 19 16 1 6 3 22 14 17 2 4 2 20 1 18 170 5 0 1 7 1 3 5 4 3 0 1 5 9 2 1 3 1 3 1 2 57 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Seattle St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS 1 0 0 0 0 4 4 1 1 2 1 3 0 3 0 0 0 2 0 6 28 22 2 1 5 4 9 14 19 1 3 5 39 13 14 3 2 1 13 4 11 185 GRAND TOTAL: 685 573 Total Shipped All Groups A B C Deck Department 2 0 1 0 0 4 2 3 7 2 20 6 0 4 0 0 4 2 3 33 8 3 23 19 1 1 2 1 9 1 2 9 4 2 37 14 2 11 12 1 25 6 0 6 2 5 1 0 1 3 4 3 22 12 0 2 1 2 27 13 32 240 118 Engine Department 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 3 3 1 5 3 0 0 0 1 6 3 1 11 6 0 8 14 0 0 0 0 4 3 0 1 2 2 12 3 1 6 11 1 3 4 0 0 3 0 1 0 0 1 2 0 8 8 0 2 0 0 10 9 7 81 74 Steward Department 0 0 1 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 6 4 1 1 2 0 7 1 0 11 5 0 15 4 1 0 0 0 4 0 0 5 0 0 16 5 0 5 4 1 17 0 0 2 2 0 4 2 0 2 0 0 11 5 0 4 0 1 21 1 4 132 37 Entry Department 20 0 0 1 0 1 4 0 2 6 0 5 2 0 1 5 1 4 6 3 6 8 2 5 1 0 0 4 0 2 1 0 0 4 4 15 21 0 6 3 2 7 3 0 1 22 0 0 0 2 0 7 5 4 0 0 1 7 6 5 125 25 65 168 478 294 Trip Reliefs Registered on Beach All Groups A B C 0 1 0 1 1 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 3 0 0 4 1 2 0 0 14 0 2 3 8 0 2 15 11 0 4 4 12 5 13 3 0 3 15 0 7 107 40 3 6 34 3 17 97 48 9 15 22 76 30 46 10 2 11 54 5 55 583 26 2 12 31 7 12 30 37 8 18 6 38 38 14 11 3 14 35 5 50 397 4 0 6 3 1 2 5 6 2 2 3 9 7 3 2 2 4 3 0 9 73 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 3 0 0 1 4 0 1 4 7 0 1 0 4 0 6 1 0 1 11 1 5 47 12 0 6 22 2 12 30 35 3 12 16 29 14 17 4 2 5 25 0 9 255 12 1 8 12 2 6 16 20 6 5 3 17 29 19 5 6 10 17 3 33 230 2 1 0 0 0 1 2 2 1 0 0 11 1 1 0 0 0 0 0 1 23 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 2 1 0 0 0 0 1 6 0 0 0 5 0 1 5 6 0 0 4 8 0 6 0 0 0 2 0 4 41 8 0 5 14 4 19 31 31 2 8 9 32 24 33 5 4 4 29 0 34 296 7 0 2 7 1 4 6 9 6 3 4 7 18 8 2 3 1 6 2 2 98 1 0 0 1 2 2 0 0 1 0 0 0 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 10 0 0 0 1 0 2 1 1 0 0 1 2 8 3 0 24 0 3 0 2 48 0 0 1 1 1 0 3 1 0 0 0 1 3 1 0 1 1 1 0 4 19 3 0 0 0 0 3 10 1 2 2 2 15 0 11 0 0 0 5 0 15 69 26 2 7 10 4 12 26 40 2 8 9 74 32 25 4 4 2 23 4 50 364 31 2 5 10 2 6 7 20 1 5 6 22 45 5 7 5 0 10 0 34 223 71 214 1,203 1,089 329 Seafarers LOG 9 �63364_Log_Mar2011_X:January 08 2/22/2011 8:05 AM Page 10 Union-Crewed Vessels Assist in Major Exercise A pair of SIU-crewed prepositioning vessels belonging to the U.S. Navy’s Military Sealift Command (MSC), the 1st Lt. Jack Lummus and the 1st Lt. Harry L. Martin, in February participated in Cobra Gold, a major multinational military exercise in the Kingdom of Thailand. An international joint-service undertaking, Cobra Gold focuses on maintaining and improving military-to-military relationships among U.S. and allied forces operating in Southeast Asia. This year marks the 30th consecutive year that the United States has taken part in the event. According to MSC, Cobra Gold’s roots can be traced back to 1965 and Operation Team Work submarine operations, underwater demolition team operations and mine warfare. The initial Cobra Gold also featured a Thai-U.S. Marine Corps amphibious operation as these key allies during the Vietnam con- flict recognized the importance of military coordination. During this year’s exercise, military members and Seafarers aboard both vessels off-loaded U.S. Marine Combat equipment and containerized supplies in support of units from the Okinawabased 3rd Maritime Expeditionary Force which were operating ashore. These materials were stored aboard an at-sea cargo staging platform which was assembled in early December. The components used to construct this platform were transported to the site aboard the Lummus and Martin. In preparation for Cobra Gold, the two vessels and personnel aboard each in January participated in Freedom Banner. Essentially, this was a dry run exercise in which all concerned rehearsed for the real time shuttle of equipment and delivery of supplies during Cobra Gold. The Lummus and Martin, operated by SIU-contracted American Overseas Marine and Patriot respectively, are two of 15 container and roll-on/roll-off vessels in MSC’s 16-ship Maritime Prepositioning Force. Collectively, these platforms strategically position combat cargo at sea, enabling rapid delivery ashore to Marines, who are flown into a theater of operations. Exercises like Cobra Gold and Freedom Banner allow shipboard personnel and the units they support to work together and sharpen their skills necessary for crisis responses during wartime and other contingencies. Months of preparation precede the exercises in order to maximize the training benefit they offer. MSC operates approximately 110 noncombatant, civilian-crewed ships that replenish U.S. Navy ships, conduct specialized mission, strategically preposition combat cargo at sea around the world and move military cargo and supplies used by deployed U.S. forces and coalition partners. Combat equipment is offloaded by sailors and Marines from the 1st. Lt. Jack Lummus onto a causeway ferry. The service members were performing a maritime prepositioning force offload during exercise Freedom Banner in preparation for Cobra Gold. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Pfc. Nathaniel Henry) Navy cargo handlers operate the shipboard crane aboard the Lummus to lift an Improved Navy Lighterage System (INLS) power module into the water. The INLS is a floating system designed to offload combat equipment and supplies where conventional port facilities may be damaged, inadequate or nonexistent. (U.S. Navy Photo) The jumbo stern ramp of the 1st Lt. Harry L. Martin touches down on a roll-on/roll-off discharge facility during Cobra Gold. (Photo by Rick Caldwell) The stern ramp of the Lummus is lowered to the roll-on/roll-off discharge facility (RRDF). During Cobra Gold, this maneuver provided instream offload capability for equipment and supplies. (U.S. Navy Photo) 10 Seafarers LOG March 2011 �63364_Log_Mar2011:January 08 2/18/2011 8:05 AM Page 11 MV Freedom Seafarers Support Our Troops Chief Cook Pamela Wilson submitted these photos taken during a 2010 voyage aboard the SIU-crewed car carrier Freedom. Most of the images were taken while the vessel was in Singapore. The Freedom is operated by American Roll-On/Roll-Off Carrier and is part of the U.S. Maritime Security Program (MSP) fleet. As pre- viously reported, the MSP in early January was extended by 10 years (through 2025) via its inclusion in the Ike Skelton National Defense Authorization Act. The program helps maintain a pool of reliable, U.S. citizen mariners and militarily useful, privately owned American-flag ships made available to the Defense Department as needed. AB Derrick Lott and Chief Cook Henry Richardson AB Derrick Lott Chief Cook Pamela Wilson March 2011 Seafarers LOG 11 �63364_Log_Mar2011_X:January 08 2/22/2011 8:05 AM Page 12 S e a f a r e r s I n t er n a t i o n a l U n i o n D i r e ct o r y Michael Sacco, President Augustin Tellez, Executive Vice President David Heindel, Secretary-Treasurer George Tricker, Vice President Contracts Tom Orzechowski, Vice President Lakes and Inland Waters Dean Corgey, Vice President Gulf Coast Nicholas J. Marrone, Vice President West Coast Joseph T. Soresi, Vice President Atlantic Coast Kermett Mangram, Vice President Government Services HEADQUARTERS 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746 (301) 899-0675 ALGONAC 520 St. Clair River Dr., Algonac, MI 48001 (810) 794-4988 ANCHORAGE 721 Sesame St., #1C, Anchorage, AK 99503 (907) 561-4988 BALTIMORE 2315 Essex St., Baltimore, MD 21224 (410) 327-4900 GUAM P.O. Box 3328, Hagatna, Guam 96932 Cliffline Office Ctr. Bldg., Suite 103B 422 West O’Brien Dr., Hagatna, Guam 96910 (671) 477-1350 HONOLULU 606 Kalihi St., Honolulu, HI 96819 (808) 845-5222 HOUSTON 1221 Pierce St., Houston, TX 77002 (713) 659-5152 JACKSONVILLE 5100 Belfort Rd., Jacksonville, FL 32256 (904) 281-2622 JOLIET 10 East Clinton St., Joliet, IL 60432 (815) 723-8002 MOBILE 1640 Dauphin Island Pkwy, Mobile, AL 36605 (251) 478-0916 NEW ORLEANS 3911 Lapalco Blvd., Harvey, LA 70058 (504) 328-7545 NEW YORK 635 Fourth Ave., Brooklyn, NY 11232 (718) 499-6600 Government Services Division: (718) 499-6600 I n qu i ri n g S e a f a r er Editor’s note: This month’s question was answered by upgraders at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, located in Piney Point, Md. What is the importance of upgrading and what are your impressions of the school? Victor Gonzalez OS Instead of being stagnant you have something to work towards. You can learn some new things and it gives you hope to climb the ladder. It takes some time but it’s important to keep you going and learning. Basically, upgrading makes it more exciting to work your way up…. This is my first time here and I love it. It’s much bigger and fancier than I thought. Everything is real convenient, as far as travel. The rooms are nice, your meals are served at good times and it is much more convenient compared to other places I’ve been. Good study atmosphere with your library and you have your own room where you can study in peace and quiet. Jordache Hunter AB Knowledge is power, you know. Without it you are standing still and that is why I come to the school. Knowledge is power so I am trying to get all the knowledge I can. The school has not changed, and I mean that in a good way. The faculty, cooks, staff, everybody is great. It’s kind of like a family reunion. Milton Sivells Chief Steward I have been sailing as cook for seven years and steward for over eight years. The importance of upgrading is to make sure that everybody has their endorsements because the industry has changed now. The Coast Guard has turned everything around and the union [is working closely with] the Coast Guard, which is a good thing. About the school itself, the teachers P i c - F r o m - T h e -P a s t and the chefs are great. Everybody is here to help one another and if you are having problems, they are elbow to elbow with you helping you get through. The food is good and the camaraderie of everybody here is outstanding. From the front desk to the personnel office everybody is here to help. Pamela Wilson Chief Cook It’s a great opportunity to be back here upgrading. I think it’s very important because you basically make your own pay raises by upgrading your skills. You keep coming back and you can go as far as you want to go. They have no limits, no limitations as far as upgrading is concerned. The faster that you do it and the more consistent you are, the better off you will be…. You have great mentors and teachers that help you along the way. If you have any questions you have a great academic program here at the library. Everyone works with you on any questions you have on whatever you are studying…. The impression I have of the school is it is like being back home. It’s a very beautiful atmosphere here. When you are away you miss it and when you come back everyone remembers you and welcomes you with open arms. Kenneth Sterns OS In my opinion the importance of upgrading is you become better-educated in the field that you want to move forward in. You will make better money. I personally don’t think you should sit there and be stagnant in what you are doing, and it’s free so what more could you want? The impressions of the school are great. I have had outstanding instructors in every course I have been through. I’ve scored higher on my courses here than I have in any other programs that I have been through in my life. How many other schools can you go to where they feed you and teach you for free? Also it would cost you $20,000 to $40,000 to go to college and you can earn an associate’s degree here for free. NORFOLK 115 Third St., Norfolk, VA 23510 (757) 622-1892 OAKLAND 1121 7th St., Oakland, CA 94607 (510) 444-2360 PHILADELPHIA 2604 S. 4 St., Philadelphia, PA 19148 (215) 336-3818 PINEY POINT P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674 (301) 994-0010 PORT EVERGLADES 1221 S. Andrews Ave., Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33316 (954) 522-7984 SANTURCE 1057 Fernandez Juncos Ave., Stop 16 Santurce, PR 00907 (787) 721-4033 ST. LOUIS/ALTON 4581 Gravois Ave., St. Louis, MO 63116 (314) 752-6500 TACOMA 3411 South Union Ave., Tacoma, WA 98409 (253) 272-7774 WILMINGTON 510 N. Broad Ave., Wilmington, CA 90744 (310) 549-4000 Retiree August “Gus” Roth sent this 1948 photo of the SIU deck gang aboard Waterman Steamship’s C-2 cargo ship SS Hurricane. “We were on the New Orleans to Mobile, Ala., to Puerto Rico run,” Roth wrote. “This was our usual work clothes. We worked well together and were a good group of guys.” If anyone has a vintage union-related photograph he or she would like to share with other Seafarers LOG readers, please send it to the Seafarers LOG, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. Photographs will be returned, if so requested. High-resolution digital images may be sent to webmaster@seafarers.org 12 Seafarers LOG March 2011 �63364_Log_Mar2011:January 08 2/18/2011 8:05 AM Page 13 We lc o m e A sh o r e Each month, the Seafarers LOG pays tribute to the SIU members who have devoted their working lives to sailing aboard U.S.-flag vessels on the deep seas, inland waterways or Great Lakes. Listed below are brief biographical sketches of those members who recently retired from the union. The brothers and sisters of the SIU thank those members for a job well done and wish them happiness and good health in the days ahead. DEEP SEA CHRISTOPHER ATKINS Brother Christopher Atkins, 66, started sailing with the NMU in 1989. He was born in Connecticut and worked as a member of the deck department. Brother Atkins most recently sailed aboard the APL Pearl. He calls Jacksonville, Fla., home. MORRIS CORNELL Brother Morris Cornell, 72, joined the union in 1991, initially sailing on the Cape Edmont. He was born in New York and upgraded his skills on three occasions at the maritime training center in Piney Point, Md. Brother Cornell was last employed aboard the Maersk Utah as a member of the steward department. He is a resident of Altemonte, Fla. GARY DATES Brother Gary Dates, 63, began sailing with the union in 1978, originally in the Great Lakes division. His first ship was the A Guthrie. Brother Dates was born in New York. The deck department member last worked on the USNS Pililau. Brother Dates upgraded on numerous occasions at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. He resides in Texas City, Texas. THEODORE DOI Brother Theodore Doi, 65, was born in Hawaii. He began his SIU career in 1989. Brother Doi’s first ship was the Independence; his last was the Horizon Hawk. In 2001, the deck department member visited the Piney Point school to enhance his seafaring abilities. Brother Doi is a resident of Waianae, Hawaii. RICHARD HILBERT Brother Richard Hilbert, 65, became an SIU member in 1990 while in the port of Jacksonville, Fla. His initial voyage was aboard the Cape Clear; his last was on the Honor. Brother Hilbert sailed in the deck department. He lives in Tampa, Fla. March 2011 MELVIN KERNS Brother Melvin Kerns, 62, joined the Seafarers in 1993 while in the port of New Orleans. Brother Kerns’ first trip was aboard the USNS Regulus. In 1995 and 2001, he upgraded at the union-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. Brother Kerns sailed in the engine department. His final ship was the Maersk Tennessee. He settled in Slidell, La. AHMED MADARI Brother Ahmed Madari, 65, signed on with the SIU in 1977. Brother Madari was born in Yemen. He initially sailed on the Charleston as a member of the steward department. Brother Madari last worked aboard the Long Lines. He is a resident of Staten Island, N.Y. ALFRED MARTIN Brother Alfred Martin, 66, started shipping with the union in 2001 while in Houston. His earliest trip was on the Prudhoe Bay. Brother Martin, a member of the deck department, attended classes in 2009 at the Paul Hall Center. His final trip was aboard the Meteor. Brother Martin makes his home in La Marque, Texas. DOMINIC SANFILIPPO Brother Dominic Sanfilippo, 61, donned the SIU colors in 1973. He originally worked on the Jefferson Davis. Brother Sanfilippo was a member of the deck department. He was born in San Diego. Brother Sanfilippo most recently shipped aboard the Comet. He continues to call San Diego home. GEORGE SHAW JR. Brother George Shaw Jr., 65, became a Seafarer in 1989. His first ship was the USNS Assertive; his last the 2nd Lt. John Paul Bobo. Brother Shaw sailed in the deck department. He resides in Milton, Fla. JOSE VALLE Brother Jose Valle, 65, was born in Puerto Rico. He started his career with the SIU in 1969. Brother Valle was originally employed on the Los Angeles. The engine-department member enhanced his skills often at the SIU-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. Brother Valle’s final voyage was aboard the Overseas Arctic. He continues to live in Puerto Rico. GREAT LAKES ROGER LORENZ Brother Roger Lorenz, 65, joined the union in 1978 while in Detroit. His earliest trip was aboard the Paul Thayer. Brother Lorenz, who sailed in the deck and engine departments, is a Michigan native. In 1980 and 1988, he visited the Piney Point school to upgrade his seafaring skills. Brother Lorenz’s last ship was the Charles E. Wilson. He is a resident of Painesdale, Mich. INLAND DAVID ZEIGLER Brother David Zeigler, 56, started sailing with the union in 1990. The deck department member worked primarily with Crowley Towing & Transportation of Jacksonville. Brother Zeigler attended classes often at the Paul Hall Center. He resides in Ocala, Fla. NATIONAL MARITIME UNION GORDON KODACK Brother Gordon Kodack, 65, is a native of Ontario. He began sailing with the NMU in 1975. Brother Kodack’s final trip to sea was on the Fortaleza. He settled in Clearwater, Fla. member was born in Portugal. Brother Lopes took advantage of educational opportunities available at the Seafarers-affiliated school in 2001. His most recent trip was aboard the Energy Enterprise. Brother Lopes makes his home in East Providence, R.I. GEORGE TUCKER SR. Brother George Tucker Sr., 59, started shipping with the Seafarers in 2001 when the NMU and SIU merged. He enhanced his abilities in 2001 at the maritime training center in Piney Point. Brother Tucker last sailed on the Green Point. He calls New Orleans home. RAMIRO LOPES Brother Ramiro Lopes, 65, became an NMU member in 1980. The steward department T h i s M o n t h I n S I U Hi st o r y Editor’s note: The following items are reprinted from previous editions of the Seafarers LOG. 1941 Over 2,500 members of the Atlantic and Gulf District participated in the election of officers of the SIU, Atlantic and Gulf District for 1941. This was the first election conducted since the two districts were amalgamated into the one district. The election covered the Atlantic District Representative, the Gulf District Representative, and Port Agents and Patrolmen in all ports from Boston to Texas City and including San Juan, Puerto Rico. 1956 U.S. merchant seamen and the maritime industry completely overpowered the opposition to the 50-50 Cargo Preference Law as the U.S. Senate voted 57 to 23 for the Magnuson Amendment to restore 50-50 to agricultural surplus shipments. The result was a crushing defeat for the foreign shipping lobbyists and the farm-bloc allies who sough to use food surplus as a lever to destroy 50-50 and with it a large part of the U.S. merchant fleet. Contributing to the success of the 50-50 fight was the strong support it received from the SIU and other maritime unions. 1964 The SIU this week accused Cargill, Inc., one of the nation’s largest major grain trading companies, of “waving the flag in order to mask their gluttony for greater profits at the expense of this nation’s interest in the carriage of grain products to the Soviet bloc.” The SIU’s statement pointed out that the cost of shipping on American vessels does not curtail opportunities for the shipment of U.S. wheat abroad. The union affirmed the insistence of maritime labor on the observance of the 50 percent requirement as in the best interest of the nation as a whole, as well as the maritime workers immediately concerned. 1982 Nine seamen, including seven SIU members, were killed instantly when an explosion tore through the empty cargo tank they were working in or near and set the SIU-contracted SS Golden Dolphin ablaze on the afternoon of March 6. The vessel was about 900 miles east of Bermuda when the blast occurred. The men who passed were: Bosun Norman Beavers, AB Norman Wright, AB Leonard Martin, AB Roy Mack, Jr., OS Emanuel Rodriguez, QMED Norman Geno, and QMED Donald Sidney. On March 9, SIU President Frank Drozak telegraphed the families and offered this message of condolence. “On behalf of myself and our entire union membership, we offer our deepest and sincere sympathy in your time of bereavement.” Drozak went on to organize an investigation of the incident and promised to keep the families abreast of any new developments into the cause of the accident. Seafarers LOG 13 �63364_Log_Mar2011:January 08 2/18/2011 8:06 AM Page 14 Fina l D e p a r t ur e s DEEP SEA AWADH ABDULLA Brother Awadh Abdulla, 50, passed away Oct. 26. He signed on with the Seafarers in 1998. Brother Abdulla, a member of the engine department, first sailed on the USNS Antares. He was born in Yemen. Brother Abdulla’s final ship was the Horizon Consumer. He resided in Tacoma, Wash. JOHN BROWDER Pensioner John Browder, 64, died Nov. 23. Brother Browder first donned the SIU colors in 1966 while in the port of New York. He initially shipped aboard the Alcoa Master. Brother Browder, who shipped in the steward department, was born in Alabama. Prior to his retirement in 1996, he worked on the Brooks Range. Brother Browder made his home in Mobile, Ala. WILLIAM DATZKO Pensioner William Datzko, 88, passed away Oct. 24. Brother Datzko was born in Pennsylvania. He started sailing with the union in 1951 from the port of New York. Brother Datzko’s earliest trip was with Interocean American Shipping Corporation. The steward department member’s last ship was the Cove Leader. Brother Datzko retired in 1983 and settled in New Jersey. JUAN FERNANDEZ Pensioner Juan Fernandez, 86, died Nov. 4. A native of Puerto Rico, Brother Fernandez began sailing with the Seafarers in 1944 while in the port of New Orleans. Brother Fernandez’s first ship was the Steel Advocate; his last was the Newark. Brother Fernandez sailed in the deck department. He became a pensioner in 1984 and was a resident of Fremont, Calif. ANTONIO LLANES Pensioner Antonio Llanes, 83, passed away Dec. 5. Brother Llanes started shipping with the 14 Seafarers LOG union in 1949. The deck department member originally worked aboard the John B Waterman. Brother Llanes was a Tampa, Fla., native. Before his retirement in 1987, he sailed on the OMI Platte. Brother Llanes resided in his native city and state. THOMAS MISKO JR. Brother Thomas Misko Jr., 63, has died. He became an SIU member in 1976 while in the port of New Orleans. Brother Misko sailed in both the inland and deep sea divisions during his career. He was a steward department member. Brother Misko’s first trip was with Inland Tugs. He was born in Louisiana. Brother Misko’s final expedition was aboard the Stephen W. Pless. He called Picayune, Miss., home. FELIPE ORLANDA Pensioner Felipe Orlanda, 65, passed away Aug. 9. Brother Orlanda joined the Seafarers in 1987. He was initially employed on the USNS Persistent. Brother Orlanda was a member of the steward department. He was born in the Philippines. Brother Orlanda’s most recent voyage was aboard the Virginian. He went on pension in 2008 and lived in Chesapeake, Va. PABLO PACHECO Pensioner Pablo Pacheco, 81, died Oct. 21. Brother Pacheco signed on with the SIU in 1956 in the port of New York. His earliest trip to sea aboard an Ore Navigation Corporation vessel. Brother Pacheco, who sailed in the deck department, last worked on the Expedition. He began receiving his pension in 1994 and settled in Puerto Rico. DONALD PRESSLY Pensioner Donald Pressly, 79, passed away Oct. 8. Brother Pressly was born in New York. He started sailing with the union in 1952. A mem- ber of the deck department, his first ship was an Isco Inc. vessel. Prior to retiring in 1994, Brother Pressly shipped on the Sealand Elizabeth. He was a resident of Lake George, N.Y. OSCAR RAMOS Brother Oscar Ramos, 37, died Oct. 21. He first donned the SIU colors in 1993 while in Piney Point, Md. An engine department member, Brother Ramos’s earliest voyage was aboard the 1st Lt. Jack Lummus. The New York native’s final trip to sea was on the Horizon Trader. Brother Ramos lived in his native state. MARK THOMAS Brother Mark Thomas, 48, passed away Nov. 12. He became a Seafarer in 1989. Brother Thomas’s first voyage was aboard the Independence. He sailed in the deck department in both the deep sea and inland divisions. Brother Thomas’s final trip was on the Manhattan Island. He was born in Alabama but called New York home. KURTIS WITCHER Brother Kurtis Witcher, 57, died Oct. 18. He joined the SIU ranks in 1999 while in the port of Norfolk, Va. Brother Witcher originally shipped aboard the USNS Watson. He was born in New York and shipped in the steward department. Brother Witcher most recently sailed on a Keystone Shipping vessel. He resided in Virginia. INLAND DONALD BROTHERS Pensioner Donald Brothers, 92, passed away Nov. 11. Boatman Brothers started his seafaring career in 1957. He initially sailed in the steward department aboard a CG Willis Inc. vessel. Boatman Brothers last shipped with Interstate Oil Transportation Company. He went on pension in 1982 and lived in his native state, North Carolina. FLOYD HUDGINS JR. Pensioner Floyd Hudgins Jr., 80, died Nov. 11. Brother Hudgins joined the union in 1961 while in the port of Norfolk, Va. He mostly shipped aboard vessels operated by Moran Towing of Virginia. Brother Hudgins was born in Virginia. He started collecting compensation for his retirement in 1988. Brother Hudgins was a resident of Portsmouth, Va. STEVEN MATTISON Pensioner Steven Mattison, 58, passed away Oct. 5. Brother Mattison began shipping with the SIU in 1987. His earliest trip was on a Moran Towing of Maryland vessel. Brother Mattison sailed in the engine department. His final boat was operated by G&H Towing. Brother Mattison retired in 2006. He made his home in Iowa. ERNIE WATSON Pensioner Ernie Watson, 72, died Oct. 26. Brother Watson signed on with the SIU in 1968. He shipped aboard vessels operated by Mariner Towing for the duration of his career. Brother Watson became a pensioner in 2001. He called North Carolina home. Editor’s note: The following brothers, all former members of the National Maritime Union (NMU), have passed away. NATIONAL MARITIME UNION LOUIS ALMEIDA Pensioner Louis Almeida, 91, passed away Nov. 28. The Puerto Rico-born mariner went on pension in 1968. Brother Almeida made his home in New York. ROBERT BATSON Pensioner Robert Batson, 84, died Nov. 16. Brother Batson was a native of Atlanta, Ga. He retired in 1986. Brother Batson lived in Philadelphia. JAMES BONNEAU Pensioner James Bonneau, 86, passed away Nov. 10. Brother Bonneau was born in Bristol, Mass. He became a pensioner in 1994 and resided in Sea Level, N.C. OSCAR BROOKS Pensioner Oscar Brooks, 82, died Nov. 8. A native of Virginia, Brother Brooks went on pension in 1969. He made his home in Greenville, Va. CECIL HOLLAND Pensioner Cecil Holland, 85, passed away Nov. 14. Brother Holland was born in Georgia. He retired in 1992. Brother Holland called Long Beach, Calif., home. CURTIS JOE Pensioner Curtis Joe, 86, died Nov. 6. Brother Curtis was born in South Carolina. He started collecting retirement compensation in 1989 and settled in Heidelberg, Miss. ROBERT KALTENBACH Pensioner Robert Kaltenbach, 85, passed away Nov. 25. The Wisconsin-born mariner became a pensioner in 1983. Brother Kaltenbach was a resident of Port Arthur, Texas. LEONARDO RONDON Pensioner Leonardo Rondon, 88, died Nov. 18. Brother Rondon was a native of Puerto Rico. He went on pension in 1974. Brother Rondon lived in Glen Burnie, Md. WILLIAM PATRICK Pensioner William Patrick, 85, passed away Oct. 15. Brother Patrick was born in Trinidad. He retired in 1968. Brother Patrick called New York home. RONALD SMITH Pensioner Ronald Smith, 64, died Nov. 11. Brother Smith was a native of New Orleans. He started collecting compensation for his retirement in 2006. Brother Smith made his home in Baton Rouge, La. Name Age Camp, Rudolph 77 Cardoza, Francisco 84 Da Silva, Luiz 92 Elias, Jose 86 Garzet, Jorge 88 Hernesh, Harold 86 Jablonski, Charles 67 Keohokapu, Charles 85 Kirkland, James 87 Pilgrim, Reynold 88 Reid, Robert 89 Saleh, Hassan 83 Shephard, John 71 Singletary, Clyde 88 Thibodeaux, Floyd 89 Toro, Hector 77 Urbanowicz, John 87 Vard, Joseph 91 DOD Oct. 21 Oct. 28 Oct. 14 Oct. 11 Oct. 6 Oct. 9 Oct. 16 Oct. 2 Oct. 23 Oct. 11 Oct. 20 Oct. 25 Oct. 12 Aug. 16 Oct. 11 Oct. 13 Oct. 24 Oct. 12 March 2011 �63364_Log_Mar2011:January 08 2/18/2011 8:06 AM Page 15 D i g es t o f S h ip b oa r d U n io n M e et i ng s AMERICAN SPIRIT (American Steamship Company), December 28 – Chairman Paul Gohs, Secretary Joel E. Markle, Educational Director Donald R. Jaegle, Deck Delegate Ben J. Skuban. Chairman reminded crew members to check expiration dates on necessary seafaring documents. Suggestion was made to use winter layup time to renew documents. Engine department members who are interested in acquiring electrician endorsement were advised to see educational director or contact Piney Point school for more information. Educational director discussed BST (Basic Safety Training) and changes to medical benefits for dependents under 26. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Seafarers thanked galley crew for an excellent Christmas dinner. Request was made for an additional copy of the contract. Members were urged to use caution while walking on deck and to spread salt if needed. CHARGER (Maersk Line, Limited), December 12 – Chairman Robert Pagan Jr., Secretary George F. Farala, Educational Director Andrew J. Linares, Deck Delegate Julius Dagoldol, Engine Delegate Salvador Baclayon, Steward Delegate John Bennett. Bosun reported smooth voyage and first-rate crew. He reiterated the need to have passport ready for customs and immigration. Secretary expressed gratitude to crew members for their cooperation. They were encouraged to take advantage of upgrading opportunities available at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Steward depart- ment would like a radio. Recommendation was made regarding vacation benefits. The Seafarers LOG attempts to print as many digests of union shipboard minutes as possible. On occasion, because of space limitations, some will be omitted. Ships’ minutes first are reviewed by the union’s contract department. Those issues requiring attention or resolution are addressed by the union upon receipt of the ships’ minutes. The minutes are then forwarded to the Seafarers LOG for publication. With Seafarers Aboard the Cape Race HORIZON RELIANCE (Horizon Lines), December 21 – Chairman Kissinfor N. Taylor, Secretary Paul Sullivan, Educational Director Daniel L. Borden, Deck Delegate Rene Rafer, Steward Delegate Efren Ancheta. Chairman announced year-ending payoff in Honolulu on December 31. Secretary thanked crew for keeping public spaces clean. Educational director advised everyone to upgrade at the union-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md., and make sure they stay up-to-date on all necessary seafaring documents. Treasurer reported $155 in ship’s fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. A vote of thanks was given to the steward department. Next port: Honolulu. LIGHTNING (Maersk Line, Limited), December 4 – Chairman Shawn T. Evans, Secretary Donald F. Dwyer, Educational Director Daniel F. Dean, Deck Delegate James D. Morgan. Chairman thanked crew members for a safe journey. Seafarers were asked to leave rooms clean for reliefs and to cover trash while in port. Secretary stated they would be receiving new linen in Long Beach, Calif. Educational director asked members to keep dryer and washing machine doors closed after use. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Mariners requested new washing machine and new chairs for crew mess hall. All departments were thanked for a job well done. Suggestions were made regarding overtime in upcoming contract negotiations. Next port: Long Beach, Calif. Pictured during a recent voyage aboard the Keystone-operated Cape Race are (from left) AB Phil Harmon, Steward/Baker Roslyn Johnson, QMED Martin “Red” Allred, GVA Sergio Giusti and Bosun Gerald McIntyre. MAERSK MISSOURI (Maersk Line, Limited), December 6 – Chairman Oliver M. Balico, Secretary Glenn C. Bamman, Educational Director Robert T. Norris, Deck Delegate Paul I. Castillo, Engine Delegate Lisa A. Harewood, Steward Delegate Husain Salah. Chairman reviewed ship’s schedule and stated payoff would take place on December 13 in Elizabeth, N.J. Secretary reported good crew and asked those departing vessel to leave rooms clean for the next person. Educational director Sealand Charger Crew Celebrates Thanksgiving SIU members sailing aboard the Sealand Charger celebrated Thanksgiving at sea. Pictured aboard the ship are (from left) AB Julius Dagoldol, QMED Salvador Baclayon, AB Phil Quitoriano, AB Arnel Resurreccion, Steward/Baker George Farala, Chief Cook Ahmed Quraish and DEU Amer Ghaleb. March 2011 stressed the importance of having proper shipping documents and encouraged mariners to attend classes at the Piney Point school to enhance seafaring abilities. Treasurer reported $1,500 in ships fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew expressed gratitude to steward department for great meals. Next ports: Elizabeth, N.J., Charleston, S.C., Norfolk, Va., and Newark, N.J. OCEAN CRESCENT (PacificGulf Marine), December 5 – Chairman Joseph L. Casalino, Secretary Obencio M. Espinoza, Educational Director David A. Brewster, Deck Delegate Charles Collins. Bosun thanked crew members for a job well done and announced payoff in Long Beach, Calif., on December 16. He acknowledged the steward department for having great attitudes and menus. Secretary thanked crew members for helping keep ship clean. He reminded them to leave rooms clean for arriving crew. Educational director urged members to enhance their skills at Piney Point, which can lead to better opportunities and advancement. No beefs or disputed OT reported. It was noted that galley reefers had come in and are to be installed in Houston. Recommendation was made to increase pension amount. Next port: Long Beach, Calif. PRESTIGE NEW YORK (Liberty Maritime), December 12 – Chairman Elkanah B. Ladia, Secretary Fernando R. Guity, Educational Director Val G. Gustis, Deck Delegate Joselier Itaralde, Engine Delegate Ruziell Bautista, Steward Delegate Detrell Lambey. Chairman discussed ship’s itinerary and talked to chief engineer about control of heat aboard vessel. Secretary thanked crew for their help in keeping coffee shop area clean. Educational director reiterated the need to renew documents in a timely manner and advised all mariners to attend classes at the SIU-affiliated training center in Piney Point, Md. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Everyone expressed gratitude to the steward department for the Thanksgiving feast and excellent meals every day. Next port: Charleston, S.C. ST. LOUIS EXPRESS (Crowley), December 28 – Chairman Matthew T. Sagay, Secretary Richard A. Riley, Educational Director Troy Ancar, Deck Delegate Tavell Love, Engine Delegate Michael Warner. Chairman thanked crew members for keeping ship clean and encouraged them to secure items in rooms as a safety measure. Secretary reported smooth trip. Educational director advised mariners to check the Seafarers LOG for upcoming classes available at the Piney Point school. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Suggestions made pertaining to vacation and pension benefits. It was requested that company supply cold/foul weather gear for deck gangway watch and day worker. Mariners would also like a satellite phone for calls while at sea. Next ports: Charleston, S.C., Miami and Houston. BUFFALO (American Steamship Company), January 11 – Chairman Timothy D. Koebel, Educational Director Abdul M. Said, Deck Delegate Ahmed Ali, Engine Delegate Kenneth Adams, Steward Delegate Najeeb Ginah. Chairman asked Seafarers to leave foc’sles neat and orderly when departing vessel. No beefs or disputed OT reported. President’s report from the December 2010 Seafarers LOG was read and discussed. Bosun expressed gratitude to steward department, saying that in his “40 years out here” he’s “seen none the equal”. New sofas for crew lounge were requested as well as internet and email access for crew. Next port: Toledo, Ohio. Seafarers LOG 15 �63364_Log_Mar2011_X:January 08 2/22/2011 Chief Storekeeper Terry Malone 8:05 AM Page 16 Former LNG shipmates QMED Kevin Conklin, Port Agent Georg Kenny, Recertified Bosun John Wells Wi t h S e a f a r e rs A bo a rd t h e U SN S Se ay Wiper Darrin Cobb Know Your Rights STOS Francis Miller relieves AB Anthony Smith at the gangway. FINANCIAL REPORTS. The Constitution of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU makes specific provision for safeguarding the membership’s money and union finances. The constitution requires a detailed audit by certified public accountants every year, which is to be submitted to the membership by the secretary-treasurer. A yearly finance committee of rank-and-file members, elected by the membership, each year examines the finances of the union and reports fully their findings and recommendations. Members of this committee may make dissenting reports, specific recommendations and separate findings. TRUST FUNDS. All trust funds of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU are administered in accordance with the provisions of various trust fund agreements. All these agreements specify that the trustees in charge of these funds shall equally consist of union and management representatives and their alternates. All expenditures and disbursements of trust funds are made only upon approval by a majority of the trustees. All trust fund financial records are available at the headquarters of the various trust funds. SHIPPING RIGHTS. A member’s shipping rights and seniority are protected exclusively by contracts between the union and the employers. Members should get to know their shipping rights. Copies of these contracts are posted and available in all union halls. If members believe there have been violations of their shipping or seniority rights as contained in the contracts between the union and the employers, they should notify the Seafarers Appeals Board by certified mail, return receipt requested. The proper 16 Seafarers LOG 3rd Asst. Engineer Robert Scott, SIU hawsepiper Chief Mate David Centofanti, SIU hawsepiper address for this is: Augustin Tellez, Chairman Seafarers Appeals Board 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 Full copies of contracts as referred to are available to members at all times, either by writing directly to the union or to the Seafarers Appeals Board. CONTRACTS. Copies of all SIU contracts are available in all SIU halls. These contracts specify the wages and conditions under which an SIU member works and lives aboard a ship or boat. Members should know their contract rights, as well as their obligations, such as filing for overtime (OT) on the proper sheets and in the proper manner. If, at any time, a member believes that an SIU patrolman or other union official fails to protect their contractual rights properly, he or she should contact the nearest SIU port agent. EDITORIAL POLICY — THE SEAFARERS LOG. The Seafarers LOG traditionally has refrained from publishing any article serving the political purposes of any individual in the union, officer or member. It also has refrained from publishing articles deemed harmful to the union or its collective membership. This established policy has been reaffirmed by membership action at the September 1960 meetings in all constitutional ports. The responsibility for Seafarers LOG policy is vested in an editorial board which consists of the executive board of the union. The executive board may delegate, from among its ranks, one individual to carry out this responsibility. Steward Assistant Roy Warren Chief Steward Richard Gray, Chief Cook Luisa Oben, SA David Stephens PAYMENT OF MONIES. No monies are to be paid to anyone in any official capacity in the SIU unless an official union receipt is given for same. Under no circumstances should any member pay any money for any reason unless he is given such receipt. In the event anyone attempts to require any such payment be made without supplying a receipt, or if a member is required to make a payment and is given an official receipt, but feels that he or she should not have been required to make such payment, this should immediately be reported to union headquarters. CONSTITUTIONAL RIGHTS AND OBLIGATIONS. Copies of the SIU Constitution are available in all union halls. All members should obtain copies of this constitution so as to familiarize themselves with its contents. Any time a member feels any other member or officer is attempting to deprive him or her of any constitutional right or obligation by any methods, such as dealing with charges, trials, etc., as well as all other details, the member so affected should immediately notify headquarters. EQUAL RIGHTS. All members are guaranteed equal rights in employment and as members of the SIU. These rights are clearly set forth in the SIU Constitution and in the contracts which the union has negotiated with the employers. Consequently, no member may be discriminated against because of race, creed, color, sex, national or geographic origin. If any member feels that he or she is denied the equal rights to which he or she is entitled, the member should notify union headquarters. SEAFARERS POLITICAL ACTIVITY DONATION — SPAD. SPAD is a separate segregated fund. Its proceeds are used to further its objects and purposes including, but not limited to, furthering the political, social and economic interests of maritime workers, the preservation and furthering of the American merchant marine with improved employment opportunities for seamen and boatmen and the advancement of trade union concepts. In connection with such objects, SPAD supports and contributes to political candidates for elective office. All contributions are voluntary. No contribution may be solicited or received because of force, job discrimination, financial reprisal, or threat of such conduct, or as a condition of membership in the union or of employment. If a contribution is made by reason of the above improper conduct, the member should notify the Seafarers International Union or SPAD by certified mail within 30 days of the contribution for investigation and appropriate action and refund, if involuntary. A member should support SPAD to protect and further his or her economic, political and social interests, and American trade union concepts. NOTIFYING THE UNION — If at any time a member feels that any of the above rights have been violated, or that he or she has been denied the constitutional right of access to union records or information, the member should immediately notify SIU President Michael Sacco at headquarters by certified mail, return receipt requested. The address is: Michael Sacco, President Seafarers International Union 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746. March 2011 �63364_Log_Mar2011_X:January 08 2/22/2011 8:05 AM Page 17 Pa u l H a l l C e n t e r U p gr a di n g C o u r s e S c h e du l e The following is the schedule of courses at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md., for the next few months. All programs are geared to improving the job skills of Seafarers and to promoting the American maritime industry. Please note that this schedule may change to reflect the needs of the membership, the maritime industry and—in times of conflict—the nation’s security. Students attending any of these classes should check in the Saturday before their course’s start date. The courses listed here will begin promptly on the morning of the start dates. For classes ending on a Friday, departure reservations should be made for Saturday. Seafarers who have any questions regarding the upgrading courses offered at the Paul Hall Center may call the admissions office at (301) 994-0010. Title of Course AB STOS Fast Rescue Boats May 27 March 21 May 16 April 1 May 27 MSC Readiness Refresher April 22 MSC Small Arms April 25 Radar Recertification (1 day) April 29 May 10 GMDSS April 29 June 24 May 2 May 23 Tank Ship Familiarization DL May 6 May 27 April 4 April 15 May 16 May 20 Engine Department FOWT Advanced Container Maintenance Marine Electrician April 4 May 30 April 29 June 24 April 11 May 5 March 7 May 2 June 27 April 1 May 27 July 22 May 9 July 1 UPGRADING APPLICATION Name __________________________________________________________________ Address ________________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________________ Telephone (Home)_________________________ (Cell)_________________________ Date of Birth ____________________________________________________________ Deep Sea Member Lakes Member Inland Waters Member If the following information is not filled out completely, your application will not be processed. Social Security #_______________________ Book # __________________________ Seniority_____________________________ Department______________________ Home Port_____________________________________________________________ E-mail________________________________________________________________ Endorsement(s) or License(s) now held______________________________________ _______________________________________________________________________ Are you a graduate of the SHLSS/PHC trainee program? Yes No Have you attended any SHLSS/PHC upgrading courses? Yes No If yes, class # ___________________________________________________________ If yes, course(s) taken_____________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________________ March 2011 Safety Upgrading Courses Vessel Security Officer Chief Steward March 28 May 9 April 1 May 13 April 4 April 25 June 20 March 14 April 11 May 16 June 13 March 21 April 18 May 23 June 20 Steward Department Recertified Steward March 25 April 22 May 27 June 24 May 13 May 9 Government Vessels Date of Completion May 2 February 21 May 16 BST/Basic Fire Fighting May 10 April 18 June 13 ECDIS Basic Auxiliary Plant Ops May 6 April 11 ARPA Tank PIC Barge DL April 28 June 24 March 7 April 4 May 9 June 6 Medical Care Provider May 16 May 2 Radar Observer Unlimited Fire Fighting Date of Completion April 4 May 30 Start Date Welding Start Date Deck Department Water Survival Title of Course April 18 March 14 February 25 May 20 May 10 April 8 April 29 June 24 March 18 April 15 May 20 June 17 March 25 April 22 May 27 June 24 May 26 April 4 Chief Cook These modules start every other week. The next class is scheduled to begin March 7. Galley Operations/Advanced Galley Operations These modules start every Monday. Students who have registered for classes at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, but later discover—for whatever reason—that they cannot attend should inform the admissions department immediately so arrangements can be made to have other students take their places. With this application, COPIES of the following must be sent: One hundred and twenty-five (125) days seatime for the previous year, one day in the last six months prior to the date your class starts, USMMD (z-card) front and back or relevant pages of merchant mariner credential, front page of your union book indicating your department and seniority, qualifying seatime for the course if it is Coast Guard tested, 1995 STCW Certificate, valid SHBP Clinic Card and TWIC. COURSE ____________________________ START DATE _______________ DATE OF COMPLETION _______________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________ ____________________________ ____________________________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________ _______________ _______________ _______________ _______________ LAST VESSEL: __________________________________Rating: ______________ Date On: ___________________________ Date Off:________________________ SIGNATURE ________________________________ DATE___________________ NOTE: Transportation will be paid in accordance with the scheduling letter only if you present original receipts and successfully complete the course. If you have any questions, contact your port agent before departing for Piney Point. Not all classes are reimbursable. Return completed application to: Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education Admissions Office, P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674-0075; or fax to (301) 994-2189. The Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education is a private, non-profit, equal opportunity institution and admits students, who are otherwise qualified, of any race, nationality or sex. The school complies with applicable laws with regard to admission, access or treatment of students in its programs or activities. 3/11 Seafarers LOG 17 �63364_Log_Mar2011:January 08 2/18/2011 8:06 AM Page 18 P a ul Ha ll C e nte r C la s s e s Water Survival – The following upgraders (above in alphabetical order) Unlicensed Apprentice Water Survival Class 739 – Fourteen Phase I unlicensed apprentices completed their training in this 60-hour course Dec. 10. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Christopher Allen, Vincent Burton, Ma’Shanda Carr, Jeff Gleason, Joseph Hernandez, Ian Jordan, Nicholas Katsampes, Kelly Krick, Gary Newbegin Jr., Roosevelt Osborne, Preteek Poras, Michael Robinson, Steven Supplee and Timothy Van Weezle. Class instructor Ben Cusic is at the far left in the back row. graduated from this course Feb. 4: David Arcilla, Heaven Bautista, Mohamed Ghaleb, Philip Hurlbutt, Saleh Mohamed, Timothy White, Shaun Wood and Joe Zavala. Bernabe Pelingon, their instructor, is at right. Specially Trained Ordinary Seaman (STOS) – Four upgraders on Jan. 21 finished their requirements in this course. Graduating (above in alphabetical order) were: Juan Colon, Weilard Llao, Bryan Howell and Kenneth Stearns. Class Instructor Tom Truitt is at right. Welding – Nine Seafarers completed their requirements in this 103-hour course Jan. 28. Graduating (above in alphabetical order) were: Antuan Barnes, Eric Burgan, Apolinario Calacal, Richard Dela Cruz, Michael Iverson, Joseph Jacobs, Joshua Johnson, M’Barek Nouhairi and Jimmie Williams. Their instructor, Buzzy Andrews, is in the back row, second from left. FOWT – Six Seafarers completed their training in this course Feb. 4. Finishing their requirements and graduating (above in alphabetical order) were: Shawn Alexander, Maurice Brodie, Kevin Jennings Jr., Boyko Kovatchev, Charles Searfass and David Smart. Tim Achorn, the class instructor, is second from right. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Machinist – Twelve individuals on Feb. 4 graduated from this course. Completing their requirements (above in alphabetical order) were: Therman Ames, Arman Deblois, Patrick Devlin, Alshea Dixon, Martin Hamilton, Michael Iverson, Joseph Jacobs, Gilbert Johnson, Michael Jones, Keith McIntosh, Leoncio Rabaya Jr., and Enrique Velez. Class Instructor Steve Haver is kneeling left in the first row. 18 Seafarers LOG BST – Eighteen Seafarers finished their requirements in this course Feb. 4. Those grad- uating (above in alphabetical order) were: Shaker Abdulah, Janah Ahmed, Mohamed Ahmed, Saleh Ahmed, Saleh Alatri, James Albert, Michael Blue, Hazza Fathel, William Howell III, Hesham Hussein, Edison Inuman, Gregory Johns, Ali Musa, Antonio Octaviano, Randell Paredes, Roberto Queliza, Hipolita Roches and John Sanchez. Class Instructor Stan Beck is at left. (Note: Not all are pictured.) March 2011 �63364_Log_Mar2011:January 08 2/18/2011 8:06 AM Page 19 P a ul Ha ll C e nte r C la s s e s Tankship Famiarization DL – The following Phase III unlicensed apprentices (left in alphabetical order) completed this 63-hour course Jan. 28: Austin Anderson, Matthew Baptist, Robert Bryson, Matthew Clements, Jeremy Cooke, David Cronce, Christepher Cross, Daniel Cunningham, Melissa Gooch, Robert Goren, Antonio Hernandez, Marques Johnson, William Kane, Robert MacKay, David Marquez, Terry Mattison, Meree Mused, Bryan Page, Roman Pauley, Jose Rivas, Andrew Saraceno, Jonathan Scalsky, Karen Smith, William Smith, Richard Swirtz and Robert Tlalka. Medical Care Provider - The following upgraders (right in alphabetical order) finished their requirements in this course Feb. 4: Shane Anderson, George Cherry, Scotty Duncan, George Greggs, Robert Greggs, Terry Hughes, Gary Mason, Mark O’Neal, Sandy Parks, Terry Popperwill and Thomas Spain. Mark Cates, their instructor, is at right BST – Fifteen upgraders completed this course Feb. 4. Among those graduating (above in alphabetical order) were: Harry Borden, Sheree Brown, Hayden Gifford, Jerry Gonzaga, Victor Gonzalez, Eric Martin, Luis Martinez, Edgar Martinez-Morales, Salah Mohmohd, William Mulcahy, M’Barek Nouhairi, Reynato Ramos, Robert Scrivens, Jason Springer and James Taranto. BST (Hawaii) - Eighteen individuals completed this course Jan 15 in Barbers Point, Hawaii. Graduating (above in no particular order) were: David Porter, Stacy Merkle, Dustin Muller, Katherine Noerper, Felicia Ross, Brianne Smith, Medina Willis, Rebecca Ziegenfus, Arthimus Patnett, Sean Mungavin, Elisha Paddock, Andres Palma, Frank Pimental, Christopher Pride, Davidson Timothy, Nykia Williams, Patricia Tong and Eric Dickson. March 2011 BST (Hawaii) - The following individuals (above in no particular order) completed this course Jan. 15 at the Seafarers Training Facility in Barbers Point, Hawaii: Danielle Kouba, Monica Aceves, Holly Anderson, Nermin Besic, Anthony Ciafardini, Brian Crawford II, Carolina Garcia, William Golombiski, Nichole Holcomb, Romeo Isorena Jr., Denise Bradsher, Bryce Ekeren, Elizabeth Castillo, William Couture, Arly Joseph, Christina Kaapke, Danny Keary, Mark Lucas Jr., and Jessica Noriega. BST (Hawaii) - The following individuals (above in no particular order) completed this course Jan. 15 at the Seafarers Training Facility in Barbers Point, Hawaii: Nicole McDonald, Patrick Ryan, Matthew McFarland, Megan Shover, Vanessa Weary, William Pearson, Megan Anderson, Kristina Dohrmann, Paula Jones, Catherine Miller, Charles Long, Kevin Nunez, Jorge Andres Franco, Keith Green, Richard Henry and Joseph Jennings. Seafarers LOG 19 �63364_Log_Mar2011_X:January 08 2/22/2011 8:06 AM Page 20 Volume 73, Number 3 March 2011 Paul Hall Center Course Dates - Page 17 SIU Crews Help Transport Vital Great Lakes Cargoes H. Lee White Contributes to 2010 Increase SIU crews in 2010 continued their decades-long tradition of helping move cargoes on the Great Lakes – materials that are vital to the nation’s economy. According to the Lake Carriers’ Association (LCA), a coalition of 18 U.S.-flag vessel operators, American lakers transported 88.7 million tons of dry-bulk cargo in 2010, an increase of 33.4 percent over 2009. Shipments were, however, nearly 10 percent off the industry’s five-year average, a fact that the LCA says “reinforces that the U.S. econo- my has yet to fully recover from the recession.” Many vessels plying the Great Lakes are crewed by SIU members. Among those ships is American Steamship Company’s (ASC) H. Lee White. The photos on this page were taken aboard the White, a 704-foot vessel named in honor of a former chairman of ASC, during a 2010 voyage. The ship sailed from Detroit to Erie, Pa., where it unloaded a cargo of stone. (Thanks to Port Agent Todd Brdak for submitting the photos.) AB/Wheelsman Darren Lahaie AB Foadd Saleh operates the forward winch. The ship approaches Erie, Pa. GUDE Janah Ahmed swings out on the bosun’s chair. AB/Wheelsman Cornelius Smith Ron Pictured from left to right are UA Robert Tlalka, Recertified Bosun Bill Mulcahy, Port Agent Todd Brdak and GUDE Steve Hamilton. In photo above, GUDE Adrian Schubert (left), GUDE Janah Ahmed and Oiler/Gateman Mohamed Ahmed relax in the H. Lee White’s crew lounge. In photo at right, 2nd Cook Dave Warner (left) and SA Mohamed Noman clean the vessel’s galley at the end of a meal. Seafarers prepare to take on stores through the engine room. Vandercook, Oiler � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Seafarers Log Issues 2010-2019 Description An account of the resource Volumes LXXII-LXXXI of the Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Seafarers Log Digital Copies Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 2010-2019 Document A resource containing textual data. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre text. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource March 2011 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES MARAD AWARDS FAST SEALIFT SHIP CONTRACTS SIU-CREWED VESSELS ASSIST IN KEY MILITARY EXERCISES SIU RETAINS JOBS ABOARD SL-7S, TELEMETRY SHIPS ADM. ALLEN REITERATES JONES ACT DID NOT HINDER BP OIL CLEANUP NEW SERVICE BODES WELL FOR NY WATERWAY CREWS CITY ANNOUNCES EXPANDED EAST RIVER FERRY OPERATION LATEST PIRACY INCIDENTS UNDERSCORE NEED FOR EFFECTIVE COUNTERMEASURES ‘UNDERCOVER BOSS’ FINDS ‘REALLY GREAT CREW’ REP. MILLER NAMED GREAT LAKES LEGISLATOR OF THE YEAR FEDERATION PRESIDENT: BUILD UP MIDDLE CLASS SEC. SOLIS SEES UNION ADVANTAGE BLS ISSUES ANNUAL REPORT ON MEMBERSHIP U.S. MARITIME LABOR, VESSEL OPERATORS URGE FUNDING FOR SHIPBUILDING PROGRAM UNION PLUS AUTO INSURANCE PUTS UNION MEMBERS IN DRIVER’S SEAT THE ED WOODS STORY- A TEENAGER IN WORLD WAR II UNION-CREWED VESSELS ASSIST IN MAJOR EXERCISE MV FREEDOM SEAFARERS SUPPORT OUR TROOPS SIU CREWS HELP TRANSPORT VITAL GREAT LAKES CARGOES H. LEE WHITE CONTRIBUTES TO 2010 INCREASE Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Seafarers Log Digital Copies Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 03/01/2010 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Newsprint Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context Vol. 73, No. 3 2011 Periodicals Seafarers Log http://www.seafarerslog.org/archives/files/original/207b29a97f51b620800278c02a5d4603.pdf d2d8a95c4d4b6284a3ddfab8ac8af03d PDF Text Text 63932_Newsletter_X:January 08 3/25/2011 7:23 PM Page 1 Volume 73, Number 4 April 2011 M TD Sp ot l i ght s C ri t i c al Ne e d F o r S t r o n g U . S . M er c h a n t M a r i n e During the most recent meeting of the AFL-CIO Maritime Trades Department executive board, guest speakers and MTD officials thoroughly explored major issues confronting the industry. Preserving the Jones Act – a law vital to America’s national and economic security – and effectively fighting back against piracy were two of the main topics discussed during the meeting, which took place Feb. 24-25 in Orlando, Fla. Guest speakers from the military, the administration, Congress and the business community all stated their unequivocal backing for the U.S. Merchant Marine. Pages 3, 9-13. SIU Exec. VP Augie Tellez (center) is pictured with (from left) Vice Adm. Albert J. Herberger (USN) (Ret.); Maj. Gen. James Hodge, commander, U.S. Army Combined Arms Support Command; Rear Adm. Mark Buzby, commander, U.S. Military Sealift Command; and MEBA President Mike Jewell. MTD President Michael Sacco (right), who also serves as president of the SIU, describes the patriotism consistently displayed by U.S. civilian mariners as MTD VP Scott Winter looks on. SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel (right) greets Jeffrey Lantz, director, commercial regulations and standards, U.S. Coast Guard. International Maritime Groups Launch New Anti-Piracy Effort Major maritime organizations around the globe have started a significant new anti-piracy campaign titled “Save Our Seafarers.” This ramped-up initiative includes a new website that makes it easy for visitors to contact elected representatives and urge their support for the world’s mariners. In photo at left, Seafarers at the union-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md., line up to give their backing. Pages 3, 24. USNS Washington Chambers Delivered Page 2 Horizon Producer Rescue Page 4 ‘Sail-In’ Scheduled for May Page 5 �63932_Newsletter_X:January 08 3/25/2011 8:06 PM Page 2 P re s i d e n t ’ s R e p o r t Battles Continue Between ongoing budget battles in Washington, a new global campaign against piracy, and our never-ending efforts to secure and maintain good jobs for the rank-and-file membership, the SIU remains fully engaged on maritime-specific issues. But this month, I have to begin by offering a heartfelt word of solidarity to our brothers and sisters in the public sector. Anyone who’s read a newspaper or watched TV in the last month undoubtedly is aware of the statelevel attacks against Americans who belong to publicsector unions. These disgusting legislative assaults aren’t based on facts or budgets, but on stripping workers of their bargaining rights. Everyone knows our nation is struggling with the worst economy in decades. What everyone also should know is that the public-sector workers who provide important services to our communities did not create any budget shortfalls. They are being blamed by some politicians and commentators for problems they didn’t Michael Sacco cause. Collective bargaining didn’t set off these economic troubles, either. Taxpayers are better off in states where public workers exercise their rights to bargain for wages and working conditions and benefits. You don’t have to be an economist to know that workers who are well-trained and understand their jobs regularly perform better and more efficiently. Just ask the companies that know what it means to have Seafarers under contract. Blaming working families and their unions isn’t the answer in Wisconsin or anywhere else. Neither is promoting so-called right-to-work legislation, which has proven year after year to drive down wages. The answer is to focus on creating good jobs. Public-sector workers already have taken pay cuts and refused pay raises to maintain health care and other benefits. They’re already sharing a burden they didn’t create, and it’s unfair for any governor or talk-show host or anyone else to point fingers at our union brothers and sisters. We have marched in solidarity with those members and will continue to support them in every way possible. Meanwhile, as I mentioned last month, we are right there on the front lines of budget fights in the nation’s capital that promise to have a huge impact on maritime. By way of proposed lack of funding, critical items including our nation’s cargo preference laws and the Title XI shipbuilding loan guarantee program are being attacked, and those aren’t the only maritime issues in the crosshairs. Our members’ livelihoods depend on a number of these programs, and that’s more than enough motivation for us to stay on top of these battles for as long as it takes to win. Additionally, I want to thank all SIU members who’ve signed up for the new anti-piracy campaign at the “Save Our Seafarers” web site. If you haven’t already done so, please take a minute and visit the site. It is prominently linked on our own home page, and we have member-accessible computers set up in all of our union halls as well as at headquarters and in Piney Point. Details about the campaign appear elsewhere in this edition. But I have to add one thing about this ongoing struggle against Somali piracy. I forget who first made the comparison, but it really drove home an eye-opening point: Can you imagine what the world’s reaction would be if 800 airline passengers and flight crews were being held hostage in Somalia? I have a strong hunch it wouldn’t be allowed to drag on, yet that’s exactly what is happening with mariners whose ships were taken over by those waterborne terrorists. Like so many other aspects of our industry, the solution to this problem has to start with political action. That’s the point of “Save Our Seafarers,” and the very early returns are promising. This is literally a life-and-death issue and we are treating it as such. Finally, I encourage the membership to take some time and read about the recent meetings of the Maritime Trades Department executive board. The comments by our guest speakers are very relevant to shipboard employment and your future. Also, the supportive words from the two military commanders who addressed the MTD are nothing short of inspirational. Check it out and be proud of the job you’re doing as part of America’s “fourth arm of defense.” Volume 73, Number 4 April 2011 Pasha Hawaii Orders New RO/RO Aker Philadelphia to Build Additional Tankers A new car carrier and two new tankers are on the horizon following separate announcements by SIU-contracted Pasha Hawaii Transport Lines and Aker Philadelphia Shipyard. Pasha recently signed an agreement with Pascagoula, Miss.-based VT Halter Marine for construction of a roll-on/roll-off car and truck carrier that will join the trade routes between the West Coast and Hawaii. The ship is slated for delivery in 2013, and the agreement includes an option for a third vessel. “Building a second ship has always been part of our organization’s plan,” said George Pasha IV, CEO of Pasha Hawaii. “The level of enthusiasm and customer support we received when we deployed our first vessel was well beyond our expectations. Our second vessel will both better serve the Hawaii/mainland market and also provide increased frequency and superior reliability.” The current Pasha vessel, the SIU-crewed MV Jean Anne, was launched in 2005. It was named “Ship of the Year” that year by American Ship Review, and the vessel and its crew since then have been credited by the Chamber of Shipping of America with awards for outstanding ship- board safety as well as an excellent environmental record. Meanwhile, agreements have been signed in Philadelphia for the construction of two new vessels. Aker Philadelphia Shipyard has partnered with the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania on the project, which will create the seventeenth and eighteenth vessels to be built at the Philadelphia site. The two new vessels will feature state-of-theart design and technology in an effort to maximize efficiency, according to a shipyard spokesman. Additionally, union workers at the shipyard are celebrating a new collective bargaining agreement that allows shipbuilders and other employees to get started as soon as possible on the new tankers. The Philadelphia Metal Trades Department, which is an organization that encompasses 11 different unions at the shipyard, had a contract set to expire on Jan. 31. Without a new contract, work on the new ships may have been delayed. However, management and the Philadelphia Metal Trades Department’s representatives reached an agreement. The new pact was ratified Jan. 18 and will continue to be in effect until January 31, 2015. Pasha’s MV Jean Ann (above) was launched in 2005. Union workers at Aker Philadelphia Shipyard recently approved a new contract. MSC Accepts Delivery of Newest T-AKE Ship USNS Washington Chambers Becomes 11th Vessel in Class The newest addition to the SIU Government Services Division fleet, the USNS Washington Chambers, was delivered to the U.S. Navy’s Military Sealift Command (MSC) on Feb. 23 in San Diego. The dry cargo/ammunition ship is the 11th vessel in the Lewis and Clark class. Like its sister ships, the Washington Chambers was built at the National Steel and Shipbuilding Company (NASSCO) yard. According to MSC, the vessel is designed to minimize operating costs as well as have the capability to quickly change from mission to mission with state-of-the-art modular cargo holding and handling systems. For example, the ship can carry ammunition or food to members of the armed forces overseas and then quickly offload and reload food aid for other parts of the world. This allows the vessel to be at the disposal of the MSC quickly and in varying capacities, the agency pointed out. Construction began on the Washington Chambers in March 2009 followed by sea trials in January 2011 and finally its delivery in February. The ship honors Navy Capt. Washington Irving Chambers, a pioneer in Navy aviation who arranged the world’s first airplane flight from a warship Nov. 14, 1910. The flight confirmed the potential for carrier-based naval aviation. During a brief ceremony at the shipyard when the vessel was delivered, Navy Capt. Jerome Hamel, commander Sealift Logistics Command Pacific, stated, “This ship represents the continued growth that MSC is experiencing and our continued commitment in support of our Navy.” The vessel has a projected 40-year service life. Other Seafarers-crewed ships in the class include the USNS Lewis and Clark, USNS Sacagawea, USNS Alan Shepard, USNS Richard E. Byrd, USNS Robert E. Peary, USNS Amelia Earhart, USNS Carl Brashear, USNS Wally Schirra, USNS Matthew Perry and USNS Charles Drew. The SIU on line: www.seafarers.org The Seafarers LOG (ISSN 1086-4636) is published monthly by the Seafarers International Union; Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU, AFLCIO; 5201 Auth Way; Camp Springs, MD 20746. Telephone (301) 899-0675. Periodicals postage paid at Southern Maryland 20790-9998. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to the Seafarers LOG, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. Communications Director, Jordan Biscardo; Managing Editor/Production, Jim Guthrie; Assistant Editor, Paddy Lehane; Photographer, Mike Hickey; Administrative Support, Misty Dobry. Copyright © 2011 Seafarers International Union, AGLIWD. All Rights Reserved. The Seafarers International Union engaged an environmentally friendly printer for the production of this newspaper. 2 Seafarers LOG The USNS Washington Chambers is manned in the unlicensed slots by members of the SIU Government Services Division. April 2011 �63932_Newsletter:January 08 3/24/2011 5:54 PM Page 3 MSC Commander Rear Adm. Mark Buzby (right in photo at left), pictured with SIU VP Government Services Kermett Mangram, said “national security and national defense depend on” civilian mariners. In the photo above, MTD President Michael Sacco (right) thanks U.S. Rep. Charlie Rangel (D-N.Y.) (center) for his remarks to the board as MTD VP Scott Winter (left) and others applaud the congressman’s supportive comments. MTD Speakers Underscore Vital Need For Robust U.S. Maritime Industry Guest speakers from a wide range of government and industry organizations addressed the AFL-CIO Maritime Trades Department (MTD) executive board in late February, and all expressed sincere appreciation for American maritime labor. Representatives from the military, the Obama administration, labor and business spoke at the board’s winter meeting Feb. 24-25 in Orlando, Fla. They discussed the U.S. Merchant Marine’s crucial role in national and economic security; the escalating scourge of piracy; state-level attacks on workers’ rights; the ongoing need for political action, and more. Their remarks helped MTD officials sharpen plans aimed at improving the lives of maritime workers as well as those of all working families. SIU President Michael Sacco also serves as president of the MTD, a constitutionally mandated department of the AFL-CIO. The MTD consists of 23 international unions and 21 port maritime councils in the United States and Canada representing more than 5 million members. Kicking off the meeting, Sacco said the MTD’s mission boils down to one word: jobs. He said the entire labor movement must be fully engaged in bringing back jobs to the U.S. and keeping the good jobs that are already here. He acknowledged that solutions aren’t easy, but added, “They are out there, and it’s up to us to deliver them.” For example, he cited the need to change tax laws so they reward businesses that remain in the U.S. Sacco also encouraged the board members and guests not to lose sight of labor’s many accomplishments during the previous 12 months, notwithstanding the serious challenges confronting workers. “Right at the top of that list is the strong partnership we continue to enjoy with our military,” he stated. “That’s a great working relationship and it’s reflected in part by the recent ten-year extension of the Maritime Security Program. That, brothers and sisters, is a job-sustaining program, and it’s a great victory for many of the unions represented here today.” In order of appearance, the following guest speakers addressed the board Feb. 24: U.S. Maritime Administrator David Matsuda; World Shipping Council President Chris Koch; Jeffrey Lantz, director, commercial regulations and standards, U.S. Coast Guard; Senator Mark Begich (D-Alaska) (via video); Mark Ruge, counsel, American Maritime Partnership; and Dale Lumme, national executive director, Navy League of the United States. The next day, the following individuals spoke to the board: Rear Adm. Mark Buzby, commander, U.S. Military Sealift Command; Maj. Gen. James Hodge, commander, U.S. Army Combined Arms Support Command; U.S. Deputy Secretary of Labor Seth Harris (via video); Jim Gordon, president, Cape Wind Associates; Rear Adm. Kevin Cook, director, prevention policy, U.S. Coast Guard; U.S. Rep. Russ Carnahan (D-Mo.); Matt Paxton, president, Shipbuilders Council of America; Hawaii Gov. Neil Abercrombie (via video); and U.S. Rep. Charlie Rangel (D-N.Y.). The board approved a number of policy statements mapping out strategies for the months ahead and expressing support for our troops and first responders. See pages 9-13 for detailed coverage of the MTD meeting International Groups Launch New Anti-Piracy Campaign Maersk Alabama Turns Back Another Attempted Attack In response to the rising number and increasing barbarity of pirate attacks in the Indian Ocean and Gulf of Aden, international maritime groups have joined together to call on governments to do more to protect mariners. Shipowners and seafarers are reaching out to citizens throughout the world to push their respective governments to act now and show the political will to resolve the growing Somali piracy crisis before it strangles world trade and before more innocent mariners are harmed. The SOS or “Save Our Seafarers” campaign, launched in early March by the International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF, to which the SIU is affiliated), the Baltic and International Maritime Council (BIMCO), the International Chamber of Shipping (ICS), the International Shipping Federation (ISF), Intercargo and INTERTANKO, is aimed at encouraging millions of people around the world to heap pressure on their national governments to crack down on piracy. Two components of the campaign are high-profile advertisements that have been published in major newspapers and magazines around the world, and the web site www.saveourseafarers.com, through which visitors may quickly contact their elected political representatives. The ongoing problem of piracy again hit close to home for the SIU on March 8 when the Seafarers-crewed Maersk Alabama – famous for its April 2009 saga when pirates tried to take over the ship – was approached by April 2011 another group of would-be attackers while the vessel was en route to Kenya. In the most recent episode, the pirates turned away after warning shots were fired by an embarked security team, among other defensive steps. SIU members at union halls across the country have stepped up to support the new campaign, logging on to the SOS web site and using it to write to President Obama and ask for increased anti-piracy measures by the United States. The SIU also continues to speak out on behalf of all mariners – SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel, who serves as chair of the ITF Seafarers’ Section, is playing an important role in the new campaign, as is SIU Executive Vice President Augie Tellez, who represented the union at a mid-March hearing on piracy conducted by the U.S. House of Representatives as well as at an anti-piracy session hosted by the U.N in New York. “The world has lost control of piracy,” Heindel stated. “Each day it’s becoming more savage and more widespread. All the Arabian Gulf and most of the Indian Ocean are now effectively lawless. Yet there is a way that control can be regained: by actively going after pirates, stopping them and prosecuting them. Not this ludicrous situation of taking away their guns and setting them free to strike again. “The burden of dealing with pirates is being borne by a few nations and the burden of actually taking them to court by even fewer,” he continued. “We have repeated- See Page 24 For related coverage ly requested stronger intervention by all governments, including the flag-of-convenience states that are reaping the profits from so much of the world’s shipping fleet without meeting any of the obligations. If we daily allow a few thousand thugs to [continue with] the danger and violence then we will soon reach a point where there is no alternative but to stop putting people and ships within their reach – with all the effects that could have on world trade and oil and food prices.” Indeed, the ITF in late February said it is moving closer to having to advise seafarers to consider avoiding working in all the affected areas – including the Indian Ocean. Meanwhile, the SOS campaign has six specific aims: ■ Reducing the effectiveness of the easily-identifiable pirate mother ships. ■ Authorizing naval forces to detain pirates and deliver them for prosecution and punishment. ■ Fully criminalizing all acts of piracy and intent to commit piracy under national laws in accordance with their mandatory duty to cooperate to suppress piracy under international conventions. ■ Increasing naval assets available to fight piracy. ■ Providing greater protection and support for seafarers. ■ Tracing and criminalizing the organizers and financiers behind the criminal networks. “Pirates are getting stronger, more violent and richer every day as a result of inertia by governments,” said ITF General Secretary David Cockroft. “On behalf of all the major shipping organizations, we’re calling for help See Maritime, Page 4 Seafarers LOG 3 �63932_Newsletter:January 08 3/24/2011 5:54 PM Page 4 One of the fishermen is helped aboard the Horizon Producer. Two individuals were stranded for days while their boat was taking on water. Horizon Producer Rescues Stranded Fishermen On the morning of Jan. 29, 2011, the SIU-contracted Horizon Producer departed San Juan, Puerto Rico, en route to Jacksonville, Fla., on what the crew thought would be a routine trip. However, the routine turned to excitement when the mariners saw two stranded fishermen adrift in the water several hundred miles off the Puerto Rican coast. According to Electrician Angel Hernandez, during the afternoon, he noticed that the Producer was veering off course. Investigating, Hernandez found that a serious situation was developing. A mariner on wheel watch observed something unusual in the water. As the vessel got closer, the crew realized that they had an emergency on their hands. Two men in a small boat were flailing their arms, seemingly desperate for someone to notice them. The Producer made its way towards the craft, which turned out to be an 18foot fishing boat. Because of the disparity in size between the vessels the Producer couldn’t get close enough without its wake causing the smaller boat to float even farther away. The Producer then sent out a line which the fishermen tied to their boat. The two fishermen were pulled in and climbed aboard. The crew provided them with water, food, and medical attention as they listened to their story. The fishermen had been stranded in shark-infested waters for three days. Apparently, the men were on a short fishing trip off the coast of Aguadilla, P.R., when they got caught in a minor squall. They ran out of fuel and, worse yet, began taking on water. And to add to the terror, at one point a whale emerged Maritme Groups Launch Campaign To Combat Piracy Continued from Page 3 from governments to tackle this human and economic terror being inflicted upon innocent seafarers. We hope that by working together and encouraging support from the global community we can ease the current crisis of Somali piracy.” “Politicians don’t realize the severity of this crisis,” added Intercargo Chairman Nicky Pappadakis. “Escalation affects our seafarers first and foremost, but the potential effect on world trade and regional stability will affect us all. Governments can no longer afford to simply to deter and disrupt the pirates.” In jointly announcing the SOS campaign, the ITF and the other aforementioned organizations pointed out, “Merchant ships are being attacked daily, running a gauntlet of gunfire and rocket-propelled grenade attacks from armed gangs of Somali pirates. Over 800 seafarers are currently held hostage on their hijacked ships. Subjected to physical and psychological abuse for months at a time, they are held ransom for millions of dollars. Yet even when caught red-handed by naval forces, 80 percent of pirates are released to attack again. Why? Because the world’s politicians don’t realize the severity of this critical situation. The governments give the orders. The governments hold the key to resolving this crisis. But they seem unwilling to face reality and act. Their brief to the naval forces is simply to deter and disrupt, unless it involves a national interest. “Enough is enough.” See Page 24 For Related Coverage 4 Seafarers LOG nearby and nearly overturned the boat. Their rescue by the SIU crew, to the fishermen and their families, was an act of extreme heroism and bravery. But to the crew, it was all part of the code that all mariners live by. “That’s the way of a seaman’s life,” said Hernandez. “If you see somebody in danger, that’s your first obligation: to save another’s life. We all knew it was part of our duty.” The two fishermen called their families from aboard the ship, causing an emotional scene. The Producer continued on to Jacksonville, where the fishermen were given further medical attention and then were returned home. For Hernandez, providing assistance to the stranded men was the only possible option. “It’s a thing of honor,” said Hernandez. “It’s the unwritten rule of the sea. If we see somebody in distress, we try to save them. It’s an obligation to humanity to do anything you can to help another human being.” SIU members aboard the ship at the time of the rescue were Recertified Bosun Paul Dornes, AB Kurt Bruer, AB Frank Hamm III, AB Curtis Dunlap, Sr., AB Hector Barnes, AB James Rush, Jr., AB Angelo Wilcox, Sr., AB Jackie Jones, AB Jack Gainers, Electrician John Walsh, GUDE Aresha Rivers, Oiler Milton Israel, Oiler Ramon Corretjer, Oiler Terry Harmon, Oiler Guiomar Rancel, Steward Baker Jerome Jordan, Chief Cook Juan Vallejo Hernandez, SA Dietre Jackson, SA Duane Washington, Apprentice Jatniel Aguilera Santiago, Apprentice Khadim Robinson, Apprentice Frances Bautista and Apprentice Nathan Graddick. Members Examine, Approve SIU’s Financial Records for 2010 The union’s constitution calls for an annual review of the SIU’s financial records for the prior year. In accordance with that mandate, a committee of seven rank-and-file Seafarers recently examined and approved the SIU’s financial records for 2010. Elected by their fellow members to serve on this year’s committee were John Haller (chairman), Charles David James, David James, John Reid, Kevin Quinlan, Nelson Poe and Thommie Hampton. Those Seafarers were elected at the March membership meeting in Piney Point, Md. They subsequently met at SIU headquarters in Camp Springs, Md., the rest of that same week, where they studied all of the appropriate records and found them in good order. Again in accordance with the SIU Constitution, the committee’s report will be read in all ports at the union’s monthly membership meetings and presented for membership approval. The report formally has been presented to the SIU secretary-treasurer. Article X, Section 14-c of the SIU Constitution lists the duties of the annual financial committee along with rules and procedures for electing the committee. Members of the financial committee join headquarters officials after finishing their report. Pictured from left to right are (seated) Nelson Poe, John Reid, David James, Thommie Hampton, (standing) Asst. VP Ambrose Cucinotta, John Haller, Kevin Quinlan, Sec-Treas. David Heindel and Charles David James. April 2011 �63932_Newsletter_X:January 08 3/25/2011 8:06 PM Page 5 Unions Urge Stronger Rules Protecting U.S. Mariners Defending Against Piracy The SIU recently joined with several other maritime unions in urging the U.S. Coast Guard to institute stronger rules protecting American mariners who may need to use force while defending themselves and their vessels against piracy. Jointly submitting comments to the Coast Guard in late February were the SIU; American Maritime Officers; International Organization of Masters, Mates and Pilots (MM&P); Marine Engineers’ Beneficial Association; Marine Firemen’s Union; and Sailors’ Union of the Pacific. The agency had requested input on its policy regarding “standard rules for the use of force for self-defense of vessels of the United States.” The unions pointed out that current guidance, issued in June 2009, “actually allows less force to be used than American common law and the statutory law of most states.” Therefore, they said, the Coast Guard “should develop standard rules for the use of force for self-defense of vessels of the United States when on the high seas that permit the use of deadly force by any means, including armed resistance, when the master, mariner, embarked personnel including security personnel, or individuals who use force, or authorizes the use of force, reasonably believes the vessel or a mariner is being subjected to an act of piracy.” Comparing the current maritime regulations in Port Security Advisory (PSA) 3-09 to long-established U.S. laws governing shore-side conduct, the unions wrote, “Since the general introduction of firearms, the common law has recognized that one is not ‘required to retreat when he is assailed in a place where he has a right to be.’ Likewise, one may defend his domicile or his property to the extent of taking life, when necessary in defense of his property. Although any American would be justified in using deadly force to protect his home or property, [the current guideline] advises that only non-deadly force should be used in defense of the vessel or in defense of property the master and crew are authorized to protect.” The union comments continued, “Of course, it is impossible for a mariner to retreat from attack when he is at sea. At the same time, the vessel is the mariner’s domicile and contains all the property with which the mariner travels. The master is charged with the protection of both the vessel and a ship’s cargo – often valuable military and humanitarian aid owned by the U.S. government. Faced with these realities, mariners or embarked security forces must be able to use deadly force in defense of the vessel; if pirates are permitted to board a vessel with only non-lethal resistance because the pirates were not actively threatening the crew with imminent death or great bodily harm, it will often be too late for the vessel and too late for the crew.” Additionally, the unions pointed out what they described as a significant omission in current law. Specifically, left unaddressed is the use of deadly force when a mariner has a reasonable fear of kidnapping. The way the existing guidance is worded, “a mariner who reasonably fears he will be kidnapped for ransom is not entitled to use deadly force,” the unions noted. “This is a serious oversight because ransoming vessels and crew is the main motivation behind pirate attacks off the Somalia coast. Indeed, when the Maersk Alabama was attacked in 2009, the pirates were unable to seize the ship due to the valiant efforts of the crew; however, the attackers kidnapped the master as they fled the vessel.” Elsewhere in their submission, the unions reiterated their shared position that the suppression of piracy “is primarily a government responsibility using embarked military security detachments under rules of engagement enforced by military command and control procedures.” Moreover, they said that in the event that a U.S. shipowner, mariner or security personnel face civil or criminal liability in a foreign jurisdiction for their lawful use of force, the U.S. government “must be prepared with diplomatic and legal assistance to ensure U.S. law is applied to actions taken by U.S. ships.” Coalition Slates 2nd Annual Maritime ‘Sail-In’ for May The U.S. Maritime Coalition has announced plans for its second annual Congressional “Sail-In,” an effort to educate members of Congress on the importance of the American maritime industry. The event is scheduled to be conducted on Capitol Hill on May 4, 2011. This year’s Sail-In aims to build on the success of the 2010 event, in which several dozen maritime industry representatives from all over the country – including a number of SIU officials – took to the Capitol and met with members of Congress and their staff. Several maritime groups are expected to attend this year, among them international and domestic carriers, terminal operators, and maritime unions again including the SIU. The event will inform members of Congress and their staffs about the importance of pro-maritime legislation and programs, as well reiterate the impact the maritime industry has on the economy and national security. U.S. Navy Vice Adm. Albert J. Herberger (Ret.), a former U.S. maritime administrator and current head of the volunteer organizing group, said that for last year’s event, “We had folks from 20 states, 48 congressional districts, 28 companies, nine unions and labor organizations, and 10 related associations. That’s a powerful message to Congress.” According to the coalition, at this year’s event, the stakes have been raised by a changing political climate. A large class of freshman congressional representatives including 20 newcomers on the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, as well as the loss of several longtime friends of the maritime industry means that it’s now more important than ever to mobilize and stand up for a strong maritime industry. “The meetings will entail informing Congressional leaders of the American maritime industry’s importance to the economic and national security of the United States, of the important role the industry plays in supporting American troops and America’s defense mission overseas, and of the thousands of American jobs created and maintained throughout the industry,” the coalition noted in a news release. For more information on the Sail-In, as well as registration instructions, visit www.maritimeindustrysailin.com The event is open to any and all whose lives are affected by the maritime industry. U.S. Navy Vice Adm. Albert J. Herberger (Ret.) addresses attendees at last year’s event. April 2011 A tugboat is among debris in Ofunato, Japan, following a massive earthquake and subsequent tsunami. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Matthew M. Bradley.) Japanese Ports Recovering Vessels Alter Routes Due to Issues at Nuclear Plant As with the overall damage caused by the earthquake and tsunami that struck the Pacific Ocean near northeastern Japan on March 11, the maritime-specific destruction will take a long time to fully quantify. However, within 10 days of the tragedy, a number of stricken Japanese ports had reopened, according to the Japanese Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism. One of the hardest-hit areas, the Port of Sendai-Shiogama, had reopened only for vessels carrying relief supplies. The nation’s two largest ports (Tokyo and Yokohama) were not directly affected by the earthquake and tsunami. Meanwhile, despite the progress at some ports, SIU-crewed ships and other vessels continued to alter routes and schedules due to port availability issues and, more significantly, radiation from nuclear power plants near Fukushima. The union remains in close contact with SIU-contracted operators including Maersk Line, Limited and APL and with the U.S. Maritime Administration (MarAd) to help ensure mariner and vessel safety. Additionally, the union’s Government Services Division sent precautionary information to CIVMARS. The union also reached out to officials at the All Japan Seamen’s Union, offering condolences and support. On March 17, the U.S. Maritime Administration issued an advisory to U.S. vessels transiting to or from Japan or in waters in the vicinity of the northeast coast of the island of Honshu. Among other points, the advisory pointed out that the U.S. Department of Energy “and other technical experts in the U.S. government have reviewed scientific and technical information collected from assets in Japan, as well as what the government of Japan has disseminated. Consistent with the results of that review, NRC guidelines and guidance issued by the U.S. ambassador to Japan, the U.S. Coast Guard recommends, as a precaution, that vessels avoid transiting within 50 miles (80 kilometers) of the Fukushima nuclear power plant…. Mariners are advised that this recommendation should be considered a minimum distance…. Prudent trackline planning should incorporate current wind and weather conditions.” Within a few days after the earthquake and tsunami, the Japanese coast guard released information on several cargo ships that grounded at ports including Ishinomaki, Kashima and Kamaishi. All the crews were reported safe, as were mariners aboard several other ships that initially were drifting in or near those ports and others. The agency also reported that four Indonesian fishermen and their boat had gone missing. The tsunami also affected Hawaii and the West Coast. The SIU hall in Honolulu closed due to flooding on the islands, though it wasn’t damaged. And the Seafarers-contracted cruise ship Pride of America, which is based in Hawaii, safely sailed away before the surges hit Oahu, Maui and the Big Island on March 11. Seafarers LOG 5 �63932_Newsletter_X:January 08 3/25/2011 8:06 PM Page 6 SIU members and officials from Houston (including those pictured above) took part in a mid-March demonstration against budget cuts that would harm police officers, firefighters and teachers. Seafarer and Green Bay resident John Ingold (right) in late February marched with fellow trade unionists in Wisconsin to support workers’ rights. Governors Train Sights on Workers’ Rights Union Members Rally in Wisconsin and Elsewhere to Defend Working Families Newly elected governors, many of whom gained power by defeating labor-backed opponents during the midterm elections last November, appear to be dubbing unions their number one adversary, according to the AFL-CIO. These state-level managers are falsely blaming middleclass workers for their states’ fiscal shortfalls (44 states and the District of Columbia are projecting budget deficits for fiscal year 2012), while at the same time giving huge tax breaks to corporations that supported them during their campaigns, the federation recently reported. As one communication from the labor federation put it, they are taking dead aim on union members’ pensions, health care benefits, wages and collective bargaining rights. Governors Scott Walker (Wisconsin), John Kasich (Ohio), Chris Christie (New Jersey) and Mitch Daniels (Indiana) over the last month have become household names of sorts because of their no-holdsbarred onslaughts against unions and working families. Walker, however, drew the earliest and most attention. On Feb. 11, he proposed a now-infamous budget repair bill that called for deep cuts in spending for education and local government services. His bill also would eliminate 1,200 Wisconsin state jobs, call for increased contributions from workers for their benefits and strip public employees of their collective bargaining rights. According to several published reports, Walker during an interview said he hoped that by “pushing the envelope” and setting an aggressive example, Wisconsin might inspire more states to curb the power of unions. “In that regard, I hope I’m inspiration just as much as others are an inspiration to me,” he said. Elsewhere, reported the same sources, a Washington-based extremist group said it was trying to use its lists of activists to turn out supporters for a variety of bills aimed at cutting the power of unions — not just in Wisconsin, but in Tennessee, Indiana and Ohio as well. Walker’s proposals were met with rejection from the outset as thousands upon thousands of union workers and ordinary citizens in Wisconsin took to the streets to voice their objections. They were later joined in solidarity by more union members and supporters from throughout the country in the fight of their lives. Despite this outcry, the measure made its way through the Wisconsin House and headed to the Republican-controlled Senate where it was a shoe-in for passage. Most of the state’s 14 Democratic senators, in an attempt to force backers of the bill to negotiate a compromise, boycotted a vote on the measure and left the state. Unmoved by those tactics and ignoring his state’s statues which required that a quorum of 20 senators be present for a vote on the issue, Walker and his supporters in the Senate passed an amended version of measure, 18-1. Walker signed the bill into law March 11, but Dane County Wisconsin Judge Maryann Sumi a week later prevented the measure from taking effect by issuing a temporary restraining order. Sumi’s action was in response to a lawsuit filed by the local Democratic district attorney charging that Republican lawmakers violated the state’s open meetings law by hastily convening a special committee before the Senate passed the bill. The ruling also raised the possibility that the Wisconsin legislature may have to vote again to pass the bill. Opponents are hopeful that some concessions will be made during this process should it come to fruition. As of press time for the Seafarers LOG, no resolutions to the matter had been made; however, a hearing on Judge Sumi’s injunction was scheduled for March 29. “What Scott Walker did was take away the ability of teachers to bargain for smaller classrooms, for firefighters to bargain for better safety, for nurses to bargain for better healthcare,” AFL-CIO President Rich Trumka said March 18 on MSNBC. “He upset over 80 years of history and collective bargaining in that state and, quite frankly, they did it in the middle of the night, which was a true affront to democracy and our rights.” Ohio Governor Kasich, who introduced his budget March 15 calling for $1.9 billon in public service sector cuts, apparently is taking a similar approach to Walker’s when it comes to workers’ rights. The federation charges that he wants to limit collective bargaining rights for public sector unions and require them to take pay cuts and kick in more for pensions and health care. Kasich said the changes in labor rules—the state Senate approved a measure March 2, and the House is expected to follow suit—are necessary to shore up Ohio’s struggling economy and help close a two-year budget deficit estimated at $8 billion. In New Jersey, Governor Christie unveiled his $29.3 billion budget in February that relies almost entirely on spending cuts to reverse the declining fortunes of a state he sees as battered by the recession and choking on its tax burden. To rein in the deficit that he said was nearing the $11 billion mark, Christie called for the layoffs of 1,300 state workers, the closure of state psychiatric institutions, an $820 million cut in aid to public schools, and nearly a half-billion dollars less in aid to towns and cities. Breaking one of his own cam- paign pledges, the governor also suspended until May of this year a popular property-tax rebate program. In Indiana, one of Governor Daniels’ first acts upon taking the office in 2005 was to use his executive power to eliminate collective bargaining rights for state employees. Republicans in the Indiana Senate currently are pushing socalled right-to-work legislation, which would enable private sector employees to decide not to join or pay dues to a union, even if their colleagues agree to do so. Indiana does not face the budget troubles of many other states, but the fight over the right-to-work measure symbolizes what could be next for organized labor if it loses collective bargaining rights in other states. Although the eyes many Americans are trained on the situations as they develop in the foregoing states, AFL-CIO Director of Media Relations Alison Omens says that corporate-backed politicians are clearly gunning for working people in every state across the country. Recently, she said, governors and legislators in state after state have taken aim at their own constituents with increasingly blatant attacks on education, public services, and working people’s voices. Omens said that it’s not just the rights of workers to collectively bargain for a middle-class life that is under attack. We’re also seeing a nationwide push to take away the rights of voters. For example, New Hampshire State Representative Gregory Sorg recently introduced a bill that would eliminate the right of New Hampshire’s college students to cast a ballot where they go to school. Sorg’s argument against the ability of students to vote where they go to school was not based on their residency, but on their habit for voting for liberals. Moreover, “paycheck deception” bills, which would silence workers’ voices in the political process, have been or soon will be introduced in nearly two dozen states; and prevailing wage laws that protect workers and communities from dishonest contractors’ bids on taxpayer-funded construction projects have been targeted for repeal by governors and legislatures in 19 states. Even in states where the outcry has not been as publicized, Omens said working families have stepped up to express their dismay to lawmakers who would rather play partisan games than create jobs. Working people from across the country are preparing for rallies on April 4 under the slogan “We Are One.” Participants will point to Dr. Martin Luther King’s struggle for civil rights and how the movement continues today. Port Personnel Train in Piney Point SIU Safety directors, patrolmen and port secretaries recently completed computer and safety training at the union-affiliated Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md. The training took place in two separate sessions, March 14-17. The first group included (photo at left above) Brian Kinard, Ashley Nelson, Sam Spain, Mark von Siegel, James Brown, Warren Asp, Monte Burgett, Chris Mercado, Kevin Marchand, Ryan Palmer and Abdul Al-Omari, joined in this photo by SIU VP Contracts George Tricker, Plans Administrator Maggie Bowen, retired Paul Hall Center Safety Director Jimmy Hanson and Paul Hall Center Instructors Joe Zienda and John Dobson. The second group, shown in the other photo, included Don Thornton, Lisa Clark, Terry Montgomery, Clara Rampersadsing, Benita Evans, Adrienne Nash, Brian Guiry, Karen Shuford, Judy Benton, Sheila Burton, Diana Marrone, Linda Kluska, Betty Wierschem, Jim Ott and Amy Aud, pictured with Paul Hall Center VP Don Nolan and Bowen. 6 Seafarers LOG April 2011 �63932_Newsletter:January 08 3/24/2011 5:54 PM Page 7 USNS Matthiesen Delivers for ‘Deep Freeze’ The SIU-crewed tanker USNS Richard G. Matthiesen recently participated in a challenging and vital mission to resupply an outpost in Antarctica. The mission, dubbed Operation Deep Freeze, was a race against time and the elements to help provide a year’s worth of supplies for more than 1,000 people based at the McMurdo Station. Operation Deep Freeze is a U.S. Air Force-led operation that occurs once a year within a very small window of opportunity. The U.S. Navy’s Military Sealift Command (MSC) plays a central role in transporting the desperately needed supplies as do the mariners that serve aboard MSC-contracted ships. The need for a fast and efficient group of Seafarers was paramount to keeping the outpost up and running and allowing the scientists and support personnel at McMurdo to continue their work. SIU members aboard the Ocean Shipholdings Inc.-operated Matthiesen heeded the call and delivered fuel to the base – enough to keep the operation running for a year and effectively providing life support for the people stationed there. The Matthiesen delivered more than 5 million gallons of gas, diesel, and jet fuel to the station from late January to early February. The mission has been supported by U.S. Merchant Mariners since the McMurdo Station was founded in 1956. Every year, crews of civilian seafarers do their part by bringing supplies, and this year turned out to be no different. The voyage takes place during the summer months in the Southern Hemisphere. However, despite the relatively warmer temperatures, the tanker still had to follow behind an icebreaker to get its cargo through the difficult passage, according to MSC. This year’s mission also marks the last time a Champion-class T-5 tanker will be used in support of Operation Deep Freeze. The Matthiesen was scheduled for decommissioning in mid-March. “This is the last McMurdo Station port call for a T-5 tanker, a milestone in 26 years of dedicated tanker support by MSC, the Champion-class tankers and the U.S. merchant seamen who crew them in support of Operation Deep Freeze,” said Navy Rear Adm. Mark H. Buzby, commander of MSC. “This marks the end of a proud era for the Champion-class tankers.” Thanks in part to the support of civilian mariners, the scientists and others at the McMurdo Station can look forward to another year of their important work. The Seafarers-crewed USNS Richard G. Matthiesen transported important cargo to Antarctica. CMPI 610 Negotiations Continue The SIU Government Services Division, the U.S. Military Sealift Command (MSC) and the Military Sealift Fleet Support Command (MSFSC) are continuing negotiations on the Civilian Marine Personnel Instruction 610. The negotiations started more than a year ago, in January 2010, and most recently continued in early March at SIU headquarters in Camp Springs, Md. At the most recent negotiations, the parties were assisted by two unlicensed CIVMARS – both experienced members of the engine department. West Coast CIVMAR Floyd Fullilove and East Coast CIVMAR Greg Woods provided support and technical expertise throughout at the CMPI 610 negotiations. A more-detailed article and photographs of this-week long negotiation will appear in the May edition of the Seafarers LOG. CMPI 610 covers the hours of work and premium pay rules applicable to all CIVMARS. For the most part consensus has been reached on general work rules, and the work rules specific to the deck and engine departments. All consensus agreements will be reviewed at the end of the negotiations to determine if, as a result of any changes, CIVMARS have experienced more than a minor unintended negative impact. The rules will also be reviewed to ensure that CIVMARS have not experienced an unintended gain. The MSC and CIVMARS are also protected as a result of an agreement which allows the parties to study the economic impact of the rules for four years after implementation. As previously reported, all of the negotiators continue focusing on helping ensure that the new Instruction will be as clearly written as possible and, as a result, will be applied consistently on all vessels throughout the fleet. Along with uniformity and clearness in the revised document, the union is focused on ensuring that as work rules are modified, the overtime and penalty wages of CIVMARS are protected to the greatest possible extent. Maersk Constellation Resumes Voyage Port Agent Neil Dietz (right), pictured with then-U.S. Rep. (now governor of Hawaii) Neil Abercrombie at a 2008 Maritime Trades Department meeting, spent 25 years with the SIU. Port Agent Dietz Retires Longtime SIU Honolulu Port Agent Neil Dietz barely needed a fraction of a second to consider what he’ll miss most as he retires after a 25-year career. “The members, beyond a doubt,” said Dietz, who retired in late March and immediately started working for Hawaii Gov. Neil Abercrombie as chief negotiator for the state. “We have the most fascinating people in the world in our union. I came to work for the SIU as an outsider, and it takes Seafarers a little while to accept people from the outside. “But once they trust you and take you into their hearts,” Dietz continued, “you’re their friend forever. It’s a hallmark of this industry that you stay friends with people you may not see for a few years at a time. That’s what I have enjoyed the most and I’m certain what I’ll miss the most.” Although new to the maritime industry, Dietz was no stranger to organized labor when he came aboard with the SIU in 1986. He had been a rank-and-file member of the Amalgamated Transit Union, and later was elected as a local official and then as president of a central labor council in the Midwest. He started working for the SIU in April 2011 Seattle and eventually relocated to Honolulu, 15 years ago. “It has been an exciting time here,” said Dietz, 56. SIU Executive Vice President Augie Tellez said Dietz “has been a great asset to our union since his very first days in Seattle. I wish him the absolute best of luck and I know he’ll be a tremendous asset to Neil Abercrombie’s administration.” Reflecting on his time with the union, Dietz credited two late officials for helping him immeasurably: Executive Vice President Joey Sacco and Vice President West Coast George McCartney. Looking ahead, Dietz said his new role working for the state “will be a real change for me because I’m literally switching sides of the table…. I couldn’t make that change for anybody else other than Neil Abercrombie. He has proven how supportive he is of working people. “The SIU has taught me how labor and management can work together,” he added. “We may have differences on contractual matters but we can work those out, and I anticipate taking those lessons I’ve learned into a new arena. I owe my future to the SIU and I understand that.” The SIU crew and AMO officers aboard the Maersk Constellation safely departed the port of Lobito, Angola, following a peculiar detention by Angolan authorities that lasted more than two weeks. The vessel was carrying food aid and ammunition provided by the U.S. government and destined for several African nations. Beginning March 1, the ship was detained in Angola due to a perceived customs documentation issue that eventually was clarified. The vessel sailed again on March 17. SIU headquarters officials stayed in touch with the crew and company throughout the episode. During a phone call, Recertified Bosun Doyle Ellette told SIU President Michael Sacco and Vice President Contracts George Tricker that the mariners remained patient and kept their sense of humor throughout the delay. The bosun also said he and the rest of the crew appreciated the concern and regular communications from Maersk and the union. U.S government entities including the State Department helped resolve the situation. Apparently, Angolan authorities were confused about some of the ship’s cargo, which included ammunition bought by the government of Kenya as well as food aid destined for Rwanda, Angola, Malawi and Mozambique. “Our top concern from the beginning has been the safety of the mariners aboard the Maersk Constellation, and I know the same is true of AMO and Maersk,” said Tricker. “We’re obviously pleased that the ship was able to resume its voyage without further delay, and on behalf of the entire union I applaud the patience and professionalism of the crew.” Maersk Vice President of Labor Relations Ed Hanley thanked SIU and AMO officials for their support and added, “The entire ship’s crew has stood tall and done the U.S. Merchant Marine proud.” SIU crew members aboard the Maersk Constellation during its recent ordeal included (from left) AB Rosalind Sparrow, DEU Oshema Watson, SA Jessica Crockett, Chief Cook Brian Corp, AB Fethanegest Demoz, Recertified Bosun Doyle Ellette, Steward/Baker John Greubel, Electrician Sixin Ling, AB Rickie Zelaya, AB Philip Carlton, AB Pascal Masanilo and SA Abelardo Reyes. Seafarers LOG 7 �63932_Newsletter:January 08 3/24/2011 5:54 PM Page 8 Cargo is loaded aboard the vessel in Baltimore. Students examine the bridge of the union-contracted ship. Seafarers Shine During Ocean Atlas Demo Event Highlights Importance of Strong U.S.-flag Fleet, America’s Cargo Preference Laws The SIU-contracted Ocean Atlas sailed into the spotlight March 14 while its crew performed a demonstration and gave a tour for SIU officials, members of the Maritime Administration, and unlicensed apprentices from the Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md., among many other figures from the maritime industry. SIU Vice President Contracts George Tricker and Port Agent Pat Vandegrift represented the union at the event. The ceremony began with remarks from Intermarine CEO Andre Grikitis, who talked about the importance of maintaining a strong U.S.-flag fleet. “It’s necessary to protect U.S.-flag shipping,” said Grikitis, whose company operates the Ocean Atlas. “It’s vital, not just to the commerce of the United States, but also to the interests of national security as well.” Grikitis went on to thank the crew and wish the more than 20 unlicensed apprentices in attendance good luck with their future careers as merchant mariners. Maritime Administrator David Matsuda was also on hand and discussed the importance of cargo preference, a law designed to ensure that U.S. government property and aid is shipped on U.S.flagged and American-crewed ships. “Whether it’s military cargo supporting our troops in Iraq and Afghanistan or civilian cargo like for the Department of Energy or these items today, it’s critical that they are shipped on a U.S.-flagged ship,” said Matsuda. Former Federal Maritime Commissioner and retired Congresswoman Helen Bentley spoke about the importance of maintaining the fleet, in addition to paying specific attention to the future for young workers. “Young people need jobs, this country needs trade, and this country needs the revenue from American-flag ships,” Bentley affirmed. Following the remarks, a tour was organized for the people in attendance. The Ocean Atlas was gearing up for a run to South America carrying a cargo of cranes for use in a gold mine in the Andes Mountains. The project, negotiated by Intermarine and mining companies since 2008, is financed in part by the Export-Import Bank (Ex-Im). Cargo preference laws insist that certain cargo procured by the Ex-Im Bank must be shipped on U.S.-flag vessels, thus protecting America from being undercut by foreign interests. While watching from the bridge, the unlicensed apprentices witnessed firsthand the work involved in being a merchant mariner on a heavy-lift ship. Captain Steven Lund was quick to answer questions about a life at sea for some of the inquiring apprentices. When asked for advice for someone’s first run as a mariner, Capt. Lund laid out an essential requirement for any seafarer: safety first. “Safety is definitely the most important thing,” Lund said, continuing on to suggest that all workers aboard ask questions about safety Unlicensed apprentices and other guests observe a crane demonstration from the bridge of the Ocean Atlas. 8 Seafarers LOG issues, especially new mariners. For many of the trainees, this was their fist experience on a working ship and their first glimpse at the life of a seafarer. “I’ve never been on a ship before,” said David Leader, an unlicensed apprentice. “Being here, I learned a lot about the different positions you can choose on a ship.” Brion Lanata had a similar sentiment. “It was a lot of fun,” said Lanata. “I saw a lot of the deckhand work that goes on aboard these ships. I honestly don’t know what ship life is like and this is giving me an opportunity to see it. I’m really looking forward to getting out there.” With its demonstration and tour completed without a hitch, the crew of the Ocean Atlas proved an excellent group to show off the capabilities and unique talents of a U.S.-flagged and union-crewed vessel. Pictured from left to right are AMO National Executive VP Bob Kiefer, Intermarine CEO Andre Grikitis, SIU VP Contracts George Tricker, former Congresswoman Helen Bentley, Captain Leo Bonser of Intermarine, Maritime Administrator David Matsuda and Captain Steven Lund. SIU Vice President Contacts George Tricker, Port Agent Pat Vandegrift and Instructor Bernabe Pelingon are pictured with a group of unlicensed apprentices from the Paul Hall Center. Tricker and Vandegrift are standing sixth and seventh from left, respectively, in the middle row, while Pelingon is at far right. April 2011 �63932_Newsletter_X:January 08 3/25/2011 8:07 PM Page 9 2011 AFL-CIO Maritime Trades Department Executive Board Meeting Military Commanders Emphasize Value, Reliability of U.S. Merchant Mariners Navy League Chief: Strong Commercial Fleet ‘More Critical Than Ever’ T wo high-ranking United States military officers and the head of an organization dedicated to promoting American sea services told the AFL-CIO Maritime Trades Department (MTD) executive board that the U.S. Merchant Marine remains a trusted, invaluable partner with the nation’s armed forces. Rear Adm. Mark Buzby, commander of the U.S. Military Sealift Command (MSC), and Maj. Gen. James Hodge, commander of the U.S. Army Combined Arms Support Command, addressed the MTD on Feb. 25, while Dale Lumme, national executive director of the Navy League of the United States, spoke one day earlier. Each of the speakers credited America’s civilian mariners – and their unions – for their reliability, professionalism and dedication. Buzby heads up an agency that is the country’s largest employer of civilian seafarers. He stated, “The professional mariners who are your union brothers and sisters are also the people that I rely on to operate the MSC fleet every day. Sixty percent of our ships are operated by commercial mariners, and I can’t execute that mission without you or without them. National security and national defense depend on it. You are very willing partners in this great mission we have facing us.” Recapping some of the significant activities since he addressed the board a year ago, Buzby cited improvements in work rules covering CIVMARS (including members of the SIU Government Services Division), the use of interest-based bargaining, and the habitability agreement reached with the SIU. He said that after a decade of limited advancement, “I’m very, very encouraged by our progress, and when I go out and talk to our mariners, they are very pleased to see us moving forward.” The commander also said communication between MSC and maritime labor remains open and effective. He noted a recent meeting with maritime union presidents and other officials and said additional gatherings are scheduled, including one set for April. Buzby said that in addition to MSC bringing in new civilian-crewed tonnage such as the T-AKE ships, the double-hulled replacements for the Kaiser-class vessels and a series of high-speed vessels, he anticipates more work being transferred from the Navy to the commercial and CIVMAR fleets. He referred to ships and missions which during the past 40 to 50 years have been moved from the Navy to MSC. Since an early 1970s underway replenishment experiment, he said, “The trust and confidence that’s been established by our crews with the Navy and with DOD has been phenomenal, to the point that we now have 20 different missions that used to be carried out by Navy bluejackets that we now carry out … certainly less expensively but with no loss of effectiveness. There continues to be more and more missions that I get Dale Lumme National Exec. Director Navy League April 2011 Rear Adm. Mark Buzby Commander Military Sealift Command asked to look at to see if we can take on. The Navy gets it and the reason we’re even being asked is because of the trust that’s been established and is maintained every single day by our mariners out there doing the job as beautifully as they do it.” He concluded by explaining that MSC is “a critical element of any operation worldwide where persistent force must be applied and sustained, afloat or ashore. We are MSC and we deliver thanks to the American merchant seaman who makes it happen any time, any ocean, in peace and in war.” Hodge is in charge of the Army’s transportation, logistics and sustainment efforts – missions that are supported by the merchant marine. He told the board, “I think that our partnerships between the Department of Defense and industry are absolutely critical to the military to be able to do its job. Given my experience with the Military Surface Deployment and Distribution Command (SDDC, which he commanded in his previous assignment), I firmly believe there are none better than the maritime industry with DOD and the U.S. Transportation Command (TRANSCOM). The relationship that we have is truly extraordinary and I see no reason why it won’t continue well into the future.” Hodge pointed out that the Army component of TRANSCOM is “responsible for providing strategic sealift, strategic surface lift for our armed forces. In the United States you’re normally talking about truck or rail or barge capabilities, but when you have to go overseas you’re talking about vessels. And what we do at SDDC is garner all the Army requirements to move…. We see those requirements on the horizon and then we go about trying to figure out how we’re going to get them over there. Normally we go to the commercial industry first. “In the last 18 months of my command, there was not a single time that our commercial maritime industry was not able to meet our movement requirements,” he continued. “In other words, for at least 18 months in a row, I did not have to go to Admiral Buzby to activate a Military Sealift Command vessel. I could do it through commercial industry. I think that’s absolutely incredible.” Illustrating the importance of the sealift efforts sustained in part by U.S. mariners, he referred to a documentary put together by two reporters who were embedded for two years with a U.S. platoon in Afghanistan. The platoon was located in what has been labeled as the deadliest place on Earth. Hodge said the film was an “open and honest look at what our soldiers are doing and how they’re living…. Their mission was to clear the valley of insurgents and to gain the trust of the local populace. When you watch something like that, you think about what they’re doing day in and day out, it just Maj. Gen. James Hodge Commander, U.S. Army Combined Arms Support Command makes you realize that there’s really not anything too good for those soldiers. And when I look across the crowd here, I recognize the fact that given your positions, every single one of you were involved in supplying and sustaining that group, that platoon while they did their job for 18 months. You played a huge role in their survival and the job that they did, and I can’t thank you enough.” Lumme reminded the board that the Navy League is a non-profit civilian organization “whose mission is to educate the American people and their leaders about the enduring importance of sea power to a maritime nation, and to support the men and women of the U.S. sea services. Since the Navy League’s founding, in 1902, by President Teddy Roosevelt, the organization has strongly promoted America’s maritime interests through our strong advocacy of all of the maritime industry – to include the U.S.-flag Merchant Marine, the U.S. Coast Guard, the U.S. Marine Corps, and the US Navy.” Lumme described a strong commercial American-flag fleet as “more critical than ever” to the nation’s security. He pointed out that 95 percent of the equipment and supplies required to deploy U.S. forces is delivered by ships manned by U.S. citizen mariners. He also reminded the audience that maritime transportation “contributes more than $11 billion per year directly to the U.S. economy, and hundreds of billions indirectly.” At the heart of that national and economic security are American mariners, Lumme said. “Skilled mariners are more critical than ever to ensuring our ability to sustain U.S. national and global security interests,” he stated. “Union members including shipyard workers, teamsters, longshoremen and other skilled workers have all been active in building and maintaining maritime shipping in support of humanitarian relief operations and sustainment of overseas combat operations.” He also reiterated his organization’s support for vital laws and programs including the Jones Act, the Maritime Security Program and its related Voluntary Intermodal Sealift Agreement, which, he explained, “provides an expanded pool of trained and experienced mariners to crew U.S. government-owned sealift assets, and helps to sustain the U.S. shipbuilding industrial base that is vital to the U.S. Navy. Without these commercial capabilities, the U.S. government will be required to provide significantly more funds to build a replacement fleet and infrastructure while losing the pool of highly qualified mariners needed to sail these vessels.” Moreover, Lumme said the Navy League “supports efforts by the U.S. Coast Guard to expedite the licensing and documentation of merchant mariners while striking a balance between security and commercial maritime interests.” Seafarers LOG 9 �63932_Newsletter:January 08 3/24/2011 5:54 PM Page 10 2011 AFL-CIO Maritime Trades Department Executive Board Meeting Politicians Support Maritime, Working Families A United States Senator, two Congressmen, an administration official and a governor each promised their ongoing support for the goals and aspirations of the U.S. maritime industry Feb. 24-25 during the AFL-CIO Maritime Trades Department (MTD) executive board meeting in Orlando, Fla. Sen. Mark Begich (D-Alaska), Deputy Secretary of Labor Seth Harris, U.S. Rep. Russ Carnahan (D-Mo.), Gov. Neil Abercrombie (D-Hawaii), and U.S. Rep. Charles Rangel (D-N.Y.) each pledged to champion the MTD’s objectives as opportunities availed themselves in their respective realms of influence. Carnahan and Rangel made live appearances before the board and guests while Begich, Harris and Abercrombie addressed them via video. “We certainly know the value of the maritime industry in my home state of Alaska,” said Senator Begich. “Marine transportation is crucial in my state. We don’t have the highway infrastructure of the lower 48 states and as a result we rely on aviation and marine freight and transportation to keep geographically separated sections of the state connected.” Begich recognized the thousands of hardworking Americans who are employed by the industry and elaborated on the vital role they all play in the nation’s commerce and economic recovery. “As we look towards the strengthening of our economy and reducing our deficit, Congress must work to maintain and improve the viability of our maritime interests,” Begich said. “There’s an inherent advantage of having a fleet of American-built, owned, and crewed vessels.” While there are several legislative actions Congress could take to spur maritime industry growth and ensure its preservation, none is more important than protecting the Jones Act, the senator said. Despite this opportunity to create a positive impact, Begich made the point that because of special interests, some lawmakers appear to be going out of their way to destroy the Jones Act. “There were a few members of Congress who tried to use the Deepwater Horizon tragedy as a catalyst to repeal the Jones Act by making inaccurate claims that the Jones Act somehow inhibited our country’s spill response,” he said. “We know that this was a disingenuous argument that simply isn’t true.” The senator then expressed his appreciation for the job done by the MTD to debunk the inaccurate statements about the Jones Act. Begich said that as he and other lawmakers got to work in the 112th Congress, he looked forward to working with his colleagues in the Senate to protect the Jones Act and make sure that waivers are only granted in the most extenuating circumstances. He added that the he and his colleagues also would be working hard to continue on the successes of the Maritime Security Program (MSP) and cargo preference laws. “This program (MSP) is vital to ensuring that our country has the U.S.-flag and strategic sealift capabilities it needs as well as a trained workforce of American Merchant Mariners during times of war or international emergency,” Begich said. “That’s why I was proud to support full funding for the Maritime Security Program in both 2009 and 2010. “Cargo preference is another important program,” he continued, “In addition to bolstering the viability of the maritime industry, some of our greatest foreign policy comes from the rest of the world seeing American foreign aid arrive by our U.S.-flag vessels. We saw this firsthand with the relief efforts in the aftermath of the earthquake in Haiti.” Turning to the economy, the senator said there is no doubt that our nation faces significant budgetary challenges and further that our federal deficit is unsustainable. And while the senator agrees with President Obama’s observation that tough cuts will have to be made, Begich suggested that: “We need to invest in our crumbling infrastructure, including our marine infrastructure. “This includes working with the corps of engineers in local ports and harbors to make sure that our channels are dredged and our 10 Seafarers LOG waterways are safely navigated,” he continued. “Investing in our infrastructure today will ensure that we have the capacity to accommodate marine commerce that helps drive the nation’s economy tomorrow and it will put Americans employed in the maritime trades to work.” The senator closed by telling the audience that he was honored to be selected at Chairman of the Democratic Steering and Outreach Committee in the 112th Congress. “In this capacity, I’ll look forward to working with organized labor, and the maritime community to continue to grow the economy as we turn the corner on this recession.” rifice needed to sustain this recovery, they’re trying to balance the burden on the backs of hard working Americans,” Harris said. “Instead of negotiating with workers to find solutions to difficult problems based on shared interests, they demonize and degrade in a vain attempt to show how strong and tough they are.” The maritime industry has an important lesson to teach these politicians, according to Harris. “It’s a lesson this industry taught me almost 30 years ago when Mike Sacco was showing me what it took to build a strong union and what it took to fight for working families,” he said. “It’s a message which some MTD President Michael Sacco (left) joined U.S. Rep. Charlie Rangel (D-N.Y., center) and U.S. Rep. Russ Carnahan (D-Mo.) for this photo at the conclusion of the board meeting. Harris reflected on the state of the economy and the campaign being launched in several states to eliminate their budget problems by slashing workers’ benefits and eliminating their rights to collective bargaining. When he addressed the MTD a year ago, Harris noted that the nation’s economy was at a critical stage, but that signs of recovery from the worst recession in decades were visible on the horizon. The Recovery Act and other actions by President Obama and the Democratic majority in Congress stemmed the tide of devastating job losses, he said. “Our economy had begun growing again and I promised you that our priority of the coming year would be getting the American people back to work and laying the foundation for a sustained recovery that reflected our values,” Harris said. Recalling key points of President Obama’s recent state of the union address, Harris said the president focused the nation’s attention on his administration’s plan for “winning the future” by making investments that would help boost education, innovation and industrial capacity. “At the Department of Labor, we know that winning the future also means having the best prepared and most innovative workforce in the world,” Harris pointed out. “It also means ensuring workers across the country have safe and healthy work places, and that they keep what they rightfully earn and what their unions have rightfully negotiated.” Harris said that some lawmakers in Congress seem to have no interest in providing working families help in rebuilding their lives or putting their talents to work rebuilding or nation’s economy. Others, he suggested, are calling for reckless budget cuts that could put another one million people out of work. “Instead of working towards real solutions, they are looking for scapegoats; instead of seeking thoughtful ways to truly share the sac- in power have forgotten or willfully ignored: Strong leaders don’t run from negotiations, they embrace them.” Harris said that if both sides come to the negotiating table to bargain honestly, there’s almost always room to reach an agreement. “The maritime industry has operated under these tenets for decades,” he continued. “And at a time when many seem to think that negotiations with unions are the problem, I’m proud that there’s at least one industry that’s demonstrated for years that good-faith bargaining can be the solution.” Congressman Carnahan said he admired the partnership between the military, business and labor he saw being put on display in the MTD. Such cohesion has a major positive economic impact while also boosting national security, he said. Using partnership as a framework, the congressman turned his attention to the recent assaults on organized labor, especially in Wisconsin. “They need to remember a little American history,” he said, “that America once had business leaders like Henry Ford who figured out that we needed to produce things here and also that we should pay fair wages and benefits to the people at work so they could buy the products. Too many folks have lost sight of the importance of partnership. You have not.” After discussing government bureaucracy in Washington and all of the “red tape” that comes to bear effectively halting progress, the congressman told the audience that the only way to break down barriers of this sort is to work together as partners. As examples of what could be achieved through effective partnerships, Carnahan cited successes such as the Jones Act, the cargo preference program and the MSP, all of which help maintain a viable U.S.-flag fleet. “That flag means more than being American,” the congressman said. “It means American employment, it means American security, it means smart cost efficiency in the spending of our tax dollars.” Carnahan then told board members that despite the loss of some former industry champions after the last elections, maritime still has strong allies in Congress. “But it’s now time that we have to reach out,” he said. “We have to educate a whole group of new members on both sides of the aisle and we’ve got to work to build even more allies going forward.” Turning his attention to the great American spirit, Carnahan elaborated on some of the tough challenges the country has experienced during its history including wars, depressions and recessions. It’s during times like these that Americans are at their best, he said. “That’s why I was pleased to hear the president in his state of the union speech just recently talk about the way we are going to compete globally,” he said. Carnahan said he was also pleased one day later when the president of the AFL-CIO and head of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce made a joint statement indicating they agreed with the president, and they wanted to back him in his initiatives. The congressman then thanked military leaders present for their service, business leaders for their innovation and investments, and labor leaders for their skills and commitments to joint efforts undertaken by all stakeholders in attendance. “I want you to know that you can count on me and your longtime allies in the Congress, and your new allies in the Congress to be a partner in making this all success, for your industry and for our country,” Carnahan concluded. Newly elected Governor of Hawaii and former Congressman Neil Abercrombie extended his thanks for the support he received during his gubernatorial race. “I’ve been elected governor in Hawaii in great measure because of the support of the working people throughout the state and in great measure because of the support of the Seafarers and the Maritime Trades,” Abercrombie said. “They’ve never let me down and I’m never going to let you down.” The governor concluded, “You can count on this governor; you can on this former Congressman Neil Abercrombie to be with you in solidarity.” Congressman Rangel, to a thunderous round of applause upon taking the podium, was the final speaker to address the board. “This is the time for us to get together and remind our brothers and sisters in other unions that it was not always this way,” Rangel said as he commented on the assaults being launched against union members in several states around the country. “People who have gone before us have fought, they have died, they have lost so much, and we have an obligation to make certain that we don’t lose this on our watch.” Because of this crisis being faced by working families and the inspiration received as a result of the contributions made by the MTD during rough times as well as easy ones, Rangel said, “When Russ (Congressman Russ Carnahan) and I get back to Washington, I can tell you without fear of contradiction that the first thing he and I will be doing is to make certain that when we talk about jobs. “We’re not talking about jobs in China,” he continued. “We’re talking about jobs in our ports, on our ships, for our workers. We’ll make certain that we talk about what has made this country so great: It’s being able to fulfill the dreams that our fathers and our grandparents have had; making certain that the quality of life is going to be better for our kids.” Rangel said that it’s our dreams that have made our country great. “To be able to say that you have an aspiration for your children and your grandchildren, that’s what makes America great,” he said. “You don’t have that in many countries. There are millions of people that want to come into this great nation. We have a lot of people complaining, but nobody is asking to leave. This is the greatest country in the world.” See Lawmakers, Page 15 April 2011 �63932_Newsletter:January 08 3/24/2011 5:55 PM Page 11 2011 AFL-CIO Maritime Trades Department Executive Board Meeting Robert Scardelletti President TCU T Richard Hughes President ILA Michel Desjardins President SIU of Canada Walter Wise President Iron Workers James Williams General President Painters MTD At A Glance he Maritime Trades Department, to which the SIU is affiliated, is a constitutionally mandated department of the AFL-CIO. The MTD includes 23 international unions and 21 port maritime councils in the United States and Canada representing more than 5 million working men and women. SIU President Michael Sacco also serves as president of the MTD. He most recently was reelected to the latter post during the MTD convention in September 2009. The MTD executive board usually meets early in the year. The board convened Feb. 24-25 in Orlando, Fla., during which time board members and guests addressed key issues facing not just maritime workers but all working families. The articles on pages 9-13 are based on comments made at the meeting. Also, the photos on this page show some of the board members and guests. Mark Spano President Novelty Workers Desiree Gralewicz Secretary-Treasurer SIU of Canada Jim Given Executive VP SIU of Canada James L. Henry Chairman, Board of Directors American Maritime Partnership Joseph Soresi VP Atlantic Coast SIU Kermett Mangram VP Government Services SIU Joseph Condo International VP TCU Lynn Tucker General VP Machinists Richard Lanigan VP OPEIU April 2011 Joseph Hunt President Emeritus Iron Workers Mike Jewell President MEBA Gunnar Lundeberg, President, SUP Anthony Poplawski, President, MFOW Brian Schoeneman, Legislative Director, SIU George Tricker, VP Contracts, SIU Dean Corgey VP Gulf Coast SIU Tom Orzechowski VP Great Lakes and Inland Waters Dewey Garland Directory, Railroad and Shipyard Dept., SMWIA Nick Marrone VP West Coast SIU Daniel Duncan (left) takes the helm as MTD executive secretary-treasurer as MTD President Michael Sacco (right) makes the announcement. Duncan succeeds the retiring Frank Pecquex, who will be featured in an upcoming issue of the LOG. Seafarers LOG 11 �63932_Newsletter:January 08 3/24/2011 5:55 PM Page 12 2011 AFL-CIO Maritime Trades Department Executive Board Meeting M U.S. Coast Guard: aintaining a strong and healthy partnership between the U.S. Coast Guard, labor unions, and shipping companies is a key to the continued and long-term success of the U.S. maritime industry. This was the central message proffered by Rear Adm. Kevin Cook and Jeffrey Lantz during their addresses to the AFL-CIO Maritime Trades Department (MTD) executive board during the body’s Feb. 24-25 meetings in Orlando, Fla. Admiral Cook is director for prevention policy, U.S. Coast Guard (USCG), while Lantz serves as director, commercial regulations and standards, for the USCG assistant commandant for maritime safety, security and stewardship. Cook launched his presentation with a look back at the disaster response actions taken by Seafarers, shipowners and the Coast Guard during the aftermath of the January 2010 earthquake in Haiti. “I’d like to offer my congratulations and thanks for all of the support all of you provided during this effort in helping to resolve this crisis,” he said. “At that time I know it was big on the Coast Guard’s plate and we thought it would be our biggest challenge in 2010, but as you know we moved on and got other homework with the Deepwater Horizon assignment.” The admiral said that at the height of the Deepwater Horizon response, the Coast Guard was overseeing operations involving 48,000 people, 9,000 vessels and 127 aircraft. In addition, 10 million feet of boom had been deployed under the Coast Guard’s direction. “But I think ultimately that the thing that all of us will never forget is that tragically 11 mariners lost their lives in that explosion.” The admiral then informed the audience that his commanding officer had identified the enhancement of stakeholders’ partnership as one of the Coast Guard’s central goals. “I would say that our partnership in general with the U.S. maritime interests and unions are very strong as it is,” he said. “You are always there when we need you and certainly are there when the country needs you. Although we’ll work to strengthen our partnerships, I’m really pleased with the state that they are at right now.” He then addressed several issues that are especially relevant to members of the MTD executive board and the department’s member unions: the Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC), seafarer port access, piracy and mariner credentialing. The TWIC reader pilot project now has been going on for a couple of years, according to Cook. Currently, he said, there are 16 participants in the project ranging from small passenger vessel operators to large container terminal operators that are spread out all around the country. These participants are in the final stages of collecting data for the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) which in turn will provide a report to Congress. Once these reports have been filed, the Coast Guard will be able to define what the parameters are for TWIC readers to be deployed throughout the country, Cook said. “We’ll then be able to move to a much more effective use of the card.” He added that the Coast Guard already has given 161 portable TWIC identification readers to captains of the port throughout the country and that mariners can expect the see them with greater frequency along with Coast Guard inspections on MTSA facilities. “Some of your people may be asked to produce their TWIC cards as we do a validation of identification versus how the card is displayed,” the admiral said. “It’s an internal check to make sure that the system is working and to make sure that the people that are using the TWIC as identification are really the people that deserve to have that TWIC.” Moving to Seafarer access, Cook noted that this matter has and continues to be an area of concern, but based on the number of complains he has received over the last year seems to be decreasing. “The guidance that I personally put out required all of our captains of the ports to go back and review each facility security plan and look for three things: make sure that mariner access was in the plan, make sure it was properly addressed and third whatever was in the plan to make sure that’s what the company was actually doing,” he said. “That was a huge effort and we found issues with one out every10 plans that were reviewed and it provided a lot more consistency.” Cook pointed out that the Coast Guard still hears about access issues, but primarily they seem to be more individual in nature and involve either a specific terminal or someone’s very bad experience. “We try to follow 12 Seafarers LOG Sturdy Alliance With Labor, Ship Operators Holds Key to Future of Maritime Industry Jeffrey Lantz Director, Commercial Regulations and Standards U.S. Coast Guard Asst. Commandant For Maritime Safety, Security & Stewardship up on them as quickly as possible,” Cook said, “but I think we’re going to be taking this to a whole new level in the very near term as the Coast Guard Authorization Act was signed into law in October.” This legislation includes an additional provision for facility security plans that identify a system for mariners, pilots, seamen’s welfare and labor organization representatives to board and depart vessels through facilities in a timely manner at no cost to the individual, he said. Regarding piracy, Cook said the agency deeply shares the concerns of maritime labor “and we work hard within the government interagency to promote an understanding and a common way forward that provides the best set of flag-state recommendations and requirements for our U.S.-flag operators. We also do a lot of work internationally to try to promote an international solution…. We think ultimately that’s where the solution needs to reside.” He thanked American operators and crews for the way they have stood behind the requirements put forward through a Coast Guard directive covering “best practices” for combating piracy “well ahead of the rest of the world.” He added that while the notion of embarked armed security teams was not popular internationally, most of the U.S. operators whose vessels sail in dangerous waters elected that option “and it has proven to be successful. There has not been a ship hijacked that has an armed team on board and I think that’s what it’s going to take to maintain safety and security out there.” Cook told the audience that he had read a release from the International Chamber of Shipping indicating that their position on embarked armed security teams had changed and they have become more open to the idea. Addressing the issue of mariner credentialing, the admiral said the Coast Guard is taking a critical look at the process. “We know we have issues that we need to improve on right here today,” he said. “We had meetings with the maritime (union) presidents and the medical review process is the emerging issue with a number of folks who need to get their licenses to the National Maritime Center. I just want you to know that we heard you and we’ve set up a dedicated desk within the call center that is always manned by a medical professional to facilitate more timely resolutions of issues.” He also pointed out that in the last 18 months, the average processing time for issuing licenses has dropped from around 120 days to 60 days. He indicated that for the first time, the credentialing function is fully staffed and despite missing the Coast Guard’s target of 30 days turnaround time, he thought that they were still doing very well. Lantz heads the U.S. delegation to two International Maritime Organization committees and several subcommittees. He has the MTD’s backing for the position of secretary-general of the IMO; the election is scheduled to take place later this year. Rear Adm. Kevin Cook Director, Prevention Policy U.S. Coast Guard Lantz brought the audience up to speed on the progress being made on the ratification of several significant International Labor Organization (ILO) standards affecting the maritime industry including the Seafarers’ Identity Document Convention (ILO Convention 185), the Maritime Labor Convention (MLC), the STCW Convention and medical requirements. After briefing them on the process employed by the U.S. government when considering ILO conventions, Lantz said the secretary of labor in May 210 convened a meeting of the President’s Committee to consider the ratification of ILO Convention 185, which has the support of the MTD. “The Department of Labor is leading this effort,” Lantz said, “but I call tell you that the Coast Guard continues to support the ratification of ILO Convention 185. I think that we all know that the issue with this convention is the issue with visas. It is a sticking point with CBP and the Department of State.” Lantz said the Government Accountability Office (GAO) in 2010 completed its study on Convention 185, and that the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the Department of Justice (DOJ) are next in line to examine it to ascertain what risks may be presented if it is ratified. That work has yet to be undertaken, he said, but the Coast Guard has passed a rulemaking that establishes a merchant mariner credential which is consistent with the convention at hand. “And this is what we will be issuing to all U.S. mariners so that in the event that we should ever ratify this convention, the mariners (already) will have the documentation.” With respect to the MLC, Lantz said the President’s Committee looked at this rule at the same time it examined Convention 185. “They decided that they needed to move forward on it,” he said. “The Coast Guard is taking the lead on this,” he continued. “We believe that this convention is very positive and … we will support its ratification. We have been working with the Maritime Administration on this and in August 2010 held a public meeting to provide the industry with a background of this convention.” Turning his attention to STCW Convention 2010, Lantz told those in attendance that he was keenly aware of how significant these standards are to mariners and that quite frankly, it contained a number of shortcomings. “I’m sure that everyone knows that we have published a notice of proposed rulemaking to implement the 1995 amendments to the STCW Convention and IMO,” he said. “We also know that notice was not very wellreceived and rightfully so…. There were a number of things that weren’t right.” Lantz pointed out that the Coast Guard in March came out with a notice saying that his agency was going See Healthy, Page 20 April 2011 �63932_Newsletter:January 08 3/24/2011 6:30 PM Page 13 2011 AFL-CIO Maritime Trades Department Executive Board Meeting Politics, Cooperation Remain Vital to Maritime P olitical action and cooperation in the months and years ahead will remain vital both to the domestic and international fleets, according to several guest speakers who addressed the AFL-CIO Maritime Trades Department (MTD) executive board Feb. 24. U.S. Maritime Administrator David Matsuda, World Shipping Council President Chris Koch and American Maritime Partnership (AMP) Counsel Mark Ruge separately discussed some of the key issues facing maritime, including preservation of the Jones Act, efficiently complying with new environmental regulations, fighting back against piracy and promoting greater use of the nation’s waterways. Educating members of Congress about the industry is central to many if not all of those efforts, they said. Matsuda is in charge of the Department of Transportation (DOT) agency whose mission is helping promote and maintain a viable U.S. Merchant Marine. The first speaker at the two-day board meeting, he thanked the MTD for “championing the industry.” He also said both the DOT and Maritime Administration are regularly seeking input from all segments of the industry, definitely including maritime labor. “This department, from the secretary on down, believes that the best public policy comes when we have the most seats at the table,” he stated. “That’s why we’re rolling T Chris Koch President World Shipping Council up our sleeves and listening to you in (an ongoing series of) face-to-face meetings.” Matsuda reiterated President Obama’s support for the industry. He said the administration recognizes in particular the value of U.S. seafarers. “We know that educated and trained merchant mariners are a fundamental resource for seagoing and shore-side occupations and are indispensible to our national defense,” he declared. David Matsuda Administrator U.S. Maritime Administration Additionally, Matsuda touched on current efforts to combat piracy, the need to replace aging U.S.-flag tonnage, and recent progress in the long-awaited marine highway program. “For too long, America has overlooked the economic and environmental benefits of moving domestic goods on the water, but the marine highway program will change that,” he concluded. Koch presides over an international Mark Ruge Counsel American Maritime Partnership group whose companies operate approximately 90 percent of the world’s liner ship capacity. He said that in addition to the aforementioned challenges, the rocky economy has taken a toll. Koch described 2009 as “the worst year ever for container shipping. It was a neardeath experience for many of the carriers. The bottom dropped out.” See Speakers, Page 20 Speakers See Maritime Job Opportunities in Something Old, New he respective presidents of a windfarm company and a shipbuilders association stressed abundant job opportunities that exist in both industries when they spoke to the AFL-CIO Maritime Trades Department executive board Feb. 25. Cape Wind Associates President Jim Gordon and Shipbuilders Council of America President Matt Paxton represent mostly divergent industries, but when it comes to the potential for sustaining and adding maritime jobs, those industries may have much in common. Gordon’s company is building the nation’s first offshore wind farm, on Horseshoe Shoal in Nantucket Sound – an MTD- and SIU-backed project that has been 10 years in the making. “It’s going to create jobs,” he stated. “The Energy Department estimates the construction alone will create 40,000 jobs. This does not include the supply chain that, once this market explodes … we will supply our nation’s energy from the natural winds blowing off our coasts. This will improve Jim Gordon President Cape Wind Associates April 2011 our quality of life, it will create economic prosperity and it will create better national security.” He declared, “This project is going to be constructed with union labor…. There’s going to be a lot of jobs that are going to come out of this industry.” Gordon also pointed out that projects like Cape Wind could mean new work for American shipyards that build special-purpose vessels to install the gear and for mariners who sail the ships that service the farms. Offering background on the venture, Gordon shook his head as he recalled, “We thought that when we announced this project, we would be paraded down Main Street in Hyannis as heroes.” Reality proved different, in part because the proposed location is surrounded by affluent opposition. “This is a project that would offset almost one million tons of greenhouse gasses annually,” he explained. “We were proposing a project … with zero pollutant emissions, zero water consumption and zero waste discharge.” The project’s opponents included an opposition group described by Gordon as consisting of “wealthy waterfront trophy homeowners and some entrenched business interests.” Among the former were some of the same individuals who financed the campaigns of anti-worker governors now attacking collective bargaining rights in various states. Wind-farm proponents turned to organized labor “and said this is what we’re trying to do. This is what this project means to the nation,” Gordon said. “This is the resource we have off of both our coasts. We have over 900,000 megawatts of offshore wind blowing off our coats. To put that in perspective, the installed generation capacity in the United States today is about 980,000 megawatts. So we could produce within five to 50 nautical miles of our coast, almost 100 percent of the electricity this nation needs, with zero pollution emissions, zero water consumption, zero waste discharge – and using American talent, American skills, American labor.” Gordon estimates it will take two years to build the first U.S. offshore wind farm. The Cape Wind project already has the required permits and is “in the financing stage.” He concluded, “We need a lot of energy. We need oil, we need coal, but we also need to diversify, and bringing renewable energy makes a lot of sense. It makes a lot of sense for your unions in particular because you are the people that are going to build the nation’s offshore wind infrastructure…. Once the nation sees the first offshore wind project operating, and that it’s producing all these benefits, the market will explode, just like it has in the United Kingdom.” Paxton’s group consists of 44 companies that own and operate more than 100 American shipyards. (It also represents dozens of affiliate firms that provide goods and services to the shipyard industry.) He began by telling the board, “I think there’s a misconception out there that there are no shipyards left. There’s a vibrant U.S. commercial shipyard industry…. We are on every coast of the United States, Alaska and Hawaii.” However, things have gone downhill. In the early 1980s the commercial yards had nearly 200,000 “direct” employees. “Today we represent less than one percent of the world’s shipbuilding output, and our employment is down to 85,000,” Paxton said. “Those jobs have a multiplier effect of roughly four related shore-side jobs for each shipyard job.” Nevertheless, “We think we still have some opportunities,” he continued. For instance, he sees the U.S. Transportation Department’s marine highways program as having great potential. “We support it and we build for it,” Paxton said. “What we think can happen is, we can have a short-sea component to our domestic commerce that can be very Navyuseful. At a moment’s notice, these dual-use roll-on/roll-off vessels can be called into action.” When it comes to renewable energy, “U.S. shipyards can build every asset needed for this industry…. What we mustn’t do at the outset of a new, emerging market is say, ‘Well guys, just give an exemption for the vessels. Because the next thing they’ll say is give us an exemption for the taxes and the labor and everything else. And pretty soon we’ll have [foreign]-built ships putting in these installations with foreign crews.” Paxton also urged the board not to overlook the servicing needs of the offshore wind equipment, much of which has to be visited at least monthly. “There’s an estimate out there that if we fully realize our East Coast wind capability, that would be 60,000 wind turbines off the coast. That means 60,000 moves would have to take place to maintain these things monthly,” he observed. “That’s a lot of work – that’s seafarers, that’s skilled craftsmen, that’s a big deal for us. We mustn’t lose this market. We can do this and we should be excited about this. I think this has big, big potential for my industry and for yours, too.” Matt Paxton President Shipbuilders Council of America Seafarers LOG 13 �63932_Newsletter:January 08 3/24/2011 5:55 PM Page 14 SUPPORTING NURSES IN D.C. – Seafarers demonstrated their support for registered nurses at Washington Hospital Center during a one-day walkout March 4. The 1,650 nurses, members of National Nurses United, say negotiations have failed to resolve their primary concerns regarding patient safety and nursing standards. They also object to attempts to cut nurses’ pay and benefits. AFL-CIO President Rich Trumka (center in photo directly above), flanked by Unlicensed Apprentices Mike Adorno, left, and Monasser Mohamed Ali, was among those who addressed the rally. At Sea And Ashore With The SIU MEMBERS MEET IN NORFOLK – Taking the union oath and receiving their respective membership books at the hall in Norfolk, Va., are (from left) Ernest Britt, Tyesha Boyd and Alvin Rhodes. Thanks to Port Agent Georg Kenny for the photo. CHIEF COOK EARNS ‘A’ BOOK – Patrolman Nick Marrone II (left) presents an A-seniority membership book to Chief Steward Gerald Archie earlier this year at the union hall in Oakland, Calif. Brother Archie’s recent ships include the APL Singapore and the USNS MAJ Stephen W. Pless. WELCOME ASHORE IN JACKSONVILLE – Patrolman Brian Guiry (right) congratulates SIU Captain Michael Bradshaw on his career with Crowley, which dates to the mid-1970s. Brother Bradshaw recently retired. ABOARD THE PRESIDENT JACKSON – New York Patrolman Mark von Siegel submitted these photos of the galley gang aboard the President Jackson when the vessel paid off in Staten Island, N.Y. Pictured from left to right in the group photo are Chief Cook Alonzo Belcher, ACU Atik Almontaser and Recertified Steward Muhamad Sani. WITH WEST COAST CROWLEY BOATMEN – Wilmington Port Agent Jeff Turkus and Safety Director Abdul Al-Omari recently met with Crowley boatmen in San Diego. Pictured near the Spartan in the photo at the immediate right (from left to right) are Engineer Ernie Salgado, AB Elliott DelAguila, Engineer Peter DeMaria, Turkus, Captain Ed Brooks and Captain Jim Tank. Standing left to right in the other photo, in front of the Saturn, are Brooks and AlOmari. 14 Seafarers LOG April 2011 �63932_Newsletter:January 08 3/24/2011 5:55 PM Page 15 D is p at c h e r s ’ R e p o r t f o r D e e p S e a Lawmakers Back Maritime, Labor Continued from Page 10 The congressmen reminded his audience that middle class Americans have fought hard for what they have and that if it was not for the trade union movement, we would still have 12-hour work days, unsafe working conditions, child labor, no health care, no Social Security or the ability to get an education. “But there are people out there who don’t believe that we deserve this,” he continued. “If you believe that there is not a conspiracy, please read your newspapers and see what is happening around the country. I am so pleased to know that the AFL-CIO recognizes that the advancements that we have made are under a threat.” Commenting on the country’s economic health, Rangel said that there is no question we have a fiscal crisis. “We owe over $14 trillion,” he pointed out. “A lot of that we owe to ourselves because we borrow from ourselves. We also owe money to China and other countries.” But each time you pick up the newspaper, he said, pundits and some politicians are saying that we cannot close the budget gap unless we first attack the public workers. “So you have the workers that they are going after, and then they are going after health care and saying you have to make a bigger contribution, and then they are going after pensions,” the congressman said. “This is not only immoral but heartless. This is not what our country was built on. This is not what people have fought for and let me tell you … this is not going to happen.” Rangel said that everybody knows what sacrifice means and further that it is not a word that people run away from. “If we have to make sacrifices, let us put everything on the table,” he said. Rangel then told the board that less than one percent of the American public owns 40 percent of America’s wealth and less than 50 percent of all Americans own three percent of that wealth. “Do we deny that the rich become more rich? Do we recognize that during the last couple of decades we have created more billionaires than in the whole history of America? Do we not say that if you work hard, make the right decisions or just inherit it that we want to take it away from you?” he asked. The answer is no, he continued, “but during a time of sacrifice, you (the rich and wealthy) better be at that table with us. And if we have to put everything we’ve worked for on the table, they better put what they’ve fought for on the table, too.” In closing, Rangel directed his remarks to MTD President Michael Sacco. “Mike,” he said, “You don’t have to call on us in Congress, we all know who you are. If indeed there’s a fight in Wisconsin, in Indiana and Ohio, we will be there and we will let them know that we got to where we are the hard way. We never thought for one minute that this was the end of the improvement for the quality of life for ourselves and for our children.” In his parting remark to all present, Rangel said, “More important than anything else, don’t forget the contribution that you have made for this country. Don’t ever forget that it was not management that was talking about health care, education and pensions. It was you that made these dreams come true. Don’t let us wake up and find that we have a nightmare.” P e r s o na l Angie Lindle and/or Crystal Lindle, please contact Robert Lindle at (810) 956-5586. May & June Membership Meetings Piney Point................................................Monday: May 2, June 6 Algonac .....................................................Friday: May 6, June 10 Baltimore.................................................Thursday: May 5, June 9 Guam...................................................Thursday: May 19, June 23 Honolulu .................................................Friday: May 13, June 17 Houston....................................................Monday: May 9, June 13 Jacksonville.............................................Thursday: May 5, June 9 Joliet....................................................Thursday: May 12, June 16 Mobile..............................................Wednesday: May 11, June 15 New Orleans................................................Tuesday: May 10, June 14 New York..................................................Tuesday: May 3, June 7 Norfolk...................................................Thursday: May 5, June 9 Oakland ...............................................Thursday: May 12, June 16 Philadelphia..........................................Wednesday: May 4, June 8 Port Everglades ...................................Thursday: May 12, June 16 San Juan..................................................Thursday: May 5, June 9 St. Louis ..................................................Friday: May 13, June 17 Tacoma....................................................Friday: May 20, June 24 Wilmington.................................................Monday: May 16, June 20 Each port’s meeting starts at 10:30 a.m. April 2011 February 16 - March 15, 2011 Port Total Registered All Groups A B C Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Seattle St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS 19 1 6 9 4 6 39 39 7 14 14 30 16 37 8 1 12 41 1 23 327 6 1 9 9 8 5 18 29 5 7 13 13 28 14 6 1 8 20 4 17 221 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Seattle St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS 2 1 5 6 4 4 15 13 7 6 6 13 6 8 3 1 2 16 2 13 133 4 1 5 3 2 2 11 20 3 3 4 18 15 9 2 2 9 9 3 10 135 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Seattle St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS 1 0 3 11 2 6 19 11 1 9 6 25 13 19 2 2 3 8 1 28 170 2 0 0 3 1 4 5 4 2 1 1 3 11 6 1 1 0 5 2 3 55 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Seattle St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS 1 0 0 0 0 3 4 1 0 0 1 4 0 0 0 0 3 3 0 5 25 14 1 4 7 2 1 15 17 11 5 2 27 19 7 2 4 0 12 0 8 158 GRAND TOTAL: 655 569 Total Shipped All Groups A B C Trip Reliefs 3 0 0 1 0 0 0 2 0 0 0 2 2 0 0 2 1 2 0 2 17 0 1 2 8 0 1 11 18 1 2 4 13 3 11 2 0 4 18 1 8 108 23 2 9 31 5 17 88 56 6 14 24 62 31 53 11 2 7 63 2 65 571 18 3 12 23 9 12 41 39 6 15 8 30 42 15 14 0 12 35 5 42 381 3 0 4 2 0 1 3 5 2 2 3 2 8 4 2 1 3 5 0 8 58 2 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 1 1 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 6 0 0 0 4 0 4 2 9 0 1 2 5 4 1 1 0 3 12 0 4 52 7 1 8 15 4 14 33 31 2 16 13 22 11 14 3 1 5 20 2 20 242 10 1 8 7 2 4 19 26 2 4 6 22 33 15 3 4 12 21 2 37 238 1 1 0 0 0 1 0 1 1 0 0 6 2 1 0 1 0 0 0 1 16 1 0 0 0 1 1 0 1 0 0 0 0 2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 7 0 0 1 3 1 3 7 2 0 0 2 10 8 7 1 0 1 3 0 6 55 6 0 5 13 1 18 31 21 1 12 7 40 21 30 5 4 4 24 1 45 289 10 0 1 8 2 5 9 9 4 4 3 7 23 9 1 2 1 9 2 9 118 0 0 0 1 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 2 0 0 0 0 0 1 6 0 0 4 1 0 3 1 6 0 0 2 0 5 0 1 16 0 3 0 3 45 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 1 2 1 0 0 0 4 0 2 12 3 0 0 0 0 4 14 2 0 1 1 11 0 6 0 0 3 7 0 7 59 16 2 5 14 5 7 26 43 2 10 5 80 40 20 3 6 1 20 4 45 354 28 1 4 12 2 7 7 19 1 6 4 12 48 14 6 10 0 8 0 38 227 Deck Department 4 20 6 0 2 0 1 2 7 2 8 12 0 1 2 1 5 2 2 43 5 3 28 18 0 9 5 1 10 4 1 12 8 1 31 10 5 12 18 2 17 9 0 5 2 2 0 3 2 13 6 3 32 19 0 2 1 3 15 10 33 267 147 Engine Department 2 5 4 0 0 1 0 1 3 0 9 6 0 1 0 0 8 2 0 9 8 0 15 9 1 6 6 0 5 1 0 8 1 3 12 6 1 7 9 1 9 6 0 3 3 1 1 1 0 2 2 0 19 8 0 0 3 0 4 7 9 124 86 Steward Department 0 2 1 0 0 0 0 3 1 0 10 3 0 3 0 1 4 1 0 18 3 1 12 1 0 2 3 0 2 0 0 4 1 0 16 3 1 13 5 3 19 2 0 3 0 0 2 0 0 4 0 0 7 4 0 0 1 0 15 2 6 139 31 Entry Department 5 1 11 0 0 1 4 0 3 4 0 1 0 0 0 7 2 4 2 1 8 8 0 9 0 1 9 2 1 1 2 1 3 6 3 17 13 0 5 8 3 8 1 0 1 19 0 0 0 0 0 3 3 9 0 0 0 5 4 7 89 20 97 137 550 361 75 227 Registered on Beach All Groups A B C 1,161 1,091 Seafarers LOG 307 15 �63932_Newsletter:January 08 3/24/2011 5:55 PM Page 16 Inq uiring Seaf are r S ea f a r e r s I n t e r n a t i o n a l U n i o n D i r e c t or y Michael Sacco, President Augustin Tellez, Executive Vice President David Heindel, Secretary-Treasurer George Tricker, Vice President Contracts Tom Orzechowski, Vice President Lakes and Inland Waters Dean Corgey, Vice President Gulf Coast Nicholas J. Marrone, Vice President West Coast Joseph T. Soresi, Vice President Atlantic Coast Kermett Mangram, Vice President Government Services HEADQUARTERS 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746 (301) 899-0675 ALGONAC 520 St. Clair River Dr., Algonac, MI 48001 (810) 794-4988 ANCHORAGE 721 Sesame St., #1C, Anchorage, AK 99503 (907) 561-4988 BALTIMORE 2315 Essex St., Baltimore, MD 21224 (410) 327-4900 GUAM P.O. Box 3328, Hagatna, Guam 96932 Cliffline Office Ctr. Bldg., Suite 103B 422 West O’Brien Dr., Hagatna, Guam 96910 (671) 477-1350 HONOLULU 606 Kalihi St., Honolulu, HI 96819 (808) 845-5222 HOUSTON 1221 Pierce St., Houston, TX 77002 (713) 659-5152 JACKSONVILLE 5100 Belfort Rd., Jacksonville, FL 32256 (904) 281-2622 JOLIET 10 East Clinton St., Joliet, IL 60432 (815) 723-8002 MOBILE 1640 Dauphin Island Pkwy, Mobile, AL 36605 (251) 478-0916 NEW ORLEANS 3911 Lapalco Blvd., Harvey, LA 70058 (504) 328-7545 Editor’s note: This month’s question was answered by Seafarers in Baltimore. How important are social media sites like Facebook and Twitter to your life as a mariner? Archie Eldridge QMED Facebook is a good thing. You can get in contact with people you haven’t heard from or seen in a long time. It’s also good for keeping in contact with friends you do see all the time. My classmate from Alabama didn’t know where I was and he didn’t know where to find me. He Googled me and found a cousin of mine, and through Facebook, found a way to contact me. Finding people that you otherwise wouldn’t be in contact with is why Facebook is important to me. Louis Gracia Wiper Social networking, email, and all that? I’m getting into it. It’s becoming more important to me. For example, I had an uncle pass away and having access to an online obituary allowed me to sign an online guestbook for my uncle. I obviously couldn’t attend the funeral, because I’m on the ship, but being able to sign that book meant a lot to me and my family. Using the internet is a good way to keep up with union stuff, too. I go on the LOG website often to keep up with union stuff, as well as the (rest of the) Seafarers site. Gregory White AB-Maintenance For me, being on a ROS ship, a lot of our communication is controlled by the government while we’re out at sea. With these social networking sites, we can’t real- P i c - F r o m - T h e -P a s t ly use those when we’re out on deployment. If you’re on a military activated ship, you can’t use it for security reasons. I’m not really hot on computers right now, but I do use it for emails and keeping in contact. But as far as going on a site and looking up union information, I do it because I can go print off documents I need for my work. Those types of sites are more useful to me right now. Mainly what I do online is ordering something, not so much communicating with people. Robert Brown Chief Steward I’m not a Facebook person. I do think that it’s some of the best stuff people have come up with for merchant seaman’s purposes, though. Getting in touch with people is important because we know people all over the country, on different ships, and it sounds like it would be great to be able to keep up with all those people, but I’m not really into Facebook. Tom Moore Bosun Well, Facebook is really not important at all to me. Email is really important to stay in touch with family, but Facebook is not all that important. Honestly, I’ve never really been on it. People that I really need to talk to know how to contact me. Through cell phone, especially with the technology today, you can talk on a cell phone pretty much anywhere in the world. To me, letters that you send off and mail home and waiting for another one to get to you works. I get all my information about the union from the LOG and also from the union hall. I can see how it has the potential to be a useful tool, though. NEW YORK 635 Fourth Ave., Brooklyn, NY 11232 (718) 499-6600 Government Services Division: (718) 499-6600 NORFOLK 115 Third St., Norfolk, VA 23510 (757) 622-1892 OAKLAND 1121 7th St., Oakland, CA 94607 (510) 444-2360 PHILADELPHIA 2604 S. 4 St., Philadelphia, PA 19148 (215) 336-3818 PINEY POINT P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674 (301) 994-0010 PORT EVERGLADES 1221 S. Andrews Ave., Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33316 (954) 522-7984 SANTURCE 1057 Fernandez Juncos Ave., Stop 16 Santurce, PR 00907 (787) 721-4033 ST. LOUIS/ALTON 4581 Gravois Ave., St. Louis, MO 63116 (314) 752-6500 TACOMA 3411 South Union Ave., Tacoma, WA 98409 (253) 272-7774 WILMINGTON 510 N. Broad Ave., Wilmington, CA 90744 (310) 549-4000 In this file photo from September 1946, Seafarers converge in the chow line at the old headquarters building on Beaver Street in New York. The picture was taken during the general strike. If anyone has a vintage union-related photograph he or she would like to share with other Seafarers LOG readers, please send it to the Seafarers LOG, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. Photographs will be returned, if so requested. High-resolution digital images may be sent to webmaster@seafarers.org 16 Seafarers LOG April 2011 �63932_Newsletter_X:January 08 3/25/2011 8:07 PM Page 17 W e l c o me A sh ore Each month, the Seafarers LOG pays tribute to the SIU members who have devoted their working lives to sailing aboard U.S.-flag vessels on the deep seas, inland waterways or Great Lakes. Listed below are brief biographical sketches of those members who recently retired from the union. The brothers and sisters of the SIU thank those members for a job well done and wish them happiness and good health in the days ahead. DEEP SEA ANDRES CABALLERO Brother Andres Caballero, 65, became a Seafarer in 1990 while in the port of Houston. His first ship was the Independence; his last, the Overseas Luxmar. Brother Caballero was born in Honduras and worked in the steward department. He lives in Houston. SANTIAGO CRUZ Brother Santiago Cruz, 63, started his SIU career in 2001 during the SIU/NMU merger. The engine department member originally sailed on the Chilbar. In 2001, Brother Cruz took advantage of educational opportunities at the SIU-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. His most recent trip to sea was aboard the Alliance Norfolk. Brother Cruz calls Philadelphia home. JOSEPH FABBIANO Brother Joseph Fabbiano, 65, joined the union in 1967. He initially sailed aboard the Longveiw Victory. Brother Fabbiano shipped in the engine department. He upgraded in 1967 at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. (the year the school opened). Brother Fabbiano’s final ship was the Little Hales. He resides in West Covina, Calif. MILTON FLYNN Brother Milton Flynn, 65, began sailing with the SIU in 2000 while in Fort Lauderdale, Fla. He sailed in the deck department. Brother Flynn’s earliest trip was on the USNS Dahl. He attended classes on numerous occasions at the Piney Point school. Brother Flynn most recently shipped aboard the Lt. Col. Calvin P. Titus. He is a resident of Pompano Beach, Fla. CHARLES JOHNSON Brother Charles Johnson, 67, signed on with the Seafarers in 1990. He originally worked in the inland division aboard a Crowley of Puerto Rico vessel. Brother Johnson’s final voyage was on the Ascension. The deck department member makes his home in Hudson, Fla. JOHN JOHNSON SR. Brother John Johnson Sr., 65, April 2011 donned the SIU colors in 2001 while in Piney Point. His earliest trip was on the USNS Red Cloud. Brother Johnson upgraded on two occasions at the Paul Hall Center. His most recent trip was aboard the Ltc. John U D Page. Brother Johnson, who sailed in the deck department, lives in Corpus Christi, Texas. MICHAEL KIRBY Brother Michael Kirby, 60, was born in Philadelphia. He started shipping with the union in 1970. Brother Kirby’s first voyage was on the Noonday. He last sailed on the Horizon Hawk. Brother Kirby, who sailed in the engine department, enhanced his seafaring abilities frequently at the Piney Point school. He settled in Audubon, N.J. RICHARD KUCHARSKI Brother Richard Kucharski, 69, joined the SIU ranks in 1985. He was initially employed aboard the USNS Contender. Brother Kucharski was a steward department member. He most recently worked on the USNS Impeccable. Brother Kucharski upgraded in 2001 at the maritime training center in Piney Point, Md. He now calls Kingston, Wash., home. MARJORIE MACK Sister Marjorie Mack, 65, began sailing with the Seafarers in 1991. Her first trip to sea was aboard the Arabian Sea. Her most recent ship was the President Polk. Sister Mack worked in the steward department. She attended classes on two occasions at the Paul Hall Center. Sister Mack resides in Norfolk, Va. ARMANDO MEDINA Brother Armando Medina, 65, became an SIU member in 1988. His earliest trip was aboard the Star of Texas. Brother Medina’s final voyage was on the Liberty Grace. He was a member of the deck department. Brother Medina is a resident of New Orleans. LUIS ROEBUCK Brother Luis Roebuck, 65, started his SIU career in 1999 while in Puerto Rico. Brother Roebuck worked in the engine department. His first ship was the Green Mountain State; his last was the Horizon Producer. Brother Roebuck visited the Piney Point school in 2001 and 2004 to enhance his seafaring abilities. He makes his home in Puerto Rico. STEPHANIE SIZEMORE Sister Stephanie Sizemore, 60, joined the Seafarers in 1989. She was born in Sacramento, Calif. Sister Sizemore initially worked on the Independence. The steward department member’s final trip was aboard the Champion. Sister Sizemore calls Roseville, Calif., home. INLAND MICHAEL BRADSHAW Brother Michael Bradshaw, 56, signed on with the union in 1976. He primarily sailed with Crowley on tugs such as the Apache and Explorer. Brother Bradshaw visited the Piney Point school often to upgrade his skills. He was born in Tennessee and worked in the deck department. Brother Bradshaw lives in Florida. born in Washington, D.C. He joined the SIU in 1977 while in the port of Baltimore. Brother Lehew originally worked on vessels operated by National Maritime Service Inc. He most recently worked with OSG Ship Management. Brother Lehew, who sailed in the deck department, settled in Riverdale, Md. WAYNE MOORE Brother Wayne Moore, 64, became an SIU member 1973. Brother Moore initially shipped aboard Taylor Marine Towing Company vessels. His last trip was with Moran Towing of Philadelphia. Brother Moore is a resident of Newton Square, Pa. MIGUEL NEGRON Brother Miguel Negron, 62, began sailing with the union in 1976. He was mainly employed with Crowley Puerto Rico. Brother Negron worked in the deck department. He upgraded his skills in 1980 at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Negron lives in San Juan, P.R. GREAT LAKES JOEL LECHEL Brother Joel Lechel, 51, started shipping with the SIU in 1979. His earliest trip was on the Indiana Harbor. Brother Lechel attended classes on numerous occasions at the Piney Point school. He worked in the deck department. Brother Lechel’s final vessel was the Walter J. McCarthy. He resides in Alpena, Mich. DON MILLS Brother Don Mills, 62, joined the union in 1979 while in the port of Algonac, Mich. He sailed primarily aboard vessels operated by Luedtke Engineering Company. Brother Mills was born in Ohio and shipped as a member of the deck department. He makes his home in Frankfort, Mich. T h is M o nt h I n S I U H i s t o r y WILLIAM LEHEW Brother William Lehew, 55, was Editor’s note: The following items are reprinted from previous editions of the Seafarers LOG. 1953 With just three days to go to strike deadline, the Cities Service Oil Company yielded completely to all SIU demands and signed the standard SIU tanker agreement, retroactive to January 1, 1953. The contract was signed on Friday, April 17, a few hours after the Seafarers LOG came out with news about the SIU’s full strike preparations and pledges of support received from shoreside Cities Service unions such as the Lake Charles Metal Trades Council, AFL, representing Cities Service employees at the Lake Charles refinery and the Louisiana State Federation of Labor. The refusal of the membership and the union negotiating committee to accept anything less than a full settlement paid off after several weeks of negotiations at which the company unsuccessfully argued for special treatment. 1957 The Seafarers Welfare Plan medical center, first seaman’s health center in maritime, was officially opened in Brooklyn on April 16. The next morning the center was functioning, giving complete physical examinations to Seafarers and recommending treatment where necessary by private physicians or the Public Health Service. Dedication of the center, the Peter Larsen Memorial Clinic, drew an audience of more than 500 guests from the industry, various government agencies including the U.S. Public Health Service and the Coast Guard, the medical profession, and the trade union movement, plus Seafarers themselves. 1986 Trade unionists in seven cities demonstrated against the apartheid system in South Africa and against Shell Oil for its treatment of black workers there. Members of the AFL-CIO’s Executive Council including SIU President Frank Drozak spoke at the rallies, which were also attended by black trade unionists from South Africa. During the speeches in Washington, D.C., speakers were framed by two SIU trainees from the Harry Lundeberg School who held a sign aloft that read “Labor Against Apartheid.” Upgraders, trainees and recertified bosuns from the SHLSS attended the rally, as did their family members and workers from SIU headquarters in Camp Springs, Md. 2000 With the opening of a new SIU hall in Guam, Seafarers now have an additional location where they can register, file for benefits, acquire upgrading forms and beneficiary cards and take care of other related business with the union. Additionally, the Seafarers Welfare Plan has contracted with a local clinic in Guan, so members may utilize that facility to meet their medical requirements for shipping. Seafarers LOG 17 �63932_Newsletter:January 08 3/24/2011 5:56 PM Page 18 Fina l De pa r tu r e s DEEP SEA EDWARD ALLEN Pensioner Edward Allen, 78, died Dec. 12. Brother Allen joined the Seafarers in 1962. His initial voyage was aboard a Penn Marine Company vessel. Brother Allen, who sailed in the deck department, was a Memphis, Tenn., native. His final trip was on the USNS Bellatrix. Brother Allen retired in 1988 and called Slidell, La., home. HERNEGILDO BATIZ Brother Hernegildo Batiz, 50, passed away Nov. 11. He signed on with the union in 1987 while in the port of Houston. Brother Batiz’s earliest trip was aboard the Ultrasea. He was born in Honduras and worked in the steward department. Brother Batiz was most recently employed on the Sulpher Enterprise. He lived in Houston. WERNER BECHER Pensioner Werner Becher, 75, died Dec. 11. Brother Becher was born in Germany. He joined the SIU in 1966, originally working in the deck department aboard a vessel operated by Connecticut Transport Inc. Brother Becher last sailed on the Horizon Navigator. He went on pension in 2005 and lived in Waveland, Miss. JAMES BOVAY Pensioner James Bovay, 75, passed away Nov. 23. Brother Bovay began sailing with the union in 1963. He was initially employed with United States Shipping Company. Brother Bovay, who sailed in the deck department, was born in New York. He most recently sailed aboard the Challenger. Brother Bovay started receiving his pension in 2002 and settled in Houston. VERNON BRYANT Pensioner Vernon Bryant, 98, died Dec. 12. Brother Bryant started his seafaring career in 1951. His first vessel was the Ocean Transport. The Floridaborn mariner worked in the deck 18 Seafarers LOG department. Brother Bryant’s final trip was on the Mohawk. He went on pension in 1977 and made his home in Tampa, Fla. STEPHEN CZAPLE Brother Stephen Czaple, 62, passed away Nov. 22. He joined the union 1998 in the port of San Francisco. Brother Czaple initially worked aboard the Maersk Constellation. The deck department member’s last trip was on the Horizon Tiger. Brother Czaple was born in San Francisco but called San Leandro, Calif., home. SEVERINO GARCIA Pensioner Severino Garcia, 84, died Dec. 20. Brother Garcia became a Seafarer in 1951. He originally worked aboard a Louisiana Sulphur Carrier vessel. Brother Garcia, a member of the engine department, was a native of Galveston, Texas. Prior to his retirement in 1973, he sailed with Michigan Tankers Inc. vessel. Brother Garcia resided in Houston. MARTIN HAMMOND Pensioner Martin Hammond, 82, passed away Dec. 23. Brother Hammond first donned the SIU colors in 1953. His first ship was the Andrew Jackson; his last, the Overseas Juneau. Brother Hammond was a member of the deck department. He was born in South Carolina. Brother Hammond began collecting his retirement compensation in 1983. He was a resident of Tabor City, N.C. BOLAND HOFFMAN Pensioner Boland Hoffman, 83, died Dec. 9. Brother Hoffman signed on with the Seafarers in 1945. The deck department member initially worked with Sprogue Steamship Company. Brother Hoffman was born in South Carolina. Before retiring in 1989, he shipped on the Challenger. Brother Hoffman continued to live in his native state. KENNETH LEE Brother Kenneth Lee, 64, passed away Nov. 23. He was born in Hong Kong. Brother Lee started sailing with the Marine Cooks and Stewards in 1978 from the port of San Francisco. He was a member of the steward department. Brother Lee’s first ship was the Santa Mercedes. His last voyage was aboard the Thailand. He was a resident of San Francisco. WILBUR LEWIS Brother Wilbur Lewis, 54, died Nov. 12. He began his seafaring career in 2000 while in the port of New Orleans. Brother Lewis originally sailed in the deck department of the Global Sentinel. His final voyage took place on the Freedom. Brother Garcia made his home in Gulfport, Miss. ALLAN MELENDEZ Brother Allan Melendez, 45, passed away Nov. 8. He became an SIU member in 1994 while in the port of Houston. Brother Melendez first shipped on the Independence. He worked in the steward department. Brother Melendez’s last trip was aboard the Sulphur Enterprise. He lived in Houston. DERRICK MOORE Brother Derrick Moore, 29, died Nov. 13. He was an Alabama native and started sailing with the SIU in 2008. Brother Moore joined the union while attending classes at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. The deck department member initially worked on the USNS Pathfinder. Brother Moore’s final voyage took place aboard the USNS Stockham. He called the Bronx, N.Y., home. EDWARD RICKARD Pensioner Edward Rickard, 80, passed away Nov. 16. Brother Rickard, a member of the deck department, began sailing with the SIU in 1960 while in Houston. His first trip was on the Pandora. Before retiring in 1996, Brother Rickard sailed aboard the Nedlloyd Holland. He resided in Sweeny, Texas. JOHN YOUNG Pensioner John Young, 72, died Dec. 13. Brother Young was born in Cleveland. He first donned the SIU colors in 1988. Brother Young initially sailed on the USNS Algol. He was a member of the deck department. Brother Young’s last voyage was aboard the Sulphur Enterprise. He went on pension in 2003 and settled in Junction, Texas. INLAND JOSEPH BRADY Brother Joseph Brady, 50, passed away Nov. 15. He joined the union in 1991. Brother Brady shipped in the deck department. He worked with Higman Barge Lines for the duration of his seafaring career. Brother Brady lived in Madisonville, Texas. LESTER HEBERT Pensioner Lester Hebert, 73, died Nov. 3. Brother Hebert signed on with the SIU in 1968. He was primarily employed with HVIDE Marine aboard the Sabine. Brother Hebert retired in 1994 and made his home in Port Arthur, Texas. EDWARD PACE Pensioner Edward Pace, 59, passed away Dec. 9. Brother Pace became an SIU member in 1969. He was a Florida native. Brother Pace originally sailed with Southern Carriers Corporation. His final trip was aboard a Penn Maritime Inc. vessel. Brother Pace called Portsmouth, Va., home. Virginia native but settled in Thonotosassa, Fla. He became a pensioner in 1996. NATIONAL MARITIME UNION VITENTE AVILA Pensioner Vitente Avila, 91, passed away Nov. 7. Brother Avila was born in Honduras. He retired in 1969 and lived in Humble, Texas. LEROY HICKMAN SR. Pensioner Leroy Hickman, Sr., 82, died Nov. 13. Brother Hickman, a native of Crowley, La., became a pensioner in 1987. He called Port Arthur, Texas, home. ADAM IZAGUIRRE Pensioner Adam Izaguirre, 89, passed away Nov. 16. Brother Izaguirre was born in Honduras. He went on pension in 1985. Brother Izaguirre settled in Bayside, N.Y. MCADOO PARMAR Pensioner McAdoo Parmar, 91, died Nov. 29. The Alabama-born mariner became a pensioner in 1968. Brother Parmar was a resident of Fairhope, Ala. RAUL SOCIA Pensioner Raul Socia, 88, passed away Nov. 10. Brother Socia was a native of Puerto Rico. He started collecting his retirement compensation in 1986. Brother Socia made his home in New York. Name Buchanan, William Cerko, Carlos Garcia, Benigno Gonzalez, Cristobal Gonzalez, Ramon Lambert, Edward Lance, Eugene Nixon, Melvin Pappas, John Rosa, Manuel Santos, Federico Schumansky, John Shireh, Mohammed Age 91 89 85 88 68 82 82 84 84 93 81 89 67 DOD Nov. 27 Dec. 1 Nov. 20 Nov. 7 Nov.23 Nov. 7 Nov. 19 Dec. 1 Nov. 6 Nov. 9 Nov. 10 Nov. 1 Nov. 5 CARL VETRA Pensioner Carl Vetra, 79, died Nov. 14. Brother Vetra began sailing with the union in 1964 while in Norfolk, Va. He mainly worked aboard Sheridan Transportation Company vessels as a member of the deck department. Brother Vetra was a April 2011 �63932_Newsletter:January 08 3/24/2011 5:56 PM Page 19 D i g es t o f S h ip b oa r d U n io n M e et i ng s CHARGER (Maersk Line, Limited), January 16 – Chairman Robert Pagan Jr., Secretary George F. Farala, Educational Director Andrew J. Linares, Deck Delegate Julius J. Dagoldol, Engine Delegate Salvador Baclayon, Steward Delegate John Bennett. Chairman reported a smooth voyage with a great crew and went over ship’s itinerary. Secretary expressed gratitude for fellow crew members and good leadership. Educational director encouraged mariners to upgrade at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. Treasurer stated $1,200 in ship’s fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. It was suggested that there be a 30-minute per-person limit on computer. Next port: Oakland, Calif. ENTERPRISE (Horizon Lines), January 28 – Chairman George B. Khan, Secretary Keesha D. Smith, Educational Director Erik W. Nappier, Deck Delegate Charles E. Turner. Bosun reported that safety award points to be donated to the charity “Give Kids the World.” He discussed company’s financial situation and responsive actions of both unlicensed and licensed unions. Educational director advised all mariners to attend classes at the SIU-affiliated training center in Piney Point, Md. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Suggestions were made regarding vacation benefits and communicating with officials. FALCON (Horizon Lines), January 4 – Chairman Rudy A. Santos, Secretary Rodulfo O. Pardilla, Educational Director Anwar N. Muthala, Engine Delegate Jeffrey Murray. Chairman reminded members to leave rooms clean and supplied with fresh linen for arriving crew. He thanked steward department for excellent food. Educational director reiterated the need to renew documents in a timely manner and advised all mariners to attend classes at the SIU-affiliated training center in Piney Point, Md. He also urged members to contribute to SPAD (Seafarers Political Activity Donation). No beefs or disputed OT reported. Request was made for a new DVD player in crew lounge. A vote of thanks was given to the steward department. It was reported that company would provide Chinese visa. GLOBAL SENTINEL (Transoceanic Cable Ship Company), January 24 – Chairman Lee Hardman, Secretary Vicki L. Haggerty, Educational Director Vladimir G. Tkachev, Deck Delegate Terrence X. Carmody, Engine Delegate Norman A. Arquillano, Steward Delegate Dennis D. Skretta. Chairman asked everyone to help keep common areas clean. He noted that the engine department had installed a new washer in crew laundry room and reminded crew that flu shots were still available. Secretary thanked deck department for painting and waxing the decks, “they look great.” Bingo night to take place February 9. Educational director advised everyone to upgrade at the union-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md., and make sure they stay up-to-date on all necessary seafaring documents. Treasurer reported $4,000 in ship’s fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Recommendations were April 2011 made to improve medical and dental coverage. GREEN BAY (Waterman), January 2 – Chairman Gerald M. Alford, Secretary John Bukowsky, Educational Director Fernando A. Ortega, Deck Delegate Robert T. Cole, Engine Delegate Steve Schaffer, Steward Delegate Betty Cooper. Chairman thanked crew members for cooperation and safe working habits. He announced that Patrolman is expected to visit ship in Hawaii. Secretary expressed gratitude for fellow members help keeping ship clean. They were encouraged to take advantage of upgrading opportunities available at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Captain maintains ship’s fund that is used to purchase DVDs stateside. Mariners would like minirefrigerators for rooms and a larger washing machine. Thanks given to the steward department for great holiday meals. Next port: Pearl Harbor, Hawaii. HONOR (Crowley), January 23 – Chairman Billy G. Hill Sr., Secretary Gerald L. Hyman, Deck Delegate Oliver W. Dailey, Engine Delegate Matthew Bryant, Steward Delegate Nora Porter. Chairman announced payoff in Jacksonville, Fla., on January 29. He reported a safe voyage with no lost-time injuries. Job well done in all departments. Secretary thanked crew for keeping mess hall clean and separating paper, plastic and food waste. He urged members to keep credentials in good order and support SPAD. Treasure noted $3,000 in ship’s fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Final room inspection by captain was a success in all departments. Crew was reminded to supply fresh linen for arriving mariners. Next ports: Jacksonville, Fla., Beaumont, Texas and Galveston, Texas. LIGHTNING (Maersk Line, Limited), January 8 – Chairman Shawn T. Evans, Secretary Donald F. Dwyer, Educational Director Daniel F. Dean, Deck Delegate James Morgan. Chairman thanked crew for good trip and reminded them to leave rooms clean for next mariners if they’re signing off. Secretary encouraged fellow members to support Maritime Defense League (MDL) and reminded them to return DVDs in good order to movie locker. Educational director recommended upgrading at unionaffiliated school in Piney Point, Md. He also reminded them to keep their documents updated and accurate. No beefs or disputed OT reported. New washer for crew laundry will be replaced in Oakland, Calif. New DVD player needed for lounge. Crew suggested renaming vacation benefits. Next ports: Oakland and Long Beach, Calif. MAERSK CAROLINA (Maersk Line, Limited), January 2 – Chairman Brian K. Fountain, Secretary Alexander Banky, Educational Director Kevin M. Cooper, Deck Delegate Ronald Mena, Steward Delegate Martin Krins. Crew noted money available in ship’s fund for TV equipment for lounge. Chairman reported another safe voyage with no lost-time injuries and no beefs. He announced payoff scheduled for The Seafarers LOG attempts to print as many digests of union shipboard minutes as possible. On occasion, because of space limitations, some will be omitted. Ships’ minutes first are reviewed by the union’s contract department. Those issues requiring attention or resolution are addressed by the union upon receipt of the ships’ minutes. The minutes are then forwarded to the Seafarers LOG for publication. SIU Members Assist in Military Exercise Seafarers aboard the AMSEA-operated USNS Sgt. William R. Button and SS Curtiss supported a military exercise known as Pacific Horizon 2011 from March 1-13. According to the U.S. Military Sealift Command, the yearly exercise involved approximately 2,500 Marines and Navy sailors in addition to 64 civilian mariners. Pacific Horizon prepares U.S. forces to conduct at-sea transfers of equipment “from sealift platforms to ships and shore-side locations via surface craft,” MSC reported. In photo above, an amphibious assault vehicle with 3rd Amphibious Assault Battalion drives onto a roll on/roll off discharge facility attached to the Button near Camp Pendleton, Calif. In the other photo, the Button floats three miles off the coast off Camp Pendleton’s Red Beach. (Photos by Sgt. Jason Fudge) Jan. 10 and reminded crew to keep garbage room locked while vessel is in port. He extended “special thanks to everyone for doing their jobs professionally and in a timely manner.” Secretary urged members to read Seafarers LOG for important information and also recommended contributing to SPAD “because when you do, you help yourself as well as your union brothers.” Educational director reminded crew to get their time in and take advantage of upgrading at Piney Point. Crew thanked steward department for all the great holiday meals. Crew made numerous recommendations about next contract and various benefits plans. They included detailed suggestions related to piracy and how current realities may be reflected in writing. Crew gave special thanks to Deck Delegate Mena for donating his time and efforts making Christmas gifts for fellow mariners: “Just another one of the many ways Ron looks out for his union brothers, making the holiday a little brighter at sea.” Next ports: Newark, N.J., Charleston, S.C. and Norfolk, Va. MAERSK MISSOURI (Maersk Line, Limited), January 30 – Chairman Domingo Leon, Secretary Billy Gigante, Educational Director Roger L. Dillinger Jr., Deck Delegate John O’Shaughnessy, Engine Delegate James Sieger, Steward Delegate Husain Salah. Chairman reported good voyage and good crew. He said that on the next trip, the ship will be bound for Dubai, Port Qasim, Salalah and India. Secretary agreed it was a good voyage with excellent crew. He reminded mariners to leave cabins clean for reliefs. Educational director encouraged crew to upgrade at Piney Point and keep documents up-to-date. No beefs or disputed OT. Members recommended modifications to pension plan and dental benefits and also asked that a wiper be added to regular crew complement. Crew thanked galley gang for job well done. Next ports: Charleston, S.C., Norfolk, Va. and Newark, N.J. MERCURY (Maersk Line, Limited), January 23 – Chairman Larry Bradley, Educational Director Oswald Bermeo, Engine Delegate Seller T. Brooks. Crew is addressing safety issues. New port of call may be added. Chairman thanked crew for safe voyage and encouraged them to submit suggestions for upcoming contract. He thanked Chief Cook David Brown for good meals and announced payoff to take place at sea. Educational director encouraged mariners to upgrade at Paul Hall Center and asked school personnel to lengthen classes for electricians. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew noted impor- tance of receiving regular communications from headquarters and visits by patrolman. Crew read SIU President Michael Sacco’s column from the December edition of the LOG. They noted some of the Election Day results including losses by several longtime supporters of the U.S. Merchant Marine. Crew suggested modifications to contract and various benefits plans. Crew noted port of Miami is expected to have “24/7” transportation available to and from the ship and taxi drop-off areas outside of restricted zones. They asked for changes in food provisions. Next ports: Newark, N.J., Charleston, S.C. and Savannah, Ga. PEARL (American President Lines), January 16 – Chairman James R. Blitch, Secretary Philip J. Paquette, Educational Director Eddie Almodovar, Deck Delegate Paul Riley, Engine Delegate Wilfredo Martinez, Steward Delegate Manes Sainvil. Chairman mentioned recent correspondence from union. He clarified rotation schedule. Educational director encouraged members to upgrade and keep documents up-to-date. No beefs reported. Crew made suggestion related to procedure for contract ratification. They thanked steward department “for outstanding food and great meals and great service.” Next port: Charleston, S.C. Seafarers LOG 19 �63932_Newsletter:January 08 3/24/2011 6:31 PM Page 20 Healthy Partnership Plays Significant Role In Maritime’s Future Continued from Page 12 to reconsider its original proposal and would be publishing a supplemental notice. Since that time, he said, the IMO has revised the STCW Convention 2010 with amendments and further that the Coast Guard’s intention is to include these amendments in its proposed rulemaking. “I want to point out that deciding to publish a supplemental notice was in no small part due to the comments we received from Mike [MTD President Michael Sacco] and his organization on the things we have had wrong,” he said. “I want to emphasize that when we do this rulemaking, we do try to be inclusive. Sometimes we don’t get it right but that’s why we have these proposals and we do appreciate the comments.” Lantz said the Coast Guard received more than 1,000 comments on the rulemaking at hand. The problem his agency now faces is getting this rulemaking out in time; the amendments are supposed to enter into force Jan. 1, 2012. On the licensing and credentialing front, Lantz said that the charter for Coast Guard’s Merchant Marine Personnel Advisory Committee (MERPAC) is yet to be signed. “That’s very discouraging and the membership of that advisory committee still has not been approved,” he said. “I can tell you that the Coast Guard has been pushing very, very hard to get this done…. Some of you in the room have been pushing also and we appreciate your efforts.” He concluded, “The Coast Guard is committed to working with labor. We appreciate the help you’ve given us; you’ve been sitting with us as we go over to IMO and I know you’ll be sitting with us when we go over to ILO. We look forward to this continued cooperation.” FINANCIAL REPORTS. The Constitution of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU makes specific provision for safeguarding the membership’s money and union finances. The constitution requires a detailed audit by certified public accountants every year, which is to be submitted to the membership by the secretary-treasurer. A yearly finance committee of rank-and-file members, elected by the membership, each year examines the finances of the union and reports fully their findings and recommendations. Members of this committee may make dissenting reports, specific recommendations and separate findings. TRUST FUNDS. All trust funds of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU are administered in accordance with the provisions of various trust fund agreements. All these agreements specify that the trustees in charge of these funds shall equally consist of union and management representatives and their alternates. All expenditures and disbursements of trust funds are made only upon approval by a majority of the trustees. All trust fund financial records are available at the headquarters of the various trust funds. SHIPPING RIGHTS. A member’s shipping rights and seniority are protected exclusively by contracts between the union and the employers. Members should get to know their shipping rights. Copies of these contracts are posted and available in all union halls. If members believe there have been violations of their shipping or seniority rights as contained in the contracts between the union and the employers, they should notify the Seafarers Appeals Board by certified mail, return receipt requested. The proper 20 Seafarers LOG Speakers Outline Vital Maritime Industry Issues Continued from Page 13 However, 2010 “was a year of recovery” and the early returns from 2011 are positive. He pointed out that one result of the still-challenging times is that ships are “slow steaming,” which drastically reduces fuel consumption. Also, larger ships are being ordered because they’re ultimately cheaper to operate. Concerning policy, in Washington, it is currently “difficult to get maritime up on the priority list. Frankly, it’s difficult to get transportation up on the priority list in the current environment in Washington, D.C.,” he said. He discussed competition for funding in various industries and the need for improved, modernized maritime infrastructure. While crediting organized labor for grassroots political support, Koch said that when looking ahead “the environmental agenda will continue to be one we have to pay a lot attention to. Politically, we know in many port communities there’s a concern about the environmental impact of the shipping industry.” The industry has put emission controls in effect starting next year, he added. Concerning piracy and shipboard security, Koch said that the recent murder of four yachtsmen was “a brutal and appalling tragedy” that spotlighted the ongoing problem. “The concern that our industry has is that as appalling and abhorrent as that was, there are 800 seafarers that are hostages to these pirates, and people tend to forget them,” he continued. “It’s not something that should be forgotten. There are daily attacks on ships in that area. It’s costing the economy, it’s costing seafarer welfare, it’s costing everybody – and governments need to step up and do a better job. We have to bring attention to this. I fully recognize there’s no simple solution but unless efforts are brought together by governments, including efforts on shore in Somalia to set up some sort of infrastructure that can try to bring discipline to this situation, we have an intolerable situation that’s only going to continue. I’m pleased to say we are working closely with labor on this.” He added, “We need to recognize that by working together as an industry, we can affect a positive outcome for all of us, from dealing with climate change to protecting commerce from terrorist risks to making real increases in dealing with the transportation infrastructure challenges we all face. The maritime industry and the maritime labor community are generally on the same page when it comes to addressing maritime public policy challenges.” Ruge reminded the audience that his newly renamed coalition – formerly the Maritime Cabotage Task Force – “represents every segment of the American maritime industry. In fact, you could say AMP is the American maritime industry.” (The SIU is one of hundreds of AMP affiliates.) He discussed “unprecedented threats” to the Jones Act and the industry’s response. (The Jones Act is an indispensible part of the American maritime industry’s foundation. It requires that goods moving between domestic ports be transported on vessels that are crewed, built, owned and flagged American.) Among the concerns cited by Ruge were the recent losses of many industry champions in Congress; unfair and inaccurate blame placed on the Jones Act and U.S. maritime labor during the BP oil cleanup; and 2012 elections that may result in erosion of maritime support. Reflecting on the Deepwater Horizon disaster and the lies about the Jones Act, Ruge said, “It was ridiculous at times. We were so much in the bullseye, particularly in the right-wing media and right-wing blogs. At one point Sarah Palin tweeted to her people that Kn ow Y o u r R i gh t s address for this is: Augustin Tellez, Chairman Seafarers Appeals Board 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 Full copies of contracts as referred to are available to members at all times, either by writing directly to the union or to the Seafarers Appeals Board. CONTRACTS. Copies of all SIU contracts are available in all SIU halls. These contracts specify the wages and conditions under which an SIU member works and lives aboard a ship or boat. Members should know their contract rights, as well as their obligations, such as filing for overtime (OT) on the proper sheets and in the proper manner. If, at any time, a member believes that an SIU patrolman or other union official fails to protect their contractual rights properly, he or she should contact the nearest SIU port agent. EDITORIAL POLICY — THE SEAFARERS LOG. The Seafarers LOG traditionally has refrained from publishing any article serving the political purposes of any individual in the union, officer or member. It also has refrained from publishing articles deemed harmful to the union or its collective membership. This established policy has been reaffirmed by membership action at the September 1960 meetings in all constitutional ports. The responsibility for Seafarers LOG policy is vested in an editorial board which consists of the executive board of the union. The executive board may delegate, from among its ranks, one individual to carry out this responsibility. PAYMENT OF MONIES. No monies are to be paid to anyone in any official capacity in the SIU unless an official union receipt is given for same. Under no circumstances should any member pay any money for any reason unless he is given such receipt. In the event anyone attempts to require any such payment be made without supplying a receipt, or if a member is required to make a payment and is given an official receipt, but feels that he or she should not have been required to make such payment, this should immediately be reported to union headquarters. CONSTITUTIONAL RIGHTS AND OBLIGATIONS. Copies of the SIU Constitution are available in all union halls. All members should obtain copies of this constitution so as to familiarize themselves with its contents. Any time a member feels any other member or officer is attempting to deprive him or her of any constitutional right or obligation by any methods, such as dealing with charges, trials, etc., as well as all other details, the member so affected should immediately notify headquarters. EQUAL RIGHTS. All members are guaranteed equal rights in employment and as members of the SIU. These rights are clearly set forth in the SIU Constitution and in the contracts which the union has negotiated with the employers. Consequently, no member may be discriminated against because of race, creed, color, sex, national or geographic origin. If any member feels that he or she is denied the equal rights to which he or she is entitled, the member should notify union headquarters. the only reason that President Obama was not waiving the Jones Act was that, quote, ‘He was trying to protect his union friends, who are all thugs.’ Rush Limbaugh told his listeners that what the law says in the Jones Act is that the only way you can serve on a ship is if you’re in a union. So there was lots of misinformation. A lot of that problem has been solved in the last couple of months due to everybody’s efforts to correct the record. In fact, pretty much everybody involved in government has admitted the Jones Act was not an impediment. But if we think for one second that there’s no scars left from that experience, we are kidding ourselves.” However, Ruge promised “a significant response from the industry” which already is under way. He thanked the MTD for “being there from the start. There would be no AMP without the Maritime Trades Department.” Talking about a recent message-testing study involving the Jones Act, Ruge said that the average person outside the industry appreciated the economic and national security aspects of the law. The Jones Act helps maintain roughly 500,000 American jobs and pumps billions of dollars into the economy. From a national security standpoint, “Everyone knows that a foreign vessel can safely come into the carefully controlled environment of a U.S. port,” he continued. “But what would happen if the Jones Act was repealed and if foreign vessels could move freely throughout the United States? What really concerned people during our focus groups was the thought of tens of thousands of foreign-controlled vessels, manned by foreign nationals, roaming freely through the navigational bloodstream of our country: under bridges, near cities, near sports stadiums, near schools. “Our task now is to take our message to Capitol Hill. We have an aggressive plan to do that.” SEAFARERS POLITICAL ACTIVITY DONATION — SPAD. SPAD is a separate segregated fund. Its proceeds are used to further its objects and purposes including, but not limited to, furthering the political, social and economic interests of maritime workers, the preservation and furthering of the American merchant marine with improved employment opportunities for seamen and boatmen and the advancement of trade union concepts. In connection with such objects, SPAD supports and contributes to political candidates for elective office. All contributions are voluntary. No contribution may be solicited or received because of force, job discrimination, financial reprisal, or threat of such conduct, or as a condition of membership in the union or of employment. If a contribution is made by reason of the above improper conduct, the member should notify the Seafarers International Union or SPAD by certified mail within 30 days of the contribution for investigation and appropriate action and refund, if involuntary. A member should support SPAD to protect and further his or her economic, political and social interests, and American trade union concepts. NOTIFYING THE UNION — If at any time a member feels that any of the above rights have been violated, or that he or she has been denied the constitutional right of access to union records or information, the member should immediately notify SIU President Michael Sacco at headquarters by certified mail, return receipt requested. The address is: Michael Sacco, President Seafarers International Union 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746. April 2011 �63932_Newsletter_X:January 08 3/25/2011 8:07 PM Page 21 P a u l H a ll C e nt e r U p g ra d ing C o u rs e Sc he d u le The following is the schedule of courses at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md., for the next few months. All programs are geared to improving the job skills of Seafarers and to promoting the American maritime industry. Please note that this schedule may change to reflect the needs of the membership, the maritime industry and—in times of conflict—the nation’s security. Students attending any of these classes should check in the Saturday before their course’s start date. The courses listed here will begin promptly on the morning of the start dates. For classes ending on a Friday, departure reservations should be made for Saturday. Seafarers who have any questions regarding the upgrading courses offered at the Paul Hall Center may call the admissions office at (301) 994-0010. Title of Course AB Fast Rescue Boats April 29 May 16 April 29 June 24 May 6 May 27 May 20 Engine Department FOWT Advanced Container Maintenance Marine Electrician Welding May 30 June 24 April 11 May 5 March 7 May 2 June 27 April 1 May 27 July 22 May 9 July 1 May 9 June 6 May 27 June 24 UPGRADING APPLICATION Name ____________________________________________________________________ Address __________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________ Telephone (Home)_________________________ (Cell)_________________________ Date of Birth ______________________________________________________________ Deep Sea Member Lakes Member Inland Waters Member If the following information is not filled out completely, your application will not be processed. Social Security #_______________________ Book # ____________________________ Seniority_____________________________ Department______________________ Home Port_____________________________________________________________ E-mail________________________________________________________________ Endorsement(s) or License(s) now held______________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________ Are you a graduate of the SHLSS/PHC trainee program? Yes No Have you attended any SHLSS/PHC upgrading courses? Yes No If yes, class # ______________________________________________________________ If yes, course(s) taken_____________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________________ April 2011 Vessel Security Officer May 9 Government Vessels April 25 June 20 Galley Operations/Advanced Galley Operations These modules start every Monday May 16 Basic Auxiliary Plant Ops May 13 April 22 May 6 May 2 May 23 Tank PIC Barge DL BST/Basic Fire Fighting Chief Steward April 18 June 13 ECDIS May 9 May 16 April 1 May 27 May 16 GMDSS Medical Care Provider March 21 May 16 June 24 April 25 Radar Recertification (1 day) May 13 May 27 April 11 ARPA May 2 Safety Upgrading Courses May 16 May 2 Radar Observer Unlimited Date of Completion Date of Completion May 30 STOS Fire Fighting Start Date Start Date Deck Department Water Survival Title of Course MSC Readiness Refresher April 11 May 16 June 13 Steward Department April 11 May 20 May 10 April 29 June 24 April 15 May 20 June 17 May 20 Chief Cook These modules start every other week. The next class is scheduled to begin April 4. Students who have registered for classes at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, but later discover—for whatever reason—that they cannot attend should inform the admissions department immediately so arrangements can be made to have other students take their places. With this application, COPIES of the following must be sent: One hundred and twentyfive (125) days seatime for the previous year, one day in the last six months prior to the date your class starts, USMMD (z-card) front and back or relevant pages of merchant mariner credential, front page of your union book indicating your department and seniority, qualifying seatime for the course if it is Coast Guard tested, 1995 STCW Certificate, valid SHBP Clinic Card and TWIC. COURSE ____________________________ START DATE _______________ DATE OF COMPLETION _______________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________ ____________________________ ____________________________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________ _______________ _______________ _______________ _______________ LAST VESSEL: __________________________________Rating: ______________ Date On: ___________________________ Date Off:________________________ SIGNATURE ________________________________ DATE___________________ NOTE: Transportation will be paid in accordance with the scheduling letter only if you present original receipts and successfully complete the course. If you have any questions, contact your port agent before departing for Piney Point. Not all classes are reimbursable.Return completed application to: Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education Admissions Office, P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674-0075; or fax to (301) 994-2189. The Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education is a private, non-profit, equal opportunity institution and admits students, who are otherwise qualified, of any race, nationality or sex. The school complies with applicable laws with regard to admission, access or treatment of students in its programs or activities. 4/11 Seafarers LOG 21 �63932_Newsletter_X:January 08 3/25/2011 8:08 PM Page 22 P a u l H a l l C en t er C l a s s es Unlicensed Apprentice Water Survival Class 740 – Eighteen unlicensed apprentices com- pleted their training in this 60-hour class Nov. 26. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Jerry Aquino, John Bielamowicz, Mario Botelho, Terence Brenan, Marco Brown, Keith Carswell, Rodney Davis, John Diaz Jr., Theophilus Essien, Richard Flores, William Gibson, Clifton Medley III, Daniel Reynolds Sr., Christopher Sanicola, Cynthia Servance, Derrick Siefre, Adam Smith and Marcus Thornton. Ben Cusic, their instructor, is kneeling at the far right. Small Arms Training – A pair of upgraders completed their requirements in this course Feb. 25. Graduating from the course were George Borromeo (left) and Jim Romeo. The duo received instruction in the safe operation and firing of the pistol, rifle and shotgun. Robbie Springer and Stanley Boothe (not pictured) served as instructors. Welding – Six Seafarers completed the enhancement of their skills in this 103- hour course Feb. 25. Graduating and receiving certificates (above, in alphabetical order) were: Gorden Cherup, Boyko Kovatchev, Jorge Lawrence, Charles Searfass, Tyler Sheff and Scott Thompson. Their instructor, Buzzy Andrews, is standing second from left in the back row. Electronic Chart Display Information System – Six individuals finished their requirements in this course Feb. 18. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Chris Bridges, Lou Cabano, Douglas Carson, William Dunney, Robert Hoffman and Jim Romeo. Class Instructor Brad Wheeler is at the far right. Helo Fire Fighting – Five individuals finished their training in this course Feb. 18. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Steven Blair, George Borromeo, Israel Edmunds, Jonathan Miler and Matthew Sandy. Able Seaman – Twenty-three upgraders finished this course March 4. Graduating and receiving their certifications (above, in alphabetical order) were: Imaad Alhag, David Arcilla, Daryl Balance, Kareem Baxter, Timothy Bradstreet, Amancio Crespo, Jose Crespo, Jaroslav Dvorak, Nathaniel Fitzpatrick, Ricky Gault Jr., Kevin Hanmont, Nita Holly, Ricky Howard, Bryan Howell, Jordache Hunter, John Matichak, Jason Monk, Tyler Peyton, Justin Pierce, Jeremy Sales, Kenneth Stearns, Timothy White and Dannal Wiliams. Stan Beck, their instructor, is at the far right. 22 Seafarers LOG Students who have registered for classes at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, but later discover—for whatever reason—that they cannot attend should inform the admissions department immediately so arrangements can be made to have other students take their places. April 2011 �63932_Newsletter_X:January 08 3/25/2011 8:08 PM Page 23 Pa u l H a l l C e n t e r C l a s s e s Basic and Advanced Fire Fighting – Twenty-three upgraders completed the enhancement of their skills in this course Feb. 18. Graduating (left, in alphabetical order) were: Antuan Barnes, Rigoberto Beata, Apolinardio Calacal, William Carney, Richard Dela Cruz, Hayden Gifford, Michael Hurst, Charles Jensen, Timothy Littles, Samuel Lloyd, George Murphy, Orlando Pabon, Jeremy Pace, Randy Pearson, Reynato Ramos, Paul Russell, Ricky Shumock, Darnell Slayton, Ryan Smith, Davin Tucker, Stacey Twiford, Deralle Watson and Richard Wright. Their instructor, Mike Roberts, is at the far right. Pumpman – The following Seafarers (above, in alphabetical order) completed their train- ing in this course March 4: Therman Ames, Arman Deblois, Patrick Devlin, Alshea Dixon, Kenneth Evett, Martin Hamilton, Dwight Hunt, Michael Iverson, Joseph Jacobs, Gilbert Johnson, Stravon Jordan and Enrique Velez. Jim Shaffer, the class instructor, is at the far right. STOS – Seventeen Seafarers finished their requirements in this course March 4. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Matthew Baptist, Robert Bryson III, Jeremy Cooke, Melissa Gooch, Marques Johnson, William Kane, Robert Mackey, David Marquez, Terry Mattison, Saleh Mohamed, Meree Mused, Bryan Page, Roman Pauley, Jonathan Scalsky, William Smith, Richard Swirtz and Robert Tlalka. Class Instructor Tom Truitt is at the far right. BST (Hawaii) – The following individuals (above, in no particular order) completed this course Feb. 19 at the Seafarers Training Facility in Barbers Point, Hawaii: Samuel Maples, Laura McGowen, Michael Miller, Nicholas Petriella, Wayde Badgley, Steuart Graham III, Michael Shane, Andrew Marunowski, John Del Ray, Melanie Gibson, William Crawford, Jason Igancio, Michael Perez, Christopher Vaughn, Raymond Waggoner, Lee Paonessa and John Hicks Jr. (Note: Not all are pictured.) April 2011 BAPO – Sixteen individuals finished this course March 4. Those graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Mohamed Ahmed, Austin Anderson, Matthew Clements, John Cooper, Rommel Crespo, Dave Cronce, Daniel Cunningham, Joshua Harris, Patrick Kirkland, Anthony Kpodivia, Ali Saeed Musa, Xavier Normil, Valentine Okei, Fidel Paswa, Jose Rivas and Robert Scrivens. Their instructor, Tim Achorn, is at the far right. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Medical Care Provider – The following individuals (above, in alphabetical order) completed this course Feb. 25: Antuan Barnes, Dolores Brown, Apolinario Calacal, William Carney, Richard Dela Cruz, Michael Hurst, Guy Ireland, Charles Jensen, Timothy Littles, Samuel Lloyd, George Murphy, Orlando Pabon, Reynato Ramos, Paul Russell, Ricky Shumock, Darnell Slayton, Ryan Smith, Davin Tucker, Deralle Watson, Richard Wright. Mark Cates, their instructor, is at the far right. BST (Hawaii) – Sixteen individuals graduated from this course Feb. 5 in Hawaii. Those completing the training (above, in no particular order) were: Kari Baline-Ornelas, Eric Ornelas, George Miaris, Vincent Deamon, Balal Darwich, Christopher Newkirk, Yolanda Ramos, Patrick Runyan, Brandon Smith, Andrew Starnes, Kirill Verkhozin, Krystal Murrell, Natalie Varela, Matthew Zeilik, Ronald Lyon Jr., and Joshua Mercer. Seafarers LOG 23 �63932_Newsletter_X:January 08 3/25/2011 8:08 PM Page 24 Volume 73, Number 4 April 2011 Paul Hall Center Course Dates Page 21 Members Back ‘Save Our Seafarers’ Campaign On March 1, major organizations from every segment of the maritime industry announced a new anti-piracy campaign designed to call on governments around the world to do more to protect mariners. Through the International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF), the SIU helped launch the new effort; the union also is helping publicize the campaign through the SIU web site, its social media pages, the Seafarers LOG and at union halls across the country. Part of the campaign involves advertising in a number of major newspapers around the world. The U.S. version of the ad appears on the bottom of this page. Another key component is the new web site www.saveourseafarers.com. Through that site, individuals quickly and easily may write to their elected political representatives and also may keep up with the latest news about piracy. SIU members at various union halls have accessed the site to write to President Obama, asking for increased U.S. backing of anti-piracy efforts. Some of those Seafarers are pictured on this page. See page 3 for related coverage Oakland Algonac This ad has been published in major newspapers and magazines around the world. Tacoma Wilmington Houston � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Seafarers Log Issues 2010-2019 Description An account of the resource Volumes LXXII-LXXXI of the Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Seafarers Log Digital Copies Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 2010-2019 Document A resource containing textual data. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre text. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource April 2011 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES PASHA HAWAII ORDERS NEW RO/RO AKER PHILADELPHIA TO BUILD ADDITIONAL TANKERS MSC ACCEPTS DELIVERY OF NEWEST T-AKE SHIP MTD SPEAKERS UNDERSCORE VITAL NEED FOR ROBUST U.S. MARITIME INDUSTRY INTERNATIONAL GROUPS LAUNCH NEW ANTI-PIRACY CAMPAIGN HORIZON PRODUCER RESCUES STRANDED FISHERMAN MEMBERS EXAMINE, APPROVE SIU’S FINANCIAL RECORDS FOR 2010 UNION URGE STRONGER RULES PROTECTING U.S. MARINERS DEFENDING AGAINST PIRACY COALITION SLATES 2ND ANNUAL MARITIME ‘SAIL-IN’ FOR MAY JAPANESE PORTS RECOVERING GOVERNORS TRAIN SIGHTS ON WORKERS’ RIGHTS UNION MEMBERS RALLY IN WISCONSIN AND ELSEWHERE TO DEFEND WORKING FAMILIES USNS MATTHIESEN DELIVERS FOR ‘DEEP FREEZE’ CMPI 610 NEGOTIATIONS CONTINUE MAERSK CONSTELLATION RESUMES VOYAGE PORT AGENT DIETZ RETIRES SEAFARERS SHINE DURING OCEAN ATLAS DEMO EVENT HIGHLIGHTS IMPORTANCE OF STRONG U.S.-FLAG FLEET, AMERICA’S CARGO PREFERENCE LAWS MILITARY COMMANDERS EMPHASIZE VALUE, RELIABILITY OF U.S. MERCHANT MARINERS POLITICIANS SUPPORT MARITIME, WORKING FAMILIES U.S. COAST GUARD: STURDY ALLIANCE WITH LABOR, SHIP OPERATORS HOLDS KEY TO FUTURE OF MARITIME INDUSTRY POLITICS, COOPERATION REMAIN VITAL TO MARITIME SPEAKERS SEE MARITIME JOB OPPORTUNITIES IN SOMETHING OLD, NEW MEMBERS BACK ‘SAVE OUR SEAFARERS’ CAMPAIGN Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Seafarers Log Digital Copies Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 04/01/2011 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Newsprint Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context Vol. 73, No. 4 2011 Periodicals Seafarers Log http://www.seafarerslog.org/archives/files/original/8defaa05055df325dd0abef179d98ec3.pdf 8d745b55c8dc9576522f4c17f89c3d5e PDF Text Text 64199_Log_May11_X:May 2011 4/24/2011 10:56 PM Page 1 Volume 73, Number 5 May 2011 ‘We Are One’ Union Members Nationwide Mobilize for Workers’ Rights SIU members and officials mobilized for numerous events across the country that were part of the AFLCIO’s “We Are One” campaign – a grassroots effort aimed at protecting the rights of America’s working families. From late March through mid-April, Seafarers joined hundreds of thousands of fellow trade unionists and other supporters at demonstrations in Florida, Texas, Wisconsin, Pennsylvania (photo at left below), Virginia (second photo below, right), Washington State (left) California (immediately below) and elsewhere. Pages 2, 5. (Pictured from left to right in the Virginia photo are AB Julius Morala, SA Chris Carter and SA Merly Ford. Pennsylvania image is an AP photo by Keith Srakocic.) USNS McLean Christened The U.S. Navy’s newest dry cargo/ammunition ship, the USNS William McLean (photo at right), was christened and launched April 16 in San Diego. The vessel’s unlicensed slots will be filled by members of the SIU Government Services Division. In photo at near right, guests attending the christening ceremony render honors as the Marine Corps Air Station Miramar Color Guard parades the colors. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Alan Gragg) Page 4. Maersk to Operate Stockham, Wheat Government Services Division News Pages 4, 10, 13 Page 2 Seafarers Pension Plan Funding Notice Page 11 �64199_Log_May11:May 2011 4/20/2011 6:36 PM Page 2 P re s i d e n t ’ s R e p o r t More on State-Level Fights Much has been written and said about the state-level attacks on workers’ rights that started earlier this year in Wisconsin and then spread like a fungus to Indiana, Ohio and elsewhere. But, as hundreds of thousands of union members rallied all across the country, it didn’t take long to expose the supposed deficit hawks behind those attacks as hypocrites. Their tactics boil down to nothing more than attempts to cripple public-sector unions. We know these schemes well. Many of the same pundits promoting these new attacks were the same ones calling to eliminate the Jones Act last year, after the Deepwater Horizon explosion. Wisconsin is an appallingly representative example. As more than one commentator pointed out, that state’s governor proposed to fix financial problems Michael Sacco that were not caused by workers or their unions, by harshly cutting public employees’ pay and killing their collecting bargaining rights. If that particular legislative approach initially didn’t seem to make sense, things became clearer after the unions agreed to accept pay cuts if they could retain their collective bargaining rights – but the governor was unmoved. As one political writer put it, the way to break the impasse was to “drop the pretense that this was about the budget. They stripped out all the actual fiscal items from the law and hastily passed a bill that simply went after the unions. This was just the final step in removing any doubt about the true nature of this fight.” That point was backed up – unintentionally, I assume – by the Wisconsin State Senate president, who basically said this was an effort to defund unions and their political and lobbying operations. Yep, it’s all about balancing the budget. Where the actual financial shortfalls exist, union workers throughout modern history repeatedly have demonstrated a strong willingness to pitch in, to bear some of the burden even though they weren’t necessarily to blame in the first place. Along those lines, nowadays we often hear that “everything must be on the table” and “everyone has to sacrifice” if we are to bring down the deficit. But not everything is on the table and not everyone is being asked to sacrifice. Workers’ rights, their unions, and time-tested social safety nets are front-and-center in the crosshairs. At the same time, we get a steady diet of commentary claiming that tax cuts for the rich would be the best way to stimulate job growth. Never mind the fact that there is no credible evidence whatsoever that such cuts lead to job creation. Elected representatives carry on touting this approach as if it would be a nationwide cure-all. Yet the New York Times wrote last month in a front-page article that major American companies – in particular General Electric – reported billions in profits, but didn’t pay anything – not even a cent – in 2009 income taxes. The American public has caught on to the latest anti-worker charades, but these fights are far from finished. I commend the Seafarers who’ve participated in demonstrations all over the country and I urge you to continue answering the call to help stand up for our union brothers and sisters, including our own CIVMARS from the Government Services Division. I’d also remind everyone that there are still plenty of politicians who understand the true nature and value of organized labor. As Massachusetts Governor Deval Patrick said in a recent letter to state employees there, “Unions are good – and they can be part of the solution. Our public-sector unions have demonstrated over and over again their and your willingness to work with us to build a stronger Commonwealth. From pension reform to transportation and education reform to wage concessions to help us close the budget gap, you and your union leadership have been our partners….” Those comments hit the mark for unions as a whole. They also underscore the value of electing people who – quite accurately – see us that way. Volume 73, Number 5 May 2011 The SIU on line: www.seafarers.org The Seafarers-crewed USNS Stockham is part of a program described by MSC as “an essential element in the U.S. military’s readiness strategy.” SIU Retains Jobs on USNS Stockham, USNS Wheat as Maersk Wins Contract SIU jobs are secure aboard the prepositioning vessels USNS LCPL Roy M. Wheat and USNS GYSGT Fred W. Stockham following an April 1 announcement by the U.S. Navy’s Military Sealift Command (MSC) that Maersk Line, Limited won contracts to operate and maintain those vessels. If all options are exercised, the contract periods for the USNS Wheat and the USNS Stockham will extend into 2015. According to communications from MSC, the Wheat is expected to transfer to Maersk around early October, while the Stockham is slated to change hands in early July. Both ships already carry SIU crews. “Maersk Line, Limited’s (MLL) support of maritime prepositioning ships goes back to 1983 when we converted five commercial vessels and operated them for 25 years. We’re pleased that MSC has recognized the value of our service and has entrusted us with these ships,” said Scott Cimring, MLL’s senior director of government ship management. “We’re ready and excited by the opportunity to continue serving the nation.” Maersk won contracts for these ships and others in May 2010, but a protest was filed shortly thereafter. MSC rebid a total of 10 prepositioning vessels; at press time, the agency hadn’t announced the awards for the remaining eight ships (the USNS 2nd Lt. John P. Bobo, USNS Sgt. William R. Button, USNS 1st Lt. Jack Lummus, USNS PFC Dewayne T. SIU members will continue sailing aboard the prepositioning ship USNS Wheat. Williams, USNS 1st Lt. Baldomero Lopez, USNS Sgt. Matej Kocak, PFC Eugene A. Obregon and USNS Maj. Stephen W. Pless). According to MSC, the prepositioning program “is an essential element in the U.S. military’s readiness strategy. Afloat prepositioning strategically places military equipment and supplies aboard ships located in key ocean areas to ensure rapid availability during a major theater war, a humanitarian operation or other contingency. MSC’s 31 prepositioning ships support the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps and Defense Logistics Agency.” Exclusively civilian-crewed, prepositioning vessels “provide quick and efficient movement of military gear between operating areas without reliance on other nations’ transportation networks,” MSC pointed out. “These ships give U.S. regional combatant commanders the assurance that they will have what they need to quickly respond in a crisis – anywhere, anytime.” Horizon Lines Attempting to Navigate Financial Struggles SIU-contracted Horizon Lines is in the midst of financial turbulence, but the company is working to not only stay afloat but also strongly rebound, according to repeated communications from Horizon executives to the union. “As far as we are concerned, when it comes to the day-to-day operations aboard Horizon ships, it’s still business as usual,” stated SIU Executive Vice President Augie Tellez. “We are in nearly constant contact with the company and they have made it quite clear that they’re committed to working through their issues.” Besides feeling the effects of the recession, Horizon Lines (which has a fleet of 20 U.S.-flag ships) recently agreed to pay a $45 million fine under the Sherman Act related to certain operations that took place from 2002-2008. As for the rough economy, Horizon Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer Brian W. Taylor stated, “The fourth-quarter (of 2010) turned out to be very challenging, due to lower-than-anticipated volumes in Hawaii, particularly in the latter months of the quarter, increased fuel prices, continuing rate pressures in Puerto Rico and anticipated start-up costs related to our new China service.” Michael T. Avara, executive vice president and chief financial officer, added, “We expect the seasonal weakness typical in the first quarter to be exaggerated by start-up costs associated with our new China service and the corresponding loss of steady monthto-month revenue from our previous TP1 agreement with Maersk, but we also anticipate improving growth as the year progresses. Our progress in 2011 will continue to be influenced by the pace and breadth of economic recovery in our trade lanes, the success of our start-up in China, and the continued high fuel costs and ongoing pricing pressures in Puerto Rico.” The Seafarers LOG (ISSN 1086-4636) is published monthly by the Seafarers International Union; Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU, AFLCIO; 5201 Auth Way; Camp Springs, MD 20746. Telephone (301) 899-0675. Periodicals postage paid at Southern Maryland 20790-9998. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to the Seafarers LOG, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. Communications Director, Jordan Biscardo; Managing Editor/Production, Jim Guthrie; Assistant Editor, Paddy Lehane; Photographer, Mike Hickey; Administrative Support, Misty Dobry. Copyright © 2011 Seafarers International Union, AGLIWD. All Rights Reserved. The Seafarers International Union engaged an environmentally friendly printer for the production of this newspaper. In addition to operating U.S.-flag containerships, the company runs five port terminals linking the continental United States with Alaska, Hawaii, Guam, Micronesia and Puerto Rico. 2 Seafarers LOG May 2011 �64199_Log_May11:May 2011 4/20/2011 5:36 PM Page 3 UN Backs Piracy Courts; SOS Campaign Continues Recognizing the need for further steps to boost anti-piracy efforts, the United Nations Security Council on April 11 supported the idea of special courts to try suspected pirates both in Somalia and elsewhere in the region. In a unanimously adopted resolution, the 15-member council, meeting in New York, stressed the need for “a comprehensive response to tackle piracy and its underlying causes by the international community.” The group outlined a wide array of measures to more effectively counter what it described as “the scourge of piracy.” Meanwhile, the SIU and its rank-andfile membership continued actively supporting the recently launched “Save Our Seafarers” (SOS) campaign – a global effort backed by major maritime organizations from all segments of the industry. Among other components, the campaign includes prominent advertising and a regularly updated web site (www.saverourseafarers.com) featuring the latest piracy news a user-friendly form facilitating contact with politicians whose attention is needed to help fight piracy. As reported when the movement kicked off in early March, the campaign has six specific goals: reducing the effectiveness of the easily identifiable pirate mother ships; authorizing naval forces to detain pirates and deliver them for prosecution and punishment; fully criminalizing all acts of piracy and intent to commit piracy under national laws in accordance with their mandatory duty to cooperate to suppress piracy under international conventions; increasing naval assets available to fight piracy; providing greater protection and support for seafarers; and tracing and criminalizing the organizers and financiers behind the criminal networks. Campaign sponsors include the following organizations, which collectively represent virtually every part of the global maritime industry: International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF, to which the SIU is affiliated); Baltic and International Maritime Council (BIMCO); International Chamber of Shipping (ICS); International Shipping Federation (ISF); International Association of Dry Cargo Shipowners (Intercargo); and International Association of Independent Tanker Owners (INTERTANKO). The aforementioned UN Security Council resolution asked UN SecretaryGeneral Ban Ki-moon to report back within two months on the most effective ways to prosecute suspected pirates. Currently, most of the ones who are captured eventually are released because there isn’t a viable way to put them on trial. The six-page document said the council “decides to urgently consider the establishment of specialized Somali courts to try suspected pirates both in Somalia and in the region, including an extraterritorial Somali specialized antipiracy court.” The resolution also called on nations to cooperate on combating hostage-taking and to criminalize piracy under their respective domestic laws. The statement further asked for cooperation from member States to act upon “the need to investigate and prosecute those who illicitly finance, plan, organize, or unlawfully profit from pirate attacks off UN Security Council members unanimously adopt a resolution calling for stronger steps against piracy. the Somali coast.” In its previous resolutions, the council has authorized States and regional organizations to enter Somalia’s territorial waters and use “all necessary means” to fight piracy, such as deploying naval vessels and military aircraft, as well as seizing and disposing of boats, vessels, arms and related equipment used for piracy. In the text adopted last month, it recognized that the ongoing instability in Somalia is one of the underlying causes of the problem of piracy and armed robbery at sea off the coast of the Horn of Africa nation. “Somalia – which has not had a functioning central government since 1991 – has been torn apart by decades of conflict and factional strife, more recently with alShabaab Islamic militants,” the UN reported when it announced its most recent antipiracy declaration. “The country is also facing a dire humanitarian crisis in which 2.4 million people are in need of assistance.” During a single day in April, 77 members at the hall in Jacksonville, Fla., (photo above) completed the online form at the Save Our Seafarers site. In the photo at right, SIU members at the hall in Honolulu, Hawaii, line up to utilize the SOS web site. Pictured from left to right are Vicente Molina, Ernest Dumont, Elizabeth Tizon, Debra Cannella and Shawn Canon. Lantz Gets Nod as U.S. Nominee for IMO Post Jeffrey Lantz tells the MTD executive board the Coast Guard “is committed to working with labor and we appreciate the help you’ve given us.” May 2011 Both the U.S. Department of State and the U.S. Coast Guard in late March reported that Jeffrey Lantz is the United States nominee for secretary-general of the International Maritime Organization (IMO). The IMO in June is scheduled to elect a new secretary-general to succeed Efthimios E. Mitropoulos, who has held the position since 2003. Lantz, the Coast Guard’s director for commercial regulations and standards, recently addressed the executive board of the Maritime Trades Department, AFL-CIO. In its announcement, the State Department described the U.S. as having “been a key participant in and supporter of the IMO since its establishment in 1948.” Lantz is “uniquely qualified” to serve as secretary-general, according to the department. The Coast Guard also offered strong support for his nomination, which is backed by American maritime labor. “Jeff is one of the Coast Guard’s best senior leaders who has superbly managed commercial maritime regulation with the care and precision it requires,” said Coast Guard Commandant Adm. Bob Papp. “He is a skilled engineer, effective manager and strong negotiator who has demonstrated a keen ability to lead and overcome budgetary and technical challenges over his 36-year career. These strong regulatory and supervisory abilities have enabled him to greatly improve the quality of U.S. commercial shipping. I am absolutely certain he will deliver the same quality and competency if elected as secretarygeneral of the International Maritime Organization.” Lantz’s Coast Guard background includes more than 25 years of active duty. Currently, he is responsible for helping develop U.S. national maritime safety and environmental protection regulations and policies. He also has long been engaged with IMO issues, and currently serves as head of the U.S. delegation to the organization’s principal technical bodies, the Maritime Safety Committee and the Marine Environment Protection Committee. Lantz also chairs the IMO Council, the organization’s second-highest governing body. The IMO is a specialized agency of the United Nations, responsible for measures aimed at boosting the safety and security of international shipping and preventing marine pollution from vessels. It is also involved in legal matters, including liability and compensation issues and the facilitation of international maritime traffic. It currently has 169 member states, including the U.S. Seafarers LOG 3 �64199_Log_May11_X:May 2011 4/24/2011 10:56 PM Page 4 USNS William McLean Launched in San Diego Newest T-AKE Vesssel Will Join Government Services Division Fleet The U.S. Navy launched its newest Lewis and Clark (T-AKE) class ship, the USNS William McLean, on April 16 at the General Dynamics NASSCO shipyard in San Diego. The William McLean is the 12th of 14 T-AKE dry cargo/ammunition supply ships that are an important component of the SIU-manned Military Sealift Command (MSC) fleet. The new vessel will be crewed in the unlicensed slots by members of the SIU Government Services Division. “I am honored to represent then 9,000 men and women of MSC tonight as we christen the 12th dry cargo/ammunition ship to join MSC’s fleet,” said Rear Adm. Mark H. Buzby, commander, MSC, who delivered the keynote address at the vessel launch. “USNS William McLean and her MSC mariners will be indispensible.” The ship’s namesake, William Burdette McLean, was a physicist with the Navy who is credited with developing the Sidewinder missile. The Sidewinder missile is one of the most iconic and significant weapons in the Navy’s arsenal. It set the standard for heat-seeking, air-to-air missiles, and upgraded and alternative models are still in use today. McLean started his career testing ordnance equipment at the National Bureau of Standards in Washington, D.C. After the end of World War II, he moved on to the Naval Ordnance Test Station in China Lake, Calif., where he led the project team developing the Sidewinder missile. In 1954, he was appointed technical director of the station and held that position until 1967. He then was promoted to technical director for the U.S. Navy’s submarine-warfare research center in San Diego until 1974. McLean passed away in 1976. More than 1,000 people gathered at the NASSCO shipyard (a union-contracted facility) to witness the nighttime launching of the 689-foot ship. Margaret Taylor, McLean’s eldest niece, served as the ship’s sponsor and continued a longstanding Navy tradition of christening a vessel by breaking a bottle of champagne on the ship’s bow. The USNS William McLean (T-AKE 12) slides into the water for the first time during the ship’s launch and christening ceremony April 16 at the General Dynamics NASSCO shipyard in San Diego. (Photo by Sarah E. Burford, Military Sealift Command Pacific) Construction started on the William McLean on March 26, 2010. The vessel is designed for long-range, independent sea travel and has the capacity to carry two helicopters and their crews. The ship can move more than Members Vote on Extension For Standard Agreements At the union halls and aboard ships, Seafarers are voting on a proposal to extend the standard freightship and tanker agreements by one year. Voting began at special membership meetings conducted at the halls on April 14 and is continuing on vessels. Companies covered by the standard contracts include Alaska Tanker Co., Horizon Lines, Interocean American Shipping, OSG Tankers, and Maersk Line, Limited. Collectively, they form the American Maritime Association. SIU Vice President Contracts George Tricker said that the initial voting was overwhelmingly in favor of extending the standard agreements to June 30, 2012. Originally, the pacts were set to expire June 30 of this year. However, due to the rocky economy and also in part because of uncertain expenses related to compliance with new health-care regulations, the union recommended the extension. The tentative memorandum of understanding between the union and the association stipulates that if any company signatory to the standard contracts should, during the course of the proposed extension, agree to any newly negotiated increases in wages, wage-related items or fringe benefits with any other maritime union, then that company agrees to meet with the SIU to negotiate the wages and/or benefit payments made to and on behalf of its unlicensed crew. 10,000 tons of food, fuel, ammunition, and other supplies and has the ability to reach speeds of 20 knots. Following its launch, the William McLean is set to undergo sea trials and is expected to be delivered to the Navy for use at full capacity later this year. According to MSC, T-AKE class ships play various important roles in the agency’s mission. Overall, 11 of the 14 vessels are designated to serve as Combat Logistics Force (CLF) ships. CLF vessels play an integral part in the Navy’s mission by providing necessary supplies to U.S. ships stationed at sea around the world. The remaining ships will serve in the Maritime Prepositioning Force. “We at NASSCO are proud of the role the USNS William McLean will play in support of the U.S. Navy,” said Fred Harris, president of NASSCO and former union mariner. “This ship joins a distinguished tradition of NASSCO-built or modified ships bound for service under the direction of the Navy’s Military Sealift Command.” Besides the McLean, the current T-AKE ships are the USNS Lewis and Clark, USNS Sacagawea, USNS Alan Shepard, USNS Richard E. Byrd, USNS Robert E. Peary, USNS Amelia Earhart, USNS Carl Brashear, USNS Wally Schirra, USNS Matthew Perry, USNS Charles Drew, and USNS Washington Chambers. According to MSC, the vessels are “designed and constructed to commercial specifications and standards and certified/classed by the American Bureau of Shipping, United States Coast Guard, and other regulatory bodies.” U.S. Maritime Industry Rallies to Prevent Larger Cuts to Food Aid The maritime industry made its presence known in the federal budget fight this past month. As Congress has grappled with how to cut spending and reduce the deficit, one of maritime’s key programs – the PL-480 Food for Peace program – came under attack, with opponents proposing an almost $800 million cut. After a lot of hard work by the SIU and the other seafaring unions, along with SIU-contracted operators and trade associations, the industry was able to halt – at least temporarily – the proposed cuts to the program. H.R. 1, the first proposed funding bill for the rest of 2011, included a 42 percent cut to the PL-480 program. Because the U.S. currently is in the middle of the funding year, that 42 percent cut would have effectively ended the PL-480 program for the rest of 2011, and would have made it significantly harder to ensure the program was properly funded in next year’s federal budget. Thanks to the effective work of representatives from the SIU, the Seafarers-affiliated American Maritime Officers (AMO), a number of Seafarers-contracted com- 4 Seafarers LOG panies and industry trade groups, the final spending bill for 2011 passed with most of the cuts to PL-480 restored. Instead of a proposed 42 percent cut, the program received the same cut as other non-Defense government programs, 11.6 percent. Given the current climate on Capitol Hill, this was no small achievement, according to SIU Legislative Director Brian W. Schoeneman. He added that while next year’s budget has yet to be decided, the battle over Food Aid demonstrates that the SIU and others from the maritime community have the ears of members of Congress who need to know the importance of a U.S.-flag fleet. Food Aid programs like PL-480 that support the maritime industry are tied directly to merchant mariners and American-flag shipping through cargo preference laws. Cargo preference is a key federal support mechanism for the maritime industry, ensuring that government cargo is moved on American ships with American crews. It’s also vital to U.S. economic and national security, by ensuring that American ships have the cargo they need to support American jobs in peacetime. The various cargo preference laws have created and maintained thousands of middleclass jobs for American workers for more than 100 years. The PL-480 program is one of the oldest and most widely supported foreign aid programs. Since 1954, it has provided needed food to millions of starving people in Africa and across the globe. Commodities are purchased from American farmers and sent overseas on U.S.-flag ships with American crews, where the grain is distributed to needy people. PL-480 provides jobs at home and goodwill abroad. While SIU and the rest of the maritime industry were able to hold off substantial cuts to PL-480 in this year’s funding bill, Congress will soon be taking up the FY2012 budget and the annual appropriations bills, where the union expects another fight over PL-480. As always, the SIU will remain vigilant in protecting members’ job security and the maritime industry in general, and will work with Congress to ensure the maintenance of a strong U.S. Merchant Marine. May 2011 �64199_Log_May11:May 2011 4/20/2011 5:36 PM Page 5 Dozens of Seafarers including those pictured above marched on the Washington State Capitol grounds in Olympia. Labor boasted a strong turnout for the We Are One event in Olympia, Wash. Union Members Mobilize for ‘We Are One’ Seafarers Join Rallies to Defend Workers’ Rights Seafarers from around the country recently participated in an AFL-CIO campaign aimed at drawing attention to the assault on middle class workers and their rights. The “We Are One” campaign brought hundreds of thousands of working people and their supporters together at rallies, teach-ins, speeches and other events throughout the United States and abroad. The “We Are One” events were based around the anniversary of the assassination of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Dr. King, who was gunned down April 4, 1968 in Memphis, Tenn., was supporting sanitation workers in that city who were striking for better pay and working conditions. Evoking the memory of Dr. King and his efforts on behalf of workers’ rights, Seafarers mobilized and called for a halt on the attacks on workers in Wisconsin, Ohio, Florida, Indiana and elsewhere. Many of the demonstrations took place April 4, but there were related rallies in late March and later in April. On March 26, Seafarers in Los Angeles joined fellow trade unionists and other backers to demand good jobs and to stand with workers in Wisconsin who are suffering from vicious anti-working-family attacks. More than 20,000 people attended the rally, which was called one of the largest in recent memory in the Los Angeles area. “This is an emergency we have in Wisconsin and across the U.S.,” said Mahlon Mitchell, president of the Professional Firefighters of Wisconsin, who travelled to Los Angeles to gather support from workers in California. “This is about an attack on the middle class. We need to reclaim our moral outrage ... because we are in the battle of a lifetime.” SIU members from the Norfolk, Va., area joined rallies conducted by fellow union workers as well. On March 26, workers met in front of the United Brotherhood of Carpenters Local 613 in Thousands gather in Los Angeles to stand up for fellow workers from Wisconsin and elsewhere. May 2011 Norfolk to voice their opposition to the dangerous attacks on public-sector workers and to stand up for the American middle class. Maritime workers were represented at an April 1 rally in Waynesburg, Pa., that had more than 5,000 in attendance. The rally, organized by the United Mine Workers of America (UMWA) and supported by the SIU and other labor and community groups, commemorated the life and work of Dr. King and also the lives of mine workers lost on the job. The moment of silence observed for fallen mine workers hit close to home at this rally. April 5 marked the first anniversary of the Upper Big Branch mine disaster. The disaster took the lives of 29 nonunion workers in what has since been deemed an accident that could have been prevented with proper enforcement of safety regulations by the company, Massey Energy. The speakers reminded the attendees that what’s happening to public-sector workers in Wisconsin has lasting and dangerous implications for workers everywhere and in all sectors. “I got news for you,” said Cecil Roberts, president of the UMWA. “Today it’s the public employees, tomorrow it’s the steelworkers. Tomorrow it’s the autoworkers. Tomorrow it’s the coal miners. Now is the time to stand up and fight back.” On April 8, some three-dozen Seafarers marched on the grounds of the Washington State Capitol in Olympia, Wash., along with an estimated 12,000 fellow union members and other supporters. It was believed to have been the largest rally in that state in at least a decade. “Seafarers understand the slogan, ‘An injury to one is an injury to all.’ They understand that the plight of the publicsector employees is not separate from their own,” said SIU Tacoma Port Agent Holding signs promoting workers’ rights, SIU members from the Tacoma, Wash., hall team up with fellow trade unionists. Joe Vincenzo. “They further understand that the political agenda set to bust unions is not simply ideological but all too real. It’s about bread and butter.” Before the We Are One campaign had been announced, Seafarers in Wisconsin and Texas also took part in demonstrations for public-sector workers. Collectively, the events have created an atmosphere of excitement and hope for the future, despite the gravity of the situation in Wisconsin and elsewhere, according to the AFL-CIO. Richard Trumka, president of the labor Port Agent Georg Kenny (holding Equality For All sign) and Recertified Steward John Reid (first white cap on the right) help carry the union message in Norfolk, Va. federation, believes that leaders in Washington will begin to take notice of the power of the working class united in solidarity and will take a pro-working family stance on issues now and in the years to come. “This is a spontaneous, bottom-up, grassroots movement, and it is truly a wonder,” Trumka said. “Anybody who has been to any of these states can tell you that the energy of the protesters is infectious and their solidarity and commitment are inspiring. This has all the makings of a powerful, lasting political movement.” Besides Seafarers, members from the IBEW, ILA, UA and other unions took part in the rally in Norfolk, Va. Seafarers LOG 5 �64199_Log_May11:May 2011 4/20/2011 5:36 PM Page 6 New GMDSS Equipment Provides Enhanced Training The SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md., has obtained some new and exciting equipment designed to keep students up to speed with ever-changing maritime safety technology. The equipment is utilized in the Global Marine Distress Safety System (GMDSS) course. The new gear is the latest and the best available, according to school officials, and will help provide mariners who take the GMDSS course at the school with an enhanced opportunity to learn. The equipment, procured from the Transas Group, is the same used at the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy at Kings Point. It’s a requirement for any navigational watch officer operating vessels over 300 gross tons on international voyages or passenger vessels with more than six passengers to be GMDSS certified, as stipulated by the International Maritime Organization. GMDSS certification is a must for many mariners looking to advance their careers, and also is important because of its potential use in case of an emergency. “It’s an essential and useful tool,” says AB Sam Lloyd. “ABs that are trained in GMDSS could help save lives. More people trained in GMDSS and the better it’s operated can only help get out a distress SIU VP Gulf Coast Dean Corgey and Texas State Rep. Ana Hernandez took part in the parade March 26. signal if necessary.” The equipment provides students with an opportunity to diversify their knowledge of many different brands of GMDSS systems. Because of the advanced technology, students can simulate making distress calls on virtually any brand of GMDSS system. This knowledge presents definite benefits, not only for unlicensed crew members looking to advance their careers, but also for all aboard a vessel because of the related increased safety. The GMDSS certification class is a two-week, 70-hour course and is described by many as one of the more challenging and rewarding classes available at the Paul Hall Center. Lloyd quickly learned that passing would be no easy feat. “The instructor was very knowledgeable in training us, but it was a very intense class,” said Lloyd, who is trying to become a mate. “You need to study and work hard if you want to pass.” The importance of GMDSS certification for career advancement cannot be stated enough, according to class instructor Brad Wheeler. “Officers in charge of navigational watch need to know this,” Wheeler said. “They (Seafarers) are not going to be able to sail on any of our ships as a mate with- Students in the Paul Hall Center’s GMDSS class take advantage of the school’s modern equipment. out being GMDSS certified.” Paul Hall Center Director of Training J.C. Wiegman added, “With this and other state-of-the-art equipment here at the school and some of the best instructors in U.S. Rep. Gene Green (D-Texas) (eighth from left) is pictured with SIU participants in the parade honoring Cesar Chavez, including VP Gulf Coast Dean Corgey, Port Agent Mike Russo and members Manuel Pena, Oscar Lacayo, Tino Guity, German Guevarra, Manuel Martinez, Donald Clotter, Alfrancis Bauzon, Andy Beach, Juan Marin, Mario Romero, Ismael Castillo, Luis Ruiz and Felipe Nunez. the business, upgraders taking GMDSS have opportunities in front of them to continue living up to their reputation as the hardest-working and best-trained merchant mariner in the world.” Joining the festivities in memory of Cesar Chavez were SIU VP Gulf Coast Dean Corgey (right) and Texas State Rep. Armando Walle. Active in the Port of Houston Seafarers and SIU officials recently participated in a parade honoring the legacy of the late United Farm Workers President and civil-rights activist Cesar Chavez. Days later, Seafarers demonstrated in support of local janitors who are members of the Service Employees International Union. Seafarer Earns Horizon Safety Award Port Agent Mike Russo (right in photo above) shows his support for fellow union members. In photo above at right, Safety Director Brian Kinard (center) helps drum up support for union workers, as did SIU ITF Representative Shwe Aung and Seafarer Joe Zavala. 6 Seafarers LOG SA Mohamed N. Omar (left, with Chief Mate Doug Nemeth) recently was recognized as the “Safety Sailor” of the month, as part of an ongoing Horizon Lines program. He received a $50 gift card for his safety contributions aboard the Horizon Enterprise, according to Ron Radicali, the vessel’s master. Radicali said Omar, who has completed safety classes at the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md., was nominated by Recertified Steward Bill Bryley “for his outstanding work ethic and diligence towards maintaining a safe work environment. He was observed on more than one occasion taking the initiative to remedy potentially unsafe hazards before others noticed, and before being instructed to do so. This proactive approach and his positive disposition truly make him a role model.” May 2011 �64199_Log_May11_X:May 2011 4/24/2011 10:56 PM Page 7 Stewards Capitalize on Upgrading Opportunities Six Seafarers Complete Recertification Course at Paul Hall Center Six SIU members, each of whom sails in the steward department, recently realized the most significant upgrading achievement to date in their respective careers when they graduated from the steward recertification course at the union-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. Considered the highest training available to union steward department personnel, the three-week steward recertification curriculum encompasses hands-on training, classroom instruction and meetings with representatives from different departments of the SIU and the Seafarers Plans. Among the course’s components are ServSafe, which focuses on safe and sanitary galley operations; first aid and CPR; galley fire fighting; leadership and management skills; computer training; nutrition; and communications. Graduating from the most recent class and receiving their credentials April 4 during the union’s monthly membership meeting in Piney Point were Stewards Samuel Harris, John Huyett, Roslyn Johnson, Kenneth McHellen, Osvaldo Ramos and Ahmed Sharif. In keeping with a longstanding custom, each of the new recertified stewards addressed union officials, fellow upgraders, unlicensed apprentices and guests who attended the meeting. Johnson was the first to address the audience. A Seafarer since 1989, she sails out of the port of Norfolk, Va., and has upgraded at the Southern Maryland-based campus on five previous occasions. Johnson told those in attendance that her experiences at Piney Point have provided her a wonderful past and present and a future that she will always embrace and be eternally grateful for. “I think that the SIU saved my life,” Johnson said as she reflected back on a very difficult period of her life before joining the union. “I had gone through a horrible divorce, had lost everything, was flat broke, had no home … no money … and no husband. I was hurt, lost and very confused.” At that point, Johnson said, she discovered the union and the myriad of opportunities it offered. Not long thereafter she made her life-altering decision to join the SIU. And from that point on, her life began changing for the better. “I love myself some SIU,” she said. “I have learned that there is a bigger picture behind the picture that most of us Roslyn Johnson delivered a highly emotional speech to the membership. Johnson was the first of the union’s newest recertified stewards to address the audience. May 2011 SIU officials joined the recertified stewards in the Paul Hall Center’s auditorium following the membership meeting for the photo above. Kneeling from left to right are John Huyett, Ahmed Sharif and Recertified Bosun Rafael Clemente (husband of Roslyn Johnson). Standing are VP Government Services Kermett Mangram, Kenneth McHellen, Osvaldo Ramos, VP Atlantic Coast Joseph Soresi, Executive VP Augie Tellez, Samuel Harris, Roslyn Johnson, President Michael Sacco, VP Contracts George Tricker and SecretaryTreasurer David Heindel. see when we think about the union,” she said. “The SIU is constantly growing, moving forward and doing everything possible to provide quality jobs for its membership. All of our leadership here on the dais— President Sacco and the remainder of our team—are doing a wonderful job on our behalf and we owe them our thanks and continued support.” Johnson then expressed her appreciation to a number of individuals who in her words never lost faith and confidence in her throughout the years. Singled out were union officials and staff members at the port of Norfolk, Va., including SIU Vice President Government Services Kermett Mangram, Port Agent Georg Kenny and Safety Director Sam Spain. “They always believed in me as a person and provided me with encouragement,” Johnson said. She also articulated her gratitude to members of the steward department at the school and the Piney Point staff for the tremendous learning experience she had during her recertification training. “I learned a great deal while here thanks to our instructors and staff,’ she said. “I look forward to taking it back to the ships and using it to help my fellow brothers and sisters.” Addressing the trainees and upgraders, Johnson championed perseverance. “Whatever your future is in this business, don’t ever give up because it will pay off,” she said. “This (the school) is the best opportunity that you could possibly have. I encourage each of you to take full advantage of it and allow it to help you develop and realize your goals. And if you do that, there’s no doubt that you will be successful.” Sharif was next to take the podium. He hails from the port of Seattle and joined the SIU in 1982. After greeting members of the dais and his rank-and-file brothers and sisters, Sharif talked about the road he traveled en route to becoming an SIU member. “I was with the United Auto Workers in 1970 and after being laid off went to California and worked on the farms,” he said. “I worked there for a couple of days and met some of the United Farm Workers organizers who offered me a position as a translator. “There were a lot of Arab workers there at the time and very few spoke English,” Sharif continued. “At the time, I was young and had few real responsibilities, so I accepted the work.” Sharif said he remained in California for a significant period of time, all the while learning more about the labor movement, meeting prominent organizers including United Farm Workers founder the late Cesar Chavez, and organizing workers himself. It was all very gratifying to him, yet Sharif felt he was missing something. “So I joined the SIU in 1982,” he said. “I am a second-generation sailor and I got my start as crew messman. Two years later I came to Piney Point for the first time to upgrade to third cook, second cook and baker.” Several years later, Sharif again returned to the school to enhance his skills as a chief cook, certified chief cook and steward. “This is my fifth time here,” he told the audience, “and now I am finally a recertified steward.” Reflecting on his latest upgrading experience, Sharif said that some of the recertification course’s most useful instruction involved the ServSafe module. “The ServSafe training was very helpful to me,” he said. “It helped me gain a better understanding of my job on the ship and how to do it in a safe way. I recommend that this course be taken by everyone who sails in the steward department. “I would like to thank everyone who made this possible for me, especially President Sacco, Executive Vice President (Augie) Tellez, Secretary-Treasurer (David) Heindel and Vice President Contracts (George) Tricker,” Sharif continued. “I am also grateful to the all of the instructors as well as the ladies at headquarters for all of the information they presented. The staff here at the school also worked very hard to keep things running smoothly.” Sharif concluded his remarks by telling the trainees to work hard and strive to be good role models for the union when they graduate and go aboard ships. McHellen, whose home port is Jacksonville, Fla., signed on with the SIU in 1985. Since becoming a union member, he has upgraded his skills on one previous occasion at Piney Point. He described the steward recertification class as “a very good and informative experience.” Prior to coming back to the union-affiliated maritime training facility, McHellen said he had mixed feelings about the See Stewards, Page 20 VP George Tricker (right) spent time with the stewards during the days leading up to their graduation. In photo above Tricker speaks to (from left to right) to Samuel Harris, John Huyett, Roslyn Johnson and Osvaldo Ramos. Seafarers LOG 7 �64199_Log_May11:May 2011 4/20/2011 5:36 PM Page 8 Longtime MTD/SIU Official Pecquex Retires N.Y. Native ‘Devoted His Entire Life to the Labor Movement’ Frank Pecquex, executive secretary-treasurer for the Maritime Trades Department (MTD) and longtime SIU employee, has announced his retirement after decades of service to workers in the maritime industry. Pecquex has held his position since 1993 and has worked with the MTD (a constitutional department of the AFL-CIO) and the SIU since the late 1960s. “Frank devoted his entire life to the labor movement,” said SIU President Michael Sacco, who is also the MTD president. “He developed better implementation of MTD policy through state federations, port councils, and the AFL-CIO at large. He’s had a long and truly distinguished career with both the SIU and the MTD. We owe him a lot. Frank will be sorely missed and I wish him the very best in his retirement.” Pecquex, a New York native, began his life in the labor movement as a Greyhound ticket-taker at the World’s Fair grounds in 1964. He joined the Amalgamated Transit Union that year. He also worked at an A&P bakery during his teenage years and was a member of the Bakery, Confectionery, Tobacco Workers and Grain Millers International Union. Pecquex went on to graduate from St. John’s University in Queens, N.Y. with a master’s degree in history. His career with the SIU began in October 1967 at the thenheadquarters building in Brooklyn, N.Y. It was there that he met his wife, Linda, a secretary for former SIU President Paul Hall. They married in 1973. He started his career as a researcher, then moved on to administrative work, and then to organizing. Pecquex also worked in the manpower department, where he formulated a plan to encourage and facilitate continuing education and upgrading for Seafarers. Under Pecquex’s plan, Seafarers with sufficient seatime were now able to upgrade and to sail in different departments. In addition, many others were encouraged and able to get their General Equivalency Diploma (GED) at the Paul Hall Center (then known as the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School) in Piney Point, Md. In 1980, Pecquex was asked to join the SIU and MTD legislative teams in Washington, D.C., where he worked on boosting awareness and spreading the message of the importance of the U.S.-flag fleet. In 1985, Pecquex was named legislative director of the MTD, in addition to holding the same position at the SIU. In 1991, he was promoted again, this time as the MTD administrator. Two years later, Pecquex was named to the executive secretary-treasurer’s office, where he remained until this year. “In retrospect, I’m amazed that at whatever level I toiled over the years, the union’s leadership had a singular purpose: to protect and expand its members’ job security,” said Pecquex. “Whether promoting vocational training courses, lobbying the White House and the Congress, or developing a strong partnership with military leaders, the SIU was second to none in advancing the message that the American maritime industry, in all of its component parts, remains vital to the nation’s economic health and strategic security.” Pecquex is credited with revamping the MTD and bringing its operations into a new, progressive age. In addition to strengthening the MTD’s internal relations, such as increased communication and collective action between the port councils and affiliates, Pecquex also helped amplify the MTD’s profile within the AFL-CIO as well as on Capitol Hill. “Under Frank’s guidance, the MTD has not only grown significantly in membership but also on the political level,” said Michel Desjardins, president of the Seafarers International Union of Canada and a member of the MTD Executive Board. “Governors, members of Congress, and others trust and support Frank’s ideas. He is a force to be reckoned with.” Pecquex was also behind the transition of communications mediums from print-based to web-based. This type of ingenuity is one of many examples of Pecquex’s contributions to the progress of the labor movement, the maritime industry, and its workers, according to those who worked most closely with him. Pecquex noted that things have changed throughout the years in the political realm for America’s maritime industry, but that the future remains bright. “Over the last two decades, things have changed significantly,” he observed. “Few legislators have military experience and, thus, have little personal connection to the industry’s logistical role in providing materiel for American troops deployed around the world. Today, the domestic industry has developed a strong relationship with those who understand the need for a viable U.S.-flag merchant fleet: America’s military leaders. Working hand-in-hand with the armed forces logistics commands, we have successfully advanced support within the White House and Congress for essential maritime operations, like the Maritime Security Program.” Pecquex is succeeded as executive secretary-treasurer by Daniel Duncan, a longtime SIU and MTD employee in his own right. Duncan had this to say about his predecessor: “Frank is truly one of those wonderful people you get to meet in the union movement. He is a wealth of information about labor and the maritime industry. I have had the honor of knowing him and working with him starting in 1989 when I was transferred to SIU headquarters. He was the union’s legislative director and I got to watch him fight for our members in the halls of Congress Frank Pecquex addresses delegates and guests at the most recent MTD convention, which took place in September 2009 in Pittsburgh. when I was working for the LOG. After coming to the MTD in 2000, I got to know him better by working with him daily.” Duncan continued, “He is known and respected within the maritime industry – not just in Washington, but throughout the country. Frank is a Seafarer through-and-through, and he has a heart bigger than any thousand-footer we crew on the Lakes. In becoming the new MTD executive secretary-treasurer, I know I won’t replace Frank. I just hope to live up to his ideals.” Coming as no surprise to those who know him, Pecquex plans to keep busy. He wants to pursue his interest in photography and anticipates adding to his collection of vinyl records. “I also plan on traveling with Linda, my wife of 37 years, and spoiling my granddaughters, Katherine and Victoria,” said Pecquex. Maritime Community Conducts 40th Anniversary Observance Of Texaco Oklahoma Sinking NMU Tanker Sank in Atlantic in 1971, Claiming 31 Lives The 40th anniversary observance of the sinking of the National Maritime Union crewed SS Texaco Oklahoma took place March 25 in Port Arthur, Texas. Thirty-one mariners perished aboard the U.S.-flag vessel during the early morning Fr. Sinclair Oubre, SIU AB and Catholic port chaplain for Port Arthur and Beaumont, leads family members and friends in prayer during the 40th Anniversary Observance of the Sinking of the SS Texaco Oklahoma. The sundial memorial, where the service was held, was constructed as a perpetual memorial to the Texaco Oklahoma. 8 Seafarers LOG hours of March 27, 1971 when she unexpectedly was struck by a massive wave some 120 miles northeast of Cape Hatteras, N.C. The Texaco Oklahoma at the time was laden with a full load of fuel oil and steaming from Port Arthur to Boston. She broke up and sank as a result of the wave’s impact, carrying 31 of the 44 person crew down with her to a watery grave. Co-hosted by the Apostleship of the Sea (AOS)-Diocese of Beaumont and the Port Arthur International Seafarers Center, the observance had a threefold purpose, according to Father Sinclair Oubre, AOS Diocesan director (and SIU member): ■ To honor the 44 crew members—many from the southwest Texas area—who were part of the vessel’s ill-fated voyage ■ Recall the incident that brought about the disaster, and ■ Reflect on how the loss of the Texaco Oklahoma changed safety requirements in maritime transportation. The event consisted of two segments and attracted survivors, family members, representatives from the maritime community and citizens from the local area. The opening portion featured a somber memorial tribute at the Seamen’s Memorial Sundial which among other components included the reading of the names of the 31 mariners who perished during the sinking, the names of those who survived the disaster but have since passed away and a wreath-laying ceremony. Segment two was a maritime safety symposium which featured two groups of speakers. Those appearing in the first group were survivors and family members of survivors who recounted their personal struggles and shared stories about their now departed loved Participants in the first panel of speakers during the maritime safety memorial included the last three survivors from the SS Texaco Oklahoma, the son of the vessel’s chief engineer, and the permanent first mate who was on vacation at the time when the tanker sank. From left to right in the photo above are: 3rd Pumpman Willie Jacquet, Wiper Estes Toson, 3rd Assistant Engineer Clyde Michael Bandy, Rick Koenig (son of late Chief Engineer Joseph Koeing), and Capt. Roland Respess, Texaco Oklahoma Permanent Chief Mate. ones during those fateful hours in the Atlantic. Estes Toson, Willie Jacquet, Clyde Bandy, Capt. Roland Respess and Rick Koeing were featured on this panel. Toson, Jacquet and Bandy were aboard the Texaco Oklahoma’s stern section when she went down; Respess was the permanent chief mate, and was on vacation when the vessel sank; and Koeing is the son of the late Joseph Koeing, who was Chief Engineer aboard the Oklahoma when she sank. The second panel, composed of representatives from the U.S. Maritime Administration, the U.S. Coast Guard and Texaco Maritime, discussed how the industry and government responded to the tragedy. This group also elaborated on the lessons learned during the disaster that would make the shipping industry safer for future mariners. The panel included Capt. James Gaffney, former president and chief operating officer of Texaco Marine Services Inc. in Port Arthur; and U.S. Coast Guard Lt. j.g. Kyle Carter. The lieutenant serves as marine inspector and Outer Continental Shelf inspections branch chief for the Marine Safety Unit, Port of Port Arthur. The observance concluded with a keynote address by John Cullather, who formerly headed the Democratic Staff Committee on Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation. During his tenure in that position, Cullather helped develop and compose a host of modern U.S. maritime laws. Included in this list are the Coast Guard Authorization Acts of 1981, ’91, ’96, ’98, 2004, 2006, and 2010, the Oil Pollution Act of 1990, and the Maritime Pollution Prevention Act of 2008. May 2011 �64199_Log_May11:May 2011 4/20/2011 5:36 PM Page 9 Snapshots from Oakland OMU Si Hughes (center) and AB Manuel Davis (right) are sworn in to full B-book seniority by SIU Asst. VP Nick Celona. Helping keep fellow mariners well-fed aboard the Mahimahi are ACU Hilario David (left) and Chief Cook Mercurion Abuan. AB Arnie Borja (right) is congratulated by Patrolman Nick Marrone II upon receiving his full A-seniority book. SIU members aboard the Horizon Falcon during a recent voyage included (from left) Bosun Gerry Gianan, AB Roberto Flauta, Steward/Baker Tamara Houston and Chief Cook Subagio Wibisono. Oiler David Bustos (right) receives his full B-seniority book as SIU Asst. VP Nick Celona administers the union oath. Chief Steward Marvin James (left) and Chief Cook James Watson are pictured aboard the MV TSGT John A. Chapman March 21 in Concord, Calif. With Seafarers in Baltimore Pictured aboard the APL Korea are (from left) Recertified Steward Thomas Barrett, Chief Cook James Boss and ACU Joel Ababa. Among the members of the unlicensed crew aboard the MV TSGT John A. Chapman are (left to right) AB John McCormick, AB Albert Bharrat, GSTU Nagi Obad, AB Michael Nee, GUDE Osamah Saleh, Bosun Fareed Khan, Chief Cook James Watson, AB Donald Lucas and Chief Steward Marvin James. Bosun John Mendez (left), Port Agent Elizabeth Brown and Bosun Tom Moore pause for this snapshot aboard the SS Wright. May 2011 Patrolman Nick Marrone II (right) greets AB Jeffrey Amestoy, who recently picked up his full B-seniority book. Chief Steward Sean Noel Richard works on lunch for the crew aboard the USNS Fisher. Seafarers LOG 9 �64199_Log_May11:May 2011 4/20/2011 5:36 PM Page 10 MSC Recognizes CIVMARS for Food Service Excellence CIVMARS from three SIU Government Services Division vessels recently were recognized by the U.S. Military Sealift Command (MSC) for helping keep fellow mariners happily well-fed. The agency in early April presented its annual David M. Cook Food Service Excellence awards to the dry cargo/ammunition ships USNS Wally Schirra and USNS Richard E. Byrd and the fleet ocean tug USNS Catawba at the International Food Service Executives Association’s Joint Military Awards Ceremony in Schaumburg, Ill. MSC Commander Rear Adm. Mark H. Buzby attended the event and presented the awards during a ceremony with more than 600 attendees, including mariners, commanding officers, food service directors, command representatives and food management team members from the U.S. Army, Military Sealift Command and other components of the U.S. Navy. MSC’s food service excellence awards are presented in three categories: East Coast large ship (Schirra), West Coast large ship (Byrd) and overall small ship (Catawba). Representing their vessels at the ceremony were Chief Steward Wojciech Wiatrowski from the Schirra and Supply Officer Christopher Jenkins and Chief Steward Tito Farrales from the Byrd. According to the agency, due to critical mission requirements, the Catawba (also a winner in 2010) was unable to send a representative. “When I told the crew [that we won], all I could hear were shouts of joy,” said Wiatrowski. “Each one of us was just a link in a chain. It was a team effort.” The Byrd’s food service team was equally excited to receive the honor. “The staff worked hard for the award and were jubilant when I told them they won,” said Jenkins. “It was a great team effort with everyone pitching in.” Rear Adm. Mark Buzby (center), MSC commander, presents a food service award to Chief Steward Wojciech Wiatrowski (right), from the USNS Wally Schirra. Jim Thomas (left), MSFSC logistics director, was on hand to assist with the presentation. (U.S. Navy Photos by Bill Cook, Military Sealift Fleet Support Command) Buzby said he “commends all of the food service personnel who participated in this year’s awards program. Your exceptional efforts keep morale and quality of life at peak levels and contribute to our daily mission success around the world.” According to Roberta Jio, chief of MSC’s food service policy and procedures and the person in charge of the awards, “All of MSC’s ships provide outstanding cuisine and customer care. Rear Adm. Buzby (center) recognizes two of the mariners from the USNS Richard E. Byrd, who represented fellow steward-department crew members at the ceremony. Supply Officer Christopher Jenkins is pictured at left, joined by Chief Steward Tito Farrales. But among those that competed for the award this year, these three winners are the cream of the crop and worthy of this recognition.” The award is named for the late Capt. David M. Cook, MSC’s director of logistics from 1995 to 1998. He launched a focused effort to improve all aspects of the food service operations aboard MSC vessels, according to the agency. ANNUAL FUNDING NOTICE MCS SUPPLEMENTARY PENSION PLAN Introduction This notice includes important funding information about your pension plan (“the Plan”). This notice also provides a summary of federal rules governing multiemployer plans in reorganization and insolvent plans and benefit payments guaranteed by the Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation (PBGC), a federal agency. This notice is for the plan year beginning January 1, 2010 and ending December 31, 2010 (referred to hereafter as “Plan Year”). Funded Percentage The funded percentage of a plan is a measure of how well that plan is funded. This percentage is obtained by dividing the Plan’s assets by its liabilities on the valuation date for the plan year. In general, the higher the percentage, the better funded the plan. The Plan’s funded percentage for the Plan Year and 2 preceding plan years is set forth in the chart below, along with a statement of the value of the Plan’s assets and liabilities for the same period. 2010 Valuation Date January 1, 2010 Funded Percentage 142.91% Value of Assets $6,813,528 Value of Liabilities $4,767,618 2009 January 1, 2009 143.43% $7,140,845 $4,978,794 2008 January 1, 2008 151.11% $7,954,211 $5,263,805 Fair Market Value of Assets Asset values in the chart above are actuarial values, not market values. Market values tend to show a clearer picture of a plan’s funded status as of a given point in time. However, because market values can fluctuate daily based on factors in the marketplace, such as changes in the stock market, pension law allows plans to use actuarial values for funding purposes. While actuarial values fluctuate less than market values, they are estimates. As of December 31, 2010, the unaudited fair market value of the Plan’s assets was $7,015,411. As of December 31, 2009, the fair market value of the Plan’s assets was $7,048,783. As of December 31, 2008, the fair market value of the Plan’s assets was $7,035,140. The December 31, 2010 fair value of assets disclosed above is reported on an unaudited basis since this notice is required to be distributed before the normal completion time of the audit which is currently in progress Participant Information The total number of participants in the plan as of the Plan’s valuation date was 850. Of this number, 262 were active participants, 478 were retired or separated from service and receiving benefits, and 110 were retired or separated from service and entitled to future benefits. Funding & Investment Policies The law requires that every pension plan have a procedure for establishing a funding policy to carry out the plan objectives. A funding policy relates to the level of contributions needed to pay for benefits promised under the plan currently and over the years. The funding policy of the Plan is to make contributions in accordance with the existing Collective Bargaining Agreement, but in no event less than the minimum amount annually as required by law. Once money is contributed to the Plan, the money is invested by plan officials called fiduciaries. Specific investments are made in accordance with the Plan’s investment policy. Generally speaking, an investment policy is a written statement that provides the fiduciaries who are responsible for plan investments with guidelines or general instructions concerning various types or categories of investment management decisions. The investment policy of the Plan is to provide a source of retirement income for its participants and beneficiaries while attaining an annual investment return of 6%. To preserve capital, some of the assets are invested in a general account with Connecticut General Life Insurance Company that pays a guaranteed rate of interest each year. Approximately 40% of the remainder of the Plan’s assets is invested in equity securities with the balance invested in fixed income securities. In accordance with the Plan’s investment policy, the Plan’s assets were allocated among the following categories of investments, as of the end of the Plan Year. These allocations are percentages of total assets: Asset Allocations Percentage 1. Interest-bearing cash 2. U.S. Government securities 3. Corporate debt instruments (other than employer securities): Preferred All other 4. Corporate stocks (other than employer securities): Preferred All other 5. Partnership/joint venture interests 6. Real estate (other than employer real property) 7. Loans (other than to participants) 8. Participant loans 9. Value of interest in common/collective trusts 10. Value of interest in pooled separate accounts 11. Value of interest in master trust investment accounts 12. Value of interest in 103-12 investment entities 13. Value of interest in registered investment companies (e.g., mutual funds) 14. Value of funds held in insurance co. general account (unallocated contracts) 15. Employer-related investments: Employer Securities 10 Seafarers LOG 3.41% 20.48% 16.21% 0 0 24.72% 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 35.04 0 16. 17. Employer real property Buildings and other property used in plan operation Other 0 0 .14% Critical or Endangered Status Under federal pension law a plan generally will be considered to be in “endangered” status if, at the beginning of the plan year, the funded percentage of the plan is less than 80 percent or in “critical” status if the percentage is less than 65 percent (other factors may also apply). If a pension plan enters endangered status, the trustees of the plan are required to adopt a funding improvement plan. Similarly, if a pension plan enters critical status, the trustees of the plan are required to adopt a rehabilitation plan. Rehabilitation and funding improvement plans establish steps and benchmarks for pension plans to improve their funding status over a specified period of time. The Plan was not in endangered or critical status in the Plan Year. Right to Request a Copy of the Annual Report A pension plan is required to file with the U.S. Department of Labor an annual report (i.e., Form 5500) containing financial and other information about the plan. Copies of the annual report are available from the U.S. Department of Labor, Employee Benefits Security Administration’s Public Disclosure Room at 200 Constitution Avenue, NW, Room N-1513, Washington, DC 20210, or by calling 202.693.8673. Or, you may obtain a copy of the Plan’s annual report by making a written request to the plan administrator. Summary of Rules Governing Plans in Reorganization and Insolvent Plans Federal law has a number of special rules that apply to financially troubled multiemployer plans. Under so-called “plan reorganization rules,” a plan with adverse financial experience may need to increase required contributions and may, under certain circumstances, reduce benefits that are not eligible for the PBGC’s guarantee (generally, benefits that have been in effect for less than 60 months). If a plan is in reorganization status, it must provide notification that the plan is in reorganization status and that, if contributions are not increased, accrued benefits under the plan may be reduced or an excise tax may be imposed (or both). The law requires the plan to furnish this notification to each contributing employer and the labor organization. Despite the special plan reorganization rules, a plan in reorganization nevertheless could become insolvent. A plan is insolvent for a plan year if its available financial resources are not sufficient to pay benefits when due for the plan year. An insolvent plan must reduce benefit payments to the highest level that can be paid from the plan’s available financial resources. If such resources are not enough to pay benefits at a level specified by law (see Benefit Payments Guaranteed by the PBGC, below), the plan must apply to the PBGC for financial assistance. The PBGC, by law, will loan the plan the amount necessary to pay benefits at the guaranteed level. Reduced benefits may be restored if the plan’s financial condition improves. A plan that becomes insolvent must provide prompt notification of the insolvency to participants and beneficiaries, contributing employers, labor unions representing participants, and PBGC. In addition, participants and beneficiaries also must receive information regarding whether, and how, their benefits will be reduced or affected as a result of the insolvency, including loss of a lump sum option. This information will be provided for each year the plan is insolvent. Benefit Payments Guaranteed by the PBGC The maximum benefit that the PBGC guarantees is set by law. Only vested benefits are guaranteed. Specifically, the PBGC guarantees a monthly benefit payment equal to 100 percent of the first $11 of the Plan’s monthly benefit accrual rate, plus 75 percent of the next $33 of the accrual rate, times each year of credited service. The PBGC’s maximum guarantee, therefore, is $35.75 per month times a participant’s years of credited service. Example 1: If a participant with 10 years of credited service has an accrued monthly benefit of $500, the accrual rate for purposes of determining the PBGC guarantee would be determined by dividing the monthly benefit by the participant’s years of service ($500/10), which equals $50. The guaranteed amount for a $50 monthly accrual rate is equal to the sum of $11 plus $24.75 (.75 x $33), or $35.75. Thus, the participant’s guaranteed monthly benefit is $357.50 ($35.75 x 10). Example 2: If the participant in Example 1 has an accrued monthly benefit of $200, the accrual rate for purposes of determining the guarantee would be $20 (or $200/10). The guaranteed amount for a $20 monthly accrual rate is equal to the sum of $11 plus $6.75 (.75 x $9), or $17.75. Thus, the participant’s guaranteed monthly benefit would be $177.50 ($17.75 x 10). The PBGC guarantees pension benefits payable at normal retirement age and some early retirement benefits. In calculating a person’s monthly payment, the PBGC will disregard any benefit increases that were made under the plan within 60 months before the earlier of the plan’s termination or insolvency (or benefits that were in effect for less than 60 months at the time of termination or insolvency). Similarly, the PBGC does not guarantee pre-retirement death benefits to a spouse or beneficiary (e.g., a qualified pre-retirement survivor annuity) if the participant dies after the plan terminates, benefits above the normal retirement benefit, disability benefits not in pay status, or nonpension benefits, such as health insurance, life insurance, death benefits, vacation pay, or severance pay. Where to Get More Information For more information about this notice, you may contact the office of the Plan Administrator at: Margaret Bowen, Plan Administrator, at 301-899-0675, or by writing to: Plan Administrator, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, Maryland 20746 For identification purposes, the official plan number is 001 and the plan sponsor’s employer identification number or “EIN” is 51-6097856. For more information about the PBGC and benefit guarantees, go to PBGC’s website, www.pbgc.gov. May 2011 �64199_Log_May11:May 2011 4/20/2011 5:36 PM Page 11 Annual Funding Notice - Seafarers Pension Plan Introduction This notice includes important information about the funding status of your pension plan (“the Plan”) and general information about the benefit payments guaranteed by the Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation (“PBGC”), a federal insurance agency. All traditional pension plans (called “defined benefit pension plans”) must provide this notice every year regardless of their funding status. This notice does not mean that the Plan is terminating. It is provided for informational purposes and you are not required to respond in any way. This notice is for the plan year beginning January 1, 2010 and ending December 31, 2010 (“Plan Year”). How Well Funded Is Your Plan Under federal law, the plan must report how well it is funded by using a measure called the “funded percentage.” This percentage is obtained by dividing the Plan’s assets by its liabilities on the Valuation Date for the plan year. In general, the higher the percentage, the better funded the plan. Your Plan’s funded percentage for the Plan Year and each of the two preceding plan years is set forth in the chart below, along with a statement of the value of the Plan’s assets and liabilities for the same period. Funded Percentage 2010 2009 2008 Valuation Date January 1, 2010 January 1, 2009 January 1, 2008 Funded Percentage 110.1 106.1 121.7 Value of Assets $910,293,605 $798,341,351 $700,766,846 Value of Liabilities $826,992,528 $752,536,506 $575,915,644 Year-End Fair Market Value of Assets The asset values in the chart above are measured as of the Valuation Date for the plan year and are actuarial values. Because market values can fluctuate daily based on factors in the marketplace, such as changes in the stock market, pension law allows plans to use actuarial values that are designed to smooth out those fluctuations for funding purposes. The asset values below are market values and are measured as of the last day of the plan year, rather than as of the Valuation Date. Substituting the market value of assets for the actuarial value used in the above chart would show a clearer picture of a plan’s funded status as of the Valuation Date. The fair market value of the Plan’s assets as of the last day of the Plan Year and each of the two preceding plan years is shown in the following table (2010 is not audited): December 31, 2010 Fair Market Value of Assets $1,010,000,000 December 31, 2009 $910,293,605 December 31, 2008 $798,341,351 Critical or Endangered Status Under federal pension law a plan generally will be considered to be in “endangered” status if, at the beginning of the plan year, the funded percentage of the plan is less than 80 percent or in “critical” status if the percentage is less than 65 percent (other factors may also apply). If a pension plan enters endangered status, the trustees of the plan are required to adopt a funding improvement plan. Similarly, if a pension plan enters critical status, the trustees of the plan are required to adopt a rehabilitation plan. Rehabilitation and funding improvement plans establish steps and benchmarks for pension plans to improve their funding status over a specified period of time. The Plan was not in endangered or critical status in the Plan Year. Participant Information The total number of participants in the Plan as of the Plan’s valuation date was 22,329. Of this number, 8,250 were active participants, 9,128 were retired or separated from service and receiving benefits, and 4,951 were retired or separated from service and entitled to future benefits. Funding & Investment Policies Every pension plan must have a procedure for establishing a funding policy to carry out plan objectives. A funding policy relates to the level of assets needed to pay for benefits promised under the plan currently and over the years. The funding policy of the Plan is to provide benefits from contributions by signatory employers under the terms of collective bargaining agreements between the Seafarers International Union, Atlantic, Gulf and Pacific Districts and the employers. The Plan may receive the portion of the employers’ contributions made to the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan which the Trustees determine is necessary to provide for pension benefits based on the recommendation of the Plan’s Actuary. Once money is contributed to the Plan, the money is invested by plan officials called fiduciaries, who make specific investments in accordance with the Plan’s investment policy. Generally speaking, an investment policy is a written statement that provides the fiduciaries that are responsible for plan investments with guidelines or general instructions concerning investment management decisions. The investment policy of the Seafarers Pension Plan is primarily a balanced portfolio of equity, fixed income, and cash equivalent securities. Equities consist of common stocks, preferred stocks, and convertible securities. The total equity exposure for the total managed account should not exceed 55% for a prolonged period of time. The portfolios are diversified into 10 or 15 industry sectors and hold in excess of 50 individual issues. No issue exceeds 3.5% of the portfolio at cost. The fixed income portion of the portfolio consists of: ■ U.S. Government and Agency Securities ■ Commercial Paper ■ Corporate Bonds ■ Traditional Non-High Leverage ■ Mortgage and Asset backed Securities These securities must be rated Investment Grade at time of purchase. Under the Plan’s investment policy, the Plan’s assets were allocated among the following categories of investments, as of the end of the Plan Year. These allocations are percentages of total assets: Asset Allocations 1. Cash (Interest-bearing and non-interest bearing) 2. U.S. Government securities 3. Corporate debt instruments (other than employer securities): Preferred All other 4. Corporate stocks (other than employer securities): Preferred Common Percentage 6 26 16 0 0 39 5.Partnership/joint venture interests 6. Real estate (other than employer real property) 7. Loans (other than to participants) 8. Participant loans 9. Value of interest in common/collective trusts 10. Value of interest in pooled separate accounts 11. Value of interest in master trust investment accounts 12. Value of interest in 103-12 investment entities 13. Value of interest in registered investment companies (e.g., mutual funds) 14. Value of funds held in insurance co. general account (unallocated contracts) 15. Employer-related investments: Employer Securities Employer real property 16. Buildings and other property used in plan operation 17. Other 0 1 0 0 6 0 0 0 6 0 0 0 0 0 For information about the plan’s investment in any of the following type of investments as described in the chart above – common/collective trusts, pooled separate accounts, master trust investment accounts, or 103-12 investment entities, contact: Margaret Bowen, Plan Administrator, at 301-899-0675, or by writing to: Plan Administrator, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, Maryland 20746. Right to Request a Copy of the Annual Report A pension plan is required to file with the US Department of Labor an annual report called the Form 5500 that contains financial and other information about the plan. Copies of the annual report are available from the US Department of Labor, Employee Benefits Security Administration’s Public Disclosure Room at 200 Constitution Avenue, NW, Room N-1513, Washington, DC 20210, or by calling 202.693.8673. For 2009 and subsequent plan years, you may obtain an electronic copy of the plan’s annual report by going to www.efast.dol.gov and using the Form 5500 search function. Or you may obtain a copy of the Plan’s annual report by making a written request to the plan administrator. Individual information, such as the amount of your accrued benefit under the plan, is not contained in the annual report. If you are seeking information regarding your benefits under the plan, contact the plan administrator identified below under “Where To Get More Information.” Summary of Rules Governing Plans in Reorganization and Insolvent Plans Federal law has a number of special rules that apply to financially troubled multiemployer plans. The plan administrator is required by law to include a summary of these rules in the annual funding notice. Under so-called “plan reorganization rules,” a plan with adverse financial experience may need to increase required contributions and may, under certain circumstances, reduce benefits that are not eligible for the PBGC’s guarantee (generally, benefits that have been in effect for less than 60 months). If a plan is in reorganization status, it must provide notification that the plan is in reorganization status and that, if contributions are not increased, accrued benefits under the plan may be reduced or an excise tax may be imposed (or both). The plan is required to furnish this notification to each contributing employer and the labor organization. Despite these special plan reorganization rules, a plan in reorganization could become insolvent. A plan is insolvent for a plan year if its available financial resources are not sufficient to pay benefits when due for that plan year. An insolvent plan must reduce benefit payments to the highest level that can be paid from the plan’s available resources. If such resources are not enough to pay benefits at the level specified by law (see “Benefit Payments Guaranteed by the PBGC”, below), the plan must apply to the PBGC for financial assistance. The PBGC will loan the plan the amount necessary to pay benefits at the guaranteed level. Reduced benefits may be restored if the plan’s financial condition improves. A plan that becomes insolvent must provide prompt notice of its status to participants and beneficiaries, contributing employers, labor unions representing participants, and PBGC. In addition, participants and beneficiaries also must receive information regarding whether, and how, their benefits will be reduced or affected, including loss of a lump sum option. This information will be provided for each year the plan is insolvent. Benefit Payments Guaranteed by the PBGC The maximum benefit that the PBGC guarantees is set by law. Only benefits that you have earned a right to receive and that can not be forfeited (called vested benefits) are guaranteed. Specifically, the PBGC guarantees a monthly benefit payment equal to 100 percent of the first $11 of the Plan’s monthly benefit accrual rate, plus 75 percent of the next $33 of the accrual rate, times each year of credited service. The PBGC’s maximum guarantee, therefore, is $35.75 per month times a participant’s years of credited service. Example 1: If a participant with 10 years of credited service has an accrued monthly benefit of $500, the accrual rate for purposes of determining the PBGC guarantee would be determined by dividing the monthly benefit by the participant’s years of service ($500/10), which equals $50. The guaranteed amount for a $50 monthly accrual rate is equal to the sum of $11 plus $24.75 (.75 x $33), or $35.75. Thus, the participant’s guaranteed monthly benefit is $357.50 ($35.75 x 10). Example 2: If the participant in Example 1 has an accrued monthly benefit of $200, the accrual rate for purposes of determining the guarantee would be $20 (or $200/10). The guaranteed amount for a $20 monthly accrual rate is equal to the sum of $11 plus $6.75 (.75 x $9), or $17.75. Thus, the participant’s guaranteed monthly benefit would be $177.50 ($17.75 x 10).The PBGC guarantees pension benefits payable at normal retirement age and some early retirement benefits. In calculating a person’s monthly payment, the PBGC will disregard any benefit increases that were made under the plan within 60 months before the earlier of the plan’s termination or insolvency (or benefits that were in effect for less than 60 months at the time of termination or insolvency). Similarly, the PBGC does not guarantee pre-retirement death benefits to a spouse or beneficiary (e.g., a qualified preretirement survivor annuity) if the participant dies after the plan terminates, benefits above the normal retirement benefit, disability benefits not in pay status, or non-pension benefits, such as health insurance, life insurance, death benefits, vacation pay, or severance pay. Where to Get More Information For more information about this notice, you may contact the Board of Trustees, or: Margaret Bowen, Plan Administrator, at 301-899-0675, or by writing to:Plan Administrator, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. For identification purposes, the official plan number is 001 and the plan sponsor’s employer identification number or “EIN” is 13-6100329 for Seafarers Pension Plan. For more information about the PBGC, go to PBGC’s website, www.pbgc.gov. IMPORTANT NOTE - YOUR BENEFITS HAVE NOT CHANGED Funding Relief Notice to Participants Name of Plan: Seafarers Pension Plan Taxpayer Identification Number: 13-6100329 Plan Number: 001 Plan Sponsor: Seafarers International Union, Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District, AFL-CIO The Pension Relief Act of 2010 was passed by Congress to alleviate some of the funding obligations imposed by the Pension Protection Act of 2006. Most pension plans experienced financial difficulty due to the recent economic recession. The Pension Relief Act provides several funding May 2011 options that a plan can implement to ease the losses experienced during calendar years 2008 and/or 2009. After due consideration, the Board of Trustees of the Seafarers Pension Plan have elected to take advantage of the special amortization rule. This rule will allow the Plan to extend the amortization period up to 29 years to spread out the net investment losses experienced by the Plan during 2008. (Normally, the amortization period is 15 years). Applying this rule will decrease the statutory minimum funding requirement that is taken into consideration when negotiating employer contributions. This may also have an effect on the Plan’s zone status under the Pension Protection Act in future years. In order to take advantage of this extended amortization period, the Plan will not be permitted to increase benefits during the next two plan years unless the increase is funded by additional contributions and the current funded percentage and projected funding reserve (credit balance) is maintained after the benefit increase. The Plan is allowed to opt-out of this relief in the future. If you need any additional information, contact Margaret R. Bowen, Plan Administrator, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, Md., 207460-4275. Seafarers LOG 11 �64199_Log_May11:May 2011 4/20/2011 5:37 PM Page 12 The MV Freedom docks in Jacksonville. Chief Engineer Bruce Carter Asst. VP Archie Ware AB Charles Booher Asst. VP Archie Ware Around the Port Of Jacksonville These recent photos were submitted by SIU officials who are based at the union hall in Jacksonville, Fla. They show Seafarers aboard the American Roll-On/Roll-Off Carrier vessel Freedom and the Sea Star Line ship El Faro; several newly retired members; and a cookout hosted at the hall. SA Emmanuel Matias, Safety Director Ashley Nelson, Chief Cook Manuel Daguio, STOS Vicente Mansilungan Asst. VP Archie Ware AB Rodney Roberson, El Faro Chief Electrician Frank Bakun Patrolman Brian Guiry 12 Seafarers LOG AB Benny Bess Safety Director Ashley Nelson Patrolman Brian Guiry Chief Engineer Steven Williams Recertified Bosun Arthur Cross MV Freedom STOS Rudy Jackson MV Freedom AB Carson Jordan, Patrolman Brian Guiry May 2011 �64199_Log_May11_X:May 2011 4/24/2011 10:56 PM Page 13 Steady Progress Continues in CMPI Talks CIVMARS Assist in Key Government Services Division Negotiations The SIU Government Services Division, the U.S. Military Sealift Command (MSC) and the Military Sealift Fleet Support Command (MSFSC) are continuing negotiations on the Civilian Marine Personnel Instruction (CMPI) 610. The negotiations started in January 2010 and most recently continued in early April in Washington, D.C. The January 2011 negotiating session took place at SIU headquarters in Camp Springs, Md. Having finished the general provisions in the previous session, the parties turned their attention to the deck department work rules. The negotiating teams made great progress in January as several deck department work rules were streamlined and clarified. The parties also were able to satisfy their goal of drafting several concise work rules that apply equally to both coasts such as port security/safety watches, fleet support vessels and authorization of premium pay. The February negotiating session was conducted at the Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service (FMCS) in Washington, D.C. The parties addressed the remaining deck department work rules for both coasts and drafted a number of comprehensive provisions that apply to all CIVMARS. The new provisions cover various premium pay topics such as “dirty work” and tank cleaning. The negotiating teams also revisited and updated some previously drafted provisions to ensure consistency and clarity with other new provisions. The March session was devoted entire- SIU President Michael Sacco (left) and Rear Adm. Mark Buzby, MSC commander, take part in the second meeting conducted under the Obama Administration’s executive order titled “Creating Labor-Management Forums To Improve Delivery of Government Services.” (This was a separate meeting from the recent CMPI talks.) ly to the premium pay provisions and work rules related to the engine department. The parties were assisted by two unlicensed CIVMARS who are both experienced members of the engine department: West Coast CIVMAR Floyd Fullilove and East Coast CIVMAR Greg Woods. These subject-matter experts provided support and valuable technical expertise throughout the week. Union negotiators for the March session were SIU Government Services Division Assistant Vice President Chet Wheeler, SIU Counsel Deborah Kleinberg and SIU Associate Counsel Jon Madden. Among the topics discussed and negotiated during the March session were movement of ships’ stores as it relates to the engine department, welding and lathe work, engine department painting, installing or removing equipment, sanitary work while on watch, and refrigeration engineers. The parties also revised previous general provisions to add language applicable to engine department personnel. Fullilove described his participation at the negotiations as “eye-opening.” He said that attendance at the negotiations provided him with an education about the negotiation process and the large amount of work that goes into this type of bargaining project. He added, “Seeing the amount of passion that the union officials showed at the meetings to make sure the interests the unlicensed CIVMARS were protected inspired me to get more involved with the union, and to be better-educated about shipboard conditions and CIVMAR rights.” Woods said he enjoyed his time at SIU headquarters and that working at the negotiations was very informative. He noted that the interest-based bargaining process was a helpful and effective method to ensure that “everyone in the room negotiated from an equal basis.” Woods said he felt comfortable “speaking up” about the issues which were discussed at the table. He further stated that he learned in these negotiations and in other areas the union fights hard to make sure that CIVMARS get what they deserve under the work rules and in other aspects of their careers as MSC employees. He is interested in learning more about the union’s work and passing along what he has learned to other CIVMARS. Wheeler and Kleinberg agreed that the union and all engine department CIVMARS benefited greatly from the presence and contributions of Fullilove and Woods. The members’ expertise was extremely helpful to the negotiation process, they stated, and the mariners effectively represented the interests and concerns about the engine room working conditions. Their input made it easier for negotiators to understand the demands on the unlicensed CIVMARS aboard vessels throughout MSC’s fleet and develop premium pay work rules which will be more easily and effectively used on all ships, Wheeler and Kleinberg said. The April meeting conducted from April 11-14 focused on the supply department. A full article regarding the April session will appear in a future issue of the LOG. As previously reported, these negotiations are intended to ensure that the new CMPI 610 will be as clearly written as possible and, as a result, will be applied consistently on all vessels throughout the fleet. Along with uniformity and clarity in the revised document, the union is focused on ensuring that as work rules are modified, the overtime and penalty wages of CIVMARS are protected to the greatest possible extent. All consensus agreements will be reviewed at the end of the negotiations to determine if, as a result of any changes, CIVMARS have experienced more than a minor negative impact. The rules will also be reviewed to ensure that CIVMARS have not experienced an unintended gain. The parties have also agreed to conduct an economic modeling after the new CMPI 610 has been completed to make sure that MSC meets its goal of staying within or very close to its current premium pay budget and to ensure that CIVMARS will not experience a significant change in their current rate of premium pay compensation. The SIU on April 7 hosted the latest installment of the twice-yearly meeting of U.S. maritime union officials and MSC officers and representatives. Many of the participants are pictured in the photo at left. They discussed a wide range of topics affecting MSC and CIVMARS. Separately, among those negotiating on the union’s behalf (photo above) during the March CMPI session were (from left) Associate Counsel Jon Madden, CIVMAR Floyd Fullilove, Asst. VP Chet Wheeler and CIVMAR Greg Woods. CIVMARS On USNS Byrd Deliver These U.S. Navy photos were taken in mid-April in the Pacific Ocean. In image at far right, a CIVMAR assigned to the Seafarers-crewed dry cargo and ammunition ship USNS Richard E. Byrd (T-AKE 4) connects pallets to an SA-330 Puma helicopter during a replenishment at sea with the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan. In the other photo, the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile cruiser USS Preble approaches the Byrd’s port side during the replenishment. (Photo at far right by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Shawn J. Stewart; other image by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Matthew Jackson) May 2011 Seafarers LOG 13 �64199_Log_May11:May 2011 4/20/2011 5:37 PM Page 14 Editor’s note: This is the sixth installment in a series written by Edward T. Woods, a U.S. Merchant Marine veteran of World War II who sailed in the engine and steward departments. Previous entries were published off and on beginning with the September 2010 edition of the LOG. Approximately three more chapters will follow in upcoming issues. Now 83 years old, Woods was 16 when he shipped out aboard the S/S Horseshoe in 1944. The most recent installment of his story (published in the March edition) ended in late December 1945, after Woods had returned to New York following a voyage to Okinawa. C hristmas week 1945, I went down to the offices of War Emergency Tankers, Inc. (Its acronym was pronounced WET INK.) I had worked for WET INK during the war, when it was under the control of the U.S. Navy. I was able to get a berth on another tanker, the SS Wheeler Hills, and on New Year’s Eve, I sailed out of New York and continued to go to sea for three more years. I added more ports of calls to the list of countries I have visited. While aboard the Wheeler Hills I made trips to Texas, Massachusetts and the ABC islands. One day, I went ashore in Port Aransas, Texas, with a friend, and stopped at a Mom and Pop store at the end of the pier. We bought a few postcards and some candy and paid an old woman sitting by a cash drawer for the items. As we were leaving, we heard the old woman call out, “You all come back.” The two of us were startled by what we took to be a command. We went back and asked her what was wrong. The poor old lady had no idea what we were talking about. It was then that I learned the expression was used widely and often in the South and was a friendly way of saying goodbye, see you again. It was the first time I had heard the expression. The next day, we decided to take a walk into town. There were no buses or streetcars in these small Texas towns and walking was second nature to us. On our way, a small car pulled alongside and the driver asked if we were heading for town and, if so, would we like a ride. Well, we thought, what a nice, friendly gesture, and climbed into the car. A few minutes later when we arrived in the little town the driver said, “That will be two dollars each.” We asked in amazement, “What for?” We were told that taxis cost money and we shouldn’t expect to ride free. The town probably had one policeman and he was standing nearby watching us get out of the car. We paid the man the money. Later that afternoon, we hired a cab to take us back after asking the cost. It was about the same, four dollars. However, on the way to the pier, the driver stopped at a signpost and blew his horn. Out came an old man who looked inside the car and said that will be fifteen cents each. We painfully asked, “What for?” The reply came quickly, “This is a private road and I’m entitled to charge a passenger toll.” Since that time, I have had other unusual experiences while traveling and each time that I thought I was being made a dupe, I would think of the many occasions that I heard someone say that New Yorkers were a bunch of crooks, etc. “Those New Yorkers, they’ll try to sell you the Brooklyn Bridge.” Maybe so, but New Yorkers can learn a lot about shakedowns from some of our more rural folks. My last port of call with the Wheeler Hills was Mobile, Alabama, where our ship was added to the mothball fleet. These ships, especially the tankers that were taken out of service, were soon sold to foreign businessmen. They registered the ships under foreign flags and manned then with foreign crews. A savings to them, but a big loss to the United States, as the number of ships in our merchant fleet was reduced considerably. Investors such as the Greek, Aristotle Onassis, and his family bought many of the tankers. Onassis became one of the wealthiest men in the world. His money from buying, selling and transporting oil enabled him to court and wed President Kennedy’s widow, Jackie. I flew home to New York from Mobile on May 8, 1946, my first ride in an airplane. It was a surplus Air Force plane and had not been fitted to carry passengers. It still had the bucket seats that provided space for a parachute when I tried to sit down. In addition, the passenger areas were not heated and there were no snacks or beverages available. We stopped to refuel in Charlotte, North Carolina, where most of the cold and nauseous passengers got off and stayed. It was a most uncomfortable flight. These surplus planes had been purchased by former Air Force pilots and, while they didn’t offer any of the conveniences we enjoy on today’s planes, they did offer cheap fares. They were called non- scheduled airlines and were eventually put out of business by the government for safety reasons. I was satisfied with my first flight – it only cost fifty dollars and I was home in New York the following day. Hey, I was only 18 years old, optimistic and easily pleased. In June 1946, I obtained a berth on the United States Army Transport (USAT) General Richardson, an Army troop carrier. We departed New York, crossed the Atlantic Ocean and entered the fabled Mediterranean Sea. It was a beautiful, calm afternoon as we passed through the Strait of Gibraltar and I could clearly see Spain and the British Colony of Gibraltar off our port side and Morocco on the continent of Africa off the starboard. It was a wish come true. Our port of call was Leghorn, Italy, on the famous Arno River. I was pleased when one of my mates, who was fluent in Italian and had lived in Italy as a boy, invited me to go ashore with him to enjoy the sights. The first item on our agenda was a visit to the Leaning Tower of Pisa. We hitchhiked a ride on a U.S. Army truck from Leghorn to Pisa and upon our arrival at the historical site, found ourselves to be 14 Seafarers LOG the only visitors. As we climbed the spiral staircase leading to the top, I was almost overcome by the stench of urine. I could never understand how anyone would use the famous site as a latrine. On the top of the Tower is a set of huge bells. It took a few minutes for the two of us to get one of the heavy bells to ring. Eventually, however, we got a number of the big bells to sound off. Very soon, two Italian policemen appeared and reprimanded us. My buddy, doing the translation, said the police told him the bells were only to be rung in times of emergency. Since we were Americans, they were obliged to ignore the infraction, especially after we gave them some good old American cigarettes. On the ground, we located a small café and I had my first local spaghetti. The pasta was brown and did not look appealing with the red tomato sauce on top of it. I then learned that flour is naturally brown and is bleached to make The Ed Woods Story – A Teenager In World War II Woods is pictured in Bremen, Germany, in early 1946. it white, such as we use it in the USA. Hostilities had ended and a cease-fire had been signed but World War II would not be officially over until December 1946. In Leghorn, there was a German Prisoner of War camp filled with hundreds of German SS soldiers. Inside the camp, all activity was supervised by German officers. I went to view the entrance to it and talked with the American soldiers guarding the camp. I was told that no one in his right mind would enter the camp as the SS troops were considered diehards, having sworn to die for Hitler and the Fatherland. Food and other necessary supplies were left at the entrance gate for distribution to the prisoners by the German officers. I was given to understand that the prisoners would not be released and returned home until a formal peace treaty was signed. Near the camp was an American PX, a service store. We stopped in for a Coke and saw that it had a barbershop operated by elderly German prisoners. We took advantage of an offer to have a haircut and a shave for about 25 cents. The barber was about 60 years old and told me he had been drafted in Germany near the end of the war and sent here to Italy. The allies didn’t consider him or the other older prisoners to be a threat, and certainly not in the same dangerous category as the SS troops. The older prisoners were used for menial tasks around the American bases. As he was shaving me with a straight razor, I kept thinking that it was only a short time ago that he and his comrades would have been pleased to blow me and my ship out of the water and slice my neck open if given the chance. I paid him for his service with a few cigarettes. At the end of the war in Europe, few people wanted cash! There was little to buy with paper money, whether it was the local currency or the script used by the occupying forces. Cigarettes were used extensively in the black market and bartered for food and other necessities. To this day, I regret not going further up the Arno River to the city of Florence. Regrettably, at 18 I had little interest in the arts and no one to encourage me to appreciate the educational value of visiting world-famous museums. My Italian-American buddy only wanted to see how many local Italian clubs we could visit and pass ourselves off as Italians. He told me just to nod my head when questioned or spoken to and he would handle the conversation. We achieved entry to what appeared to be a first-class “Italian only” club and were soon enjoying glasses of the local wine. Alas, it didn’t last; Americans look American. Our haircuts, our clothes and our mannerisms gave us away and we were politely escorted out. We tried to enter a few other clubs without success. One morning while in Leghorn, I took a leisurely walk by myself into town and stopped at a typical piazza. I overheard and saw a young American soldier arguing with a group of very young Italian kids. I went over to the group and listened to what was taking place. It seems the soldier was trying to sell the kids a carton of American cigarettes and was asking far more than they could afford. I was in civilian clothes so he had no idea who I was or what I represented. The soldier did not know any Italian and the kids understood only a few English words. In broken English and with a phony Italian accent, I asked what was going on. The GI understood my broken English but the kids were at a loss as to what I was saying, but I could see that they knew I was not an Italian. I told the young soldier that he was in serious trouble for attempting to deal in the black market so brazenly with children. I said that I would need to do something about this illegal activity. I was still talking in what I considered made-up broken Italian, as the kids just stared at me without an inking of what I was saying. The soldier became alarmed at what I told him and offered to give the kids a free carton of cigarettes if I would forget what had taken place. I agreed and never saw such a happy group of kids as they walked away with their treasure. My Italian-American shipmate came back to the ship one day and said he had arranged for us to dine in what had been the very best restaurant in all Italy. He added, “Well anyway, the best in Leghorn.” It would cost each of us a full carton of cigarettes, the equivalent of about $1,000 in Italian Lire. This was not a problem, as we had plenty of cigarettes. At sea, I could buy all the cigarettes I wanted for 60 cents a carton in the ship’s slop chest. My friend said we were scheduled to meet a local guide who would lead us to the fabled restaurant. A group of about eight of us decided to participate in this novel adventure. The guide led us through bombed-out buildings, back alleys and cellar doors until we reached a building with a beautiful ornate doorway. Our guide knocked on the door and it was opened by an elaborately dressed doorman who greeted and invited us inside. As I entered, I could see that the premises had not been subject to the ravages of war such as had most of the buildings in the city. The restaurant was luxuriously decorated. In addition, the furnishings appeared to be of the highest quality. My Italian friend ordered the food for our party and we enjoyed numerous courses of delicious and wellprepared food together with a variety of wines. The dessert was brought to our table on carts for us to consider and select. This cart service was a first for me, although today it is routine in many restaurants. From there, it was back to New York with a full passenger load of U.S. Army soldiers returning home following their victory in Europe. As we entered New York Bay and neared the Statue of Liberty, two soldiers actually jumped overboard. The harbor tugs that were standing nearby to take us to our disembarking pier managed to pluck them out of the water. We heard the two of them had been in every invasion from North Africa to Sicily to Italy. It was said they were gamblers, had amassed a lot of money and expected to come back to the States very rich men. However, they were involved in some heavy card and dice games during this voyage home and had lost all of their money and now, broke and seeing the famous statue, they went berserk. My next trip on the Richardson took me to Bremerhaven, Germany. The port was not damaged as much as I expected, but when I visited nearby Bremen, a much bigger city, the destruction of the buildings appeared to be total. Allied bombing had done its job! I was surprised then and again later at my next visit to Germany at the cleanliness of the roadways and remaining sidewalks. The roads had been swept clean and were in stark contrast to the piles of rubble where buildings had once stood. Movement about town and sightseeing were at a minimum due to the limitations enforced by the occupying powers, both British and American. I did manage to see some Uboats in their pens and I later wrote a short story about this visit. My son Warren is the collections manager at the Historic New Orleans Collection. He is also our selfappointed family historian and a dedicated collector of memorabilia. He asked me to put in writing whatever information I could remember about the Nazi flag I brought home from Germany in early 1946. The flag is now in his possession after being stored away with other souvenirs for the past 65 years. May 2011 �64199_Log_May11:May 2011 4/20/2011 5:37 PM Page 15 D is p at c h e r s ’ R e p o r t f o r D e e p S e a Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan Notice of Privacy Practices Available The Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan is committed to protecting the privacy of your health information. The Plan will only disclose protected health information when it is necessary for medical treatment, payment of claims or normal health care operations. Aside from these necessary disclosures, the Plan will not provide your health information to another person (including a member of your family) unless you specifically authorize the Plan to do so, or the Plan is required to disclose the information by law. The Plan will disclose your information if it receives a subpoena which specifically requests health information. If you would like a copy of the Plan’s Notice of Privacy Practices, which provides detailed information about the Plan’s policies concerning protected health information, you may request a copy by writing to: Privacy Officer, Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746 P e rs o n a l Peter McGurgan wants to locate anyone who sailed with his late brother, Stephen McGurgan, from the late 1970s to the mid 1980s. If you sailed with Brother McGurgan during this period (or know of someone who did), please contact Peter at 860-276-0209. June & July 2011 Membership Meetings Piney Point...............................Monday: June 6, Tuesday: *July 5 Algonac ......................................................Friday: June 10, July 8 Baltimore.................................................Thursday: June 9, July 7 Guam....................................................Thursday: June 23, July 21 Honolulu ..................................................Friday: June 17, July 15 Houston....................................................Monday: June 13, July 11 Jacksonville.............................................Thursday: June 9, July 7 Joliet....................................................Thursday: June 16, July 14 Mobile...............................................Wednesday: June 15, July 13 New Orleans.................................................Tuesday: June 14, July 12 New York..................................................Tuesday: June 7, July 5 Norfolk....................................................Thursday: June 9, July 7 Oakland ...............................................Thursday: June 16, July 14 Philadelphia..........................................Wednesday: June 8, July 6 Port Everglades ...................................Thursday: June 16, July 14 San Juan..................................................Thursday: June 9, July 7 St. Louis ...................................................Friday: June 17, July 15 Tacoma.....................................................Friday: June 24, July 22 Wilmington..................................................Monday: June 20, July 18 * Piney Point change created by Independence Day holiday Each port’s meeting starts at 10:30 a.m. ATTENTION: SEAFARERS Be Sure To Make Yourself A Note... Contribute To The Seafarers Political Action Donation (SPAD) May 2011 March 16, 2011 - April 15, 2011 Port Total Registered All Groups A B C Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Seattle St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS 12 0 6 19 5 6 43 25 6 8 10 40 15 31 6 1 9 43 3 31 319 5 4 6 8 5 3 23 20 4 6 6 29 24 18 7 2 12 19 3 19 223 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Seattle St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS 3 0 5 6 4 7 8 19 1 13 6 12 10 10 3 0 4 12 2 9 134 3 0 7 8 3 6 18 23 0 4 3 14 19 8 3 4 8 14 2 9 156 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Seattle St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS 2 0 5 9 0 10 24 24 1 4 5 18 9 30 1 3 5 22 1 21 194 2 0 2 2 3 2 6 9 3 5 2 2 9 2 0 0 0 3 1 3 56 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Seattle St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS 2 0 1 0 0 3 2 4 0 0 1 8 0 5 0 0 0 8 0 6 40 3 1 4 8 1 7 18 17 5 3 3 41 19 10 0 8 1 9 4 19 181 GRAND TOTAL: 687 616 0 1 0 3 0 0 2 1 1 0 0 3 7 1 1 9 1 4 0 6 40 Total Shipped All Groups A B C Trip Reliefs 0 0 1 1 0 0 1 1 0 0 1 0 4 0 1 3 0 2 0 2 17 0 3 2 6 0 0 19 5 0 1 3 16 7 15 5 0 3 16 0 13 114 13 2 7 30 7 17 92 58 5 17 21 69 30 57 7 1 13 69 4 60 579 14 7 14 18 8 10 41 45 7 13 13 39 42 26 7 1 19 36 5 45 410 3 1 1 4 0 1 4 4 2 2 2 5 7 3 0 4 2 8 0 9 62 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 3 1 0 0 0 1 1 5 5 0 0 0 4 0 3 2 0 1 4 0 5 32 3 1 9 16 4 20 30 37 2 18 12 28 13 21 5 1 5 18 2 17 262 5 1 12 10 1 6 28 38 1 7 6 26 39 17 3 3 15 26 3 25 272 1 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 1 0 2 5 3 1 0 0 0 0 1 2 17 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 2 0 1 3 0 5 2 4 0 2 1 7 2 6 2 1 0 9 0 6 53 5 0 7 12 0 13 34 32 1 7 7 40 26 43 3 4 6 30 1 41 312 4 0 2 7 4 4 11 8 3 3 3 7 17 6 0 2 1 9 2 4 97 0 0 0 1 2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 2 0 0 1 0 0 0 8 3 0 1 3 0 3 1 10 1 1 1 3 1 2 1 22 0 3 0 4 60 0 0 3 2 0 0 0 2 0 0 0 1 1 3 0 1 0 5 0 2 20 2 0 1 0 0 7 8 4 0 1 2 10 0 4 0 0 2 6 0 14 61 18 2 3 13 3 13 34 38 1 8 8 85 35 25 1 4 2 21 4 48 366 25 1 4 10 1 7 10 23 3 7 9 10 41 16 4 9 0 9 0 15 204 Deck Department 18 6 1 2 7 2 15 8 2 4 2 2 35 18 15 9 7 3 6 5 12 4 37 12 13 20 24 7 8 8 2 0 7 2 28 12 0 2 20 15 259 141 Engine Department 1 6 4 0 0 1 0 3 3 0 2 3 0 3 1 1 6 3 0 12 9 0 10 8 0 2 0 1 5 1 2 4 2 1 7 4 1 7 6 0 6 5 0 5 1 0 2 3 0 2 4 0 11 9 1 2 1 2 8 7 10 103 75 Steward Department 0 2 6 0 0 0 0 5 0 1 9 3 1 1 1 1 11 4 0 14 3 0 12 6 0 1 2 0 8 4 0 4 1 0 16 2 3 6 11 0 13 2 0 2 1 0 1 0 1 0 0 0 19 3 0 0 1 0 15 1 7 139 51 Entry Department 6 1 1 0 0 1 1 0 3 2 0 7 0 0 2 1 2 3 2 3 9 16 2 7 3 0 4 2 1 1 6 0 0 4 2 22 16 0 17 5 4 6 1 0 0 28 0 8 0 1 0 6 6 8 0 0 3 8 1 10 107 23 112 164 524 379 82 219 Registered on Beach All Groups A B C 1,214 1,145 Seafarers LOG 291 15 �64199_Log_May11:May 2011 4/20/2011 5:37 PM Page 16 S ea f a r e r s I n t e r n a t i o n a l U n i o n D i r e c t or y Michael Sacco, President Augustin Tellez, Executive Vice President David Heindel, Secretary-Treasurer George Tricker, Vice President Contracts Tom Orzechowski, Vice President Lakes and Inland Waters Dean Corgey, Vice President Gulf Coast Nicholas J. Marrone, Vice President West Coast Joseph T. Soresi, Vice President Atlantic Coast Kermett Mangram, Vice President Government Services HEADQUARTERS 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746 (301) 899-0675 ALGONAC 520 St. Clair River Dr., Algonac, MI 48001 (810) 794-4988 ANCHORAGE 721 Sesame St., #1C, Anchorage, AK 99503 (907) 561-4988 BALTIMORE 2315 Essex St., Baltimore, MD 21224 (410) 327-4900 GUAM P.O. Box 3328, Hagatna, Guam 96932 Cliffline Office Ctr. Bldg., Suite 103B 422 West O’Brien Dr., Hagatna, Guam 96910 (671) 477-1350 HONOLULU 606 Kalihi St., Honolulu, HI 96819 (808) 845-5222 HOUSTON 1221 Pierce St., Houston, TX 77002 (713) 659-5152 JACKSONVILLE 5100 Belfort Rd., Jacksonville, FL 32256 (904) 281-2622 JOLIET 10 East Clinton St., Joliet, IL 60432 (815) 723-8002 MOBILE 1640 Dauphin Island Pkwy, Mobile, AL 36605 (251) 478-0916 NEW ORLEANS 3911 Lapalco Blvd., Harvey, LA 70058 (504) 328-7545 Editor’s note: This month’s question was answered by upgraders at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, located in Piney Point, Md. What are some of the things you enjoy about your job? Inq uiring Seaf are r Juan F. Poblete SA There are a lot of things I like about my job. I like the money, the vacation time, and I like the opportunities. You have the opportunity to go to school for free, which is great. I’m very proud to be an SIU member. Roy Saranthus Engineer There’s always something different to do. I’m always working on different stuff. My days are never routine. It’s also exciting working on the river, docking ships, getting boats back out without any damage. It’s hardly ever boring. And I also like the time off. Ray Adams AB I just like the job in general, and Crowley is a good place to work. I’ve been in the SIU almost four years and in the industry for almost seven years. Being where I’m from (Lake Charles, La.), I see the difference a union makes. I’ve seen non-union people get laid off for what seems like no reason. A union means job security that can’t be taken from you. P i c - F r o m - T h e -P a s t You have a contract to back you up, and that’s what I like the most. Johney August AB I get to see the world and meet different people, explore their cultures and how they live, which helps me get a better view. And I make a good living doing it. I’ve been doing this for 23 years, and the experiences I’ve had with fellow shipmates – the camaraderie – also sticks out to me. try to make the best of it. We work seven (days) on and seven off. I’ve stuck with it for the money. Marguerite Diggs SA I like travelling, and this is a very good way to make a living. I’ve been in the industry for about five years and I’ve stayed because you can have a job any time you’re ready to work. We have job security. Danny Mayfield Engineer I’ve been sailing for seven years with Crescent Towing and I really like the people. We NEW YORK 635 Fourth Ave., Brooklyn, NY 11232 (718) 499-6600 Government Services Division: (718) 499-6600 NORFOLK 115 Third St., Norfolk, VA 23510 (757) 622-1892 OAKLAND 1121 7th St., Oakland, CA 94607 (510) 444-2360 PHILADELPHIA 2604 S. 4 St., Philadelphia, PA 19148 (215) 336-3818 PINEY POINT P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674 (301) 994-0010 PORT EVERGLADES 1221 S. Andrews Ave., Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33316 (954) 522-7984 SANTURCE 1057 Fernandez Juncos Ave., Stop 16 Santurce, PR 00907 (787) 721-4033 ST. LOUIS/ALTON 4581 Gravois Ave., St. Louis, MO 63116 (314) 752-6500 TACOMA 3411 South Union Ave., Tacoma, WA 98409 (253) 272-7774 WILMINGTON 510 N. Broad Ave., Wilmington, CA 90744 (310) 549-4000 This photo was published in the Dec. 12, 1952 edition of the LOG. It shows Waterman Port Steward Matt Brown (second from right) checking off a list of items for the freighter La Salle that were delivered in New York by Sea Chest representatives John Cole (right) and Pete Bush. If anyone has a vintage union-related photograph he or she would like to share with other Seafarers LOG readers, please send it to the Seafarers LOG, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. Photographs will be returned, if so requested. High-resolution digital images may be sent to webmaster@seafarers.org 16 Seafarers LOG May 2011 �64199_Log_May11:May 2011 4/20/2011 5:37 PM Page 17 W e l c o me A sh ore Each month, the Seafarers LOG pays tribute to the SIU members who have devoted their working lives to sailing aboard U.S.-flag vessels on the deep seas, inland waterways or Great Lakes. Listed below are brief biographical sketches of those members who recently retired from the union. The brothers and sisters of the SIU thank those members for a job well done and wish them happiness and good health in the days ahead. DEEP SEA DAREN FABEL Brother Daren Fabel, 65, started sailing with the NMU in 1993. He worked as a member of the steward department. In 2007, Brother Fabel upgraded at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. He most recently shipped aboard the Cape Diamond. Brother Fabel calls Goldsboro, N.C., home. MARK FLORES Brother Mark Flores, 63, began sailing with the union in 1978, originally on the Mount Explorer. He attended classes on numerous occasions at the Piney Point school. Brother Flores was a member of the steward department. He last worked aboard the Coast Range. Brother Flores resides in Houston. HECTOR FREDERICK Brother Hector Frederick, 66, became an SIU member in 1986. His initial voyage was on the Sugar Islander; his last was aboard the Overseas Luxmar. Brother Frederick sailed in the engine department. He enhanced his skills on two occasions at the union-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. Brother Frederick lives in Houston. CARLOS GONZALES Brother Carlos Gonzales, 63, signed on with the NMU in 1994. He was born in Nicaragua and worked in the steward department. Brother Gonzales’s final trip to sea was on the Maersk Arkansas. He went to the Paul Hall Center in 2000 to upgrade his seafaring abilities. Brother Gonzales is a resident of Jackson Heights, N.Y. May 2011 ALTHALO HENTON Brother Althalo Henton, 63, joined the NMU in 1993. He was born in Houston. In 2000 and 2003, Brother Henton took advantage of educational opportunities available at the SIU-affiliated school in Maryland. He sailed in the deck department. Brother Henton most recently worked aboard the Charleston Express. He continues to make his home in his native state. CLIFFORD LACON Brother Clifford Lacon, 72, started sailing with the union in 2001. The deck department member last shipped on the Maersk Kentucky. Brother Lacon calls Mechanicsville, Va., home. CHRISTOPHER POPE Brother Christopher Pope, 59, donned the NMU colors in 1993. He sailed with Keystone Shipping for the duration of his career aboard vessels such as the Fredericksburg and the Keystone Texas. Brother Pope was a member of the deck department. He resides in Grafton, N.H. JEFFERY SAXON Brother Jeffery Saxon, 65, became a Seafarer in 1964 while in the port of Mobile. His first ship was the Monticello. Brother Saxon was born in Alabama and worked in the deck department. He last sailed aboard a Sulphur Carriers Inc. vessel. Brother Saxon lives in Theodore, Ala. MUCKBIL SHAIBI Brother Muckbil Shaibi, 68, was born in Yemen. He started his career with the SIU in 1978. Brother Shaibi was originally employed on the Del Uruguay. The steward department member enhanced his skills on two occasions at the Piney Point school. Brother Shaibi’s final voyage was aboard the Horizon Eagle. He settled in San Francisco. INLAND DANNIE CARD Brother Dannie Card, 65, joined the union in 1972. He initially worked with Interstate Oil Transportation Company. Brother Card was born in Delaware. He last went to sea on a Moran Towing of Philadelphia vessel. Brother Card is a resident of Millsboro, Del. JOSEPH EVERETT Brother Joseph Everett, 62, is a Virginia native. He began shipping with the SIU in 1973 while in the port of Norfolk, Va. Brother Everett first sailed aboard an Allied Transportation Company vessel. His final trip was with McAllister Towing of Virginia. Brother Everett now makes his home in South Mills, N.C. ASHBY FURLOUGH Transportation Company vessel. Brother Furlough worked in both the engine and deck departments. He attended classes often at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Furlough most recently shipped with Penn Maritime Inc. He calls Washington, N.C., home. STEPHEN HACKNEY Brother Stephen Hackney, 56, was born in Philadelphia. He signed on with the union in 1976 while in Piney Point, Md. Brother Hackney was originally employed with Interstate Oil Transportation Company. The deck department member enhanced his skills on two occasions at the Piney Point school. Brother Hackney last sailed aboard a Penn Maritime Inc. vessel. He continues to reside in Philadelphia. GERALD SIMPSON of the engine department. His final trip was on a vessel operated by Crowley Towing of Jacksonville. Brother Simpson lives in Panama City Beach, Fla. GREAT LAKES RICHARD BELLANT Brother Richard Bellant, 65, joined the union in 1970. He sailed primarily aboard American Steamship Company vessels including the Buffalo, Nicolet and Indiana Harbor. Brother Bellant worked in the steward department. He is a resident of Lakeland, Fla. Brother Gerald Simpson, 57, donned the SIU colors in 1979. He first worked with Crowley Puerto Rico Services Inc. Brother Simpson was a member T h is M o nt h I n S I U H i s t o r y Brother Ashby Furlough, 63, became an SIU member in 1969. He first sailed on a Steuart Editor’s note: The following items are reprinted fro previous editions of the Seafarers LOG. 1946 At the instigation of SIU, representatives of all AFL maritime unions on the Atlantic and Gulf Coasts met in New York on May 20. A resolution was adopted calling on the AFL Executive Council to establish a Maritime Trades Department within the American Federation of Labor. The purpose of this move was to ensure that unions allied in the marine industry would have the same kind of representation within the AFL as do the Building Trades Department and Metal Trades Department. 1955 A bill to strip maritime unions of their right to negotiate contracts through free collective bargaining was proposed by Congressman Herbert Bonner. The proposal, called the Maritime Labor Stabilization Act, would set up a U.S. Board for the Settlement of Maritime Labor Disputes to force compulsory arbitration of all contractual disputes between seamen and their employers. SIU Secretary-Treasurer Paul Hall described the bill as “a built-in set of blights for seamen’s unions that would deliberately foul up every attempt to negotiate with the shipowner on any contractual matter. More important, the very freedom of our union would be threatened. We must, therefore, oppose this legislation to the limit.” 1960 The revised constitution of the SIU, Atlantic and Gulf District went into effect on Thursday, May 12 after being ratified by better than 90 percent of all the votes cast. A two-thirds vote was required to pass the amendments but this requirement was far surpassed. During the 30-day vote, 4,178 votes were cast in favor and only 322 against. The name of the district union was changed and it is now the Seafarers International Union, Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes, and Inland Waters District. The constitution also provides for a monthly membership meeting system. 1993 Seafarers aboard the OMI Charger endured up to eight-foot swells to rescue seven Cuban refugees while the tanker was steaming toward Port Everglades, Fla. on May 6. Bosun Eugene Beverly reported that AB Oscar Hammond was standing watch when he spotted an unknown number of people aboard a small raft in the distance waving frantically. The vessel reached the raft and found six adults and one child. The group had left Cuba for America four days earlier. They were completely out of food and nearly out of water. The entire rescue effort took under an hour from start to finish. The refugees travelled with the crew to port, where they were taken into the custody of the Coast Guard. Seafarers LOG 17 �64199_Log_May11:May 2011 4/20/2011 5:38 PM Page 18 Fina l De pa r tu r e s DEEP SEA TIMOTHY ELLIS Brother Timothy Ellis, 49, passed away January 6. He signed on with the Seafarers in 1979. Brother Ellis, a member of the steward department, first sailed on a Waterman Steamship Corporation vessel. He was born in Baltimore. Brother Ellis’s final ship was the President Adams. He resided in Seattle. JOHN JOHNSON Pensioner John Johnson, 90, died January 9. Brother Johnson first donned the SIU colors in 1963. He initially shipped aboard a vessel operated by Ambrose Transport Company. Brother Johnson, who sailed in the steward department, was born in Colorado. Prior to his retirement in 1985, he worked on the Philadelphia. Brother Johnson made his home in Seattle. HERBERT JOHNSON Brother Herbert Johnson, 66, passed away January 4. He started sailing with the union in 1967. Brother Johnson’s earliest trip was aboard the Steel Voyager. The steward department member’s last ship was the USNS Capella. Brother Johnson was a resident of Sicklerville, N.J. MUSTARI LALONG Brother Mustari Lalong, 63, died December 9. He began sailing with the Seafarers in 1979. Brother Lalong was born in Indonesia. His first ship was the Boston; his last was the Taurus. Brother Lalong sailed in the deck department. He settled in Woodside, N.Y. KEITH O’BRYAN Pensioner Keith O’Bryan, 56, passed away December 4. Brother O’Bryan joined the union in 1973. The deck department member originally worked aboard the Market. Brother O’Bryan was a native of Richland, Wash. Before his retirement in 2005, he sailed on the Atlantic. Brother O’Bryan resided in St. Petersburg, Fla. LARRIE PROFFITT Pensioner Larrie Proffitt, 99, died December 6. Brother Proffitt 18 Seafarers LOG became an SIU member in 1955. His first trip was with Ore Navigation Corporation. Brother Proffitt was born in Hawaii and sailed in the engine department. Brother Proffitt’s final ship was the Newark. He called Baltimore home. REYNALDO RODRIGUEZ Pensioner Reynaldo Rodriguez, 83, passed away September 9. Brother Rodriguez joined the Seafarers in 1973. He was initially employed on the Overseas Alice. Brother Rodriguez was a member of the steward department. He was born in the Philippines. Brother Rodriguez’s most recent voyage was with OSG Tanker Corporation. He went on pension in 1992 and lived in California. CHARLIE STANFORD Pensioner Charlie Stanford, 77, died September 29. Brother Stanford signed on with the SIU in 1971 in the port of New York. His earliest trip was aboard the Overseas Alaska. Brother Stanford, who sailed in the steward department, last worked aboard the OMI Champion. He began receiving his pension in 1998 and settled in Louisiana. CARL TREITLER Pensioner Carl Treitler, 83, passed away January 6. Brother Treitler was born in New Orleans. He started sailing with the union in 1953. A member of the steward department, his first ship was the Del Monte. Prior to retiring in 1984, Brother Treitler made a last trip aboard the Del Monte. He was a resident of Arabi, La. ROBERTO ZARAGOZA Pensioner Roberto Zaragoza, 88, died January 11. He first donned the SIU colors in 1941 while in the port of New York. Brother Zaragoza’s earliest trip was aboard the Elizabeth. He was born in the Dominican Republic and sailed in the deck department. Brother Zaragoza’s final voyage was on the Arecibo. He made his home in Huntington, N.Y. INLAND JOHN FITZGERALD Pensioner John Fitzgerald, 92, passed away December 1. Brother Fitzgerald started his seafaring career in 1961 while in Norfolk, Va. He initially sailed in the deck department aboard a vessel operated by Moran Towing of Virginia. Brother Fitzgerald last shipped with Atlantic Towing Company. He went on pension in 1989 and lived in Virginia Beach, Va. ELIAS ROMERO Pensioner Elias Romero, 82, died January 16. Brother Romero joined the union in 1964. He mostly shipped aboard vessels operated by Higman Barge Lines. Brother Romero was born in Mermentau, La. He started collecting his retirement compensation in 1987. Brother Romero was a resident of Lake Arthur, La. JAMES SISTARE Pensioner James Sistare, 94, passed away November 5. Brother Sistare was born in South Carolina. He began shipping with the SIU in 1976 while in Houston. Brother Sistare primarily sailed with Marine Contracting & Towing Company. He retired in 1983. Brother Sistare made his home in Ravenel, S.C. GREAT LAKES MERLE DICKENS Pensioner Merle Dickens, 72, died October 28. Brother Dickens signed on with the SIU in 1962. He shipped aboard vessels operated by Great Lakes Towing Company for the duration of his career. Brother Dickens became a pensioner in 2000. He called Ohio home. Editor’s note: The following brothers, all former members of the National Maritime Union (NMU), have passed away. NATIONAL MARITIME UNION FRANCIS BAILEY Pensioner Francis Bailey, 84, passed away December 21. Brother Bailey was born in South Carolina. He retired in 1969 and resided in Prince George, Va. FREDERICK BAUER Pensioner Frederick Bauer, 85, died December 24. Brother Bauer, a native of Minnesota, became a pensioner in 1985. He called Texas City, Texas, home. FRED BLACKMON Pensioner Fred Blackmon, 92, passed away December 7. Brother Blackmon was born in Alabama. He went on pension in 1985. Brother Blackmon settled in Upper Marlboro, Md. RUDOPH CAMPOS Pensioner Rudolph Campos, 85, died December 17. The Texasborn mariner became a pensioner in 1967. Brother Campos was a resident of Houston. MIGUEL FERREIRA Pensioner Miguel Ferreira, 90, passed away December 17. Brother Ferreira was a native of Puerto Rico. He started collecting his retirement compensation in 1984. Brother Ferreira lived in Bronx, N.Y. VIVIAN GARCIA Pensioner Vivian Garcia, 94, died December 23. Sister Garcia was born in North Carolina. She went on pension in 1988 and called Rocky Mount, N.C., home. WILSON HALL Pensioner Wilson Hall, 93, passed away December 24. Brother Hall was a native of Dallas. He retired in 1966. Brother Hall made his home in New York. WALTER HARRISON Pensioner Walter Harrison, 86, died December 4. Brother Harrison was born in Whippany, N.J. He became a pensioner in 1968. Brother Harrison settled in Brandon, Fla. CHARLES HENDERSON Pensioner Charles Henderson, 85, passed away December 6. Brother Henderson was a Wisconsin native. He started collecting his retirement compensation in 1980. Brother Henderson lived in Waupaca, Wisc. MATTHEW IDZIK Pensioner Matthew Idzik, 86, died December 17. Brother Idzik, a native of Rhode Island, went on pension in 1984. He called Reno, Nev., home. THOMAS LANTRY Pensioner Thomas Lantry, 91, passed away December 11. Brother Lantry was born in Union City, N.J. He began receiving his pension in 1973. Brother Lantry continued to live in New Jersey. JUAN MARTINEZ Pensioner Juan Martinez, 90, died December 4. Born in Puerto Rico, he became a pensioner in 2001. Brother Martinez was a resident of Ponce, P.R. FRANCIS McCLAIN Pensioner Francis McClain, 83, passed away November 26. Brother McClain was a Pennsylvania native. He retired in 1966. Brother McClain made his home in Portage, Pa. PEDRO PAGAN Pensioner Pedro Pagan, 74, died October 2. Brother Pagan was born in Puerto Rico. He went on pension in 1992. Brother Pagan settled in New York. CHARLIE ROBINSON Pensioner Charlie Robinson, 84, passed away November 21. Brother Robinson, a native of Alabama, started collecting his retirement compensation in 1988. He called Gwynn Oak, Md., home. JUAN ROSARIO Pensioner Juan Rosario, 80, died December 3. Brother Juan Rosario was born in Puerto Rico. He began receiving his pension in 1996. Brother Rosario resided in Long Beach, Calif. EDWARD ROURKE Pensioner Edward Rourke, 93, passed away December 11. Brother Rourke was a Louisiana native. He became a pensioner in 1974. Brother Rourke was a resident of Thibodaux, La. HERMAN SYKES Pensioner Herman Sykes, 83, died November 24. Brother Sykes was born in Jacksonville, Fla. He retired in 1971. Brother Sykes continued to live in Florida. FEDERICO THOMPSON Pensioner Federico Thompson, 84, passed away December 4. The Honduras native went on pension in 1981. Brother Thompson settled in Algiers, La. WALLACE THORNTON Pensioner Wallace Thornton, 78, died December 28. Brother Thornton was born in Port Arthur, Texas. He started collecting his retirement compensation in 1971. Brother Thornton continued to make his home in Texas. CARMELO VELEZ Pensioner Carmelo Velez, 87, passed away December 25. Brother Velez, a native of Puerto Rico, went on pension in 1988. He called New York home. May 2011 �64199_Log_May11:May 2011 4/20/2011 5:38 PM Page 19 D i g es t o f S h ip b oa r d U n io n M e et i ng s ALLIANCE BEAUMONT (Maersk Line, Limited), February 5 – Chairman Frank P. Hedge, Secretary Michael H. Watts, Educational Director Joseph C. Grandinetti, Deck Delegate Idowu Jonathan, Engine Delegate Johnny Swinson, Steward Delegate Carlos Diaz. Bosun expressed gratitude to Seafarers for keeping ship clean and separating plastic from trash. He asked them to make sure cabins were clean when they are turned over to arriving reliefs. Steward department was praised for keeping crew “looking forward to each and every meal.” Secretary reminded those departing the vessel to leave dirty linen in laundry bag located in passageway. He thanked fellow crew members for keeping messhall clean. Deck department was thanked for help with trash. Educational director urged members to enhance their skills, which can lead to better opportunities and advancement. He also reminded them to keep documents current and contribute to SPAD (Seafarers Political Activity Donation). No beefs or disputed OT reported. Request was made to increase pension and medical benefits. Next ports: Jacksonville, Fla., Charleston, S.C., Baltimore, Md., Wilmington, Del. and Beaumont, Texas. DEPENDABLE (Transoceanic Cable Ship Company), February 28 – Chairman Sanyboy Whiting, Secretary Emmanuel Laureta, Educational Director Ely Cuaresma, Deck Delegate Jose Bautista, Engine Delegate Cecilio Banga. Chairman reported a smooth, safe voyage and discussed ship’s itinerary. Secretary suggested that all Seafarers become familiar with the contract and informed them that copies were available at the port. Educational director advised everyone to upgrade at the SIUaffiliated school in Piney Point, Md., and make sure they stay up-todate on their TWIC and MMD/MMC. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Treasurer stated that ship fund money was used to purchase a ping-pong table. GREAT LAND (Totem Ocean Trailer Express, Inc.), February 20 – Chairman Stanley Gurney, Secretary Dadang B. Rashidi, Educational Director Jerome D. Chief Cook Recognized for Shipboard Safety Vessel Master Bill Dutour alerted the LOG that Chief Cook David Moses (sixth from left in group photo at right, with the captain and other mariners) in early April earned a safety award for his actions aboard the Maersk Wyoming. The award is part of a continuing program sponsored by Maersk Line, Limited. According to Dutour, “David’s prompt action during a fire in the freeze box allowed the ship to respond in a timely fashion and avoid any damage or injuries.” The chief cook, who has completed a number of upgrading courses at the union-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, also is pictured with AB Mohamed S. Soliman (left in bottom right photo) during a cookout. Shown in the remaining photo are QEE Carl Montoya, AB Koksal Demir, GUDE Magdy Elkeik and AB Arsenio Omabao. Culbreth, Deck Delegate Ali Saleh, Steward Delegate Rudy D. Olivas. Chairman reported members did a great job maintaining SIU standards aboard ship. He informed everyone that vessel will lay up around February 28. Secretary expressed his appreciation for crew’s help keeping ship clean. Educational director reminded mariners to take every opportunity to upgrade at the Piney Point school. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Seafarers would like to have access to wireless internet while in port. Suggestion was made to increase health benefits for members and dependents. Next port: Tacoma, Wash. Champion Docks in Port Elizabeth This photo of the Sealand Champion galley gang was taken in mid-March after the vessel arrived in Port Elizabeth, N.J. Standing left to right are Chief Cook Jose P. Constantino, Recertified Steward Willie Massaline and SA Scott Accardi. May 2011 The Seafarers LOG attempts to print as many digests of union shipboard minutes as possible. On occasion, because of space limitations, some will be omitted. Ships’ minutes first are reviewed by the union’s contract department. Those issues requiring attention or resolution are addressed by the union upon receipt of the ships’ minutes. The minutes are then forwarded to the Seafarers LOG for publication. HARRIETTE (Sealift, Inc.), February 20 – Chairman Andrew C. Jones, Secretary George Quinn, Educational Director Demond J. Lindsey, Deck Delegate Amos A. Idris, Engine Delegate Aranda Fausto, Steward Delegate Isabel Miranda. Bosun thanked crew for a safe trip and for their hard work. He announced that the Harriette is ending 33 years of service in May 2011. Educational director encouraged seamen to upgrade whenever possible to improve skills and better their chances of moving up. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Chairman read and discussed president’s report from the January 2011 Seafarers LOG. Vote of thanks was given to the steward department. HORIZON EAGLE (Horizon Lines), February 21 – Chairman Rufino J. Giray, Secretary Joseph J. Gallo, Educational Director David M. Parker, Deck Delegate Peter Koucky, Steward Delegate Yahya Ali. Chairman announced payoff on February 27 in San Pedro, Calif. He also urged crew to check expiration dates on documents. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Clarification requested regarding call-back policy. Mariners expressed appreciation for Chief Cook Ali and Steward Assistant Ahmed Mussa for great service and going above and beyond their duties. Next ports: San Pedro, Calif., Oakland, Calif. and Guam. HORIZON PRODUCER (Horizon Lines), February 6 – Chairman Paul Dornes, Secretary Larry Ewing, Educational Director Angel S. Hernandez, Deck Delegate Hector Barnes, Steward Delegate Juan Vallejo. Chairman announced pay- off, reminded crew to clean rooms before departing, and thanked steward department for great food. Secretary urged members to contribute to SPAD, the union’s voluntary political action fund, and recommended upgrading at the Paul Hall Center to facilitate career advancement. Educational director reminded fellow members to keep TWIC and other credentials up-todate. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew reiterated bosun’s appreciation of steward department. Mariners mentioned that they rescued two fishermen at sea. (Editor’s note: See page 4 of the April LOG for related article, also available at www.seafarers.org.) Next port: Jacksonville, Fla. HORIZON TRADER (Horizon Lines), February 27 – Chairman Tony Mercado, Secretary Kevin M. Dougherty, Educational Director Thomas M. Flynn, Deck Delegate Xavier Alfaro, Engine Delegate Jermaine Love, Steward Delegate Charles Davis. Chairman said payoff would take place at sea, before ship’s scheduled March 4 arrival in Jacksonville, Fla. He thanked steward department for good barbecues and fine food, and also thanked deck gang for their good work. Educational director advised everyone to upgrade and also to make sure they stay up-todate on their TWIC and merchant mariner credential. Treasurer reported roughly $2,500 in ship’s fund. Crew purchased new TV to watch safety movies as a group. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew asked for option to have direct deposit for vacation checks. They discussed contractual issue specific to Horizon and said they would ask patrolman for clarification. Next ports: Jacksonville; San Juan, P.R.; and Elizabeth, N.J. PHILADELPHIA EXPRESS (Crowley), February 14 – Chairman Timothy J. Jackson, Secretary Charles E. Curley, Educational Director Fidel C. Blanco, Deck Delegate Michael Brisco, Steward Delegate Henry Richardson. Chairman said the voyage to northern Europe went well, and he thanked steward department for good work. Secretary conveyed steward department’s thanks to STOS and wiper for keeping house clean. Also thanked SA and cook for jobs well done. Educational director advised everyone to take advantage of courses offered at Piney Point. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew gave vote of thanks to SIU President Michael Sacco for his successful efforts to preserve shipboard jobs. Crew expressed desire to schedule upgrading courses well in advance. Next port: Houston. USNS BUTTON (AMSEA), February 7 – Chairman Jo C. Postell, Secretary Dennis Redding, Educational Director Efren Villerosa, Deck Delegate Gregory L. Jackson, Steward Delegate Edward Ellis. Crew talked about deck-department security watches and suggested a potential procedural improvement. They suggested changing the name of vacation benefits, at least where the actual checks are concerned. Educational director recommended upgrading at Paul Hall Center. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew requested new DVD player and clarification about different levels of health benefits. Seafarers LOG 19 �64199_Log_May11:May 2011 4/20/2011 5:38 PM Page 20 Stewards Complete Highest Level of Training Available Continued from Page 7 union’s health and benefits plan. “All of that was because of bad or misinformation that I had received from the wrong sources,” he said. “Now that I have the correct information, I don’t feel the same way because I now know how the health and benefit plan works,” he said. “The same holds true for SPAD. I now understand why it is necessary and how it helps protect all of our interests.” McHellen credited the instructors for doing a great job in all aspects of the curriculum. “This class was very valuable to me in so many ways,” he said. “I learned how the union works from top to bottom, how our leadership works so hard to protect our current jobs and secure new ones. “I just want to thank everyone for this opportunity,” he concluded. Ramos, whose home port is New York, has worn the SIU colors for more than 10 years. After attending and graduating from the Paul Hall Center’s unlicensed apprentice course in 1991, the New York-born mariner returned to the school on several occasion to augment his skills. Ramos told the audience that he loved all aspects of the recertification course and was particularly impressed with the segment dealing with union education. “The union education portion of the training provided very good information,” he said. “I look forward to passing it on to fellow brothers and sisters aboard ship. Knowledge is power.” He credited the instructors for doing a great job and had high praise for the varied accomplishments headquarters officials have achieved on behalf of the membership. Ramos also noted that several changes have taken place at the school since he was last on campus. “All of it is still perfect,” he said. “This is the only place that I would say always welcomes you with open arms. FINANCIAL REPORTS. The Constitution of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU makes specific provision for safeguarding the membership’s money and union finances. The constitution requires a detailed audit by certified public accountants every year, which is to be submitted to the membership by the secretary-treasurer. A yearly finance committee of rank-and-file members, elected by the membership, each year examines the finances of the union and reports fully their findings and recommendations. Members of this committee may make dissenting reports, specific recommendations and separate findings. TRUST FUNDS. All trust funds of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU are administered in accordance with the provisions of various trust fund agreements. All these agreements specify that the trustees in charge of these funds shall equally consist of union and management representatives and their alternates. All expenditures and disbursements of trust funds are made only upon approval by a majority of the trustees. All trust fund financial records are available at the headquarters of the various trust funds. SHIPPING RIGHTS. A member’s shipping rights and seniority are protected exclusively by contracts between the union and the employers. Members should get to know their shipping rights. Copies of these contracts are posted and available in all union halls. If members believe there have been violations of their shipping or seniority rights as contained in the contracts between the union and the employers, they should notify the Seafarers Appeals Board by certified mail, return receipt requested. The proper 20 Seafarers LOG “Don’t let anyone discourage you in the pursuit of your goals,” Ramos told the trainees. “Keep up the good work in your current studies, and when you finish come back and upgrade often. If you do these things, you can go far.” He concluded by expressing his gratitude to all concerned for the opportunities the SIU has afforded him thus far in his maritime career. “The union has taken me a long way,” he said. “Thanks to everyone who played a role in making it all possible.” A Seafarer since 1989, Huyett told the audience that he thoroughly was impressed with the quality and scope of the training he received during the recertification course. “The instructors were very professional, and the classes were pertinent and always to the point,” he said. “The course length was good, not overly long and students did not feel rushed.” The recertification class marked the fifth time Huyett has been at the school for training. “I was a member of unlicensed apprentice Class 439 and returned here in 1991, 1995 and again in 2003 for third cook, chief cook and BST,” he said. Like a couple of his classmates, Huyett particularly enjoyed the ServSafe portion of the curriculum. In his view, this is “a must for anyone in the industry who is involved in food service.” He also found his visit to SIU Headquarters and downtown Washington, D.C., to be very informative. “Perhaps now I can answer questions about the union and be certain that the answers given are correct,” he said. “I now have a better appreciation and understanding of how the union works, what is expected of us as members and what we should be doing.” Huyett offered encouragement to the trainees and told them to take full advantage of the opportunities they are being afforded through the union. “There’s noth- John Huyett (left) and Samuel Harris practice their skills during the CPR module of their recertification training. ing out there that gives you the level of training and types of opportunities that the union does,” he said. “This school is unique to the industry and is an excellent tool…. I urge you all to take advantage of it.” Huyett then thanked union officials for their leadership, support and the lifestyle that being a Seafarer has afforded him. “It’s been a good ride so far,” he said. “I’m still here and I thank everyone who made it possible.” Harris was the final speaker to address the audience. He joined the SIU in 1990 in San Francisco and sails out of Oakland. Prior to the recertification course, Harris had twice spent time upgrading at the Paul Hall Center. While he enjoyed the entire steward recertification curriculum, Harris said he was most impressed by the segments on union education and ServSafe. “The union education part was the most important for me,” he said. “Just gaining some working knowledge on how the union works at getting jobs and keeping them for the membership made me look at it (the union) in a new light. The ServSafe class also was very helpful to me because it made me take a look at myself, the way I do things aboard ship and how we run our entire operation.” Evaluating his overall experience at the school during recertification training, Harris said that “things could not have been better. Everyone and everything— including the instructors, staff and also my union shipmates—was outstanding.” Turning to the trainees, Harris told them to work hard, ask questions and to upgrade their skills whenever possible. “Thanks to the union and this school, you don’t have to have a college degree to earn a good living,” he concluded. PAYMENT OF MONIES. No monies are to be paid to anyone in any official capacity in the SIU unless an official union receipt is given for same. Under no circumstances should any member pay any money for any reason unless he is given such receipt. In the event anyone attempts to require any such payment be made without supplying a receipt, or if a member is required to make a payment and is given an official receipt, but feels that he or she should not have been required to make such payment, this should immediately be reported to union headquarters. SEAFARERS POLITICAL ACTIVITY DONATION — SPAD. SPAD is a separate segregated fund. Its proceeds are used to further its objects and purposes including, but not limited to, furthering the political, social and economic interests of maritime workers, the preservation and furthering of the American merchant marine with improved employment opportunities for seamen and boatmen and the advancement of trade union concepts. In connection with such objects, SPAD supports and contributes to political candidates for elective office. All contributions are voluntary. No contribution may be solicited or received because of force, job discrimination, financial reprisal, or threat of such conduct, or as a condition of membership in the union or of employment. If a contribution is made by reason of the above improper conduct, the member should notify the Seafarers International Union or SPAD by certified mail within 30 days of the contribution for investigation and appropriate action and refund, if involuntary. A member should support SPAD to protect and further his or her economic, political and social interests, and American trade union concepts. Kn ow Y o u r R i gh t s address for this is: Augustin Tellez, Chairman Seafarers Appeals Board 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 Full copies of contracts as referred to are available to members at all times, either by writing directly to the union or to the Seafarers Appeals Board. CONTRACTS. Copies of all SIU contracts are available in all SIU halls. These contracts specify the wages and conditions under which an SIU member works and lives aboard a ship or boat. Members should know their contract rights, as well as their obligations, such as filing for overtime (OT) on the proper sheets and in the proper manner. If, at any time, a member believes that an SIU patrolman or other union official fails to protect their contractual rights properly, he or she should contact the nearest SIU port agent. EDITORIAL POLICY — THE SEAFARERS LOG. The Seafarers LOG traditionally has refrained from publishing any article serving the political purposes of any individual in the union, officer or member. It also has refrained from publishing articles deemed harmful to the union or its collective membership. This established policy has been reaffirmed by membership action at the September 1960 meetings in all constitutional ports. The responsibility for Seafarers LOG policy is vested in an editorial board which consists of the executive board of the union. The executive board may delegate, from among its ranks, one individual to carry out this responsibility. CONSTITUTIONAL RIGHTS AND OBLIGATIONS. Copies of the SIU Constitution are available in all union halls. All members should obtain copies of this constitution so as to familiarize themselves with its contents. Any time a member feels any other member or officer is attempting to deprive him or her of any constitutional right or obligation by any methods, such as dealing with charges, trials, etc., as well as all other details, the member so affected should immediately notify headquarters. EQUAL RIGHTS. All members are guaranteed equal rights in employment and as members of the SIU. These rights are clearly set forth in the SIU Constitution and in the contracts which the union has negotiated with the employers. Consequently, no member may be discriminated against because of race, creed, color, sex, national or geographic origin. If any member feels that he or she is denied the equal rights to which he or she is entitled, the member should notify union headquarters. NOTIFYING THE UNION — If at any time a member feels that any of the above rights have been violated, or that he or she has been denied the constitutional right of access to union records or information, the member should immediately notify SIU President Michael Sacco at headquarters by certified mail, return receipt requested. The address is: Michael Sacco, President Seafarers International Union 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746. May 2011 �64199_Log_May11:May 2011 4/20/2011 10:00 PM Page 21 P a u l H a ll C e nt e r U p g ra d ing C o u rs e Sc he d u le The following is the schedule of courses at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md., for the next few months. All programs are geared to improving the job skills of Seafarers and to promoting the American maritime industry. Please note that this schedule may change to reflect the needs of the membership, the maritime industry and—in times of conflict—the nation’s security. Students attending any of these classes should check in the Saturday before their course’s start date. The courses listed here will begin promptly on the morning of the start dates. For classes ending on a Friday, departure reservations should be made for Saturday. Seafarers who have any questions regarding the upgrading courses offered at the Paul Hall Center may call the admissions office at (301) 994-0010. Title of Course Start Date Date of Completion May 30 July 18 June 24 August 12 May 2 May 6 Deck Department AB ECDIS May 23 July 18 Fast Rescue Boats GMDSS June 13 Radar Observer (Unlimited) June 24 August 8 Radar Recertification (1 day) August 19 May 16 STOS May 16 May 16 Tank Ship Familiarization August 5 May 16 May 20 May 16 Basic Auxiliary Plant Ops May 27 Engine Department FOWT May 30 July 25 June 24 August 19 May 9 July 1 June 27 Junior Engineer Machinist July 22 August 1 Marine Electrician August 19 May 9 July 18 Welding July 1 September 9 May 9 May 27 UPGRADING APPLICATION Name ____________________________________________________________________ Address __________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________ Telephone (Home)_________________________ (Cell)_________________________ Date of Birth ______________________________________________________________ Deep Sea Member ❏ Lakes Member ❏ Inland Waters Member ❏ If the following information is not filled out completely, your application will not be processed. Social Security #_______________________ Book # ____________________________ Seniority_____________________________ Department______________________ Home Port_____________________________________________________________ E-mail________________________________________________________________ Endorsement(s) or License(s) now held______________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________ Are you a graduate of the SHLSS/PHC trainee program? ❏ Yes ❏ No Have you attended any SHLSS/PHC upgrading courses? ❏ Yes ❏ No If yes, class # ______________________________________________________________ If yes, course(s) taken_____________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________________ May 2011 Start Date Welding June 6 July 11 BST/Basic Fire Fighting MSC Readiness Refresher May 13 July 22 May 16 May 20 June 24 May 16 June 13 August 1 Vessel Security Officer Certified Chief Steward May 9 July 18 June 20 Medical Care Provider Date of Completion June 24 July 29 Safety Upgrading Courses Government Vessels May 20 June 17 August 5 May 9 July 11 May 10 July 12 Steward Department July 9 September 23 Chief Cook These modules start every other week. The most recent class began May 2. Galley Operations/Advanced Galley Operations These modules start every Monday May 27 July 25 Tank PIC Barge DL Water Survival May 27 July 22 Title of Course Important Notice Students who have registered for classes at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, but later discover—for whatever reason—that they cannot attend should inform the admissions department immediately so arrangements can be made to have other students take their places. With this application, COPIES of the following must be sent: One hundred and twentyfive (125) days seatime for the previous year, one day in the last six months prior to the date your class starts, USMMD (z-card) front and back or relevant pages of merchant mariner credential, front page of your union book indicating your department and seniority, qualifying seatime for the course if it is Coast Guard tested, 1995 STCW Certificate, valid SHBP Clinic Card and TWIC. COURSE ____________________________ START DATE _______________ DATE OF COMPLETION _______________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________ ____________________________ ____________________________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________ _______________ _______________ _______________ _______________ LAST VESSEL: __________________________________Rating: ______________ Date On: ___________________________ Date Off:________________________ SIGNATURE ________________________________ DATE___________________ NOTE: Transportation will be paid in accordance with the scheduling letter only if you present original receipts and successfully complete the course. If you have any questions, contact your port agent before departing for Piney Point. Not all classes are reimbursable.Return completed application to: Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education Admissions Office, P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674-0075; or fax to (301) 994-2189. The Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education is a private, non-profit, equal opportunity institution and admits students, who are otherwise qualified, of any race, nationality or sex. The school complies with applicable laws with regard to admission, access or treatment of students in its programs or activities. 5/11 Seafarers LOG 21 �64199_Log_May11:May 2011 4/20/2011 5:38 PM Page 22 P a u l H a l l C en t er C l a s s es Unlicensed Apprentice Water Survival Class 741 – Eleven Phase I unlicensed apprentices completed their training in this 60-hour course Dec. 23. Those graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Juan Bautista, Sean Branch, Ryan Brown, James Cronk III, Bannacke Figueroa, Timothy Heffernan, Victor Milian, Kyle Silva, Jarvis Stanley, Geoffrey Stevens, and Kevin Sykes. Welding – Nine upgraders finished this 103-hour course March 25. Those graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Rigoberto Beata, Kenneth Bricker, Claytain Carr, Todd Favaza, Braden Horne, Welsey Hughes, Keith McIntosh, Lawrence Todd, and Kareim Wright. Their instructor, Buzzy Andrews, is third from the right. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Unlicensed Apprentice Water Survival Class 742 – Eighteen Phase I unlicensed apprentices completed their requirements in this class Jan. 21. Graduating from the 60-hour course (above, in alphabetical order) were: Mike Adorno, Kyle Bennett, Richard Brockway, Sean Callahan, Autumn Cole, Ryan Dapello, Jonathan Essen, Dustin Hutchins, Tyrell Jones, Brian Lanata, Theresa Lattimore, Keith Marion, Edward Martinez, David Mason, Diani Melendez, William Mercer Jr., Angela Porter and Matthew Timson. (Note: Not all are pictured.) FOWT – Twenty Seafarers completed the enhancement of their skills in this course April 1. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were:Tousif Ahmed, James Anderson, Jason Bimle, John Cooper, Randy Corey, Jason Greene, Andrew Gronotte, Joshua Harris, Patrick Kirkland, Anthony Kpodovia, Devin Nesbitt, Xavier Normil, Valentine Okei, Lamar Pinckney, Lionel Rivera, Hipoita Roches, Robert Scrivens, Marcel Soares, Sutthipong Ticer and Florian Turcios. Class instructor Tim Achorn is at the far right. GMDSS – Six upgraders finished their requirements in this course March 11. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Steven Corachan, Adel Irani, Timothy Littles, Samuel Lloyd, Larry Rawlins and Christopher Ruggiero. Class instructor Brad Wheeler is at the far right. Tankship Familiarization DL – Two classes of Phase III unlicensed apprentices completed their training in this 63-hour course of study March 25. Graduating and receiving certificates (above, in alphabetical order) were: Abdullah Alamri, Jeremy Boyd, Christopher Brown, Adam Bucalo, John Burris, Robert Costa Jr., Anthony Dell Aquila, Michael Fertl, Joseph Griggs, Howard Guilliams, Ross Halsted, Joshua Hammons, Abobakr Hasan, David Kabasinskas, Matthew Maynard, Ronilo Monares, Zeyad Muthala, Michael Page, Joseph Panella, Dhahabi Quraish, Michael Reed, Johnny Sawyer, Samuel Shuebrooks, Daniel Stepnik, Zachrey Stevenson, Lear Surcedo, Samir Tarsha and Demilton Wheat. 22 Seafarers LOG Students who have registered for classes at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, but later discover—for whatever reason—that they cannot attend should inform the admissions department immediately so arrangements can be made to have other students take their places. May 2011 �64199_Log_May11:May 2011 4/20/2011 5:38 PM Page 23 Pa u l H a l l C e n t e r C l a s s e s Government Vessels – The following Seafarers (left, in alphabetical order) completed their training in this course March 4: Raymond Alexander, Harold Borden, Deloris Brown, William Carney, Gorden Cherup, Virgilio Demegillo, Antonio Donald, Sabba Ghaleb, Derrick Martin, Michael Mendoza, Hipolita Roches, Florian Turcios, and Wayne Wilson. Their instructor, Mark Cates, is at the far right. Junior Engineer – Twenty-four upgraders finished their requirements in this course March 4. Those graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Noli Aguirre, Wendell Brown, Claytain Carr, Richard Digman, DeMorris Duggins, Mohammed Elazzouzi, Vorden Ferguson, Marcus Gramby, Tsawang Gyurme, Chad Hess, Braden Horne, Wesley Hughes, Michael Kelly, Damien Law, Bobby Maharaj, Freddie Malbas, Nakesha Miller, Alex Oliva, Elmer Rochez, Cornelius Smith, Lawrence Todd, Elaine Watts and Kareim Wright. Jay Henderson, their instructor, is at the far right. (Note: Not all are pictured.) ECDIS (Crowley) – Six individuals completed their requirements in this course Dec. 16, 2010. Graduating and receiving certificates (above, in alphabetical order) were: Jonas Bognar, Bradley Burkart, Monte Cross Jr., Jeremiah Dougherty, Christopher Gross and Leo Venegas. Brad Wheeler, the class instructor, is at the far right. BST (Hawaii) - Seventeen individuals completed their requirements in this course March 12 at the Barbers Point, Hawaii-based Seafarers Training Facility. Graduating (above, in no particular order) were: Michale Truncale, Gretchen Nixon, Dominque Coles, Jennifer Edmonds, Douglas Helms, Steven Murray, Bobby Baker, Omar Finnikin, David Compton, Elaine McLemore, Jessica Creeks, Ronald Herndon, Maury Sails II, Mark Scarinci, Jarrod Douglas, Scott Olsen and Danny Winrow. May 2011 Electronic Navigation – Six Seafarers completed their training in this course March 18. Those graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Ray Adams Jr., Ronnie Boatwright Sr., Dominique Calvy, Samuel Lloyd, Dustin Marks and Hector Ortiz. Class Instructor Brad Wheeler is fourth from the left. BST (Hawaii) – The following individuals (above, in no particular order) graduated from this class at the Seafarers Training Facility in Barbers Point, Hawaii Jan. 29: Souphaphone Chanthathirath, Christopher Correa, Daniel Freed, Thien Ly Bui, Rhonda Goodwin, Joshua Souza, Jose Borrero, Jacob Dube, Elizabeth Hill, Tillie Morrison, Teresa Norris, Said Nuriyev, Jessica Taylor, Elaine King, Meagon Lefkakis, Brentton Stevens and John Ung. BST (Hawaii) – The following individuals (above, in no particular order) graduated from this class in Barbers Point, Hawaii, March 19: Max Borges, Michael Domagala, Joan Jontilano, Phillip Meade, Keneith Deal, Jeremy Nilsson, Erin Pandy, Eric Smith, Denis Alberga, Florante Abitong, Elonie Oliverio, Brandie Robinson, Anthony Scachetti, Ulyssis Ochoa, James Bass, Leigh Petterson, Codi Plourde, Phillip Beavides and Marcus Gonzalez. Seafarers LOG 23 �64199_Log_May11_X:May 2011 4/24/2011 10:57 PM Page 24 Volume 73, Number 5 May 2011 Annual Funding Notices Pages 10, 11 H e a v y L i f t i n g A l l I n a D a y ’ s W or k F o r U n i o n - C r e w e d B B C H o u st o n The SIU-crewed and AMSE A-opera ted BB C Houston in la te Marc h loade d a 450-ton t ugboat i n Tacom a, Wash. The tug, bui lt in Tac oma, was bound for J a p a n . P h o t o s o f t h e o p e r a t i o n a n d so m e o f t h e S I U cr ew ap p ea r o n th i s p a g e. The B BC Houst on refla gge d under t he St ars and Stri pes last fa ll. The 393-foot heavy-li ft ship was built in 2005. It is o u t f i t t e d w i t h t wo c r a n e s , h a s a b e a m o f 66 feet and c an sail at 16.5 knots. SIU members sailing aboard the BBC Houston during its recent voyage to Japan included (from left) Chief Steward Marcus Rowe, ACU Leroy Jenkins, QMED Gebar Ogbe, QMED Jasper McGirt, AB Loukas Frangias, QMED Mohammad Khan and AB John Springer. � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Seafarers Log Issues 2010-2019 Description An account of the resource Volumes LXXII-LXXXI of the Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Seafarers Log Digital Copies Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 2010-2019 Document A resource containing textual data. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre text. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource May 2011 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES ‘WE ARE ONE’ UNION MEMBERS NATIONWIDE MOBILIZE FOR WORKERS’ RIGHTS USNS MCLEAN CHRISTENED SIU RETAINS JOBS ON USNS STOCKHAM USNS WHEAT AS MAERSK WINS CONTRACT HORIZON LINES ATTEMPTING TO NAVIGATE FINANCIAL STRUGGLES UN BACKS PIRACY COURTS; SOS CAMPAIGN CONTINUES LANTZ GETS NOD AS U.S. NOMINEE FOR IMO POST USNS WILLIAM MCLEAN LAUNCHED IN SAN DIEGO NEWEST T-AKE VESSEL WILL JOIN GOVERNMENT SERVICES DIVISION FLEET MEMBERS VOTE ON EXTENSION FOR STANDARD AGREEMENTS U.S. MARITIME INDUSTRY RALLIES TO PREVENT LARGER CUTS TO FOOD AID UNION MEMBERS MOBILIZE FOR ‘WE ARE ONE’ SEAFARERS JOIN RALLIES TO DEFEND WORKERS’ RIGHTS NEW GMDSS EQUIPMENT PROVIDES ENHANCED TRAINING ACTIVE IN PORT OF HOUSTON STEWARDS CAPITALIZE ON UPGRADING OPPORTUNITIES LONGTIME MTD/SIIU OFFICIAL PECQUEX RETIRES N.Y. NATIVE ‘DEVOTED HIS ENTIRE LIFE TO THE LABOR MOVEMENT’ MARITIME COMMUNITY CONDUCTS 40TH ANNIVERSARY OBSERVANCE OF TEXACO OKLAHOMA SINKING MSC RECOGNIZES CIVMARS FOR FOOD SERVICE EXCELLENCE AROUND THE PORT OF JACKSONVILLE STEADY PROGRESS CONTINUES IN CMPI TALKS CIVMARS ASSIST IN KEY GOVERNMENT SERVICES DIVISION NEGOTIATIONS THE ED WOODS STORY- A TEENAGER IN WORLD WAR II HEAVY LIFTING ALL IN A DAY’S WORK FOR UNION-CREWED BBC HOUSTON Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Seafarers Log Digital Copies Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 05/01/2011 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Newsprint Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context Vol. 73, No. 5 2011 Periodicals Seafarers Log http://www.seafarerslog.org/archives/files/original/2b39e32a3cc2413fe483d8a970a82a55.pdf 3002a50fce33ab40fdc3a5e57ae677d3 PDF Text Text 64746_LOG 5/25/2011 8:35 PM Page 1 Volume 73, Number 6 June 2011 SIU Makes Strong Showing During Maritime Day Events D.C. Ceremonies Honor U.S. Mariners Gen. Duncan McNabb (left in photo at left, with SIU President Michael Sacco) was the featured speaker at two of the three National Maritime Day events May 19 in Washington, D.C. The yearly gatherings paid tribute to the U.S. Merchant Marine’s historic sacrifice and importance while also stressing the continued need for a strong American-flag fleet. In photo above, General McNabb and President Sacco are shown at the Washington Navy Yard with other SIU officials, VIPs and apprentices from the union-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education. In photo below, Unlicensed Apprentices Jason Allen (right) and Leo Onofrio (center) stand with Navy personnel during MSC’s ceremony. Pages 2, 12, 13. Overseas Tampa Delivered Page 3 Runaway-Flag Pitfalls Underscored Pages 4, 5 SHBP Scholarships Awarded Page 7 �64746_LOG 5/25/2011 8:57 PM Page 2 President’s Report SIU-NMU Merger a Winner Can you believe a decade has passed since the National Maritime Union merged into the SIU? It indeed has been 10 years since that historic occasion, which itself was decades in the making. I’m very pleased – and not the least bit surprised – to point out that the results of the merger have been every bit as good as expected. The nearly unanimous support of both memberships for the merger signified that the time was right. The leadership of both unions knew it, and that’s why we finally culminated an agreement which in earlier times seemed unachievable. Anyone who knows SIU and NMU history understands that we didn’t exactly operate in perfect harmony after our respective beginnings in 1938 (SIU) and 1937 (NMU). But, both when the Michael Sacco NMU affiliated with the Seafarers International Union of North America in 1998 and then again when the merger took place in 2001, I firmly maintained that men and women on a ship don’t care where you come from – they just care if you can do your job. And that’s exactly how the interaction between our memberships played out as we became one. Members didn’t ask if you were NMU or SIU, or if they did, it was an afterthought. They were focused on professionalism and delivering the goods, wherever and whenever needed. Rene Lioanjie, retired former president of the NMU and a key architect of the merger, recently told me that both in 2001 and today in 2011, he believes the move “is the best thing that could have happened to our members and to the U.S. Merchant Marine as a whole. For many years, I had been telling our members that a merger like this one was the only way to save our merchant marine. I got a lot of heat, but eventually, the members thanked me. Though we used to fight on the waterfront many years ago, I always respected the SIU, and I think it has turned out great for everyone.” I agree. The merger, just as we expected, has given a more powerful voice to mariners while creating a stronger manpower pool for national defense. I’m still shaking my head a little at the notion that 10 years have flown past, but this certainly is a happy anniversary. Honoring U.S. Mariners This year’s National Maritime Day ceremonies in the nation’s capital were truly first-class tributes to the American Merchant Marine. Both the U.S. Transportation Department’s Maritime Administration and the U.S. Navy’s Military Sealift Command “did it right” for the annual observances, which took place May 19. So did the Propeller Club, which featured one of the greatest military advocates our industry has ever known in Gen. Duncan McNabb, commander of the U.S. Transportation Command. (General McNabb also gave the keynote address at the MSC ceremony, as reported elsewhere in this edition.) We in the SIU do not take it for granted when individuals like General McNabb, MSC Commander Rear Adm. Mark Buzby, U.S. Senator Frank Lautenberg (featured at the MarAd ceremony) and Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood enthusiastically acknowledge the proud history of the U.S. Merchant Marine as well as the ongoing need to maintain a strong American-flag fleet. In that same vein, I appreciated this year’s National Maritime Day proclamation from President Obama, who cited not only the sacrifices of mariners past and present but also the critical role our seafarers play in U.S. national and economic security. Similar sentiments were expressed across the country in related ceremonies in Texas, California, Virginia and elsewhere where the SIU participated. On behalf of our entire union, I thank everyone who helped plan and host those events, and I join in saluting the patriotism and professionalism of the U.S. Merchant Marine. Volume 73, Number 6 June 2011 The SIU online: www.seafarers.org The Seafarers LOG (ISSN 1086-4636) is published monthly by the Seafarers International Union; Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU, AFLCIO; 5201 Auth Way; Camp Springs, MD 20746. Telephone (301) 899-0675. Periodicals postage paid at Southern Maryland 20790-9998. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to the Seafarers LOG, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. Communications Director, Jordan Biscardo; Managing Editor/Production, Jim Guthrie; Assistant Editor, Paddy Lehane; Photographer, Mike Hickey; Administrative Support, Misty Dobry. Copyright © 2011 Seafarers International Union, AGLIWD. All Rights Reserved. The Seafarers International Union engaged an environmentally friendly printer for the production of this newspaper. 2 Seafarers LOG Members-Only Section Highlights Newest Version of SIU Web Site The union is on schedule to launch an upgraded, expanded version of its web site by midJune. The newest adaptation of www.seafarers.org will have a more modern look and will integrate the SIU’s social media pages, but the biggest change is the addition of a members-only section. Active Seafarers will be able to register for individual access to the member portal by entering their date of birth and Social Security number. The member then will be asked to enter his or her email address and create a password. The portal itself initially is expected to include at least a handful of sections. Those screens feature a member profile, one listing dependents/beneficiaries, and another detailing various training that has been completed by the Seafarer. Other sections contain information on work history, medical benefit eligibility, and documentation (such as the Transportation Worker Identification Credential and merchant mariner credential) on file with the union. Most of the information in the member section is “read only,” but members will be able to edit and update certain fields, such as their home address, home and cell phone numbers. Once the new site has been launched, questions about the portal should be directed to the SIU’s membership assistance The newest version of the SIU web site still was being refined when this screen grab was taken, but the image reflects the basic layout, including member and company log-ins at the top. program at 1-800-252-4674. Additionally, authorized personnel from SIU-contracted companies will have access to a separate new section of the web site utilized for manpower functions. One of the most significant changes to the main site (first launched in 1997) is the addition of a gallery featuring lifeboat class photos and other images along with a few videos. The rest of the site will continue offering much of the same content as before, though in redesigned and more userfriendly fashion. That content includes articles from the Seafarers LOG as well as a complete PDF version of the current edition; course descriptions and dates for training available at the union-affiliated Paul Hall Center; a news section featuring some of the latest maritime and labor happenings; a schedule of upcoming membership meetings and a complete list of SIU halls; benefits plans booklets and notifications; various forms and more. “We are excited about launching the new site and think the membership will find the member-only portal useful,” said Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel. He added, “Additional member features will be added in the near future to better serve our membership and their families.” Mariners ‘More Critical Than Ever’ for U.S. A skilled U.S. Merchant Marine and strong U.S. shipbuilding industry are critical to America’s national and economic security, declared the Navy League of the United States in its recently released 2011-12 policy statement. The 32-page document credited the Jones Act and other U.S. maritime laws with playing a crucial role in today’s “irregular warfare environment.” Released in late April and titled “Internationally Engaged: Ensuring Freedom of the Seas,” the policy statement said of the U.S. Merchant Marine, “Skilled mariners are more critical than ever to ensuring our ability to sustain U.S. national and global security interests. Ninety-five percent of the equipment and supplies required to deploy the U.S. armed forces is moved by sea…. The shipping capabilities of the Maritime Administration’s Ready Reserve Force and the DoD’s Military Sealift Command are sized to support routine and some surge logistics and specialized mission requirements. This critical capability must be maintained by ensuring an active commercial U.S.-flag Merchant Marine to support efficient and cost-effective movement of DoD cargo.” The report added that America’s ability to access a “maritime capability of ships and seafarers is essential to our national and economic security…. Without these commercial capabilities, the U.S. government would be required to provide significantly more funds to build a replacement fleet and infrastructure while losing the pool of highly qualified mariners needed to sail these vessels.” The Navy League also emphasized the critical importance of a strong American shipyard capacity. Citing the benefits of Navy, Coast Guard and commercial shipbuilding, the League said, “It is essential that this nation have a policy at the highest levels of government to support and sustain an adequate industrial base capable of providing and supporting a strong Navy and maritime commerce.” The report said the Jones Act and other U.S. maritime laws boost security by adding a sealift capacity as well as an expanded pool of trained and experienced mariners to crew U.S. governmentowned sealift assets. These laws also help to sustain the U.S. shipbuilding and repair industrial In this Navy photo from early last year, humanitarian supplies are unloaded from the Seafarers-contracted Cornhusker State in Haiti. The Navy League cited this operation as just one example among many of how the nation relies on a strong U.S. Merchant Marine. (U.S. Navy Photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Kim Williams) base that is vital to the U.S. Navy. An industry spokesman commended the report and added that America’s domestic fleet provided half of the mariners needed to crew U.S. government-owned sealift vessels activated from reserve status to support military efforts in Iraq and Afghanistan “and we need to be certain the United States can continue to sustain this essential capacity.” The Navy League of the United States was founded in 1902 with the encouragement of President Theodore Roosevelt and has grown to become the foremost citizens’ organization to serve, support and stand with all the U.S. sea services – the Navy, Marine Corps, Coast Guard and U.S.-flag Merchant Marine. More than 50,000 members focus on two main initiatives. First, the Navy League’s public education efforts are designed to inform the nation, and its political leaders, of the vital importance to the country of comprehensive and fully prepared sea services. Second, the Navy League, primarily through its councils, provides support for active duty sea service personnel and their families. June 2011 �64746_LOG 5/25/2011 8:35 PM Page 3 Aker Philadelphia Delivers Tanker Overseas Tampa Seafarers are sailing aboard the new tanker Overseas Tampa, which was delivered in late April by Aker Philadelphia Shipyard. Scheduled to operate in the Jones Act trades for OSG, the Overseas Tampa is the twelfth Veteran Class product tanker built by Aker Philadelphia, a union-contracted shipyard. According to the yard, the on-schedule delivery of the Overseas Tampa marked the successful conclusion of an historic shipbuilding program that started in 2005. “The 12-ship program was one of the largest commercial ship construction efforts since World War II and has contributed towards making the U.S. fleet more environmentally friendly with the vessel’s double hull design and cleaner engines,” Aker Philadelphia said in a news release. The yard is building two additional tankers. The first vessel is under construction and production activities for the second tanker are scheduled to begin this summer. Both vessels are scheduled to be completed by first quarter of 2013. Each of the Veteran Class ships is 600 feet long and 46,000 DWT. Each of the tankers can carry 332,000 barrels of product and can sail at speeds greater than 14 knots. Those vessels are the Overseas Tampa, Overseas Chinook, Overseas Anacortes, Overseas Houston, Overseas Long Beach, Overseas Los Angeles, Overseas New York, Overseas Texas City, Overseas Boston, Overseas Nikiski, Overseas Martinez and Overseas Cascade. The Overseas Tampa readies for sea trials. (Photo by John Curdy) Gen. McNabb Cites ‘Superb’ U.S. Navy Takes Over Operation Efforts of Commercial Fleet Of Army’s High Speed Vessels During an April 7 hearing conduct- Fleet, the vessels of the RRF and the ed by the Senate Armed Services commercial U.S. Flag Fleet in the Committee, Gen. Duncan McNabb, MSP and Voluntary Intermodal commander, U.S. Transportation Support Agreement (VISA) are all Command, reiterated the vital need for required to meet the Nation’s strategic a strong U.S. sealift capability, and he sealift requirements. While cargo prefalso praised the efforts of the erence laws and national defense American commercial maritime indus- sealift policies ensure the viability of the U.S. flag commercial fleet, we try. During a question-and-answer ses- must also continue to keep the Surge sion at the hearing, Gen. McNabb said Fleet and Ready Reserve Force vessels TRANSCOM’s “commercial partners at an equal state of readiness as well as … stepped up superbly to both bring- our citizen mariners who man these ing this stuff out of Iraq and the stuff vessels during operations in USCENTinto Afghanistan….” He also COM and around the world…. “USTRANSCOM’s partnership described cargo preference laws and the U.S. Maritime Security Program as with the U.S. commercial sealift “really valuable so that we keep a industry and the Department of very, very strong U.S.-flag fleet, which Transportation has been vitally important in developing is in the interests of new routes for conthe taxpayer and in veying cargo the interest of the around the globe – war-fighter.” particularly to Following is an regions with undeexcerpt from Gen. veloped infrastrucMcNabb’s stateture. Through proment: grams like the “Sealift is the Maritime Security primary means for Program (MSP), delivering ground the Voluntary forces and sustainIntermodal Sealift ment during major Agreement and the combat operations, Voluntary Tanker and has been Agreement, the responsible for Department of delivering over 90 Defense gains percent of all cargo access to U.S. to Afghanistan and commercial capaIraq. Because of the Gen. Duncan McNabb bilities and transsuperb volunteer Commander, portation networks participation of U.S. Transportation Command while ensuring the commercial U.S.continued viability Flagged vessels in the Maritime Security Program (MSP), of both the U.S. flag fleet and the pool we did not have to activate a single of citizen mariners who man those ship in the Surge Fleet or the Ready vessels. Last year, Congress ensured Reserve Force (RRF) to meet the the continuation of the MSP by President’s aggressive timeline for the extending it an additional 10 years to surge and drawdown of forces in 2025. We look forward to working Afghanistan and Iraq—a remarkable with Congress and this committee to achievement. refine this program between now and “The large, medium speed, roll-on, the MSP implementation date in roll-off ships (LMSRs) in the Surge 2015.” June 2011 Civilian-Crewed Ships Will Further Advance U.S. Sealift Capabilities The U.S. Department of Defense on May 5 announced that the departments of the Navy and Army signed an agreement earlier in the month transferring all five of the Army’s joint high-speed vessels (JHSV) to the Navy. The Navy’s Military Sealift Command (MSC) will own and operate all 10 of the government’s JHSVs, which will be designated as USNS and crewed by civil service and contract mariners. The first of the ships is scheduled for deliver in December. According to MSC, initial plans for the JHSV program called for the Army to operate five of the vessels while the remainder would be assigned to the Navy. However, during meetings late last year, both services agreed to transfer the Army’s five JHSVs upon signing of the aforementioned memorandum. MSC has been slated to operate the Navy JHSVs since August 2008. In May 2010, MSC announced that the vessels would each have a core crew of 21 mariners – civil service mariners on the first JHSVs and civilian contract mariners on the remaining ones. In keeping with that decision, the first four JHSVs will be crewed by CIVMARS and the following six by civilian contract mariners, the agency reported. “This agreement with the Army demonstrates our commitment to reducing redundancies and saving money for the taxpayer,” said Secretary of the Navy Ray Mabus. “This is a responsible step that will ensure our military remains the most formidable fighting force the world has ever known.” The aluminum-hulled, catamaranstyle ships will be 103 feet long and will be able to sail at 35 knots fully loaded. The vessels closely will resemble the one shown in this rendition provided by shipbuilder Austal. Seafarers LOG 3 �64746_LOG_X2 5/26/2011 7:05 PM Page 4 MTD, ITF Back Coast Guard Report on Deepwater Horizon Agency Questions Safety Of Runaway Flags The Maritime Trades Department, AFLCIO recently applauded a U.S. Coast Guard report on the Deepwater Horizon tragedy that cites flag-of-convenience (FOC) or runaway-flag shipping as a detriment to safety. Around the same time in mid-May, the International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF) also backed the Coast Guard report and expanded on some of the problems related to FOCs. The SIU is affiliated both with the MTD and the ITF. In a letter addressed to U.S. Rep. Frank LoBiondo (R-N.Y.), chairman of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee’s Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation Subcommittee, MTD President Michael Sacco (who also serves as president of the SIU) said that the Coast Guard report (released in April) “casts a very critical eye specifically at the lax safety and emergency response culture aboard the Deepwater Horizon. It does not stop there. The Coast Guard notes many of these problems are found within the flag-of-convenience shipping industry. “The report questions the safety of ves- sels documented in open registry countries and specifically criticizes the Republic of the Marshall Islands (whose flag flew over the Deepwater Horizon),” the MTD letter continued. “It stated the country ‘effectively abdicated its vessel inspection responsibilities.’ It showed concern for a flag state to rely on classification societies to do its inspections, and said ‘these failings also raise questions with regard to the level of safety provided by the open registries.’” Sacco also commended the Coast Guard for taking a critical look at itself and for recommending possible steps the agency may take to boost safety and responsiveness. Identical copies of the letter were addressed to Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation Subcommittee Ranking Member Rick Larsen; Senate Oceans, Atmosphere, Fisheries and Coast Guard Subcommittee Chair Mark Begich and Ranking Member Olympia Snowe; and Senate Surface Transportation and Merchant Marine Infrastructure, Safety and Security Subcommittee Chair Frank Lautenberg and Ranking Member John Thune. The MTD is composed of 23 national and international unions representing five million workers. The ITF, consisting of hundreds of affil- iates and several million workers from across the globe, stated that the Coast Guard report “reinforces the International Transport Workers’ Federation’s long-held position that so-called flag-of-convenience or runaway-flag vessels often facilitate and even encourage unsafe business practices. The ITF recognizes that there are conscientious FOC operators and many have well trained crews (regardless of their nationality), but many FOC operators have no regard for the mariners, their competency and other victims who suffer as a result of the runaway-flag system. Putting swift profits ahead of safety, runaway-flag entities also risk catastrophic environmental damage like that which occurred last year when the rig exploded.” ITF Seafarers’ Section Chair David Heindel (who also serves as secretary-treasurer of the SIU) added, “The ITF applauds the Coast Guard’s focus on what happens when a flag state fails to oversee that its vessels comply with ISM and other international minimum standards. When rules and regulations are or become lax, conditions can deteriorate into confusion and chaos. This was seen aboard the Deepwater Horizon when it was off the Gulf Coast of the United States last year. It was not registered in the United States, which has a rich maritime history, but instead with the Marshall Islands, which lacks a strong regulatory regime.” He concluded, “In addition, international maritime organizations such as the ITF see such dangerous examples daily off the coast of Somalia, the Gulf of Oman where 40 percent of the world’s oil supply originates and in the Indian Ocean, as pirates count on such poor conditions to raid and capture under-crewed, under-prepared vessels and crews and poorly maintained vessels sailing under runaway flags. Piracy obviously pre-dates runaway-flag shipping, but the very same FOC system that arguably led to the Deepwater Horizon tragedy also is hampering international efforts to fight back against the modern version of at-sea terrorism. Without runaway flags, the vital task of ending piracy would be immeasurably easier as traditional maritime States would seek to protect their nations’ respective assets.” The full title of the Coast Guard report is: Report of Investigation into the Circumstances Surrounding the Explosion, Fire, Sinking and Loss of Eleven Crew Members Aboard the Deepwater Horizon in the Gulf of Mexico April 20-22, 2010 (Volume 1), MISLE Activity Number: 3721503. SIU President Urges Grassroots Action Times Are Tough In 2012 to Novelty Workers Union For TWIC Program Telling the more than 100 delegates to the 21st convention of the International Union of Allied, Novelty and Production Workers that Americans got what they voted for – or didn’t vote for by staying home – SIU President Michael Sacco said union members could not be complacent in the upcoming 2012 national elections. “We need to elect those who understand the needs of working people,” Sacco stated when he addressed the convention on May 11. “We need to participate and we need to make sure our members and our families are involved.” The Novelty Workers, who are affiliated with the SIU both through the AFL-CIO and the Maritime Trades Department, met in St. Pete Beach, Fla., for their weeklong gathering. Members of the union come from 15 states and represent 20 nationalities, all of which were represented by small flags on a table in front of the dais. The union represents workers in many fields including manufacturing, nursing homes, retail and more, according to President Mark Spano. Among the most visible items Novelty Workers produce are American-made Weber grills. Sacco noted a longtime slogan within the SIU that “Politics is pork chops. And what that means is that our ability to put food on the table and to keep a roof over our heads depends on having pro-worker representatives at every level of government and in the White House.” He added we may not agree with everything that has been done by the Obama Administration, but it beats what has taken place in states like Wisconsin, Ohio and Florida where workers stayed home on Election Day 2010. He said he was like everyone else in labor, hoping for more for workers from Washington after the 2008 elections. But, as he reminded the audience, look what President Obama was up against in terms of the worst economic crisis since the Great Depression. The MTD president provided the delegates with updates on what is happening within the U.S.-flag maritime industry as well as the global battle against piracy. To give the audience a better appreciation for seafarers, he 4 Seafarers LOG SIU President Michael Sacco addresses the convention. Novelty Workers President Mark Spano (left) and the delegates recently met in Florida. reminded the delegates that union American mariners delivered humanitarian aid to Haiti immediately the devastating earthquake, rescued the passengers and crew of the airliner that ditched in the Hudson River and kept control of the Maersk Alabama when pirates attacked it and took the captain. The convention also heard from Richard Kline, president of the Union Label and Service Trades Department, AFL-CIO; and representatives from the Florida AFL-CIO as well as the Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service. Convention delegates pose with SIU President Michael Sacco (front, second from left). Recent Congressional hearings and a government report have pointed out some potentially serious security problems with the Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC). The Government Accountability Office (GAO) launched an investigation into the effectiveness of the TWIC program and found some troubling results. According to a report released last month by the GAO, investigators were able to access secure areas of large U.S. ports using fake or fraudulently obtained TWIC cards. In one instance, the GAO investigators drove a “simulated explosive device” into a secure area of a port. “This investigation raises a disturbing question,” said Sen. Frank Lautenberg (D-N.J.). “Are America’s ports actually safer now than they were a decade ago?” TWIC cards were created as a part of the Maritime Transportation Security Act of 2002 (MTSA). The MTSA was enacted following the attacks on 9/11 in order to secure our ports from potential terrorist threats. The TWIC program was designed to ensure that mariners, truck drivers, longshoremen and other port workers have unescorted access to secure areas of the nation’s ports. In theory, the cards are an important tool in making sure that workers are allowed to perform their jobs with limited interference and that only people who have legitimate business in secure areas have access to them. The problems uncovered by GAO investigators dealt with lapses and oversights in security considerations. For example, U.S. Rep. John Mica (R-Fla.), chairman of the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure (and one of the individuals who requested the GAO report), testified at a Senate hearing that because of the lack of approved biometric card readers, “TWICs are at best no more useful than library cards.” Investigators found other problems, including opportunities to obtain a TWIC using false information and credentials. The federal government has already spent more than $400 million on the program and maritime workers are required to spend $135 every five years to obtain the necessary card. “I want the TWIC program to live up to its mandate,” said Sen. John D. Rockefeller IV (D-W.Va.). “I want it to keep our nation’s ports more secure. But as this report reveals, things need to change.” Rockefeller announced that he plans to introduce legislation that will address these and other shortcomings in port security this year. In spite of the GAO findings, the TWIC program is seen by some as an essential and necessary tool for securing our ports. “The TWIC program strengthens the security of our nation’s ports while facilitating trade through provision of a tamper-resistant biometric credential to all port workers requiring unescorted access,” said Transportation Security Administration (TSA) Administrator John S. Pistole. “The national implementation of the TWIC as the common credential verifying the identity and background suitability significantly enhances national maritime security….” June 2011 �64746_LOG_X2 5/26/2011 7:07 PM Page 5 New York Times Op-Ed Slams Runaway Flags NMC Commander, REC Branch Chief Tour School System Promotes Human Suffering, Harms Environment A recent opinion piece in The New unpunished an unaccountable.” For instance, the International York Times takes aim at so-called flags of convenience, also known as run- Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF, to which the SIU is affiliated) recovered away flags. The Times on April 24 published an $30 million in unpaid wages for op-ed by British author Rose George, mariners last year – money that otherwho is writing a book about merchant wise almost certainly would not have shipping. Headlined “Flying the Flag, been secured. “Globalization is no reason that Fleeing the State,” George’s article strongly and justifiably criticizes the states can’t take responsibility for the FOC system – a decades-old sham that ships they register,” George adds. SIU Secretary-Treasurer David often facilitates human suffering and Heindel serves as chair of the ITF’s environmental damage. The complete article is available Seafarers’ Section. In a follow-up communication to the Times, he congratuonline at: http://www.nytimes.com/2011/04/2 lates George “on her wide-ranging research and fact-checking. Sadly, 5/opinion/25george.html George points out that while piracy she’s right. The industry ranges from is a life-and-death matter plaguing the excellent employers and flag states to maritime industry, “maritime lawless- miserable crooks and hand-washing ness isn’t confined to pirates. Thanks flags. The latter’s ability to run rustto a system of ship registration called buckets and abandon crews at whim, ‘flags of convenience,’ it is all too easy thousands of miles from home, is facilfor unscrupulous shipowners to get itated by the FOC system, whose members are currently away with criminal so conspicuously They behavior. have evaded prose“Globalization is no reason failing to intercept or prosecute a sincution for environmental damage that states can’t take responsi- gle person responlike oil spills, as bility for the ships they regis- sible for that other current scourge or well as poor labor -- Author Rose George mariners’ lives: conditions, forcing ter.” the piracy that is crews to work like sweeping the slaves without adeIndian Ocean.” quate pay or rest.” On its web site, the ITF describes She goes on to explain the evolution of the runaway-flag system – a setup in runaway flags as providing “a means which a vessel’s flag differs from that of avoiding labor regulation in the of its owner’s home state. FOC country of ownership.” The federation shipowners also often use manning says FOCs have “become a vehicle for agents from still another different paying low wages and forcing long hours of work and unsafe working connation to hire multinational crews. “Under the flags of convenience ditions. Since FOC ships have no real system, registries have been divorced nationality, they are beyond the reach from government oversight,” George of any single national seafarers’ trade writes. “North Korea has a thriving union. “The ITF has therefore been obliged registry, as does landlocked Mongolia. Liberia’s registry, the second-largest in to take on internationally the role trathe world, flourished even during a ditionally exercised by national trade dozen years of civil war. (LOG editor’s unions – to organize and negotiate on note: The Liberian registry is based in behalf of FOC crews. For 50 years the Virginia.) Some registries allow ship ITF, through its affiliated seafarers and owners to change the flags they’re reg- dockers unions, has been waging a vigistered under within 48 hours; some orous campaign against shipowners require little more than a signature or who abandon the flag of their own an online form from an owner. Many country in search of the cheapest posdon’t require owners to disclose their sible crews and the lowest possible identities at all. Such easy anonymity training and safety standards for their ships.” is dangerous.” An entire section of the ITF web George concedes that there are “plenty of ships run by decent owners, site is devoted to the FOC campaign. but delinquency is too easy with open See www.itfglobal.org for more inforregistries, when owners can slip away, mation. ‘Flags of Convenience’ Countries The following countries have been declared FOCs by the International Transport Workers’ Federation’s Fair Practices Committee, a joint committee of the federation’s mariner and dockworker unions which runs the ITF campaign against runaway flags. The list is current as of May 2011, according to the ITF web site. Antigua and Barbuda Bahamas Barbados Belize Bermuda (UK) Bolivia Burma Cambodia Cayman Islands Comoros Cyprus June 2011 Equatorial Guinea French International Ship Register German International Ship Register Georgia Gibraltar (UK) Honduras Jamaica Lebanon Liberia Malta Marshall Islands Mauritius Mongolia Netherlands Antilles North Korea Panama Sao Tome and Príncipe St Vincent Sri Lanka Tonga Vanuatu The commanding officer of the U.S. Coast Guard National Maritime Center and the agency’s regional examination center branch chief on April 14 toured the Seafarersaffiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education. Capt. Anthony Lloyd (second from right) and Ken Skuches (second from left) were joined by Paul Hall Center Admissions Director Priscilla Labanowski (center) as well as John Mason (far left) and Mike Mason (far right) from American Service Technology, Inc. The guests observed how training is conducted on the Piney Point, Md., campus and also discussed with school officials various training requirements and NMC functions. U.S. Rep. Hoyer Brings Back ‘Make it in America’ Plan AFL-CIO President Says Bipartisan Agenda Would Create Jobs House Minority Whip Steny Hoyer (D-Md.) has reintroduced an endeavor to reinvigorate America’s manufacturing base in an effort to add jobs and boost the fragile economy. The plan, dubbed “Make it in America,” is a major campaign that includes more than 30 pieces of legislation, all of which are geared towards strengthening and expanding America’s domestic workforce. “We commend Democratic Whip Steny AFL-CIO President U.S. Rep. Steny Hoyer Hoyer for refocusing attenRich Trumka (D-Md.) tion on job creation by once again introducing the bipartisan ‘Make it in America’ goods and selling them abroad, we’ll continagenda,” said AFL-CIO President Richard ue to be a very successful country and create Trumka in a statement released by the feder- the kinds of jobs that are good-paying jobs ation. “It’s time for Congress to focus on with good benefits,” said Hoyer. “We know what Americans want and need most – jobs. that manufacturing, according to our own We need to create them, retain them and statistics, but also (according to) the National make sure that they are safe and family-sup- Association of Manufacturers, that when porting jobs.” you create a job in manufacturing, it has a Between the late 1940s and the 1970s, the multiplier effect in the job market generally.” United States had one of the largest and most Several components of the “Make it in vibrant manufacturing bases in the world. America” agenda have already become law. American workers were creating high-quali- Funds have been set aside for small busity products that were bought and sold across nesses who hire American workers. Tax the globe. In addition, many of these manu- loopholes for businesses that outsource jobs facturing jobs were family-sustaining, union to foreign countries have been closed, creatpositions, the federation pointed out. ing an incentive for companies to hire American workers still efficiently pro- Americans. Not only that, but taxes have duce quality goods equal or superior to those also been cut for small businesses and others available anywhere else around the world, who work and create goods and services at but the nation has lost much of its manufac- home. turing capabilities – and the good jobs that Proponents of the plan emphasize that go with it – due in part to flawed trade agree- more must be done in order to revitalize the ments, injurious tax laws and corporate middle class. exploitation of impoverished foreign workIn the face of a catastrophic economic ers. collapse, massive job loss and hardships put Focusing on creating jobs in the manu- on America’s working families, the bipartifacturing sector is part of what made this san “Make it in America” plan has the abilicountry’s middle class the largest and ty to turn things around for the country, strongest in the world, according to Hoyer, according to Hoyer and Trumka. whose district includes the SIU-affiliated “The nation can no longer live on legaPaul Hall Center for Maritime Training and cy,” said Trumka. “We need to invest in the Education, located in Piney Point, Md. coming decades to build a 21st century infraReviving that base can help us secure our structure and we must ensure that we actualmiddle class families for generations to ly make the technology and materials for the come, he said. things we are building and installing. The “The reason you focus on manufacturing, ‘Make it in America’ agenda is a big step in of course, is because Americans believe cor- the right direction to resolve our manufacrectly that if America is manufacturing turing crisis.” Seafarers LOG 5 �64746_LOG 5/25/2011 8:35 PM Page 6 The USNS Carl Brashear (vessel at right above) pulls alongside the USS Curtis Wilbur during a replenishment at sea as part of Operation Tomodachi. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class William Pittman) CIVMARS Remain True to Form, Answer Call to Duty During Operation Tomodachi Just as they have done numerous times in the past, Civil Service Mariners (CIVMARS) from the SIU’s Government Services Division once again have answered the call to duty. The latest iteration came in early March during Operation Tomodachi, a U.S. Navy relief effort to provide humanitarian assistance to survivors of the March 11 tsunamis that devastated northern Japan. The colossal sea waves, triggered by a 9.0 magnitude earthquake that rocked the far eastern nation earlier the same day, killed more the 12,000 people and displaced an estimated 164,000 more from their homes. Authorities declared some 15,000 individuals missing. In responding to the disaster, the Navy deployed 20 ships, 140 aircraft and 19,000 people. Ships in the mission included those in the USS Ronald Reagan Strike Group and USS Essex Amphibious Ready Group. At the center of this support, however were seven Seafarers-crewed MSC Naval Fleet Auxiliary Force ships. According to published reports, the more than 700 CIVMARS aboard the seven MSC vessels (USNS Bridge, USNS Pecos, USNS Carl Brashear, USNS Matthew Perry, USNS Richrd E. Byrd, USNS Rappahannock, and USNS Safeguard) gave unselfishly of themselves to benefit those affected by this horrible tragedy. In order to successfully complete their missions, many worked extended hours in the face of austere weather conditions such as heavy rain, hail and snow. The actual relief effort got underway March 13 when the Reagan arrived at a designated location some 190 miles north of Tokyo. Helicopters from the Reagan immediately started delivering relief supplies ashore. Pilots and air crews also conducted a number of aerial reconnaissance missions. The fast combat support ship USNS Bridge was the first MSC ship on location. Within days, the group was joined by Perry, Pecos, Rappahannock, Brashear, Byrd and Safeguard. Collectively the vessels, officers and crews did a masterful job providing relief supplies to those in need while operating in a virtual non-stop, fast-paced environment. According to MSC, the contributions made by the officers and CIVMAR crews of each vessel during the relief operations are as follows: ■ USNS Bridge – Conducted 25 underway replenishment missions (unreps) and delivered more than 1.8 million gallons of fuel. ■ USNS Pecos – Delivered 96 pallets of humanitarian assistance and disaster relief material to the Essex Amphibious Group and the Ronald Reagan Carrier Strike Group. Pecos also completed nine unreps and delivered more than 2.3 million gallons of fuel to other supporting ships. ■ USNS Carl Brashear – Delivered more than 80 pallets of humanitarian cargo to northern Japan. Brashear also and completed 17 unreps, delivering more than 1 million gallons of fuel to ships supporting the relief effort. ■ USNS Matthew Perry – Spent 21 days supporting Operation Tomodachi, completing 17 separate replenishment events and delivering more than 1.5 gallons of fuel. ■ USNS Richard E. Byrd – Completed 16 unreps and in the process delivered 210,000 gallons of fuel to Tomodachi-support ships. ■ USNS Rappahannock – Delivered 289 pallets of bottled water to Yokosuka, Japan for the relief effort. Rappahannock also completed 10 unreps delivering more than 2.4 gallons of fuel. ■ USNS Safeguard – Surveyed more than 4.5 million square yards of harbor and removed five tons of wreckage thereby clearing a channel for a commercial liquid natural gas tanker to safely dock. The tanker delivered heating fuel to the area for the first time since the earthquake. An MH-60S Sea Hawk helicopter (above) moves in to retrieve a pallet of supplies from the deck USNS Matthew Perry. Once hooked up to its payload (photo below) the aircraft prepares lift off en route to the forwarddeployed USS Essex, not pictured. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Adam M. Bennett) U.S. Maritime Unions Donate to AJSU Sailors aboard the USS Shiloh (left in photo above) receive cargo from the USNS Matthew Perry off the northeastern coast of Japan during Operation Tomodachi. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Charles Oki) 6 Seafarers LOG The SIU recently teamed up with other U.S. maritime unions in donating relief funds to the All Japan Seamen’s Union (AJSU). The joint donation was sent in early May, via a fund established by the International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF). The SIU and the AJSU are affiliated through the ITF. In a letter to AJSU President Yoji Fujisawa, SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel, writing on behalf of U.S. seagoing labor, wrote, “We realize the enormous challenges you and your countrymen face in the wake of the devastation caused by the recent earthquake and tsunami. We salute your courage in the face of those challenges. While the financial toll of the disaster is incalculable, our unions have teamed up to donate a combined $25,000 to the AJSU. We hope this donation will help in your rebuilding efforts…. More importantly, please know that you can count on us to assist whenever and wherever needed.” Heindel also chairs the ITF’s Seafarers’ Section. June 2011 �64746_LOG_X2 5/26/2011 7:07 PM Page 7 Seafarers, Dependents Share $132,000 in SHBP Scholarships Three active Seafarers and five dependents now may pursue their respective higher educational objectives thanks to grants totaling $132,000 that recently were bestowed upon them by the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan. Convening May 13 in Philadelphia, members of the SHBP scholarship committee selected Seafarers Cleveland Foy, Timothy Squires Jr., and Judith Merwin; along with dependents Randi Isenhart, Nermine Abdelwahab, Hailey Grubbs, Allison Matias and Gabrielle Camacho as recipients of the calendar year 2011 Charlie Logan Scholarships. Foy is the recipient of a $20,000 endowment while Squires and Merwin each were named to garner $6,000 to further their educational goals in two-year courses of study. Each of the dependents landed scholarships of $20,000 to pursue their aspirations at four-year colleges or universities. Following are brief biographical sketches of each of the scholarship recipients and recaps of their respective educational aspirations. Cleveland Foy AB Cleveland Foy was a member of Unlicensed Apprentice Class 686 at the SIUaffiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. After completing the school’s Phase III of the program, Foy returned to the Southern Maryland-based maritime institution on two occasions to enhance his skills. He currently works aboard the Crowley Maritime-operated tug Master. A native of Ocala, Fla., Brother Foy received his Georgia General Educational Development Diploma in 2000. He joined the SIU in 2007 after serving five years in the U.S. Navy. Brother Foy has done volunteer work monitoring troubled young men and encouraging them to continue their education and stay positive. He will pursue his bachelor’s degree in Managerial Sciences with an emphasis on supply chain management; hopefully at Florida State College of Jacksonville. He said the reason for choosing this field of study is “because it directly corresponds to my daily activities in shipping. “Working as a merchant seaman and delivering goods around the globe directly correlates with logistics,” he said. “Obtaining a bachelor’s degree in this field will allow me to excel administratively … and make me a better seaman and help me understand both sides of the industry.” Timothy Squire Jr. AB Timothy Squire Jr., hails from Norfolk, Va., and was the 1999 recipient of an advanced studies diploma from Bayside High School in Virginia Beach, Va. He joined the union in 2001 and completed the apprentice program at the Paul Hall Center. Since then, he has been going to sea aboard deep sea vessels while working in the deck department. “Ten years have passed since the day I entered the union hall on Third Street in Norfolk,” Squire said in his scholarship nomination package. “During those years, a love for computer technology has grown inside my heart…. Computers have become an international language that connects the world and I can’t wait to be a part of it.” Squire hopes to earn his degree in computer networking/science and also obtain his Microsoft Certification. “I have sailed the deep seas from the United States to Europe across the Mediterranean Sea through the Suez Canal,” he said. “I have been all over the world and bought my first house at 24 years old, but I have not been to the one place I desire the most: a college classroom.” Brother Squire hopes to attend Norfolk State University. Judith Merwin AB Judith Merwin, the third active Seafarer to land an endowment under the 2011 SHBP Scholarship Program, is a resident of Kentwood, La. The North Carolina-born mariner is a 1973 graduate of Havelock High School and attend- June 2011 ed Chalmette Community College in Chalmette, La. Sister Merwin joined the SIU in 2000 in the port of New Orleans and has upgraded her skills on several occasions. A veteran of numerous deep sea voyages, Sister Merwin is well aware of Mother Nature’s potential for wrath, especially when it comes to incidents involving water. She, like thousands upon thousands of others, witnessed firsthand the ravages (including to wildlife) left behind in the wake of the recent Deepwater Horizon disaster. According to Sister Merwin, seafood is a huge part of the Louisiana’s culture and the disaster exacted a heavy toll on many seafood varieties all along the Gulf Coast. The price of crawfish has nearly doubled since the calamity, she said. Because of the disaster, she wants to continue her education in hydroponics and aquaculture (hydroponics is a method of growing plants in water, without soil, using mineral nutrient solutions; and aquaculture is the farming of aquatic organisms such as fish, crustaceans, mollusks and aquatic plants). “I want vey much to be a leader among my brothers and sisters in the union as well as in the community,” she said. “I want our food to be pure. I want healthy food to be affordable.” Sister Merwin hopes to continue her studies at Southeastern University, the University of New Orleans, or at Louisiana State University. Randi Isenhart Randi Isenhart hails from Del Haven, N.J. She is the daughter of Inland Captain Randy Isenhart (and mother Christina, a school nurse). A 2011 graduate of Lower Cape Mary Regional High School, Isenhart posted an overall 4.85 GPA in her secondary education studies. She was a member of the National Honor Society and was active in dance and gymnastics. Randi plans to study the sciences and mathematics in college, ultimately earning her degree in biology. “Although I do not yet know what exactly I want to do with a degree in biology, I am contemplating research and pre-medical studies,” she said. “I just know that I have always been told to do what you love, and I love science, so a degree in biology is the first step to doing what I love.” Isenhart has applied to Brown University, Tufts University and the University of Rochester. Nermine Abdelwahab Nermine Abdelwahab wants to pursue a career in engineering. The daughter of AB Mohamed Abadelwahab (and mother Ekram Ahmed, a housewife), Nermine was born in Alexandria, Egypt. She is a 2011 graduate of Southwest High School in Minneapolis, Minn., where she posted a 3.94 GPA, was a member of the National Honor Society and was active in a number of other non-athletic pursuits including Amnesty International and Habitat for Humanity. In the athletic arena, Nermine participated in tennis, softball and badminton. “Engineering has always intrigued me as I view it to be the foundation that change can be built on,” she said. “Engineering will provide me the tools, innovation, and knowledge to make a change worldwide. “Through my own experiences, I believe that infrastructure, industry, and sustainability is what distinguishes a third world country like Egypt from America, and all of these factors can be obtained through an engineering background,” Nermine continued. “Overall, I hope to expand my knowledge in engineering and give back to the world in a way that can make a tangible difference.” She has applied to Northwestern University, the University of Chicago and Carleton College. Hailey Grubbs A native Floridian, Hailey Grubbs was born in Duval County and currently resides in Neptune Beach, Fla. She is the daughter of Recertified Bosun Robert Grubbs (and mother Connie, a realtor) and is a 2011 graduate of The Bolles School in Jacksonville, Fla. Hailey achieved a 4.55 GPA during her secondary education training and was a member of the National Honor Society. She served as president of both Big Brother & Big Sisters and the Leigh Meadows Service Cub at her school and was a member of the yearbook staff. An accomplished swimmer, Hailey was a four-year member of Bolles’ varsity swimming team. “I cover 50 yards in 27 seconds. I move faster than a tuna,” said Grubbs, whose parents introduced her to swimming at the age of four. She spent the past three summers serving as a lifeguard, coaching swim teams and giving swim lessons at inner-city pools to children who could not swim. “I can attest to the sense of purpose and accomplishment this hard work has provided me,” she said. “For this reason, I’ve decided to study medicine, and become a pediatric physician, surrounded by children, working to maintain their safety and health.” She looks forward to the challenges of a pre-med curriculum while attending the University of Miami, University of Florida or Florida State University. “I am ready to jump in,” she concluded. Allison Matias Allison Matias was born in California but now resides in Virginia Beach, Va. A 2011 graduate of Landstown High School, Allison is the daughter of Chief Cook Efren Matias (and mother Nellie, a registered nurse). As a high school student, she was active in a number of non-athletic activities including Model United Nations, DECA, and the Asian Pacific Islander Cultural Society. Allison also held memberships in the National Honor Society and Spanish Honor Society. She graduated from Landstown High with a 3.96 GPA. Allison and her family relocated from San Diego to Olongapo, Philippines, when she was two years old. “Enveloped in a culture so rich in personality and warmth, I grew up with an open mindset,” she said. “Residing in a developing country has led me to witness poverty and develop an absolute respect and reverence towards education. “My experience in the Philippines honed my thoughts from a young age, thus leading to my decision of becoming a doctor capable of helping those in need,” she continued. “Having seen the immense need for more capable individuals to assist the poor, I could not help but yearn to one day be a person who is able to flourish in the community.” Allison hopes to pursue a pre-med course of study at the Virginia Tech, Old Dominion University or the University of Virginia. Gabrielle Camacho Gabrielle Camacho is the daughter of AB Noel Camacho (and mother Wilhelmina, a nurse). She is a 2011 graduate of Otay Ranch High School in Chula Vista, Calif. Gabrielle participated in junior varsity track and field, was active in volunteer work in her community and achieved a 4.12 weighted GPA. She was a member of the National Honor Society as well as Key Club International. “Living in Honolulu and San Diego, I have lived a relatively sheltered life,” Gabrielle shared in her scholarship nomination package. “My family has always been very protective of me. “However, as protective as they were, they could not shield the harsh realities of the world from me forever,” she continued. “I am aware of the beautiful and wretched occurrences in my surroundings and internationally. “My empathy has allowed me to become president of a community service club that is a branch of Key Club International and it is also the basis of my decision to strive toward becoming a pharmacist and paramedic.” she concluded. “Both professions require me to travel a rigorous pathway.” Gabrielle hopes to attend the University of California. Congratulations are in order to each of the foregoing scholarship recipients. It is the hope of SHBP Plan officials and the union membership as a whole that they all prosper in their respective higher educational endeavors. Remembering Father Boileau On a more somber note, The Rev. David A. Boileau, who served as a member of the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan scholarship committee for many years, passed away Jan. 24 at Ochsner Medical Center in New Orleans. He was 80. Father Boileau over the years assisted the SIU and its educational programs in many ways and was regarded as a true friend of the union. He will be sorely missed. Condolences are extended to members of his family. Scholarship Committee Members of the calendar year 2011 SHBP Scholarship Committee in early May met in Philadelphia to choose this year’s award recipients. Comprising the committee (above, from left to right) were: Dr. Louis Fernandez, provost and vice president academic affairs, California State University, San Bernardino; Dr. Gayle Olson, University of New Orleans (retired); Dr. Trevor Carpenter, College of Southern Maryland (retired); Dr. Keith Schlender, University of Toledo; Dr. Henry Toutain, Kenyon College; and Dr. Charles Lyons Jr., American Association of Colleges and Universities (retired). Also participating on the committee, but not pictured was Dr. Henry Glaser, St. Mary’s College (retired). Seafarers LOG 7 �64746_LOG 5/25/2011 8:35 PM Page 8 U.S. Navy Names Next T-AKE for Cesar Chavez Secretary of the Navy Ray Mabus on May 18 announced that the 14th Lewis and Clark class of dry cargo/ammunition ships (abbreviated as T-AKE) will be named the USNS Cesar Chavez. “Continuing the Lewis and Clarkclass tradition of honoring legendary pioneers and explorers, the Navy’s newest underway replenishment ship honors the memory of MexicanAmerican civil rights activist Cesar Chavez,” the Defense Department said in a news release. “Chavez served in the Navy from 1944-1946 after which he became a leader in the American labor movement and a civil rights activist who co-founded the National Farm Workers Association, which later became the United Farm Workers.” Members of the SIU Government Services Division sail aboard the TAKE vessels. “Cesar Chavez inspired young Americans to do what is right and what is necessary to protect our freedoms and our country,” said Mabus. “The Cesar Chavez will sail hundreds of thousands of miles and will bring support and assistance to thousands upon thousands of people. His example will live on in this great ship.” Designated T-AKE 14, the Cesar Chavez is being built by union-contracted General Dynamics NASSCO shipyard in San Diego. Eleven of the TAKEs are slated to serve as combat logistics force (CLF) ships, and three are scheduled to be part of the maritime prepositioning force (MPF). The Cesar Chavez will serve the CLF missions, helping the Navy maintain a worldwide forward presence by delivering ammunition, food, fuel and other dry cargo to U.S. and allied ships at sea. According to the Navy, each ship in the class is 689 feet in length, has a waterline beam of 105 feet, displaces approximately 41,000 tons, and is capable of reaching a speed of 20 knots. Mayor Meets Seafarers Then-mayoral candidate Alvin Brown (second from right) chatted with Seafarers recently at the union hall in Jacksonville, Fla. In an extremely close runoff election last month that was deemed a major upset, Brown, the labor-backed candidate, won by approximately 1,500 votes (out of about 193,000 cast). He is pictured at the hall in early April with (from left) Steward/Baker Shirley Bellamy, SIU Asst. VP Archie Ware, OMU Edgar Young and SA Rosalie Long. SIU, MTD at White House Roundtable SIU Port Agent Pat Vandegrift (right) and Maritime Trades Department Executive Secretary-Treasurer Daniel Duncan (left) participated with nearly 40 other people in the White House Champions of Change Roundtable on Transportation on May 16. The session included union and non-union attendees from the maritime, air, rail, trucking and bus industries as well as infrastructure and environmental groups. Deputy Secretary of Transportation John Porcari (center) hosted the discussion, which also featured a visit by Presidential Senior Advisor Valerie Jarrett. Maritime issues were among the many topics discussed. Vandegrift (who is based in Piney Point, Md.) and others outlined how the Jones Act has been valuable to the U.S. economy for job creation for mariners, shipbuilders and other associated fields. A push to commit more resources for waterway transportation also was made. CIVMARS Help Rescue 5 Near Solomon Islands SIU Government Services Division members aboard the USNS John Ericsson participated in a rescue of five people who were lost more than 35 miles away from the nearest shore. The rescue took place May 18 near the Solomon Islands. While conducting routine operations in the Solomon Sea May 17, the Ericsson received notification from the Maritime Rescue Coordination Centers in Australia and Papua New Guinea at about 11 p.m. to be on the lookout for a missing commercial vessel. At about 8 a.m. local time the following morning, OS Tyrone Mouzon spotted a small commercial vessel with five individuals aboard waving frantically. Mouzon notified the watch officer, Third Mate Timothy Gervais, who alerted the Ericsson’s civil service master, Capt. Richard Kirk. Kirk immediately ordered the ship to sail towards the small craft to render assistance. The Ericsson carefully inched close to the boat and the ship’s crew secured lines to the small craft. Safely secured alongside, the Ericsson brought the commercial sailors on board where they received a medical examination as well as food and water. “The sailors were tired and dehydrated but they appeared to be in good condition,” said Kirk. According to Kirk, the five Solomon natives said they were transiting between the Solomons’ Nissian and Bougainville islands when they became disoriented by bad weather and heavy seas, spending two nights and three days lost more than 35 miles out to sea. “They had no food and water remaining,” said Kirk. The Ericsson’s crew also salvaged the small boat by placing a large net underneath the vessel, lifting it out of the water using the ship’s crane, and securing the boat to the side of the ship for transport. The Ericsson then made the short transit to nearby Bougainville Island where the five mariners, along with their vessel, were repatriated ashore. St. Louis Port Council Honors 4 More than 300 union members, elected officials and guests saluted four people for their work within the labor community during the 31st annual Greater St. Louis Area and Vicinity Maritime Trades Department Port Council dinner on April 30. In the photo above, Port Council VP Jack Martorelli (left) and Secretary-Treasurer Becky Sleeper (who also serves as the SIU port agent in St. Louis) present the Joe Sacco “Friend of Labor” Award to Robert Kelley, accepting on behalf of his late longtime friend Robert Kortkamp, who recently passed away. In the other photo, holding his Labor Man of the Year Award is IAM District 837 President Gordon King. Presenting the ship’s wheel (from left) are Martorelli, Port Council President Dick Mantia and MTD and SIU President Michael Sacco. The Able Helmsman Award went to Missouri State Treasurer Clint Zweifel, while George C. Roman, VP for state and local government operations at Boeing, received the Management Man of the Year Award. 8 Seafarers LOG June 2011 �64746_LOG 5/25/2011 8:36 PM Page 9 CELEBRATING 45TH ANNIVERSARY – AB Josefino Casugay (left) and SEAFARER EARNS DIPLOMA – Following the May membership meeting in Piney Point, Md., Paul Hall Center VP Don Nolan (right) applauds GUDE Alethea Earhart for earning a high school diploma through center’s state-certified program. his wife, Erlinda, recently celebrated their 45th wedding anniversary. Josefino has been an active Seafarer since 1968, while Erlinda, though retired as a full-time educator, still works part-time at a faith-based preschool. The happy couple resides in California. At Sea and Ashore with the SIU WELCOME ASHORE – At the union hall in Jacksonville, Fla., SIU Asst. VP Archie Ware (right) congratulates Capt. Charles Jones on his retirement and on a job well-done. A Seafarer since 1980, Jones sailed with Crowley. ON THE WEST COAST – SIU Asst. VP Nick Celona (right in photo above) and Patrolman Nick Marrone II (center) represented the union during the late-April meeting of the U.S. Maritime Administration’s ship managers working group, which took place in San Francisco. Topics included the numerous, consistent steps maritime labor has taken to help continue meeting the nation’s sealift readiness needs. Pictured from left to right are AMO National Asst. VP Daniel Shea, MarAd Office of Ship Operations Director William Cahill, Marrone, Ocean Shipholdings President and CEO Jim McGregor and Celona. In the other photo, taken at the union hall in Oakland, Calif., Celona administers the union oath and presents an SIU book to Bryan Wynn, who sails with Starlight Marine. ABOARD HORIZON EAGLE – Closely focusing on their work in the engine room are (photo at left above, left to right) Chief Engineer Joe Olszowy and DEU Younis Kaid. Fellow crew member QMED Samuel Garrett is shown in the other photo. THESE ‘LOSERS’ ARE WINNERS – Seafarers at Crowley/Petty’s Island started shaping up for the New Year via a “biggest loser” weight-loss contest. Beginning in early January and ending in late March, 14 participants shed a combined 258 lbs. Charles Wisler and Samuel Birth from the mechanic shop shared first-place honors by each losing 49 lbs. Seafarer Stanley Williams came up with the contest idea and presented Wisler and Birth with prizes and certificates of achievement. All participants thanked Terminal Manager Ken Orben for supporting the contest. Competitors included (front row, from left) Dennis Saggese, David Christinzio, Gabriel DeJesus, Regina Emmons, (back, from left) Samuel Birth, William Murray, Patrick Bradley, Stanley Williams, Joseph Endres, Scott Smith, Charles Wisler and Anthony Lombardo. Not pictured are Thommie Hampton and Milli Davis. BACKING PUBLIC EMPLOYEES – Seafarers in the Ft. Lauderdale, Fla., area rallied April 4 in support of teachers and other public employees. Pictured at the demonstration – which was part of organized labor’s “We Are One” platform – are (from left) Recertified Bosun Joe Caruso, AB Joseph Lane, Port Agent Kris Hopkins, AB Randy Powell, an unidentified fellow supporter and Unlicensed Apprentice Patrick Bethel. June 2011 TALKING UNION IN CHARM CITY – SIU Baltimore Port Agent Elizabeth Brown (left) catches up on the latest union news with Unlicensed Apprentices Jarvis Stanley (center) and Kyle Silva at the union hall before the latter two individuals signed on aboard the nearby Alliance Norfolk. Seafarers LOG 9 �64746_LOG 5/25/2011 8:36 PM Page 10 Debunking Myths: Editor’s Note: Elements from the “Radical Right,”—in a carefully calculated campaign to divide well-meaning individuals and promote hatred based on misinformation, distortions and outright falsehoods—are spreading a host of myths that demonize government and labor unions. Essentially, their goal is to portray progressive public officials and public sector workers as villains. In an effort to counteract these actions and the recent and ongoing attacks on union workers’ rights and provide the general public and union members with accurate information, the New York-based Joseph S. Murphy Institute for Worker Education and Labor Studies and some of its affiliated agencies published a booklet titled “In the Public Interest: Debunking the Myths about Government, Government Workers, and Unions.” The material appearing in the following article was extracted from that publication. There is no denying that America currently is struggling through some very challenging times. People are out of work, prices are soaring, public services are down, wages are stagnant and families are still losing their homes. This state of affairs is made more dismal as a result of efforts by well-organized groups of radicals who are trying to convince the American public that overpaid government workers are to blame for the nation’s current economic problems. Attacking public sector workers conveniently focuses attention on the two things the radicals hate the most: government and unions. But complaining about the evils of government and unions is not new. What is different now is that the country is in terrible economic condition and people want an explanation. In response, some politicians and media personalities are repeating myths that demonize government and unions, making progressive public officials and public sector workers into villains. These actions create serious consequences: they divide well-meaning individuals and promote hatred based on misinformation, distortions and outright falsehoods. Additionally, these myths divert public attention from the real problems being encountered in our nation including: a financial sector that has wreaked havoc on our economy; tax cuts for the wealthy that have increased our national debt at the worst possible time; vast concentrations of wealth and power alongside economic hardship and insecurity; and the ability of the “monied class” to prevent the democratic process, dominate the mass media, and shape public opinion in ways that hurt the vast majority of Americans. Following are seven myths perpetuated by radicals, information on why these myths are nothing more than folklore and alternative explanations and possible remedies. MYTH # 1 Government workers have it too good. Public sector workers have much higher salaries than other workers— plus gold-plated benefits and perks. The average worker is forced to pay taxes to support a level of compensation they themselves can only dream of. Public sector workers are lazy, rude and unproductive. And they’re on permanent vacation. REALITY ■ The radicals and the media are fond of highlighting government abuses. Some of these abuses are very real, but they also exaggerate reality and misrepresent the facts to make all government workers look like villains. 10 Seafarers LOG ■ The work of government employees—police, firefighters, teachers, train track workers—is important, often stressful, and sometimes dangerous. The salaries of public sector workers are well earned. ■ Public sector salaries are not lavish. The radicals like to compare private and public sector without considering important factors that are relevant to salaries such as age, years of experience, and level of education required for the job (government workers are twice as likely to have a college degree). When these factors are considered, according to one study, public sector workers earn 11 percent less than comparable workers in the private sector. Even when health and retirement benefits are included, public sector workers earn less than their private sector counterparts with comparable educational levels. ■ Public sector workers—like their private sector counterparts—have increased their productivity significantly over the years. But neither group has been compensated for increased productivity. If workers’ wages kept pace with productivity, they would be making a lot more money. ■ In fact, wages in the public sector, like those in the private sector, have been stagnant. Lately, public sector unions and their members have been taking a beating. Last year, 51 percent of cities across the country froze or reduced pay, while 25 percent laid off workers, 24 percent reduced health benefits, and 22 percent revised union contracts to reduce pay and benefits. ■ Public sector workers have families that depend on them for financial support. And they and their families are part of communities that thrive when people are working. ■ Laying off workers or cutting back on their compensation not only puts workers in jeopardy, it affects the economic and social wellbeing of their communities. ■ In effect, radicals want to turn good jobs into bad jobs—jobs without decent pay, benefits, security, or pensions. Antiunion efforts have already succeeded in doing this in the private sector. Over the past 30 years, many private employers have cut pay and stopped offering health care, pensions and other benefits. Now the Radical Right is turning its attention to the public sector, closing off more opportunities for people to enter and stay in the middle class. ■ Cutting back on public sector employment affects everyone, but impacts some more than others. Government jobs have been an important avenue for upward mobility for women. And while the vast majority of public sector workers are white, a disproportionate number are African American. Increasingly, public sector jobs have become a source of employment for Latinos as well. Public employment has been a path to the middle class and has brought a level of economic stability to these communities. Veterans, too, have benefited from public employment. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, 13 percent of all employed veterans work for state and local government. Cutbacks hurt these constituencies more than others. ■ Well-funded, orchestrated attacks on public sector workers encourage workers to blame each other for our problems. These attacks amount to “blaming the victim.” ■ The real and obscene differences in compensation are those between workers and corporate executives—especially when considering such perks as bonuses, stock options and golden parachutes. Compensation for the CEOs of the 500 largest companies averaged $8 million Report Separates Facts From Fiction About Public Sector Union Workers last year. ■ The real culprits are the financiers and corporate elite who got us into this mess and continue to make handsome profits. A BETTER PLAN Increasing revenues (by taxing corporations and the very wealthy), expanding public works, and creating new jobs with better wages and benefits for public and private sector workers will build stronger communities and create a firm foundation for economic growth. MYTH # 2 Government is too big. Government is one big, bloated bureaucracy with too many workers. Besides, much of what government does could be done better and more efficiently by private companies. We need to cut government services. REALITY ■ Government provides services that are essential. Public sector workers teach our children, pave our roadways, repair our bridges, collect our garbage, staff our libraries, patrol our streets and put out fires. That doesn’t mean that government always gets it right or that efficiency couldn’t improve. But the work that public employees do to keep us safe, healthy, and educated is important to our daily lives and all too often is taken for granted. ■ There is no evidence that turning government work over to private companies – contracted out –saves money. When overruns, contract monitoring, contract administration, and other direct and hidden costs are considered, contracting out can be very expensive. One estimate puts the added cost at 25 percent. ■ There are plenty examples of contracting out leading to greater inefficiencies, declines in services, corruption, and/or increases in user fees. And because of legal fees, getting out of privatization agreements can be costly as well. ■ Besides, private companies cherry pick the goods and services that can turn a profit—and leave the rest for government to handle. You won’t find, for example, companies taking on mail service to rural areas or healthcare services for the poor. Privatizing forces taxpayers to pick up the tab for expensive but necessary services the private sector doesn’t want to provide, while private companies walk off with the profits from the easy jobs. ■ Education, public safety, legal protection, and a clean environment—all are essential to a healthy democracy. It’s dan- gerous to rely on private companies to meet these needs. While public agencies are subject to close scrutiny and oversight and must meet clearly defined standards (in wages, safety, ethics), private companies are much less accountable. While the public sector’s goal is to meet the public need, the chief goal of any private company is to make the biggest profit possible. ■ The United Sates spends less on government services than almost any other developed nation in the world—less than Japan, Canada, Britain, France or Germany. ■ It’s not that government is too big; it’s that the influence of the wealthy on government is too large. ■ As the cost of running for public office increases, so does the influence of the “monied class”. It now costs on average, $1.4 million in campaign funds to win a seat in the House of Representatives and $7 million to win a seat in the U.S. Senate. ■ Running for office usually requires some very wealthy donors. But sometimes the very wealthy pick up the costs of winning an election themselves. ■ High-priced lobbyists also ensure that the interests of the wealthy are well represented in the halls of government. ■ To shine light on the connection between money and public policy, one useful website, MAPLight.org tracks the money politicians receive related to each vote they cast. In one case concerning telecommunication companies, Congressional representatives who changed their position to support the telecoms received twice as much in political contributions from the telecoms as those that did not. In another case related to regulating the financial industry, those voting against financial reform received 41 percent more in contributions from big banks than those voting for regulation. ■ One result for the “money talks” culture: Congress passed tax cuts for the wealthy in the midst of one of the worst economic crises the nation has ever seen. Another result: a huge spike in the concentration of wealth in the hands of a few and record levels of economic and social inequality. A BETTER PLAN Working people and the organizations that represent them can—and often do— check the power of money by organizing at the ballot box and in the streets. Government is contested terrain. Our goal should be to take back our government— not weaken it. (The remaining myths will be published in an upcoming edition of the LOG) June 2011 �64746_LOG 5/25/2011 8:36 PM Page 11 Union-Crewed USNS Sgt. William R. Button Supports Miitary Exercise T The USNS SGT William R. Button he AMSEA-operated USNS SGT William R. Button was one of two SIU-crewed Military Sealift Command (MSC) ships that supported operations March 1-13 during Pacific Horizon 2011 (the SS Curtiss was the other). An annual training event which is part of MSC’s Prepositioning Readiness Program, the exercise is designed to perfect the ability of U.S. Navy and U.S. Marine Corps forces to conduct atsea transfers of equipment from sealift platforms to ships and shoreside locations via surface craft. This year’s maneuvers took place off the coast of Camp Pendleton, Calif., and involved some 2,500 sailors and Marines, the two MSC vessels, and their respective SIU crews. “Having these two ships here for us to train with is an outstanding opportunity for us,’ said Sgt. Maj. Randal Carter. “These crews are professional and provide us an excellent opportunity to train and to learn in an environment that is a lot like the areas we, as Marines, operate in during our missions.” During the at-sea equipment transfer portion of the exercise, Sailors and Marines—with the assistance of the Button’s 31 crew members—moved some 200 pieces of Marine Corps field equipment from the Button— anchored some three miles off shore—to Camp Pendleton’s Red Beach area. Included were trucks, power trailers, 20-foot containers and Humvees. The gear was returned to the ship during the final phases of the exercise. In preparation for the start of equipment discharge, Button crew members, following their March 2 arrival off the Camp Pendleton coast, participated in a pre-operations and safety brief, and a safety drill. “These kinds of training exercises are always valuable to us,” said Capt. David Eddy, Button master. “They help us iron out wrinkles, to learn how to move around on the decks with different kinds of cargo and to best figure out where things should go to make the mission move forward smoothly.” MSC operates approximately 110 non-combatant, civilian-crewed ships that replenish U.S. Navy ships, conduct specialized missions, strategically preposition combat cargo at sea around the world and move military cargo and supplies used by deployed U.S. forces and coalition partners. Bosun Gregory Jackson and AB John Gonsalves The helicopter above conducted operations aboard the SS Curtiss during while military equipment (below) was being off-loaded from the USNS SGt. William R. Button. Both maneuvers took place during Pacific Horizon 2011. The Button’s deck department during the exercise was comprised of (photo above): AB Jerry Stillman, AB ATM Reza, AB Travis Long, AB Jose Sanchez, AB John Gonsalves, AB Elhassan Hussein and Bosun Gregory Jackson. Members of the USNS SGT William R. Button’s engine department are shown above. Among those pictured are QPMP Charles Ellsworth, QEE Efren Villarosa, GUDE Joseph Quitugua, QMED Mohamed Sylla and Storekeeper Bayani Alcantara. Four members of the riding crew are also shown. The steward department (photo at right) consisted of SA Antonio Montero, SA Timoteo Nunez, SA Ardeccia Hill, Chief Baker Calvin Williams, Steward Edwin Bonefont, SA Kipp Worthy and Chief Cook Ellis Edwards. June 2011 Seafarers LOG 11 �64746_LOG 5/25/2011 8:36 PM Page 12 Clockwise beginning above, SIU President Michael Sacco (left) takes in the Maritime Day activities during the U.S. Maritime Administration’s (MarAd) event at the U.S. Department of Transportation. To Sacco’s left are other current and former SIU officials including Terry Turner, former SIU Legislative Director; VP Contracts George Tricker; and Asst. VP Ambrose Cucinotta. Sen. Frank Lautenberg (D-N.J.) delivers the keynote address during the MarAd event, while Rear Adm. Mark Buzby, commander, Military Sealift Command; Maritime Administrator David Matsuda and Gen. Duncan McNabb, commander, U.S. Transportation Command (right) joined Kelleher is displaying the six posthumous awards he received from MarAd in m Oliver Kelleher, who died at sea during World War II. Unlicensed Apprentice Priscil Admiral Buzby and General McNabb, along with Unlicensed Apprentices Leo Ono hand salutes during a portion of the wreath laying ceremony at the Washington N Ceremonies Honor U.S. Merchant Marine’s Valiant U.S. Merchant Mariners past and present were saluted May 19 during the traditional National Maritime Day ceremonies in Washington, D.C. The U.S. Maritime Administration (MarAd), U.S. Military Sealift Command (MSC) and the Propeller Club each hosted an event honoring the service and sacrifice of America’s civilian seafarers. The SIU as usual made a strong showing. Dozens of unlicensed apprentices from the union-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education attended the ceremonies, including three (Priscilla Greene, Jason Allen and Leo Onofrio) who played important roles in the MarAd and MSC events, respectively. SIU headquarters officials President Michael Sacco, Executive Vice President Augie Tellez, Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel, Vice President Contracts George Tricker and Assistant Vice President Ambrose Cucinotta represented the union throughout the day. Gen. Duncan McNabb, commander, U.S. Transportation Command, was the featured speaker both at MSC’s ceremony and at the Propeller Club luncheon. U.S. Senator Frank Lautenberg (D-N.J.) gave the keynote address at MarAd’s event, which also included a video message from Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood and remarks by Maritime Administrator David Matsuda. MarAd kicked off the day at Transportation Department headquarters as Matsuda honored the memory of Richard Oliver Kelleher. He presented six posthumous awards to the family of Kelleher, whose death at sea during World War II symbolized the sacrifices of all U.S. Merchant Mariners. Accepting the awards was Kelleher’s brother, Herb Kelleher, founder of Southwest Airlines. Richard Kelleher, a fireman-watertender, was just 19 years old when he died while serving onboard the tanker SS Patrick J. Hurley. The vessel was torpedoed on Sept. 12, 1942 by a German U-boat. “Richard’s desire to serve at a time when our country needed him most is an inspiration to us all,” said Matsuda. “His story is an example of the courage and commitment to serve that still exists in the men and women who go to sea today.” LaHood pointed out America always has relied on its merchant mariners. He said that in 12 Seafarers LOG addition to contributing billions of dollars to the nation’s economy, “In times of emergency, our civilian mariners sail into dangerous waters to fortify our nation’s defense. Over the past three years alone, the U.S. Merchant Marine has delivered more than 300,000 pieces of war material to the battlefields in the Middle East.” Lautenberg said he still has a personal appreciation for civilian mariners. He was in the armed forces during World War II, when he spent time aboard U.S. merchant ships. “I witnessed firsthand the difference the merchant marine makes,” he said, adding that maritime remains “a vital American industry. I have tremendous respect for our country’s mariners. The work that you do is vital. You are civilians who are patriots, and we wouldn’t be where we are today without the heroic contributions of mariners. I thank each and every one of you for always answering the call of duty. I salute the courage and service of those who fought on merchant ships and who contribute so much to our security and economy.” At the luncheon, General McNabb thanked the industry as a whole for its collective efforts to support our armed forces. “This nation is very well-served by what you all do,” he said. He cited the large numbers of U.S. Merchant Marine casualties in World War II (including more than 1,200 SIU members who gave their lives) and then recalled being at the Pentagon on 9/11. Throughout the decades in between and right up to the present, “This really is a battle about good over evil,” he stated, emphasizing that a strong merchant fleet is one key to winning. “I think about our mariners going out and putting everything on the line to protect our freedom. It is so noble what they’ve done,” the general declared. Among the keys to maintaining a capable American-flag fleet are cargo preference laws, the U.S. Maritime Security Program (MSP) and the Jones Act, which applies to domestic shipping. General McNabb said, “I obviously think cargo preference, MSP, the Jones Act – all of those things are absolutely essential for having a very strong merchant marine.” Later, during the MSC ceremony – hosted by MSC Commander Rear Admiral Mark Buzby at the Washington Navy Yard – General McNabb said, “The merchant marine has always been the linchpin of our U.S. commercial sealift capability and has come to America’s aid at the most crucial times in history, projecting power wherever and whenever needed. It is an understatement to say we count on you. We absolutely depend on you.” At the heart of the formal military ceremony was the presentation of three commemorative wreaths in solemn remembrance of mariners lost at sea. During presentation of the wreaths, the guests stood and service members, including McNabb and Buzby, saluted as the Navy Ceremonial Guard firing party fired three volleys of seven, and the Navy Brass Quintet played “Taps.” Following the ceremony, the wreaths were placed in front of the merchant marine bronze relief sculpture at the Navy Memorial in downtown Washington. “We depend on [ meet the mission re transportation syste “We at MSC are pr so it is fitting that t edge the great debt dedicated men and Marine.” National Maritim the contributions of Marine, civilian me defended the freedo 1775, and who coll largest sealift opera known during Worl acknowledges the m tions to the nation’s rity. June 2011 �64746_LOG 5/25/2011 8:36 PM Page 13 President Obama Issues Maritime Day Proclamation mand (right) joined Herb Kelleher for a posed photo. d from MarAd in memory of his late brother, Richard d Apprentice Priscilla Greene sounds eight bells while pprentices Leo Onofrio and Jason Allen (right) render t the Washington Navy Yard. liant History “We depend on [our mariners] every day to et the mission requirements of the best ocean nsportation system in the world,” said Buzby. We at MSC are proud of our civilian mariners, it is fitting that today is set aside to acknowlge the great debt of gratitude we owe to the dicated men and women of the U.S. Merchant arine.” National Maritime Day is May 22 and honors contributions of the American Merchant arine, civilian men and women who have fended the freedom of the United States since 75, and who collectively carried out the gest sealift operation the world has ever own during World War II. The day also knowledges the maritime industry’s contribuns to the nation’s economic and national secuy. June 2011 In times of peace or war, the civilians serving in the United States Merchant Marine have helped keep our Nation safe and prosperous. We depend on these men and women serving on our ships and tugs, in our ports and shipyards, close to home or far at sea, to connect businesses, service members, and citizens President Barack Obama around the world. On National Maritime Day, we honor their invaluable contributions to America’s economic strength and security. On May 22, 1819, the SS Savannah completed the first successful voyage by a steam powered ship across the Atlantic, shepherding in a new age of maritime travel and transport. By the 20th century, the United States maritime trade was booming, fostering exchanges across the world and aiding our military at war. During World War II, Merchant Marines were critical in providing necessary supplies and services to troops abroad, while suffering an extraordinarily high death rate. Hundreds of merchant ships fell to enemy action, and nearly one in thirty mariners did not return home. United States flag vessels and those who operate them continue to be an integral part of our military operations overseas. They support operations in Iraq and Afghanistan, as well as humanitarian aid missions and disaster relief efforts. Without the steadfast commitment of our mariners, our Nation would not be as prepared to deal with unforeseen events, conflicts, or crises. Their bravery and valor make our waterways safer and more efficient every day. Today, our maritime industry is a valuable source of skilled employment for American workers, contributing billions of dollars to our economy. It is also a critical part of our transportation system. Last year, my Administration implemented “America’s Marine Highway Program,” an effort that enables American businesses to participate in improving the safety and environmental sustainability of our waterways. Our mariners’ continued work is helping American industry remain competitive in the global economy, pushing us toward a more prosperous and free 21st century. The Congress, by a joint resolution approved May 20, 1933, has designated May 22 of each year as “National Maritime Day,” and has authorized and requested the President to issue annually a proclamation calling for its appropriate observance. NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of America, do hereby proclaim May 22, 2011, as National Maritime Day. I call upon the people of the United States to mark this observance and to display the flag of the United States at their homes and in their communities. I also request that all ships sailing under the American flag dress ship on that day. IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this eighteenth day of May, in the year of our Lord two thousand eleven, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-fifth. Seafarers LOG 13 �64746_LOG 5/25/2011 8:37 PM Page 14 The Ed Woods Story – A Teenager In World War II Editor’s note: This is the seventh installment in a series written by Edward T. Woods, a U.S. Merchant Marine veteran of World War II who sailed in the engine and steward departments. Previous entries were published off and on beginning with the September 2010 edition of the LOG. The remaining chapter will follow in an upcoming issue. Now 83 years old, Woods was 16 when he shipped out aboard the S/S Horseshoe in 1944. The most recent installment of his story (published in the May edition) ended in 1946, after Woods had returned to New York following a voyage to Italy and then shipped out again, to Germany. I first went to Germany as a merchant seaman in June 1946, about a year after it had surrendered to the Allied Forces. Hostilities in Europe had ended in May 1945. World War II, however, was not scheduled to officially end until the last day of the year, December 31, 1946. The fighting may have been over but it was still not a pleasant time to be in Germany. The country was under Martial Law, and the citizens and occupying personnel were subject to many restrictions imposed by the military government. For one, there was no fraternizing. A heavy fine was levied on anyone found socializing with the former enemy. In addition to this, the people were living just a little above the starvation level. For the latter reason, a “black market” existed. The Germans wanted food and cigarettes, and they were willing to part with their family heirlooms and other prized possessions to obtain these scarce items. When I say black market, I don’t mean any big money-making scheme. The Americans wanted souvenirs and the Germans wanted food and cigarettes. It was simply a matter of trading. No money changed hands. When we withdrew money from our account aboard ship, it was given to us in American Occupation Scrip, German Marks. We used it in the seamen’s club and in the Army PX. Every so often, the American military occupation government would have the scrip reissued in a different design and declare the previous issue null and void. I could only exchange my old scrip for the new scrip up to the amount I had withdrawn from my ship’s payroll account. This system was used to curtail black marketing; however, it was said that the Russians had stolen the plates for printing the money and were flooding the country with the unlawful currency. I was working on an U.S. Army Transport, the General W.P. Richardson. We carried troops back and forth between New York City and Bremerhaven. I don’t recall staying more than a week in either port. I had no food to barter, but I did have cigarettes. Trading with cigarettes was also against the military laws of occupation. However, the law was seldom, if ever, enforced inside the fenced-in port area. Access to the road leading into the city of Bremerhaven was limited to two gates, one for the occupying forces and the other for the Germans workers. When passing through the gates everyone was physically searched for contraband. We were only allowed to take two packs of cigarettes ashore with us each day. Anything more was immediately confiscated by the military guards on duty. We soon discovered we could do more and better trading inside the fenced-in sector. The German workers seemed to be able to carry anything they wanted in and out of the gated port area. Bremerhaven was and still is an important European seaport. Inside the enclosed sector were huge cranes for moving and lifting machinery, some of the biggest dry docks in Europe, miles of docking space, extensive repair shops, and close by to all of this were submarine pens. German U-boats were there and I wanted to see them. I had sailed on oil tankers for over a year during the war and the very thought of these undersea monsters had 14 Seafarers LOG obviously fake, it was turned down. The ever-ingenious Germans, however, would explain that although the goods do not appear to be genuine, they were made during the height of the war when materials were in short supply and nothing was wasted. My buddy and I had been in the Pacific Ocean area during the war and both of us could recall the large number of Japanese flags offered for sale or trade by United States Navy Seabees. Some friendly Seabees admitted to us they had made the flags right there in their camp and were able to do a good business with Army Air Corps personnel that passed by. One flag could be worth a whole bottle of good scotch whiskey or a “whole bunch of American money.” They showed us how they added a look of authenticity to their product by burning holes in it and rubbing it in the dirt. They would then tell the potential buyer the flag had been taken from a nearby Japanese fort following a fierce and bloody battle. When I returned to the U-boat with the carton of cigarettes, I gave the flag a good going over and decided it was genuine. I now owned a souvenir swastika flag from the German Nazi era. For a very good reason, I will always recall the day I bought the flag. On the way back to our ship, after making often kept me awake at night. Memories of attempting to sleep in my bunk while crossing the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans were still with me. I would never forget being awakened by the noise of the horns and whistles of our naval escorts as they chased after an echo or a sighting picked up with their sophisticated locating devices. You don’t get much sleep when you are aboard an oil tanker full of high-octane aviation gasoline and there’s a possibility of a German U-boat or a Jap sub in the area getting ready to send you and your ship down to Davy Jones’ Locker. Signs in both German and English were at the entrance to the submarine pens warning all unauthorized personnel to keep out. There is something very ominous about the German word “Verboten.” It seems to mean so much more in German than it does in English. However, whether I could read German or not, it was quite clear the area was off limits and sightseers not welcome. I was 18 years old; I had sailed through submarineand mine-infested waters during the war. I was not about to let a few signs stop me from getting a closer look at my former adversary. I was with a friend, a shipmate, who was as anxious as I was to see the forbidden area. There was no sign of any guards, only a few German workers in the area who didn’t seem to take any notice of us. I had seen pictures of German U-boats but I had never seen one up close. There were about five or six of them tied together in a row alongside a pier. My first thoughts as I looked at them were of their size. They seemed small and not seaworthy. I found it hard to believe that these cigarshaped pieces of metal were the underwater weapons of war that caused so much havoc and death in what Winston Churchill called, “The Battle of the Atlantic.” A German sailor, who appeared to be in charge of the U-boats, greeted us. Following an exchange of words and an offer of a cigarette, he agreed to give us a tour of a boat. Later, as we were climbing out of the hatch, he asked if I was interested in any souvenirs. He then brought out a German Nazi swastika flag. I made every attempt to conceal my excitement in a desperate The 18-year-old Woods spends time in Bremerhaven, desire to keep the expected 1946. high price down. I wanted this Nazi flag. He wanted two cartons of cigarettes. An unheard of sum! A carton of cigarettes in town and the trade, we had to pass within a few hunout of the port area would buy the whole sub- dred feet of the gate used by the German port marine. workers. It was manned by a combination of I was not to be deterred. I convinced him German police officers and United States to agree to one carton of cigarettes that I didNavy personnel. One of the Navy enlisted n’t have with me. The German sailor, howevmen at the gate called out to us. We didn’t er, promised to hold this hated but muchknow what he was saying and decided to desired symbol of the Third Reich until my ignore him. We were out of the restricted area return that afternoon with the cigarettes. and felt free to walk about without interferFortunately, my ship and the U-boat pens ence from the guards. I also did not want to were inside the fenced-in port area. get involved with any of the military since I Therefore, I could expect to go back and was carrying a Nazi flag under my jacket. forth between the two sites without any inter- The two of us felt completely within our ference. On the walk back to our ship, my rights to continue walking. buddy cautioned me to be aware of bogus However, we stopped walking and turned souvenirs. We had heard that once the around very quickly when we heard two Germans learned they could trade wartime shots fired and realized they had been aimed souvenirs with the Americans for food and in our direction. We saw it was a Navy enlistcigarettes they began to manufacture flags, ed man who had fired the shots and who was medals and parts of uniforms from any matenow ordering us to come closer to his checkrial they could find. A lot of the stuff was so point. As we began to walk toward him a number of other Navy enlisted men rushed out of the guardhouse and shouted at the man who had fired his gun. They called him all sort of foul names including stupid and asked if we wanted to have them all court-martialed. They told him we were obviously Americans and his actions were completely unwarranted. For once in my young life, I was speechless. I had just been fired at and I was carrying a Nazi flag. I was in no position to argue with anybody. One of the enlisted men, a petty officer, apologized to us for the unnecessary gunshots, and asked if we would please forget the entire incident. We readily agreed and, still quite shaken, continued on our walk. As we left the gate, we heard the petty officer tell the guard that he was relieved of duty and to report to him inside the guardhouse. Fortunately, it was the last time a bullet was fired in my direction. There was gambling aboard the troop ships 24 hours a day. Mostly dice games. Non-military passengers and the ship’s crew were not allowed to gamble with the soldiers. It was considered a serious offense and violators would be arrested by the military police. The rule was for the protection of the soldiers, as it was known that following the end of hostilities, professional gamblers were finding berths aboard troop ships for the sole purpose of taking advantage of the amateur military gamblers. A case in point, we had a well-dressed and well-spoken man come aboard in New York as a replacement wiper, a wiper being the lowest position in the engine room. How he had obtained seaman’s papers and the wiper endorsement from the U.S. Coast Guard was baffling to us, the engine crew. He was obviously not a seaman and, as soon as he was assigned to a berth, he let it be known that he would pay $20 a watch (that’s $40 a day) to anyone who would stand in for him. He had all the volunteers he needed, as our base pay in 1946 was about $100 a month. He told us that he liked to play cards and was looking for a little action. We saw him but a few times after this first meeting until we reached Bremerhaven and watched him being escorted off the ship in handcuffs by the military police. I was pleased to learn the Army had undercover professional gamblers to catch these crooks. When I returned to New York, I had an offer of a better position and I immediately transferred to the U. S. Army Transport Edmund B. Alexander on August 14, 1946. The Alexander had been built in 1905 in Belfast, Ireland, for the German Hamburg-Amerika line and was originally named the Amerika. It was the biggest and most luxurious ship in the world in 1906. It had the largest set of reciprocating engines still in use in 1946: twin quadruple expansion engines. It had been Germany, in confiscated by the United States in World War I, renamed the S/S America and later the U.S. Army Transport E.B. Alexander. On this, my second visit to Bremerhaven, in September 1946, the Alexander was involved in an explosion that caused heavy damage in the engine room. First, we believed it to be the result of a mine and then, based on the location of the damage, it was decided the explosion was due to an internal explosive device. Our government would not accept this decision, so the incident was officially declared to have been the result of an exterior mine that had broken free from its moorings before being disarmed. It was discovered that our ship’s degaussing system was not working at the time of the explosion. Our engineers said that the entire system had been inspected and determined to be in good order prior to our departure from New York. My engine roommates were convinced, more than ever, that See Merchant Mariner, Page 20 June 2011 �64746_LOG 5/25/2011 8:37 PM Page 15 Dispatchers’ Report for Deep Sea Mayor Discusses Maritime Issues April 16, 2011 - May 15, 2011 During a May meeting of the Harris County (Texas) AFLCIO, Houston Mayor Annise Parker (left) took part in discussions concerning the port of Houston. At right is SIU VP Gulf Coast Dean Corgey, a member of the Harris County AFL-CIO executive board. Personal Bob Bloom please contact Beverly Bourqueat at (409) 724-7268 or (409) 293-0218. July & August 2011 Membership Meetings Piney Point............................Tuesday: *July 5, Monday: August 8 Algonac ...................................................Friday: July 8, August 12 Baltimore.............................................Thursday: July 7, August 11 Guam................................................Thursday: July 21, August 25 Honolulu ...............................................Friday: July 15, August 19 Houston................................................Monday: July 11, August 15 Jacksonville.........................................Thursday: July 7, August 11 Joliet.................................................Thursday: July 14, August 18 Mobile............................................Wednesday: July 13, August 17 New Orleans.............................................Tuesday: July 12, August 16 New York................................................Tuesday: July 5, August 9 Norfolk................................................Thursday: July 7, August 11 Oakland ............................................Thursday: July 14, August 18 Philadelphia.....................................Wednesday: July 6, August 10 Port Everglades ................................Thursday: July 14, August 18 San Juan..............................................Thursday: July 7, August 11 St. Louis ................................................Friday: July 15, August 19 Tacoma..................................................Friday: July 22, August 26 Wilmington..............................................Monday: July 18, August 22 * Piney Point change created by Independence Day holiday Each port’s meeting starts at 10:30 a.m. ATTENTION: SEAFARERS Help The Seafarers Political Action Donation (SPAD) Help You . . . 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June 2011 Port Total Registered All Groups A B C Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Seattle St. Louis Wilmington TOTAL 13 1 1 11 2 8 43 21 3 9 11 37 18 19 8 5 7 19 2 31 269 7 3 5 13 2 6 27 28 2 8 4 15 20 9 8 6 3 13 2 22 203 4 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 0 1 3 6 0 1 3 1 7 0 3 31 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Seattle St. Louis Wilmington TOTAL 6 0 3 11 0 8 13 19 3 5 3 13 10 7 1 4 3 11 1 11 132 3 3 1 2 1 6 7 15 4 2 0 9 11 8 5 1 2 6 1 10 97 3 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 1 1 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 9 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Seattle St. Louis Wilmington TOTAL 2 0 1 4 3 7 15 14 0 2 4 19 9 16 0 0 2 24 0 17 139 1 1 1 4 0 2 6 4 0 1 1 3 7 2 2 1 2 4 1 1 44 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Seattle St. Louis Wilmington TOTAL 1 0 1 0 0 3 5 0 0 1 0 5 0 1 0 0 0 10 0 6 33 8 1 1 5 2 9 6 19 0 2 2 25 10 12 5 2 0 7 1 14 131 All Departments: 573 475 Total Shipped All Groups A B C Trip Reliefs 2 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 1 1 2 0 3 0 4 16 0 0 1 8 0 2 15 11 0 3 8 16 5 15 1 1 2 14 0 13 115 10 2 4 23 8 12 87 54 4 22 22 75 33 46 6 6 11 60 4 62 551 10 5 12 21 10 10 50 53 3 14 15 33 40 27 12 5 19 35 4 53 431 2 1 0 3 0 1 3 4 2 0 2 5 12 2 0 4 2 11 0 13 67 2 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 3 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 7 0 0 0 5 0 4 1 11 0 2 1 7 5 8 1 1 2 3 2 5 58 5 0 7 13 2 8 26 37 2 15 8 26 17 18 4 3 5 20 1 27 244 5 3 11 9 2 8 27 38 3 6 7 23 30 14 5 3 12 23 3 24 256 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 2 5 2 1 0 0 0 0 1 2 16 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 2 0 0 0 3 0 0 3 8 0 0 2 7 4 5 0 2 1 7 0 7 49 3 0 6 13 3 12 31 35 1 7 8 40 22 39 1 2 4 40 1 53 321 2 1 2 5 2 6 12 8 1 3 3 5 18 6 1 1 2 8 3 4 93 0 0 0 2 1 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 1 0 0 1 0 1 9 2 0 1 1 0 1 1 2 0 0 1 2 6 5 2 24 0 2 0 2 52 1 0 0 1 0 0 4 1 0 0 1 3 1 1 2 1 0 3 0 4 23 2 0 1 0 0 5 9 4 0 0 1 16 0 4 0 0 1 16 0 15 74 12 3 3 13 2 12 29 38 2 7 5 74 36 20 0 4 1 24 2 40 327 23 1 2 9 1 4 8 22 4 6 11 12 37 12 4 7 0 11 1 21 196 Deck Department 14 3 0 2 5 3 11 6 2 2 6 3 32 9 22 8 5 5 7 3 9 1 24 16 7 19 23 5 9 1 0 2 5 3 26 7 1 2 19 10 227 110 Engine Department 3 1 1 0 3 3 9 2 1 0 7 4 7 1 11 15 1 3 4 2 3 0 7 9 7 16 6 11 1 3 1 1 1 2 9 4 2 1 2 7 86 85 Steward Department 1 0 1 0 0 0 0 1 1 1 2 3 0 0 3 0 6 1 0 15 4 0 7 4 0 0 2 0 1 1 1 2 1 0 14 2 0 8 6 0 14 3 1 2 1 0 1 2 0 4 1 1 11 4 0 0 0 1 13 1 6 101 41 Entry Department 16 1 2 2 0 0 1 1 1 5 0 4 1 0 1 1 2 4 3 1 7 4 0 8 2 0 1 2 1 2 5 1 3 5 2 22 14 0 7 6 0 8 6 0 5 22 0 2 0 1 0 8 1 5 1 0 1 10 4 7 114 15 90 160 429 326 77 245 Registered on Beach All Groups A B C 1,190 1,107 Seafarers LOG 288 15 �64746_LOG 5/25/2011 8:37 PM Page 16 Inquiring Seafarer Seafarers International Union Directory Michael Sacco, President Augustin Tellez, Executive Vice President David Heindel, Secretary-Treasurer George Tricker, Vice President Contracts Tom Orzechowski, Vice President Lakes and Inland Waters Dean Corgey, Vice President Gulf Coast Nicholas J. Marrone, Vice President West Coast Joseph T. Soresi, Vice President Atlantic Coast Kermett Mangram, Vice President Government Services HEADQUARTERS 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746 (301) 899-0675 ALGONAC 520 St. Clair River Dr., Algonac, MI 48001 (810) 794-4988 ANCHORAGE 721 Sesame St., #1C, Anchorage, AK 99503 (907) 561-4988 BALTIMORE 2315 Essex St., Baltimore, MD 21224 (410) 327-4900 GUAM P.O. Box 3328, Hagatna, Guam 96932 Cliffline Office Ctr. Bldg., Suite 103B 422 West O’Brien Dr., Hagatna, Guam 96910 (671) 477-1350 HONOLULU 606 Kalihi St., Honolulu, HI 96819 (808) 845-5222 HOUSTON 1221 Pierce St., Houston, TX 77002 (713) 659-5152 JACKSONVILLE 5100 Belfort Rd., Jacksonville, FL 32256 (904) 281-2622 JOLIET 10 East Clinton St., Joliet, IL 60432 (815) 723-8002 MOBILE 1640 Dauphin Island Pkwy, Mobile, AL 36605 (251) 478-0916 Editor’s note: This month’s question was answered by recertified stewards in Piney Point, Md. Question: For those unfamiliar with it, what would you like the general public to know about the U.S. Merchant Marine? Osvaldo Ramos Recertified Steward This is a place where a child can grow to become a man. The maritime industry is one in which an individual can enjoy a good career while gaining knowledge that comes with traveling and working on ships around the world. Samuel Harris Recertified Steward For me, if had to have a face-to-face talk with someone, I would let them know how being a U.S. Merchant Mariner changed my life for the better. I would explain how it could do the same thing for them. Ahmed Sharif Recertified Steward I have been a U.S. Merchant Mariner and SIU member since 1982. We are the fourth arm of defense for this country and in the SIU, we have a school (the Paul Hall Center) where we can upgrade. I started as an SA, then chief cook and cook/baker. Now I have received my steward recertification, and I would tell people it proves that we have a strong union for anyone who wants to learn, work and serve this country. Pic-From-The-Past Roslyn Johnson Recertified Steward I would tell them the Seafarers International Union helps to create, motivate and train very dedicated merchant mariners. Being part of the merchant marine means having the opportunity to be employed aboard the best ships in the American-flag commercial fleet. John Huyett Recertified Steward The two most common questions I get asked are if I’m in the military and if I work on a cruise ship. I always answer: We are civilians, although military cargo is handled. If it is carried on the water, be it oil, cars, containers, grain or people, we are the people that make it happen. Kenneth McHellen Recertified Steward I have been sailing as second cook starting in 1988, then went to chief cook in 1989 and in 1995 started sailing steward and cook. So, I would stress the importance of upgrading so that you aren’t limited in what you can do throughout the industry. As a person who started out as a C-card and now a recertified steward, I say go to school and upgrade, because it works. NEW ORLEANS 3911 Lapalco Blvd., Harvey, LA 70058 (504) 328-7545 NEW YORK 635 Fourth Ave., Brooklyn, NY 11232 (718) 499-6600 Government Services Division: (718) 499-6600 NORFOLK 115 Third St., Norfolk, VA 23510 (757) 622-1892 OAKLAND 1121 7th St., Oakland, CA 94607 (510) 444-2360 PHILADELPHIA 2604 S. 4 St., Philadelphia, PA 19148 (215) 336-3818 PINEY POINT P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674 (301) 994-0010 PORT EVERGLADES 1221 S. Andrews Ave., Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33316 (954) 522-7984 SANTURCE 1057 Fernandez Juncos Ave., Stop 16 Santurce, PR 00907 (787) 721-4033 ST. LOUIS/ALTON 4581 Gravois Ave., St. Louis, MO 63116 (314) 752-6500 TACOMA 3411 South Union Ave., Tacoma, WA 98409 (253) 272-7774 WILMINGTON 510 N. Broad Ave., Wilmington, CA 90744 (310) 549-4000 The new tanker SS Zapata Rover crewed up in San Pedro, Calif., in November 1976. The 711-foot, 35,000-dwt vessel joined sister ships Zapata Ranger and Zapata Patriot. (A fourth ship, the Zapata Courier, later was added to the fleet.) In this LOG file photo, AB Louie Alleluia (left) and Recertified Bosun Sal Sbriglio scan the automated bridge controls aboard the Zapata Rover. If anyone has a vintage union-related photograph he or she would like to share with other Seafarers LOG readers, please send it to the Seafarers LOG, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. Photographs will be returned, if so requested. High-resolution digital images may be sent to webmaster@seafarers.org 16 Seafarers LOG June 2011 �64746_LOG 5/25/2011 9:31 PM Page 17 Welcome Ashore Each month, the Seafarers LOG pays tribute to the SIU members who have devoted their working lives to sailing aboard U.S.-flag vessels on the deep seas, inland waterways or Great Lakes. Listed below are brief biographical sketches of those members who recently retired from the union. The brothers and sisters of the SIU thank those members for a job well done and wish them happiness and good health in the days ahead. DEEP SEA FRANK BAKUN Brother Frank Bakun, 65, became a Seafarer in 1969 while in the port of Houston. His first ship was the Steel Architect; his last, the Horizon Producer. Brother Bakun was born in New York and worked in the engine department. He upgraded on three occasions at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. Brother Bakun lives in Jacksonville, Fla. BENJAMIN BESS Brother Benjamin Bess, 60, began sailing with the SIU in 1979. He sailed in the deck department. Brother Bess’ earliest trip was on the Overseas Valdez. He attended classes on numerous occasions at the Piney Point school. Brother Bess most recently shipped aboard the Horizon Trader. He is a resident of his native state, Florida. ROBERT DIAZ Brother Robert Diaz, 65, joined the SIU ranks in 1969. He was initially employed aboard the Sagamore Hill. Brother Diaz was an engine department member. His final trip was on the Eugene A. Obregon. Brother Diaz upgraded in 1976 and 1982 at the maritime training center in Piney Point, Md. He now calls Brandon, Fla., home. HAZAA GAHTAN Brother Hazaa Gahtan, 65, signed on with the Seafarers in 1990 while in the port of New York. He originally worked aboard the Liberty Wave. In 2002, Brother Gahtan took advantage of educational opportunities at the SIU-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. His final voyage was on the Sgt. William R. Button. Brother Gahtan sailed in all three shipboard departments. He was born in Yemen and now makes his home in Brooklyn, N.Y. THOMAS GRUBER Brother Thomas Gruber, 59, started shipping with the union in 1977. He initially sailed aboard the Mt. Vernon Victory. Brother Gruber shipped in the deck department. He enhanced his skills on two occasions at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Gruber’s last trip was on the Horizon June 2011 Producer. He resides in Satsuma, Fla. ALTHALO HENTON Brother Althalo Henton, 63, joined the NMU in 1989. He was born in Houston. In 2000 and 2003, Brother Henton took advantage of educational opportunities available at the SIU-affiliated school in Maryland. A member of the deck department, Brother Henton most recently worked aboard the Charleston Express. He continues to make his home in his native state. GEORGE MOXLEY Brother George Moxley, 66, donned the SIU colors in 1991. His earliest trip was on the Sealift Arctic. Brother Moxley upgraded often at the Seafarersaffiliated school. His most recent trip was aboard the Liberty Star. Brother Moxley, who sailed in the deck department, lives in Koloa, Hawaii. PEDRO OCAMPO Brother Pedro Ocampo, 65, began sailing with the Seafarers in 1999. His first trip to sea was aboard the Patriot. Brother Ocampo worked in the engine department. He attended classes frequently at the Piney Point school. Brother Ocampo’s final voyage was on the Horizon Producer. He is a resident of Miami, Fla. GREGORY STAPLES Brother Gregory Staples, 55, started his SIU career in 2001 as the NMU was merging into the SIU. The deck department member was born in Weymouth, Mass. Brother Staples’ most recent trip to sea was aboard the Energy Enterprise. He calls Barrington, N.H., home. JAMES TODD Brother James Todd, 65, became an SIU member in 1967. His earliest trip was on the Del Aires. In 1967 and 1979, Brother Todd upgraded his skills at the Paul Hall Center. He last sailed aboard the USNS Regulus. Brother Todd was a member of the deck department. He settled in Slidell, La. INLAND CHARLES BOOHER Brother Charles Booher, 68, signed on with the union in 1989. He initially worked on a Moran Towing of Maryland vessel. On numerous occasions, Brother Booher took advantage of educational opportunities at the SIU-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. The deck department member’s final trip was with Crowley Towing & Transportation of Jacksonville. Brother Booher makes his home in St. Augustine, Fla. MIGUEL PIZARRO Brother Miguel Pizarro, 62, joined the SIU in 1994 while in the port of New York. He was primarily employed with Port Imperial Ferry during his seafaring career. Brother Pizarro resides in Allentown, Pa. STEVEN TALUCCI Brother Steven Talucci, 62, began sailing with the union in 1990. He originally shipped with Sheridan Transportation Company. He worked as a member of both the deck and steward departments. Brother Talucci upgraded in 2001 at the Piney Point school. Prior to his retirement, he sailed on the Dodge Island. Brother Talucci lives in Florida. MARK PATERSON Brother Mark Paterson, 55, was born in San Antonio, Texas. He donned the SIU colors in 1975. Brother Paterson shipped in both the deep sea and inland divisions. His first ship was the Carolina; his last, the Padre Island. In 1978 and 2001, Brother Paterson attended classes at the maritime training center in Piney Point, Md. He is a resident of Jacksonville, Fla. became an SIU member in 1963. He sailed with American Steamship Company for the duration of his career. Brother Said was a member of the deck department. He was born in Arabia. Brother Said now calls Dearborn, Mich., home. NATIONAL MARITIME UNION MARTIN MORRISSETTE Brother Martin Morrissette, 65, is a native of Mobile, Ala. A member of the deck department, he began sailing with the NMU in 1979. Brother Morrissette’s final trip to sea was on the Advantage. He continues to reside in Mobile. JOHN DEWLING Brother John Dewling, 66, became an NMU member in 1972. He was born in Massachusetts. Brother Dewling was last employed with Boston Towing & Transportation Company. He makes his home Revere, Mass. This Month In SIU History GREAT LAKES ABDALLAH SAID Brother Abdallah Said, 79, Editor’s note: The following items are reprinted from previous editions of the Seafarers LOG. 1946 The SIU pulled a complete work stoppage on all ships on June 6 to force the steamship companies to negotiate for new agreements. As a result of the stoppage, negotiations commenced with the operators on Tuesday, June 11. Among other things, the union was seeking establishment of a 40-hour work week. 1959 Seafarers on the cement carrier Florida State were caught in the crossfire stirred by an attempted revolt in the Dominican Republic last week, but all escaped unhurt. The SIUmanned ship was strafed by planes and stopped by gunboats several times off the Dominican coast before returning to Port Everglades. The latest incidents occurred a few hours before an alleged “invasion force” was stopped right on the coast by Dominican government forces. The “invaders” reportedly had been based in Cuba. All reports indicate that the armed action against the Florida State took place outside the Caribbean nation’s coastal waters. The State Department has asked the U.S. ambassador to investigate. 1963 The SIU’s sickness and accident benefits program for seamen passed another milestone this month when total benefits paid out in all ports topped the $1,000,000 mark. Since October 1961 more than $50,000 per month was paid out to members covering off-the-job illness and injury. The benefits include a payment of $8 per day or $56 per week for a maximum of 39 weeks for hospitalized Seafarers and outpatients. Thus, a Seafarer who is in the hospital for 10 weeks and receives $56 per week during that period is entitled to 29 weeks of benefits if he remains on outpatient status. 1971 The jobs of Seafarers are on the line in the renewed attack on the Jones Act, a body of laws that demands that all domestic shipping be moved on American-flag vessels. The heavy assault on the Jones Act is being led by the oil industry, which wants oil from the rich Alaskan fields carried on runaway-flag tankers. They would rip the heart out of the Jones Act so they could transport Alaskan oil from one U.S. port to another in foreign-built, foreign-manned tankers – paying slave wages and at the same time escaping the taxes that must be paid by American-flag operators…. The SIU is leading a campaign to muster Congressional support to strengthen the Jones Act. Seafarers LOG 17 �64746_LOG 5/25/2011 8:57 PM Page 18 Final Departures DEEP SEA EDWARD GONTHA Pensioner Edward Gontha, 81, passed away January 24. Brother Gontha joined the Seafarers in 1961 in the port of New York. His initial voyage was aboard a MooreMcCormack Lines vessel. Brother Gontha, who sailed in the deck department, was born in Manado, Indonesia. His final trip was on the Aries. Brother Gontha retired in 1994 and called Staten Island, N.Y., home. JAMES HAINES Pensioner James Haines, 74, died January 17. Brother Haines was born in Pennsylvania. He signed on with the SIU in 1961 while in the port of New York. Brother Haines originally worked in the deck department of the Mermaid. He last sailed aboard the Patriot. Brother Haines went on pension in 1991 and lived in Las Vegas. ENEDINA HATCHL Pensioner Enedina Hatchl, 82, passed away January 19, 2011. Sister Hatchl began sailing with the union in 1978 from the port of San Francisco. She was initially employed on the Santa Mariana. Sister Hatchl, who worked in the steward department, was born in Texas. She most recently sailed aboard the Lurline. Sister Hatchl started receiving her pension in 1994 and settled in New Mexico. ROBERT MAYS Pensioner Robert Mays, 78, died December 12. Brother Mays started his seafaring career in 1952. His first vessel was the Government Camp; his last was the St. Louis. Brother Mays was a member of the engine department. He became a pensioner in 1997 and made his home in Vallejo, Calif. JOHN MCAVOY Pensioner John McAvoy, 81, passed away December 9. Brother McAvoy joined the union in 1965 while in the port of Jacksonville, Fla. He originally worked aboard the Banner. The engine department member’s last trip was on the American Eagle. Brother McAvoy retired in 1991 and called Jacksonville home. 18 Seafarers LOG SERAFIN MILLA Pensioner Serafin Milla, 78, died January 19. Brother Milla first donned the SIU colors in 1959. His earliest trip was aboard the Del Viento. Brother Milla was a member of the deck department. He was born in Honduras. Brother Milla’s final voyage was on the Overseas Arctic. He began collecting his retirement compensation in 1997. Brother Milla was a resident of Houston. THOMAS NAVARRE Pensioner Thomas Navarre, 83, passed away December 22. Brother Navarre became a Seafarer in 1951 in the port of New Orleans. He initially worked aboard the Del Sud. Brother Navarre, a member of the steward department, was a Louisiana native. Prior to his retirement in 1991, one of his last ships was the Long Lines. Brother Navarre resided in San Pedro, Calif. UDJANG NURDJAJA Pensioner Udjang Nurdjaja, 70, died December 2. Brother Nurdjaja signed on with the union in 1973 while in the port of New York. The steward department member initially worked with Sacramento Transport Inc. Brother Nurdjaja was born in Indonesia. Before retiring in 2005, he shipped on the Capricorn. Brother Nurdjaja lived in Brooklyn, N.Y. RALPH PORTER Pensioner Ralph Porter, 65, passed away December 12. Brother Porter began his seafaring career in 1988 in the port of San Francisco. He originally sailed aboard a Bay Tankers Inc. vessel. Brother Porter was a deck department member. He most recently worked on the USNS Capella. Brother Porter went on pension in 2010. He made his home in New Orleans. JOHN QUINTER Pensioner John Quinter, 75, died January 25. Brother Quinter was born in Berks, Pa. He started sailing with the SIU in 1953. Brother Quinter, who sailed in the engine department, was first employed with Ore Navigation Corporation. His last voyage was aboard the Charleston. Brother Quinter became a pensioner in 1993. He was a resident of Sea Level, N.C. WALTER SCHOENECKER Brother Walter Schoenecker, 56, passed away in late 2010. He joined the Seafarers in 1990. Brother Schoenecker shipped in the steward department. His first ship was the USNS Chauvenet; his last was the Grand Canyon State. Brother Schoenecker continued to reside in his native state of New York. ARTHUR SPENCER Brother Arthur Spencer, 65, died earlier this year. He sailed with the Military Sealift Command for more than 30 years. Brother Spencer worked in the steward department. His final trip was on the USNS Diehl. Brother Spencer called Vallejo, Calif., home. INLAND MELVIN MOORE Pensioner Melvin Moore, 87, passed away January 15. Brother Moore became an SIU member in 1951 while in the port of Houston. His earliest trip was aboard a Sprogue Steamship Company vessel. Brother Moore was born in Utah and sailed in the deck department. He last shipped with G&H Towing. Brother Moore started receiving his pension in 1991 and settled in Corpus Christi, Texas. JACKIE NIXON Pensioner Jackie Nixon, 63, died December 13. Brother Nixon was born in North Carolina. He first donned the SIU colors in 1965. Brother Nixon initially shipped with R.K. Davis Transportation Inc. He last sailed aboard an Allied Transportation Company vessel. Brother Nixon lived in Belhaven, N.C. GEORGE WOODS Pensioner George Woods, 77, passed away December 12. Brother Woods began sailing with the union in 1962. He worked with G&H Towing Company for the duration of his seafaring career. Brother Woods went on pension in 1996. He made his home in Freeport, Texas. Editor’s note: The following brothers, all former members of the National Maritime Union (NMU), have passed away. NATIONAL MARITIME UNION started collecting his retirement compensation in 1993. Brother Moran lived in Flint, Mich. CECIL MURRAY Pensioner Cecil Murray, 84, died December 13. Brother Murray, a native of Massachusetts, became a pensioner in 1967. He called Virginia Beach, Va., home. RENE ARAY Pensioner Rene Aray, 75, passed away January 1. Brother Aray was born in Ecuador. He retired in 2000 and lived in Berkeley Township, N.J. CLARENCE NICHOLS Pensioner Clarence Nichols, 93, passed away January 5. Brother Nichols was born in Maryland. He went on pension in 1973. Brother Nichols settled in Hagerstown, Md. LUIS BURGUILLO Pensioner Luis Burguillo, 83, passed away January 19. Brother Burguillo was born in Puerto Rico. He went on pension in 1968. Brother Burguillo settled in Bronx, N.Y. CANDELARIO RAMIREZ Pensioner Candelario Ramirez, 76, passed away January 8. Brother Ramirez was a native of City Creek, Texas. He started collecting his retirement compensation in 1989. Brother Ramirez lived in Corpus Christi, Texas. JOHN BARKHOUSE Pensioner John Barkhouse, 70, died December 17. Brother Barkhouse, a native of Massachusetts, became a pensioner in 2005. He called Goose Creek, S.C., home. CARLOS COFRESSI Pensioner Carlos Cofressi, 92, died December 30. The Puerto Rico-born mariner began receiving his pension in 1985. Brother Cofressi was a resident of Palm Bay, Fla. SIGLEY HAYLOCK Pensioner Sigley Haylock, 65, passed away December 17. Brother Haylock was a native of Honduras. He started collecting his retirement compensation in 2010. Brother Haylock made his home in Gretna, La. THEODORE HILL Pensioner Theodore Hill, 83, died January 3. Brother Hill was born in Maryland. He went on pension in 1989 and called Randallstown, Md., home. HUMBERTO LOPEZ Pensioner Humberto Lopez, 75, passed away January 3. Brother Lopez was a native of Honduras. He retired in 1994. Brother Lopez made his home in New Orleans. SAM LOWE Pensioner Sam Lowe, 91, died January 12. Brother Lowe was born in Palmer, Texas. He became a pensioner in 1985. Brother Lowe settled in Houston. CARLOS PIETRI Pensioner Carlos Pietri, 82, died January 9. The Puerto Rico-born mariner became a pensioner in 1984. Brother Pietri was a resident of Lake Worth, Fla. JOHN SANTOS Pensioner John Santos, 85, died January 13. Brother Santos was born in New Bedford, Mass. He went on pension in 1969 and continued to call New Bedford home. WALTER SCOTT Pensioner Walter Scott, 86, passed away January 3. Brother Scott was a native of Massachusetts. He retired in 1989. Brother Scott made his home in Anadarko, Okla. ROBERT STEWART Pensioner Robert Stewart, 90, died December 10. Brother Stewart was born in North Carolina. He became a pensioner in 1984. Brother Stewart settled in Portsmouth, Va. Name Age Echevarria, Jose 85 Harris, Thomas 84 Hernandez, Ross 87 Hong, Wong 94 Kelly, Thearther 87 96 Kessler, Arthur Leabough, Oscar 86 Lopez, Tony 94 Lyon, Barclay 86 Marshall, James 90 Martinez, Cristobal 87 Martinez, Eduardo 83 Morales, Pedro 90 Pulvano, Alfred 84 Rodgers, James 90 Smith, John 63 Winburn, Samuel 82 DOD Nov. 25 Dec. 28 Dec. 5 Nov. 17 Dec. 15 Jan. 1 Dec. 22 Nov. 15 Dec. 11 Jan. 1 Nov. 16 Nov. 6 Jan. 4 Dec. 6 Dec. 10 Jan. 8 Jan. 3 EDWARD MORAN Pensioner Edward Moran, 83, passed away January 4. Brother Moran was a Michigan native. He June 2011 �64746_LOG 5/25/2011 8:57 PM Page 19 Digest of Shipboard Union Meetings CURTIS (Crowley), March 14 – Chairman Daniel Carman, Secretary Thomas M. Wybo, Educational Director Mark Campbell, Deck Delegate Richard Pepper, Steward Delegate Subagio Wibisono. Chairman thanked crew members for working together professionally, especially when USMC stores arrived early. He stated payoff would take place March 15 in San Diego, Calif. Secretary gave a vote of thanks to all departments for helping keep ship clean and safe. He reminded mariners to take TRB and MSC letters to the union hall. Seafarers were encouraged to take advantage of educational opportunities available at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Request was made for a slop chest aboard vessel. Next port: San Diego. The Seafarers LOG attempts to print as many digests of union shipboard minutes as possible. On occasion, because of space limitations, some will be omitted. Ships’ minutes first are reviewed by the union’s contract department. Those issues requiring attention or resolution are addressed by the union upon receipt of the ships’ minutes. The minutes are then forwarded to the Seafarers LOG for publication. CIVMARS Sail in ‘Continuing Promise’ EL FARO (Sea Star), March 3 – Chairman Raymond S. Henderson, Secretary John W. Hale, Educational Director Monroe G. Monseur, Steward Delegate Mary Littel. For next contract, chairman suggested increasing pension benefit and lowering working dues. Secretary urged members to enhance their skills, which can lead to better opportunities and advancement. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew thanked steward department for job well done. Next ports: San Juan, P.R. and Jacksonville, Fla. FREEDOM (Crowley), March 4 – Chairman Timothy J. Fitzgerald, Secretary Frank J. Starling, Deck Delegate Craig Pare, Engine Delegate Cynthia Harris. Chairman announced payoff upon arrival in Beaumont, Texas, on March 8. He thanked crew for a safe and good trip, reminded them to leave rooms clean and encouraged them to check merchant mariner credentials and other documents for expiration dates. Educational director advised everyone to upgrade at the SIU-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Mariners requested direct deposit of vacation checks and refrigerators for all rooms. Crew discussed importance of supporting other unions who are being unfairly blamed for budget woes. Next port: Beaumont, Texas. (Transoceanic Cable Ship Co.), March 22 – Chairman Joseph Olson, Secretary Shawn Fujiwara, Educational Director Lother Wick, Deck Delegate Justin Beal, Engine Delegate Gary Bartlett, Steward Delegate Dennis Skretta. Chairman reminded crew to help keep common areas clean and to clean out lint after dryer usage. New washer has been installed by engine department in crew laundry. New computers for crew use have been installed. Secretary informed all that if there are things they would like the ship’s committee to purchase for crew usage, let the committee know GLOBAL SENTINEL June 2011 Members of the SIU Government Services Division sailing aboard the hospital ship USNS Comfort are participating in a five-month humanitarian assistance mission to the Caribbean, Central and South America. Above, Comfort personnel including AB Erwin Joiner and Lt. Cmdr. Katherine Austin wash the vessel’s anchor chain as the crew prepares to sail from Paita, Peru. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Brian A. Goyak) and they’ll run it by the captain. If there are items they’d like to see stocked in the slop chest, let steward know. New “green” laundry soap to be provided by company. These were tried in the past, with mixed results. Educational director encouraged mariners to upgrade at Piney Point. He also reminded everyone to keep their documents current, allow time for renewals, and make copies of originals for reference in case they are lost. Treasurer reported about $4,000 in ship’s fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew suggested various acquisitions for library and recreational area. Next port: Portland, Ore. (Horizon Lines), March 25 – Chairman George Khan, Secretary William Bryley, Educational Director Erik Nappier, Deck Delegate Bruce Bussert, Engine Delegate Albert Dulig, Steward Delegate Frank Ramones. Old beef from late December resolved. Chairman said union officials came aboard in Oakland, Calif., to discuss company personnel changes. He advised members about direct deposit and also pointed out there are new cans in the laundry room for old lights, batteries and aerosol cans, which cannot be disposed of in trash cans. Secretary relayed request from captain for nominees for monthly safety award. Educational director asked crew members to leave clean rooms and clean linens for arriving members and also to separate plastic from garbage. He also urged all members to keep up with union news and upgrade. HORIZON ENTERPRISE No beefs or disputed OT reported. New mattresses and new TV received. Next port: Tacoma, Wash. HORIZON HUNTER (Horizon Lines), March 12 – Chairman Hussein Mohamed, Secretary Jennifer K. Jim, Educational Director Jeff Morris, Deck Delegate Ryan Legario, Engine Delegate Mark Maduro, Steward Delegate Romeo Manansala. Chairman reminded crew to leave clean linens for new crew members coming aboard. He discussed certain procedures for renewing mariner credentials. Secretary reported ship’s fund has been used to purchase goods for barbeque, refrigerators for rooms and refunding purchases for those who paid for TV in their rooms. Educational director encouraged mariners to upgrade at union-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Chairman encouraged crew to read President Sacco’s report in Seafarers LOG. Vote of thanks given to steward department for good food and service. Crew also thanked departing Chief Cook Wiley Owens. Members expressed concern about upcoming contract negotiations. They made several detailed requests and observations. (Editor’s note: By membership vote, the standard freightship and tanker agreements have been extended one year.) Next port: Oakland, Calif. MAERSK MISSOURI (Maersk Line, Limited), March 20 – Chairman Oliver Balico, Secretary Billy Gigante, Educational Director Roger Dillinger, Deck Delegate John O’Shaughnessy, Engine Delegate James Sieger, Steward Delegate Brian McEleney. Chairman reported good voyage with good crew. Payoff scheduled for following day; ship soon bound for Dubai, Port Qasim, Salalah and India. Secretary reminded crew to leave cabins clean for reliefs. Educational director advised fellow members to upgrade at Paul Hall Center and keep shipping documents updated. Treasurer reported $2,000 in ship’s fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew thanked steward department for job well done. Next port: Charleston, S.C. OVERSEAS NIKISKI (OSG), March 30 – Chairman Khaled Munasser, Secretary Joseph Emidy, Educational Director Benjamin Matthews. Chairman thanked everyone for “a productive trip without injury or issues, and also for cooperation between departments in making this trip an enjoyable one in the spirit of SIU tradition.” Secretary thanked crew for keeping common areas clean. Educational director urged members to upgrade at Paul Hall Center and described the school as a very valuable tool to use for acquiring seafaring knowledge. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew asked for examination of company policy concerning reimbursement for luggage on flights. Crew recommended increasing pension benefits. Vote of thanks given to steward department for outstanding meals and cleanliness. Next port: Anacortes, Wash. USNS BUTTON (American Overseas Marine), March 25 – Chairman Gregory Jackson, Secretary Edwin Bonefont, Educational Director Efren Willarosa, Deck Delegate Jerry Stillman, Engine Delegate Charles Ellsworth, Steward Delegate Edward Ellis. Crew discussed some particulars of deck department security watches. Chairman noted patrolman came aboard in Guam and discussed medical plan and vacation pay. Educational director suggested upgrading in Piney Point to keep up with the times, including Coast Guard and company requests and requirements. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew is sending photos of recent mission to Seafarers LOG. (See page 11.) Crew asked about wireless connectivity. (Crowley), March 7 – Chairman Charles Hill, Secretary Frederick Saffo, Educational Director Niles Jacobsen, Engine Delegate Chromer Jefferson. Chairman discussed procedural issue related to gangway watch. Secretary reminded crew to follow protocol for resolving questions and complaints. Educational director encouraged mariners to upgrade at Paul Hall Center. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew discussed need for nonskid material in galley by dishwasher. Crew thanked steward department for job well done. New washer and dryer on hand and ready for installation. New TV will be purchased in States. Next port: Houston. YORKTOWN EXPRESS Seafarers LOG 19 �64746_LOG 5/25/2011 8:38 PM Page 20 Merchant Mariner Recalls Life at Sea During ‘Old Days’ Continued from Page 14 the explosion was due to sabotage. (The degaussing system is installed aboard ship to reduce the ship’s effect on the Earth’s magnetic field. This system reduces the chances of a magnetic mine being attracted to the ship.) It was known that many of the German shipyard workers resented seeing their once-prized ocean liner being used by the United States as a troop carrier. The United States was in the process of signing a peace treaty with Germany, France, Great Britain and Russia, and it was thought the free-floating mine theory was a political decision. You should note that as part of the cease-fire agreement with the United States and its allies, Germany had agreed to have their Navy, the Kriegsmarine, be responsible for clearing their rivers and ports of all mines, disarming them and any other explosive devices. Some members of our crew believed that the Germans were just cutting the mines loose and letting them float free, knowing it would not be German ships hitting mines but their conquerors. One of our deckhands from New York said, “Can you imagine if the Germans had won the war and told us guys in Brooklyn to clear New York Bay so they could navigate it without being in harm’s way?” I stayed in Bremerhaven with a skeleton crew for six months while the ship was repaired. The remainder of the crew had been sent home on another transport. World War II would not be officially over until the end of that year, December 31, 1946. As much as I hated the Germans for what they had done during the war, it didn’t take me long to feel sorry for them, especially the kids. The entire population was living at starvation level and it was depressing to watch women and kids picking through our garbage in the hope of finding some edible scraps. Odd though, I came home with a memory of street after street of bombed buildings, many completely blown away and, yet, the sidewalks and roads completely swept clean of debris. As my mates and I became more acquainted with the local population, we would eventually talk about the war. What happened to who and where. The answers we received to some of our questions became a joke amongst us. We never met anyone who knew or was related to anyone in the German armed forces who had fought on the Western Front against the Americans. No, they would say, their fathers, their brothers, etc. had all only fought on the Eastern Front against the terrible Russians. We never met any youth who admitted to having been a member of the Hitler Jugend, Hitler’s Youth Program; it was always the boy who lived down the street or a distant cousin. As to their thoughts about Hitler, they would tell us that he was crazy and they could not understand how he became their leader. Some of us in the engine crew had befriended a young FINANCIAL REPORTS. The Constitution of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU makes specific provision for safeguarding the membership’s money and union finances. The constitution requires a detailed audit by certified public accountants every year, which is to be submitted to the membership by the secretary-treasurer. A yearly finance committee of rank-and-file members, elected by the membership, each year examines the finances of the union and reports fully their findings and recommendations. Members of this committee may make dissenting reports, specific recommendations and separate findings. TRUST FUNDS. All trust funds of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU are administered in accordance with the provisions of various trust fund agreements. All these agreements specify that the trustees in charge of these funds shall equally consist of union and management representatives and their alternates. All expenditures and disbursements of trust funds are made only upon approval by a majority of the trustees. All trust fund financial records are available at the headquarters of the various trust funds. SHIPPING RIGHTS. A member’s shipping rights and seniority are protected exclusively by contracts between the union and the employers. Members should get to know their shipping rights. Copies of these contracts are posted and available in all union halls. If members believe there have been violations of their shipping or seniority rights as contained in the contracts between the union and the employers, they should notify the Seafarers Appeals Board by certified mail, return receipt requested. The proper 20 Seafarers LOG boy, about 13 or so, named Falker. His mom let us sleep over in their house when we stayed overnight in town after curfew. Falker became our translator and guide in our travels about the area. He also helped us to learn many everyday German idioms that came in handy during our stay. We returned his good will by giving him cigarettes, candy and food items to bring home. His father had been killed in action on the Eastern Front fighting the Russians, or so he told us. Near the end of war, when the residents knew they had lost and that Germany would soon be occupied, they held meetings to discuss how best to handle the situation. They decided to hang white pieces of cloth from their windows and doorways as a signal of their surrender and willingness to comply with the occupation forces. They had to be very careful with the timing when hanging the white cloths, as there were still die-hard German fanatics roaming the streets who were willing to die for their Fatherland and were executing anyone found surrendering. Falker told us that he and his cousin had a handgun that they planned to use to protect their mothers if anyone tried to molest them. Bad news travels fast and they had heard what the Russians were doing to the German women in their areas of occupation. Falker told us that one day he and his family heard artillery firing in the distance and knew the end was near. Falker with his mother, aunt and cousins took refuge in a cellar to await their fate. Sometime later, the noise from the artillery fire had ceased and they heard shouting coming from the road. Falker decided to investigate the noise and discovered it was coming from trucks filled with Canadian soldiers who were throwing candy bars to the kids. The soldiers appeared to be friendly and not at all threatening. He caught a few pieces of candy and reported to his family. Everyone was elated that the war was over – no more bombing and no more kids going off to war. They were especially pleased to see that their former enemies were not molesting the women as they were told to expect. Later in the evening, trucks came by and distributed canned food to the eager hands reaching up to the trucks. Falker added that if the Germans in his area knew how they were to be treated by the Allies, they would have surrendered earlier. It was understood by all, months before, that they were losing the war; their men had stopped writing and did not come home on leave, the bombing intensified, and the food shortages worsened. Bremerhaven was in the British zone. The American zone was in the southern part of Germany. The French zone was to the west and the Russian to the east, a sector that included Berlin. In the late 1940s, troops and cargo were still transported by ships, very little by airplanes. For this reason, the United States needed a port and arranged with the British to create an American enclave in the British zone to handle our shipping. Know Your Rights address for this is: Augustin Tellez, Chairman Seafarers Appeals Board 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 Full copies of contracts as referred to are available to members at all times, either by writing directly to the union or to the Seafarers Appeals Board. CONTRACTS. Copies of all SIU contracts are available in all SIU halls. These contracts specify the wages and conditions under which an SIU member works and lives aboard a ship or boat. Members should know their contract rights, as well as their obligations, such as filing for overtime (OT) on the proper sheets and in the proper manner. If, at any time, a member believes that an SIU patrolman or other union official fails to protect their contractual rights properly, he or she should contact the nearest SIU port agent. EDITORIAL POLICY — THE SEAFARERS LOG. The Seafarers LOG traditionally has refrained from publishing any article serving the political purposes of any individual in the union, officer or member. It also has refrained from publishing articles deemed harmful to the union or its collective membership. This established policy has been reaffirmed by membership action at the September 1960 meetings in all constitutional ports. The responsibility for Seafarers LOG policy is vested in an editorial board which consists of the executive board of the union. The executive board may delegate, from among its ranks, one individual to carry out this responsibility. PAYMENT OF MONIES. No monies Bremerhaven was a seaport with exceptionally large dry docks and repair facilities. My ship the Alexander was put in to one of the dry docks following the explosion to be inspected for damages. It stayed in the dry dock for a week and then was re-floated and towed to a nearby dock for repairs. Except for security personnel, the crew, including me, stayed and ate at the seamen’s club in town for about a month before moving back to the ship. We had to report to the ship each morning but, fortunately, there was no attendance taken. We visited the bigger city of Bremen on weekends. The American Army had opened a huge beer hall in Bremen for allied personnel and sold American beer. The beer was imported from the States as there was no German beer available. One of my shipmates, a former paratrooper, met an Army sergeant he knew who was supervising the beer hall. Old friends do help each other and it was arranged to have two kegs of beer delivered to a German bar back in Bremerhaven for use by us, the crew from the Alexander. The bar owner put one of the kegs of beer outside his back window, covered it with snow to keep it cold, and piped it in to his tap. The bar became our meeting place for the remainder of our stay. My sister Ellen wrote to tell me that one of her co-workers at the B and G Company where she worked in New York City had parents living in Bremerhaven and asked if I could get in touch with them and report back to her. Coincidences do happen! The bar owner and his wife that handled our kegs of beer proved to be the man’s parents. I couldn’t do much for them as I had so little with me in Germany. I did manage to get them some cigarettes for trading that they appreciated. The late fall and early winter months of 1946 were cold and the freezing temperatures added to the hardships of the local population in the Bremerhaven area. There were both extensive fuel and food shortages. The Germans were having a difficult time just trying to stay alive. Among our crew, there were men who did not hesitate to say, “Let the bastards die.” This was especially true of the American World War II military veterans, who had fought the Germans in Europe, had seen their buddies killed during the fighting and who now worked aboard the army transports. One of our engineers was an American Jew who had lost his family in prewar Germany. He showed no compassion for any German – old or young. He spoke German fluently, and if a young German addressed him using the German familiar form of the pronoun “you,” he would slap the youngster in the face. He would explain to the crew that the boy recognized that he was Jewish and used the familiar “you” to show his disdain. Most of the crew, however, soon developed a relationship with various German families and could arrange to sleep over at their houses outside of town after curfew. are to be paid to anyone in any official capacity in the SIU unless an official union receipt is given for same. Under no circumstances should any member pay any money for any reason unless he is given such receipt. In the event anyone attempts to require any such payment be made without supplying a receipt, or if a member is required to make a payment and is given an official receipt, but feels that he or she should not have been required to make such payment, this should immediately be reported to union headquarters. CONSTITUTIONAL RIGHTS AND OBLIGATIONS. Copies of the SIU Constitution are available in all union halls. All members should obtain copies of this constitution so as to familiarize themselves with its contents. Any time a member feels any other member or officer is attempting to deprive him or her of any constitutional right or obligation by any methods, such as dealing with charges, trials, etc., as well as all other details, the member so affected should immediately notify headquarters. EQUAL RIGHTS. All members are guaranteed equal rights in employment and as members of the SIU. These rights are clearly set forth in the SIU Constitution and in the contracts which the union has negotiated with the employers. Consequently, no member may be discriminated against because of race, creed, color, sex, national or geographic origin. If any member feels that he or she is denied the equal rights to which he or she is entitled, the member should notify union headquarters. SEAFARERS POLITICAL ACTIVI- TY DONATION — SPAD. SPAD is a separate segregated fund. Its proceeds are used to further its objects and purposes including, but not limited to, furthering the political, social and economic interests of maritime workers, the preservation and furthering of the American merchant marine with improved employment opportunities for seamen and boatmen and the advancement of trade union concepts. In connection with such objects, SPAD supports and contributes to political candidates for elective office. All contributions are voluntary. No contribution may be solicited or received because of force, job discrimination, financial reprisal, or threat of such conduct, or as a condition of membership in the union or of employment. If a contribution is made by reason of the above improper conduct, the member should notify the Seafarers International Union or SPAD by certified mail within 30 days of the contribution for investigation and appropriate action and refund, if involuntary. A member should support SPAD to protect and further his or her economic, political and social interests, and American trade union concepts. NOTIFYING THE UNION — If at any time a member feels that any of the above rights have been violated, or that he or she has been denied the constitutional right of access to union records or information, the member should immediately notify SIU President Michael Sacco at headquarters by certified mail, return receipt requested. The address is: Michael Sacco, President Seafarers International Union 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746. . June 2011 �64746_LOG 5/25/2011 8:38 PM Page 21 Paul Hall Center Upgrading Course Schedule The following is the schedule of courses at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md., for the next few months. All programs are geared to improving the job skills of Seafarers and to promoting the American maritime industry. Please note that this schedule may change to reflect the needs of the membership, the maritime industry and—in times of conflict—the nation’s security. Students attending any of these classes should check in the Saturday before their course’s start date. The courses listed here will begin promptly on the morning of the start dates. For classes ending on a Friday, departure reservations should be made for Saturday. Seafarers who have any questions regarding the upgrading courses offered at the Paul Hall Center may call the admissions office at (301) 994-0010. Title of Course Start Date Date of Completion Marine Electrician July 16 September 9 Title of Course ARPA ECDIS FOWT Advanced Firefighting August 26 Government Vessels July 22 June 24 September 9 July 8 August 5 September 9 September 7 August 6 August 19 July 23 Tanker Asst. Cargo DL BAPO November 7 September 7 Radar Observer Tank Barge PIC October 15 August 26 August 27 Radar renewal (one day) August 5 October 8 October 14 Engine Department July 23 September 17 August 19 October 14 June 25 August 20 July 22 September 16 UPGRADING APPLICATION Name ____________________________________________________________________ Address __________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________ Telephone (Home)_________________________ (Cell)_________________________ Date of Birth ______________________________________________________________ Deep Sea Member ❏ Lakes Member ❏ Inland Waters Member ❏ If the following information is not filled out completely, your application will not be processed. Social Security #_______________________ Book # ____________________________ Seniority_____________________________ Department______________________ Home Port_____________________________________________________________ E-mail________________________________________________________________ Endorsement(s) or License(s) now held______________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________ Are you a graduate of the SHLSS/PHC trainee program? ❏ Yes ❏ No Have you attended any SHLSS/PHC upgrading courses? ❏ Yes ❏ No If yes, class # ______________________________________________________________ If yes, course(s) taken_____________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________________ June 2011 Steward Department July 9 October 8 Galley Operations/Advanced Galley Operations These modules start every Monday. June 25 July 23 STOS June 4 July 9 August 12 June 11 August 27 Lifeboat Welding July 16 August 20 GMDSS July 30 Chief Steward July 16 Fast Rescue Boats Machinist Date of Completion August 20 Bosun Recertification August 20 Start Date Deck Department Able Seaman Junior Engineer October 14 August 19 June 24 July 29 August 19 November 18 Chief Cook These modules start every other week. The most recent class began May 30. Basic Firefighting/STCW Safety Upgrading Courses September 17 July 16 June 18 Medical Care Provider October 1 MSC Readiness Refresher Vessel Security Officer NOTICE: June 11 July 30 October 15 September 30 July 22 June 24 October 7 June 17 August 5 October 18 NMC Web Site is Vital Resource for Mariners The National Maritime Center (NMC), the licensing authority for the U.S. Coast Guard, offers a comprehensive web site covering mariner credentialing, medical guidelines and much more. The site features a wide range of applications and forms, deck- and engine-department exam information, lists of Coast Guardapproved courses and more. Seafarers are encouraged to check out the site at:http://www.uscg.mil/nmc/ Mariners may call the NMC at 1888-IASKNMC (1-888-427-5662). Operational hours are 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. EST, Monday through Friday. (The NMC is closed for all federal holidays.) Various email forms also are available through the NMC web site. With this application, COPIES of the following must be sent: One hundred and twentyfive (125) days seatime for the previous year, one day in the last six months prior to the date your class starts, USMMD (z-card) front and back or relevant pages of merchant mariner credential, front page of your union book indicating your department and seniority, qualifying seatime for the course if it is Coast Guard tested, 1995 STCW Certificate, valid SHBP Clinic Card and TWIC. COURSE ____________________________ START DATE _______________ DATE OF COMPLETION _______________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________ ____________________________ ____________________________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________ _______________ _______________ _______________ _______________ LAST VESSEL: __________________________________Rating: ______________ Date On: ___________________________ Date Off:________________________ SIGNATURE ________________________________ DATE___________________ NOTE: Transportation will be paid in accordance with the scheduling letter only if you present original receipts and successfully complete the course. If you have any questions, contact your port agent before departing for Piney Point. Not all classes are reimbursable.Return completed application to: Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education Admissions Office, P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674-0075; or fax to (301) 994-2189. The Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education is a private, non-profit, equal opportunity institution and admits students, who are otherwise qualified, of any race, nationality or sex. The school complies with applicable laws with regard to admission, access or treatment of students in its programs or activities. 6/11 Seafarers LOG 21 �64746_LOG_X2 5/26/2011 7:09 PM Page 22 Paul Hall Center Classes Unlicensed Apprentice Water Survival Class 743 – Eight Phase I unlicensed apprentices on Feb. 18 completed their requirements in this 60hour course. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Monasser Ali, Ryan Crowell, Michael Dooley, Joel Harris, Sean Hernandez, Peter Mertz, Nicholas Santillo and Julian Swimpson. Class Instructor Ben Cusic is at the far right. Unlicensed Apprentice Water Survival Class 744 – The following individuals, 12 Phase I unlicensed apprentices and two upgraders (above, in alphabetical order) finished this 60-hour course March 18: Therman Ames, Michael Beard, Tekeisha Brown, Joseph Dasteel, Slethvana Jules, Mark Keller, Thomas Konsistorum, Ahmed Mohamed, Kurt Sherwin, Christopher Staley, Robert Surette, Roderick Thomas, Robert Tomo and Deralle Watson (upgrader). Ben Cusic, their instructor, is at left. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Welding – Nine upgraders completed their requirements in this 103-hour course April 22. Graduating and receiving certificates (above, in alphabetical order) were: Jason Bimie, Nicholas Brissey, John Cooper, Xavier Normil, Lamar Pinckney, Guiomar Rancel, Peter Solis, Elijah Stewart-Eastman and Reylan Tendito. Class Instructor Buzzy Andrews is standing third from the right. Specially Trained Ordinary Seaman – Seven mariners on April 29 completed their requirements in this class. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Jeremy Boyd, Michael Fertl, Howard Gulliams, Abobakr Hasan, Zeyad Muthala, Lear Surcedo and DeMilton Wheat. Stan Beck, their instructor, is at the far right. Basic Meteorology – The following Seafarers, above, in alpha- betical order, graduated from this course April 8: Ray Adams Jr., Ronald Boatwright Sr., Dominique Calvy, Samuel Lloyd, Dustin Marks and Hector Ortiz. Class Instructor Lee Chesneau is at the far left. Marine Refrigeration – Ten upgraders finished their enhancement of their skills in this course April 8. Completing the class (above, in alphabetical order) were: Dennis Adjetey, Robin Bourgeois, Robert Egri, Joie Flasner, Joseph Grandinetti, Antoine Rainey, Trent Sterling, Jessie Turner, Philandar Walton and Richard Wright. Jay Henderson, their instructor, is at the far right. 22 Seafarers LOG Students who have registered for classes at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, but later discover—for whatever reason—that they cannot attend should inform the admissions department immediately so arrangements can be made to have other students take their places. June 2011 �64746_LOG 5/25/2011 8:38 PM Page 23 Paul Hall Center Classes Readiness Refresher – Twelve individuals completed this course March 18. Graduating (left, in alphabetical order) were: Craig Argue, Christopher Bean, Edward Carlson, Leonard Dale Jr., John Davis, Caleb Gilbert, Todd Gleason, Kevin Hollenback, Karl Mayhew, William Rabatsky, Jody Sparks and Jeffrey Walton. Stan Beck, their instructor, is fourth from the left. BST (Hawaii) - The following individuals (above, in no particular order) graduated from this course at the Seafarers Training Facility in Hawaii April 30: Robert Gonzalez, Rae Aguilera, Ryan Brady, Justin Challenger, Aretta Davis, Maximus Fuminaya, Preston Hadley, Matthew Hill, Olivia Kardos, Kevin Knight, Timothy Konick, Christopher Pahnlick, Hannah Perry, Brittany Samuels, Micah Stanton, and Sylvia Taylor. Specially Trained Ordinary Seaman – Twelve upgraders finished this course April 1. Graduating and receiving certificates (above, in alphabetical order) were: Daniel Coffman, Chantell Dawson, Ricardo Dayrit, Peter Hamm, Ricky Langley, Kenneth Ledeoux, Derrick Martin, Alexander Matthew, Sadeka Mohamed, Cory Mulligan, Justin Pierce, Duane Reber and Corey Shanely. Class instructor Stan Beck is at the far left. ECDIS (Crowley) – Five individuals completed their requirements in this course April 1. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Matthew Fouse, Andrew Hook, George Sadler, Mark Tilly and Philip Wright. Their instructor, Brad Wheeler, is third from the left. Simulator Training (Crescent Towing) - The following individuals (above, from left to right) finished their requirements in this course recently: Mobile Harbor Pilot Bernie Scott, Mobile Bar Pilot Peter Burns, Crescent Towing Capt. Chris Walker, Crescent Towing Wheelman Josh Burns, Crescent Towing Wheelman John McCarthy and Crescent Towing Asst. VP Tom Lambard. Mitch Oakley, their instructor, is at the far right. Tankship Familiarization DL – The following upgraders (above, in alphabetical order) completed the enhancement of their skills in this course April 15. Graduating from the course were: Dominique Alston, Johney August, Bernard Baker, Mady Balat, Christopher Bean, Harold Borden, Gordon Cherup, John Coleman Jr., John Davis, Omar Espinosa, Felix Garcia, Mark Hoffman, Thomas Humpherys III, Hussein Marumbo Hussein, Derrick Martin, Roger Nesbeth, Eddy Newman, Costica Oprisoru, Oleg Pankratov, Daune Reber Jr., Jason Springer and Alexander Young. Class Instructor Brad Wheeler is kneeling at left in the front row. June 2011 GMDSS – Eight individuals finished this course April 29. Those gradu- ating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Ray Adams Jr., Janos Bognar, Harold Borden, Dustin Marks, Hector Ortiz, Oleg Pankratov, Charles Tison and Jesse Willard. Brad Wheeler, class instructor, is at the far right. Seafarers LOG 23 �64746_LOG_X2 5/26/2011 7:09 PM Page 24 Volume 73, Number 6 June 2011 SHBP Awards Scholarships Page 7 SIU Executive VP Augie Tellez (second from left in photo above), Capt. Louis Cavaliere of Keystone (center) and Rich Berkowitz (right) of the Transportation Institute meet with a staffer for Rep. Bill Owens (D-N.Y.). In photo at right, SIU VP West Coast Nick Marrone (left) is pictured with Rep. Elijah Cummings (D-Md.). Second Maritime Sail-In a Success Event Carries Industry’s Message to Washington Individuals from all segments of the maritime industry, including SIU officials and rank-and-file members, joined together in Washington, D.C., on May 4 for the second annual Maritime Industry Sail-In at the U.S. Capitol and congressional offices. Nearly 200 representatives from shipping companies, maritime advocacy groups, other maritime labor unions, and naval organizations all took to the Hill for a day of promoting the industry and getting the industry’s message out to lawmakers. SIU Executive Vice President Augie Tellez, Vice President Contracts George Tricker, Vice President Atlantic Coast Joseph Soresi, Vice President West Coast Nick Marrone, Vice President Lakes and Inland Waters Tom Orzechowski, Vice President Government Services Kermett Mangram and Vice President Gulf Coast Dean Corgey all spent the day meeting various members of Congress and their respective staffs, as did SIU From left to right: SIU VP Great Lakes Tom Orzechowski, Bryant Gardner of Winston & Strawn, Appropriations Associate Matthew Kaplan for Rep. Marcy Kaptur (D-Ohio), Capt. Leo Bonser of Intermarine, Jordan Truchan of Patriot SIU VP Government Services Kermett Mangram (right), MM&P Sec.-Treasurer Don Marcus Legislative Director Brian Schoeneman. Seafarer Matt Maynard met with legislators from his home state, West Virginia. For the past two years, the Sail-In has given the maritime industry a chance to have its voice heard by lawmakers on Capitol Hill. This year’s event was especially significant due to the influx of freshman representatives, some of whom know little about the importance of the maritime industry to the country’s economic and national security. Participants in the Sail-In were split into teams, given schedules and a Congressional directory, and were sent on their way to meet with representatives and staffs. SIU officials and other participants met with representatives and senators from both sides of the aisle. Tellez, in a meeting with a staffer for Rep. Bill Owens (D-N.Y.), pointed out that the maritime industry, despite all of its major economic and security contributions to the country, is often little known to outsiders. “The fact is that every conflict this nation has been and will be a part of needs a reliable supply line and we are that supply line,” said Tellez. The Sail-In came at a crucial time for the industry due to the battles over the funding of the federal budget for the 2012 fiscal year. There are several pieces of legislation up for debate that directly affect maritime workers, including provisions for food aid in the federal budget as well as the Harbor Maintenance Tax. In addition to the Sail-In, SIU officials were present at an awards dinner for this year’s Salute to Congress Award, which was given to Rep. Frank LoBiondo (RN.J.). The International Propeller Club of the United States presents the award each year to a member of Congress who has a proven track record of supporting the maritime industry and its workers. Rep. LoBiondo currently serves as chairman of the House Subcommittee on Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation of the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee. In his work as chairman, LoBiondo has pushed ideas that work for the industry and has been a constant advocate. In his acceptance remarks, LoBiondo called on the international community to do more to confront and combat piracy off the Somali coast. “I think the best way to deal with this is before they get on the high seas,” he said. From left to right: Josh Shapiro of Liberty Maritime, Charlie Papavizas of Winston & Strawn, Joe Morgan of the Navy League, Mike Roberts of Crowley, Julia Shemest of Crowley, SIU VP Contracts George Tricker From left to right: Ian Bennitt of SCA, George Kochanowski of Staxxon LLC, Rep. Nydia Velasquez (DN.Y.), Mark Gallagher of MEBA, and SIU VP Atlantic Coast Joseph Soresi SIU VP Gulf Coast Dean Corgey (far left) and other Sail-In participants meet to review the agenda From left to right: Bill Penella of Crowley, Terry Turner of Turner Pollard, Rep. Nick Rahall II (DW.Va.), SIU member Matt Maynard, MEBA President Mike Jewell � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Seafarers Log Issues 2010-2019 Description An account of the resource Volumes LXXII-LXXXI of the Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Seafarers Log Digital Copies Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 2010-2019 Document A resource containing textual data. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre text. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource June 2011 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES SIU MAKES STRONG SHOWING DURING MARITIME DAY EVENTS MEMBERS-ONLY SECTION HIGHLIGHTS NEWEST VERSION OF SIU WEB SITE MARINERS ‘MORE CRITICAL THAN EVER’ FOR U.S. AKER PHILADELPHIA DELIVERS TANKER OVERSEAS TAMPA GEN. MCNABB CITES ‘SUPERB’ EFFORTS OF COMMERCIAL FLEET U.S. NAVY TAKES OVER OPERATION OF ARMY’S HIGH SPEED VESSELS CIVILIAN-CREWED SHIPS WILL FURTHER ADVANCE U.S. SEALIFT CAPABILITIES MTD, ITF BACK COAST GUARD REPORT ON DEEPWATER HORIZON SIU PRESIDENT URGES GRASSROOTS ACTION IN 2012 TO NOVELTY WORKERS UNION TIMES ARE TOUGH FOR TWIC PROGRAM NEW YORK TIMES OP-ED SLAMS RUNAWAY FLAGS U.S. REP. HOYER BRINGS BACK ‘MAKE IT IN AMERICA’ PLAN CIVMARS REMAIN TRUE TO FORM, ANSWER CALL TO DUTY DURING OPERATION TOMODACHI U.S. MARITIME UNIONS DONATE TO AJSU U.S. NAVY NAMES NEXT T-AKE FOR CESAR CHAVEZ CIVMARS HELP RESCUE 5 NEAR SOLOMON ISLANDS UNION-CREWED USNS SFT. WILLIAM R. BUTTON SUPPORTS MILITARY EXERCISE CEREMONIES HONOR U.S. MERCHANT MARINE’S VALIANT HISTORY THE ED WOODS STORY – A TEENAGER IN WORLD WAR II SECOND MARITIME SAIL-IN A SUCCESS Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Seafarers Log Digital Copies Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 06/01/2011 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Newsprint Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context Vol. 73, No. 6 2011 Periodicals Seafarers Log http://www.seafarerslog.org/archives/files/original/ae18fa6211357c847492c707f3ee8139.pdf 041f0198cf6a91107fad1d4ee91bcd3a PDF Text Text 65262_Seafarers_X2:JUNE 2011 6/27/2011 7:02 PM Page 1 Volume 73, Number 7 July 2011 SIU-Crewed Pacific Tracker Supports Crucial Missile Defense Agency Test SIU members sailing aboard the Pacific Tracker (photo below at bottom) recently backed a vital, successful test conducted by the U.S. Missile Defense Agency (MDA). Seafarers on board the Interocean American Shipping-operated vessel during the mission included John Steeber (left in photo immediately below) and Patrick Devlin (right). Pages 12-13. NOAA Crews Ratify Contract Following nearly two years of negotiations, a new contract is in place covering ships operating under the U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). The five-year pact covers members of the SIU Government Services Division who sail aboard NOAA’s 19 vessels, including the Bell Shimada (below). Pictured at the signing in early May, which took place at NOAA facilities in Norfolk, Va., (from left in photo above) are: NOAA Administrative Officer Jamie Johnson, NOAA Labor and Employee Relations Advisor Cecilia Collins, NOAA Director of Marine Operations Capt. (Rear Adm. Select) Michael S. Devany, NOAA Labor Relations Specialist Dale North, SIU VP Government Services Kermett Mangram, NOAA Cmdr. Karl Mangels, SIU Government Services Representative Kate Hunt and NOAA Program Specialist Sharon Wilgus. Members approved the contract earlier this year. Page 4. State Department Hosts Maritime Security Forum Page 5 Seafarers-Affiliated AMO Opens New HQ The American Maritime Officers (AMO), an affiliate of the Seafarers International Union of North America, dedicated the union’s new headquarters building (above right) June 7 in Dania Beach, Fla. SIU President Michael Sacco (second from left in group photo) was a guest speaker at the ceremonial opening. Also on hand to help mark the occasion were (from left) AMO Secretary-Treasurer Jose Leonard, U.S. Somali Piracy News Pages 2, 5 Maritime Administrator David Matsuda, U.S. Rep. Allen West (R-Fla.), MSC Commander Rear Adm. Mark Buzby, AMO National President Tom Bethel, Dania Beach City Commissioner Walter Duke, Seventh District Coast Guard Commander Rear Adm. William Baumgartner and AMO Plans Co-Chairman Anthony Naccarato. Page 6. Penn Maritime Pact Approved Page 2 Mariners Saluted on ‘Forever’ Stamps Page 8 �65262_Seafarers_X:JUNE 2011 6/24/2011 8:47 PM Page 2 President’s Report Piracy, Continued More than two years have passed since the infamous attempted takeover by pirates of the SIU-crewed Maersk Alabama. Piracy wasn’t a new problem when the Alabama saga unfolded in April 2009, but for many people outside the maritime industry, it marked the first time they truly became aware of the crisis. Much has changed since then, but Somali piracy itself arguably remains the top issue facing our industry around the globe. Attacks are increasing in a huge region that includes parts of the Red Sea, Indian Ocean and Gulf of Aden. Violence against mariners aboard captured vessels also is growing. Per-ship ransom amounts are up. This month’s LOG includes several articles about piracy, and I encourage the membership to read them. We post regular updates about this topic on our web Michael Sacco site as well, in addition to providing news at the monthly membership meetings. For many years, the SIU has been very active in the battle to protect not only our own Seafarers but mariners around the world. To that end, we continue to work with other maritime unions, the U.S. Coast Guard, the State Department, the International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF) and others. And we have made some progress beyond simply getting people to listen. Despite the increase in the number of attacks, fewer vessels are being boarded and captured. Many if not most vessels sailing in the high-risk areas successfully have implemented anti-piracy measures. Some carry armed security details, whether hired from the private sector or (depending on the cargo) provided by the military. It is very much worth noting that no ship carrying armed personnel has been captured. Our position hasn’t changed from day one: We believe that the respective flag states should provide shipboard security. In fact, we also assert that flag states immediately should adopt legislation that enables each nation to prosecute and, if appropriate, imprison pirates. On that note, I should add that the flag-of-convenience (FOC) or runaway-flag registries aren’t lifting a finger to help fight this battle. They remind me of employees in so-called right-to-work states who enjoy the benefits of a union contract but refuse to do their fair share by paying union dues. In this case, the runaway-flag ships are protected as much as possible by the traditional maritime states, but the FOC countries themselves aren’t helping. It’s time for that to change. Solving this problem is going to require continued and expanded multinational efforts, and it will continue to involve public and private resources. It’s a complex situation, and the pirates – better described as waterborne terrorists, really – make it more so by rapidly adapting to many of the industry’s counter-measures. The ITF put it succinctly last month in a Seafarers’ Section resolution that read in part: “No seafarers should have to risk their lives for their job.” That’s really the bottom line, and it underscores the importance of governments not losing sight of the fact that the victims of these attacks are mariners and their families – real people, not just statistics on a chart somewhere. As U.S. Coast Guard Rear Adm. Kevin Cook put it last month at a maritime security forum hosted by the State Department, “When we talk about vessels being hijacked, we’re really talking about the crews.” To help reinforce that point, the Save Our Seafarers campaign – extensively promoted here, on the SIU web site and at our hiring halls – is spotlighting individual mariners who’ve been attacked by pirates. Hopefully, their stories will spur more action to end this scourge, as will a recent report by a group named Oceans Beyond Piracy. Among other startling insights, the report stated that in 2010, more than 1,000 mariners were taken hostage by pirates (see story on page 5). I’ve cited this comparison before, but it remains the best one I’ve read or heard when it comes to putting this battle into perspective: Imagine a report documenting the capture of 1,000 airline passengers and flight-crew personnel. Would the world let that happen? Quite obviously, the answer is no, and the immediate conclusion should be that mariners deserve the same protections as any other workers. The Ready Reserve Force ship Cape May (above) was one of many SIU-crewed vessels honored at the annual Chamber of Shipping of America luncheon. Union-Contracted Companies Recognized for Safe Operations Numerous SIU-contacted companies garnered well-earned recognition at this year’s Chamber of Shipping of America (CSA) safety awards luncheon, which took place June 2 in New Orleans. As in past years, some awards were given for specific incidents while others were presented for prolonged operations (at least two years) without a mariner involved in a lost-time injury. Nearly 200 individuals representing more than 70 companies and crews attended the 53rd annual program. Joseph Cox, CSA president, stated, “We have been holding these annual award ceremonies since 1958. For that initial year, we honored six vessels having a total of 12 years’ operation with no lost-time incidents. This year, we gave awards to 1,288 vessels that operated 7,284 years without a lost-time incident. This extraordinary record is directly attributable to the professionalism of our seafarers and the dedication of shore-based company personnel to safe operation.” He added, “CSA’s involvement in safety is longstanding. We continue to represent the industry, domestically and internationally, on safety issues encompassing every facet of ship operations. It is, therefore, only fitting that an industry so focused on safety, publicly recognizes the skills and dedication of the women and men who are responsible for actions in keeping with the highest traditions of the sea – aid to those in peril.” The CSA’s members include 33 U.S.-based companies (many of them SIU-contracted) that own, operate or charter oceangoing tankers, containerships, and other merchant vessels engaged in both the domestic and international trades. The association also represents other entities that maintain a commercial interest in the operation of such oceangoing vessels. Among the companies recognized in June were Alaska Tanker Company, Crescent Towing, Crowley Marine Services, Crowley Maritime Corporation, Crowley Petroleum Services, Crowley Puerto Rico Services, Crowley Technical Management, E.N. Bisso and Son., Farrell Lines, American Overseas CSA President Joseph Cox credits mariners and shore-side support personnel for promoting safety. (Photo courtesy of Barry Champagne Photography) Marine, Higman Barge Lines, Horizon Lines, Interocean American Shipping, Keystone Shipping, Maersk Line, Limited, Marine Transport Lines, Moran Towing, Ocean Shipholdings, and OSG Ship Management. Also earning safety awards were Sea Star Line, Seabulk Tankers, Seabulk Towing, Totem Ocean Trailer Express, USS Vessel Management, and the U.S. Maritime Administration. Each received an honor known as the Jones F. Devlin Award. CSA Citations of Merit were presented to the SIU-crewed Horizon Producer (Horizon Lines) and the Overseas Maremar (OSG), while a letter of commendation went to the Seafarers-crewed Cape May (Ocean Shipholdings). Penn Maritime Contract Approved Volume 73, Number 7 July 2011 The SIU online: www.seafarers.org The Seafarers LOG (ISSN 1086-4636) is published monthly by the Seafarers International Union; Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU, AFLCIO; 5201 Auth Way; Camp Springs, MD 20746. Telephone (301) 899-0675. Periodicals postage paid at Southern Maryland 20790-9998. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to the Seafarers LOG, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. Communications Director, Jordan Biscardo; Managing Editor/Production, Jim Guthrie; Assistant Editor, Paddy Lehane; Photographer, Mike Hickey; Administrative Support, Misty Dobry. Copyright © 2011 Seafarers International Union, AGLIWD. All Rights Reserved. The Seafarers International Union engaged an environmentally friendly printer for the production of this newspaper. Reversed to White Reversed to White 2 Seafarers LOG Seafarers recently approved a new contract with Penn Maritime by a large margin. The contract, which is valid until 2015, maintains benefits for the mariners, boosts wages and features other gains. More than 100 SIU members are covered by the new agreement. “I’m pleased with the negotiations and am very happy to have been a part of them,” said SIU Vice President Atlantic Coast Joseph Soresi, who led the SIU negotiating committee. “Everyone involved was cordial and worked very hard for a mutually beneficial contract. I believe that’s what we came up with.” The contract maintains Core Plus health benefits, which is the premiere health care plan available through the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan. The agreement also guarantees pay raises over the next four years, as well as an increase in longevity pay for longtime employees. The pact also stipulates an increase in food and gear allowances, and calls for the addition of step-children to death-in-the-family considerations. In addition to Soresi, other members of the SIU delegation included Brooklyn hall Patrolman Mark von Siegel, Engineer Jeff Ryzda, Mate John Harvard, and AB Teddy Crockett. On the company side, Penn Maritime was represented by Jim Sweeney and Tom Elkowitz. With the economic troubles facing the nation, and particularly working people, some entered the negoti- ations with a glass-half-empty mentality. However, due to strong leadership from the SIU and the consistently excellent work provided by the SIU members aboard Penn’s vessels, the negotiations resulted in welcome progress. “I’ve been in the union for 31 years and this is the ninth contract I’ve negotiated,” said Crockett. “This one was different and it’s all due to the economy. This is an important contract. We were prepared for anything, but we ended up with some big gains.” Crockett chocks up the beneficial contract to the hard work of the union’s officials, including Soresi and President Michael Sacco, as well as the support and hard work from others involved with the negotiations. The gains that the committee secured on behalf of their fellow mariners have the future looking a bit brighter for Crockett and other Penn Maritime workers. “I feel good about the future,” said Crockett. “We’re in a bit of a quandary now, with the economy and the wars and all. Fortunately, we’ve got a great union. We’re faring a lot better than most these days. Everybody’s making some sacrifices, but we’ve got outstanding leadership. I can’t stress that enough.” Penn Maritime operates 16 tugs and 18 doublehulled heated ocean tank barges. The company is the largest coastal transporter of heated asphalt products. July 2011 �65262_Seafarers_X:JUNE 2011 6/24/2011 9:35 PM Page 3 Congressmen Express Strong Support for Jones Act Hearing Examines Ways to Create more Jobs in U.S. Maritime Industry Members of the House Subcommittee on Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation recently described the Jones Act – one of America’s most important maritime laws – as critical to the national, economic and homeland security needs of the United States. SIU Executive Vice President Augie Tellez testified at the subcommittee’s June 14 hearing, most of which focused on America’s maritime transportation system (MTS) and its capacity to create jobs, facilitate commerce and help the U.S. maintain and increase its exports. In addition to the MTS, panelists and members of the subcommittee discussed other issues that directly involve the maritime industry, including several programs that have come under attack in recent months. Chairman Frank LoBiondo (RN.J.), after pointing out that the Jones Act requires that cargo moving between domestic ports be carried aboard ships that are crewed, flagged, owned and built American, stated the law is “something I strongly support. I hear rumors from time to time about ideas or suggestions that can be advanced, either legislatively or otherwise, that would dramatically change or weaken the Jones Act. I can assure you that as chair of this committee, I’ll do everything in my power not to allow that to happen. “As we focus our efforts on ways to maximize the (maritime transportation) system’s potential, it is imperative that the policies we develop promote the transportation of goods on American ships, built in American shipyards, and operated by American mariners,” LoBiondo continued. In addition to the effects that the Jones Act and other pro-maritime legislation have on the national economy, certain state-level economies would be in dire straits without the protections afforded to American workers and companies. “I just want to note, for the record, that in Hawaii, Jones Act activities provide 23,000 jobs, just in Hawaii, and approximately $1.1 billion in wages and benefits to Hawaii’s economy,” said U.S. Rep. Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), a member of the subcommittee. “I’m a strong supporter of that act.” U.S. Rep. Chip Cravaack (RMinn.) said that as a retired Navy captain, “I understand the importance of a maritime industry and how important it is to have a U.S.-flag, U.S.-crewed vessel ensuring that when we do have to go over the horizon we have the proper assets to do it; with the proper people that have been trained in a way that we need to make sure they’ll be able to carry the flag when rubber starts hitting the road. So I highly support U.S.-flag vessels and U.S. Jones Act, as well.” Panelist Mike Roberts, who is a senior vice president of SIU-contracted Crowley, thanked the committee for its support of the Jones Act and mentioned its paramount importance to his company. “This fundamental maritime law provides important national security, homeland security and economic security benefits to our nation,” Roberts stated. “This subcommittee’s support for the Jones Act is greatly appreciated.” In addition to Tellez and Roberts, others testifying before the subcommittee were Maritime Administrator David Matsuda, Chamber of Shipping of America President and CEO Joseph Cox, and John Mohr, executive director of the Port of Everett, Wash. Each of the men on the panel gave brief summaries of their submitted remarks and answered questions by members of Congress on the maritime industry and the important role it plays in our economic and national security. The MTS is made up of 25,000 miles of channels, the Great Lakes, and over 3,700 terminals around the country. In addition, the MTS includes nearly 175,000 miles of railways, more than 45,000 miles of interstate highways, and over 1,400 intermodal connections. Due to its reach, the MTS is a key aspect of the nation’s economy. “The commerce which moves on the MTS fuels the economy,” said Rep. LoBiondo. “Approximately 99 percent of the volume of overseas trade enters or leaves the country by water. The movement of cargo and associated activities add more than $649 billion annually to U.S. gross domestic product, sustains more than 13 million jobs and contributes over $212 billion in annual federal state local taxes. Domestic shipping alone is responsible for 500,000 American jobs and $100 billion in annual economic output.” U.S. Rep. Rick Larsen (DWash.), ranking member of the subcommittee, looked to the future to provide solid justification for fully funding the MTS today. Larsen’s district, which encompasses some of the most important ports on the West Coast, has an understandable interest in ensuring that the MTS and other programs are fully funded and defended by lawmakers. “The overarching reality is that our economic future and the MTS are closely intertwined,” said Larsen. “To think that our economy can fully recover and grow if we fail to invest in this critical infrastructure is both unrealistic and shortsighted. We must summon the will to invest in the system or we risk choking off the very conduit that makes our economy hum, that drives job creation, and that ensures the U.S. market remains preeminent in global trade.” Matsuda emphasized the economic importance of the MTS and touted its proven job-producing capabilities. “The MTS accommodates 78 percent of U.S. exports and imports by weight and 48 percent by value,” Matsuda told the subcommittee. “In addition to supporting the needs of Chairman Frank LoBiondo (R.-N.J.) Augie Tellez SIU Exec. VP Ranking Member Rick Larsen (D-Wash.) U.S. Rep. Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii) U.S. Rep. Chip Cravaack (R-Minn.) U.S. exporters and industry, it is an important source of employment in its own right. The MTS supports millions of American jobs, facilitates trade, and moves people and goods in a safe, cost-effective, and energy-efficient manner.” While there have been calls both within and outside of the industry for more laws that will enable the U.S. Merchant Marine to continue to thrive, there are several long-standing laws that need sustained implementation. Tellez encouraged the committee members to continue enforcing laws that are already on the books, including the Jones Act, cargo preference laws and the U.S. Maritime Security Program (MSP). Enforcing existing enacted laws would strengthen the industry and would subsequently strengthen the economy as a whole. “We must ensure that our U.S.flag merchant fleet remains strong and viable in the international and domestic trades,” said Tellez. “It is only by defending our existing programs, reducing the regulatory burden on our operators, ensuring the tax system is fair and competitive internationally, seeking opportunities to expand the industry both internationally and domestically and maintaining the key gov- ernment programs that keep the fleet afloat that we will be able to create jobs and increase U.S. exports.” Tellez pointed out that it would stimulate the national economy if more U.S.-produced cargo were shipped on American-flagged, American-crewed vessels. “The U.S. Merchant Marine is effective in that our reliability and performance are second-to-none, particularly when it comes to productivity and safety,” Tellez said. “For too long, we have allowed foreign competitors to undercut the American-flag fleet and our ship operators. This foreign competition is often supported by generous tax regimes, little or no-cost health care, and tax exempt wages for foreign seafarers by a number of foreign governments that make the international playing field far from even.” Another issue that was raised was cargo preference and food aid, both of which are of great importance to maritime industry workers. With budget cuts involving food aid and other cargo financed through the Export-Import Bank, Tellez made it clear to members of the committee that cutting funds for those programs would have disastrous effects on U.S. Merchant Mariners. “When it’s all said and done, the various maritime industry programs are fine, but we must not overlook one other imperative point,” said Tellez. “Namely, our industry’s lifeblood is cargo. Cargo cures practically every ill. That’s what keeps us afloat.” While the present laws have beneficial effects on the U.S. economy and its worker pool, Tellez and others believe that the future is dependent on a stronger Americanflag fleet. “Maritime labor believes that we as a nation have to think and plan long-term, and such planning absolutely must include maintaining a strong American-flag fleet and a reliable pool of U.S. shipboard manpower,” said Tellez. “Ideally, we’ll reach a point where shippers look first for ways to use the U.S. vessels, rather than having to be convinced.” Tellez concluded, “I respectfully urge continued support of the Maritime Security Program, the Jones Act and cargo preference laws, and I further ask that any and all reasonable steps be taken in order to further encourage the maintenance and growth of the American-flag fleet and the U.S. Merchant Marine.” Seafarers-Crewed Hospital Ship Comfort Continues Humanitarian Mission The union-crewed hospital ship USNS Comfort is shown anchored off San Juan del Sur, Nicaragua, on June 17. Manned in the unlicensed slots by members of the SIU Government Services Division, the Comfort at press time was on its fifth country stop during Continuing Promise 2011, a five-month humanitarian assistance mission to the Caribbean, Central and South America that began in April. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Kim Williams) July 2011 Seafarers LOG 3 �65252_Seafarers:JUNE 2011 6/24/2011 8:19 AM Page 4 Mariners Approve New NOAA Contract SIU Members Ratify 5-Year Agreement Covering 19 Ships Following negotiations and related meetings spanning nearly two years, members of the SIU Government Services Division overwhelmingly have approved a new five-year contract covering the 19 vessels in the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) fleet. “It has been a long and time-consuming effort and we are extremely grateful for the patience of the membership and the dedication of the negotiation committee members as we worked through the bargaining process,” stated SIU Vice President Government Services Kermett Mangram. He added that the old contract had not been modified for many years. Negotiations for an updated agreement started in June 2009. “We are confident this new agreement will provide both labor and management with clear guidance and understanding of existing work rules and detail new terms and conditions between the parties,” Mangram said. Among those playing key roles for the union during negotiations and throughout the ratification process were members Tom Sherman, Margret Collins, Herbert Hazwell, Tonya Watson and Dave Fare and officials Mangram, Representative Kate Hunt and SIU Tacoma Port Agent Joe Vincenzo. Hunt on the East Coast and Vincenzo on the West Coast visited each of the 16 active NOAA ships throughout March; they explained key elements of the new pact and oversaw the voting procedure. The pact officially was executed by the union and NOAA on SIU VP Government Services Kermett Mangram (left) and Capt. (Rear Adm. select) Michael Devany, NOAA director of Marine Operations, chat following the contract signing. Squadron One Commander Praises Merchant Mariners The new commander of the U.S. Military Sealift Command’s Prepositioning Ship Squadron One recently commended the efforts of Seafarers and others associated with the squadron, which consists of four SIU-contracted ships. “The merchant mariners in Bobo, Obregon, Wheat and Sisler, along with the staff, are proud Americans who bring impressive capability to distant shores. They are a winning team, and I am honored to join them,” stated Navy Capt. Ricks W. Polk. Polk relieved Navy Capt. Michael F. Ott June 16 in a ceremony aboard squadron flagship USNS 2ND LT John P. Bobo. The ceremony took place while the Seafarerscrewed Bobo was underway in the Baltic Sea near the coast of Estonia. MPS Squadron One is a forward-deployed group of four government-owned ships: the Bobo (operated by AMSEA), the USNS PFC Eugene A. Obregon (Waterman), the USNS LCPL Roy M. Wheat (Keystone) and the USNS Sisler (Ocean Shipholdings).The squadron strategically prepositions cargo and supplies at sea in the eastern Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean and Baltic seas, enabling rapid delivery to shore where needed, according to MSC. The commander of MPS Squadron One has tactical command and control of all four ships in the squadron and is embarked aboard the Bobo. In addition to the civilian mariners serving aboard the vessels, the squadron staff has approximately a dozen military personnel. Polk, a native of Indianapolis, Ind., was commissioned through the limited duty officer program in 1986. He most recently served as commander, Afloat Training Group Middle Pacific. His previous duty stations afloat include battleship USS New Jersey, frigate USS Jarrett and on the staff of commander, Destroyer Squadron 21. After attending the Air Command and Staff College and the Armed Forces Staff 4 Seafarers LOG The new agreement covers 19 vessels including the Bell Shimada (above). May 5. (Two other NOAA ships have been acquired by the agency but haven’t started sailing, while another is laid up.) Vincenzo pointed out that during the ratification process, 20 additional mariners joined the union – a move he described as “a testament both to their understanding of the value of unionism and the collective bargaining process within the public sector and to their desire to form and do the work of ships’ committees.” He and Hunt both noted that the union relied heavily on private-sector maritime standards contained in the SIU’s Standard Freightship Agreement in drafting the provisions of the new NOAA contract. In addition, the union incorporated many of the ideas and proposals submitted by the crews sailing aboard NOAA vessels. “What the members will discover is not a radically new document, but instead an agreement which provides clearer language and addresses the true nature of the work performed by the NOAA membership,” said Hunt. (She added that because these crews are federal employees, wages and benefits weren’t covered in the negotiations. The mariners enjoy the same wages and benefits as other government workers.) Contract highlights include strengthened standards and jurisdiction language that protects mariners’ positions on the NOAA vessels; clarification on temporary promotions; enhanced training opportunities, including the utilization of the Seafarers-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education; and a simplified grievance and arbitration process. The new agreement also preserves all areas of work recognized in the standard contract as penalty work; adds new language, based on suggestions from members, providing payment when performing stand-by diving duties; boosts safety standards; eliminates outdated work-clothing language and provides reimbursement for safety shoes; and includes a new “special watch” schedule recognizing the true operating nature of many NOAA vessels, especially the fishery ships. Another notable change concerns deck department rules for watchstanders. The union has agreed that an AB assigned to the bridge may be sent below to perform mission-related duties as long as they are paid at the deck utility (DU) rate. If the AB is only receiving the AB(W) rate and is sent below to work, they would continue to receive penalty pay. In accordance with current Coast Guard regulations, the union also agreed that an OS can be assigned as helmsman or lookout, as long as they are fully trained and certified. “We appreciate the efforts of all who participated in this very important project, including the management members of the NOAA negotiating team,” Hunt stated. “They demonstrated great resolve and patience throughout our talks and we appreciate the joint efforts in took to achieve this agreement.” College, Polk assumed command of mine countermeasures ship USS Warrior. He also commanded frigate USS Ingraham. Ashore, Polk has served at Atlantic Undersea Test Evaluation Center Andros Island, Bahamas, and as director of training, executive officer and commanding officer at the Mine Warfare Training Center, Ingleside, Texas. He has also served at the U.S. Naval Academy. Ott’s next assignment is commander of Assault Craft Unit Four in Little Creek, Va. Mariners from the SIU-crewed USNS 2nd Lt. John P. Bobo (pictured last year in Souda Bay, Crete) were among those credited by the new commander of MSC Prepositioning Ship Squadron One. (U.S. Navy photo By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class John Martinez) July 2011 �65262_Seafarers_X4:JUNE 2011 6/28/2011 5:47 PM Page 5 State Dept. Group Examines Maritime Security A collaborative group representing various segments of the maritime industry met June 15 at the U.S. State Department to discuss security concerns facing the commercial and military sectors worldwide. Representatives of the SIU and the Maritime Trades Department, AFL-CIO were among the 100-plus audience members. Sponsors of the day-long event included SIUcontracted companies Maersk Line, Limited (MLL); American Roll-On/Roll-Off Carrier (ARC); and APL Shipping. The group itself is named the Overseas Security Advisory Council’s (OSAC) Maritime Security Work Group, self-described as a partnership among the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Diplomatic Security, OSAC and the U.S. private sector “formed to promote safety and security for American entities with business activities operating in the maritime sector.” More than 5,500 organizations are “constituents” of the parent group, OSAC, including businesses, universities, faith-based groups and others. Among the featured speakers at the midJune gathering were Vice Adm. Mark Harnitchek, deputy commander of the U.S. Transportation Command; Rear Adm. Kevin Cook, U.S. Coast Guard director, prevention policy; Ed Hanley, MLL vice president of labor relations; Patrick Callahan, MLL director of health, safety, security, environment and quality; Fred Finger, ARC vice president and general manager of operations; and Charles Dragonette of the U.S. Navy’s Office of Naval Intelligence. The meeting featured seven individual presentations, a panel discussion and numerous questions from the audience. Piracy proved prominent in many of the talks, but other issues were addressed including port security, container scanning, programs that are vital to the American-flag fleet, social unrest overseas, ter- rorism, and regulatory and procedural issues that apply to threat response. Harnitchek provided an overview of TRANSCOM and cited the “very strong partnership we have with the (U.S.) commercial industry.” He emphasized the fiscal advantages of relying on the commercial sector for sealift and other support, noting “it would cost our government a fortune” to maintain equivalent assets, including shipboard personnel. Harnitchek said he is concerned that reductions in U.S. preference cargo may lead to a dangerous decrease in U.S.-flag tonnage available to support our armed forces. He said government money spent helping maintain U.S. ships “is money well-spent.” He added that in TRANSCOM’s dealings with the private sector, “There is a colossal bond of trust that goes beyond the contract.” Callahan stated that while U.S. and other vessels have improved their respective antipiracy measures, “the root cause is not being addressed.” He said that among many other preventive steps, Maersk has conducted antipiracy exercises with the military, but while those drills have been beneficial there is no apparent long-term solution to the attacks. During the panel discussion, Bobbie Neal, State Department counter-piracy and maritime security officer, described piracy as “becoming more organized and more violent.” Cook pointed out that the U.S. has anywhere from four to seven U.S. ships in the high-risk areas in and near the Indian Ocean, but “combatting piracy is a shared responsibility. We need international participation, and assistance needs to become more compulsory.” He added that U.S.-flag shipowners and operators have done a good job providing feedback and assistance in fighting against piracy. Finger said ARC believes that “arming vessels is the way to go, but it must be done properly and with safeguards.” He said that from a Vice Adm. Mark Harnitchek, deputy commander of TRANSCOM, says “there is a colossal bond of trust that goes beyond the contract” in the agency’s dealings with the commercial U.S. maritime industry. safety standpoint, he worries more about certain port calls than pirate attacks, pointing to a recent stop by an American-flag ship in Karachi, Pakistan, the week Osama bin Laden was killed, as an example. That stop proved uneventful but tense. Hanley said he sees a need for bilateral agreements protecting owners, carriers and See Group, Page 9 Vatican Urges Prompt Response Experts Release New Report To Problems Created by Piracy On ‘Human Cost’ of Piracy The Vatican, the seat of the Roman Catholic Church and its leader Pope Benedict XVI, has not shied away from taking positions on issues dealing with the rights and safety of workers. In late May, the Church continued that trend by bringing much-needed publicity to the dangers facing mariners around the world. The Pontifical Council for the Pastoral Care of Migrants and Itinerants, the Vatican council responsible for carrying out the Pope’s programs dealing with seafarers and others who spend their lives on the move, released a memo calling on the world to pay attention to the threat of piracy. “Recent reports in the media, about the plight of seafarers seized by pirates, have placed the tragic reality of piracy into the spotlight once more,” said the memo. The Apostleship of the Sea, a Pontifical council that deals with maritime issues, noted in a recent meeting that piracy has spiraled out of control and attacks reached an unprecedented peak last year. The council also pointed out that attacks this year show no signs of decreasing in intensity or violence. The Vatican pointed out that while most of the attacks take place in a particular region, the problems created by piracy are shared by the global community. “Even though the majority of attacks were recorded off the coast of Somalia, as a matter of fact, piracy remains a worldwide challenge that requires a global response, as the illusion of easy and immediate money has also attracted the interest of international criminal organizations,” according to the memo. And while much attention has been put on the effect on commerce, the Vatican continued, a smaller amount of attention has been given to the men and women who sail the dangerous seas. “The maritime world has responded by adopting several measures to protect vessels and their cargoes,” said the Vatican. “Unfortunately, little attention is given to the seafarers and particularly to their families during and especially after the hijacking, leaving to the shipping company the responsibility to care for the people involved, according to the July 2011 situations and their nationalities.” In response, the council issued an appeal to various communities in an effort to remember and attempt to alleviate the suffering of hijacked seafarers and their families in times of crisis. The organization’s message in part reads as follows: To the Governments and international organizations, to promptly activate the appropriate channels to safely bring homes the sequestered seafarers and to find solutions to this problem, given that it is necessary to intervene on the real causes of the phenomenon, such as unfairness in the distribution of goods between countries and the exploitation of natural resources. To the ship owners, to adopt preventive measures to ensure the safety not only of the vessels and their cargoes, but also of the seafarers. In the tragic case of a hijacking, to assume an attitude of attention and support for the families of seized people and offer immediate assistance in order to reduce the longterm traumatic effects. To all the hijacked seafarers, not to lose the hope that they will be soon reunited with their loved ones and to remain strong in their faith. To them the Apostleship of the Sea would like to express its complete solidarity. To the families of the hijacked seafarers, not to hesitate to contact the Stella Maris Centers for assistance and support. In these tragic circumstances, these Centers more than ever can be a safe port and a beacon of hope. The seafarers should know that the chaplains and volunteers of the Apostleship of the Sea are at their side to face these long days and months of uncertainty and fear. To the pirates, to cease their criminal activities and recognize the deep pain they are causing to seafarers (and their families) and to treat them with respect and humanity. The Apostleship of the Sea concluded by reiterating its willingness and desire to cooperate with the parties involved to provide whatever support is needed, whether psychological or spiritual, to affected seafarers and their families. Year 2010 Goes Down As One of Most Violent Periods on Record A study sponsored by the Oceans Beyond Piracy Project, a group composed of experts in the maritime field, has brought more attention to the rising incidences of violence against seafarers from around the globe. The report, titled “The Human Cost of Somali Piracy,” was released June 6 at Chatham House in London. The Oceans Beyond Piracy Project revealed many disturbing statistics about piracy in 2010, which is known as one of the most violent on record. During the course of 2010, for example, 4,185 seafarers were attacked with firearms and/or rocket propelled grenades (RPGs); 342 were forced to stave off attacks in reinforced citadels on board. More than 1,000 seafarers were taken hostage by pirates in 2010 alone. Some were used by the pirates as human shields to avoid capture by navies and law enforcement. With these numerous affronts to the security of men and women just trying to do their jobs, the study expresses alarm about the lack of public awareness and concern for the fate of the world’s mariners. The study notes, “The economic cost of piracy is now wellknown, but it makes clear that the extent of the human cost is much less well-known and understood. Thousands of seafarers have been subjected to gunfire, beatings, extended periods of confinement and, in some cases, torture in the Indian Ocean and Gulf of Aden at the hands of their captors.” This lack of public knowledge can be attributed to several factors, including, at times, an absence of reporting in the media and the subsequent undervaluing of the situation’s severity by most people outside of the maritime community. “There is very little reporting of the personal violence against seafarers in the waters off Somalia,” said Kaija Hurlburt, the lead researcher for the study. “We have found strong evidence that over a third of the seafarers that were held in 2010 were abused, and the trend is looking more ominous this year. The lack of reporting prevents the true cost from being understood by the public.” The potentially catastrophic economic implications of continued Somali piracy are well-documented, according to Oceans Beyond Piracy. It’s clear that ransoms, route changes, security teams, and other defensive measures come at a significant price, not only to the ship operators, but to the global economy as well, the organization points out. Some studies estimate that more than 40 percent of the world’s oil travels through pirate-infested waters. The danger to the men and women who sail the Indian Ocean, Gulf of Aden, and other waters where Somali pirates wreak havoc, on the other hand, is comparably unknown. The study serves as a bleak reminder that more than just goods are at stake; the lives of thousands of seafarers are hanging in the balance. As one shipping company executive put it, “Somali piracy has a tendency to be discussed in economic terms, but the real issue is the untold misery and trauma imposed on our colleagues at sea and their relatives by the Somali criminals. We should be very concerned about the lack of concerted action by the global community in dealing forcefully with this problem.” Anyone interested in reading the latest report for themselves my obtain a copy in PDF format by goig on-line and visiting www.oceansbeyondpiracy.org Seafarers LOG 5 �65252_Seafarers:JUNE 2011 6/24/2011 8:19 AM Page 6 On hand to help mark the occasion were (from left) AMO Secretary-Treasurer José Leonard (who oversaw the construction project), SIU President Michael Sacco, U.S. Maritime Administrator David Matsuda, U.S. Rep. Allen West (R-Fla.), MSC Commander Rear Adm. Mark Buzby, AMO National President Tom Bethel, Dania Beach City Commissioner Walter Duke, Seventh District Coast Guard Commander Rear Adm. William Baumgartner and AMO Plans Co-Chairman Anthony Naccarato. The new building is shown directly above. AMO Celebrates New Headquarters Building The Seafarers-affiliated American Maritime Officers (AMO) on June 7 dedicated the union’s new headquarters building in Dania Beach, Fla., with a ceremony featuring military, government, labor and business leaders. Guest speakers included SIU President Michael Sacco; Rear Adm. Mark Buzby, commander, U.S. Military Sealift Command; U.S. Rep. Allen West (R-Fla.); U.S. Maritime Administrator David Matsuda; Seventh Coast Guard District Commander Rear Adm. William Baumgartner; President of AMO Service and Co-Chairman of AMO Plans Anthony Naccarato; and Dania Beach City Commissioner Walter Duke. Sacco recalled an era many years ago when both the SIU and the AMO had headquarters and training facilities in Brooklyn, N.Y. He then stated that when he looks at the new facility in Dania Beach, “I see a tribute to (AMO National President) Tom Bethel’s leadership, and a gorgeous reflection of AMO’s progress and success. This development is going to benefit rank-and-file AMO members for many, many years to come. “Certainly, the whole executive board deserves credit, too,” he added. “You pulled together and worked together, and look what you’ve been able to accomplish.” The SIU president also touched on the outstanding working relationship the Seafarers and AMO have enjoyed for many years. “The relationship remains great to this day, and I’m proud to point out that AMO has been affiliated with the Seafarers International Union of North America for the last seven years,” Sacco stated. Bethel thanked the AMO membership “for guiding our union to this long-overdue milestone. I dedicate this extraordinary building to these extraordinary seagoing men and women.” (The facility’s construction was approved by members in union-wide balloting.) Reporting on the ceremony, AMO described the new, state-of-the-art build- ing as its first true headquarters. It will house several departments including dispatch, member services, accounting and editorial along with union administration. Previously, the union operated from three (and occasionally four) separate locations in Dania Beach. “This building is a much more accurate reflection of what American Maritime Officers is as a professional organization of singular stature,” Bethel added. “Ours is the nation’s largest and strongest union of merchant marine officers, and this building is a far more fitting symbol of the excellence identified so closely and so commonly with American Maritime Officers.” Mariners Honored Across U.S. Seafarers and SIU officials recently took part in several National Maritime Day ceremonies, beginning with the annual events hosted in Washington, D.C., on May 19. Those ceremonies were covered in the June edition of the LOG; pictured here are some of the other participants at memorials in (respectively) Virginia, Texas and California. NORFOLK, VA. – A number of Seafarers joined hundreds of fellow CALISTOGA, CALIF. – SIU Asst. VP Government Services Chet Wheeler (left in photo above, with U.S. Rep. Mike Thompson, D-Calif.) was a guest speaker at a Memorial Day remembrance that included tributes to the U.S. Merchant Marine. Seafarers are highlighted by one of the monuments (photo at immediate right) at Logvy Park, where the event took place May 30. SAN FRANCISCO, CALIF. – The Liberty ship SS Jeremiah O’Brien hosted its traditional memori- al on Maritime Day itself, May 22. SIU VP West Coast Nick Marrone (left in photo above, with MFOW VP Bill O’Brien) helped honor those mariners who made the ultimate sacrifice. Some 1,235 SIU members gave their lives in World War II, a conflict that often is the focal point of National Maritime Day ceremonies. 6 Seafarers LOG attendees May 20 as MSC Commander Rear Adm. Mark Buzby delivered the keynote address. Several SIU members were featured in a video presentation titled “It’s More than a Job: Every Voyage has a Purpose,” in which they shared their experiences and views about the merchant marine’s value to U.S. national and economic security. Pictured from left to right are (back row) Recertified Steward Army Joe Leake, SIU Hawsepiper/3rd Asst. Engineer Brad Neathery, SIU Port Agent Georg Kenny and his wife, Maureen Kenny (former SIU chief cook). Brad’s children, Alyssa and Michael, are in front. Army Joe and Brad were featured in the video, as were Seafarers AB David Freeman, Recertified Bosun Robert Lindsay and Steward/Baker Angela Robinson. GALVESTON, TEXAS – With the SIU-crewed tug Lexie M (G&H Towing) in the background at Pier 22, SIU VP Gulf Coast Dean Corgey and others delivered remarks. Among those on hand May 20 were SIU Port Agent Mike Russo (second from right), AMO National Executive Board member Dave Weathers (right) and MEBA Houston Branch Agent Dana Woodruff (third from right). July 2011 �65252_Seafarers:JUNE 2011 6/24/2011 8:19 AM Page 7 CONTINUED SUPPORT FOR MARITIME – SIU Exec. VP Augie Tellez (left) in late May attended a reception for U.S. Rep. Peter King (R-N.Y.) (center) in Washington, D.C. The gathering was hosted by the Marine Engineers’ Beneficial Association; MEBA Chief of Staff Bill Doyle is at right. Rep. King, chairman of the House Homeland Security Committee, expressed his ongoing support for maritime labor, the Jones Act and the U.S. Maritime Security Program. REMEMBERING BROTHER ESCOTO – Mariners aboard the Sealand Meteor on June 5 conducted a memorial service for retiree Antonio Escoto, who passed away in late April at age 73. The former engine department member’s ashes were scattered at sea in position 49-50N/014-02W, noted Capt. Peter J. Parise, the vessel’s master. Some of the attendees are pictured above. The service included prayers and a reading of Psalm 23 by the captain. Recertified Bosun Stephen Kastel and Electrician Christopher Earhart represented the SIU during the remembrance. At Sea & Ashore With the SIU HONORING MARINERS’ SERVICE – A new veterans’ memor- ial has been built in Cedar Park, Texas (photos at left and directly above), which specifically honors members of the U.S. Merchant Marine, as well as members of the armed forces, for their service and dedication to the nation during times of war. The ribbon-cutting ceremony took place on Memorial Day 2011. The completed project, including a large monument, is expected to be revealed and dedicated in a ceremony this November. More information is available at the web site www.cpvetmemorial.org. SOLIDARITY IN D.C. – Seafarers participated in a rally June 7 in Washington, D.C., backing National Nurses United (photos above and below). Prior to the demonstration, AFL-CIO President Richard Trumka told the nurses, “Together, we’re going to build up our working families and return America to prosperity the only way it’s ever been done–by working people standing shoulder-to-shoulder and fighting for what’s right, and we won’t be quiet until we win!” More than 1,000 union members and other supporters participated in the rally. The NNU is proposing a “Main Street Contract for the American People” which the union describes as “a program for rebuilding American communities with jobs, health care, education, and other urgent needs, funded through a fair tax policy targeted at those on Wall Street who created the economic crisis.” July 2011 PRESENTATIONS IN OAKLAND – Patrolman Nick Marrone II recently presented SA Mahr Mused (right in photo above) with his full-seniority B-book at the union hall in Oakland, Calif. Mused’s most recent vessel was the USNS 1st LT Jack Lummus. In the other photo, Marrone greets AB Joseph Barnes, who received his A-book last year. FULL BOOK IN HOUSTON – Port Agent Mike Russo (right) congratulates AB Joe Zavala, who recently received his full union book at the union hall in Houston. Seafarers LOG 7 �65252_Seafarers:JUNE 2011 6/24/2011 8:19 AM Page 8 New Stamps Honor U.S. Merchant Mariners Creations Highlight Four Vessels That Helped Mark Mariner History The U.S. Postal Service will salute the U.S. Merchant Marine (USMM) July 28 by issuing a set of four forever stamps during a dedication ceremony at the United Sates Merchant Marine Academy in Kings Point, N.Y. The dedication will take place at 11:30 a.m., at the academy campus’ Ackerman Auditorium, which is located at 300 Steamboat Rd. The event will be free and open to the public. Designed to honor the USMM throughout its rich history, the four stamps will feature four vessel types which historically have been used by merchant mariners in the service of their country: ■ A clipper ship modeled after the Sovereign of the Seas, launched in 1852; ■ An auxiliary steamship, based on the ships of the Collins Line; ■ A World War II Liberty Ship; and ■ A container ship, based on Seafarerscontracted Matson Line’s R.J. Pfeiffer. Illustrator Dennis Lyall of Norwalk, Conn., created the stamps under the art direction of Phil Jordan of Falls Church, Va. The following history on the four vessel types depicted on the stamps was provided by the U.S. Postal Service. Clipper Ships The clipper ship, noted maritime historian Benjamin Labaree, was “a unique American contribution to the glory of seafaring.” Hundreds of “Yankee” clippers, noted for their streamlined shape and majestic cloud of square-rigged sails, were built from the 1840s through the 1850s. Their heyday arrived with the California Gold Rush of 1849, which hastened the need for faster sailing ships to take prospectors and supplies out West. In 1851, the fastest of the clipper ships, the Flying Cloud, sailed the 13,000-plus miles from New York around Cape Horn to San Francisco in a record 89 days. Clippers also boosted the trade in tea, bringing it fresh from China to England and America. Clipper ships eventually lost their dominance to the more dependable steamship, which had greater cargo capacity and could sail on regular schedules. But during the time they “flashed their splendor around the world,” as Samuel Eliot Morison has written, clippers embodied the poetry of the seas. Auxiliary Steamships In the mid-nineteenth century, steampowered ships competed with clipper and other sailing ships for transatlantic mail and passenger service. In America the most magnificent of these were the four large wooden-hulled, sidewheel steamships—the Atlantic, Baltic, Pacific, and Arctic—that were built by New York entrepreneur Edward K. Collins in the 1840s. Like many steamships of the time, they included back-up or auxiliary sailing rigs to supplement their powerful engines. The elegant, 280-foot ships of the “Collins Line”—the ocean liners of their day—were notable for both speed and cargo-carrying capacity. They provided service between New York and Liverpool in the 1850s and set numerous transatlantic speed records before rising costs helped bring an end to their business. Liberty Ships During World War I, the United States learned how to mass-produce merchant ships. But the nation remained without a settled policy for maintaining a modern merchant marine to meet its economic and defense needs until 1936, when legislation established the U.S. Maritime Commission and empowered the U.S. Merchant Marine to serve as a naval auxiliary unit. The Commission immediately began increasing the size of the country’s merchant fleet and shortly before America’s entry into World War II ordered the production of plain but sturdy cargo vessels called Liberty ships. Over the next four years, the United States produced more than 2,700 Liberty ships – “the most impressive single page in the history of the American shipbuilding industry,” according to historian Allan Nevins. Liberty ships served in all theaters of war and sustained the Allied forces with a steady supply of food and war materiel. These ships were manned by members of the U.S. Merchant Marine, including thousands of SIU members, whose sacrifices, though less heralded than those of U.S. Navy crewmen, were no less critical to the war effort. our local stores. “In 2006 alone,” according to a maritime history exhibit at the Smithsonian Institution, “about 18 million containers stuffed with cargoes of all sorts were sent on more than 200 million trips by sea, rail, and road to places around the world.” Container ships were pioneered in the 1950s by Malcolm McLean, a trucking operator from North Carolina. McLean’s idea was to eliminate multiple handling costs by standardizing the shape of a container so that it could be easily moved between different modes of transportation: truck, rail, and ship. Intermodal transportation took hold and created efficiencies that transformed the global economy. By the end of the twentieth century, container ships carried nearly all of the world’s manufactured goods and exemplified the modern merchant marine. Container Ships Without the container ship the global economy as we know it would be impossible. These ships, each loaded with thousands of containers measuring either 20 or 40 feet in length, carry virtually all the products and materials that end up in MFOW Official Salutes Work Of SIU Stewards Longtime Union Rep Sheehan Retires Distinguished Career Comes To End After Nearly 50 Years After 47 years of service to the SIU, its members, and the port of New York, Jack Sheehan announced his retirement this June. Sheehan served the SIU in various capacities over nearly five decades, most recently as patrolman for the Brooklyn hall. “I have known Jack all my working career and I’ve never met a more dedicated individual to this membership,” said SIU Vice President Atlantic Coast Joseph Soresi. “I wish him the best in his future endeavors.” Joining Sheehan (second from left) at the Brooklyn hall to celebrate his career are (from left) Seafarer John Natoli, VP Atlantic Coast Joseph Soresi and Seafarer Eddie Vasquez. 8 Seafarers LOG Sheehan was hired in 1964 as a claims supervisor in New York. In 1980, he transferred to the manpower office, also in the New York hall. Two years later, he served as a representative for the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan (then named the Seafarers Welfare Plan). He became a union representative in 1985. In 1991, Sheehan was called upon to serve as the SIU safety director in New York, a position he filled for nearly 17 years. During his many years of service, Sheehan has seen the industry evolve and has assisted multiple generations of Seafarers with their needs. Sheehan’s contributions and unwavering devotion to his union and its members has made a lasting impact on the union’s leadership and rank-and-file members alike. Port Agent Robert Selzer, himself an SIU member and employee for 47 years, spent most of his career working alongside Sheehan in the Brooklyn hall. “I worked with Jack Sheehan for the past 47 years,” said Selzer. “Not only was he my colleague, but he was a friend as well. Jack is a person of integrity and ability in his work.” Selzer, too, commends Sheehan for his devotion to the union and his hard work on behalf of the members. “I always notice and admired the fact that Jack truly cared about the members he represented,” Selzer continued. “I wish him a happy retirement.” SIU Government Services Division Representative Kate Hunt expressed similar sentiments. “Jack was a pleasure to work with every day,” Hunt said. “He’s a real gentleman and is very well-respected by the SIU membership. He will be greatly missed in the Port of New York. He’s a good Irishman and a great shipmate.” When asked to reflect on nearly five decades of working for the union, Sheehan remained true to his reputation as an SIU devotee through-and-through. “It was my pleasure to work at the SIU and with the membership,” said Sheehan. “Through the years I met some really great people. I will miss all of them.” Bill O’Brien, vice president of the Seafarers-affiliated Marine Firemen, Oilers, Watertenders and Wipers Association (MFOW), recently saluted the work of SIU steward department personnel. In a late-May email to stewards aboard SIU Pacific District vessels, O’Brien wrote, “The Seafarer stewards and cooks are honest, hard-working, dedicated, well-trained and talented individuals. They work long hours under adverse conditions to prepare healthy and well-balanced and delicious meals. They strive to maintain a safe, clean and healthy environment for their shipmates, and they never complain.” He added, “Your efforts are vital to the success of every voyage on every ship. I believe that in my heart.” O’Brien was following up on a very brief, less flattering comment he’d written earlier this year as part of an annual report published in the MFOW newspaper. SIU Vice President West Coast Nick Marrone said, “I’m sure at one time or another, everyone has said or written something that simply didn’t come out as intended. In this case, Bill quickly and sincerely reached out to our steward department personnel to set the record straight, and I think he deserves credit for doing so.” July 2011 �65252_Seafarers:JUNE 2011 6/24/2011 8:19 AM Page 9 Gathering at the union hall are (from left) AB Victor Kistanov, Paul Hall Center VP Don Nolan, AB Slavi Zahariev (back), SA Rossitza Zahariev, Exec. VP Augie Tellez, Steward/Baker Rocel Alvarez, Recertified Bosun Burkley Cooper, QMED Rudy Miller, AB Franklin Estupinan, OMU Rafael Comesana, President Michael Sacco, AB Eugenio Lopez and Port Agent Kris Hopkins. Pictured from left are (front row) SA Marvin Davis, OS Marques Johnson, Paul Hall Center VP Don Nolan, SIU President Michael Sacco, (back) Chief Cook Kenneth Kelly, OMU Charles Searfass, OS Richard Swirtz, Recertified Bosun Joe Caruso and AB William Yurick. HQ Officials, School VP Meet Seafarers in Florida SIU President Michael Sacco, Executive Vice President Augie Tellez and Paul Hall Center Vice President Don Nolan recently met with SIU members both at the union hall in Ft. Lauderdale, Fla., and aboard the new OSG tanker Overseas Tampa. The informal gatherings took place June 8, one day after the Seafarers-affiliated American Maritime Officers dedicated their new headquarters building in Dania Beach. Although the get-togethers were casual, the officials updated members on contract news, political efforts and shipbuilding issues. As previously reported, the Overseas Tampa was delivered in late April by Aker Philadelphia Shipyard. Thanks to Port Agent Kris Hopkins for providing the photos on this page Sharing a laugh in the crew mess are (from left) Recertified Bosun Joe Caruso, SIU President Michael Sacco and OS Richard Swirtz. The double-hulled tanker Overseas Tampa is one of the newest additions to the SIU-crewed fleet. Chief Cook Kenneth Kelly, President Sacco Seafarers Franklin Estupinan (left) and Rudy Miller (center) hear the latest union news from SIU President Michael Sacco. President Sacco, Recertified Steward George Monseur Pumpman Scott Fuller, President Sacco, Recertified Bosun Joe Caruso, VP Nolan Group Discusses Security Concerns Continued from Page 5 mariners “if crews have to defend themselves overseas. These are our brothers and sisters on board – American citizens.” He also suggested ramping up training in hostage survival techniques and called for “a clear order to disable pirate mother ships.” More than one speaker pointed out that no ship with an armed security team has been overtaken by pirates. Among the other speakers were representatives of the U.S. Maritime Administration; Carnival Corporation; the Coast Guard’s Global Maritime Operational Threat Response Coordination Center; the Government Accountability Office; Holland America; and the Office of Naval Research. July 2011 One of the meeting’s highlights was a panel discussion featuring Coast Guard Rear Adm. Kevin Cook, executives from SIU-contracted companies and others. Seafarers LOG 9 �65252_Seafarers:JUNE 2011 6/24/2011 8:20 AM Page 10 Debunking Myths: Editor’s note: The following item is the final part of an article that ran in the June 2011 edition of the Seafarers LOG. Material contained in the piece was extracted from “In the Public Interest: Debunking the Myths about Government, Government Workers, and Unions,” a publication produced by the New York-based Joseph S. Murphy Institute for Worker Education and Labor Studies and some of its affiliated agencies. MYTH # 3 Public sector unions are too powerful. Public sector unions are the problem. Through political contributions, these unions control federal, state, and local governments and set their agendas. Corrupt union bosses wield enormous power and force politicians to toe their line. Unions are bankrupting our government. REALITY ■ Workers join unions because they want a better life. Like everyone else, they want dignity, fair pay, benefits, and a voice in the workplace. Workers achieve these goals more effectively by joining together than by acting individually. ■ Union leaders are elected by their members. Some are great leaders, some are not. Some are strong and forceful, others not so much. And sometimes there is corruption in the labor movement. The Radical Right likes to characterize all union leaders as union “bosses,” but most are hard working people who make significant sacrifices and devote their lives to fighting for social justice. As long as elections are fair—and the overwhelming majority are—then union leaders are the democratically elected representatives of working people. ■ There is no evidence that unions are bankrupting government. For instance, in Texas, where unionization rates are low, the government is facing a catastrophic deficit. In New York, where unionization rates are high, the deficit is lower. ■ Texas has followed the Radical Right prescription for tax cuts, deregulation, and resistance to unions as a path to economic prosperity and a balanced budget—a strategy that has clearly failed. ■ Unions do make a difference. (LOG editor’s note: Government data consistently shows that union members earn more than unrepresented workers.) ■ Higher union wages are good for all workers. Unions keep wage levels up for everyone. When public sector unions succeed in defending decent wages and benefits for their members, they set a benchmark and help maintain wage and benefit standards for all workers. ■ Public sector unions do have a degree of political power—and that’s good. Union power leads to better jobs, higher wages, a safer workplace, a bigger middle class and a stronger economy. Unions’ political power comes directly from the members through their small, but pooled political contributions and through their direct involvement in the democratic and electoral process. It also comes from communities that rely on—and fight for—public services. ■ Collective bargaining in the public sector is good for workers and for government. Not only do workers win decent wages through collective bargaining, they win fair and consistent work rules and are protected from job discrimination and unsafe working conditions. Collective bargaining also insulates employees from politics and patronage, reducing government corruption. ■ When public sector unions fight to protect their members’ jobs, they are also fighting to protect our communities and vital public services. Unions are the first—and often last—line of defense for public education, health care, Medicare, public safety and other important social needs. ■ At the same time, public sector unions are not as strong as the Radical Right makes 10 Seafarers LOG them out to be; they have fewer bargaining rights than private sector workers. And most don’t have the right to strike. ■ Right wing and employer attacks on unions over the past 30 years have severely weakened unions-especially in the private sector. ■ Employment in state and local government has fallen by 4,000,000 since 2008. And, in the first year of the Obama Administration, government employment has declined by more than 300,000—that is, 300,000 fewer teachers, police officers, firefighters, school bus drivers, etc. Radical Right politicians want more public employee heads on the chopping block and they would like to eliminate public sector unions altogether. ■ It’s not that unions are too powerful; it’s that Corporate America is too powerful. Our nation’s economy is dominated by huge conglomerates with revenues larger than many countries. Yet these corporations exist solely to maximize the profits of the shareholders—and to concentrate wealth and power in the hands of a few who run them. What’s more, most of the companies we consider to be “American” are really global enterprises. They move jobs around the world in search of the lowest wages, shift revenues offshore to avoid paying taxes, and care little about the lives and communities of U.S. workers. They squeeze out family businesses, distort our economic priorities, and wreak havoc on our economy with financial speculation. ■ These companies can shape public policy to serve their interests. With their enormous campaign contributions to candidates from both major parties and their extensive lobbying, they call the shots on most policy issues. ■ Big corporations also have a strangle hold on the major media. They shape how we view the world, what we crave (that is, buy), and who we blame for our social and economic ills. Ownership and control of the media is increasingly concentrated in the hands of a few mega corporations that control most of the TV networks, cable channels, movie studios, newspapers, magazines, and publishing houses. ■ Workers and unions are up against powerful adversaries that have enormous resources (including the media) at their disposal. That’s why attacks on unions have been so effective. A BETTER PLAN Strengthen unions to raise the standards for all workers and provide a counterweight to the interests of corporations and the wealthy. A democratic society needs stronger—not weaker—unions. MYTH # 4 Public pensions are too generous. Pension plans are draining the public coffers and sending our federal, state, and municipal governments into a budgetary tailspin. Working people end up paying taxes to support retirement benefits they only wish the could have. Public employees are retiring in luxury. REALITY ■ Most public sector workers have modest incomes and modest pensions. On average, state and municipal workers earn less than $45,000 per year and when they retire receive a pension of approximately $19,000 per year. The average annual benefit for all public retirees (including federal employees) is $22,780. This hardly affords them a life of luxury. ■ Some reforms clearly need to be made – for example, closing loopholes that allow some workers to spike their final salaries in order to get higher retirement benefits. The Radical Right, however, is using extreme cases to generalize about all public sector workers and arguing for drastic cuts in workers’ pensions and in all areas of gov- Public Sector Union Workers Don’t Deserve ‘Negative Rep’ They Get ernment spending. These cuts would have a devastating impact on workers and communities. ■ Everyone should have enough to live on at the end of a long work life—whether through adequate Social Security benefits or through a pension. The American Dream promises a decent retirement for those who work hard and play by the rules. Pensions not only provide economic security for workers in their later years, they are engines of economic growth, curtail poverty, and help maintain the economic stability of seniors and the communities they live in. ■ Since many public workers are not covered by Social Security, government is not contributing 6.25 percent of their pay into the Social Security fund as private employers would. For these workers, their pension is the only source of retirement income. ■ Taxpayers only pay 14 percent of public workers’ retirement costs. Most pension money comes from worker’s own contributions to the plan and returns on investment. ■ Pension expenses amount to only 3.8 percent of all noncapital spending by state and local governments. ■ Public workers still rely mostly on pension plans (called “defined benefit plans”) that pool investments, are managed by professionals, and spread risks widely over many years. Most private sector plans have either been eliminated, diluted, or changed to 401(k) plans that require participants to make their own investment decisions and bear the risk of bad investments. These 401(k) plans put all the risk and more of the cost onto the backs of individual workers. And they carry fees that can decimate long term returns. Retirees can and do outlive their 401(k) assets. Only onein-five private sector workers are still covered by “defined benefit plans” –and only one-in–eight non-unionized workers have this kind of plan. ■ Now there’s a push to shift public sector pension plans to 401(k) s – or to eliminate them altogether. ■ Pension funds in both the private and public sectors often leave workers in poor financial straits. So does Social Security, with the average retiree receiving only $1,178 a month. ■ The Radical Right is whipping up resentment among private sector workers by exaggerating government workers’ wages and benefits and by encouraging what Wharton Economics Professor Olivia Mitchell calls “pension envy.” This campaign is fostering tensions between workers, between neighbors, and between parents and teachers. The end result is a “race to the bottom” that leaves all workers with little income security. ■ Until the 2008 crash, most public pensions were well funded. But the deep financial downturn of 2008 and 2009—spurred by Wall Street’s recklessness—caused significant losses for pension funds. ■ Most state and local governments have lost between 10 to 20 percent of their rev- enues during the past two or three years. Many of these governments missed payments they were required to make under their collective bargaining agreements (under these agreements, workers gave up part of their salary increases in exchange for promised pension contributions.) Rather than paying into the pension funds as they were supposed to, some of these governments used the money to give tax breaks to special interests. Now they are complaining about having to pay the pension money back and using budget deficits as an excuse to cut pensions permanently. ■ The Radical Right often exaggerates the problems facing public pension funds to build the case for eliminating them altogether. But most of these funds are not at imminent risk of default and have years to recover the value they lost during the recession. ■ Controversy over pension funds also diverts attention from the bonuses and golden parachutes given to the CEOs and Wall Street executives who caused the economic A BETTER PLAN meltdown and budget crisis in the first place. Improve pensions for all workers and restore defined benefit plans as the standard for pensions. Rather than cutting Social Security, improve it so that all retirees can have a decent standard of living. MYTH # 5 Government is too focused on the poor. The government provides services mainly for the poor, which is after all only a small percentage of all Americans. Our tax dollars are going to help everyone but ourselves. The poor are already getting more than they should. REALITY ■ Protecting the poor and poor communities is important—and most industrialized democracies do a better job of it than does the United States. They recognize that providing a safety net is not only the right thing to do, but ensures a stable civil society. Partly because we do so little to help people get back on their feet, poverty in America is both significant and persistent. ■ Only 15 cents of every federal tax dollar goes to helping low income families. Most of our tax dollars go to the military, Social Security, and Medicare (which is mostly for seniors). ■ Cuts in public services will disproportionally affect the most vulnerable—the poor, the elderly, the disabled. Women and people of color—who are more likely poor—are hit the hardest. ■ One way or another, we all depend on services we get from federal, state, and local government: public schools and colleges; Continued on next page July 2011 �65252_Seafarers:JUNE 2011 6/24/2011 8:20 AM Page 11 Report Separates Facts From Fiction About Public Sector Union Workers Continued from Page 10 police and fire protection; mass transportation; roads, highways, and bridges; garbage collection; libraries and parks; health research; national defense and security—not to mention safe food, safe water, and safe buildings. ■ And when the bottom falls out for middle class families, government support provides a critical safety net. ■ At the same time, many of the services the middle class depends on are being defunded. Some services have been eliminated, others are being provided at increased costs. From 1980 to 2010, funding for higher education, for example, has declined as a proportion of the federal budget by 45 percent: it’s no wonder that college tuition has increased so dramatically. During that same period, funding for research and general education as a proportion of the federal budget decreased by 50 percent. ■ It’s not the poor who are getting too much attention from public officials; rather it’s the wealthy and corporate benefactors who finance their political campaigns who do best at the public trough. A BETTER PLAN Government should preserve equal opportunity for all. It should be a “great equalizer” that prevents extreme concentrations of wealth, power and privilege. MYTH #6 Government imposes too many regulations. The government interferes too much in the economy and is strangling private enterprise. Excessive governmental regulation inhibits competition, stifles innovation, impedes start-ups, and kills jobs. There are too many controls on industry and business. REALITY ■ Everyone wants to eliminate outdated or useless rules—and simplify overly complex ones. That’s precisely why the call to deregulate is so popular with the Radical Right and why they can easily score points by ridiculing one or two truly absurd regulations. But rallying people to support a major rollback of government regulations is dangerous. ■ Many industry regulations and regulatory agencies were created during the New Deal to prevent a repeat of the Great Depression. The Reagan administration set off a tidal wave of deregulation aimed at “reducing the role of government” and abolishing any rules that might “impede the market.” The tidal wave continued under both Republican and Democratic administrations, helped along by huge campaign contributions from corporations and the wealthy. ■ One industry that was deregulated was the banking industry. ■ Proponents of deregulation argue that it encourages competition. Initially, it often does. But that usually means a downward spiral for workers and their communities. Deregulated companies compete by laying off workers, reducing wages, taking shortcuts on safety, and eliminating less profitable services. As companies go out of business—or are bought out or merged—the field narrows and a few large companies come to dominate the industry. Free now from government restrictions, these goliaths often find it profitable to collude with their competitors. They raise prices, add fees, and further reduce services to less profitable markets. The airline industry is a case study of this destructive spiral. ■ While scrapping rules that protect consumers has yielded huge profits for companies, it has had a devastating impact on working people and the economy. Financial deregulation led to a reckless gambling spree on Wall Street that has cost millions of people their savings and their homes. An estimated 25 percent of homeowners today are “underwater”—that is, they owe more money on their mortgages than their houses are actually worth. More than six million families have lost their homes to foreclosures since 2007 and an equal number of families are at risk of foreclosure. ■ Once banking rules were gutted, investment bankers were free to sell their complex financial products, which later became known as “toxic assets.” The spread of these bad debts across the globe helped plunge nations into a financial meltdown. The cost to taxpayers in the U.S. was nearly a half trillion dollars. As one analyst put it, “Goldman Sachs, the investment house, sold poison to unwitting customers—financial [products] deliberately designed to fail. Sure enough, they failed, but they also helped poison the entire system.” ■ The “Greed is Good” culture of Wall Street serves a handful of people who make a lot of money—not by producing useful goods or providing important services, but by collecting huge fees for manipulating money in ways that endanger the economy. ■ The Radical Right touts “the magic of the free market,” a market economy that supposedly thrives because it is unfettered by government interference. By interfer- Summary Annual Report for SIU Pacific District Seafarers Medical Center Fund This is a summary of the annual report of the SIU Pacific District Seafarers Medical Center Fund, EIN 94-2430964 for the year ended June 30, 2010. The annual report has been filed with the Department of Labor, as required under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA). Benefits under the plan are provided by the SIU Pacific District Seafarers Medical Center Fund, a trust fund. Basic Financial Statement The value of plan assets, after subtracting liabilities of the plan, was $(124,844) as of June 30, 2010, compared to $(138,607) as of July 1, 2009. During the plan year the plan experienced an increase in its net assets of $13,763. During the plan year, the plan had total income of $549,884, including employer contributions of $538,589, earnings from investments of $51 and other income of $11,244. Plan expenses were $536,121. These expenses included $150,363 in administrative expenses, and $385,558 in benefits paid to participants and beneficiaries. Your Rights to Additional Information You have the right to receive a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, on request. The items listed below are included in that report: ■ An accountant’s report; ■ Financial information and information on payments to service providers; and July 2011 ■ Assets held for investment. To obtain a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, write or call the office of SIU Pacific District Seafarers’ Medical Center Fund, 730 Harrison St., Suite 400, San Francisco, CA 94107, (415) 392-3611. The charge to cover copying costs will be $2.25 for the full annual report, or $.25 per page for any part thereof. You also have the right to receive from the plan administrator, on request and at no charge, a statement of the assets and liabilities of the plan and accompanying notes, or a statement of income and expenses of the plan and accompanying notes, or both. If you request a copy of the full annual report from the plan administrator, these two statements and accompanying notes will be included as part of that report. The charge to cover copying costs given above does not include a charge for the copying of these portions of the report because these portions are furnished without charge. You also have the legally protected right to examine the annual report at the main office of the plan, at 730 Harrison Street, Suite 400, San Francisco, CA 94107, and at the U.S. Department of Labor in Washington, DC or to obtain a copy from the U.S. Department of Labor upon payment of copying costs. Requests to the Department should be addressed to: Public Disclosure Room, N1513, Employee Benefits Security Administration, U.S. Department of Labor, 200 Constitution Avenue, N.W., Washington, DC 20210. ence, they mean regulations that protect consumers, workers, and communities. But most (though not all) proponents of the “free market” were strikingly silent when it came to protecting huge corporations—like Citibank, AIG, and JP Morgan Chase—from market losses during the financial crisis they helped to create. ■ The Radical Right insists that deregulation will increase competition and create jobs. But sweeping deregulation unleashed Wall Street greed that ended up being the biggest job killer since the Great Depression. A BETTER PLAN Re-establish and strengthen government regulations that protect consumers, workers, and the environment from profit hungry corporations. MYTH # 7 Liberal tax and spend policies have created deficits and debts that are too big. Our taxes are too high and our government is sending too much money. Taxes are simply strangling our economy. And our government is nearly bankrupt. Thanks to liberal politicians and their ever-expanding social programs, our nation is in big trouble. REALITY ■ A number of factors have contributed to the nation’s debt and the budget deficit including: the collapse of the financial and housing markets which sparked a recession and caused a loss of jobs and tax revenues; the rising cost of the goods and services that the government purchases and provides; and tax breaks for the wealthy which have reduced government revenues. ■ No one wants to saddle future generations with unmanageable debt. And no one wants to pay more taxes than they have to— especially in this tough economy. But while the Radical Right is quick to denounce the federal debt and trumpet fiscal responsibility, they are happy to add to the nation’s debt by providing tax breaks for the wealthy and tax loopholes for corporations. ■ The Radical Right argues that cutting taxes for the rich means they will spend more of their money—increasing consumption and improving the economy. While middle and lower income families may spend their tax savings on goods and services they need, there is little evidence that the rich will spend the extra money in ways that will boost the economy. The Radical Right also argues that cutting taxes for corporations means they will make more money and hire more people. But Corporate America is just as likely to invest savings abroad and create jobs elsewhere. Radical Right tax policies are outright gifts to the wealthy and to Corporate America that reduce public revenues and exacerbate the financial crisis. ■ But the financial crisis provides the Radical Right with what one conservative columnist called a “golden opportunity”—a chance to undermine unions and defund social programs. In New Jersey, for example, Governor Chris Christie vilified public sector workers—teachers especially—and used the budget deficit as an excuse to both cut programs ad to stop paying money the state owes to the employee pension fund. These strategies are having a devastating impact on middle and lower income workers, their families, and their communities. ■ It’s not simply that government debt and deficits are too big, it’s that the revenues that come into government coffers from corporations and the wealthy are too small. There are plenty of services that government should be providing, but simply can’t because the most privileged in society just aren’t paying their fair share. A BETTER PLAN Increase revenues by returning to a more progressive tax structure—like the one we had before the Radical Right began to dismantle it. Summary Annual Report for SIU Pacific District Supplemental Benefits Fund, Inc. This is a summary of the annual report of the SIU Pacific District Supplemental Benefits Fund, Inc., EIN 94-1431246 for the year ended July 31, 2010. The annual report has been filed with the Employee Benefits Security Administration, as required under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA). Benefits under the Plan are provided by the SIU Pacific District Supplemental Benefits Fund, Inc., a Trust Fund. Basic Financial Statement The value of plan assets, after subtracting liabilities of the plan, was $94,919 as July 31, 2010, compared to $427,754 as of August 1, 2009. During the plan year the plan experienced a decrease in its net assets of $332,835. This decrease includes unrealized appreciation or depreciation in the value of plan assets; that is, the difference between the value of the plan’s assets at the end of the year and the value of the assets at the beginning of the year or the cost of assets acquired during the year. During the plan year, the plan had total income of $7,990,099, which included employer contributions of $7,977,512, realized losses of $6,792 from the sale of assets, and earnings from investments of $19,379. Plan expenses were $8,322,934. These expenses included $425,382 in administrative expenses and $7,897,552 in benefits paid to participants. Your Rights to Additional Information You have the right to receive a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, on request. The items listed below are included in that report: ■ An accountant’s report; ■ Financial information and information on payments to service providers; ■ Assets held for investment; and ■ Transactions in excess of 5% of plan assets. To obtain a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, write or call the office of SIU Pacific District Supplemental Benefits Fund, Inc., at 730 Harrison Street, Suite 400, San Francisco, CA 94107, telephone number (415) 764-4990. The charge to cover copying costs will be $4.00 for the full annual report, or $0.25 per page for any part thereof. You also have the right to receive from the plan administrator, on request and at no charge, a statement of the assets and liabilities of the plan and accompanying notes, or a statement of income and expenses of the plan and accompanying notes, or both. If you request a copy of the full annual report from the plan administrator, these two statements and accompanying notes will be included as part of that report. The charge to cover copying costs given above does not include a charge for the copying of these portions of the report because these portions are furnished without charge. You also have the legally protected right to examine the annual report at the main office of the plan at 730 Harrison Street, Suite 400, San Francisco, CA 94107, and at the U. S. Department of Labor in Washington, DC, or to obtain a copy from the U. S. Department of Labor upon payment of copying costs. Requests to the Department should be addressed to Public Disclosure Room, Room N1513, Employee Benefits Security Administration, U.S. Department of Labor, 200 Constitution Avenue, N. W., Washington, D.C. 20210. Seafarers LOG 11 �65262_Seafarers_X2:JUNE 2011 6/27/2011 7:02 PM Page 12 The recent mission proved a reunion of sorts for a number of mariners who in 2010 had sailed together aboard the Collector. Those crew members, pictured from left to right earlier this year on the SS Pacific Tracker, are OMU Jo MDR Duane Akers, AB John O’Connell, AB Warner James, Chief Cook Albert Hermoso, SA Patty Johansen, CM J SA Thomas (Mike) Curley, QMED Patrick Devlin, SA Armando Amante, OS Jack Corn, SA Orlando Makiling and GU Souza. T Pacific Tracker Assists in Key Mis GUDE Michael Souza, Bosun John Mossbarger OMU Amber Fisher uses a sandblaster. OMU Ali Mohamed lends a hand at the drill press. 12 Seafarers LOG he SIU-crewed Pacific Tracker earlier this year supported an important test successfully conducted by the U.S. Missile Defense Agency (MDA). A mid-April report by the MDA stated that agency personnel along with U.S. Navy sailors aboard the destroyer USS O’Kane and soldiers from the 94th Army Air and Missile Defense Command operating from the 613th Air and Space Operations Center at Hickam Air Force Base, Hawaii, “successfully conducted a flight test of the Aegis Ballistic Missile Defense (BMD) element of the nation’s Ballistic Missile Defense System, resulting in the intercept of a separating ballistic missile target over the Pacific Ocean. This successful test demonstrated the capability of the first phase of the European Phased Adaptive Approach announced by the President in September 2009.” This marked the United States’ first test of a sea-based defense against longer-range weapons of a particular type, according to agency and news reports. Earlier tests involved shorter-range targets. Operated by Interocean American Shipping, the Pacific Tracker did its part for the exercise, conducted in the pre-dawn hours of April 15. The test involved launching an intermediate-range ballistic missile target from the Marshall Islands, roughly 2,300 miles southwest of Hawaii. Just 11 minutes after the target was launched, the O’Kane destroyed it. (Official video footage of the exercise, dubbed FTM-15, is posted on YouTube.) “We were a team, and you could really feel it aboard the ship,” said OMU John Steeber, who provided the photos accompanying this story. “I’ve been on a number of similar mis- sions and w themselves this particul this last one The MDA challenging intercept ag (range 1,864 The Seafarers-crewed Pacific Tracker is operated by Interoce 2nd Cook Gregory Blaylock July 2011 �65252_Seafarers:JUNE 2011 r aboard the MV Pacific are OMU John Steeber, ansen, CM Jerry Smith, ling and GUDE Michael 6/24/2011 8:20 AM Page 13 QMED Patrick Devlin, 1st AE/SIU Hawsepiper Jeffrey Yarmola, OMU Ali Mohammed, OMU John Steeber Missile Defense Agency Test sions and while everyone always handles themselves professionally, due to the nature of this particular voyage the pride and effort on this last one were outstanding.” The MDA described the test as “the most challenging to date, as it was the first … intercept against an intermediate-range target (range 1,864 to 3,418 miles) and the first … engagement relying on remote tracking data.” FTM-15 was the 21st successful intercept, in 25 attempts, for the Aegis BMD program since flight testing began in 2002, according to the agency. The Pacific Tracker previously sailed for the U.S. Military Sealift Command as the SS Beaver State. d by Interocean American Shipping. SA Thomas (Mike) Curley July 2011 SA Patricia Johansen, Chief Steward Lewis Johansen SA Orlando Makiling, SA Armando Amante OMU John Steeber (left) and QMED Patrick Devlin work on brackets for a new tool board. Seafarers LOG 13 �65262_Seafarers_X2:JUNE 2011 6/27/2011 7:07 PM Page 14 Editor’s note: This is the eighth and final installment in a series written by Edward T. Woods, a U.S. Merchant Marine veteran of World War II who sailed in the engine and steward departments. Previous entries were published off and on beginning with the September 2010 edition of the LOG. Woods turns 84 this month; he was 16 when he shipped out aboard the S/S Horseshoe in 1944. The most recent installment of his story (published in the June edition) ended in 1946, while Woods was in Germany as a crew member from the U.S. Army Transport ship Edmund B. Alexander. A t Christmastime 1946, about eight members of the crew each gave a few packs of American cigarettes to a local German family that we had befriended during our stay. They traded the cigarettes for a live rabbit, potatoes, a green vegetable, bread, a butter substitute and bottles of local bootleg whiskey that the family told us was similar to Kummel. The old-timers said it was nothing like the prewar Kummel that was known and enjoyed throughout all Europe. Since we had provided the means, we were invited to their Christmas Eve dinner. I had never eaten rabbit and was hesitant, but I did, and it proved tasty. The lady of the house had made boiled potatoes and delicious gravy. It was a satisfying and an agreeable dinner. The family youngsters had set up a live Christmas tree in the living room and decorated it with burning candles. An old lady, the family grandma, kept trying to tell me something about the tree that I couldn’t understand. Later in the evening, as we were all singing O Tannenbaum, O Tannenbaum, the German Christmas tree song, my sleeve caught on fire as my arm brushed against the lighted candles. At this, the old lady shouted something to me, which the kids translated as that she had warned me about there being thirteen candles on the tree, a sure sign of bad luck. I guess the superstition regarding the number thirteen was known worldwide. Following a few rounds of drinks, the Americans began singing, O Deutschland, O Deutschland ünter Alles, a parody on O Deutschland, O Deutschland über Alles, the German national anthem, changing “Germany over all” to “Germany under all.” Obviously, we thought it was a big laugh until two German policemen came to the door and told us the song was forbidden to be sung in any form since the end of hostilities. We were still teenagers and what may not be politically correct today was hilarious to us at the time. The Alexander, originally a coal burner, had been converted to oil in the early months of World War II. In the engine room area, there were huge rooms that had once stored coal, now empty, cleaned and painted. They proved to be convenient places for dice and card playing. Both big and small games went on day and night. The ship’s masters at arms, whose job was to police the ship and stop gambling, never went down into the engine room. One older member of the steward department, a true entrepreneur, set up a table with chairs in a small side room, provided fresh decks of cards, poker chips and brought sandwiches and coffee in from the galley. He took a quarter out of each hand dealt over the entire time of play. It was called “cutting the game.” Everyone seemed satisfied with the arrangement; at least no one complained. I am confident he went home the biggest winner at the end of the voyage. I had exceptionally good luck playing poker the few weeks before Christmas. I won a few big pots and I was able to send a $500 money order home to my mother as a Christmas present. Mother was working at the Hotel Barclay in New York and had become dissatisfied with her job. She later wrote to tell me that she was so pleased with the present that she quit her job. In 1946, $500 was about 15 weeks’ pay. She had wanted a reason to stay home, as she was concerned about my youngest sister, Jane being alone in our apartment. Jane was eight years old at the time…. When we left Germany to return to the States, there were a lot of sad goodbyes from our German friends and promises made to keep in touch. We were back in New York but a few days when we were ordered to Reykjavik, Iceland, to pick up the last remaining American troops still deployed there. I was disappointed that there was no 14 Seafarers LOG The Ed Woods Story – A Teenager In World War II Ed Woods and his wife, Jackie, visit a World War II memorial in St. Bernard Parish, La. “It’s a beautiful memorial,” Ed said. “I was pleased to see the merchant marine honored on an equal basis with the other services.” shore leave, as I had never expected to visit Iceland and, in all probability, would never go there again. We anchored off shore for a night and the next day the troops were carried out to the Alexander on lighters. From Iceland, we went to St. Johns, Newfoundland, and dropped off most of the troops. Why we carried American Army troops from Iceland to Newfoundland, Canada, in early 1947, I don’t know; the war was over. Back in New York, I learned that Walter Winchell, Westbrook Pegler and other influential newspaper columnists of that era, and who also had national radio audiences, had spread untrue stories about merchant seamen. They called us communists, drunks and strikers that had refused to unload ships at Guadalcanal and, unbelievably, also called us draft dodgers. (Sixteen-year-old draft dodgers?) Winchell and the newspapers that carried these stories lost the libel suits filed against them, and were forced by the court to apologize, print retractions, and to pay damages. Unfortunately, the myth that mariners refused to unload ships in Guadalcanal persists even today. I have no idea why Winchell and Pegler reported these lies. Every man I met aboard a merchant ship during World War II had a reason for being there and not in other branches of the military, most commonly disabilities that prevented them from enlisting or being drafted, or being overage or underage. If there were any shirkers or draft dodgers going to sea at that time, I never met them and not a one of the people I sailed with ever hesitated to man a gun against the enemy. After a short vacation, I decided to go the marine engineering school at Sheepshead Bay, N.Y. I had sailed as a fireman/water tender and oiler but didn’t have the official endorsement. After a month at school, I passed the exams, received my endorsements and obtained a fireman/water tender’s job on a brand new Victory ship, the S/S Pierre Victory on July 17, 1947 and sailed to Antwerp and Rotterdam. When I returned to New York, due to a National Maritime Union policy, I was forced to leave the ship. I was able to get a fireman/water tender’s job with on the ESSO Rochester for a short time until that too was sold to foreign investors. The Rochester only made coastwise trips: Boston, Baltimore and ports in Texas. By 1948, it became difficult for me to get a berth on a ship, mainly because I was not a member of any seafarer’s union (though it wasn’t for lack of interest). My ships had been handled by the Wet Ink/Standard Oil Company under the supervision of the U.S. Navy and I was never given an opportunity to join a union. At the end of the war, when I tried to join, I was told the “books were filled.” Most of our merchant fleet was tied up in graveyards or had been sold to foreigners for pennies on the dollar. I wanted to go back to sea but it proved impossible to get with any company. Our tankers and other ships were being sold to foreign interests. I was desperate for a job and, fortunately, I heard of job openings in Korea for marine engine personnel. My old friend Phil Marshal and I filed applications, we were accepted, and within a few days we were en route by plane to Seoul, Korea. The flight took two weeks from Fairfield, California, to Gimpo Airport in Seoul. We flew in a two-engine plane that made numerous refueling stops: Hawaii, Johnson Island, Kwajalein Island, Guam, Manila, Tokyo and lastly Seoul. Our stop in Tokyo lasted for 10 days and gave us ample time to tour the city…. I took note of how much of the city had been burned down and not yet rebuilt. When we were ready to leave for Seoul on a smaller Army plane, we were told we would be required to wear parachutes. A Japanese man came out and in broken English said he would instruct us in the use of parachutes. I didn’t like this procedure. To me, it had been only a short time before that he and his buddies wanted to blow me out of the water and now he was going to tell me how to jump out of a plane if necessary. An American army sergeant in charge of the boarding assured me that all was in order and it was safe to follow the man’s instructions. We were listed as Department of the Army Civilians (DACS) and given grades equal to our yearly pay. We were equal to U.S. Army first lieutenants and were assigned to BOQs. We were pleased with the designation, having lived in cramped quarters aboard ships. There were other benefits available: the use of officers clubs and bars, and we were entitled to buy a monthly liquor ration. The U.S. military would purchase the liquor tax-free, which made it very inexpensive, for resale to military officers and DACS. For $5, we could buy a bottle of scotch, a bottle of rye, two bottles of wine, and a case of beer. I much preferred the beer and would exchange my liquor with the scotch and whiskey drinkers for their cases of beer. In between, I could buy beer and whiskey at the officers club for about ten cents a drink. American personnel were asked to serve as monitors in a free Korean election that resulted in Syngman Rhee being elected the first president of the new republic. I met Rhee and his Australian wife during a brief ceremony in Pusan when the U.S. Army turned over a former Japanese destroyer to him for use by his new government. The day before the transfer, the U.S. military officers and the DACs were invited to enjoy a sea cruise before the ship was officially given to the Korean government. I don’t know who footed the bill but there was plenty of good food and drink available. Some of the army officers had brought their Korean house girls along for the ride and everybody had a good time. The next day, however, it was announced by the commanding officer of the area, a full colonel, that the employment of house girls was forbidden from that day forward and if domestic help was needed by American or allied personnel it was to be limited to male employees…. I spent my first three months working in Pusan on the south coast of Korea teaching Koreans the fundamentals of operating a floating electrical power barge. They were quick to learn and I transferred to Seoul, the capital and largest Korean city. I became a boiler inspector for the U.S. State Department. My job was to examine the boilers in designated buildings that were being considered for use by our government. I had the use of a small truck, a driver, four laborers and a translator. How the translator ever got his job was beyond me. I knew but a few words in Korean but it was more words than he knew in English. We found that talking in pigeon English was best for communicating, although many times it was difficult to give instructions to my crew…. I had signed a year’s contract to work in Korea, which would have kept me there until April 1949. However, by Thanksgiving 1948, the United States government decided to send home as many civilians as could be spared. It was no surprise; the Russian-controlled North Korea had been causing problems since the end of hostilities with Japan and most of us sensed that a war with North Korea was inevitable. I returned to the States as a passenger on a United States Army transport that stopped for two days in Okinawa. I went ashore and saw the many changes that had taken place since my previous visit in 1945. The wreckage and the sunken ships were gone and the port had a pristine look. There were no signs of the typhoon that had caused so much damage on my visit three years earlier. My ship arrived in San Francisco on Christmas Eve 1948. Those of us who had never before sailed under the Golden Gate Bridge followed the custom and threw coins in the water for the good luck it was sure to bring. A man whom I had made friends with in Korea, and whose home was in San Francisco, made arrangements for a few of us to stay at a local hotel until after the Christmas weekend. That afternoon, Christmas Eve, he treated us to dinner at the famous Top of the Mark restaurant. Alcatraz Island in San Francisco Bay was pointed out to us. At first, the island had a majestic appearance until I realized it was a federal prison holding the most serious offenders…. I found it difficult to settle down home in New York and tried various jobs until February 3, 1950 when I married Jackie. However, that will be another story at another time. It was Sunday, June 25, 1950. Jackie and I had just sat down for breakfast when it was announced over the radio that North Korea had invaded South Korea. I wasn’t surprised; in fact, I had expected North Korea, backed by the Soviet Union, to attempt a takeover of all Korea much earlier…. It pained me to hear that the North Korean army was finding it so easy to march south down the peninsula, overcoming what was described as light resistance by the small number of American forces on duty there. I had made friends with many of the younger Army enlisted men, serving with the 24th Corps, during my stay in the Seoul area and I feared for their safety. Many of them were teenagers and had never been in a war. At the end of World War II, I had earned and been issued a document called a Certificate of Continuous Service. End Notes See Mariner, Page 20 July 2011 �65252_Seafarers:JUNE 2011 6/24/2011 8:21 AM Page 15 Dispatchers’ Report for Deep Sea May 16, 2011 - June 15, 2011 According to the report, the Port of New York and New Jersey (above) was one of the nation’s busier stops in 2010. (Photo courtesy American Association of Port Authorities.) MarAd Report Says U.S. Port Calls Grew in 2010 The U.S. Department of Transportation’s Maritime Administration in mid-June released a report showing that more oceangoing vessels are calling on U.S. ports. Such stops or port calls increased by 13 percent in 2010 following an eight percent decline in 2009, according to the agency. “Oceangoing vessel calls reflect waterborne trade between the United States and countries around the world, and are a measure of import, export and domestic ocean shipments,” MarAd said in announcing the report. Secretary of Transportation Ray LaHood viewed the increase as an indication of economic recovery. “Although challenges remain, this encouraging rebound in oceangoing vessels is a sign that President Obama’s economic policies are working,” LaHood said. “We’re committed to supporting policies that will build on this momentum so that the maritime industry will continue to grow and create American jobs.” According to the report, titled “Vessel Calls Snapshot, 2010,” some 7,579 oceangoing vessels made 62,747 calls at U.S. ports last year. Of the 2010 calls 35 percent were by tankers carrying oil and gas used to power vehicles and heat homes; 31 percent were by containerships carrying general export and import cargo for markets around the U.S. and the world; 17 percent were by dry bulk vessels carrying iron, coal and grain for export; nine percent were by rollon/roll-off vessels carrying vehicles for import and export; and six percent were by general cargo ships. In addition, the report shows that tanker operators are replacing single-hull vessels with new, greener double-hull ships. In 2010, 97 percent of the tanker calls were by double-hull vessels, up from 78 percent five years earlier. “As our economy recovers, maritime can play even more of a key role in the affordable, efficient and environmentally sustainable transportation of goods, both within our borders and across oceans,” said U.S. Maritime Administrator David Matsuda. The 24-page report is available online, in PDF format, on the MarAd web site: www.marad.dot.gov. It summarizes and highlights vessel calls for U.S. ports by coast and vessel type, age, size, global vessel calls, and top 10 U.S. port calls. August & September 2011 Membership Meetings Piney Point................Monday: August 8, *Tuesday: September 6 Algonac ......................................Friday: August 12, September 9 Baltimore.................................Thursday: August 11, September 8 Guam.....................................Thursday: August 25, September 22 Honolulu ...................................Friday: August 19, September 16 Houston....................................Monday: August 15, September 12 Jacksonville.............................Thursday: August 11, September 8 Joliet......................................Thursday: August 18, September 15 Mobile................................Wednesday: August 17, September 14 New Orleans.................................Tuesday: August 16, September 13 New York....................................Tuesday: August 9, September 6 Norfolk....................................Thursday: August 11, September 8 Oakland .................................Thursday: August 18, September 15 Philadelphia..........................Wednesday: August 10, September 7 Port Everglades .....................Thursday: August 18, September 15 San Juan..................................Thursday: August 11, September 8 St. Louis ....................................Friday: August 19, September 16 Tacoma......................................Friday: August 26, September 23 Wilmington..................................Monday: August 22, September 19 * Piney Point change created by Labor Day holiday Each port’s meeting starts at 10:30 a.m. July 2011 Port Total Registered All Groups A B C Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS 20 1 6 16 4 7 46 42 1 15 13 51 17 27 5 0 9 38 4 29 351 8 3 4 8 1 8 17 30 7 6 7 18 23 15 1 1 9 17 2 25 210 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS 2 0 3 14 3 7 24 13 3 4 7 13 11 11 4 0 4 16 3 11 153 6 1 3 7 0 3 11 19 3 4 2 9 17 9 5 2 5 13 1 13 133 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS 2 0 5 14 1 15 24 12 3 5 6 19 13 17 3 5 1 6 2 25 178 2 0 3 6 1 1 5 5 2 0 2 9 14 5 1 3 2 3 3 3 70 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTAL 1 0 1 0 0 0 6 2 1 0 2 6 0 4 0 0 0 4 0 5 32 11 1 2 9 0 3 23 21 2 7 2 29 23 17 3 5 3 18 1 11 191 GRAND TOTAL: 714 604 Total Shipped All Groups A B C Trip Reliefs 2 0 1 0 0 0 0 3 0 0 0 1 1 0 0 0 0 3 0 1 12 1 1 2 9 0 3 27 20 0 2 5 22 6 14 2 0 4 19 0 18 155 18 1 8 24 7 11 87 58 3 19 19 85 32 43 11 4 12 53 3 69 567 7 6 9 22 6 11 42 38 5 11 12 34 36 24 7 4 14 31 2 34 355 2 0 1 3 0 1 4 3 3 1 2 4 7 2 0 0 0 7 1 8 49 2 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 4 0 1 2 2 0 1 6 7 0 2 5 10 6 5 2 0 1 9 0 6 65 2 0 7 18 4 14 29 32 4 13 7 26 20 12 2 0 8 24 2 20 244 2 2 8 12 1 9 21 37 1 7 4 19 34 12 5 3 11 20 3 29 240 0 0 0 0 0 0 4 1 0 1 3 4 2 1 0 0 0 1 1 2 20 0 0 0 1 1 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 0 1 0 0 0 1 0 0 6 0 0 0 4 0 0 6 10 0 2 2 13 6 8 1 0 1 5 1 9 68 2 0 7 12 3 20 34 29 1 5 7 37 19 34 1 3 2 31 2 50 299 2 0 4 5 3 3 11 10 2 1 3 12 21 4 2 1 4 4 2 3 97 0 0 0 1 1 1 0 2 0 0 1 0 1 0 1 0 0 0 0 1 9 2 0 0 1 0 3 1 3 0 1 0 1 4 3 1 34 0 0 0 3 57 1 1 0 1 0 0 2 3 0 0 1 6 1 1 0 1 0 3 0 3 24 2 0 2 0 0 4 6 5 0 1 2 18 0 5 0 0 0 13 0 11 69 15 2 3 15 2 12 28 39 2 10 3 58 37 26 3 5 3 24 2 48 337 27 2 3 10 1 5 11 24 4 3 10 15 47 13 5 6 5 14 1 29 235 Deck Department 2 10 8 0 1 2 3 3 5 1 14 4 0 4 2 1 7 6 6 39 16 4 23 24 1 2 3 1 9 5 1 14 3 3 36 14 5 11 13 2 27 10 0 0 3 0 0 0 0 9 6 2 33 15 1 4 1 3 27 21 36 273 161 Engine Department 0 4 6 0 0 2 0 1 6 0 6 2 0 0 0 0 2 2 5 14 10 2 8 8 0 1 3 0 6 1 1 7 2 2 10 11 0 9 11 1 7 7 0 3 3 0 1 0 0 2 1 11 1 6 0 1 1 2 11 9 14 99 96 Steward Department 0 2 1 0 0 0 0 2 1 0 11 3 1 1 0 0 4 2 0 17 3 2 13 1 0 2 1 0 6 2 2 5 1 1 20 4 1 10 7 1 16 4 0 3 0 0 2 2 0 3 2 0 14 3 0 1 3 0 16 2 8 148 42 Entry Department 12 1 8 1 0 2 2 0 1 3 0 6 0 0 0 8 0 4 8 6 8 8 2 15 0 1 1 1 0 1 1 2 2 9 1 26 11 0 15 9 2 8 2 0 0 29 0 4 4 1 1 7 6 6 0 0 1 4 5 7 119 27 116 177 547 415 79 312 Registered on Beach All Groups A B C 1,179 1,029 313 Seafarers LOG 15 �65252_Seafarers:JUNE 2011 6/24/2011 8:21 AM Page 16 Inquiring Seafarer Seafarers International Union Directory Michael Sacco, President Augustin Tellez, Executive Vice President David Heindel, Secretary-Treasurer George Tricker, Vice President Contracts Tom Orzechowski, Vice President Lakes and Inland Waters Dean Corgey, Vice President Gulf Coast Nicholas J. Marrone, Vice President West Coast Joseph T. Soresi, Vice President Atlantic Coast Kermett Mangram, Vice President Government Services HEADQUARTERS 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746 (301) 899-0675 ALGONAC 520 St. Clair River Dr., Algonac, MI 48001 (810) 794-4988 ANCHORAGE 721 Sesame St., #1C, Anchorage, AK 99503 (907) 561-4988 BALTIMORE 2315 Essex St., Baltimore, MD 21224 (410) 327-4900 GUAM P.O. Box 3328, Hagatna, Guam 96932 Cliffline Office Ctr. Bldg., Suite 103B 422 West O’Brien Dr., Hagatna, Guam 96910 (671) 477-1350 HONOLULU 606 Kalihi St., Honolulu, HI 96819 (808) 845-5222 HOUSTON 1221 Pierce St., Houston, TX 77002 (713) 659-5152 JACKSONVILLE 5100 Belfort Rd., Jacksonville, FL 32256 (904) 281-2622 JOLIET 10 East Clinton St., Joliet, IL 60432 (815) 723-8002 MOBILE 1640 Dauphin Island Pkwy, Mobile, AL 36605 (251) 478-0916 Editor’s note: This month’s question was answered by members at the hall in Brooklyn, N.Y. Question: What is your favorite port that you’ve visited? William Harrison Oiler I would say that Rota, Spain, is my favorite port that I’ve ever been to as a Seafarer. The reason I liked the port is because it had scenery that was incredible. The culture was welcoming and embracing. I also went to the beach while I was there and it was very clean and very well maintained. The food in Spain was amazing, especially the bread they served. I would recommend Rota to any Seafarer as a destination they must experience. There’s a military base as well, so you can do shopping without going into town. It has all the perks you need. Jesus Colomer Sanchez GUDE My favorite port is Cancun, Mexico. The people there are really friendly and really nice. The area is beautiful, with white, sandy beaches. Also, the food is delicious. Earl Powers AB The Port of New York/New Jersey is actually my favorite port. I regularly ship from here and I’m always glad to be back. The people who work here at the port are, to me, what makes it so great. Jeremy Paschke AB Pics-From-The-Past My favorite port, without a doubt, was one I hit on my last ship, the M/V Green Cove. The port was Melbourne, Australia. I was only there for one day but I absolutely loved everything about my time in Melbourne. We hit port on Boxer Day, the day after Christmas, which is a big holiday down under. The vibrancy, energy, and civility of the crowded streets were a very welcome sight after over two weeks at sea. Australians are a great people and have built an awesome city that they can be proud of. I can’t wait to go back. Terry N. Arbuah AB My favorite port is the port of New York/New Jersey because I’ve lived here for so long and I love it. When I’m returning home and I see the Statue of Liberty, I always clap. Phillip Ayotte Electrician My favorite port is Haifa, Israel. In the spring of 2006, while sailing relief on the Maersk Nebraska, we docked the evening before the anniversary of Israel’s founding. All the longshoremen knocked off at 1800 and didn’t resume work until 2200 the next day. I hired a guide and we visited all the sites in Israel, including the great church in Nazareth, the holy sites in Canaan and Galilee, and the Jordan River. I went swimming in the Dead Sea, which is a very unique experience. The water is so dense, your body floats and you can’t drown. I’ve visited a lot of places in my years working and that area has an energy unlike any other. I plan to travel there on vacation with my beautiful wife sometime in the future. NEW ORLEANS 3911 Lapalco Blvd., Harvey, LA 70058 (504) 328-7545 NEW YORK 635 Fourth Ave., Brooklyn, NY 11232 (718) 499-6600 Government Services Division: (718) 499-6600 NORFOLK 115 Third St., Norfolk, VA 23510 (757) 622-1892 OAKLAND 1121 7th St., Oakland, CA 94607 (510) 444-2360 PHILADELPHIA 2604 S. 4 St., Philadelphia, PA 19148 (215) 336-3818 PINEY POINT P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674 (301) 994-0010 PORT EVERGLADES 1221 S. Andrews Ave., Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33316 (954) 522-7984 SANTURCE 1057 Fernandez Juncos Ave., Stop 16 Santurce, PR 00907 (787) 721-4033 ST. LOUIS/ALTON 4581 Gravois Ave., St. Louis, MO 63116 (314) 752-6500 TACOMA 3411 South Union Ave., Tacoma, WA 98409 (253) 272-7774 WILMINGTON 510 N. Broad Ave., Wilmington, CA 90744 (310) 549-4000 Mariners from Isthmian’s George M Bibb are pictured June 27, 1946 at Staten Island, New York’s Pier 5 shortly after the vessel paid off. At the time, Isthmian crews were choosing between eventual winner SIU, another union, or no representation as they cast votes in a National Labor Relations Board-certified election. This Isthmian fleet included more than 3,000 unlicensed jobs. If anyone has a vintage union-related photograph he or she would like to share with other Seafarers LOG readers, please send it to the Seafarers LOG, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. Photographs will be returned, if so requested. High-resolution digital images may be sent to webmaster@seafarers.org 16 Seafarers LOG July 2011 �65252_Seafarers:JUNE 2011 6/24/2011 8:21 AM Page 17 Welcome Ashore Each month, the Seafarers LOG pays tribute to the SIU members who have devoted their working lives to sailing aboard U.S.-flag vessels on the deep seas, inland waterways or Great Lakes. Listed below are brief biographical sketches of those members who recently retired from the union. The brothers and sisters of the SIU thank those members for a job well done and wish them happiness and good health in the days ahead. DEEP SEA AMADO ABANIEL Brother Amado Abaniel, 70, began sailing with the union in 1980, originally on a Delta Steamship vessel. He attended classes on numerous occasions at the Piney Point school. Brother Abaniel was a member of the deck department. He last worked aboard the Overseas Long Beach. Brother Abaniel resides in Long Beach, Calif. FRANCISCO BRAVO Brother Francisco Bravo, 65, became an SIU member in 1999 while in the port of New York. His initial voyage was on the USNS Yano; his last was aboard the USNS Denebola. Brother Bravo sailed in the deck department. He enhanced his skills in 2001 at the union-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. Brother Bravo lives in Baltimore. EMILIO CORDOVA Brother Emilio Cordova, 65, joined the union in 1986. He was born in Chile and worked as a member of the steward department. On three occasions, Brother Cordova upgraded at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. One of his first trips with the SIU was on the USNS Denebola. Brother Cordova most recently shipped aboard the President Adams. He calls New York home. EVARISTO CRUZ Brother Evaristo Cruz, 65, became a Seafarer in 1978. His first ship was the Mayaguez. Brother Cruz was born in Puerto Rico and worked in the deck department. He last sailed aboard the Expedition. Brother Cruz is a resident of Yabucoa, P.R. LUIS DAVILA Brother Luis Davila, 65, donned the SIU colors in 1978. He originally sailed on the Humacao as a member of the steward department. Brother Davila is a native of Puerto Rico. His final trip was aboard the El Yunque. Brother Davila makes his home in Barceloneta, P.R. July 2011 MILTON FLYNN Brother Milton Flynn, 66, joined the Seafarers in 2000 while in Fort Lauderdale, Fla. On three occasions, Brother Flynn took advantage of educational opportunities available at the SIUaffiliated school in Maryland. He was first employed on the USNS Dahl. Brother Flynn, a member of the deck department, most recently worked aboard the Calvin P. Titus. He resides in Pompano Beach, Fla. RAYMOND FRIEDLER Brother Raymond Friedler, 65, signed on with the SIU in 1967. The engine department member’s initial voyage was on Waterman Steamship’s Fanwood. Brother Friedler’s final trip to sea was aboard the Stuyvesant. He lives in Pacifica, Calif. CARSON JORDAN Brother Carson Jordan, 60, became an SIU member in 1972. He first sailed on the Bradford Island. Brother Jordan, a member of the deck department, frequently upgraded at the unionaffiliated Paul Hall Center. He most recently shipped aboard the Green Bay. Brother Jordan calls Jacksonville, Fla., home. SAMUEL WASHINGTON Brother Samuel Washington, 74, was born in Green Cove Springs, Fla. He began his career with the Seafarers in 2000 while in the port of Norfolk, Va. Brother Washington was originally employed on the USNS Effective. The steward department member’s final voyage was aboard the USNS Watkins. Brother Washington settled in Norfolk. ROOSEVELT WILLIAMS Brother Roosevelt Williams, 70, started his SIU career in 2000. He sailed in the engine department. Brother Williams completed a number of training components at the SIUaffiliated school in Piney Point, Md. His most recent trip to sea was aboard the El Faro. Brother Williams is a resident of San Antonio, Texas. INLAND CARLTON BRICKHOUSE Brother Carlton Brickhouse, 62, began sailing with the union in 1967. His earliest trip was with Moran Towing of Virginia. Brother Brickhouse attended classes in 1967 at the Piney Point school (the year the facility opened). His final vessel was operated by McAllister Towing of Virginia. Brother Brickhouse resides in Chesapeake, Va. HILTON FOSTER Brother Hilton Foster, 55, became an SIU member 1980. Brother Foster primarily worked aboard Express Marine Inc. vessels. He was born in North Carolina. Brother Foster was a steward department member. He often upgraded his seafaring abilities at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Foster makes his home in Aurora, N.C. DESO HRBOKA Brother Deso Hrboka, 60, joined the union in 1984 while in Wilmington, Calif. He was born in Croatia and shipped in the engine department. Brother Hrboka took advantage of educational opportunities available at the SIU-affiliated school in Maryland on two occasions. He was employed with Crowley Towing & Transportation of Wilmington for the duration of his career. Brother Hrboka lives in Ventura, Calif. STEVEN WILLIAMS Brother Steven Williams, 58, began his seafaring profession in 1973. He worked in both the deep sea and inland divisions. Brother Williams initially sailed on the Cove Navigator. He was born in Jacksonville, Fla., and sailed in the engine department. Brother Williams most recently worked with Crowley Towing & Transportation of Jacksonville. He frequently enhanced his skills at the union-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. Brother Williams continues to reside in Jacksonville. GREAT LAKES LARRY ENGLISH Brother Larry English, 65, donned the SIU colors in 1967. The Florida native originally shipped aboard the Redland. In 2002, Brother English attended classes at the Piney Point school. His final ship was the Richard J. Reiss. Brother English, who sailed in the deck department, calls Greenville, Fla., home. This Month In SIU History Editor’s note: The following items are reprinted from previous editions of the Seafarers LOG. 1940 In a surprise move on July 27, 260 SIU members who manned the ships of the New Bedford, Martha’s Vineyard, and Nantucket Steamship Line went on a four-day strike for increased wages and emerged victorious. After intervention by the governor of Massachusetts, which resulted in the settlement, they agreed that their demands for increases of $10 per month in wages and 10 cents per hour could be submitted to an impartial board for settlement. The company also agreed to reinstate all strikers without discrimination. Despite company threats, the strike was 100 percent effective. 1953 Every ship in the SIU fleet was provided with a 50-book library under a new program inaugurated by the union through the efforts of the Seafarers LOG office. Distribution of the new libraries will be handled by the SIU Sea Chest, which has facilities in all major port cities. The placing of books aboard SIU vessels meets a long-felt need for reading material to enliven long voyages, and provides the many avid readers on board SIU vessels with a large selection to choose from. 1966 Earl Shepard, vice president in charge of the Atlantic Coast, has been assigned the responsibility of meeting SIU Atlantic and Gulf Coast manpower needs. The Vietnam War has put great pressure on the existing SIU manpower, but the SIU has always provided enough men to man the needed ships. The SIU, through its extensive upgrading programs, is able to provide a pool of manpower to meet sudden crises, such as the Vietnam call-up. The breakout of vessels from the reserve fleet has meant that more jobs are available to SIU men and the union has effectively filled them. 2000 Baltimore-area SIU members enthusiastically endorsed the opening of the union’s newest hall – a completely refurbished facility that opened July 1. Located at 2315 Essex Street, the Baltimore building is the second new SIU hall to open this year and the sixth since 1994. This is the third location for the SIU in Baltimore. From 1939 to 1954, the Baltimore hall was located on North Gay Street. The hall on East Baltimore Street opened in November 1954. Seafarers LOG 17 �65262_Seafarers_X:JUNE 2011 6/24/2011 8:47 PM Page 18 Final Departures DEEP SEA GLENN BERTRAND Brother Glenn Bertrand, 53, passed away January 16. Brother Bertrand first donned the SIU colors in 1975. He initially shipped aboard the Long Lines. Brother Bertrand, who sailed in the steward department, was born in Houston. He last worked on the Westward Venture. Brother Bertrand made his home in Pearland, Texas. WILLIE BUTTS Pensioner Willie Butts, 70, died January 21. Brother Butts first donned the SIU colors in 1968. He initially shipped aboard a vessel operated by Victory Carriers Inc. Brother Butts sailed in the engine department. Prior to his retirement in 1992, he worked on the Liberty Sea. Brother Butts was a resident of Roanoke, Ala. ROBERT DEHLBOM Pensioner Robert Dehlbom, 73, passed away February 1. Brother Dehlbom became an SIU member in 1967. His first trip was with Columbia Steamship Company. Brother Dehlbom sailed in the engine department. His last trip was aboard the Great Land. Brother Dehlbom called Chewelah, Wash. home. JOSEPH KOEBERLE Brother Joseph Koeberle, 61, died February 10. He signed on with the Seafarers in 1990. Brother Koeberle, a member of the deck department, first sailed on the USNS Denebola. His final ship was the Eugene A. Obregon. Brother Koeberle resided in Franklinville, N.J. CALVIN LANGLEY Pensioner Calvin Langley, 82, passed away January 23. Brother Langley joined the Seafarers in 1968. He was initially employed on the Western Comet. Brother Langley was a member of the engine department. He was born in Mississippi. Brother Langley’s last voyage was aboard the Discovery. He went on pension in 1993 and lived in Mobile, Ala. PAUL LEE Pensioner Paul Lee, 86, died January 11. Brother Lee was born 18 Seafarers LOG in China. He started sailing with the union in 1951 while in the port of Wilmington, Calif. Brother Lee, a member of the deck department, first worked with A.H. Bull Steamship Company. Prior to retiring in 1985, he made a last trip aboard the Santa Magdelena. Brother Lee was a resident of Daly City, Calif. BENJAMIN MAGLIANO Brother Benjamin Magliano, 41, passed away January 30. He started sailing with the union in 1990. Brother Magliano’s earliest trip was aboard the USNS Denebola. The engine department member’s last ship was the Commitment. Brother Magliano was a resident of Pasadena, Md. PANAGIOTIS MYKONIATIS Pensioner Panagiotis Mykoniatis, 85, died January 17. Brother Mykoniatis signed on with the SIU in 1966. His earliest trip was aboard the Meridian Victory. Brother Mykoniatis, who sailed in the engine department, last worked on the Robert E. Lee. He was born in Greece. Brother Mykoniatis began receiving his pension in 1990 and continued to reside in his native Greece. ORA RHOADES Pensioner Ora Rhoades, 83, passed away January 4. He first donned the SIU colors in 1944. Brother Rhoades initially sailed with A.H. Bull Steamship Company. He was a member of the deck department. Brother Rhoades’ final voyage was on the Long Island. He started collecting his retirement compensation in 1993 and made his home in Steuben, Maine. DENNIS SWORDS Brother Dennis Swords, 59, died December 25. Brother Swords joined the union in 1991. He originally shipped aboard the Austral Lightning. Brother Swords was born in Mobile, Ala. He worked in the engine department and most recently sailed on the Freedom. Brother Swords was a resident of Metairie, La. INLAND WILLIAM BURGESS Pensioner William Burgess, 70, passed away February 6. Brother Burgess was born in Mill Spring, N.C. He began shipping with the SIU in 1970. Brother Burgess first sailed with Steuart Transportation Company. Before his retirement in 1996, he worked aboard a Chesapeake & Delaware Towing vessel. Brother Burgess became a pensioner in 1996 and made his home in Fort Pierce, Fla. FRANK CAMPOS Brother Frank Campos, 48, died January 31. He started his seafaring career in 2002. Brother Campos initially sailed in the engine department aboard a vessel operated by Penn Maritime Inc. He last shipped aboard the Courage. Brother Campos lived in Kyle, Texas. RICHARD MASON Pensioner Richard Mason, 74, passed away February 16. Brother Mason became an SIU member in 1961. He was first employed with Marine Towing & Transportation. Brother Mason was born in Mt. Vernon, Md. His final trip was on an Interstate Oil Transport Company vessel. Brother Mason went on pension in 1999 and called Salisbury, Md., home. SIDNEY PELAS Pensioner Sidney Pelas, 72, died Dec. 21, 2010. Brother Pelas signed on with the SIU in 1971. The deck department member shipped aboard vessels operated by Dixie Carriers for the duration of his career. Brother Pelas became a pensioner in 2000. He was a resident of Buras, La. JOSEPH SANTULLI Brother Joseph Santulli, 53, passed away January 11. Brother Santulli was born in Philadelphia. He began working with the union in 1996 while in the port of Philadelphia. Brother Santulli primarily worked with Crowley Liner Services. He lived in Williamston, N.J. JACK THOMAS Pensioner Jack Thomas, 83, died January 29. Brother Thomas first donned the SIU colors in 1976. He initially shipped aboard a vessel operated by McAllister Towing of Virginia. Brother Thomas was born in Georgia. Prior to his retirement in 1993, he worked with Steuart Transportation Company. Brother Thomas made his home in Savannah, Ga. GREAT LAKES RAYMOND KLEIN Pensioner Raymond Klein, 83, passed away Feb. 5. Brother Klein began sailing with the union in 1960. A native of Posen, Mich., he sailed in the deck and engine departments. He first worked on an American Steamship Company vessel. Brother Klein’s final trip was aboard the St. Clair. He settled in Stuart, Fla. Editor’s note: The following brothers, all former members of the National Maritime Union (NMU), have passed away. NATIONAL MARITIME UNION JONATHAN CARROL Pensioner Jonathan Carroll, 90, passed away February 2. Brother Carroll was born in Alabama. He retired in 1969 and resided in Spanish Fort, Ala. EDUARDO CASTRO Pensioner Eduardo Castro, 85, died January 23. Brother Castro, a native of Puerto Rico, became a pensioner in 1967. He called New York home. LEO CHEEK Pensioner Leo Cheek, 79, passed away February 11. Brother Cheek was born in North Carolina. He went on pension in 1986. Brother Cheek settled in Norfolk, Va. GILBERTO COTTO Pensioner Gilberto Cotto, 80, died January 30. The Puerto Rico-born mariner became a pensioner in 1988. Brother Cotto was a resident of Philadelphia. LUIS DAVINSON Pensioner Luis Davinson, 82, passed away January 26. Brother Davinson was a native of Chile. He started collecting his retirement compensation in 1988. Brother Davinson lived in Fairview Borough, N.J. CLARENCE FERGUSON Pensioner Clarence Ferguson, 83, died Dec. 15, 2010. Brother Ferguson was born in Virginia. He went on pension in 1967 and called Virginia Beach, Va., home. JOHN McCHRISTIAN Pensioner John McChristian, 82, passed away January 29. Brother McChristian was a native of Texas. He retired in 1989. Brother McChristian made his home in Galveston, Texas. WILLIAM MOORE Pensioner William Moore, 85, died December 19. Brother Moore was born in Sedgwick, Kan. He became a pensioner in 1971. Brother Moore settled in Durham, N.C. LOUIS NOEL Pensioner Louis Noel, 93, passed away January 31. Brother Noel was a Grand Coteau, La., native. He started collecting his retirement compensation in 1981. Brother Noel continued to live in Louisiana. FRANK PETTIES Pensioner Frank Petties, 84, died January 23. Brother Petties, a native of Marshall, Texas, went on pension in 1988. He was still a resident of Marshall, Texas. JEROME POPE Pensioner Jerome Pope, 70, passed away January 28. Brother Pope was born in North Carolina. He began receiving his pension in 2005. Brother Pope lived in North Charleston, S.C. JOSEPH ROBERTS Pensioner Joseph Roberts, 88, died January 4. Born in the West Indies, he became a pensioner in 1984. Brother Roberts was a resident of Coral Springs, Fla. JAMES STEVENS Pensioner James Stevens, 75, passed away January 18. Brother Stevens was a Mississippi native. He retired in 1991. Brother Stevens made his home in Wilmer, Ala. JOHN STOUT Pensioner John Stout, 81, died January 25. Brother Stout was born in Ashland, Pa. He went on pension in 1987. Brother Stout settled in Gloucester Township, N.J. TEOFILO VELEZ Pensioner Teofilo Velez, 83, passed away December 27. Brother Velez, a native of Cayey, P.R., started collecting his retirement compensation in 1992. He called Brooklyn, N.Y., home. PONCIANO VITALES Pensioner Ponciano Vitales, 97, died February 5. Brother Vitales was born in the Philippines. He began receiving his pension in 1975. Brother Vitales resided in San Jose, Calif. July 2011 �65252_Seafarers:JUNE 2011 6/24/2011 8:21 AM Page 19 Digest of Shipboard Union Meetings ALLIANCE BEAUMONT (Maersk Line, Limited), April 17 – Chairman Thomas P. Banks, Secretary Charles A. Brooks, Educational Director Robert L. Stafford, Deck Delegate Glen A. Rogers. Chairman asked those departing vessel to leave rooms clean for next mariners. Educational director suggested Seafarers take advantage of Maersk safety course available at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. Treasurer reported $1,100 in ship’s fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Recommendation was made to increase pension amounts and lower sea time requirements. Crew thanked steward department for a job well done. Requests were made for a new dryer, DVD player and movies. DEPENDABLE (Transoceanic Cable Ship Company), April 3 – Chairman Sanyboy Whiting, Secretary Emmanuel F. Laureta, Educational Director Vladimir G. Tkachev, Deck Delegate Donivan McCants, Engine Delegate Cecilio Bango. Chairman reviewed ship’s itinerary. Secretary expressed gratitude for crew’s help keeping ship clean. Educational director urged members to enhance their skills, which can lead to better opportunities and advancement. No beefs or disputed OT reported. It was noted that ship’s fund had a $2,700 balance. Suggestion was made to purchase a new ping pong table. (AMSEA), April 11 – Chairman Kreg D. Stiebben, Secretary Meili W. Seegers, Educational Director Donald D. Williams, Deck Delegate Chad Rudisill, Engine Delegate Fontanos Ellison, Steward Delegate Gennadiy Dragunov. Bosun discussed AMSEA policies concerning fraternization, drugs, alcohol and general safety. Secretary looking into modifying dinner hours. Educational director advised everyone to upgrade at the SIU-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Members would like new video equipment in the crew lounge. Next port: Saipan. USNS DEWAYNE T. WILLIAMS The Seafarers LOG attempts to print as many digests of union shipboard minutes as possible. On occasion, because of space limitations, some will be omitted. Ships’ minutes first are reviewed by the union’s contract department. Those issues requiring attention or resolution are addressed by the union upon receipt of the ships’ minutes. The minutes are then forwarded to the Seafarers LOG for publication. Steward Serves Succulent Sushi Recertified Steward John Huyett (above) regularly serves up an assortment of sushi rolls for fellow mariners aboard the Alaskan Explorer. “Sushi has always intrigued me,” Huyett wrote in an email to the LOG. So he bought a sushi-making set, read about the procedures and “started to assemble what was needed for a successful venture. I started out slow, making the ever-popular California roll. After I got comfortable with that one, I expanded my horizons with a couple of my own inventions – the Mediterranean chicken and the vegan rolls. One day, I was at a sushi restaurant and happened to see the chef making nigiri or hand rolls. It wasn’t long before I added shrimp nigiri to my repertoire. I later added the salmon and spicy tuna rolls.” Now, mariners line up for “Sushi Saturdays” aboard the vessel, featuring platters of freshly rolled sushi stacked and ready for enjoyment. Huyett added, “It has become a distinguishing mark here on the Alaskan Explorer. Aboard this ship, this is how we roll!” HORIZON HUNTER (Horizon Lines), April 10 – Chairman Loren E. Watson, Secretary Jennifer K. Jim, Educational Director Morris A. Jeff, Deck Delegate Ryan Legario, Engine Delegate Mohammad Siddiq, Steward Delegate Romeo Manasala. Chairman reported payoff at sea on April 16 and reminded members to check OT and pre-payoff documents. He asked them to leave a clean set of linen for arriving crew. Crew members were notified that they could renew mariner credentials a year in advance. Secretary read communications pertaining to trip tour scenarios aboard PEX, TP1 run vessels. Mariners were advised to check sailing board prior to leaving ship. Educational director advised all mariners to attend classes at the SIU-affiliated training center in Piney Point, Md. Treasurer informed crew that fish was purchased in Guam and that there was $1,400 in ship’s fund. Beef reported in the deck department concerning off-time; no disputed OT. Chairman suggested that all mariners read President Mike Sacco’s report in the Seafarers LOG to stay informed on new events within the union. Recommendations were made regarding upcoming contract negotiations. Vote of thanks was given to the steward department for good food. Next ports: Oakland, Calif. and Long Beach, Calif. HORIZON TIGER (Horizon Lines), April 24 – Chairman Lawrence Kunc, Secretary Terry L. Allen, Educational Director Paul P. Pagano, Deck Delegate Norman Taylor, Engine Delegate Lonnie Carter. Bosun announced payoff upon arrival in Wilmington, Calif., on May 1. He thanked his fellow CIVMARS Deliver The dry cargo/ammo ship USNS Robert E. Peary (right), crewed in the unlicensed positions by members of the SIU Government Services Division, delivers supplies to the multipurpose amphibious assault ship USS Bataan May 25 in the Mediterranean Sea. The Peary is one of the U.S. Military Sealift Command’s T-AKE vessels. The Bataan is the command ship of a group conducting maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Julio Rivera) July 2011 mariners for a safe voyage. Secretary informed crew that a new microwave for mess hall is to be purchased and asked seamen departing vessel to clean their rooms and get fresh linen. Educational director reiterated the need to renew documents in a timely manner and advised all mariners to enhance skills at the union-affiliated training center in Piney Point, Md. Disputed OT reported in deck department; no beefs. Suggestion was made to improve vision and dental plans and also increase vacation days. Requests were made for new mattresses and speakers for crew lounge. Next ports: Wilmington, Calif. and Oakland, Calif. MAERSK VIRGINIA (Maersk Line, Limited), April 3 – Chairman Roberto A. Contreras, Secretary Hugh E. Wildermuth, Educational Director Donald M. Christian, Deck Delegate Damon Lobel, Engine Delegate Christopher Sykes, Steward Delegate Simone Solomon. Chairman stated payoff to take place in Newark, N.J. on April 4. Secretary thanked fellow mariners for a safe trip. He also expressed gratitude for their help in keeping vessel clean and galley equipment repaired. Educational director encouraged mariners to upgrade at Paul Hall Center. Ship’s fund contains $2,000. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew made numerous recommendations about next contract and various benefits plans. Next port: Newark, N.J. OVERSEAS ANACORTES (OSG), April 5 – Chairman Felsher Beasley, Secretary Dana A. Paradise, Educational Director Cary G. Pratts. Chairman praised all departments for their good work. He urged mariners to check out www.seafarers.org or the union’s Facebook fan page for current information regarding the maritime industry. Members were advised to stay up-to-date on all necessary seafaring documents. Secretary stated forms were available upon request. Educational director reminded crew to get their time in and take advantage of upgrading at Piney Point. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Discussion was held pertaining to new washing machine operation. Crew would like coffee machine to be replaced in crew mess hall. Next port: Fort Lauderdale, Fla. PELICAN STATE (Crowley), April 24 – Chairman Raymond A. Tate, Secretary Milton M. Yournett, Educational Director Oscar Garcia, Deck Delegate Byron Graham. Chairman notified crew members that payoff would take place May 2 in San Francisco. Secretary reminded Seafarers to keep their documents updated and accurate. Educational director advised everyone to upgrade at the union-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. Treasurer reported $3,000 in ship’s fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Vote of thanks was given to the steward department for their hard work. Next port: San Francisco. (Crowley), April 24 – Chairman Timothy J. Jackson, Secretary Stanley Krystosiak, Educational Director Louis A. Santiago, Deck Delegate Charles Mull, Engine Delegate Phillip Niles. Bosun advised everyone to upgrade at the SIU-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md., and make sure they stay up-to-date on their TWIC and MMD/MMC. Secretary reported a smooth trip. No beefs or disputed OT reported. President’s report from Seafarers LOG was read. Suggestions were made regarding pension benefits and bosun recertification class. All departments were thanked for jobs well done. PHILADELPHIA EXPRESS Seafarers LOG 19 �65262_Seafarers_X2:JUNE 2011 6/27/2011 7:07 PM Page 20 Mariner Reminisces Career With Fondness, Pride Continued from Page 14 It acknowledged that I had served honorably in the U.S. Merchant Marine for a given amount of time during the war. Its purpose was to exempt the mariner from any consideration in the military draft. I had never expected to have any need for it. However, in 1950, I was told that the exemption only applied to the draft laws of 1940; this was 1950, and a new draft law had been enacted. I was obligated to report to an induction center where I was given a physical examination and intelligence tests. I was not happy about this turn of events. I felt and truly believed that I had done my share six years earlier and wanted to spend my life in peace with my wife. I was accepted for service and told to prepare myself for induction. The war was waging in Korea and an officer recruiter told me that I would be offered a rating, as they needed men who knew something about Korea, especially since I was familiar with the three important cities: Seoul, Pusan and Inchon. It sounded interesting, but I was not looking forward to returning to Korea. In 1948, when I left there, Korea was attempting to recover from 35 years of Japanese occupation. I found its customs and lifestyles to be primitive compared to American standards. For one, I never got used to being in a vehicle on a narrow road behind honey wagons on a hot, sunny, dusty day. The stench was overwhelming. (Honey wagons collected and carried fertilizer made from human and animal waste.) On the day I was to be inducted, however, I learned that married men with or expecting children were excused from military service. I applied for and was granted an exemption. Our Eddie Jr. was due the following March. The drafting of World War II Merchant Seamen veterans in the 1950s was typical of how we were treated at the end of hostilities. No veterans’ benefits whatsoever, no medical treatment at the Marine hospitals for service-connected disabilities after 60 days, and being informed our wartime service did not count and that we were eligible to be drafted into the armed forces. If President Roosevelt had not died prematurely, benefits would have been given to us. FDR is on record requesting recognition for the contributions made by the U.S. Merchant Marine to the winning of WW II. Sadly, he died just before he was to sign the orders. A few months later, my younger brother John was drafted and was soon positioned at the front lines in Korea. My other younger brother, Jimmy, John’s twin, was exempt from service because he too was married and had a son, James Jr. Years later, in October 1968, James Jr., my nephew and Godchild was killed in action in Vietnam. Except for the petty officers, most of the gunners I sailed with in World War II were teenagers and at sea for the first time following basic training in boot camp. Each time we reached a new port, four or five of the gunners would be sent ashore and replacements would come aboard. At each port, the Navy would also put a different, seasoned Navy petty officer on board to teach the younger sailors Navy lore FINANCIAL REPORTS. The Constitution of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU makes specific provision for safeguarding the membership’s money and union finances. The constitution requires a detailed audit by certified public accountants every year, which is to be submitted to the membership by the secretary-treasurer. A yearly finance committee of rank-and-file members, elected by the membership, each year examines the finances of the union and reports fully their findings and recommendations. Members of this committee may make dissenting reports, specific recommendations and separate findings. TRUST FUNDS. All trust funds of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU are administered in accordance with the provisions of various trust fund agreements. All these agreements specify that the trustees in charge of these funds shall equally consist of union and management representatives and their alternates. All expenditures and disbursements of trust funds are made only upon approval by a majority of the trustees. All trust fund financial records are available at the headquarters of the various trust funds. SHIPPING RIGHTS. A member’s shipping rights and seniority are protected exclusively by contracts between the union and the employers. Members should get to know their shipping rights. Copies of these contracts are posted and available in all union halls. If members believe there have been violations of their shipping or seniority rights as contained in the contracts between the union and the employers, they should notify the Seafarers Appeals Board by certified mail, return 20 Seafarers LOG and basic seamanship. One time it would be a rated gunner’s mate and another time a rated bosun. The merchant crew would be invited to the classes. I attended when I could, I enjoyed it and I learned some valuable knot tying and splicing…. The majority of my shipmates during World War II were also teenagers, while the rest were old-timers in their upper fifties and sixties who had been seamen for most of their lives. I sailed with but a few middle-aged sailors, as ablebodied men in that age bracket had been drafted into the armed forces. I enlisted at age 16 and was 17 years old for most of the year I spent sailing the Pacific. The old-timers all had tales to tell about their experiences during the first years of the war. They had been torpedoed, bombed, and rescued out of lifeboats. One elderly oiler showed me three discharges all stamped Discharged at Sea. Three of his ships had been torpedoed and sunk. He had been picked up from lifeboats in the North Atlantic three times in three years. When a seaman finished a voyage and signed off a ship, he was issued a Certificate of Discharge that showed the date he had first signed on and the date he signed off. It also listed his position aboard ship and whether the voyage had been foreign. If his ship was sunk at sea, his pay stopped immediately and later, when he was able to obtain a Certificate of Discharge, it would be stamped Discharged at Sea…. In the evenings after supper, crew members would gather aft on the aft deck under the 5”38-gun turret and exchange stories. After a few weeks aboard ship, I could begin to tell which crew member embellished his tales and which crew member stuck to the facts. We all enjoyed listening to our second mate, the navigation officer, an elderly and friendly gentleman. He had been born and raised in Germany and had sailed in the German merchant navy before the First World War. He had served on the German liner Amerika. He told us that the Amerika had been the first ship to report icebergs to the Titanic in 1912. They transmitted the report by using their new Marconi radio. Unfortunately, the Titanic kept up speed, ignored the warning, hit an iceberg and went down in history as one of the most famous sea disasters. Our chief cook also had tales to tell. He had sailed to Murmansk, Russia, in one of the ill-fated convoys. His ship, although battered and bruised from enemy fire, was one of the few to make it to the Russian port of Archangel. The ship was forced to stay there for nine months, as it was known that a German battleship was waiting for them to leave port. Cookie, as he was called, did not have any good word for the Russians. He said that they treated him and his fellow crew members more like the enemy instead of the good Samaritans who had carried supplies from America to them under the most hazardous conditions. Most of the Russian dockworkers were women and had been forbidden to talk with them. No fraternizing whosoever with Russian women or men. Americans were also restricted in their travel Kn ow Y o u r R i gh t s receipt requested. The proper address for this is: Augustin Tellez, Chairman Seafarers Appeals Board 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 Full copies of contracts as referred to are available to members at all times, either by writing directly to the union or to the Seafarers Appeals Board. CONTRACTS. Copies of all SIU contracts are available in all SIU halls. These contracts specify the wages and conditions under which an SIU member works and lives aboard a ship or boat. Members should know their contract rights, as well as their obligations, such as filing for overtime (OT) on the proper sheets and in the proper manner. If, at any time, a member believes that an SIU patrolman or other union official fails to protect their contractual rights properly, he or she should contact the nearest SIU port agent. EDITORIAL POLICY — THE SEAFARERS LOG. The Seafarers LOG traditionally has refrained from publishing any article serving the political purposes of any individual in the union, officer or member. It also has refrained from publishing articles deemed harmful to the union or its collective membership. This established policy has been reaffirmed by membership action at the September 1960 meetings in all constitutional ports. The responsibility for Seafarers LOG policy is vested in an editorial board which consists of the executive board of the union. The executive board may delegate, from among its ranks, one individual to carry out this responsibility. throughout the city and were subject to arrest if found outside the preset boundaries. Cookie’s captain was hesitant to use the ship’s fuel for generating electricity and heat, as he knew it would be needed for the return voyage. He requested the port authorities to allow the ship to draw electricity from a Russian power line and was refused. It was a long and very cold nine months. While there were times during the war when I had concern for my safety, I would gladly do it again. When I first went to sea, I was a 16-year-old inner-city kid who had never left the New York area. There was a slogan, “Join the Navy and see the world.” Well, I couldn’t join the Navy but I did join the U.S. Merchant Marine and I did get to see the world…. Thinking back to that era, I believe the excitement, the thrill, of visiting an exotic port lessened my fear of being blown to smithereens by a Jap or German submarine. The old-timers were always ready to remind us that it was foolish to worry about what could happen because, if it did, it would be all over in a matter of seconds. They had witnessed other tankers hit by torpedoes. There would be a loud explosion, followed by a dark cloud of smoke and then nothing. Maybe a little froth on the water for a few seconds. “In all likelihood, the crew didn’t feel a thing.” As the years passed by, I was very fortunate – my ship dropped anchor in lagoons and tied up at piers in islands and countries that as a little boy I had only read and dreamed of visiting when reading back issues of National Geographic magazine. Each port that I visited, small or big, gave me a feeling of accomplishment. I went to England, Ireland, Italy, Holland, Belgium, Germany, Panama, French Morocco, Spain, Gibraltar, the Bahamian Islands, Korea, Japan, the Philippine Islands, Okinawa, the Marshall Islands, Admiralty Islands, Caroline Islands, New Guinea, New Zealand and Australia. This sense of satisfaction probably explains why I and the other teenage mariners who returned safely home at the end of World War II didn’t fight back when we were told we were not veterans and were not entitled to any benefits. Hey, we were still only 17 or 18 years old. We had the whole world in front of us. There was a popular song from that era – I’ll Get By – and that’s what we believed. In most states, if not all, 16-year-old kids are required to go to school. If they enlisted in the merchant marine in 1944, as their country asked them to, they must have quit school. “High School dropouts,” they’re called today. Someone, somewhere, should have said, “We owe these kids something. At the very least, let’s help them finish high school.” But no one did. We can sail any ocean, cross any river, give us the goods and we’ll deliver. Damn the submarines, we’re the men of the Merchant Marine. Ed Woods Atlanta, Georgia PAYMENT OF MONIES. No monies are to be paid to anyone in any official capacity in the SIU unless an official union receipt is given for same. Under no circumstances should any member pay any money for any reason unless he is given such receipt. In the event anyone attempts to require any such payment be made without supplying a receipt, or if a member is required to make a payment and is given an official receipt, but feels that he or she should not have been required to make such payment, this should immediately be reported to union headquarters. CONSTITUTIONAL RIGHTS AND OBLIGATIONS. Copies of the SIU Constitution are available in all union halls. All members should obtain copies of this constitution so as to familiarize themselves with its contents. Any time a member feels any other member or officer is attempting to deprive him or her of any constitutional right or obligation by any methods, such as dealing with charges, trials, etc., as well as all other details, the member so affected should immediately notify headquarters. EQUAL RIGHTS. All members are guaranteed equal rights in employment and as members of the SIU. These rights are clearly set forth in the SIU Constitution and in the contracts which the union has negotiated with the employers. Consequently, no member may be discriminated against because of race, creed, color, sex, national or geographic origin. If any member feels that he or she is denied the equal rights to which he or she is entitled, the member should notify union headquarters. SEAFARERS POLITICAL ACTIVITY DONATION — SPAD. SPAD is a separate segregated fund. Its proceeds are used to further its objects and purposes including, but not limited to, furthering the political, social and economic interests of maritime workers, the preservation and furthering of the American merchant marine with improved employment opportunities for seamen and boatmen and the advancement of trade union concepts. In connection with such objects, SPAD supports and contributes to political candidates for elective office. All contributions are voluntary. No contribution may be solicited or received because of force, job discrimination, financial reprisal, or threat of such conduct, or as a condition of membership in the union or of employment. If a contribution is made by reason of the above improper conduct, the member should notify the Seafarers International Union or SPAD by certified mail within 30 days of the contribution for investigation and appropriate action and refund, if involuntary. A member should support SPAD to protect and further his or her economic, political and social interests, and American trade union concepts. NOTIFYING THE UNION — If at any time a member feels that any of the above rights have been violated, or that he or she has been denied the constitutional right of access to union records or information, the member should immediately notify SIU President Michael Sacco at headquarters by certified mail, return receipt requested. The address is: Michael Sacco, President Seafarers International Union 5201 Auth Way July 2011 �65252_Seafarers:JUNE 2011 6/24/2011 8:21 AM Page 21 Paul Hall Center Upgrading Course Schedule The following is the schedule of courses at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md., for the next few months. All programs are geared to improving the job skills of Seafarers and to promoting the American maritime industry. Please note that this schedule may change to reflect the needs of the membership, the maritime industry and—in times of conflict—the nation’s security. Students attending any of these classes should check in the Saturday before their course’s start date. The courses listed here will begin promptly on the morning of the start dates. For classes ending on a Friday, departure reservations should be made for Saturday. Seafarers who have any questions regarding the upgrading courses offered at the Paul Hall Center may call the admissions office at (301) 994-0010. Title of Course Start Date Date of Completion Marine Electrician July 16 September 9 Title of Course ARPA August 26 November 7 July 22 November 18 August 26 September 9 July 23 August 20 STOS August 5 September 2 August 27 Radar renewal (one day) September 9 September 7 September 7 Radar Observer August 6 August 19 Tank Barge PIC October 8 October 14 Tanker Asst. Cargo DL BAPO FOWT July 23 August 5 Engine Department July 23 September 17 August 19 October 14 August 20 September 16 UPGRADING APPLICATION Name ____________________________________________________________________ Address __________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________ Telephone (Home)_________________________ (Cell)_________________________ Date of Birth ______________________________________________________________ Deep Sea Member ❏ Lakes Member ❏ Inland Waters Member ❏ If the following information is not filled out completely, your application will not be processed. Social Security #_______________________ Book # ____________________________ Seniority_____________________________ Department______________________ Home Port_____________________________________________________________ E-mail________________________________________________________________ Endorsement(s) or License(s) now held______________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________ Are you a graduate of the SHLSS/PHC trainee program? ❏ Yes ❏ No Have you attended any SHLSS/PHC upgrading courses? ❏ Yes ❏ No If yes, class # ______________________________________________________________ If yes, course(s) taken_____________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________________ July 2011 Steward Department July 9 October 8 Galley Operations/Advanced Galley Operations These modules start every Monday. August 27 Lifeboat July 9 October 1 August 12 October 28 August 20 GMDSS Welding July 16 October 1 July 16 November 12 Fast Rescue Boats July 30 Chief Steward October 15 ECDIS Machinist Date of Completion August 20 Bosun Recertification August 20 Start Date Deck Department Able Seaman Junior Engineer October 14 August 19 July 29 October 21 August 19 November 18 Chief Cook These modules start every other week. The most recent class began June 27. Advanced Firefighting Basic Firefighting/STCW Safety Upgrading Courses September 17 July 16 September 10 Government Vessels August 13 Medical Care Provider October 1 MSC Readiness Refresher Vessel Security Officer NOTICE: July 30 October 15 September 30 July 22 September 16 August 19 October 7 August 5 October 18 NMC Web Site is Vital Resource for Mariners The National Maritime Center (NMC), the licensing authority for the U.S. Coast Guard, offers a comprehensive web site covering mariner credentialing, medical guidelines and much more. The site features a wide range of applications and forms, deck- and engine-department exam information, lists of Coast Guardapproved courses and more. Seafarers are encouraged to check out the site at:http://www.uscg.mil/nmc/ Mariners may call the NMC at 1888-IASKNMC (1-888-427-5662). Operational hours are 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. EST, Monday through Friday. (The NMC is closed for all federal holidays.) Various email forms also are available through the NMC web site. With this application, COPIES of the following must be sent: One hundred and twentyfive (125) days seatime for the previous year, one day in the last six months prior to the date your class starts, USMMD (z-card) front and back or relevant pages of merchant mariner credential, front page of your union book indicating your department and seniority, qualifying seatime for the course if it is Coast Guard tested, 1995 STCW Certificate, valid SHBP Clinic Card and TWIC. COURSE ____________________________ START DATE _______________ ____________________________ _______________ ____________________________ ____________________________ ____________________________ DATE OF COMPLETION _______________ _______________ _______________ _______________ _______________ _______________ _______________ _______________ LAST VESSEL: __________________________________Rating: ______________ Date On: ___________________________ Date Off:________________________ SIGNATURE ________________________________ DATE___________________ NOTE: Transportation will be paid in accordance with the scheduling letter only if you present original receipts and successfully complete the course. If you have any questions, contact your port agent before departing for Piney Point. Not all classes are reimbursable.Return completed application to: Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education Admissions Office, P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674-0075; or fax to (301) 994-2189. The Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education is a private, non-profit, equal opportunity institution and admits students, who are otherwise qualified, of any race, nationality or sex. The school complies with applicable laws with regard to admission, access or treatment of students in its programs or activities. 7/11 Seafarers LOG 21 �65252_Seafarers:JUNE 2011 6/24/2011 8:22 AM Page 22 Paul Hall Center Classes Unlicensed Apprentice Water Survival Class 745 – Eleven Phase 1 unli- censed apprentices and two upgraders completed this 60-hour course April 15. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Vince Adolph, Jason Allen, Chivon Arnold, Lakisha Barnes, Valerio Bellezze, Daniel Coffman, Marc Costley, John Cragin, Priscilla Greene, Christopher Hughes, David Leader, Wadhah Mukbel and Adam Repko. Class Instructor Ben Cusic is at the far right. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Able Seaman – Twenty-one upgraders completed their requirements in the course April 29. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Shawn Bising, Matthew Caradimos, Curtis Church, Anthony Green Jr., Jonathan Green, Daniel Harris, Ricky Howard, Brandon Hubble, Ryan Landers, Kenneth LeDeoux, Curtis Lee II, Cory Mulligan, Shoal Nervo, Justin Pierce, Zachary Pollman, Ricky Rivera Martinez, Gavin Scott, Corey Shanley, Shaun Spencer, Stephen Warren II and Gary Youman. Bernabe Pelingon, their instructor is at the far right. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Government Vessels – Fifteen upgraders completed their training in this course April 29. Those graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Arkady Bichevsky, Daniel Coffman, John Coleman, Mark Hoffman, Peter Hokenson, Thomas Humpherys III, Hussein Hussein, Edgardo Ines, Ralph Kirby, Wadhah Mukbel, John Nersten, Angelo Schiraldi, Moses Scott IV, Peter Solis and Jose Torres. Tom Truitt, their instructor, is at the far left. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Government Vessels – Thirteen upgraders graduated from this course April 8. Completing their requirements and receiving certificates (above, in alphabetical order) were: Frank Battaglia, David Chance, Ricardo Dayrit, Lamont Faulks, Rosemary Glover, Korey Jackson, Ricky Langley, Carlton McMiller, John Noel, Gary Ramirez, Salah Saleh, Robert Scrivens and Kevin Youman. Class instructor Tom Truitt is sixth from the left. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Junior Engineer – Twenty four Seafarers completed the upgrading of their skills in this course April 29. Graduating and receiving certificates left, in alphabetical order) were: Talib Aekins, Antuan Barnes, Lennart Bergstrom, Michael Blue, Apolinario Calacal, Mario Dela Cruz, Virgilio Demegillo, Van Dixon, Ralph Garner, Mohsen Hubair, Brian Jackson, DeWayne Jacobs, Eric Martin, Frederick Nyarko, Vincente Ordonez, Robert Orloff III, Robert Rocanelli, Arthur Shaw, Amido Sindac, Peter Solis, Donato Surell, Scott Thompson, John White and Jimmie Williams. (Note: Not all are pictured.) BST – Sixteen Seafarers completed their training in this course April 11. Graduating (right, in alphabetical order) were: Magdy Balat, David Chance, Daniel Conzo, Hussein Hussein, Donald Irvine, Charles James, Thomas Moore, Paul Narro, Roger Nesbeth, Jimmy Ocot, Costica Oprisoru, Randall Rodgers, Peter Solis, Deralle Watson, Gregory White, and Alexander Young. Class Instructors Joe Zienda and Wayne Johnson are second from the left and at the far right respectively. 22 Seafarers LOG July 2011 �65252_Seafarers:JUNE 2011 6/24/2011 8:22 AM Page 23 Paul Hall Center Classes BAPO – Seventeen individuals, upgraders and Phase III unlicensed apprentices, completed this course April 29. Those graduating (left, in alphabetical order) were: Abdullah Alamri, Adam Bucalo, Edgar Castillo, Anthony Dell’Aquila, Joseph Griggs, Ross Halsted, Joshue Hammons, David Kabasinskas, Matthew Maynard, Antonio McAdams, Ronilo Monares, Amelia Ocampo, Michael Page, Dhahabi Quraish, Samuel Shuebrooks, Zachrey Stevenson and Samir Tarsha. Class Instructor Jay Henderson is at the far right. Advanced Refrigeration Container Maintenance – Twelve upgraders finished their requirements in the course May 6. Graduating and receiving certificates (above, in alphabetical order) were: Dennis Adjetey, Robin Bourgeois, Corey Downing, Joie Flesner, Joseph Grandinetti, Jeffrey Levie, Antoine Rainey, Rene Rosario, Trent Sterling, Jessie Turner, Philandar Walton and Richard Wright. Jay Henderson, their instructor, is at the far right. ARPA – Nine Seafarers completed this course April 29. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Reuben Brown, John Cappucci, Nicole Geideman, Gary Hirsch, Adel Irani, Enchantress Johnson, Karen Laycock, Raymond Maldonado and James Pearson. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Watchkeeping – Seven upgraders completed their training in this course Feb. 25. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Ray Adams Jr., Ron Boatwright Sr., Dominique Calvy, William Davis Jr., Dustin Marks, Felix Nunez and Hector Oritz. Joe Curtis, their instructor, is at the left. BST (HAWAII) - The following individuals (above, in no particular order) completed this course April 30 at the Seafarers Training Facility in Barbers Point, Hawaii: Robert Gonzalez, Rae Aguilera, Ryan Brady, Justin Challenger, Aretta Davis, Maximus Fuminaya, Preston Hadley, Matthew Hill, Olivia Kardos, Kevin Knight, Timothy Konick, Christopher Pahnlick, Hannah Perry, Brittany Samuels, Micah Stanton and Sylvia Taylor. July 2011 Specially Trained Ordinary Seaman – Seventeen individuals finished this course March 4. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Matthew Baptist, Robert Bryson III, Jeremy Cooke, Melissa Gooch, Marques Johnson, William Kane, Robert Mackey, David Marquez, Terry Mattison, Saleh Mohamed, Meree Mused, Bryan Page, Roman Pauley, Jonathan Scalsky, William Smith, Richard Swirtz and Robert Tlalka. Class Instructor Tom Truitt is at the far right. BST (HAWAII) - Nine individuals completed their training in this course May 7 at the Seafarers Hawaii-based training facility. Graduating (above, in no particular oder) were: Nancy Barnett, James Haywood, Stephanie Hernandez, Brianna Hernon, Corey Lowe, Patrick Mulligan, Cynthia Nieto, Katherine Pacifico and Michael Tompkins. Seafarers LOG 23 �65262_Seafarers_X2:JUNE 2011 6/27/2011 7:02 PM Page 24 Volume 73, Number 7 July 2011 Students Excel at Paul Hall Center Public Employees: Myths vs. Realities Pages 10-11 An early June stop at the SIU-affiliated Paul tices at the Piney Point, Md.-based campus. The Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education photos on this page were taken June 6-7 at the revealed the vibrancy of upgraders and appren- center. CROWLEY CREWS COMPLETE TRAINING – A number of Seafarers employed by Crowley took part in a two-day safety refresher course blending hands-on training and classroom instruction. Several of those mariners are shown in photos at left, right and immediately below. Successfully completing the class were Seafarers Raymond Petterson, John Figging, Anthony Willis, Susie Crawford, Robert Stone, Conrado Abinuman, Gregory Rivera, Delmas Price, Trevor Fouhey, Ronnie Boatwright, Todd Smith, Wesley Carey Jr., Paul Stanford, Ray Adams, Michael Morgan, Richard Salter, Jorge Solomon, David Massey and Scott Fletcher. FULL BOOKS PRESENTED – Seafarers Pamela Wilson (second from right) and Mayra Gines (third from right) received their full union books before the June membership meeting. The steward department members gathered with officials for this photo immediately after taking the union oath. Standing left to right are SIU VP Government Services Division Kermett Mangram, Philadelphia Port Agent Joe Baselice, Exec. VP Augie Tellez, Sec.-Treasurer David Heindel, President Michael Sacco, Gines, Wilson and VP Contracts George Tricker. SIGN OF DEDICATION – When Unlicensed Apprentice Joseph Dasteel (Class 744) saw an out- door sign for the UA program near the training and recreation center that he thought could be improved, he spoke up. When his offer to spend off-time tackling the project was accepted, he devoted hours to it and eventually finished the final strokes. After jokingly agreeing with a reporter’s lighthearted suggestion that the lesson is never to volunteer, Dasteel stated, “I was glad to have the opportunity to do something positive for the school.” EDUCATIONAL ACHIEVEMENT – Members Ray Fugit (fourth from left) and Kevin Stewart (third from right) each received a high school diploma prior to the membership meeting. They earned the diplomas through the academic department’s state-approved program. Congratulating them are (from left) VP Government Services Kermett Mangram, Port Agent Joe Baselice, President Michael Sacco, VP Contracts George Tricker, Exec. VP Augie Tellez and Sec.-Treasurer David Heindel. � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Seafarers Log Issues 2010-2019 Description An account of the resource Volumes LXXII-LXXXI of the Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Seafarers Log Digital Copies Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 2010-2019 Document A resource containing textual data. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre text. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource July 2011 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES SIU-CREWED PACIFIC TRACKER SUPPORTS CRUCIAL MISSILE DEFENSE AGENCY TEST STATE DEPARTMENT HOSTS MARITIME SECURITY FORUM SEAFARERS-AFFILIATED AMO OPENS NEW HQ UNION-CONTRACTED COMPANIES RECOGNIZED FOR SAFE OPERATIONS PENN MARITIME CONTRACT APPROVED CONGRESSMAN EXPRESS STRONG SUPPORT FOR JONES ACT SEAFARERS-CREWED HOSPITAL SHIP COMFORT CONTINUES HUMANITARIAN MISSION MARINERS APPROVE NEW NOAA CONTRACT SIU MEMBERS RATIFY 5-YEAR AGREEMENT COVERING 19 SHIPS SQUADRON ONE COMMANDER PRAISES MERCHANT MARINERS STATE DEPT. GROUP EXAMINES MARITIME SECURITY VATICAN URGES PROMPT RESPONSE TO PROBLEMS CREATED BY PIRACY EXPERTS RELEASE NEW REPORT ON ‘HUMAN COST’ OF PIRACY YEAR 2010 GOES DOWN AS ONE OF MOST VIOLENT PERIODS ON RECORD AMO CELEBRATES NEW HEADQUARTERS BUILDING MARINERS HONORED ACROSS U.S. NEW STAMPS HONOR U.S. MERCHANT MARINERS CREATIONS HIGHLIGHT FOUR VESSELS THAT HELPED MARK MARINER HISTORY LONGTIME UNION REP SHEEHAN RETIRES HQ OFFICIALS, SCHOOL VP MEET SEAFARERS IN FLORIDA PACIFIC TRACKER ASSISTS IN KEY MISSILE DEFENSE AGENCY TEST MARAD REPORT SAYS U.S. PORT CALLS GREW IN 2010 Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Seafarers Log Digital Copies Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 07/01/2011 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Newsprint Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context Vol. 73, No. 7 Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Seafarers Log 2011 Periodicals Seafarers Log http://www.seafarerslog.org/archives/files/original/8f041369bb46a0e1b07e7c6261c9f39e.pdf 1ada0a9e6a3fbcc4e8517a74c180581a PDF Text Text 65472_LOG 7/28/2011 6:23 PM Page 1 Volume 73, Number 8 August 2011 SIU Members Retain Key Jobs Maersk Line, LTD. Lands 2 DOD Contracts Seafarers-contracted Maersk Line, Limited recently won separate bids to operate five prepositioning ships and an ice-strengthened tanker. The prepositioning vessels include the USNS 2nd Lt. John P. Bobo (right) and USNS 1st Lt. Jack Lummus (below). The tanker – the M/T Jutal (below at right) – recently was purchased by Maersk and is being reflagged under the Stars and Stripes. The latter vessel is expected to sail on annual supply runs to Antarctica for the National Science Foundation and to Greenland for the Department of Defense in addition to providing worldwide bulk fuel support for DOD. Page 3. (USNS Bobo and USNS Lummus photos courtesy U.S. Navy) Crowley Crews Complete Safety Refresher Training At Paul Hall Center SIU members employed by union-contracted Crowley Maritime Corporation are participating in a specially designed safety training course at the union-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, located in Piney Point, Md. The course is two days in duration, satisfies U.S. Coast Guard Basic Safety Training Requirements (refresher) and is designed for all licensed and unlicensed Crowley mariners. The training, which is supported by the SIU, consists of classroom as well as hands-on training in personal safety and social responsibilities, personal survival and elementary first aid. In the photo at left, members from one of the classes hone their skills in the proper use and deployment of the lifering while aboard the school’s training vessel, the John F. Fay. For related story and more photos, see Pages 12-13. SIU Members, Companies Honored for Safety Pages 4, 8, 9, 19 Lakes Contracts Approved Page 4 AOTOS Honorees Announced Page 6 �65472_LOG_X 8/2/2011 6:17 AM Page 2 P re s i d e n t ’ s R e p o r t Key Maritime Issues Discussed with Senator Credit Crews, Companies for Safety We had no particular plans to spotlight safety in this edition of the LOG, but it turned into an unofficial theme by the time we were ready to go to press. I think it’s a great compliment to our members, contracted companies and affiliated school in Piney Point, Md., that through the course of normal reporting, so many stories this month reflect our ongoing commitment to safety. For instance, we have individual mariners from Horizon Lines ships and Maersk Line, Limited vessels who recently earned safety awards. SIU-contracted companies including Crowley, Keystone and Liberty Maritime are scheduled to receive safety honors later this year from a key maritime trade association. The U.S. Michael Sacco Navy recently recognized the safety efforts of SIU Government Services Division members from the USS Emory Land and USNS Flint as well as those of private-sector members from the Ocean Shipholdings-operated USNS Pomeroy. Last but not least, Crowley crews are completing a specially designed safety refresher class at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education that undoubtedly will boost an already dependable fleet. Again, that’s just a snapshot of current events, but it clearly reflects how seriously we all take shipboard safety. On the job, nothing is more important than the wellbeing of our members and their shipmates. At the same time, we of course have serious responsibilities to safeguard the vessels themselves as well as the environment. Working cooperatively with our operators, our affiliated school and our partners from the military, we’re getting the job done safely and upholding what I believe is a well-earned reputation as the most reliable, best-trained crews in the world. Keep up the great work! Maintaining SIU Jobs Our lead story this month concerns retaining jobs aboard a handful of prepositioning ships and on a newly acquired tanker that’s replacing the USNS Matthiesen. Almost without exception, my favorite articles are those that announce new SIU-contracted tonnage and additional jobs, but it’s also vital that we maintain the good jobs we already have. That’s the case with these six MSC ships, and it’s not something to be taken for granted. While I am 100 percent confident in the new operator, a word of thanks and congratulations is in order to American Overseas Marine, which managed the prepos for many years. In that role, AMSEA was dependable and first class all the way, and I know they’ll continue to be every bit as reliable with their remaining ships. Condolences No one understands the expression “small world” better than those of us in the maritime industry. In our line of work, the planet doesn’t necessarily seem all that big, and sailing to another country can be the mariner’s version of a commute. From that perspective alone, I feel I can speak for all Seafarers when I say we were horrified and deeply saddened by the recent tragedy in Norway. To all the Norwegian people, and in particular to our brothers and sisters from the Norwegian Seafarers Union, I extend our heartfelt condolences. The senseless acts of the madman who committed the murders are impossible to understand, no matter how much he wrote about it. We stand by the NSU and all the other citizens of Norway and wish you peace and recovery. Volume 73, Number 8 During a late-June meeting in the nation’s capital, SIU officials and the union’s legislative director discussed vital American maritime issues with Sen. Daniel Inouye (D-Hawaii) (third from left), a longtime backer of the U.S. Merchant Marine. Pictured from left to right are SIU Political and Legislative Director Brian Schoeneman, SIU President Michael Sacco, Senator Inouye and SIU Exec. VP Augie Tellez. Institute Cites Jones Act’s Value To America’s National Security A Virginia-based organization dedicated to promoting national security and democracy recently published an article supporting a vital U.S. maritime law known as the Jones Act. Written by Daniel Goure, Ph.D., the article is headlined “Jones Act Still Important to U.S. National Security.” Goure, who has held senior positions in both the private sector and the U.S. Government, pointed out, “The Jones Act’s goals are, if anything, more important today than when the act was promulgated (in 1920). The United States is a trading nation and a naval power. The overwhelming majority of U.S. military equipment and supplies is moved by ship. U.S. Merchant Mariners moved 90 percent of the combat cargo and supplies used by the military in the Iraq war. The maintenance of a fleet of U.S.-flag cargo vessels is vital to ensuring that the military can respond to any wartime need. In addition, the Act helps to maintain a pool of U.S. merchant sailors who can be called upon to man governmentowned sealift ships that are reactivated to support the wartime sealift effort.” The Jones Act mandates that cargo moving from one U.S. port to another be carried aboard vessels that are crewed, flagged, owned and built American. According to a study last year by PricewaterhouseCoopers, Jones Act vessels generate nearly 500,000 family-sustaining jobs and provide a yearly payroll exceeding $29 billion. Some of the law’s many supporters have pointed out that the basic requirements of the Jones Act have been the foundation of American maritime policy since 1817. Activity related to this law generates more than $100 billion in economic output and contributes $11.4 billion in federal, state and local taxes. A prominent U.S. maritime trade association said that without the Jones Act fleet, “the American economy would sputter and fail.” Goure, who among other roles is a national security military analyst for NBC, noted that the law helps maintain America’s shipbuilding capability. He also asserted that Jones Act provisions support “both homeland security and environmental safety. The inland waterway system allows ships to move deep into the nation’s heartland – up the Mississippi, across the Great Lakes and into the Chesapeake.” In other words, without the Jones Act, large numbers of foreign crews could enter American waterways on foreign-owned vessels and essentially sail wherever navigable waterways exist. The Lexington Institute’s self-described goal is “to inform, educate, and shape the public debate of national priorities in those areas that are of surpassing importance to the future success of democracy, such as national security, education reform, tax reform, immigration and federal policy concerning science and technology. By promoting America’s ability to project power around the globe we not only defend the homeland of democracy, but also sustain the international stability in which other free-market democracies can thrive.” The organization is far from alone in supporting the Jones Act. The law enjoys strong bipartisan backing and has been supported by every U.S. president in modern history. The U.S. Navy also has been outspoken in its support of the law. Despite such backing, the Jones Act came under attack during the Deepwater Horizon cleanup. Critics claimed – baselessly – that the law had prevented using foreign help. The administration and the national incident response commander, U.S. Coast Guard Adm. Thad Allen, refuted those false claims, and the official government report on the spill response later confirmed that the Jones Act in no way slowed the cleanup, nor did it stop America from accepting (and paying for) foreign assistance. August 2011 The SIU online: www.seafarers.org The Seafarers LOG (ISSN 1086-4636) is published monthly by the Seafarers International Union; Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU, AFLCIO; 5201 Auth Way; Camp Springs, MD 20746. Telephone (301) 899-0675. Periodicals postage paid at Southern Maryland 20790-9998. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to the Seafarers LOG, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. Communications Director, Jordan Biscardo; Managing Editor/Production, Jim Guthrie; Assistant Editor, Paddy Lehane; Photographers, Mike Hickey and Harry Gieske; Administrative Support, Misty Dobry. Copyright © 2011 Seafarers International Union, AGLIWD. All Rights Reserved. The Seafarers International Union engaged an environmentally friendly printer for the production of this newspaper. Jones Act vessels like the SIU-contracted tanker Overseas Anacortes help maintain a reliable manpower pool of well-trained, U.S. citizen sefarers who are available to support our troops. 2 Seafarers LOG August 2011 �65472_LOG 7/28/2011 4:43 PM Page 3 Maersk Line, Limited is reflagging the double-hulled, ice-strengthened tanker M/T Jutal (above) under the Stars and Stripes. Civilian-crewed military support ships including the USNS Williams, shown conducting an at-sea offload during an exercise, are strategically positioned around the globe. (U.S. Navy photo by MC2 Brian P. Caracci) Union Retains Jobs as Maersk Wins Contracts Operating Agreements Awarded for Prepos, Ice-Strengthened Tanker Two recent announcements by the U.S. Department of Defense signaled ongoing job security for SIU members, as Seafarers-contracted Maersk Line, Limited (MLL) won separate bids to operate five prepositioning ships and an ice-strengthened tanker. The award for operation and maintenance of the prepositioning ships starts next month and includes options lasting until September 2015. It covers the container and roll-on/roll-off ships USNS 2nd Lt. John P. Bobo, USNS Sgt. William R. Button, USNS 1st Lt. Baldomero Lopez, USNS 1st Lt. Jack Lummus and USNS Pfc. Dewayne T. Williams. The tanker agreement is a long-term time charter (five years including options) for an ice-strengthened vessel that will be able to deliver fuel worldwide and that is expected to serve the research center at McMurdo Station, Antarctica, and Thule Air Base, Greenland. Maersk has purchased and is flagging in a 2004-built vessel (the M/T Jutal) that will be renamed Maersk Peary in honor of the late U.S. Navy Admiral Robert Peary, a famous arctic explorer. SIU Vice President Contracts George Tricker stressed the significance of the awards going to a Seafarers-contracted company. Considering the extremely competitive bidding process and the nation’s ongoing economic woes, retaining these shipboard jobs is a significant win, he said. Following the prepositioning ship announcement, Scott Cimring, Maersk’s senior director of government ship management, stated, “We are extremely honored and proud of this award. Winning this contract once again after our resubmission is a true testament of MSC’s trust in our capability and performance. We feel confident in our ability to support our customer’s requirements by drawing from our extensive operational and technical experience.” The original awards for these five prepositioning vessels and five others (the USNS LCPL Roy M. Wheat, USNS GYSGT Fred W. Stockham, USNS Sgt. Matej Kocak, PFC Eugene A. Obregon and USNS Maj. Stephen W. Pless) went to Maersk a little more than a year ago, following a bidding process which itself lasted longer than a year. However, protests were filed, and rebids eventually were accepted. Earlier this year, Maersk again won contracts for the Wheat and Stockham. At press time, no announcements had been made concerning the Kocak, Obregon or Pless. Collectively, those 10 vessels make up roughly one third of the U.S. Military Sealift Command’s prepositioning fleet. They are deployed to strategic locations around the globe carrying U.S. Marine Corps cargo including ammunition, tanks, food and medical supplies. The materiel is ready for quick delivery ashore whenever needed. Overall, the prepositioning fleet con- sists of U.S. government-owned ships, privately owned vessels chartered by the military, and ships activated from the U.S. Maritime Administration’s Ready Reserve Force (RRF). All are crewed by civilian mariners. Meanwhile, following the tanker award, the company pointed out that it first began supporting MSC in 1983, and since then “we have extended our ship management, technical and chartering services across the U.S. government.” Dave Harriss, Maersk’s director of ship management and chartering, said, “MLL’s experience managing and operating over 90 vessels of various types can give MSC confidence in our ability to complete the mission, and we are pleased to have the opportunity to support MSC on this unique service. Our success is derived from a focus on quality, competitive pricing, technical expertise, safety culture, and commitment to exceed customer expectations.” MLL is based in Norfolk, Va. Aboard New Crowley Tug SIU VP Gulf Coast Dean Corgey (fifth from left in group photo) last month met with boatmen on the new Crowley tug Legacy in Long Beach, Calif. The state-of-the-art, 148-foot-long boat will be paired with a barge to form an ATB, and is expected to operate in the Gulf Coast region. August 2011 Seafarers LOG 3 �65472_LOG 7/28/2011 4:43 PM Page 4 Members Approve Great Lakes Contracts New Work Agreements Feature Noteworthy Gains for SIU Crews SIU members sailing on the Great Lakes have ratified several new contracts, securing health benefits, pay increases, and other gains for years to come. Members at Great Lakes Towing Company, American Steamship Company, Key Lakes, Inc., Key Lakes II, Key Lakes IV, Port City Steamship Services, Inc., Port City Marine Services, Inc., Inland Lakes Management, Inc., and Erie Sand and Gravel Company all recently finalized and ratified new agreements. Members at Great Lakes Towing Company, based in Cleveland, inked an agreement that will last until July 2015. Mariners at the company work aboard harbor towing tugs that operate throughout the Great Lakes. In addition to maintaining CorePlus health benefits (the highest level available through the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan), the agreement also includes pay increases every year and an increase in company contributions to the Seafarers Pension Plan. The company also supports Seafarers taking advantage of training opportunities at the Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md. The negotiating committee was led by Vice President Great Lakes Tom Orzechowski and Algonac Port Agent Todd Brdak. SIU members at American Steamship Company, who sail on 11 dry bulk carrying vessels all over the Great Lakes, have signed a contract that is valid until July 2016. Representing the union during negotiations were Orzechowski, Brdak, Assistant Vice President Bryan Powell, Joliet Port Agent Chad Partridge, and Reps. Don Thornton and Monte Burgett. The agreement maintains CorePlus health benefits as well as pension and vacation plan benefits, and opportunities for upgrading at the Paul Hall Center. Additionally, members gained increases in safety bonuses as well as employer contributions to the Seafarers Money Purchase Pension Plan. The agreement also stipulates yearly wage increases. Operating out of Duluth, Minn., Key Lakes and Key Lakes II (which are subsidiaries of Keystone Shipping Company) signed an agreement with the union that is set to last until June 2015. Seafarers maintained CorePlus benefits and pension contributions from the company, and received contractual support for those mariners interested in upgrading their skills at the union-affiliated school in Piney Point. The negotiating committee consisted of Orzechowski, Powell, Brdak, Partridge, Thornton, and Burgett. Key Lakes IV, also operated by Keystone, has a nearly identical agreement that is valid through June 2016. Port City Steamship Services, Inc., which operates the SIU-crewed cement hauler the SS St. Mary’s Challenger, has ratified its contract. In addition to maintaining CorePlus health benefits and company support for the pension plan, the contract also increases the safety bonus vacation pay and guarantees incremental wage increases through 2015. The negotiations were conducted by Orzechowski, Powell, Brdak, Partridge, Thornton, and Burgett on behalf of the members. The company also supports Seafarers who wish to upgrade at the Piracy Attacks Increase The International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) International Maritime Bureau’s (IMB) Piracy Reporting Centre has revealed that pirate attacks on the world’s seas increased significantly during the first half of the year. Attacks totaled 266 in the first six months of 2011, up from 196 incidents in the same period last year, the London-based agency stated in a July 14 news release. More than 60 percent of the attacks were by Somali pirates, a majority of which were in the Arabian Sea area, said the report. As of June 30, Somali pirates were holding 20 vessels and 420 crew, and demanding ransoms of millions of dollars for their release. “In the last six months, Somali pirates attacked more vessels than ever before and they’re taking higher risks,” said IMB Director Pottengal Mukundan. “This June, for the first time, pirates fired on ships in rough seas in the Indian Ocean during the monsoon season. In the past, they would have stayed away in such difficult conditions. Masters should remain vigilant.” In the first six months of this year, many of the attacks have been east and northeast of the Gulf of Aden, the release said. This is an area frequented by crude oil tankers sailing from the Arabian Gulf, as well as other traffic sailing into the Gulf of Aden. Since May 20 there have been 14 vessels attacked in the Southern Red Sea. “It is necessary that shipboard protection measures are in place as they sail through this area,” said Mukundan. But although Somali pirates are more active— 163 attacks this year up from 100 in the first six months of 2010—they managed to hijack fewer ships: 21 in the first half of 2011 compared with 27 in the same period last year. This, the report says, is both thanks to increased ship hardening and to the actions of international naval forces to The latest figures show that attempted pirate attacks are up, but counter-piracy measures are improving. In this mid-July photo taken in the Gulf of Aden, a visit, board, search and seizure team assigned to the guided-missile cruiser USS Anzio climbs into a rigid-hull inflatable boat to inspect a suspicious vessel. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Bryan) 4 Seafarers LOG disrupt pirate groups off the east coast of Africa. “It is vital that this naval presence be sustained or increased,” the report asserted. Somali pirates took 361 mariners hostage and kidnapped 13 in the first six months of 2011, according to the report. Worldwide, 495 seafarers were taken hostage. Pirates killed seven people and injured 39. Ninety-nine vessels were boarded, 76 fired upon and 62 thwarted attacks were reported. Ships, including oil and chemical tankers, are increasingly being attacked with automatic weapons and rocket-propelled grenade launchers. Whereas five years ago pirates were just as likely to brandish a knife as a gun, this year guns were used in 160 attacks and knives in 35. In a related development, the Contact Group on Piracy off the Coast of Somalia convened in New York July 14. Representatives from member states including the U.S. discussed various international efforts to address the scourge of piracy in the Gulf of Aden and Somali Basin region, including: Naval counter-piracy operations, Efforts to strengthen the region’s capacity for prosecution and incarceration of pirates, The importance of self-protection measures by commercial vessels during transit in high-risk zones, and The need for a comprehensive response to address the ongoing instability in Somalia which is one of the underlying causes of Somali piracy. The body also established a new working group to coordinate international efforts to identify and disrupt the financial networks of pirate leaders and their financiers. The SIU remains active in domestic and international forums aimed at protecting crews and eliminating piracy. Paul Hall Center. Port City Marine Services, Inc., which along with Port City Steamship operates out of Muskegon, Mich., also came to an agreement with SIU members who sail aboard the ITB Prentice Brown, valid through 2016. That agreement includes an option to participate in the Seafarers 401(k), as well as maintaining CorePlus, pension, and vacation benefits and access to the Paul Hall Center. SIU members who work with Inland Lakes Management, Inc. have finalized their contract which is good through 2016. They, too, have maintained CorePlus benefits, Seafarers Pension Plan and Seafarers Vacation Plan benefits, and access to upgrading courses in Piney Point, Md. The contract also calls for annual pay raises. The negotiations were led by Orzechowski, Brdak, and Thornton. Lastly, mariners employed with Erie Sand and Gravel Company, based out of Erie, Pa., ratified a contract that includes wage increases for 2011. SIU members sail aboard the dredge MV St. John on Lake Erie. The negotiations for this pact were led by Orzechowski, Brdak, and Burgett. Crowley, Keystone, Liberty Maritime Earn American Maritime Safety Awards, Will Receive in New York Three SIU-contracted companies are slated to receive safety awards later this year in New York. Liberty Maritime Corporation, Keystone Shipping Co., and Crowley Maritime Corporation will be recognized by American Maritime Safety, Inc. (AMS) during the organization’s annual membership event and safety awards ceremony, which is scheduled to take place Oct. 27 at the Yale University Club. Liberty Maritime will receive the AMS Quality Ship Management Award; Keystone has earned the Responsible Vessel Carrier Award; and Crowley will be presented with the Safe Working Practices Award. AMS President Louis Meltz stated, “These three companies have demonstrated a strong commitment to protecting the marine environment, and have been proactive in implementing quality control programs that serve to improve marine safety and vessel operations. AMS is pleased to recognize these organizations for their efforts in working to enhance safety and protect our marine environment.” AMS is an association of more than 400 vessel owners and operators. It was founded in 1988 to facilitate the maritime industry’s compliance with U.S. Coast Guard regulations and international marine safety protocols. In announcing this year’s awards, AMS said they are given “in recognition of these organizations’ commitment to implementing innovative quality control and safety management systems, as well as crew member training programs, that serve to enhance the safe navigation and operation of vessels calling in U.S. ports, and which go beyond the minimal environmental compliance standards established by the U.S. Coast Guard and various State enforcement agencies.” Participants at this year’s ceremony will include representatives from the Coast Guard, the U.S. Department of Transportation and the National Transportation Safety Board, among others. SHBP Releases Updated Guide For Active Members An updated version of the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan (SHBP) guide for active members is available in PDF format on the SIU web site, www.seafarers.org. The guide is posted in the “Member Benefits” section. From there, click on the Seafarers Benefits Plan tab and then the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan tab. The link to the updated guide is on the SHBP page. August 2011 �65472_LOG 7/28/2011 4:43 PM Page 5 Proposed NLRB Rules Aim to Protect Workers’ Rights The National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) has announced a proposal that will change the way workers and employers schedule, conduct, and receive results from union representation elections. Hearings took place in Washington, D.C., on July 18-19 which featured members of the business, labor, and legal communities who voiced their opinions on the proposed rule changes. With the proposed system, election processes would be streamlined; unnecessary and time-consuming litigation would be limited; and election, registration, documentation and results would be made more easily available through the use of technology. The new rules would force employers to provide union organizers with an accurate contact list of the employees working at job site, including telephone and email information. This allows union organizers and workers interested in forming a union to be able to talk freely, on personal time, about forming a union. Because organizers can be banned from the premises during working hours, this would give workers interested in forming a union fair and reasonable access to other union members, organizers, and their fellow workers without fear of retribution or intimidation which, according to several of the experts speaking before the NLRB, is commonplace during organizing drives. The second major component of the new rules would clearly define and schedule union elections. Under the current system, employers have a virtually unlimited means of delaying elections (for example, filing lawsuits), giving them more time to bash the union or intimidate workers. “With the time it takes to build support for union representation, the employer has more than sufficient time to try and persuade the employee that they will take care of them,” said Scott Pedigo, president of Utility Workers Local 304 in West Virginia. “The additional time provided by the present rules greatly improves an employer’s chances of success simply by working the system.” The new rules would make it clear when the election is to be conducted and not allow either side to engage in timewasting litigation. Ultimately, the new rules would provide a more democratic and fair system for choosing union representation. AFL-CIO President Richard Trumka supported the proposals but indicated that they should be the first step of many in reforming the nation’s labor laws and protecting the opportunity for workers to obtain collective bargaining rights. The rules, according to Trumka “appear to be a common-sense approach to clean up an outdated system and help ensure that working women and men can make their own choice about whether to form a union. When workers want to vote on a union, they should get a fair chance to vote. That’s a basic right.” The NLRB’s proposals have been received positively by members of Congress, who see the new rules as a positive step towards facilitating middle-class growth. “[The proposed rule] would help give workers the same ability to bargain for wages and benefits now enjoyed by CEOs, whose pay has skyrocketed while their employees continue to struggle,” said Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid (DNev.). “The NLRB took an important step toward preserving workplace fairness by proposing new rules that promote equality and efficiency in union elections,” said Sen. Charles Schumer (D- N.Y.). “These common-sense rules will level the playing field and help bring more American men and women into the middle class.” Sen. Dan Akaka (D-Hawaii) agrees, pointing out that the current system is a hindrance to worker’s rights and that a change is needed for the future. “Workers, many of whom are struggling during these difficult economic times, deserve the right to decide if they wish to join a union without delay or intimidation,” said Akaka. “This common sense proposal will protect that right, and will make the private sector union election process more efficient and less costly.” The proposed rule changes, if enacted, make the future seem fairer for America’s workers, according to Trumka, and the current methods are in need of an overhaul. “Our current system has become a broken, bureaucratic maze that stalls and stymies workers’ choices,” Trumka said. Op-Ed Article Illuminates Labor Federation Strongly Board’s Boeing Complaint Advocates Job Training, Critics Claim Company’s Motive Illegal An op-ed article published in The Washington Post has shed light on a disconcerting conflict between Boeing, the aerospace manufacturer, and its workers. The article, written by Cornell University professor Kate Bronfenbrenner, provides some clear evidence that shows Boeing violated a fundamental labor law in moving its 787 Dreamliner manufacturing facility from Washington state to South Carolina and opines that the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) was right in bringing a complaint against the company. The allegations of unfair labor practices by the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM), the union that represents the Washington state workers, began after Boeing announced it would be moving its Dreamliner operations to South Carolina in 2009. South Carolina, a so-called “right to work” state, has very few protections for workers and is a long-standing antiunion stronghold. Boeing argues that because starting pay is lower in that state, the company stands to remain competitive and increase its profits. Subsequently, the company decided to build a $750 million facility there and hire low-wage, non-union labor. The NLRB and the IAM allege, however, that expanded profits are not the true motivation for the move. Instead, the company is moving operations to retaliate against the IAM and its members for engaging in strikes against the company for better pay and working conditions. “Much as our society has decided that increased profits or competitiveness cannot justify a policy of age discrimination, it is against the law to retaliate against workers for engaging in protected concerted activity such as strikes, as the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers local in Washington state did for nearly 60 days in 2008,” according to Bronfenbrenner. August 2011 It was this action that Bronfenbrenner and the NLRB argue is the true, and illegal, motivation by the company to move. “In its October 2009 quarterly conference call to shareholders, Boeing used unequivocal language when it proposed moving work on the 787 Dreamliner to South Carolina because of ‘strikes happening every three to four years in Puget Sound,’” Bronfenbrenner continued. “In a videotaped interview with the Seattle Times in March 2010, Boeing executive Jim Albaugh said that ‘the overriding factor [in choosing South Carolina] was not the business climate. And it was not the wages we are paying today. . . . It was that we can’t afford to have a work stoppage every three years.’” Critics of the NLRB’s action claim that reprimanding or punishing a company for moving in search of greater profits is somehow antiprosperity and anti-growth. However, the NLRB’s decision to pursue the complaint has seemingly been made by the actions and the publicly stated motivations of the leadership of Boeing. Threats of job loss, plant closures, and outsourcing have been a longstanding method of union-busting by companies. This has been compounded by free trade agreements that disregard workers’ rights, so-called right-to-work laws, and other anti-union and anti-worker legislation passed in recent years. Bronfenbrenner argues that the NLRB is setting an important precedent by taking on Boeing for its illegal activities. “Plant closures and threatened closings keep workers insecure and companies unaccountable,” said Bronfenbrenner. “If the NLRB did not take on such cases, it would cede to employers unilateral control over a large swath of the U.S. workplace. In holding Boeing accountable, its members are taking on a trend that should have been dealt with long ago.” Infrastructure Investment With the economy still struggling to regain its footing, the nation’s largest labor federation has announced its commitment to getting American workers back on the job through infrastructure investment and job training. The AFL-CIO, a federation of labor unions including the SIU, made the major announcement during the Clinton Global Initiative meeting this June in Chicago. The announcement made by AFL-CIO President Richard Trumka outlined the federation’s goal of bringing together various groups, including public and private investors to partner with labor to invest in large-scale projects that will create jobs for middleclass working families. In addition, according to Trumka, investing in our nation’s infrastructure now will have important long-term effects as well, including benefits to the environment and addressing our energy issues. “We at the AFL-CIO believe that together, with our partners in business and government, we can profitably invest significant resources to make America more competitive and energy-efficient,” said Trumka. “The AFL-CIO and our 55 member unions and 12 million members are in the business of solving America’s problems. Here’s one place where we can help, and that’s what we intend to do, starting right now.” The plan outlines what have been described as some bold goals, including working together with business and government to obtain at least $10 billion in new funding for infrastructure projects within the next five years. In addition, the AFL-CIO is pledging $20 million of labor movementaffiliated funds to revamp its headquarters in Washington, D.C., using union labor and energy-efficient materials. One of the keystones of the call to action is worker training. The AFL-CIO advocates training 40,000 workers in high-skilled, green construction technologies. AFL-CIO Building and Construction Trades Department President Mark Ayers is among those leading the push for these important advancements. “The time is now to become intensely focused on the creation of jobs and America’s Building Trades unions are ready, willing and able to work with any and all partners to map out a multi-year plan of infrastructure investment and make it the Rich Trumka President, AFL-CIO centerpiece of an ongoing economic recovery program,” said Ayers. “Such investments represent a tremendous source of economic growth that would generate comparable levels of private investment and provide millions of new jobs for American skilled craft workers.” The need for increased spending on infrastructure and the subsequent job growth goes beyond one type of job or one type of worker, according to the federation. Workers from all sectors have a stake in the future of the country, especially in getting as many Americans back to work as possible, labor officials pointed out. “We need to find new and smart ideas to both create jobs and rebuild our country’s infrastructure,” said American Federation of Teachers (AFT) President Randi Weingarten. “Investing public pension funds, when done prudently, may be an avenue to do just that. All of us need to be engaged in forming partnerships that will create thousands of new jobs, revitalize our communities and make our country more competitive.” While the nation’s economic partners are struggling to get things on track, America’s workers and the American labor movement are ready to take the steps necessary to turn the economy around, Trumka concluded. Seafarers LOG 5 �65472_LOG 7/28/2011 5:04 PM Page 6 AOTOS Honorees Will Receive Accolades in NY United Seamen’s Service Salutes General McNabb, Henry, Somerville The United Seamen’s Service (USS) in late June announced that its 2011 Admiral of the Ocean Sea Awards (AOTOS) will be presented to Gen. Duncan McNabb, commander, U.S. Transportation Command; James L. Henry, chairman and president of the Transportation Institute; Robert D. Somerville, chairman of ABS (formerly the American Bureau of Shipping). The prestigious awards are scheduled to be presented Oct. 28 in New York City. The USS also announced that a special AOTOS recognition plaque will be presented to Capt. George Quick, former president of the Association of Maryland Pilots. “We are so proud to be able to honor labor, military and service providers who represent strong leadership in the maritime industry. They are being recognized for their significant contributions and important ship services to American seafarers, vessels and American commerce,” said Richard Hughes, chairman of the USS AOTOS Committee and president of the International Longshoremen’s Association, AFL-CIO. General McNabb is the commander of the U.S. Transportation Command (TRANSCOM), the single manager for global air, land and sea transportation and the world’s largest shipper for the Department of Defense. A command pilot, he has amassed more than 5,600 flying hours in transport and rotary wing aircraft. He graduated from the U.S. Air Force Academy in 1974. General McNabb, a staunch supporter of the U.S. Merchant Marine, has held command and staff positions at squadron, group, wing, and major command and Department of Defense levels and has more than 20 awards, recognitions and achievements. General McNabb’s staff assignments have been a variety of planning, programming and logistical duties. These include serving as the deputy chief of staff for plans and programs on the Air Staff and chairman of the Air Force Board having oversight of all Air Force programs. He also served as the director for logistics on the Joint Staff where he was responsible for operational logistics and strategic mobility support to the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff and the secretary of Defense. James Henry has played an important role in virtually every major initiative in United States maritime policy since he Gen. Duncan McNabb Commander U.S. TRANSCOM James Henry Chairman and President Transportation Institute Robert Somerville Chairman ABS assumed the presidency of the Transportation Institute in 1987 and became its chairman in 1990. He played a particularly key role in protecting the Jones Act when it came under attack in the mid-1990s. Henry is also chairman of the National Defense Transportation Association’s Military Sealift Committee and chairman preserve the U.S. Jones Act fleet and develop a maritime policy that ensures a viable ocean transportation capability (and the shipboard jobs that go with it). Most recently, the institute advocated for the U.S. Jones Act fleet to play a critical role in the BP oil spill cleanup as well as for adequate channel and harbor depth within the Great Lakes. Serving as director of the ABS Group of Companies, Inc., Somerville’s distinguished maritime career includes 40 years with ABS in various capacities. Prior to joining ABS in 1970, he served as a seagoing engineer and gained shipyard experience at Newport News, at the time the largest shipbuilder in the world. In addition to the three AOTOS recipients, Capt. Quick will receive the AOTOS plaque honoring his many years in the industry, particularly his activity in the pilot sector. He is a 1951 graduate from the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy. All proceeds from the AOTOS event benefit USS community services abroad for the U.S. Merchant Marine, seafarers of all nations, and U.S. government and military overseas. The recipients will share the evening with a group of American mariners who will be honored for acts of bravery at sea. SIU President Michael Sacco is the event’s chairman for 2011. The United Seamen’s Service is a nonprofit agency established in 1942. It operates centers in eight foreign ports in Europe, Asia, and Africa and in the Indian Ocean, and also provides seagoing libraries to American vessels through its affiliate, the American Merchant Marine Library Association. “We are so proud to be able to honor labor, military and service providers who represent strong leadership in the maritime industry. They are being recognized for their significant contributions and important ship services to American seafarers, vessels and American commerce.” ---Richard Hughes, chairman of the USS AOTOS Committee and president of the International Longshoremen’s Association, AFL-CIO. of the United States Maritime Coalition. In 2005, he was awarded the Vincent T. Hirsh Maritime Award for Outstanding Leadership from the Navy League of the United States. In 2007, he was the recipient of the esteemed National Transportation Award from National Defense Transportation Association (NDTA) during its annual forum in Charleston, S.C. At the Transportation Institute, Henry has played a leading role in the effort to DHS Unveils Plan To Repair, Upgrade Maritime Coordination The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) recently announced a plan to implement a major overhaul of its maritime operations system. The Maritime Operations Coordination (MOC) plan is aimed at improving security in our nation’s waterways and ports by increasing the cooperation between different agencies in response to threats, according to an early-July announcement by the agency. In addition to protecting ports of entry into the U.S. and protecting our inland waterways, the goal of the MOC plan is also to ensure that vital trade routes are secured from possible threats. Trade routes, ports and waterways are monitored and protected by a variety of government agencies, including the U.S. Coast Guard (USCG), U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), and the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) departments, in addition to others. A weakness, as pointed 6 Seafarers LOG The American Bureau of Shipping (now ABS) promotes the security of life, property and the natural environment primarily through the development and verification of standards for the design, construction and operational maintenance of marine-related facilities. Robert Somerville has led the global agency consisting of more than 3,000 employees, serving as its chief executive officer until April 2011. He now serves as chairman of ABS. out by the DHS, is that these agencies have been operating too independently, creating potential lapses in security and responses to threats and possible terrorist actions. The MOC plan would alleviate many of these weaknesses, according to Adm. Robert Papp, commandant of the USCG. “As America’s maritime first responder, the Coast Guard works closely with our fellow DHS components and security partners to deter and respond to threats in our ports, along our coasts, and in waters of U.S. interest,” said Papp. “This plan will combine resources from across DHS to strengthen our ability to protect our nation’s global trade and our citizens.” The plan calls for increased coordination through information sharing, joint planning, and intelligence integration between departments. Due to the unique challenges facing maritime security, these new measures are of considerable significance to ensuring that the country’s waterways remain secure, the DHS reported. “With the signing of the MOC plan, we will be able to better coordinate and collaborate with federal agencies in order to disrupt and dismantle criminal organizations who wish to do us harm,” said ICE Director John Morton. “ICE’s Homeland Security Investigations’ unique law enforcement authorities will assist DHS components in countering maritime threats effectively and efficiently.” The MOC plan has also received praise from legislators who see maritime security as a vital, but sometimes overlooked, segment of the fight for national security. Rep. Candice Miller (R-Mich.), chair of the House Subcommittee on Border and Maritime Security, voiced her support for the plan in a statement on her website. “My subcommittee has been focused on securing our nation’s borders, both at and between the ports of entry. This includes our nation’s liquid border,” Miller said. “The security of our ports and waterways is vital and I applaud DHS on their announcement of the Maritime Operations Coordination plan. The USCG’s role in securing the maritime environment is critical, and this new plan to combine efforts with CBP and ICE will ensure that our nation’s coast is secure, while at the same time providing for the facilitation of commerce.” Parts of the new plan, which was authorized and signed by the heads of the aforementioned departments July 7, reportedly already are being implemented at the local level throughout the country. August 2011 �65472_LOG 7/28/2011 5:23 PM Page 7 Crews from the Algol and Capella were among those who met with union officials last month. President Sacco (right) and other officials meet with union members on the Horizon Tiger. With Seafarers on the West Coast SIU headquarters officials including President Michael Sacco, Executive Vice President Augie Tellez, Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel and Vice President Contracts George Tricker recently met with Seafarers both aboard ships on the West Coast and at the July membership meeting in Oakland, Calif. They were joined by regional officials including Vice President West Coast Nick Marrone, Assistant Vice President Nick Celona and Tacoma Port Agent Joe Vincenzo. During the shipboard gatherings (which included crews from 10 vessels), officials and members discussed the latest news concerning Horizon Lines, the Ready Reserve Force (RRF) program, the Seafarers Plans and more. The photos on this page were taken July 12-14 at the Oakland hall and on the Grand Canyon State, Horizon Pacific and Horizon Tiger. Seafarers pack the Oakland hall. Following a meeting aboard the Horizon Pacific, members and officials are pictured in the crew mess. SIU President Michael Sacco (standing) updates Horizon Pacific crew members on various developments affecting the industry. Crews from several RRF ships gather with officials aboard the Grand Canyon State. August 2011 From left, VP Contracts George Tricker, President Sacco and VP West Coast Nick Marrone listen to Seafarers from a number of Ready Reserve Force vessels who got together on the Grand Canyon State. During the July membership meeting in Oakland, Calif., SIU President Michael Sacco (standing) informs members about some of the latest news involving both the union and the labor movement as a whole. Also pictured are (from left) Asst. VP Nick Celona, Exec. VP Augie Tellez and Patrolman Nick Marrone II. Seafarers LOG 7 �65472_LOG 7/28/2011 4:43 PM Page 8 The ammo ship USNS Flint also earned a safety award from the Navy. In this photo from November 2010, MSC Commander Rear Adm. Mark Buzby (right) speaks to mariners aboard the Flint in Manama, Bahrain. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Cynthia Z. De Leon) The Seafarers-crewed submarine tender USS Emory S. Land, pictured last year in Diego Garcia, carries a hybrid crew of CIVMARS and U.S. Navy personnel. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Christopher S. Johnson) Navy Presents Ship Safety Award to USS Land Members of the SIU Government Services Division who sail aboard the submarine tender USS Emory S. Land were honored with an award for ship safety during a ceremony at the U.S. Navy Memorial in Washington, D.C., July 7. Secretary of the Navy (SECNAV) Ray Mabus presented the award to Lt. Cmdr. Antolino Colon, the Emory Land’s ship safety officer. The vessel carries a hybrid crew of CIVMARS and Navy personnel. “It was a lot of work, but well worth it and truly a testament to the [personnel] that we have on the ship, both active duty and the civil service mariners,” said Colon. “They are incredible people, and we really work hard together.” Overall, 19 awards were presented for outstanding safety achievements in 2010. The Land earned the Secretary of the Navy Safety Excellence Award in the afloat, auxiliary category. According to the Navy, eligibility for SECNAV awards hinges on first receiving a Chief of Naval Operations (CNO) Afloat Safety Award, presented yearly. In addition to the Land, two other SIUcrewed vessels – the roll-on/roll-off ship USNS Pomeroy and the ammunition ship USNS Flint – earlier this year earned the CNO recognition. That means they have the right to display the Navy’s green safety “S” on the ships’ bulwarks. Mabus described the SECNAV awards as “prestigious.” Addressing the recipients in a pre-event announcement, he wrote, “Safety and risk management are intrinsic to effectively prepare for and complete our mission, whether at home or deployed in harm’s way. Your safety accomplishments are proof-positive of your mission-first, safety-always command culture and your commitment to each other, to safety excellence, to the nation and to the advent of the Department of the Navy as a worldclass safety organization.” Rear Adm. Mark H. Buzby, commander, U.S. Military Sealift Command, also attended the award ceremony. The Navy reported that the Land “earned the recognition by aggressively seeking new opportunities to promote shipboard safety. For example, the crew independently aired safety videos on the ship’s closed-circuit system and created and filmed a training video to prevent injuries during operations where crew members are doing physical lifting, which is historically one of the most persistent threats to ship safety.” “These awards promote safety and motivate other crews on other MSC ships to earn the same recognition,” said Kevin Kohlmann, MSC safety officer. Specifically focusing on mariners from the Flint and Pomeroy, Kohlmann added, “The way those crew members took the initiative toward safety and developed their own programs aboard these ships truly made them stand out.” The Flint’s major safety initiatives “successfully coped with the unique challenge of heat stress while operating for months in the Arabian Gulf,” according to MSC, while the “Pomeroy’s contributions to shipboard safety included implementing ‘Safety Sunday,’ a weekly program dedicated to training and equipment checks.” Retired Official Gill Dies at 84 Frank Gill Sr., who served the SIU and its affiliate unions for decades, died July 1 in Long Beach, Calif. He was 84. A U.S. Merchant Marine veteran of World War II, Gill started working for the Marine Cooks and Stewards in 1962. That union merged into the SIU in 1978; Gill served both organizations as well as the SIU-affiliated United Industrial Workers (UIW) as an organizer and representative. He officially retired in 1991 but continued offering his help until 2001. Gill sailed in World War II and the Korean War before coming ashore to work as a union representative. 8 Seafarers LOG UIW West Coast Vice President Herb Perez knew Gill for more than 30 years. “He gave me a lot of guidance,” Perez recalled. “I met Frank in 1980 on an organizing campaign in California, out in Marina del Rey. He was a good organizer and leader. Frank worked hard; he loved his union and enjoyed life to the utmost.” Perez also remembered a challenging assignment in 1982 when Gill put together a team to fight for UIW members in the U.S. Virgin Islands whom the government owed more than three years of wage increases. Gill’s efforts helped secure more than $6 million in back pay for the membership, Perez said. Retired SIU Dispatcher Jesse Solis grew up with Gill in Brownwood, Texas, and the two remained close friends. “He was very intelligent when it came to organizing and very well-liked,” Solis stated. “He did a lot of good for the union. I learned a lot from him about standing up for the members and saving jobs for seamen.” Solis remembered an incident in late 1967, when Gill was trying to help organize the Queen Mary (currently a floating, UIW-contracted hotel based in Long Beach, Calif.). Gill jumped into the water, and his image was captured by a magazine photographer. “He made history with the Queen Mary,” Solis said. “Here was a 300-lb. seaman with a picket sign stopping a ship. That became well-known all over the country. It was quite a thrill.” Frank Gill Jr., an active SIU member who sails with Crowley on the West Coast, described his father as “very intelligent, fun-loving and street-wise. He could be tough, too – he was a boxer and he could take care of himself. But he just loved people around him and loved to party. He was full of life, loved to laugh. “Later on, your parents become your friends,” he continued. “My dad was one of my best friends if not my best friend. We spent a lot of time together, going places and doing things. We were close.” Frank Gill Sr. was laid to rest at Green Hills Cemetery in Rancho Palos Verdes, Calif. In late 1967, Gill (foreground) put up a unique picket by the Queen Mary. The organizing drive proved successful. August 2011 �65472_LOG 7/28/2011 4:43 PM Page 9 Maersk Mariners Earn Awards For Shipboard Safety Practices As part of an ongoing safety program, Maersk Line, Limited offers cash awards each month to mariners who demonstrate outstanding shipboard practices. In particular, Maersk recognizes mariners who identify potential hazards and take corrective action to prevent injuries. These photos show some of the recent recipients. The SIU-crewed USNS Bowditch is operated by 3PSC. USNS Bowditch Participates In Noble Vietnam Mission The SIU-crewed survey ship USNS Bowditch participated in an important mission off the coast of Vietnam this past June. The mission, conducted by the U.S. Joint POW/MIA Accounting Command (JPAC) and the Vietnamese Office for Seeking Missing Persons, was formulated to find crash sites and account for missing soldiers from the Vietnam War era. In addition to helping to provide closure on a difficult period in American history, the bilateral mission served to strengthen ties between Vietnam and the United States. “This joint U.S.-Vietnam mission to investigate underwater crash sites is using one of naval oceanography’s world-class survey ships to augment the efforts of JPAC,” said Navy Rear Adm. Jonathan White, commander, Naval Meteorology and Oceanography Command. “The level of cooperation is a great example of the strengthening relationship between our two nations.” “The synergy amongst the U.S. and Vietnamese team has been superb,” said Ron Ward, JPAC team leader. “The Vietnamese government has been very flexible throughout the mission in allowing us to collect as much data as possible.” Operated by 3PSC, the Bowditch participated in 15 surveying missions off the coasts of Da Nang City, Quang Nam, Thua Thien-Hue and Quang Tri provinces. The vessel used state-of-the-art technology to locate downed planes, ships, and other military equipment that were lost in military actions during the Vietnam War. After the data is collected and analyzed, a team of scientists and military personnel decide whether to conduct further research or attempt to excavate and retrieve the equipment. The vessel is also used for physical oceanography, hydrography, and geophysics in other circumstances. The importance of the mission to so many Americans proved inspirational to mariners aboard the ship. “For the crew of the Bowditch, it has been a rewarding experience working with the JPAC and Vietnamese liaisons to complete a mission that has so much meaning to the American people,” Capt. Mike Farrell, master of the vessel, said. SIU members who contributed to the mission included Bosun Marco Figueroa, ABs Stephen Hammelman, Alan Jacobson and Tyler Peyton, STOS Reynaldo Radoc, MDRs Peter Shaffer and Steven Tatummcfield, Chief Storekeeper Todd Easley, JE Joey Acedillo, QE Charles Kirksey, GUDE Rodante Niebres, GVA Francisco Ocado, Chief Steward Ronaldo Torres, Chief Cook Marta Williams and SAs Sabrina Long and Brenda White. USNS Effective Capt. Barnett (center) presents crew recognition awards to SA Elizabeth Byrd (left) and Oiler Peter Dadzie for their constant attention to safe working practices and quality of life for their shipmates. Chief Steward Luis Caballero from the Alliance Norfolk was credited for “maintaining a high safety standard in the common spaces aboard. He is always aware of potential hazards and works hard to make sure the risks are reduced.” Aboard the USNS Able, Oiler Patrick Milton received kudos – and cash – for discovering a minor leak and preventing it from becoming a major problem in the port pump room. Coast Guard Change of Command in Houston Electrician Andrew Linares (right) receives a $100 award from Chief Mate Buddy Fisher for his strong dedication to safety aboard the Sealand Comet. SIU VP Gulf Coast Dean Corgey (right) and SIU Houston Port Agent Mike Russo (left) were on hand June 29 for a U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) change-of-command ceremony. Capt. James Whitehead (second from left) is the new commanding officer of Coast Guard Sector Houston-Galveston; he succeeded Capt. Marcus Woodring (second from right). “We have enjoyed an excellent working relationship with Captain Woodring and look forward to working with Captain Whitehead,” Corgey said. “We will continue working with Captain Woodring as he accepts his next assignment as senior director of port security and emergency operations for the Port of Houston Authority.” August 2011 DEU Hassan Mohamed (left) is congratulated by Chief Engineer Bozidar Balic aboard the Sealand Comet for his ardent commitment to safety. Seafarers LOG 9 �65472_LOG 7/28/2011 6:23 PM Page 10 NOAA Vessel Starts Historic Arctic Circle Mission Seafarers in the union’s Government Services Division last month recorded their names in history when they set sail on a mission to collect hydrographic survey data in remote areas of the Arctic where depths have not been measured since before the U.S. bought Alaska in 1867. Serving as crew members aboard the 231-foot National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) survey ship Fairweather, the mariners departed Kodiak, Alaska, July 7 for a two-month voyage that would take them to waters in Kotzebue Sound, a regional distribution hub in northwestern Alaska in the Arctic Circle. After arriving at their destination, NOAA personnel aboard the Fairwether will conduct hydrographic surveys covering 402 square nautical miles of navigationally significant waters. Hydrography is the science that deals with the measurement and description of the physical features of bodies of water and their littoral land areas. Special emphasis is usually placed on the elements that affect safe navigation and the publication of such information in a suitable form for use in navigation. Data collected during Fairweather’s mission will be used to update nautical charts to help mariners safely navigate this important but sparsely charted region, which is now seeing increased vessel traffic because of the significant loss of Arctic sea ice. “The reduction in Arctic ice coverage is leading over time to a growth of vessel traffic in the Arctic, and this growth is driving an increase in maritime concerns,” explained NOAA Corps Capt. David Neander, commanding officer of the Fairweather. “Starting in 2010, we began surveying in critical Arctic areas where marine transportation dynamics are changing rapidly. These areas are increasingly transited by the offshore oil and gas industry, cruise liners, military craft, tugs and barges, and fishing vessels.” The Fairweather and her survey launches are equipped with state-of-theart acoustic technology to measure ocean depths, collect 3-D imagery of the seafloor, and detect underwater hazards that could pose a danger to surface vessels. The ship itself will survey the deeper waters, while the launches work in shallow areas. The city of Kotzebue, located on the shores of Kotzebue Sound at the tip of Baldwin Peninsula, serves as a supply The Fairweather, carrying shoreline mapping boats and equipped with the latest echo sounding technology, heads to the Arctic to re-survey areas where depths were last charted more than a century ago. (Photo courtesy NOAA) The Seafarers-crewed Fairweather is gathering important data for the National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration. hub for 11 Arctic villages and cannot currently accommodate deep draft vessels. Those vessels must now anchor 15 miles offshore, and cargo is brought to shore by shallow draft barges. This summer’s survey will also address a request for bathymetry to support navigation and installation for an offshore lightering facility used for heating and fuel oil. An up-to-date NOAA chart, using data acquired from surveys with modern highresolution sonar technology, can improve the efficiency – and safety – at this important location. Modern U.S. navigational charts are the best in the world, and are updated regularly by NOAA’s Office of Coast Survey. However, they are only as good as the data available, and many of the soundings on today’s Arctic charts were acquired in the 1800s with a weighted lead line, an antiquated technique. In addition to surveying critical areas with modern multi-beam sonar technologies, NOAA has initiated a major effort to update nautical charts that are inadequate for today’s needs, such as the deep draft vessels looking to exploit an open trade route through the Arctic. NOAA’s Arctic Nautical Charting Plan, issued last month, prioritizes charts that need updating. “NOAA’s Arctic surveys and charting plan identify the additional hydrographic coverage necessary to support a robust maritime transportation infrastructure in the coastal areas north of the Aleutian Islands,” said NOAA Corps Capt. Doug Baird, chief of NOAA’s Marine Chart Division in the Office of Coast Survey. “With the resources we have available, we are building the foundation to meet the burgeoning demands of ocean activities around Alaska’s waterways.” The Fairweather, one of NOAA’s three Seafarers-crewed ships dedicated to hydrographic surveying, is part of the NOAA fleet of research ships operated, managed and maintained by NOAA’s Office of Marine and Aviation Operations. She is crewed in part by commissioned officers of the NOAA Corps and civilian mariners attached to the SIU’s Government Services Division. NOAA’s Office of Coast Survey, originally formed by President Thomas Jefferson in 1807, updates the nation’s nautical charts, surveys the coastal seafloor, responds to maritime emergencies and searches for underwater obstructions and wreckage that pose a danger to navigation. NOAA’s self-described mission is to understand and predict changes in the Earth’s environment, from the depths of the ocean to the surface of the sun, and to conserve and manage our coastal and marine resources. Medical Services Provided to 45,000 The Seafarers-crewed hospital ship USNS Comfort by mid-July was more than two thirds of the way through its five-month humanitarian mission, Continuing Promise 2011. According to the U.S. Military Sealift Command, the vessel and its mission team have visited Colombia, Ecuador, Jamaica, Guatemala, Nicaragua, Peru and El Salvador. Medical services have been provided to more than 45,000 patients. In photo at left, Commodore Brian Nickerson (fourth from right, below the “2011” in background), mission commander for Continuing Promise 2011, leads military members of the Attaché Association from Central and South America on a tour of the ship. In the other image, a U.S. Navy Sailor stands watch. Both photos were taken in El Salvador. Members of the SIU Government Services Division fill the unlicensed slots aboard the Comfort. (U.S. Navy photos by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Eric C. Tretter) 10 Seafarers LOG August 2011 �65472_LOG 7/28/2011 5:26 PM Page 11 TALKIN’ UNION IN TACOMA – Seafarers and SIU officials recently met in Tacoma, Wash., where they informally caught up on the latest union and industry news. Pictured from left to right are members Steve Hynes and Brenda Kamiya, SIU President Michael Sacco, members John Turner, Vern Poulsen and Jim Dandy, SIU Exec. VP Augie Tellez and SIU VP West Coast Nick Marrone. RETIREE DONATES FLAG – Longtime Seafarer Nick Enna (left) recently donated a U.S. Merchant Marine flag for display at the union hall in New Orleans. Thanking him for the flag is Port Agent Chris Westbrook. Enna started his SIU career in 1966 on the Southwestern Victory and then transitioned to the inland division; he retired from Crescent Towing in 2000. At Sea & Ashore With the SIU SBX DECK GANG – SIU Tacoma Safety Director Ryan Palmer (third from left) chatted with Seafarers aboard the SBX in early June while the unique vessel was in the Vigor (formerly Todd Pacific) Shipyard in Seattle. Standing left to right in the photo above are OS Alexis Bonilla, AB Victor Mariano, Palmer, Bosun Weldon Heblich, OS Nofoalii Aiaga and AB Matthew Martinson. CHECKING IN FROM COAST RANGE – Recertified Bosun Gregory Jenkins mailed these snapshots from the last voyage of the Coast Range. Shown in the group photo above are the bosun, ABs Michael Cousin, Gerren Jenkins, Shawn Abdullah, Rick Wiemer and Dan Davison and DEU Victor Arzu Martinez. Standing left to right in the photo below are QMED/Pumpman Edward Self, Chief Pumpman Travis Rose and 1st Asst. (and SIU Hawsepiper) James Gushee. The photo at right shows AB Tibby Clotter slushing wire, assisted by Jenkins. August 2011 ABOARD MAERSK UTAH – Recertified Steward Daniel Wehr submitted these pictures from a recent voyage on the Maersk Utah. Pictured from left to right in photo above are Wehr, Chief Cook Ben Advincula and SA Hande Nor. With Wehr in the photo at right is QMED/Electrician Eric Bain (“EB” to his friends). LOADING MILITARY CARGO – These photos were taken in late June in Concord, Calif., where the Black Eagle was loading military cargo following a grain run to various ports in Africa. The vessel, operated by Red River Shipping, was activated from reserve status in January. Pictured in the photo above are (back row, from left) STOS Marino Macadaan, Bosun Reynaldo Nuqui, Steward/Baker Hector Sahagun, Recertified Steward Joseph Gallo, AB Kevin White, AB Jose Tagle, (front) STOS Nestor Pascual and Patrolman Nick Marrone II. After servicing the vessel, Marrone noted, “The crew was great and only had good things to say about one another.” Seafarers LOG 11 �65472_LOG 7/28/2011 5:38 PM Page 12 After donning their respective personal flotation devices, class members await their turns boarding the raft. Crowley Crews Ta At Union-Affiliat M aritime safety is a deeply entrenched hallmark in the transportation industry. No one knows this better or takes it more seriously than SIU members and the owners and operators of the vessels aboard which they sail. Putting this point into practice while concurrently driving home the notion that “Safety is Not Silent,” union-contracted Crowley Maritime Corporation earlier this year rolled out a U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) approved safety training program which is being conducted at the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. Dubbed the Crowley Safety Program (CSP), the course is two days in duration, satisfies USCG Basic Safety Training (BST) Refresher requirements, and is designed for licensed and unlicensed Crowley mariners. Attendance at the CSP is supported by the SIU and will ensure all mariners meet STCW requirements for BST Refresher and the renewal of their certificates with the USCG. Being present for both days of training also is required in order to receive CSP certificates. The course’s Piney Point curriculum consists of classroom and hands-on training in personal safety and social responsibilities, personal survival and elementary first aid. Besides meeting BST Refresher requirements, the CSP affords Crowley mariners the opportunity to receive additional training and information in other regulatory, health, and safety topics such as spill response, leadership skills, respiratory fitness and others. “Crowley is excited to be rolling out a training program that has been successful on the West Coast for a few years,” said Sarah Scherer, who serves as the CSP instructor at Piney Point. Scherer is Crowley’s Maritime training manager, East and Gulf Coasts. SIU Instructor Wayne Johnson (left) and Deck Utility Robert (Bob) Stone conduct respiratory fit testing. 12 Seafarers LOG “We are happy for the o provide a course that goes training requirements,” she knocking out USCG and O having discussions and doin best practices and to enhance combining technical safety t and leadership culture will ta competency and professiona “The most important part that our crews get to come t side with the folks they wor said. “We believe that attend they actually work with b Crowley safety culture.” Paul Hall Center Vocati curred with Scherer, noting developed into a process tha approach of having everyon produce a positive safety ou Jacksonville-based Crow pany of the 119-year-old Cr privately held family and em vides marine solutions, tran Within its six operating line liner container and break-bul ing and transportation; harb energy support; salvage and agement; vessel construction leum and chemical transpor more information visit: ww Crowley mariners brainstorm during an exercise on “What makes up a good emergency drill?” I a safety briefing and preparation for conducting a real man overboard drill. August 2011 �65472_LOG_X 8/2/2011 6:18 AM Page 13 Utility Sonny Perez-Gonzalez (left); Ira Douglas, director Marine Personnel; Deck Utility Eugene Arcand; and Margaret Reasoner, director, Corp Marine Personnel practice donning their survival suits in less than two minutes. Training Manager Sarah Scherer (left) and Master Andrew Ashworth prepare to throw a lifering. Tackle Safety Training ated Paul Hall Center the opportunity to partner with SIU to goes above and beyond our regulatory ” she continued. “We are proactively nd OSHA required training topics and doing exercises to highlight Crowley’s hance our safety culture. We believe that fety training with elements of our safety will take our mariners to another level of sionalism out on our boats. t part of the Crowley Safety Program is me together and actively learn side-bywork with on a regular basis,” Scherer ttending the course next to the mariners ith builds teamwork and boosts the ” ocational Director J.C. Wiegman conoting, “The Crowley CSP program has s that creates a total safety culture. The eryone participate in this program will ty outcome that benefits everyone.” Crowley Holdings Inc., a holding comld Crowley Maritime Corporation, is a nd employee-owned company that pro, transportation and logistics services. g lines of business, the company offers k-bulk shipping; logistics; contract towharbor ship assist and tanker escort; e and emergency response; vessel manuction and naval architecture, and petronsportation, distribution and sales. For www.crowley.com Crowely Director of Engineering Paul Vidal (left) and Training Manager Sarah Scherer watch mariners undergo personal survival skills testing. In photo at left, Master Hector Guzman swims the length of the pool while wearing a survival suit. ill?” In photo at right, they receive August 2011 Seafarers LOG 13 �65472_LOG_X 14 8/2/2011 6:18 AM Page 14 Seafarers LOG August 2011 �65472_LOG_X 8/2/2011 6:18 AM Page 15 September & October 2011 Membership Meetings D i s p a t ch e r s ’ R e p o r t f o r D e e p S e a June 16, 2011 - July 15, 2011 Algonac ........................................Friday: September 9, October 7 Port Total Registered All Groups A B C Baltimore..................................Thursday: September 8, October 6 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS 21 0 3 16 1 8 61 28 7 8 16 48 17 28 6 1 6 38 3 30 346 10 0 4 8 4 3 11 35 5 7 6 28 24 15 4 3 6 14 2 14 203 Total Shipped All Groups A B Deck Department 0 16 11 1 0 1 1 3 6 1 12 12 0 1 2 0 9 5 3 40 15 4 20 18 0 4 6 1 8 5 2 14 2 2 34 16 4 8 16 1 15 8 0 1 2 0 0 2 0 2 8 1 17 14 0 2 2 4 20 13 25 226 164 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS 5 0 3 6 3 6 14 16 0 7 10 17 9 9 2 1 3 17 0 8 136 3 1 8 7 0 6 17 24 2 2 3 5 16 12 5 4 8 12 0 18 153 Engine Department 1 2 2 0 0 1 0 3 5 0 7 2 1 1 0 1 7 3 1 10 9 0 14 13 1 2 2 0 3 3 2 5 1 1 9 5 1 9 13 1 5 3 0 2 2 0 0 2 0 2 4 0 11 9 0 0 1 1 5 10 11 97 90 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 5 0 0 2 5 0 2 6 8 0 0 3 6 4 5 1 0 2 9 0 7 60 6 0 4 15 5 17 35 30 2 13 11 28 16 15 1 1 6 23 2 16 246 3 1 3 12 1 9 20 34 1 5 4 13 25 22 8 3 12 16 1 24 217 0 0 0 0 1 0 2 1 1 0 0 3 2 2 0 0 0 1 0 2 15 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS 4 0 2 11 0 7 15 11 0 9 5 15 8 16 6 4 3 20 0 28 164 3 0 1 6 1 2 8 6 3 0 2 4 15 2 2 3 0 5 0 4 67 Steward Department 1 2 2 0 0 0 0 2 3 0 7 6 0 2 0 1 5 2 0 13 4 0 11 4 0 1 2 0 4 0 0 5 1 0 17 2 0 12 14 1 17 0 0 1 1 0 1 0 0 1 2 0 13 3 0 0 0 3 19 0 6 133 46 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 3 0 0 2 7 0 2 6 7 0 3 1 7 8 11 1 0 3 9 0 13 80 4 0 5 14 1 18 32 25 0 7 7 29 13 26 7 6 4 31 2 39 270 3 0 1 7 2 1 13 8 2 1 4 10 20 6 2 4 4 7 2 5 102 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 2 0 0 2 0 1 1 0 0 0 0 0 3 10 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS 1 0 1 1 0 1 1 2 0 0 1 6 0 0 0 0 1 2 0 6 23 5 0 2 12 1 9 14 25 3 2 6 34 17 18 2 19 0 11 1 19 200 Entry Department 13 2 6 1 0 0 4 2 2 4 0 4 0 0 1 7 1 1 3 5 7 16 3 11 1 0 1 0 1 5 3 1 1 6 4 10 19 0 10 10 1 10 1 0 0 11 0 14 0 0 0 7 6 11 0 0 0 9 0 13 115 26 107 7 0 3 0 1 2 0 4 1 0 0 2 4 0 1 14 0 4 0 0 43 2 0 0 0 0 0 2 6 0 1 1 2 2 2 1 4 0 5 0 3 31 1 0 1 1 0 3 1 4 0 1 1 15 0 4 0 0 1 6 0 16 55 10 2 2 18 2 14 30 44 2 5 8 68 34 30 4 7 2 16 2 27 327 23 2 4 12 0 7 11 21 1 1 6 14 36 18 2 0 4 16 1 17 196 GRAND TOTAL: 669 623 157 69 315 1,142 966 265 Piney Point................*Tuesday: September 6, Monday: October 3 Guam....................................Thursday: September 22, October 20 Honolulu ...................................Friday: September 16, October 14 Houston................Monday: September 12, **Tuesday: October 11 Jacksonville.............................Thursday: September 8, October 6 Joliet.....................................Thursday: September 15, October 13 Mobile................................Wednesday: September 14, October 12 New Orleans.................................Tuesday: September 13, October 11 New York....................................Tuesday: September 6, October 4 Norfolk.....................................Thursday: September 8, October 6 Oakland ................................Thursday: September 15, October 13 Philadelphia...........................Wednesday: September 7, October 5 Port Everglades ....................Thursday: September 15, October 13 San Juan.................................. Thursday: September 8, October 6 St. Louis ...................................Friday: September 16, October 14 Tacoma......................................Friday: September 23, October 21 Wilmington.................................Monday: September 19, October 17 * Piney Point change created by Labor Day holiday ** Houston change created by Columbus Day holiday Each port’s meeting starts at 10:30 a.m. Attention: Seafarers Another New Ship! SPAD Works For You! Contribute to the Seafarers Political Activities Donation S PA D August 2011 482 407 Trip Reliefs Registered on Beach All Groups A B C C 0 0 2 2 0 0 0 3 2 0 0 1 3 1 0 0 0 4 0 0 18 0 1 1 13 0 4 23 16 0 4 4 21 3 15 3 0 7 13 1 15 144 20 1 5 26 5 8 85 57 4 18 21 84 33 48 13 4 14 65 2 58 571 9 3 7 16 5 4 30 49 4 11 11 34 36 23 7 2 8 24 2 35 320 1 1 0 0 0 1 6 6 1 2 3 3 8 2 0 0 0 4 0 6 44 Seafarers LOG 15 �65472_LOG 7/28/2011 4:45 PM Page 16 S ea f a r e r s I n t e r n a t i o n a l U n i o n D i r e c t or y Michael Sacco, President Augustin Tellez, Executive Vice President David Heindel, Secretary-Treasurer George Tricker, Vice President Contracts Tom Orzechowski, Vice President Lakes and Inland Waters Dean Corgey, Vice President Gulf Coast Nicholas J. Marrone, Vice President West Coast Joseph T. Soresi, Vice President Atlantic Coast Kermett Mangram, Vice President Government Services HEADQUARTERS 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746 (301) 899-0675 ALGONAC 520 St. Clair River Dr., Algonac, MI 48001 (810) 794-4988 ANCHORAGE 721 Sesame St., #1C, Anchorage, AK 99503 (907) 561-4988 BALTIMORE 2315 Essex St., Baltimore, MD 21224 (410) 327-4900 GUAM P.O. Box 3328, Hagatna, Guam 96932 Cliffline Office Ctr. Bldg., Suite 103B 422 West O’Brien Dr., Hagatna, Guam 96910 (671) 477-1350 HONOLULU 606 Kalihi St., Honolulu, HI 96819 (808) 845-5222 HOUSTON 1221 Pierce St., Houston, TX 77002 (713) 659-5152 JACKSONVILLE 5100 Belfort Rd., Jacksonville, FL 32256 (904) 281-2622 JOLIET 10 East Clinton St., Joliet, IL 60432 (815) 723-8002 MOBILE 1640 Dauphin Island Pkwy, Mobile, AL 36605 (251) 478-0916 Inq uiring Seaf are r Editor’s note: This month’s question was answered by members at the hall in Wilmington, Calif. Question: What was one of your most memorable voyages, and what made it so? Noel Camacho AB My most memorable voyage was in 2005 aboard the SS Petersburg, taking it to a shipyard in Singapore. I was on the gangway when I saw a guy in the distance who looked familiar. I didn’t realize it right away but he was my brother; I hadn’t seen him in 13 years. He was a mariner, too. We both came from the Philippine Islands; I emigrated from there to the U.S., but he stayed. Anyway, he spent that day with me aboard my ship and we spent the next day on his ship. We sailed the next day. Adel Irani AB It was my first trip with the SIU, sailing as an OS on a grain ship that took us all over Africa. I was delighted to see Africa for the first time in my life, and the SIU made it possible. I saw pygmies on the Congo River; it was fabulous. That ship, the SS Cleveland, also took me to Eastern Europe – Estonia, Odessa, and that was fantastic, too. I stayed on that ship nine months straight and I’m still so appreciative. Peter Schuetz Chief Cook My last ship was a really good trip, the SS Lihue. I was the chief cook and the day before we got to Hawaii, we had a barbecue and every- body had a good time. We had shrimp and deviled eggs and potato salad and cookies, and the camaraderie was outstanding. I’ve been sailing since 1988 and have been really lucky – no close calls. The good Lord has protected me very well. Walter Harris SA When we took the Cape Isabel to Australia, we had about 14 military guys aboard. We dropped them off and it was a big experience for me. I really enjoyed that trip. On the way back, we went through Hawaii and we caught a marlin – it must have been 25-30 feet. We were barbecuing at the time, and we pulled in that marlin and threw it on the grill. I’m looking to get out again and go to Australia. They love Americans over there – they treated us well. Richard Walker Chief Cook My most memorable voyage was in August of 2001. We delivered one of Matson’s ships to China for repair, to the shipyard. My passport had been washed but it wasn’t mangled. But when I went to China on this particular trip and went to fly out afterward, they rejected my passport. I had to go back to the ship, which was four hours away. I’d gotten all the way to Shanghai and was ready to go home. (The ship was in Nantong.) Back in Shanghai, they tell me they can’t give me a passport because I’m behind in child support, which I absolutely was not, but what can you do? I got my wife and a congresswoman involved, and they proved that not only was I not behind, I had overpaid. The union and Matson Navigation took good care of me throughout. The union was calling me every day and was there 100 percent of the way. I was there for 28 days. We eventually got everything straight. P i c - F r o m - T h e -P a s t NEW ORLEANS 3911 Lapalco Blvd., Harvey, LA 70058 (504) 328-7545 NEW YORK 635 Fourth Ave., Brooklyn, NY 11232 (718) 499-6600 Government Services Division: (718) 499-6600 NORFOLK 115 Third St., Norfolk, VA 23510 (757) 622-1892 OAKLAND 1121 7th St., Oakland, CA 94607 (510) 444-2360 PHILADELPHIA 2604 S. 4 St., Philadelphia, PA 19148 (215) 336-3818 PINEY POINT P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674 (301) 994-0010 PORT EVERGLADES 1221 S. Andrews Ave., Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33316 (954) 522-7984 SANTURCE 1057 Fernandez Juncos Ave., Stop 16 Santurce, PR 00907 (787) 721-4033 ST. LOUIS/ALTON 4581 Gravois Ave., St. Louis, MO 63116 (314) 752-6500 TACOMA 3411 South Union Ave., Tacoma, WA 98409 (253) 272-7774 WILMINGTON 510 N. Broad Ave., Wilmington, CA 90744 (310) 549-4000 This file photo from a 1955 edition of the LOG shows “picnic committeemen” who contributed to the success of the fourth annual picnic staged by SIU crew members from the Del Sud. According to the original caption, Seafarers, family members and friends gathered at Audubon Park in New Orleans. Helping transport food and drink to the site were (kneeling, from left) Seafarers Arthur Maillet, Dave Witty, (standing) Frank Calascione, Louis Guarino, V.J. Tozel and L.B. Miller. If anyone has a vintage union-related photograph he or she would like to share with other Seafarers LOG readers, please send it to the Seafarers LOG, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. Photographs will be returned, if so requested. High-resolution digital images may be sent to webmaster@seafarers.org 16 Seafarers LOG August 2011 �65472_LOG 7/28/2011 4:45 PM Page 17 Each month, the Seafarers LOG pays tribute to the SIU members who have devoted their working lives to sailing aboard U.S.-flag vessels on the deep seas, inland waterways or Great Lakes. Listed below are brief biographical sketches of those members who recently retired from the union. The brothers and sisters of the SIU thank those members for a job well done and wish them happiness and good health in the days ahead. W e l c o me A sh ore DEEP SEA STEPHEN CASTLE Brother Stephen Castle, 62, signed on with the Seafarers in 1967. He originally worked aboard the Inger. In 1985 and 2001, Brother Castle took advantage of educational opportunities at the SIUaffiliated school in Piney Point, Md. His final voyage was on the Horizon Tacoma. Brother Castle sailed in the deck department. He was born in Los Angeles and now makes his home in Suquamish, Wash. RAY GARCIA Brother Ray Garcia, 65, began sailing with the SIU in 1978 from the port of San Francisco. He sailed in the steward department. Brother Garcia’s earliest trip was on the Maryland. He attended classes on numerous occasions at the Piney Point school. Brother Garcia most recently shipped aboard the Ewa. He is a resident of his native state, California. ALI HYDERA Brother Ali Hydera, 62, became a Seafarer in 1978. His first ship was operated by Connecticut Transport Inc. Brother Hydera was born in Yemen and worked in the steward department. His most recent trip was aboard the Maersk Ohio. Brother Hydera lives in Hoboken, N.J. ZINNONNON JACKSON Brother Zinnonnon Jackson, 69, joined the SIU ranks in 1990. He was initially employed on the USNS Assurance. Brother Jackson was a deck department member. The Alabama native’s final trip was aboard the El Faro. Brother Jackson upgraded in 1992 at the maritime training center in Piney Point, Md. He calls Mobile home. RICHARD LEWIS Brother Richard Lewis, 60, donned the SIU colors in 1969. His earliest trip was on the Cantigny. Brother Lewis upgraded often at the Seafarersaffiliated school. His most August 2011 recent trip was aboard the Maersk Idaho. Brother Lewis, who sailed in the deck department, lives in Elgin, Texas. JOSEPH LOYAL Brother Joseph Loyal, 58, began shipping with the Seafarers in 1990. His first trip to sea was on the USNS Kane. Brother Loyal worked in the deck department. He attended classes in 2010 at the Piney Point school. Brother Loyal’s final voyage was aboard the Horizon Hunter. He is a resident of Lubbock, Texas. TERRY MOUTON Brother Terry Mouton, 67, joined the union in 1969, originally sailing on the Columbia Trader. He enhanced his skills on two occasions at the Paul Hall Center. A member of the engine department, Brother Mouton most recently worked aboard the Cyprine. He makes his home in New York. CHARLES REEVE Brother Charles Reeve, 65, was born in Peoria, Ill. He signed on with the SIU in 2004. Brother Reeve initially worked on the American Tern. In 2004, he upgraded at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. The deck department member’s final trip was with Ocean Shipholdings Inc. Brother Reeve lives in McHenry, Ill. STEPHEN THOMPSON Brother Stephen Thompson, 58, became a Seafarer in 1974. His earliest voyage was on the Saugatuck. On numerous occasions, Brother Thompson took advantage of educational opportunities at the SIUaffiliated school in Piney Point, Md. He last sailed with Penn Maritime Inc. Brother Thompson was a member of the deck department. He settled in Pensacola, Fla. INLAND BRUCE CARTER Brother Bruce Carter, 62, started his SIU career in 1984. The engine department member was born in Michigan. Brother Carter worked aboard Crowley Towing & Transportation of Jacksonville vessels. He resides in Florida. the engine department. Brother Habiger last shipped with Moran Towing of Texas. He now calls Middleburg, Fla., home. GUSTAVO FLORES Brother Gustavo Flores, 66, began sailing with the union in 1970. He initially worked with Michigan Tankers Inc. In 1993, Brother Flores upgraded his skills at the Piney Point school. His final trip was on a Moran Towing of Texas vessel. Brother Flores is a resident of Port Arthur, Texas. ALFRED HUNTINGTON Brother Alfred Huntington, 56, signed on with the SIU in 1989. He was first employed on a vessel operated by G&H Towing Company. Brother Huntington sailed in the engine department. He attended classes at the Seafarers-affiliated school in 2001. Brother Huntington most recently worked on the Terrapin Island. He makes his home in Freer, Texas. GEORGE HABIGER Brother George Habiger, 62, donned the SIU colors in 1996. He originally worked in the deep sea division aboard the Ambassador. Brother Habiger was born in Palm Springs, Fla. He was a member of LARRY JAMIESON Brother Larry Jamieson, 60, became a union member in 1979 while in the port of Wilmington, Calif. He initially worked with Crowley Towing & Transportation. Brother Jamieson shipped in both the steward and deck departments. In 2004, he took advantage of educational opportunities at the maritime training center in Piney Point, Md. Brother Jamieson’s final ship was the Resolve. He lives in Webbville, Ky. MELVIN POTTER Brother Melvin Potter, 63, started sailing with the SIU in 1965. The steward department member’s earliest trip was aboard an RK Davis Transportation vessel. Brother Potter’s last ship was operated by Express Marine Inc. He is a resident of Belhaven, N.C. JOHN REBER Brother John Reber, 69, joined the SIU in 1992. He was primarily employed with Allied Transportation Company during his seafaring career. Brother Reber was an engine department member. He enhanced his skills on three occasions at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Reber resides in Wanchese, N.C. GREAT LAKES FRED HART Brother Fred Hart, 68, started shipping with the union in 1998. He initially sailed aboard the JAW Iglehart. Brother Hart shipped in the engine department. His last trip was on the Alpena. Brother Hart resides in Michigan. T h i s M o n t h In S I U H i s t o r y E ditor’s note: The following items are reprinted from previous editions of the Seafarers LOG. 1939 In an effort to retain the watertenders aboard the ships of the Lykes Brothers fleet, the SIU struck the S.S. Liberty Bell and the S.S. Jolee in Houston and Corpus Christi. The SIU knew that if Lykes Brothers could sail their ships without watertenders, it would be only a question of time before other companies would do likewise. 1948 The Seafarers International Union was certified this week as the bargaining agent for unlicensed crewmen on ships belonging to the Cuba Distilling Company. On receipt of the certification, SIU headquarters sent a memorandum to the company asking the immediate commencement of contract negotiations. Cuba Distilling was first contracted in 1938. However, the company’s small fleet of ships was sunk during the war and the company went out of business. Upon its return last winter with new ships, company officials maintained that no agreement with the SIU existed since the last one negotiated had lapsed. 1982 Vice Admiral Kent J. Carroll, head of the Military Sealift Command, told an audience at Southwestern Michigan College recently that America’s defense capability will remain vulnerable so long as the Americanflag merchant marine is allowed to deteriorate. Carroll pointed out that 90 percent of all military cargo and manpower would have to be carried by sea in an extended conflict. Carroll called upon the government, the maritime industry, and the maritime labor unions to get together to come up with a viable plan to restore the American-flag merchant marine to its former glory. 1997 Delegates representing the affiliated organizations of the Seafarers International Union of North America, during the SIUNA’s 23rd convention, called for actions to revitalize the U.S.and Canadian-flag merchant marines, improve the living standard of America’s working families, maintain an effective political presence at the local, state, and federal levels, and organize new members. President Michael Sacco reminded delegates that they must continue waging the political fight to preserve the Jones Act with the same energy and determination they applied towards the recent, successful Maritime Security Program (MSP) battle. These areas are the focus for the SIU’s goals of “full ahead” into the 21st century. Seafarers LOG 17 �65472_LOG 7/28/2011 6:23 PM Page 18 Fina l De pa r tu r e s DEEP SEA WILLIAM CARD Brother William Card, 61, passed away March 7. He joined the Seafarers in 1968. Brother Card’s first ship was the Geneva; his last was the Horizon Producer. Brother Card sailed in the deck department. He was a resident of Ponte Vedra, Fla. CLAYTAIN CARR Brother Claytain Carr, 65, died March 9. He became an SIU member in 2006. Brother Carr initially sailed aboard the Overseas New Orleans. He worked in the engine department. Brother Carr’s final trip was on the Overseas Nikiski. He called Las Vegas home. JOSEPH CONLIN Brother Joseph Conlin, 55, passed away March 10. He began shipping with the union in 1980. Brother Conlin worked in both the deep sea and inland divisions. His earliest trip to sea was aboard the Economy. Brother Conlin was a New York native. He last sailed on the Padre Island. Brother Conlin, a member of the deck department, made his home in Tampa, Fla. CHRISTOPHER COTE Brother Christopher Cote, 41, died February 21. He started his seafaring career in 1989 while in the port of San Francisco. Brother Cote originally sailed aboard the USNS Wyman. He was born in Massachusetts. Brother Cote was a member of the steward department. He most recently shipped on the Pacific Collector. Brother Cote settled in Oakland, Calif. JOHN FREY Brother John Frey, 56, passed away January 12. He signed on with the union in 2004 while in Piney Point, Md. Brother Frey’s first ship was the USNS Denebola; his last was the Flickertail State. He was born in Baltimore. Brother Frey, who sailed in the deck department, lived in Berlin, Md. THEODORE HAWKINS Pensioner Theodore Hawkins, 81, passed away March 11. Brother Hawkins joined the union in 1968 while in the port of San Francisco. He originally worked aboard the Asbury Victory. The engine department member’s last trip was on the Lt. Col. Calvin P. Titus. Brother Hawkins was born in Arkansas but called Elk Grove, Calif., home. He became a pensioner in 2001. GEORGE HOOPES Pensioner George Hoopes, 70, died February 15. Brother Hoopes became a Seafarer in 1961. He initially worked with Ore Navigation Corporation. Brother Hoopes, a member of the engine department, was a Pennsylvania native. Prior to his retirement in 1998, his last ship was the Liberator. Brother Hoopes resided in Santa Rosa, Calif. REEVES HORNBY Pensioner Reeves Hornby, 84, passed away February 14. Brother Hornby began sailing with the union in 1990. He was originally employed on the Sgt. Matej Kocak. Brother Hornby worked in the deck department. He most recently sailed aboard the Maersk Missouri. Brother Hornby started receiving his pension in 2007 and settled in New Jersey. CATALINO DIAZ Pensioner Catalino Diaz, 69 passed away February 1. Brother Diaz joined the SIU in 1970 in the port of New York. His initial voyage was aboard the Halcyon Panther. Brother Diaz, who sailed in the steward department, was born in Puerto Rico. His final trip was on the Horizon Producer. Brother Diaz retired in 2006 and continued to reside in Puerto Rico. DARRELL JONES Brother Darrell Jones, 46, died February 27. He signed on with the SIU in 1991. Brother Jones first shipped on the Maj. Stephen W. Pless. He last sailed aboard the Robert E. Lee. Brother Jones, a member of the deck department, lived in Franklinton, La.. HARRY DURACHER Pensioner Harry Duracher, 73, died March 10. Brother Duracher first donned the SIU colors in 1957. His earliest trip was aboard the Del Sud. Brother Duracher, a member of the deck department, was born in Louisiana. He last worked on the Stonewall Jackson. Brother Duracher began collecting his retirement compensation in 1990. He was a resident of Bush, La. EARNEST ODOM Pensioner Earnest Odom, 91, passed away January 29. Brother Odom started his seafaring career in 1941 while in the port of Mobile, Ala. His first vessel was the Del Santos. Brother Odom, a member of the deck department, was born in Alabama. His final voyage was aboard a Mt. Washington Tankers Corporation vessel. Brother Odom went on pen- 18 Seafarers LOG sion in 1983 and called Brewton, Ala., home. ADAN QUEVEDO Pensioner Adan Quevedo, 89, died February 13. Brother Quevedo first donned the SIU colors in 1951. His initially sailed with Ore Navigation Corporation. Brother Quevedo was a member of the engine department. His last trip was on the St. Louis. Brother Quevedo began collecting his retirement compensation in 1986. Brother Quevedo was a resident of Ponce, P.R. JOHN ROBINSON Brother John Robinson, 63, passed away March 4. He began shipping with the Seafarers in 1991. Brother Robinson’s first vessel was the Cape Mohican; his last was the American Merlin. He worked in the engine department. Brother Robinson lived in Norfolk, Va. HONESTO ROCES Pensioner Honesto Roces, 76, died February 6. Brother Roces joined the SIU in 1988. His initial voyage was aboard the Independence. Brother Roces, who sailed in the deck department, was born in the Philippines. His final trip was on the Spirit. Brother Roces retired in 2002 and settled in Honolulu. HERBERT ROLEN Pensioner Herbert Rolen, 93, passed away February 18. Brother Rolen was born in Tennessee. He signed on with the SIU in 1945 while in the port of New York. Brother Rolen originally worked in the engine department of the Alamar. He last sailed aboard the Borinquen. Brother Rolen went on pension in 1982 and lived in Maryville, Tenn. ROBERT ROWE Pensioner Robert Rowe, 75, died February 26. Brother Rowe first donned the union colors in 1962. His earliest trip was aboard the Alcoa Puritan. Brother Rowe was a member of the steward department. He was born in Virginia. Brother Rowe’s final voyage was on the Discovery. He became a pensioner in 1993. Brother Rowe resided in Norfolk, Va. WILLIAM RUST Pensioner William Rust, 62, passed away February 19. Brother Rust joined the SIU in 1973 while in the port of Norfolk, Va. He originally sailed in the inland division with Allied Transportation Company. Brother Rust was born in Virginia and worked in the steward department. His last trip was aboard the Green Island. Brother Rust began collecting his pension in 1998. He continued to make his home in Virginia. GEORGE THAYER Pensioner George Thayer, 87, died January 28. Brother Thayer became a Seafarer in 1945 in the port of New York. He initially worked with AH Bull Steamship Company. Brother Thayer was member of the steward department. Prior to his retirement in 1994, one of his last ships was the Enterprise. Brother Thayer called Seattle home. ERNEST WISE Pensioner Ernest Wise, 89, passed away March 8. Brother Wise signed on with the union in 1972. The steward department member initially worked with Great Lakes Associates. Brother Wise was born in Michigan. Before retiring in 1986, he shipped on the Brooks Range. Brother Wise was a resident of Woodburn, Ore. EDWARD WOODS Pensioner Edward Woods, 81, died February 19. Brother Woods was born in Brooklyn, N.Y. He started his seafaring career in 1953. Brother Woods, who sailed in the deck department, was first employed with Alcoa Steamship Company. His last voyage was with Michigan Tankers Inc. Brother Woods became a pensioner in 1979. He continued to live in his native state. INLAND PINK AMOS Pensioner Pink Amos, 84, passed away February 21. Brother Amos began sailing with the union in 1959. He worked with Chesapeake & Ohio Railway for the duration of his career. Brother Amos went on pension in 1986. The North Carolina native made his home in Enville, Tenn. ALVIN ELLIS Pensioner Alvin Ellis, 80, died March 16. Brother Amos became an SIU member in 1975. His earliest trip was aboard a Mariner Towing vessel. Brother Amos was born in Jacksonville, Fla. He last shipped on the Maritrans Gulf. Brother Amos started receiving his pension in 1995 and continued to reside in Florida. Kirchner joined the union in 1962. He primarily shipped with McAllister Towing of Baltimore. Brother Kirchner retired in 1984. He was born in Baltimore but called Chester, Md., home. OTTO SCHUMANN Pensioner Otto Schumann, 69, died February 12. Brother Schumann first donned the SIU colors in 1968. The New Jersey-born mariner mostly worked aboard Interstate Oil Transportation Company vessels. Brother Schumann became a pensioner in 2008 and continued to reside in New Jersey. MICHAEL TIERNEY Brother Michael Tierney, 51, passed away February 15. He was born in Louisiana. Brother Tierney signed on with the union in 1977. Brother Tierney worked with Crescent Towing & Salvage of New Orleans as a member of the deck department. He was a resident of Hammond, La. GREAT LAKES WILLIAM MCANDREWS Pensioner William McAndrews, 89, died February 19. Brother McAndrews started his SIU career in 1961. He primarily sailed with Great Lakes Towing Company. Brother McAndrews was born in Buffalo, N.Y. he went on pension in 1983 and settles in Hamburg, N.Y. Editor’s note: The following brothers and sister, all former members of the National Maritime Union (NMU), have passed away. NATIONAL MARITIME UNION ROBERT MALUCI Pensioner Robert Maluci, 92, died January 14. Brother Maluci was born in New York. He became a pensioner in 1985. Brother Maluci settled in New Mexico. Name Cruz, Felipe Fletcher, Alexander Gibon, Lucie Jaruszewki, Bernard Joseph, William Laird, Edwin MacKoy, Herbert Martin, Robert Matos, Waldo Moore, John Pharoah, Clarence Rodriguez, Tomas Suarez, Felipe Age 90 88 100 91 83 92 90 82 76 82 91 81 88 DOD Dec. 29 Jan. 14 Feb. 7 Feb. 1 Jan. 31 Jan. 1 Jan. 29 Jan. 28 Dec. 26 Jan. 18 Jan. 26 Jan. 8 Jan. 16 RALPH KIRCHNER Pensioner Ralph Kirchner, 84, passed away March 13. Brother August 2011 �65472_LOG 7/28/2011 4:46 PM Page 19 D i g es t o f S h ip b oa r d U n io n M e et i ng s CHARLESTON EXPRESS (Crowley), May 23 – Chairman George F. Price, Secretary Ronald Tarantino, Educational Director Steven M. Haver, Deck Delegate Shaib Juma. Chairman talked about 401k program and the importance of safety awareness. Educational director reiterated the need to renew documents in a timely manner and advised all mariners to enhance skills at the union-affiliated training center in Piney Point, Md. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew members discussed upcoming contract negotiations. It was reported that transportation to and from port’s entrance was needed. Next ports: Charleston, S.C. and Houston. HORIZON PACIFIC (Horizon Lines), May 25 – Chairman Glenn R. Christianson, Secretary Robert P. Mosley, Educational Director John A. Osburn, Deck Delegate John E. Coleman, Engine Delegate Hussen A. Mohamed, Steward Delegate Delbra Leslie. Bosun gave a vote of thanks to all departments for working safe and reminded them to keep the noise down while people are sleeping. He also advised mariners to update their BST and make sure all documents are current. Discussion was held concerning the importance of the Jones Act. Secretary asked seamen departing vessel to clean their rooms and get fresh linen. Educational director suggested Seafarers take advantage of courses available at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. Members were encouraged to contribute to SPAD (Seafarers Political Activity Donation). Treasurer reported $191.99 in the cookout fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. President’s report from the April Seafarers LOG was read; a vote of thanks was given to President Sacco and his staff. Crew discussed union efforts to work with company during difficult economic times. Steward department was thanked for good job on BBQs. Next ports: Tacoma, Wash., Oakland, Calif. and Hawaii. The Seafarers LOG attempts to print as many digests of union shipboard minutes as possible. On occasion, because of space limitations, some will be omitted. Ships’ minutes first are reviewed by the union’s contract department. Those issues requiring attention or resolution are addressed by the union upon receipt of the ships’ minutes. The minutes are then forwarded to the Seafarers LOG for publication. Remembering Brother Jensen Earlier this year, crew members aboard Sea Star Line’s El Yunque memorialized NMU retiree Ben Jensen by scattering the late mariner’s ashes at sea. Brother Jensen passed away in 2010 at age 77; he had been retired since 1995. For the ceremony, which took place north of Puerto Rico and the Dominican Republic, Vessel Master Earl Loftfield (with back to camera in group photo, pictured individually in the other image) in part wrote, “It is the shoulders of our ancestors upon which we stand as our descendants will stand upon ours. With gratitude, respect and love, we release these cremated remains of Ben Ostenfeldt Jensen back into the watery lifeblood of our planet. This is our time on the planet. We are honored to be of service in this passage of Ben’s ashes.” LIBERTY EAGLE (Liberty MAERSK MISSOURI (Maersk Maritime), May 15 – Chairman Juan M. Rivas, Secretary Fernando Guity, Educational Director Eloy Gutierrez, Steward Delegate Rene Gil. Chairman announced payoff in Galveston, Texas, and went over ship’s itinerary. He reminded anyone getting off ship to clean rooms. Educational director advised all mariners to attend classes at the SIU-affiliated training center in Piney Point, Md. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Thanks given to steward department for a job well done. Problems with transportation in Port Arthur, Texas were reported. Request was made for a new microwave in galley. Line, Limited), May 6 – Chairman Oliver M. Balico, Secretary Glenn C. Bamman, Educational Director Jerome D. Culbreth, Deck Delegate Paulo I. Castillo, Engine Delegate James F. Sieger, Steward Delegate Husain Salah. Chairman reported smooth voyage and excellent crew. Educational director urged members to enhance their skills, which can lead to better opportunities and advancement. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Vote of thanks was given to the steward department. Next ports: Newark, N.J., Charleston, S.C. and Norfolk, Va. AB Earns Horizon Safety Honor OCEAN ATLAS (Pacific Gulf Marine), May 7 – Chairman Maurice D. Hetrick, Secretary Connie M. Denoma, Educational Director Brandon T. Purcell, Engine Delegate Manuel Lulley, Steward Delegate Patricia Ricks. Bosun stated all hands pulled together to make it a smooth trip. Educational director encouraged mariners to upgrade at Paul Hall Center. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew members requested more movies. Suggestion was made to shorten seatime requirements to qualify for retirement and increase pension pay. Next port: Wilmington, N.C. OCEAN CHARGER (Pacific Gulf Capt. Ron Radicali alerted the LOG that AB Sabbah Hadi (above) recently was chosen as the Horizon Enterprise Safety Sailor of the Month. The recognition is part of an ongoing safety program conducted by Horizon Lines. According to the vessel master, “AB Hadi was nominated by Chief Mate Thomas Ryan for his consistent use and care of required PPE (personal protective equipment). Chief Mate Ryan presented AB Hadi with Horizon Lines coveralls in recognition of his safety practices.” August 2011 Marine), May 11 – Chairman Richard R. Grubbs, Secretary Steven M. Dickson, Educational Director Vladimir Loutaev, Deck Delegate Billy Watson, Steward Delegate Steven Dickson. Chairman discussed ship’s schedule. Educational director reminded crew to get their time in and take advantage of upgrading at Piney Point. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew talked about the importance of supporting the SIU and AFLCIO while anti-union forces are gathering. Next port: Houston. OVERSEAS ANACORTES (OSG), May 29 – Chairman Felsher Beasley, Secretary Dana Paradise, Educational Director Abner Diaz Torres, Deck Delegate Alfred Acheampong. Bosun reported very cooperative crew. He reiterated the need to donate to SPAD. Secretary informed members that forms were available from steward. Educational director urged members to enhance their skills at the Paul Hall Center. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Motion was made to have a cost-of-living wage increase. Crew expressed gratitude to the steward department for great food. Next port: Portland, Ore. OVERSEAS LUXMAR (OSG), May 15 – Chairman Dave S. Coleman, Secretary Abraham Martinez, Educational Director Kevin E. Hall, Engine Delegate Roy Martinez. Chairman reviewed ship’s schedule. Secretary asked mariners to put soiled linen in laundry bag since everyone is leaving vessel. Educational director advised members to stay up-to-date on all necessary seafaring documents. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Chairman thanked the steward and deck departments for a job well done. OVERSEAS NIKISKI (OSG), May 6 – Chairman Anton T. Sulic, Secretary Joseph Emidy, Educational Director Benjamin E. Mathews, Deck Delegate Christopher Green, Engine Delegate Angelito Basa, Steward Delegate Santos Lopez. Chairman praised crew for professionalism aboard ship. Secretary inquired about raises or lack thereof and their potential effects on pensions. Educational director urged Seafarers to make sure they have their BST; it is good for 5 years and is mandatory for shipping out. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Mariners would like heating system improved during the cold season. Thanks given to the steward department for great feasts. USNS LAWRENCE H. GIANELLA (Ocean Ships), June 4 – Chairman Bernardino R. Eda, Secretary Steve E. Parker, Educational Director Jimmie E. Thomas, Deck Delegate Jeremiah Harrington, Engine Delegate Ruben Haynes, Steward Delegate Eric Hernandez. Chairman discussed contract issues including scheduled wage increase and OT. Secretary reminded everyone to separate plastic from trash. Educational director advised all mariners to attend classes at the Seafarers-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew continued discussion of contract and requested copy of new agreement. Next ports: Fujairah and Diego Garcia. OVERSEAS TAMPA (OSG), June 5 – Chairman Joseph J. Caruso, Secretary George Monseur, Educational Director Scott S. Fuller, Deck Delegate Kenneth R. Kelly, Engine Delegate Felix Garcia, Steward Delegate Johnnie Chavis. Bosun talked about ship’s itinerary and advised members to keep pay stubs for when they file for vacation benefits. Secretary thanked fellow crew members for helping keep ship clean. Educational director encouraged mariners to upgrade at Paul Hall Center and contribute to SPAD. No beefs or disputed OT reported. It was noted that new dryer and satellite are to be installed. Next port: Port Everglades, Fla. Seafarers LOG 19 �65472_LOG_X 8/2/2011 6:18 AM Page 20 L ett ers T o T he E d i tor .Unions and the Middle Class Letters may be edited for conciseness and clarity. Submissions may be mailed to 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746 or emailed to webmaster@seafarers.org be there with you. What Americans have come to know as a representative democracy – government by and for the people – has for all practical purposes ceased to exist. Today we have 535 congresspersons who function under the auspices of an untold number of lobbyists, and it’s my opinion that this group is representative of the money class of our nation and answers to none other. It has taken years to reach this place in history, and will by no means be corrected overnight. I do believe term limits would be a good place to start. The following is a quote by Aristotle, the Greek philosopher: “The real difference between democracy and oligarchy is poverty and wealth. Wherever men rule by reason of their wealth, whether they be few or many, that is an oligarchy, and where the poor rule, that is a democracy.” He further went on to say, “It is manifest that the best political community is formed of the middle class.” Having lived through the Great Depression and witnessed unions coming into power, it’s my sincere belief that our middle class came into being as a result. Earl Herring Beverly Hills, Florida Buy Union, Buy American I have long been a firm believer in buying Americanmade and union-made products. We should all insist on buying products made in the USA by union members. I went to a tire store in Los Angeles a while ago to buy American-made tires for my American-made Pontiac Bonneville. To my surprise I was told that they can’t get American-made Michelin tires for my car. I went to other tire outlets in Los Angeles, but it was the same story. Finally, I found a tire store that carried U.S.made Michelin tires some 410 miles away in Fairfield, California. I am a U.S. military veteran and I would fight for your right to buy anything you want to buy, but union members especially should remember that the job you save by buying union and buying American will be your own. Practically everything you can buy that’s made in other countries, you can buy “Made in USA.” Happy American- and union-made shopping. I will Australia – loyal shipmates forever. I am 91 years old and I have great memories of the USA. Nick Rios, SIU Dispatcher Wilmington Hall John E. Helman Hamilton Hill, Western Australia Editor’s note: The Union Label and Service Trades Department published a guide to union-made tires in its May-June 2011 newsletter, the Label Letter. It’s available for download at www.unionlabel.org, along with other information about buying union. U.S. Maritime History Honored in Australia This was the fourth year in a row that I represented Mr. A.J. Wichita, president of the American Merchant Marine Veterans, and Mr. Ian T. Allison, co-chairman of the Just Compensation Committee, at the Battle of the Coral Sea wreath-laying ceremony at the Western Australia State War Memorial, Kings Park. The ceremony took place May 9 in Perth and was sponsored by the Australian American Association. I am proud to have had this honor as we observed the 69th anniversary of this great sea battle won by the United States against the Japanese navy on our doorstep. The U.S. saved Australia; God bless America. At the ceremony, there were representatives from the USA including Vice Consul Seth Cornell, Barry Gravelle, president of the American Returned Military Services, and others. A letter was read from President Obama. Other attendees included David Grace, president of the Australian American Association; the Honorable Perth Deputy Lord Mayor John Tognolini; representatives from the Western Australia state government and federal government including the Honorable Andrew Waddell, representing the prime minister; officers from the Royal Australian Navy, Army and Air Force, and lots of other officials. The words I wrote on my homemade wreath were: “In memory of the men of the U.S. Merchant Marine of World War II, who sacrificed their lives for their homeland America but also the freedom of other nations and also the seas, lest we forget.’ In closing, I must thank Barry Gravelle for presenting me with an American flag. I will cherish this always and protect it for the rest of my life. I wish you well. God bless America, God bless John Helman (in the right foreground of the photo below), who sailed as a merchant mariner from the mid-1930s to the early 1980s, puts together a wreath for each year’s Battle of the Coral Sea commemoration. This year’s version is pictured above. Helman sailed on Australian, U.S., British, Norwegian and Dutch ships Kn ow Y o u r R i gh t s FINANCIAL REPORTS. The Constitution of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU makes specific provision for safeguarding the membership’s money and union finances. The constitution requires a detailed audit by certified public accountants every year, which is to be submitted to the membership by the secretary-treasurer. A yearly finance committee of rank-and-file members, elected by the membership, each year examines the finances of the union and reports fully their findings and recommendations. Members of this committee may make dissenting reports, specific recommendations and separate findings. TRUST FUNDS. All trust funds of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU are administered in accordance with the provisions of various trust fund agreements. All these agreements specify that the trustees in charge of these funds shall equally consist of union and management representatives and their alternates. All expenditures and disbursements of trust funds are made only upon approval by a majority of the trustees. All trust fund financial records are available at the headquarters of the various trust funds. SHIPPING RIGHTS. A member’s shipping rights and seniority are protected exclusively by contracts between the union and the employers. Members should get to know their shipping rights. Copies of these contracts are posted and available in all union halls. If members believe there have been violations of their shipping or seniority rights as contained in the contracts between the union and the employers, they should notify the Seafarers Appeals Board by certified mail, return 20 Seafarers LOG receipt requested. The proper address for this is: Augustin Tellez, Chairman Seafarers Appeals Board 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 Full copies of contracts as referred to are available to members at all times, either by writing directly to the union or to the Seafarers Appeals Board. CONTRACTS. Copies of all SIU contracts are available in all SIU halls. These contracts specify the wages and conditions under which an SIU member works and lives aboard a ship or boat. Members should know their contract rights, as well as their obligations, such as filing for overtime (OT) on the proper sheets and in the proper manner. If, at any time, a member believes that an SIU patrolman or other union official fails to protect their contractual rights properly, he or she should contact the nearest SIU port agent. EDITORIAL POLICY — THE SEAFARERS LOG. The Seafarers LOG traditionally has refrained from publishing any article serving the political purposes of any individual in the union, officer or member. It also has refrained from publishing articles deemed harmful to the union or its collective membership. This established policy has been reaffirmed by membership action at the September 1960 meetings in all constitutional ports. The responsibility for Seafarers LOG policy is vested in an editorial board which consists of the executive board of the union. The executive board may delegate, from among its ranks, one individual to carry out this responsibility. PAYMENT OF MONIES. No monies are to be paid to anyone in any official capacity in the SIU unless an official union receipt is given for same. Under no circumstances should any member pay any money for any reason unless he is given such receipt. In the event anyone attempts to require any such payment be made without supplying a receipt, or if a member is required to make a payment and is given an official receipt, but feels that he or she should not have been required to make such payment, this should immediately be reported to union headquarters. CONSTITUTIONAL RIGHTS AND OBLIGATIONS. Copies of the SIU Constitution are available in all union halls. All members should obtain copies of this constitution so as to familiarize themselves with its contents. Any time a member feels any other member or officer is attempting to deprive him or her of any constitutional right or obligation by any methods, such as dealing with charges, trials, etc., as well as all other details, the member so affected should immediately notify headquarters. EQUAL RIGHTS. All members are guaranteed equal rights in employment and as members of the SIU. These rights are clearly set forth in the SIU Constitution and in the contracts which the union has negotiated with the employers. Consequently, no member may be discriminated against because of race, creed, color, sex, national or geographic origin. If any member feels that he or she is denied the equal rights to which he or she is entitled, the member should notify union headquarters. SEAFARERS POLITICAL ACTIVITY DONATION — SPAD. SPAD is a separate segregated fund. Its proceeds are used to further its objects and purposes including, but not limited to, furthering the political, social and economic interests of maritime workers, the preservation and furthering of the American merchant marine with improved employment opportunities for seamen and boatmen and the advancement of trade union concepts. In connection with such objects, SPAD supports and contributes to political candidates for elective office. All contributions are voluntary. No contribution may be solicited or received because of force, job discrimination, financial reprisal, or threat of such conduct, or as a condition of membership in the union or of employment. If a contribution is made by reason of the above improper conduct, the member should notify the Seafarers International Union or SPAD by certified mail within 30 days of the contribution for investigation and appropriate action and refund, if involuntary. A member should support SPAD to protect and further his or her economic, political and social interests, and American trade union concepts. NOTIFYING THE UNION — If at any time a member feels that any of the above rights have been violated, or that he or she has been denied the constitutional right of access to union records or information, the member should immediately notify SIU President Michael Sacco at headquarters by certified mail, return receipt requested. The address is: Michael Sacco, President Seafarers International Union 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746. August 2011 �65472_LOG_X 8/2/2011 6:26 AM Page 21 P a u l H a ll C e nt e r U p g ra d ing C o u rs e Sc he d u le The following is the schedule of courses at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md., for the next few months. All programs are geared to improving the job skills of Seafarers and to promoting the American maritime industry. Please note that this schedule may change to reflect the needs of the membership, the maritime industry and—in times of conflict—the nation’s security. Students attending any of these classes should check in the Saturday before their course’s start date. The courses listed here will begin promptly on the morning of the start dates. For classes ending on a Friday, departure reservations should be made for Saturday. Seafarers who have any questions regarding the upgrading courses offered at the Paul Hall Center may call the admissions office at (301) 994-0010. Title of Course Start Date October 28 ARPA August 20 August 26 Bosun Recertification October 15 November 7 ECDIS November 12 November 18 Fast Rescue Boats August 20 August 26 GMDSS August 27 November 26 September 9 December 9 Lifeboat August 20 September 2 STOS August 27 October 29 September 9 November 11 Radar renewal (one day) September 7 September 7 Radar Observer August 6 August 19 Tanker Asst. Cargo DL September 17 September 30 Tank Barge PIC October 8 October 14 October 14 December 9 August 20 October 15 Junior Engineer August 20 October 14 Marine Electrician September 24 November 18 Pumpman September 17 September 30 Welding October 1 October 29 October 21 November 18 Galley Operations/Advanced Galley Operations These modules start every Monday. October 1 FOWT Date of Completion Steward Department Chief Steward October 8 November 18 Chief Cook These modules start every other week. The most recent class began July 25. Able Seaman Engine Department September 17 November 12 Start Date Date of Completion Deck Department BAPO Title of Course September 16 November 11 UPGRADING APPLICATION Name ____________________________________________________________________ Address __________________________________________________________________ Safety Upgrading Courses Advanced Firefighting September 17 November 12 September 30 November 25 Basic Firefighting/STCW September 10 October 1 September 16 October 7 Government Vessels August 13 August 19 Medical Care Provider October 1 November 26 October 7 December 2 Vessel Security Officer October 15 October 18 NOTICE: NMC Web Site is Vital Resource for Mariners The National Maritime Center (NMC), the licensing authority for the U.S. Coast Guard, offers a comprehensive web site covering mariner credentialing, medical guidelines and much more. The site features a wide range of applications and forms, deck- and engine-department exam information, lists of Coast Guardapproved courses and more. Seafarers are encouraged to check out the site at:http://www.uscg.mil/nmc/ Mariners may call the NMC at 1888-IASKNMC (1-888-427-5662). Operational hours are 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. EST, Monday through Friday. (The NMC is closed for all federal holidays.) Various email forms also are available through the NMC web site. With this application, COPIES of the following must be sent: One hundred and twentyfive (125) days seatime for the previous year, one day in the last six months prior to the date your class starts, USMMD (z-card) front and back or relevant pages of merchant mariner credential, front page of your union book indicating your department and seniority, qualifying seatime for the course if it is Coast Guard tested, 1995 STCW Certificate, valid SHBP Clinic Card and TWIC. _________________________________________________________________________ Date of Birth ______________________________________________________________ ____________________________ START DATE _______________ Deep Sea Member ❏ ____________________________ _______________ _______________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________ Telephone (Home)_________________________ (Cell)_________________________ Lakes Member ❏ Inland Waters Member ❏ If the following information is not filled out completely, your application will not be processed. Social Security #_______________________ Book # ____________________________ Seniority_____________________________ COURSE DATE OF COMPLETION _______________ Department______________________ Home Port_____________________________________________________________ LAST VESSEL: __________________________________Rating: ______________ E-mail________________________________________________________________ Date On: ___________________________ Date Off:________________________ Endorsement(s) or License(s) now held______________________________________ SIGNATURE ________________________________ DATE___________________ _________________________________________________________________________ NOTE: Transportation will be paid in accordance with the scheduling letter only if you present original receipts and successfully complete the course. If you have any questions, contact your port agent before departing for Piney Point. Not all classes are reimbursable.Return completed application to: Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education Admissions Office, P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674-0075; or fax to (301) 994-2189. Are you a graduate of the SHLSS/PHC trainee program? ❏ Yes ❏ No If yes, class # ______________________________________________________________ Have you attended any SHLSS/PHC upgrading courses? ❏ Yes ❏ No If yes, course(s) taken_____________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________________ August 2011 The Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education is a private, non-profit, equal opportunity institution and admits students, who are otherwise qualified, of any race, nationality or sex. The school complies with applicable laws with regard to admission, access or treatment of students in its programs or activities. 8/11 Seafarers LOG 21 �65472_LOG_X 8/2/2011 6:18 AM Page 22 P a u l H a l l C en t er C l a s s es Unlicensed Apprentice Water Survival Class 746 – Nineteen Phase 1 unlicensed apprentices and upgraders completed this course May 13. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Ahmed Ali, Autuan Barnes, Apolinario Calacal, Richard Cristiani, Matthew Curtis, Sage Embleton, Terry Frazier, Davis Freitas, Steven Gagnon, Cindy Granter, Frank Jennings, Trevor Manion, Samer Naji, Leo Onofrio, Joseph Panella, Kyle Pardun, Steven Parthemos, Casey Pearson and Daniel Stepnik. (Note: Not all are pictured.) ARPA – The following individuals (above, in alphabetical order) finished their requirements Welding – Six upgraders graduated from this course May 27. Completing their requirements and receiving certificates (above, in alphabetical order) were: Harold Borden, Marcus Brown, Michael Jones, Pierre Norwood, Gregory Shields and Sanyboy Whiting. Buzzy Andrews, their instructor, is standing at left in the back row. Fast Rescue Boat – Ten individuals completed this course May 6. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Shawn Bising, Janos Bognar, Brandon Braam, DeCarlo Harris, Brandon Hubble, Edgardo Ines, Ryan Landers, Raymond Maldonado, Gustavo Osorio and Angelo Schiraldi. Class Instructor Tom Truitt is standing at the far right. in this course May 13: Greg Allman, David Callis, Scottie Duncan, Mark Faust, Edward Garner, David Goodwin, Riley Johnson Jr., and Brian Willis. Tankship Familiarization DL (Phase III) – Two classes of Phase III unlicensed apprenticed completed this class May 20. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Kenneth Atkinson, Edward Baker, Jason Bentz, Matthew Botterbusch, James Burnett Jr., Melvin Cooper, Michael Deren, Reno Duque, Scott Gilleland, Nathan Graddick, Deborah Hutchings, Joseph Koncul, James Kuck, Anthony Lowe, Corey Moore Newberry, Clint Omisong, Ryan Papa, Steven Patton, Andrew Powell, James Reynolds, Khadim Robinson, Gerald Scott, Emanuel Spain, Marilou Toledo and Steven Whiting. Class Instructor Jim Shaffer is at the far left. BST – The following individuals (above, in alphabetical order) completed this course May 20: Towfiak Ahmed, Antuan Barnes, Kevin Conklin, Chantell Dawson, Joel Fahselt, Peter Hokenson, Kenneth Lockhart, Gustavo Osorio and Daunteley Signal Jr. Class Instructor Tom Truitt is at the far right. (Note: Not all are pictured.) BST – Twenty-five Seafarers finished this course May 13. Graduating (photo at right, in alphabetical order) were: Saleh Ahmed, Leo Bonser, Rafael Borja, Sirio Centino, Lawrence Croft, Manuel Enrico, John Haller, Thommie Hampton, Abdul Hasan, Edgardo Ines, Richard Jefferson, Roslyn Johnson, Randolph Llanes, Eric Lund, Patrick Lynch, Dennis McClelland Jr., James Moore, Nathalie Norie, Steven Ramos, Steven Reiber, Abdulmoghni Said, Eissa Saleh, Ahmed Sharif, Crescencio Suazo and Ladimer Vlack. Their instructors, Wayne Johnson and Mike Roberts, are at the far left and far right respectively. (Note: Not all are pictured.) 22 Seafarers LOG August 2011 �65472_LOG 7/28/2011 4:46 PM Page 23 Pa u l H a l l C e n t e r C l a s s e s Advanced Firefighting – The following individuals (photo at left, in alphabetical order) completed this course May 13: Ray Adams Jr., Gregorio Abalos, Michael Carvalho, Daniel Coffman, John Coleman Jr., Sylvester Crawford Jr., Harold Gerber II, Andrew Greenwood, Gary Hirsch, Mark Hoffman, Peter Hokenson, Maximo Lambert, Kenneth Lockhart, Dustin Marks, John Nersten, Robert Orloff III, Hector Ortiz, Carlos Sanchez, Gheorghe Savencu, Charles Walker Jr., Jesse Willard and John Young. Class Instructors Wayne Johnson and Joe Zienda are standing second from the right and far right respectively. Important Notice Students who have registered for classes at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, but later discover—for whatever reason—that they cannot attend should inform the admissions department immediately so arrangements can be made to have other students take their places. ECDIS – Six Seafarers completed their requirements in this course May 28. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Ray Adams Jr., Robert Boudreaux, John Crawford, Samuel Lloyd, Dustin Marks, and Hector Ortiz. Brad Wheeler, their instructor, is second from the left. Vessel Security Officer – Five individuals finished this course May 10. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Robert Boudreaux, Brandon Braam, Samuel Lloyd, Patrick Spicker and Troy Tadlock. Class Instructor Brad Wheeler is at right. STOS – Seven upgraders finished their requirements in this course May 27. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Ezallah Ali, Ryan Boltz, Arnold Castro, Charles Hosea Jr., Jordache Hunter, Eissa Saleh and Micheal Williams. Bernabe Pelingon, their instructor, is at left. BST (HAWAII) – The following individuals (above, in no particular order) completed this course at the Seafarers Training Facility in Barbers Point, Hawaii June 4: Melissa Antonellis, Rakesh Bhalla, Hollie Bussler, James Fehrle, Jose Garcia Bustillo, Melissa Healey, Scean-Michael Higgins, Ashley Jeter, Jimmy Maciel, Marcos Pucha, Catelyn Rydzewski, Christopher Thigpin, Meghan Winrich, Daniel Young and Neil Allem. August 2011 Basic & Advanced Firefighting – The following individuals (above, in alphabetical order) graduated from this course May 27: Daniel Beuk, Timmy Daigle, Pat Gray, William Tucker, Ronald Walker and James Woods. Class Instructor Wayne Johnson in kneeling in the center. BST (HAWAII) - Fifteen individuals finished this course June 25 in Hawaii. Graduating (above, in no particular order) were: Anna McLaughlin, Derek Bradford, Christopher Carlock, Lizet Collazo, Kathlyn Walter, Michael Hicks, Stephen Jackson, Clarissa Leon, Lauren Odend’hal, James Patti, Eric Riebel, Stacy Rosenbaum, Chaz Templeton, Gavin Ware and Joseph West. Seafarers LOG 23 �65472_LOG 7/28/2011 4:46 PM Page 24 Volume 73, Number 8 August 2011 N OA A S h i p Fa ir w ea t h er S t a r t s Ar c t i c M i s s i on P ag e 1 0 The Liberty Promise can carry up to 6,500 cars and/or Department of Defense equipment such as tanks, helicopters, HUMVEES and MRAPS. Put another way, it can carry approximately enough cargo to fill eight football fields. Seafarers in Action Aboard Liberty Promise SIU members sailing aboard Liberty Maritime’s Liberty Promise helped take on cargo and performed other duties July 19 in Jacksonville, Fla. The photos on this page show some of the scenes on and around the vessel that day. The Liberty Promise joined the SIU-contracted fleet last year. Built in 2009, the vessel is a 655-foot car carrier. The ship, which has a beam of more than 105 feet and can sail at greater than 20 knots, carries commercial cargo as well as Defense Department cargo. Pictured from left to right are SIU Jacksonville Safety Director Ashley Nelson, AB Jorge Gamboa, Patrolman Brian Guiry and Recertified Bosun Jesse Natividad. AB Mario Rascon (above) and SA Edward Baker (right) Chief Cook Gerald Joseph (left) prepares a meal in the Liberty Promise galley while fellow crew members (above and below) go about their business of working with cargo. Unlicensed Apprentices Steve Gagnon and Steven Parthemos � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Seafarers Log Issues 2010-2019 Description An account of the resource Volumes LXXII-LXXXI of the Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Seafarers Log Digital Copies Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 2010-2019 Document A resource containing textual data. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre text. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource August 2011 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES SIU MEMBERS RETAIN KEY JOBS MAERSK LINE, LTD. LANDS 2 DOD CONTRACTS SAFETY REFRESHER TRAINING AT PAUL HALL CENTER KEY MARITIME ISSUES DISCUSSED WITH SENATOR INSTITUTE CITES JONES ACT’S VALUE TO AMERICA’S NATIONAL SECURITY UNION RETAINS JOBS AS MAERSK WINS CONTRACTS OPERATING AGREEMENTS AWARDED FOR PREPOS, ICE-STRENGTHENED TANKER MEMBERS APPROVE GREAT LAKES CONTRACTS NEW WORK AGREEMENTS FEATURE NOTEWORTHY GAINS FOR SIU CREWS PIRACY ATTACKS INCREASE CROWLEY, KEYSTONE, LIBTERY MARITIME EARN AMERICAN MARITIME SAFETY AWARDS, WILL RECEIVE IN NEW YORK SHBP RELEASES UPDATED GUIDE FOR ACTIVE MEMBERS PROPOSED NLRB RULES AIM TO PROTECT WORKERS’ RIGHTS OP-ED ILLUMINATES BOARD’S BOEING COMPLAINT CRITICS CLAIM COMPANY’S MOTIVE ILLEGAL LABOR FEDERATION STRONGLY ADVOCATES JOB TRAINING, INFRASTRUCTURE INVESTMENT AOTOS HONOREES WILL RECEIVE ACCOLADES IN NY UNITED SEAMEN’S SERVICES SALUTES GENERAL MCNABB, HENRY, SOMERVILLE DHS UNVEILS PLAN TO REPAIR, UPGRADE MARITIME COORDINATION WITH SEAFARERS ON THE WEST COAST NACY PRESENTS SHIP SAFETY AWARD TO USS LAND RETIRED OFFICIAL GILL DIES AT 84 MAERSK MARINERS EARN AWARDS FOR SHIPBOARD SAFETY PRACTICES USNS BOWDITCH PARITICPATES IN NOBLE VIETNAM MISSION COAST GUARD CHANGE OF COMMAND IN HOUSTON NOAA VESSEL STARTS HISTORIC ARCTIC CIRCLE MISSION CROWLEY CREWS TO TACKLE SAFETY TRAINING AT UNION AFFILIATED PAUL HALL CENTER. Seafarers in action aboard Liberty Promise Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Seafarers Log Digital Copies Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 08/01/2011 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Newsprint Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context Vol. 73, No. 8 2011 Periodicals Seafarers Log http://www.seafarerslog.org/archives/files/original/357f3645e09b32210327c4dcf6262e02.pdf 95fd2fb6f81eb42b009e821b6166e74c PDF Text Text 66070_SIU_LOG 8/29/2011 5:15 PM Page 1 Volume 73, Number 9 September 2011 Waterman Reflagging Cargo Ship ‘Ice Class’ Vessel Will Sail Under Stars and Stripes Following an early August announcement that Seafarers-contracted Waterman Steamship had won a U.S. Military Sealift Command bid to operate a dry cargo “ice class” ship for up to five years, the company moved ahead with plans to bring the MV Federal Patroller (photo at right) under the American flag. The vessel is expected to sail to McMurdo Station in Antarctica and Thule Air Force Base in Greenland. Page 2. (Photo by Stan Laundon) SIU Boatmen Welcome New OSG Tug, Barge Seafarers Stand in Solidarity With CWA, IBEW Workers at Verizon OSG America earlier this summer took delivery of the tug Courageous (photo below) and a corresponding barge, the OSG 244. The new ATB will operate in the Jones Act trade, carrying refined petroleum products in the Gulf of Mexico. A sister ATB is slated for delivery in the near future, possibly as soon as this month. Pictured aboard the Courageous during a recent stop near Ft. Lauderdale, Fla., is Cook Bob Simpson. SIU members and officials on the East Coast turned out in several locations to demonstrate support for striking Verizon employees who are members of the Communications Workers of America or the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers. The CWA and IBEW members returned to work Aug. 22, under an extension of their old agreements, as the unions and company went back to the bargaining table. Among the SIU personnel taking part in the picket lines were (photo above) President Michael Sacco (second from left) and Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel (far right), meeting with CWA personnel in Leonardtown, Md., and (photo below, in white T-shirts, from left) Norfolk, Va.area Seafarers Willie Lupton, McKinley Thorne and Mary Slade. Page 3. CIVMAR News Pages 2, 11, 20, 24 SOS Campaign Update Page 4 Union Plus Scholarships Page 14 �66070_SIU_LOG_X 8/30/2011 7:29 PM Page 2 P re s i d e n t ’ s R e p o r t A Nation Remembers As our nation approaches the 10th anniversary of the tragic, worldaltering attacks of September 11, 2001, I’m sure millions of our fellow Americans are or soon will be feeling some of the same powerful emotions we all shared back on that incomprehensible Tuesday morning. On September 11 of this year (still more than two weeks away at the time of this writing), we will mourn the victims who worked in the Twin Towers, in the Pentagon and aboard the four airplanes, along with the passengers, remembering them with heavy hearts. Those of us in the labor movement surely will recall particularly painful-yet-proud memories of the hundreds of emergency workers – many of them union members, as were the flight crews – who gave their lives while trying to save others. We also remember the first responders, construction workers, transit Michael Sacco workers and others who raced to the scenes to secure victims. For sure, it’s a time for reflection and for respectful remembrance. Inevitably, it’s also a period to take stock of our nation’s current security efforts and how they might be strengthened moving forward. But the anniversary itself is no time for political agendas or partisanship or arguing about whether TWIC cards are worth it. Our countrymen who lost their lives on 9/11 deserve better, as do those who’ve gone to war to fight terrorism around the globe. In the SIU, we remember our own brothers and sisters who answered the nation’s call on September 11. Those unfamiliar with our history may not know that SIU-crewed NY Waterway ferries evacuated an estimated 160,000 citizens from lower Manhattan starting almost immediately after the attacks. Also, the Seafarers-crewed hospital ship USNS Comfort was activated, and it assisted by transporting medical and other support personnel to New York in addition to carrying supplies and food. (Rescue workers eventually used the ship for lodging, a precious commodity for that time and place.) Since then, thousands of Seafarers have supported our troops in the war on terror, delivering materiel to the Middle East and to other key positions and also bringing it back home. We definitely have lived up to the U.S. Merchant Marine’s historic role as the nation’s fourth arm of defense, and while I’d expect nothing less, I salute our SIU sisters and brothers for everything you’ve done in upholding our traditions. You have helped make America and indeed the world a safer place – a point that’s been made by some of America’s highest-ranking military leaders. As an American, my memories of September 11 probably aren’t all that different from those of most others. I remember the feelings of shock and anger, the sorrow for the victims and their families, and the determination to fight back. But specifically as the president of the SIU, I have powerful and inspiring memories of our members going to the union halls or constantly staying in touch right after 9/11, because they were eager to do whatever they could to pitch in. I heard from our port agents and in some cases saw for myself the serious, unmistakable resolve in our members even when we were all uncertain about the exact nature of our military response. Those Seafarers didn’t have to be asked if they were ready and willing and able. They stepped forward and asked, “What can we do to help defend our country?” (Some put it in more colorful terms, but the patriotic message was the same.) It was said over and over again right after September 11 that “everything changed,” and that America would never be the same. While I think that’s proven to be true in some ways, and certainly not all of them bad, the attacks did not lessen America’s greatness. If anything, the selflessness and heroism displayed by the rescue workers that day reflected the very best of the human spirit – the very best of the United States. We also proved that we’re capable of truly uniting as a people, and that’s something I hope comes back to the surface as we mourn together this month. Those of us in the nation’s capital when the recent earthquake struck on August 23 showed that spirit is still within us. Much of our nation’s excellence stems from our diversity. Yet, we are all Americans first. And when we stand united, no one can take us down. Volume 73, Number 9 September 2011 The SIU online: www.seafarers.org The Seafarers LOG (ISSN 1086-4636) is published monthly by the Seafarers International Union; Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU, AFLCIO; 5201 Auth Way; Camp Springs, MD 20746. Telephone (301) 899-0675. Periodicals postage paid at Southern Maryland 20790-9998. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to the Seafarers LOG, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. Communications Director, Jordan Biscardo; Managing Editor/Production, Jim Guthrie; Assistant Editor, Paddy Lehane; Photographers, Mike Hickey and Harry Gieske; Administrative Support, Misty Dobry. Copyright © 2011 Seafarers International Union, AGLIWD. All Rights Reserved. The Seafarers International Union engaged an environmentally friendly printer for the production of this newspaper. 2 Seafarers LOG The Federal Patroller soon will sail under the American flag, with an SIU crew. (Photo by Stan Laundon) Waterman Flagging In Cargo Ship SIU-contracted Waterman Steamship in early August won a U.S. Military Sealift Command (MSC) bid to operate a dry cargo “ice class” vessel for up to five years – an award signaling job security for Seafarers. As a result, the company is in the process of reflagging the MV Federal Patroller under the Stars and Stripes. The 11-year-old vessel currently sails under the Cyprus flag. It is 469 feet long and can sail at slightly more than 15 knots. The ship’s main missions are expected to be re-supply voyages to McMurdo Station in Antarctica and Thule Air Force Base in Greenland. “This award means that the SIU will retain work that Seafarers have very ably handled for many years,” said SIU Vice President Contracts George Tricker. “It’s great news for the membership, and Waterman is to be congratulated.” MSC notified the company in a letter dated Aug. 3. The agency indicated that the vessel is to commence operations between mid- and late December of this year. The respective voyages to Antarctica and Greenland will offer Seafarers a chance to continue a decades-old tradition of support by U.S. Merchant Mariners. The Antarctica mission, known as Operation Deep Freeze, consists of not only delivering vital supplies to the National Science Foundation’s McMurdo Station, but also bringing back items ranging from valuable ice core samples to all the waste that the station accumulates during the prior year. That operation has been backed by the U.S. Merchant Marine since 1952. The trip to Greenland, meanwhile, has been a regular run for American crews since 1956. Known as Operation Pacer Goose, it is the main supply line for Thule Air Force Base, which is located halfway between the North Pole and the Arctic Circle. There are no local resources to sustain the base’s residents. More Progress in CMPI 610 Negotiations The SIU Government Services Division, the U.S. Military Sealift Command (MSC) and the Military Sealift Fleet Support Command (MSFSC) are continuing negotiations on the Civilian Marine Personnel Instruction (CMPI) 610. The negotiations started in January 2010 and most recently continued in early July at SIU headquarters in Camp Springs, Md. The parties are close to completing substantive negotiations with only a few provisions remaining that need to be drafted or further refined. The bargaining teams did not meet in May but resumed their negotiations in June at SIU headquarters, assisted by Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service (FMCS) Mediator Rob Henninger. The June meeting lasted four full days and covered a wide range of topics. Among the major subjects discussed were: meals served to extra persons, meal hours, compensatory time, gangway watches, working aloft and reduced operation status (ROS). The parties also analyzed the data gathered from surveys distributed to the fleet regarding engine department welding. SIU Government Services Division officials described the July negotiating session as very important and productive. The parties revisited every newly drafted provision to ensure consistency and clarity. While little substantive language was changed, the negotiators succeeded in revising several previously drafted provisions to make them easier to understand and more coherent within the larger document. Moreover, the parties revisited many of the previously drafted sections in order to further refine and update the language based on information requests and surveys. The negotiating teams also focused on the overall organization of the new CMPI 610 with the goal of making it more userfriendly and concise than the current version. As previously reported, these negotiations are intended to ensure that the new CMPI 610 will be as clearly written as possible and, as a result, will be applied consistently on all vessels throughout the fleet. Along with uniformity and clarity in the revised document, the union is focused on ensur- ing that as work rules are modified, the overtime and penalty wages of CIVMARS are protected to the greatest possible extent. All consensus agreements will be reviewed at the end of the negotiations to determine if, as a result of any changes, CIVMARS have experienced more than a minor negative impact. The rules will also be reviewed to ensure that CIVMARS have not experienced an unintended gain. In addition to finalizing the substantive negotiations, the SIU and MSC are moving through the CMPI 610 financial modeling process. The purpose of financial modeling is to achieve two main goals. From the SIU’s perspective, the goal is to ensure that as a result of rule changes to the CMPI 610, unlicensed CIVMARS will not experience a significant adverse economic impact. From MSC’s perspective the changes must fit into the negotiation ground rule which requires that the cost of the rule changes will remain within one percent (plus or minus) of MSC’s fleet-wide overtime budget. Financial modeling is completed by MSC representatives, MSC subject matter experts, union representatives, accountants and legal department members. Rule changes are analyzed in detail using payroll information from 22 MSC vessels. In addition to the information in the payrolls, financial modeling team members review ships’ logs and vessel masters’ certificates as well as consult various vessel personnel to ensure that the information collected is as accurate as possible. The union anticipates that the financial modeling for SIU-proposed CMPI 610 provisions will be completed this fall. If the SIU and MSC believe that changes are within the ground rule parameters, CMPI 610 negotiations will be complete and the implementation process will begin. If the parameters are not met, the parties will return to the table to complete negotiations and work through issues to ensure that the parties’ goals are met. The union will keep MSC CIVMARS advised of the progress through future LOG articles and CIVMAR-GRAMS. September 2011 �66070_SIU_LOG 8/29/2011 5:15 PM Page 3 SIU Exec. VP Augie Tellez (center) walks with CWA members in La Plata, Md. Members of CWA Local 2107 deliver their message in southern Maryland. SIU Supports CWA, IBEW Members More than 45,000 members of the Communications Workers of America (CWA) and International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) spent over two weeks on strike from early to midAugust following the breakdown of negotiations between the unions and Verizon Communications. Workers from all over the East Coast decided to strike in order to combat anti-worker and badfaith negotiating tactics by the company. SIU members and officials walked picket lines in solidarity with the striking workers knowing full well that the CWA/IBEW fight is a stand for working people across the country. Rank-and-file members and officials walked the line in several locations, including Baltimore, Leonardtown, Md., and La Plata, Md., as well as Norfolk, Va. After more than two weeks of struggle, Verizon decided to return to the table and practice good-faith negotiating and the workers returned to their jobs with questions remaining about the future of their contracts. Negotiations for a new labor agreement began in late June and since that time Verizon has been pushing for billions in concessions, effectively attempting to roll back more than 50 years of gains. According to the CWA, management wanted “to freeze the pension plan for covered workers and eliminate it entirely for all others, dramatically increase health care costs for active workers and retirees, and base wage increases on subjective evaluations by supervisors.” And while CWA and IBEW members have returned to work, the issues surrounding the clash between rich corporations and the working class still stand. “We cannot stand by while one of the richest, most successful corporations in the world joins the race to decimate the middle class of this country,” said IBEW President Edwin Hill at the height of the strike. “We remain ready to meet with Verizon to work out a fair agreement, but at this point, we had no choice.” After a month of half-hearted negotiations by the company, CWA workers overwhelmingly voted to authorize a strike if Verizon continued to make counterproductive and unrealistic demands. On Aug. 8, workers decided that enough was enough and hit the streets. “Verizon employees have been waiting since June 22 for management to bargain at all,” said Candice Johnson, CWA communications director. “Even at contract expiration, Verizon continued to demand $1 billion in concessions per year. That’s $20,000 for every worker. That demand is coming from a $100 billion company, where the top five executives got compensation of $258 million over the past four years.” Members of both unions offered numerous concessions to the company, but Verizon refused to compromise and move off their demands for serious cuts and benefits rollbacks. At the start of the strike, according to CWA, there were nearly 100 of the company’s demands still on the table with the company offering no signs that it would negotiate seriously. The demands that Verizon is making of their workers, according to the AFLCIO, come down to simple greed. The company is attempting ride a wave of anti-worker sentiment now and keep wages low for years to come. The company rationale is that its landline sector, where most of the striking workers are employed, has suffered losses over the past decade. However, financial statistics point out that the company has 2011 revenue of $108 billion with net profits of $6 billion. In addition, the com- pany received a $1.3 billion tax credit from the U.S. government. The strike was effectively called off on Aug. 20 after Verizon and the unions agreed to continue negotiations. Workers began going back to their jobs on Aug. 22. In a joint announcement, the CWA and IBEW expressed gratitude for the support they received from people around the country and remained cautiously optimistic about the future negotiations. “We have reached agreement with Verizon on how bargaining will proceed and how it will be restructured,” the statement read. “The major issues remain to be discussed, but overall, issues now are focused and narrowed. We appreciate the unity of our members and the support of so many in the greater community. Now we will focus on bargaining fairly and moving forward.” ACU Nkrumah Bond (center) and AB Julius Morala (right) are pictured with a CWA demonstrator in Norfolk, Va. Flanked by members of the Communications Workers of America on a picket line in Norfolk, Va., (photo at left) are Seafarers (left to right, starting second from left) AB Lamar Walton, AB Timothy Squire and GVA Anthony Michael. In the photo above, Seafarers and Phase 1 Unlicensed Apprentices from the union-affiliated Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md., join CWA picketers in Leonardtown, Md., the day before the strike was called off. Sealand Comet Rescues Yachtsman Stranded in Pacific Ocean Seafarers aboard the Maersk Line, Limited containership Sealand Comet recently participated in a daring rescue of a stranded yachtsman. The ship, which was crossing the Pacific from Japan to Los Angeles, rescued the man from his sailboat during a typhoon. In the early morning hours of July 24, the vessel received a distress call from Japanese Coast Guard personnel who were September 2011 looking for the distressed sailboat. The containership chose to divert its course and assist in the search. At around 7 a.m., the boat – by then without sails – was spotted in rough seas. In the midst of a category 1 typhoon, the boat was being thrashed with gale winds of at least 40 knots. The crew found the sailor, identified as Joe McCracken, and brought him to safety. He is reported to be in good condition and is extremely grateful for the actions of all those aboard the Comet for his rescue. “The saving of Mr. McCracken’s life can be directly attributed to the training and skill of the Sealand Comet officers and crew, capably demonstrated under extreme weather conditions,” said Ed Hanley, Maersk Line, Limited vice president. The crew also received commendation from the Japanese Coast Guard for their “excellent seamanship.” SIU members aboard the vessel at the time of the rescue included Bosun Matthew Bevak; ABs Emmanuel Buyser, Victor Frazier, Eric Lund, Robert Stenehjem, Gil Villena, and Samuel Lampshire; QE Alton Hickman, Sr.; QEE Rene Rosario; SB Howard Lewis; GUDE Rezk Mohamed; Chief Cook Wiley Owens; and SA Ziyad Omar. Seafarers LOG 3 �66070_SIU_LOG 8/29/2011 5:15 PM Page 4 Early stages of the project include removing old piers and bulkheads, as shown in these two photos. Piney Point Project ‘Moving Right Along’ Numerous Upgrades Planned During Waterfront Restoration Upgraders, unlicensed apprentices, and guests at the Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md., might notice some changes happening on the union-affiliated school’s waterfront in the coming months. The waterfront restoration project is in full swing and school officials are optimistic about the progress being made. As of press time, construction crews are in the process of deconstructing over 1,500 feet of the old piers and removing over 1,000 feet of old bulkheads to make way for a variety of new and improved features to the waterfront. “We’re moving right along with the first stage of this project,” said Don Nolan, vice president of the Paul Hall Center. “In fact, in addition to still being on budget, our plans are progressing according to schedule.” The waterfront restoration project is a much-anticipated venture aimed at adding to the aesthetic value of the school and, more importantly, improving facilities for students and their families. In addition to the new pier, the project includes plans for a new seawall, a waterfront park, a 250-foot breakwater, a single-point davit with fast rescue boat Support Grows for ‘SOS’ Campaign The Save Our Seafarers campaign recently reported a milestone: More than 20,000 individually signed letters have been sent from www.saveourseafarers.com to the heads of governments across the globe. “This is a great achievement in such a short time and we also wanted to update you on campaign achievements and news highlights,” a campaign spokesperson said in an early August communication. “Since our launch in March, SaveOurSeafarers has continued to gather support. Supporters from 73 countries have sent letters to their heads of state. Also, www.saveourseafarers.com has had over 65,000 visitors from 175 countries to the site since its launch. Our Facebook page now has 3,748 fans and we have 657 followers on Twitter.” The message continued, “Our campaign has attracted significant global media attention…. We’ve had incredible results in a very short timescale. Your support has been overwhelming. Thank you for every letter, every like and every tweet.” The campaign is far from finished, though. For the latest updates, visit the campaign site. Meanwhile, campaign sponsors – includ- ing the International Transport Workers’ Federation, to which the SIU is affiliated – recently said that piracy is “claiming lives and threatening global trade on a daily basis.” In a joint message on the campaign site, the organizations said, “We understand the problems Somalia faces (the most prolific area for attacks) after 20 years of vicious civil war but we believe our innocent seafarers and the global economy have the right to protection. All we ask is for governments to take a firmer stance to help eradicate piracy. We need committed action now and want governments around the globe to prioritize six key actions: reducing the effectiveness of the easily identifiable motherships; authorizing naval forces to hold pirates and deliver them for prosecution and punishment; fully criminalizing all acts of piracy and intent to commit piracy under national laws, in accordance with their mandatory duty to cooperate to suppress piracy under international conventions; increasing naval assets available in the affected areas; providing greater protection and support for seafarers; and tracing and criminalizing the organizers and financiers behind the criminal networks.” The SOS web site features numerous resources including news updates, videos and more. 4 Seafarers LOG capabilities, a new gravity davit for lifeboat training, a pier site for the training vessel MV John F. Fay, and other state-of-the-art equipment that will serve to reinforce what Seafarers learn in the classroom. Ground was broken on the project in May 2010. The development is expected to be completed next year. The LOG will run regular updates on the project from now to completion. International Bargaining Forum Reaches Three-Year Agreement The International Bargaining Forum (IBF), consisting of representatives of the International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF, representing mariners) and the Joint Negotiating Group (JNG, representing employers), recently announced that it has reached a three-year agreement. The announcement followed negotiations that took place in Miami in late July. Established in 2003, the IBF is a mechanism through which representatives from maritime labor and management negotiate wages and conditions of employment for mariners serving aboard thousands of ships worldwide. IBF agreements are only available to ship operating companies that are members of the JNG and only may be signed by ITF-affiliated unions. According to a joint statement, the bargaining was “hard-fought by both sides.” The new pact takes effect in January 2012; it includes annual wage increases, financial incentives to bring more vessels under an IBF agreement, and revisions reflecting the current scourge of piracy. Many other components also are included in the updated agreement, including provisions aimed at helping companies develop disciplinary and grievance procedures, as well as helping ensure a steady supply of qualified shipboard manpower. SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel, who serves as chair of the ITF Seafarers’ Section, stated, “The last few years have put a great pressure on both sides of the IBF to be seen as acting responsibly in support of both the seafarers and those that employ them. The collapse in the world financial market has led to employers wanting to minimize their cost increases in difficult times and has put pressure on those who represent the seafarers to understand this financial situation, while ensuring that they are protecting the interest and livelihoods of their members. The final agreement that we have reached has demonstrated the ability of the two sides to work together being both constructive and representative. This agreement bears testament to the strength of the IBF process and its ability to reach conclusions in difficult times, on difficult issues.” Giles Heimann, secretary-general of the International Maritime Employers’ Committee (IMEC) and joint secretary of the JNG, added, “The final outcome reached by the IBF is both a pragmatic and mutually acceptable agreement for both sides. The IBF system has yet again demonstrated the ability of both sides of the table to work closely together in examining the core issues at hand; and through debate, negotiation, respect for each other’s opinions and understanding, a solution has been found, which allows us all to confirm that we have achieved a good result for our constituents.” According to the ITF (to which the SIU is affiliated), IBF negotiations are separate from the discussions about the ITF benchmark and other ITF agreements. Negotiations take place every two years for the IBF framework agreement. Once the framework agreement has been negotiated, ITF-affiliated unions begin local negotiations with companies in their country. These local negotiations result in national and sometimes company-wide IBF agreements. While the entitlements may vary slightly, all IBF agreements must be within the IBF framework agreed for the period. September 2011 �66070_SIU_LOG_X 8/30/2011 7:14 PM Page 5 Retired ILA President Bowers Dies at 88 John M. Bowers, the seventh international president of International Longshoremen’s Association (ILA), AFL-CIO, passed away Aug. 21 in his home on Long Island, N.Y. He was 88. A native of Manhattan, N. Y., Bowers also served as president of the ILA’s Atlantic Coast District for 20 years and was Vice President on the Executive Boards of the AFL-CIO’s Maritime Trades Department and Transportation Trades Department. During his term as ILA president, he served as the union’s chief negotiator in wage scale meetings with shipping employers and was responsible for bringing stability and growth to the industry for decades. Bowers was the architect of the six-year Master Contract covering ILA workers from Maine to Texas which remained in effect until September 2010 and brought wage increases and protection of health benefits to tens of thousands of ILA members and their families. “He provided a steady hand during a critical time for the industry,” said SIU President Michael Sacco upon receiving news of Bowers’ passing. “He was a very responsible man who brought a lot of stability to the waterfront. “John was a good trade unionist and he will be missed,” Sacco concluded. “The ILA family and the entire labor movement today has lost one of its most outstanding and important figures…. John Bowers helped shape this ILA into one of the most successful unions,” said Harold Daggett, who was elected ILA president in July. “I have lost my friend, my mentor,” said Richard P. Hughes Jr., a close friend and ally who succeeded Bowers as president in 2007 and who retired earlier this year. A highly decorated military veteran, Bowers served in the U.S. Army during World War II as a radio operator in the Fourth Armored Division. His unit was involved in campaigns throughout Europe, winning a Presidential Citation and five battle stars in the process. Following the war, Bowers joined ILA Local 824, which was headed by his father and uncle and whose members manned the passenger ship piers on the West Side of Manhattan. John M. Bowers He was elected to a series of local and regional union offices before his election as executive vice president. Bowers continued to hold elective office until his death, serving for nearly 50 years as Local 824 president, and as an executive board member of the International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF), a worldwide labor Union, School, SIU-Contracted Companies Help Lead the Way For Military Veterans In response to the sometimes-overwhelming hurdles that veterans of the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan are facing upon returning from overseas, President Barack Obama has proposed a new tax credit that would benefit employers that hire veterans. The $120 million dollar credit will encourage companies to hire these returning warriors, who at present face a disproportionately high unemployment rate. The unemployment rate for veterans in July was 12.4 percent whereas the national unemployment rate was 9.1 percent for the same time period. The new tax credit plan, dubbed the “Returning Heroes Tax Credit,” would give companies and businesses a $2,400 credit for each veteran hired who has been unemployed for less than six months. The credit doubles for hiring those who have been out of work for more than six months. While many businesses see added incentive to hire those who have fought for their country, the SIU and a number of its contracted companies are far ahead of the curve on this front, according to union officials and members of the staff at the Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md. For example, more than 200 veterans have taken classes at the school this year, and more than 1,200 have enrolled in courses at the Paul Hall Center since April 2008. “Civilian life and the military life are two different worlds, especially if your entire career had been in the Navy like me,” said J.C. Wiegman, director of vocational education at the Paul Hall Center and Navy veteran. “Most veterans look for work that is close to their training and that’s why the merchant marine is attractive to Navy and Coast Guard veterans. We speak the same language, we have worked together. A seaman on a ship is the same whether it is a combatant or noncombatant. We all need to do our part to assist them more.” At any given time, there are numerous veterans of all branches of the armed services going through training at the Paul Hall Center and September 2011 working aboard civilian and military support vessels under the SIU colors. Unlicensed Apprentice (UA) Christian Bryant, a veteran of the U.S. Marine Corps, points to several experiences and skills obtained while he was serving our country that have helped him adjust to life as a merchant mariner. “There are a lot of similarities between my military training and the training I’m doing here at the school,” said Bryant. “The discipline, the attention to detail, and the structured lifestyle are all things that I’m used to.” UA Matthew Bailer, a U.S. Navy veteran, agreed that the discipline one learns in the military is a real asset for preparing for a life at sea. “The discipline is important if you’re going out to sea,” Bailer said. “You need to learn to get along and work together.” Bailer also pointed out that work ethic, a trait that is driven into service members during their military careers, is alive and well at the school and very important. “The work ethic I’m learning at the school is similar to what I learned in the military,” said Bailer. “If you can’t work hard, you won’t make it at the school.” American veterans are returning to civilian life in vast numbers and they are ready and willing to work. The SIU, the Paul Hall Center, and SIUcontracted companies are thankfully already leading that charge. “It’s a great thing to know for sure that I’ll be working when I leave the school,” said Bryant. The school also remains ready to help anyone looking to upgrade who meets the school’s eligibility requirements. “There’s room for advancement if you’re ready to work hard and apply yourself,” Bryant noted. Veterans at the Paul Hall Center, like Bryant and Bailer, are ready to get to work. “I’m looking forward to working,” said Bailer. “I know what to expect and as long as I hold up my end of the bargain, I’ll be doing well by the time I leave.” organization representing more than six million transport workers in 78 countries. He was elected as a vice president to the ITF in March 1990 and reelected in 1994, 1998 and 2002, respectively. Bowers was also the onetime Chairman of the ITF’s Dockers Section. In 1991, he founded the ILA’s Civil Rights Committee and, at the personal invitation of the late Coretta Scott King and the Martin Luther King Center, served as Grand Marshal for the 1994 Martin Luther King Day Parade in Atlanta. Bowers also established the ILA Children’s Fund in 1993. This charity since then has raised more than $2 million for the Hole in the Wall Gang Camp in Ashford, Conn., benefiting children with cancer and other life-threatening illnesses. Bowers was a forerunner in instituting scholarship programs for ILA dependents. In 1960, he was responsible for the formation of the ILA Local 824 Scholarship later named the Michael Bowers Memorial Scholarship Fund in honor of his father. He later served as the labor co-chairman for the NYSA-ILA Teddy Gleason Scholarship Program. In October 1992, Bowers was awarded one of the maritime industry’s top honor – the Admiral of the Ocean Sea Award – presented by the United Seamen’s Service. He was also the recipient of the 1994 Connie Award presented by the Containerization and Intermodal Institute. Other maritime honors bestowed upon him included the Golden Compass Award, presented by the Seafarers House at Port Everglades, Fla.; and induction into the International Maritime Hall of Fame by the Maritime Association, Port of New York and New Jersey. Other organizations to honor Bowers in recent years included the American Cancer Society; Irish American Labor Coalition; Intrepid Sea-Air Space Museum and the Greater New York Councils Boy Scouts of America. He was the Man of the Year of the Irish American Labor Coalition in January 1992. Bowers is survived by his wife, Marcy, their two children John and Christine, and one granddaughter, Meagan. A funeral mass in his honor was celebrated Aug. 24 at the Guardian Angel Roman Catholic Church in Manhattan. SIU Executive Vice President Lands Appointment from DOT SIU Executive Vice President Augie Tellez in late July received a congratulatory letter from U.S. Secretary of Transportation Ray LaHood informing him of his appointment to the DOT’s Marine Transportation System National Advisory Council (MTSNAC). Tellez’s two-year appointment began on July 28. The council’s first public meeting is planned for later this year, though the exact date hasn’t been set. In the communication to Tellez, LaHood pointed out that the MTSNAC was reestablished in May 2010 “to provide advice and make policy recommendations to the Secretary of Transportation on transportation development issues that address impediments to the effective use of America’s overall Marine Transportation System. However, the council will pay specific attention to the expansion and development of the Nation’s Marine Highway and port system through its Marine Highway subcommittee and the Secretary’s Port Advisory Council. The MTSNAC will comprise leaders from commercial transportation firms, port and water stakeholders, labor, academia, and federal, state and local public entities.” The council likely will meet at least twice per fiscal year, and the meetings normally will be open to the public. According to the organization’s charter, “Timely notice of each meeting shall be published in the Federal Register, and the Chair may pre- SIU Exec. VP Augie Tellez scribe other types of public notice as well.” According to the DOT’s Maritime Administration, the nation’s Marine Transportation System “consists of waterways, ports, and intermodal landside connections that allow the various modes of transportation to move people and goods to, from, and on the water. The MTS includes the following: 25,000 miles of navigable channels; 238 locks at 192 locations; Great Lakes and St. Lawrence Seaway; more than 3,700 marine terminals; numerous recreational marinas; more than 174,000 miles of rail connecting all 48 contiguous States, as well as Canada and Mexico; more than 45,000 miles of interstate highway, supported by over 115,000 miles of other roadways; and more than 1,400 designated intermodal connections.” Seafarers LOG 5 �66070_SIU_LOG 8/29/2011 5:15 PM Page 6 Starlight Marine Crews Approve New Contract Seafarers employed by Starlight Marine Services have ratified a new three-year contract that calls for annual wage increases and other gains. Overwhelmingly approved by rank-and-file members, the new agreement took effect July 1. In addition to stipulating annual wage increases, the pact boosts contributions to the Seafarers Money Purchase Pension Plan (SMPPP) as well as reimbursements for work clothes and expenses associated with the costs of transportation. Starlight Marine operates a fleet of five state-ofthe-art tugs and one barge in the San Francisco Harbor. In addition to ship assist services, the company specializes in the bunkering and crude oil, fuel oil and diesel oil transportation business. The contract covers 25 SIU members. “A lot of hard work went into this contract, but it was a good negotiation and the end result is very pos- The company operates five tugs including those pictured above and below. itive for the membership,” stated SIU Assistant Vice President Nick Celona, who teamed with SIU Vice President West Coast Nick Marrone and Seafarer Bryan Wynn on the union’s bargaining team. This is the third SIU contract at Starlight. The first was an initial five-year agreement ratified in 2003, the year Starlight Marine boatmen unanimously chose SIU representation. The second was approved in 2008. Gathering to discuss the new contract are (from left) Seafarers Bryan Wynn, Stephanie Sandoval, Mike Limon, Eric Vuoso, Matt Fike and Jacob Laprado, SIU Asst. VP Nick Celona and Seafarer Jonah Petrick. AMO Agreement Extended on Lakes Following a brief work stoppage, the American Maritime Officers (AMO) and American Steamship Company (ASC) early last month agreed to extend their current contract at least through the end of the 2011 Great Lakes shipping season. Both sides expressed optimism about a successor agreement. AMO National President Tom Bethel described the union and the company as being “confident and committed to reaching an agreement prior to the beginning of the 2012 operating season – an agreement that ensures the job and benefit security of AMO members and addresses the company’s competitive needs.” David W. Foster, president of ASC, said, “We 6 are pleased that ASC and the AMO have agreed on a path forward…. It remains our goal to reach a fair and equitable long-term agreement with our licensed crew members that allows ASC to become more competitive on the Great Lakes.” The AMO was on strike (and the ASC fleet was idled) for less than a week in early August – its first work stoppage on the Lakes in 31 years. The union is an autonomous affiliate of the Seafarers International Union of North America (SIUNA). SIU members sail aboard 11 ASC vessels. Earlier this year, Seafarers approved a five-year contract covering the ASC ships through June 2016. St. Louis Agent Nabs Key Appointment Catching Up with Crowley Captain SIU St. Louis Port Agent Becky Sleeper (above) recently took the oath of office for her new appointment to the Jefferson County (Mo.) Port Authority. Her four-year term was confirmed in mid-July by County Executive Kenneth B. Waller. SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel (right) and VP Gulf Coast Dean Corgey chat with Seafarer Hector Guzman, docking master for Crowley in the port of San Juan, P.R. The photo was taken last month at the union hall in Puerto Rico. Seafarers LOG September 2011 �66070_SIU_LOG_X 8/30/2011 7:14 PM Page 7 M a r i ti m e B r i e f s SIU Officials Meet Virginia Congressman Paul Hall Center to Host ITF Maritime Women’s Conference The SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education is scheduled to host the International Transport Workers’ Federation Maritime Women Strategic, Leadership and Organizing Conference Sept. 25-30. According to the ITF, the event “aims to strengthen women’s leadership, strategy and organizing skills within the ITF and its affiliates.” (The SIU is an ITF affiliate.) The school is located in Piney Point, Md. For more information about the ITF, visit www.itfglobal.org. IMO Announces Theme for 2012 World Maritime Day The International Maritime Organization Council recently backed a proposal by IMO Secretary-General Efthimios Mitropoulos to adopt “IMO: One hundred years after the Titanic” as the World Maritime Day theme for 2012. One result of the sinking of the Titanic (in 1912), in which 1,503 people lost their lives, was the adoption two years later of the first International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (the SOLAS Convention). The 1914 version of the Convention was gradually superseded by amended versions; SOLAS 1974 is still in force today, itself amended and updated many times. Mitropoulos said that among other potential benefits, the theme would provide an opportunity to take stock of improvements in maritime safety during the 100 years since the sinking of the Titanic; pay tribute to the memory of those who lost their lives in the freezing waters of the North Atlantic on that fatal night of April 14, 1912; examine whether the lessons drawn from that tragedy have been fully learned; examine the safety record of shipping and identify those areas that have contributed the most to its improvement over the years; and examine which areas, within the overall spectrum of maritime safety, should be given top consideration in the years to come. Reminder: Forms Available for SHBP Dependent Coverage The Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan reminds members that, as previously reported, effective Jan. 1, 2011, the SHBP began offering coverage to eligible participants’ children up to age 26, regardless of whether the child is in school, as long as the child does not have access to health insurance through their employer. A letter and affidavit form was mailed to eligible participants in October 2010. The letter and form also may be downloaded from the SIU web site, www.seafarers.org, under the “Member Benefits” section. There is no cost to enroll. Seafarers are asked to note that dependent children who were previously enrolled for SHBP coverage based on being college students must now be enrolled by completing the affidavit. Coverage for all eligible children will commence as of the first of the month following the Plan’s receipt of a completed form. Maritime Observance, Symposium Slated for Sept. 29 in Port Arthur The Apostleship of the Sea of the United States has announced that the Port Arthur (Texas) International Seafarer Center will host a maritime observance and symposium Sept. 29, which is World Maritime Day. The Maritime Trades Department, AFL-CIO, is one of several organizations sponsoring the event. The day’s agenda features numerous guest speakers and topics including the Save Our Seafarers anti-piracy campaign. The speakers will offer perspectives from throughout the maritime industry concerning piracy. (The theme of this year’s World Maritime Day is “Piracy: Orchestrating the Response.”) For more information, call the Apostleship of the Sea in Port Arthur at (409) 9858010. Agency Announces Meetings to Receive STCW Comments The U.S. Coast Guard in early August announced a series of meetings to receive comments on the agency’s proposal for implementation of the latest amendments to the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW). The August meetings were slated for Miami (Aug. 22), New Orleans (Aug. 24) and Seattle (Aug. 26); the September meeting is scheduled for Sept. 7 in Washington, D.C. Written comments may be submitted on or before Sept. 30. Additional information is available in the Aug. 2 Federal Register. SIU VP Government Services Kermett Mangram (right) and Norfolk Port Agent Georg Kenny (left) discuss maritime issues with U.S. Rep. Bobby Scott (D-Va.) during the Virginia AFL-CIO Convention in Williamsburg, in early August. U.S. Merchant Marine’s Valiant History, Modern Value Highlighted at Ceremony The U.S. Merchant Marine has been vital to America’s national and economic security since the country’s origins – and remains so today. That was a key part of the message delivered by U.S. Maritime Administrator David Matsuda July 28 during a stamp-unveiling ceremony at the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy in King’s Point, N.Y. The occasion marked the official launch of four new postage stamps paying tribute to the U.S. Merchant Marine. “Today you have heard about the integral role that America’s Merchant Marine has played in our nation’s unfolding history,” Matsuda remarked. “From America’s infancy – when a fleet of American civilian mariners fought and defeated British forces in a naval skirmish near Machias, Maine – to the California Gold Rush, when the legendary clipper ships set speed records in pursuit of treasure; to World War II, when the merchant marine delivered nearly 270 billion tons of cargo to the frontlines and suffered some of the war effort’s highest casualty rates; to one of the largest sealifts from American soil, on September 11, just 25 miles from here, when seafarers sailed toward danger in lower Manhattan to help transport 130,000 men and women to safety.” He continued, “While these stamps depict the ships of the merchant marine, it is the men and women who sail, and the ones who built these ships, who leave their mark on our prosperity, our liberty and our way of life…. While we honor our past, we must not forget the lessons we have learned that so many have sacrificed for: having ships and trained crews ready to carry the nation’s cargo is critical to our security and our economy. Economically, America is basically an island. So, our founders learned long ago that if we want to remain a trading nation, get our exports to market, and access other trading nations around the world, we cannot be subject entirely to another country’s flag fleet.” Such considerations extend beyond commercial cargo, the administrator added. “We’ve learned from every military conflict in the last century that while we can project America’s military power anywhere in the world, we need a strong merchant marine to sustain any war effort,” he explained. “This is true for our ability to provide humanitarian assistance as well.” As previously reported, the four “forever” stamps depict vessel types spanning U.S. history. They show (respectively) a clipper ship modeled after one from the mid-1800s, an auxiliary steamship, a World War II Liberty ship, and a containership based on Seafarers-contracted Matson Line’s R.J. Pfeiffer. Illustrator Dennis Lyall created the stamps under the art direction of Phil Jordan. Matsuda concluded by reinforcing the ongoing need to maintain a strong U.S.-flag fleet and a pool of reliable, well-trained U.S. citizen seafarers. “Today, the maritime industry continues to be an integral part of America’s economy and national security,” he stated. “In times of peace, [U.S. mariners] will be the backbone that supports our nation’s economy, shipping American goods to foreign shores and moving other products within our borders. In times of conflict, they will be called upon to bring supplies and support services directly to the front lines. As I mentioned earlier, without their service, our military could not succeed. And in times of natural disaster, they will be among our first responders, bringing relief and expertise to those in need, across our nation and across the globe. “So, as the American people enjoy these gorgeous postage stamps honoring our maritime roots, I hope that they will pause to consider the vital role our seafarers and maritime workers continue to play keeping America safe and strong.” Mariner Publishes Book Recalling Diving Exploits Former Seafarer and current MEBA member H.C. Solomon has written a book about his adventures in and around locales including Hong Kong, Mexico, the U.S. Virgin Islands and elsewhere. “The 1994 Explore Diving Calendar” is a 68-page paperback featuring a blend of text and color photos taken at and beneath the sea as well as ashore. Solomon noted, “Growing up in New York, I had many dreams of grand adventures. I read the books of Joshua Slocum about sailing alone around the world. Jack London was another favorite, along with Joseph Conrad and Rudyard Kipling. I dreamt of cruising Lake Victoria and Mt. Kilimanjaro, Rio de Janeiro, with [Copacabana] Beach and carnival, and Barcelona. I read about the maroons of Jamaica and the runaway slaves during the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries who roamed the countryside harassing the British until the abolition of the slave trade in 1807. A lot of these dreams have become reality, and this book is a record of some of the places I visited. Hope you enjoy it.” The book is available online through: www.borders.com, www.rosedogbookstore.com and www.amazon.com. September 2011 Four new “forever” stamps pay tribute to the nation’s maritime heritage. (Images Copyright© USPS, reprinted with permission) Seafarers LOG 7 �66070_SIU_LOG_X 8/30/2011 7:16 PM Page 8 ITF Inspector: ‘I’m Proud to be an American’ The morning after formally being sworn in as an American citizen Aug. 17 in Houston, Shwe Aung summed up his feelings in one word: “Fantastic!” Aung is an International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF) inspector for the SIU. If it sounds like a cliché to say he came a long way in his journey to U.S. citizenship, consider his circumstances in the year 2000. A native of Burma, Aung was in his late twenties and sailing aboard a ship that sank in Venezuela. He survived the ordeal, but his credentials and other paperwork were lost. His only option for securing a new passport involved returning to Burma, where he would have been jailed because of pro-union activities. After a complicated sequence that included long stays in Venezuela and Brazil, Aung, with the ITF’s backing, found his way to the U.S. in December 2001. Aung didn’t exactly begin living the American dream upon his arrival. He was detained by the Immigration and Naturalization Service, but – with key assistance from the SIU, the ITF and U.S. Rep. Gene Green’s office – was granted asylum in 2002. Since then, Aung has been an effective ITF inspector (his honors include recognition from the Asian Pacific American Labor Alliance) who embraces his chance to assist fellow mariners. “I was a foreign crew member, and I know what it’s like to not get paid and to need the ITF’s help,” he explained. “Now, I’m the one helping. The cycle is complete.” Congressman Green (D-Texas), an ally from Shwe’s earliest days in America, presented his citizenship certificate at last month’s ceremony, which took place at a local education center. SIU Vice President Gulf Coast Dean Corgey was among Aung’s other supporters in attendance. Corgey noted that Aung had the honor of taking the citizenship oath not only for himself but also as a representative of the many other immigrants being naturalized that day. (For practical reasons, one person – Aung – was chosen to stand on behalf of everyone.) “I think that’s a real tribute to his reputation, the great work that he’s done, and his standing in the community,” Corgey said. “We’re proud that he was selected and we’re proud to be a part of Shwe’s successful story and his journey to citizenship. He’s a great guy, and his family was so happy. This is what America is all about.” Reflecting on the last nine years, Aung emphasized his gratitude to a host of backers including Rep. Green, Aung (standing at left) takes the citizenship oath not only for himself but as a representative of other immigrants. Feathered Ferry Passenger Unexpected but Welcome Seafarers working aboard NY Waterway’s Thomas Jefferson have found themselves sailing alongside an unusual guest lately, and his presence has drawn a fair amount of attention to the members. “Tony,” like many others in the New York City metropolitan area, commutes to and from Manhattan daily. However, Tony does it a bit differently than most members of his species. Instead of flying, Tony the Pigeon takes the ferry. Tony’s longtime devotion to the ferry has caused something of a sensation for commuters, the media, and especially the SIU members who’ve sailed with the bird every day for the last three years. “I’ve been working this job for 23 years and I’ve never seen anything like this,” senior deckhand and SIU member George Schumpp recently told a reporter. “Three years ago, this pigeon shows up and starts going through the cabin and eating crumbs. Next thing you know, he’s here every day at the exact same time. And he does more work cleaning than my partner.” News articles in various local papers, passenger-made videos, and even a Facebook page have all been devoted to Tony the Pigeon. Workers aboard the Thomas Jefferson have made the bird an unofficial mascot of the vessel. According to the deckhands and the New York Daily News, every day for the past three years, Tony comes aboard the ship every morning at Pier 79 in Manhattan and searches for food dropped by passengers. When the ship arrives in New Jersey, he exits briefly and then gets back on. Finally, after the ship has made its rounds, he simply walks off the boat and continues his day. When the evening rush hour starts, Tony’s back on deck and repeating the same trip all over again. Passengers and workers alike have gotten a kick out of the bird’s antics, which have altered the outlooks of many New Yorkers who are usually pigeon-adverse, to put it mildly. “I’ve been a New Yorker my whole life and we’re not big fans of pigeons, but Tony has changed the way I think,” said Schumpp. 8 Seafarers LOG Shwe Aung (second from left) thanked many people for supporting him, including his son, Ryan Tun Aung (getting a lift from Dad); his wife, Nyunt Nyunt Wai (center); U.S. Rep. Gene Green (D-Texas) (second from right); and SIU VP Gulf Coast Dean Corgey (right). Corgey, SIU President Michael Sacco and SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel, who also has been an ITF official for many years. Aung further noted the invaluable support of ITF officials David Cockroft, Steve Cotton, Anna Llewellyn and Antonio Fritz, local contacts Stefani Nguyen and Jimmy McAuley, shipmates from the MV Global Mariner, his family and others. “There are so many people who’ve helped me along the way,” Aung stated. “I’m so proud to be in the SIU family and to also be part of the ITF. When I got here, the SIU took me in. Dean and Jimbo ( SIU Assistant Vice President Jim McGee) came to see me on a ship around midnight. They didn’t even know me. I had lost my hope, but they worked with me…. Without the SIU, I wouldn’t be here.” Heindel, who serves as chairman of the ITF Seafarers’ Section, noted, “It’s inspirational to see that Shwe has made a good life for himself in the U.S. Meeting this young man in Brazil in late 2001 and hearing that Brazil was going to deport him back to Burma to face prison just for standing up for himself and fellow crew – something that we daily take for granted – was just too much not to assist him. I am proud that we, with the help of Representative Green, were able to assist Shwe in making his way to the States and being there when he landed. I’m sure over the years it has not been easy for him to be away from his family in Burma, but his is a great American story; he has assimilated into our culture and now started a family of his own. Congratulations, Shwe!” Aung concluded, “I’m proud to be an American. It’s really great.” Indy-Connie Reunion Set for Oct. 28-Nov. 1 Former crew members from the American Hawaii Cruises vessels SS Independence and SS Constitution are organizing a reunion that’s scheduled to take place Oct. 28-Nov. 1 at the Royal Kona Resort in Kailua-Kona, Hawaii. As of midAugust, more than 120 people indicated they plan to attend, while nearly 200 more were considering it. Details are available on a Facebook page specifically set up for the reunion. Just go to Facebook and search for AHC Reunion October 2011. Pictured in the photo below are crew members aboard the Independence in 1986 (courtesy of Recertified Steward Judi Chester); at right, the Constitution sails in 1983. September 2011 �66070_SIU_LOG 8/29/2011 5:15 PM Page 9 Checking one of the life rafts on board the Pride of America are Bosun Rafael Lanila and deck gang members Gary Hunt, Joe Whitmore, Dominador Diaz, Justin Pierce and Rolando Dinong. AB Nestor Rapusas (right) receives his B-seniority full book and a congratulatory handshake from Port Agent Hazel Galbiso. Port Agent Hazel Galbiso (left) congratulates AB Ricardo Salazar for receiving his Aseniority full book. With Seafarers in Honolulu These recent photos were taken at the SIU hall in Honolulu, Hawaii, and aboard the nearby cruise ship Pride of America First Voyage to Sea – World War II AB Marie Acosta Editor’s note: Retiree Vincent Patterson sailed with the SIU from June 1942 to July 1951. He sent this story to the LOG in order to share recollections of some his earliest days at sea. Brother Patterson made his first trip as a messman and then switched to the engine department. He sailed throughout World War II, and afterward sailed on Alcoa and Delta passenger liners. He also sailed in the Korean War before coming ashore. War broke out between the United States and Japan on December 7, 1941. I was 15 years old and lived in the port city of New Orleans, Louisiana. As much as I wanted to fight for my country, I knew that the armed forces would not accept me, because I was too young. In January of 1942, I turned 16 and asked my parents to sign for me to join the United States Navy. From a younger age, maybe 10 or 12, I had always wanted to be a sailor, as was my grandfather. When my parents turned me down for the Navy, I found the next way to become a sailor. At 16 my parents signed for me to join the United States Merchant Marine. I told them it would not be as dangerous. (Little did I know.) I did not go to a maritime school as most of the young recruits did. I passed my Coast Guard physical and received my seaman’s papers in June of 1942. In July I was assigned to a new Liberty ship, the S.S. Mirabeau B. Lamar in Houston, Texas. The ship was still in the yard, and we were the first to crew it. We left Houston and sailed for New Orleans to load cargo. A day before we arrived at Southwest Pass, the troop ship Robert E. Lee was torpedoed and sunk by a German submarine, July 30, 1942. There were a few survivors, and she went under the waves in 15 minutes. As we approached the Southwest Pass at the mouth of the Mississippi River, two of our destroyer escorts began dropping depth charges off our port bow. They were picking up sonar soundings from a submarine that was stalking our ship. (When underwater radio signals are sent and they September 2011 AB Jaroslav Dvorak The SIU-crewed Pride of America is the only U.S.-flag deep sea cruise ship. strike an object, the signals will bounce back.) Both escorts gradually worked their way – and the submarine’s – into the shallow water of the coastline and the Louisiana marshes. I was on deck watching all that was happening. Being a kid of 16, this was extremely exciting stuff; I didn’t think about the danger or the horror that was being played out on the submarine. The submarine would not or could not surface. A twin-engine plane from Alvin Callender Airfield at Belle Chase, Louisiana, helped with the search. The plane flew over a spot near the two destroyer escorts and dropped a floating smoke flare and flew off. In a minute or two it returned and dropped a large bomb. This seemed to blow the bottom out of the Gulf of Mexico with a tall geyser of mud, debris and water and, I assumed, parts of the submarine. We were now headed up the Mississippi River and stopped at “pilot town,” a small distance up from the mouth of the river. Pilot town consisted of a couple of houses built on stilts above the marsh, where the pilots stay between bringing ships up and down the river. A pilot climbed aboard our ship, and we headed up river about 90 miles to New Orleans. Upon reaching the city, our steering gear went haywire and we are unable to steer the ship. It takes a long time to stop a ship making headway, even going up river against the current. Both anchors were dropped, and with the engine going full astern we still plowed into the dock. We hit and crunched the dock between two ships. One was a British ship loaded with munitions. Luckily for us and the city of New Orleans, we did not blow up the town. I got to visit with my family, which also was fortunate, because I suspected we would be on a long voyage. After several of weeks loading cargo, we sailed for the Gulf of Mexico. We joined with a convoy of ships; our convoy was going through the Caribbean Sea and headed for the island of Trinidad. We heard depth charges, but no ships were sunk. We took shore leave in Trinidad and this was the first time I had seen people sleeping and living on the streets. Our stay was short, but I got to see a small portion of Trinidad and visit the USO Club. We danced in a conga line but had to leave the pretty girls on shore. It was time to weigh anchor and go to war; we were on our way to Cape Town, South Africa. We had no destroyer escorts to protect us, so we were on our own. We had four 20-MM guns and one three-inch gun forward. On our stern we had an old five-inch gun left over from World War I. This we loaded with powder bags with a ramrod and a projectile. There were German “raiders” disguised as merchant ships that carry many more and larger guns than we do. German submarines were also along our route. We were lucky, arriving at Cape Town without incident. Another ship that left Trinidad with us, the West Chetac, had not arrived; it was way overdue. Cape Town is a beautiful city, located below Table Mountain on the southern tip of Africa. We visited some of the sights and outlying villages, and ate at a café on the mountain. The people were friendly. Large fellows of the Zulu Tribe unloaded our ship. Some had fancy, round, painted spools in their ears. Many had rods through the bottom parts of their noses and scar markings on their faces. The bottoms of their bare feet looked two inches thick. With part of our cargo unloaded, we were on our way to Port Elizabeth, located on the east coast of South Africa. Our shore leave there was short, but we managed to see some of the city. Our next scheduled stop was Durban, South Africa, but we got lost at sea. We spent three or more days by dead reckoning. We were looking for the entrance to the harbor at Durban, but the weather was very bad and we could not take a sighting with our sextants. All the while, we were mindful of the fact that Japanese submarines patrol these waters. The weather finally cleared and we were not too far off course. We arrived at Durban and unloaded for four days. We were then on our way up through the south Atlantic Ocean to Suriname, located in the northeastern part of South America. Our ship was 100 miles from the South American shore and night was Tending the shuttle at the Kona Pier are AB Bill Carney and OS Peter Hamm. falling when we were attacked by a submarine. The Navy gun crew gave a good account of themselves and drove the submarine off. The submarine may have fired a torpedo at us, but since it was night we didn’t know. We arrived the next morning at Paramaribo in Suriname and continued up river to Paranam to load bauxite. Our next stop was Trinidad to top off the cargo holds with additional bauxite. The ship was now on the last leg of the journey and we dropped anchor in sight of the Statue of Liberty in New York Harbor, just in time for a white Christmas, 1942. History later proved that the first submarine in this story was the German U172, which escaped our destroyers on that August morning. But, the U-172 eventually was sunk on Dec. 12, 1943, west of the Canary Islands by USS Clemson, USS Dupont, USS Badger and the USS Ingram. There were no survivors. The troop ship Robert E. Lee was torpedoed and sunk by the German submarine U-166 on July 30, 1942. Ten crew members and 15 passengers were lost, including some who were from other torpedoed merchant ships. As mentioned, the Robert E. Lee sank in 15 minutes. The U-166 was sunk on the same day by the destroyer escort PC-566. The U-166 was sunk by a depth charge blowing her bow off, and there were no survivors. The captain of the U-166 was HansGunther Kuhlmann, 28-year-old son of a wealthy German family. The U-166 and the Robert E. Lee lie about 100 yards apart in the Gulf of Mexico, both in 5,000 feet of water about 25 miles southeast of the entrance to the Mississippi River. The ship that left Trinidad with us, the SS West Chetac, did not make it. Many of our crew had friends on board. The West Chetac was sunk shortly after leaving Trinidad on September 24, 1942 by submarine U-175. The ship sank in two minutes; 22 crew members and nine Navy Armed Guard personnel were lost, including the captain. The U-175 was sunk southwest of Ireland on April 17, 1943 by U.S. Coast Guard cutter Spencer. There were 41 survivors. Seafarers LOG 9 �66070_SIU_LOG 8/29/2011 5:15 PM Page 10 PRESENTATION IN PINEY POINT – Upgrader Leonard Gregg (right) receives his Bbook during the August membership meeting in Piney Point, Md. Gregg, who sails as an AB, joined the union in 2004. Swearing him in is Port Agent Pat Vandegrift. STANDING UP FOR SOCIAL SECURITY – Seafarers showed their support for protecting Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid during a July 25 rally in the Baltimore suburb of Woodlawn, Md. Approximately 300 supporters participated in the demonstration, sponsored by the Maryland-D.C. AFL-CIO and conducted at the national headquarters of the Social Security Administration. Featured speakers included Maryland-D.C. AFL-CIO President Fred Mason and American Federation of Government Employees President John Gage. The SIU contingent (group photo) included Baltimore Port Agent Elizabeth Brown (front row, far right) and Piney Point Port Agent Pat Vandegrift (second row, far left). At Sea And Ashore With the SIU BACKING UNION FAA WORKERS – Houston- area Seafarers turned out to support fellow trade unionists who were affected by the recent Federal Aviation Administration shutdown. During an August 4 rally at George Bush Intercontinental Airport, SIU VP Gulf Coast Dean Corgey, U.S. Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee (DTexas) and others voiced support for airport workers from the ALPA, Flight Attendants, Teamsters, Machinists, AFGE and Building and Construction Trades unions who suffered as a result of the shutdown. (An agreement was reached later that same day that led to the FAA resuming operations.) In addition to the SIU, the rally also featured numerous other unions affiliated with the Harris County AFLCIO and the West Gulf Ports Council of the Maritime Trades Department. Pictured from left to right in the group photo are AB Joseph Merriweather, Chief Cook John Noel, Rep. Lee, Corgey, QMED Jerome Dooms, SIU Houston Safety Director Brian Kinard and SIU ITF Inspector Shwe Aung. Standing left to right (front row) in the other photo are Corgey, Rep. Lee and Mario Diaz, director of aviation for the Houston Airport System. TRULY IMPECCABLE CREW – This recent snapshot from the USNS Impeccable includes three members of the galley gang and Medical Department Representative/RN Brandon Maeda (left), who formerly sailed as a recertified steward. Standing left to right are Maeda, Chief Cook Jose David, Chief Steward Edward Villanda and SA Ahmed Omar. “This is a really good bunch of guys and they feed over 50 people per voyage,” Maeda wrote, adding that he appreciates the energy required for such a task. UNION OATH IN HOUSTON – In early August, SA Gladiz David (left) happily gets her B-book at the SIU hall in Houston. Her most recent ship was the Noble Star. Administering the union oath is Port Agent Mike Russo. REMEMBERING BROTHER EXPOSITO – WELCOME ASHORE – At the hall in Tacoma, Wash., Port Agent Joe Vincenzo (right) congratulates retiree George Gauggel and presents him with a pension check. Gauggel sailed in both the steward and deck departments at various times during his 20-year career with the SIU. 10 Seafarers LOG On July 28, in accordance with his wishes and those of his family, the cremains of SIU retiree Jose Exposito were committed at sea from aboard the Maersk Wyoming. Vessel Master Kevin Coulombe reported that the memorial ceremony took place on the Atlantic Ocean at position L 41-22.9 N/Lo 036 24.7. September 2011 �66070_SIU_LOG 8/29/2011 5:15 PM Page 11 Byrd Completes Historic Visit to Vietnam Port The Seafarers-crewed, U.S. Military Sealift Command dry cargo/ammunition ship USNS Richard E. Byrd in late August left Cam Ranh Bay in southern Vietnam, marking the end of an historic visit – the first by a U.S. Navy ship to the port in nearly four decades. Manned in the unlicensed slots by members of the SIU Government Services Division, the Byrd spent seven days at Cam Ranh Shipyard for routine maintenance and repairs that included underwater hull cleaning, polishing of the ship’s propeller, repairing shipboard piping, and overhaul of the saltwater cooling system that keeps the ship’s engines cool and runs the air conditioning. The vessel left port Aug. 24. Cam Ranh Bay is 180 miles north of Ho Chi Minh City, formerly called Saigon. From 1965 to 1973, Cam Ranh Bay was one of the largest in-country U.S. military facilities during the Vietnam War. MSC Ship Support Unit Singapore routinely contracts shipyards throughout Southeast Asia to conduct maintenance and repairs on the command’s Combat Logistics Force ships, according to the agency. “The Navy saves both time and money by using multiple commercial shipyards throughout the region, reducing transit times to more distant shipyards, and thereby also reducing the amount of time these ships are off-mission,” MSC said in a recent news release. In addition, these ship visits foster positive relations between the U.S. and Vietnam. (The U.S. normalized diplomatic relations with Vietnam in 1995.) Cam Ranh Bay is a deep-water and sheltered harbor which can easily accommodate larger naval vessels with deep drafts. The Byrd, part of the Navy’s TAKE class, measures more than 680 feet in length and displaces more than 41,000 tons. The Byrd’s repairs in Vietnam are the third such repairs on MSC vessels in that country over the last two years. The Seafarers-crewed rescue and salvage ship USNS Safeguard completed repairs at Saigon Shipmarin Shipyard near Ho Chi Minh City in September 2009. Cam Ranh Shipyard performed maintenance on the Byrd in March of last year, but the work was performed at Van Phong Bay, located about 80 miles north of Cam Ranh Bay. The more recent work was completed Taking the Oath in Oakland The USNS Richard E. Byrd sits at anchor in the port of Cam Ranh Bay, Vietnam, Aug. 18 while undergoing routine maintenance. (U.S. Navy photo by Anh Ho) Aug. 22 and the Byrd got underway two days later to return to normal duties as one of U.S. 7th Fleet’s primary supply vessels operating in the Western Pacific. The vessel is one of 11 Seafarers-crewed Notice/Reminder dry cargo/ammunition ships that operate worldwide delivering ammunition, provisions, stores, spare parts, potable water and petroleum products to U.S. Navy ships at sea. SHBP Enrollment-Beneficiary Cards The Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan (SHBP) regularly reminds Seafarers about the vital importance of completing and submitting a new SHBP EnrollmentBeneficiary Card whenever a member has a change in his or her family status – such as marriage, divorce, birth of a child, death of a family member, or change in beneficiary. This form enables the Plan to process the member’s Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan benefits correctly and expeditiously. Having an updated card on file is especially important in the event of a member’s death. Death benefits for eligible participants are payable to the beneficiary listed on the most recent beneficiary card on file with the Plan. If a member’s beneficiary has predeceased the member, or if the member does not name a beneficiary, a maximum amount of $1,000 may be payable to the member’s estate. Also, in order for the member’s beneficiary to claim the full amount of the death benefit, the beneficiary must be a close relative. “Close relative” is defined by the Plan as follows: Spouse Child Grandchild Grandfather Grandmother Stepchild Mother Father Stepmother Stepfather Half-sister Half-brother Brother Sister Stepsister Stepbrother Nephew* Niece* (*Niece and nephew are defined as the children of the brother or sister of a deceased employee.) During the August membership meeting in Oakland, Calif., AB Chris Malbas (left) receives his full book and takes the union oath. He is sworn in by SIU VP West Coast Nick Marrone (center) as Safety Director Kathy Chester looks on. Attention Seafarers Keep Old Glory Afloat ... If the beneficiary named by a member is not a relative on this list, the maximum amount he or she can receive as a death benefit is $1,000. This could greatly reduce any amount payable under the Plan’s Graduated Death Benefit rules. Please check the new member portal on the SIU website (www.seafarers.org) to view the beneficiary information that we have on file to see if it is up-to-date. If the information is outdated, members are urged to submit a current SHBP EnrollmentBeneficiary Card as soon as possible. Those cards are available at the union halls. Also, members may call 1-800-252-4674 and request that a card be mailed to them. Donate To SPAD (Seafarers Political Action Donation) September 2011 Seafarers LOG 11 �66070_SIU_LOG_X 8/30/2011 7:21 PM Page 12 T he Por Daily Sc Bosun Luis Ramirez, AB Jorge Soler El Yunque Cargo is loaded onto the El Yunque. Pictured at the hall (foreground, from left) are GUDE Darius Edwards, GUDE David McCarthon, SA Lawa Dowdell and AB Ogden Lee. Members check out the job board. 12 Seafarers LOG The port of Jacksonville, Fla., normally features a number of SIU-contracted ships loading and unloading various cargoes. That was the case earlier this summer when the photos on these two pages were taken. Likewise, the SIU hall on Belfort Road typically remains busy. Whether members are throwing in for a job, registering, or just spending time with fellow Seafarers, the hall has been a friendly gathering point The Horizon Producer is pictured in Jacksonville, Fla., on July 19 With college football season approaching, AB Tavell Love (left) an spirit by testing their skills in a popular gridiron video game. September 2011 �66070_SIU_LOG_X 8/30/2011 7:21 PM Page 13 o r t o f J A CK S O NV I L L E SA John Fitzgerald, Chief Cook Adalberto Colon Rosa, Steward/Baker Allen Van Buren El Yunque ily Scenes From In And Around rge Soler sa unloading sume taken. for a ellow ring point Recertified Bosun John Wilson is congratulated on his retirement by Karen Shuford, secretary at the hall. Wilson started sailing in 1968. His first ship was the Seatrain Georgia. since its opening in November 2009. SIU-contracted companies whose vessels call on Jacksonville include American Roll-On/Roll-Off Carrier, Crowley Maritime Corp., Horizon Lines, Liberty Maritime, Maersk Line Limited, Sea Star and others. They carry commercial and military cargoes – most frequently aboard RO/ROs, but also sometimes aboard containerships and tankers Asst. VP Archie Ware (center) is pictured with Safety Director Ashley Nelson (right) and Patrolman Brian Guiry. ove (left) and AB Randy Cash get into the eo game. September 2011 The Liberty Promise is one of many SIU-crewed roll-on/roll-off vessels that call on the port. Seafarers LOG 13 �66070_SIU_LOG 14 8/29/2011 5:17 PM Seafarers LOG Page 14 September 2011 �66070_SIU_LOG 8/29/2011 7:41 PM Page 15 Coast Guard, National Maritime Center Release New Customer Survey The U.S Coast Guard, in conjunction with its National Maritime Center (NMC), has issued its new online Mariner Credentialing Program Customer Satisfaction Survey. Released Aug. 11, the new assessment vehicle has been under development for the past several years. It replaces a previous edition which customers had utilized to provide feedback. Agency officials say the new survey should further enhance customer service to the nation’s merchant mariners. The NMC is committed to providing mariners with exceptional service, according to Capt. Anthony Lloyd, commanding officer, U.S. Coast Guard National Maritime Center. For this reason, mariners’ opinions regarding their personal experiences with the NMC are vitally important, he said. Feedback provided through the survey will guide improvements to the products and services provided by the NMC. Therefore, mariner and stakeholder involvement in the feedback arena is critical, according to Lloyd. Future improvements depend on it. Currently, mariners and stakeholders have two ways to access the new survey: A link to access the survey automatically will be sent to mariners who provided email addresses as part of their application information for Merchant Mariner Credentials. This link will be sent to mariners 10 days following the issuing of their credentials. Another access link prominently is displayed on the NMC Website (www.uscg.mil/nmc) for those mariners – and others – who did not provide email addresses as part of the information contained in their respective applications. Once accessed, the 12-question survey will provide mariners with an anonymous method to provide feedback about the NMC’s credentialing process and their customer service experience. The entire process should take less than seven minutes to complete. Those who require assistance or desire further information may contact the NMC by email at IASKNMC@uscg.mil or by phone at 1-888-427-5662. P e r so n al Kathy Dehlbom would like people who sailed with Robert Dehlbom in the engine department to contact her. Brother Dehlbom passed away February 2011. She may be reached at (509) 935-6217 or (509) 675-1590. October & November 2011 Membership Meetings Piney Point................................Monday: October 3, November 7 Algonac ....................Friday: October 7, *Monday: November 14 Baltimore...............................Thursday: October 6, November 10 Guam...................................Thursday: October 20, November 24 Honolulu ...................................Friday: October 14, Noverber 18 Houston..............**Tuesday: October 11, Monday: November 14 Jacksonville...........................Thursday: October 6, November 10 Joliet....................................Thursday: October 13, November 17 Mobile..............................Wednesday: October 12, November 16 New Orleans..............................Tuesday: October 11, November 15 New York..................................Tuesday: October 4, November 8 Norfolk.................................Thursday: October 6, November 10 Oakland ...............................Thursday: October 13, November 17 Philadelphia.........................Wednesday: October 5, November 9 Port Everglades ...................Thursday: October 13, November 17 San Juan................................Thursday: October 6, November 10 St. Louis .................................Friday: October 14, November 18 Tacoma....................................Friday: October 21, November 25 Wilmington............................... Monday: October 17, November 21 * Algonac change created by Veterans Day holiday ** Houston change created by Columbus Day holiday Each port’s meeting starts at 10:30 a.m. September 2011 D i s p a t ch e r s ’ R e p o r t f o r D e e p S e a July 16, 2011 - August 15, 2011 Port Total Registered All Groups A B C 25 0 9 17 1 2 59 35 7 6 13 36 16 27 8 0 12 32 2 31 338 20 3 2 10 5 2 15 30 8 9 7 21 22 10 7 2 3 23 5 19 223 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS 10 0 2 14 0 7 16 18 6 5 6 16 9 12 4 1 4 15 2 9 156 2 0 5 4 2 2 11 26 6 2 2 13 18 6 3 3 3 5 2 11 126 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS 3 0 5 9 2 7 13 32 1 8 6 25 11 22 2 1 2 15 0 27 191 4 0 1 7 2 1 5 3 3 3 1 5 5 4 0 2 0 2 1 3 52 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS 6 0 0 0 0 3 2 2 1 0 1 5 1 2 0 0 1 5 0 3 32 19 1 3 10 3 6 14 17 2 6 4 29 19 12 2 19 2 13 0 15 196 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS GRAND TOTAL: 717 597 Total Shipped All Groups A B Deck Department 3 28 18 0 0 0 1 2 2 1 17 8 0 3 3 0 1 1 2 34 10 0 30 20 2 7 8 0 9 4 0 12 5 4 31 10 5 12 17 1 18 7 0 3 3 0 0 1 2 4 4 2 25 10 0 0 1 1 28 11 24 264 143 Engine Department 1 9 4 0 0 0 0 2 4 0 4 3 0 1 0 2 2 2 0 11 5 0 15 14 0 4 4 0 3 0 2 4 0 1 16 5 1 12 11 0 6 4 0 4 0 0 1 1 0 2 4 0 12 7 0 0 0 3 6 9 10 114 77 Steward Department 0 4 4 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 9 3 0 0 1 1 8 0 1 18 8 0 14 4 1 1 4 0 3 1 0 5 0 0 15 7 0 3 10 0 14 3 0 2 2 0 2 2 0 1 0 0 14 4 0 0 2 0 17 4 4 130 60 Entry Department 18 2 12 0 0 0 1 0 0 3 0 10 0 0 0 2 2 6 4 1 10 6 2 14 3 0 3 1 0 3 3 1 4 7 4 24 17 0 14 7 0 8 1 0 1 21 0 20 0 1 0 2 4 9 0 0 1 6 2 7 102 19 146 140 527 426 C 3 0 0 1 0 0 1 2 2 1 0 1 2 0 0 0 0 3 0 1 17 Trip Reliefs 5 0 1 8 0 0 20 11 0 4 8 14 11 11 2 0 2 19 0 16 132 Registered on Beach All Groups A B C 31 0 13 23 2 8 93 60 6 15 20 82 27 54 14 1 18 68 4 43 582 21 4 4 13 5 4 25 54 3 11 11 39 33 23 10 2 6 37 5 35 345 0 1 0 0 0 1 5 3 0 2 2 6 6 1 0 0 2 2 0 6 37 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 1 0 0 0 0 0 3 6 0 0 2 2 0 1 5 10 0 1 2 7 4 7 2 1 4 10 1 5 64 11 0 5 19 3 14 33 27 3 14 10 24 12 20 1 1 7 30 4 16 254 3 1 7 10 2 7 25 37 4 4 4 17 30 18 7 4 8 13 2 23 226 1 0 0 0 1 2 2 0 1 0 2 4 1 1 0 0 0 1 0 3 19 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 1 3 0 0 0 2 0 1 11 5 0 0 4 9 3 11 3 2 0 8 0 6 65 3 0 7 15 2 15 23 36 1 11 7 35 17 31 7 4 5 29 2 45 295 2 0 2 11 3 2 10 6 1 2 4 6 13 7 0 4 1 4 1 4 83 0 0 0 1 0 1 1 1 1 0 2 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 1 9 11 0 0 0 0 4 2 6 3 0 0 0 4 4 0 19 0 2 0 1 56 1 0 0 1 0 0 5 1 0 2 2 2 3 1 1 0 0 4 0 1 24 8 0 1 1 0 4 3 4 1 0 1 10 1 5 0 0 1 5 0 10 55 22 2 5 14 2 11 31 38 0 6 7 60 28 30 4 5 3 16 1 26 311 29 2 5 10 0 6 8 19 0 1 6 16 36 14 1 3 4 10 0 16 186 82 285 1,186 965 251 Seafarers LOG 15 �66070_SIU_LOG 8/29/2011 6:29 PM Page 16 Inq uiring Seaf are r S ea f a r e r s I n t e r n a t i o n a l U n i o n D i r e c t or y Michael Sacco, President Augustin Tellez, Executive Vice President David Heindel, Secretary-Treasurer George Tricker, Vice President Contracts Tom Orzechowski, Vice President Lakes and Inland Waters Dean Corgey, Vice President Gulf Coast Nicholas J. Marrone, Vice President West Coast Joseph T. Soresi, Vice President Atlantic Coast Kermett Mangram, Vice President Government Services HEADQUARTERS 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746 (301) 899-0675 ALGONAC 520 St. Clair River Dr., Algonac, MI 48001 (810) 794-4988 ANCHORAGE 721 Sesame St., #1C, Anchorage, AK 99503 (907) 561-4988 BALTIMORE 2315 Essex St., Baltimore, MD 21224 (410) 327-4900 GUAM P.O. Box 3328, Hagatna, Guam 96932 Cliffline Office Ctr. Bldg., Suite 103B 422 West O’Brien Dr., Hagatna, Guam 96910 (671) 477-1350 HONOLULU 606 Kalihi St., Honolulu, HI 96819 (808) 845-5222 HOUSTON 1221 Pierce St., Houston, TX 77002 (713) 659-5152 JACKSONVILLE 5100 Belfort Rd., Jacksonville, FL 32256 (904) 281-2622 JOLIET 10 East Clinton St., Joliet, IL 60432 (815) 723-8002 MOBILE 1640 Dauphin Island Pkwy, Mobile, AL 36605 (251) 478-0916 NEW ORLEANS 3911 Lapalco Blvd., Harvey, LA 70058 (504) 328-7545 Editor’s note: Responses to this month’s question were provided by members at the union hall in New Orleans. Question: What are your views on the piracy issue and what would you do to combat it? Calvin Miles Recertified Bosun The piracy situation is getting worse. Three out of the last four ships I’ve been aboard went overseas. Two of them had security teams aboard and a third had a U.S. Navy escort. We did not have any security at all on the fourth ship, but we had plans in place with respect to places to go to on the ship if we were boarded – which, fortunately, we were not. I think more should be done to have security teams aboard vessels rather than rely on officers and members of the crews to fend off the bad guys. We have water hoses rigged up to fight pirates off should they attempt to board our vessel, but to me this won’t do very much during an actual attack. I was aboard a ship last year (ITB Philadelphia) headed to Kenya and the pirates on three boats tried to board us. Luckily, we had a security team aboard plus we had a Navy escort. Two of the boats got away, but the Navy caught the third, captured the pirates and sunk their vessel. Justin White AB I have had to stand pirate watch while on a ship. I believe that self-protection aboard ship is a very important thing. It has become increasingly more important because incidents involving piracy seem to be increasing. Still, you can’t expect the Navy or Coast Guard to always be in the areas where acts of piracy might take place. Therefore I think a certain amount of self-protection aboard the vessel is important. I also think the SIU should continue to play a leading role in determining what measures should be taken to combat this problem since it represents so many mariners aboard so many ships. The companies also have a responsibility to help keep us safe. Clinton Crowden AB P i c - F r o m - T h e -P a s t I know that the union is involved in trying to get this problem solved. I do think that more should be done from within the international community. If countries around the world would come together to help solve some of Somalia’s economic problems, I think things would be different. The pirates are doing what they are doing out of desperation. Their country is in a desperate situation economically; they are living by any means necessary to survive. So rather than concentrating on trying to police such a large area and stop the attacks, more effort should be made to assist these people and stand behind them. The United Nations should take the lead in getting all other countries together to help these people improve their lives. The problem of piracy might not go away completely, but I think that it would not be as bad as it is now. Hermen Crisanto AB I think the piracy problem is bad right now, but I’m not sure about the best way to stop it. When we are out there, we have to do our parts to protect ourselves and this includes safety. We should do everything safely while aboard ship. It should be our main focus. Next we need to be sure to follow the directions of our officers if they think we are about to be attacked. Everyone aboard the ship needs to be familiar with plans about where to go and hide if the pirates attack us. When we are in foreign ports at anchor, everyone should keep their eyes open and make sure that no unauthorized people come aboard. Jermaine Robinson Chief Cook Piracy is definitely a big problem and having armed military security teams aboard vessels is probably the best way to get it under control or stop it. Money is the pirates’ main motivation. In the event of a pirate boarding, all crew members should put into play all the practices and techniques that we learned during our training. NEW YORK 635 Fourth Ave., Brooklyn, NY 11232 (718) 499-6600 Government Services Division: (718) 499-6600 NORFOLK 115 Third St., Norfolk, VA 23510 (757) 622-1892 OAKLAND 1121 7th St., Oakland, CA 94607 (510) 444-2360 PHILADELPHIA 2604 S. 4 St., Philadelphia, PA 19148 (215) 336-3818 PINEY POINT P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674 (301) 994-0010 PORT EVERGLADES 1221 S. Andrews Ave., Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33316 (954) 522-7984 SANTURCE 1057 Fernandez Juncos Ave., Stop 16 Santurce, PR 00907 (787) 721-4033 ST. LOUIS/ALTON 4581 Gravois Ave., St. Louis, MO 63116 (314) 752-6500 TACOMA 3411 South Union Ave., Tacoma, WA 98409 (253) 272-7774 WILMINGTON 510 N. Broad Ave., Wilmington, CA 90744 (310) 549-4000 Retiree Bill Kambar (fourth from left) submitted this photo of the first-class dining room waiters aboard the SS Independence, taken around December 1950. “I was a waiter for a while and in 1951, I was promoted to chef’s yeoman,” Kambar recalled. He sailed aboard the American Hawaii Cruises vessel for 18 years and later worked as a marine personnel manager for SIU-contracted Ogden Marine, which in 1983 became OMI Corp. If anyone has a vintage union-related photograph he or she would like to share with other Seafarers LOG readers, please send it to the Seafarers LOG, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. Photographs will be returned, if so requested. High-resolution digital images may be sent to webmaster@seafarers.org 16 Seafarers LOG September 2011 �66070_SIU_LOG 8/29/2011 5:18 PM Page 17 W e l c o me A sh ore Each month, the Seafarers LOG pays tribute to the SIU members who have devoted their working lives to sailing aboard U.S.-flag vessels on the deep seas, inland waterways or Great Lakes. Listed below are brief biographical sketches of those members who recently retired from the union. The brothers and sisters of the SIU thank those members for a job well done and wish them happiness and good health in the days ahead. DEEP SEA SAYED AMASHA Brother Sayed Amasha, 63, became a Seafarer in 1980 while in the port of New York. His first trip was aboard the Liberator; his last was on the Maersk Wisconsin. Brother Amasha was born in Egypt and worked in the steward department. He upgraded three times at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. Brother Amasha lives in Brooklyn, N.Y. JOHN BULAWAN Brother John Bulawan, 69, joined the Marine Cooks & Stewards in 1974 in San Francisco. He was initially employed aboard the Santa Mercedes. Brother Bulawan was a member of the steward department. The Hawaiiborn mariner’s final trip was on the R.J. Pfeiffer. Brother Bulawan attended classes on numerous occasions at the Piney Point school. He now calls Las Vegas home. MATTHEW DUNLAVY Brother Matthew Dunlavy, 76, began sailing with the SIU in 1958. His earliest journey was on the Waldo. Brother Dunlavy shipped in the engine department. His final voyage was aboard the Houston. Brother Dunlavy resides in his native state of Texas. GERALD GAVIN Brother Gerald Gavin, 66, signed on with the Seafarers in 1998. He originally worked on the USNS Pathfinder. In 1999, Brother Gavin took advantage of educational opportunities at the SIUaffiliated school in Piney Point, Md. He most recently sailed aboard the USNS Effective. Brother Gavin worked in the engine department. He makes his home in Reno, Nev. CARLOS GONZALEZ Brother Carlos Gonzalez, 64, started shipping with the union in 1972 while in the port of New Orleans. He initially sailed on the Steel Traveler. Brother Gonzalez shipped in the deck department of both the deep sea and inland divisions. His last trip was aboard the Boomtown. September 2011 Brother Gonzalez is a resident of Marrero, La. BRENT JOHNSON Brother Brent Johnson, 71, donned the SIU colors in 1991. His earliest trip was on the USNS Titan. Brother Johnson enhanced his skills in 2010 at the Paul Hall Center. His most recent trip was aboard the Horizon Kodiak. Brother Johnson, who sailed in the deck department, lives in Bothell, Wash. LAMONT LOVICK Brother Lamont Lovick, 54, began sailing with the Seafarers in 1981. His first trip was on the Inger. Brother Lovick worked in the deck department. He upgraded often at the maritime training center in Piney Point, Md. Brother Lovick’s final voyage was on the Virginian. He was born in Norfolk, Va., and settled in nearby Newport News. SANTIAGO RAMOS Brother Santiago Ramos, 56, started his SIU career in 2001 as the NMU was merging into the SIU. The deck department member’s last trip was aboard the Chelsea. Brother Ramos calls Brooklyn, N.Y., home. MOHAMED SHAIBI Brother Mohamed Shaibi, 65, became an SIU member in 1978. His earliest trip was on the Thompson Pass. In 1987, Brother Shaibi upgraded his skills at the Paul Hall Center. He last sailed aboard the Global Sentinel. Brother Shaibi was a member of the steward department. He makes his home in Seattle. ALFREDO SILVA Brother Alfredo Silva, 65, signed on with the union in 1998. He initially worked on the Global Mariner. On numerous occasions, Brother Silva took advantage of educational opportunities at the SIU-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. The engine department member’s final trip was aboard the Sunshine State. Brother Silva resides in Hialeah, Fla. DANIEL TAYLOR Brother Daniel Taylor, 61, began sailing with the SIU in 2001. He shipped aboard vessels such as the Benavidez and the Eagle. Brother Taylor attended classes frequently at the Paul Hall Center. He worked in the steward department. Brother Taylor is a resident of Laporte, Texas. 2002, Brother Whitt visited the Seafarersaffiliated school in Piney Point, Md., to enhance his skills. He sailed in the deck department. Brother Whitt’s last voyage was aboard the Faust. He calls Houston home. JOHNNY WESTBERRY CHARLES JONES Brother Johnny Westberry, 62, became an SIU member in 2001 when the SIU and NMU merged. The steward department member upgraded his skills in 2005 at the Piney Point school. Brother Westberry most recently sailed on the Green Lake. He lives in Savannah, Ga. HENRY WHITT Brother Henry Whitt, 63, was born in Cincinnati. He started his SIU career in 2001 as the NMU was merging into the SIU. In 2001 and INLAND Brother Charles Jones, 55, joined the union in 1980. He initially signed on with Sabine Towing. Brother Jones sailed as a member of the deck department. He upgraded on two occasions at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Jones’s final trip was with Crowley Towing & Transportation of Jacksonville, Fla. He makes his home in Jacksonville. was mainly employed with Sheridan Transportation Company. Brother Meyer worked in the deck department. Brother Meyer lives in Dania Beach, Fla. GREAT LAKES DENNIS WYLLIE Brother Dennis Wyllie, 65, signed on with the union in 1976. Brother Wyllie worked in the deck department. His first ship was the Richard J. Reiss; his last was the Walter J. McCarthy. In 1979, Brother Wyllie took advantage of educational opportunities at the SIU-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. He resides in Port Huron, Mich. WILLIAM MEYER T h i s M o n t h I n S I U H i st o r y Brother William Meyer, 62, began sailing with the SIU in 1985. He Editor’s note: The following items are reprinted from previous editions of the Seafarers LOG. stave off a contract with SIU, Hall told of extensive use of crimps and other questionable hiring practices prevailing in the unorganized tanker field. One of the most modern union halls in the country was officially opened last week by the SIU. The sixstory building at 51 Beaver Street will house both the New York branch and the Atlantic & Gulf District offices. The union occupies the top five floors with the shipping hall taking the entire second floor. The lounge, complete with card and writing tables, takes the third floor. The stewards’ offices and the baggage room, which offers free baggage checking for members in good standing, are on the fourth floor and branch offices, including the office of the Seafarers LOG, take up the fifth floor. Atlantic & Gulf District Headquarters comprise the top floor. The reaction of the membership to their new home has been very favorable. Commenting on the new building one Seafarer said, “From now on we don’t have to take off our hat to nobody.” 1968 1944 The SIU’s four-year fight for a Cities Service contract produced ample evidence of an anti-union conspiracy among the big oil tanker companies, Secretary-Treasurer Paul Hall told a Senate Labor Subcommittee, as a probe of labor-management relations in the East Coast tanker industry got under way on September 25. In a statement to the subcommittee, headed by Sen. James Murray (D-Mont.), SIU officials declared that the Cities Service Oil Company and its allies in the industry thumbed their noses at the law, at the community, and the men who man their ships. Describing the labor spy set-up, mass firing, company unions, stalling, and similar techniques employed by the marine division of Cities Service to 1950 The SIU’s Welfare and Vacation plans have paid out a total in benefits of $101,039,786.89. The SIU Welfare Plan was first launched in 1950 and, since that time, more than $41,555,958.55 has been paid out for hospital, death, disability, maternity, dependent, optical and outpatient benefits. In February 1952, the SIU Vacation Plan was inaugurated and it has since paid a total of $59,483,828.34 in vacation benefits for SIU members. The total value of welfare benefits is actually considerably higher, since the cost of scholarship payments, meal books, training facilities, and medical examinations – for SIU members and their dependents – are not included in the above figures. The SIU-AGLIW District and its contracted companies have reached an agreement on a new contract. The contract provides wage increases giving SIU members the highest base wage scale on the East and Gulf Coasts coupled with a new earlier retirement pension program. The wage and pension combination together with an increased contribution to the Seafarers Welfare Plan brought the total value of the package to more than $100 per month. Monthly wage increases ranged from a low of $24.04 to a high of $45.63. The new Pension Plan provides that effective January 1, 1971, a seaman who has 20 years sea time and is 55 years of age may retire at $250 per month. The current pension benefits, including retirement at 65 with 15 years sea time and retirement on disability with 12 years of sea time, remain in effect. 1970 Seafarers LOG 17 �66070_SIU_LOG 8/29/2011 5:18 PM Page 18 Fina l De pa r tu r e s DEEP SEA LLOYD AKIN Pensioner Lloyd Akin, 86, died March 18. Brother Akin was born in McKinney, Texas. He signed on with the SIU in 1953. Brother Akin, a member of the deck department, originally worked with Bloomfield Steamship Company. He last sailed aboard the Liberator. Brother Akin went on pension in 1987 and lived in Humble, Texas. MICHAEL ANZALONE Pensioner Michael Anzalone, 74, passed away April 6. Brother Anzalone became a Seafarer in 1957 in the port of New York. He initially sailed on the Ft. Hoskins. The Brooklyn-born mariner was a member of the steward department. Prior to his retirement in 1996, Brother Anzalone worked aboard the Charles L. Brown. He settled in Phoenix, Ariz. ALFRED BERTRAND Pensioner Alfred Bertrand, 79, died April 14. Brother Bertrand joined the union in 1961. He originally worked aboard a Hercules Steamship Corporation vessel. Brother Bertrand’s final trip was on the Overseas Chicago. The engine department member was born in Houston. Brother Bertrand retired in 1997 and called Pasadena, Texas, home. GLENN BERTRAND Brother Glenn Bertrand, 53, passed away January 15. Brother Bertrand first donned the SIU colors in 1975. He initially shipped aboard the Long Lines. Brother Bertrand, who sailed in both the steward and deck departments, was born in Houston. He last worked on the Westward Venture. Brother Bertrand made his home in Pearland, Texas. JAMES DICKINSON Pensioner James Dickinson, 86, died March 23. Brother Dickinson began shipping with the union in 1943. He was an Alabama native and worked in the engine department. During his seafaring career, 18 Seafarers LOG Brother Dickinson sailed with Waterman Steamship Corporation and V Ships Marine. He went on pension in 1987 and lived in Denver. RANDOLPH FEREBEE Pensioner Randolph Ferebee, 85, passed away March 28. Brother Ferebee signed on with the SIU in 1956 while in the port of New York. The engine department member initially shipped on the Robin Mowbray. Brother Ferebee was born in Norfolk, Va. His final trip was aboard the USNS Prevail. Brother Ferebee called Elizabeth City, N.C., home. ARTHUR HARRINGTON Pensioner Arthur Harrington, 82, died March 18. Brother Harrington was born in Massachusetts. He started sailing with the SIU in 1952 while in the port of New York. Brother Harrington, who sailed in the deck department, was first employed with Ore Navigation Corporation. His last voyage was aboard the ITB New York. Brother Harrington retired in 1991. He was a resident of Charleston, S.C. LEON KLEINMAN Pensioner Leon Kleinman, 87, passed away March 20. Brother Kleinman was born in New York. He started sailing with the Seafarers in 1956 while in the port of New Orleans. Brother Kleinman sailed in the engine department. He was primarily employed with Waterman Steamship, sailing on vessels such as the Hurricane and the Stonewall Jackson. Brother Kleinman became a pensioner in 1988. He was a resident of Kenner, La. ROBERTO MACATUNO Brother Roberto Macatuno, 50, died February 14. Brother Macatuno joined the union in 1998 in Baltimore. During his SIU career he sailed aboard vessels operated by TYCO such as the Charles Brown and the Global Link. Brother Macatuno was born in the Philippines and shipped in the deck department. He settled in Dundalk, Md. LOUIS MCDUFFIE Pensioner Louis McDuffie, 64, passed away March 14. Brother McDuffie became an SIU member in 1967 while in the port of Mobile, Ala. His earliest trip was aboard a Hudson Waterways Corporation vessel. Brother McDuffie last shipped on the Overseas Natalie. He sailed in both the deck and engine departments. Brother McDuffie started receiving his pension in 1990 and made his home in Mobile. MAURICE OLSON Pensioner Maurice Olson, 93, died April 8. Brother Olson began sailing with the Seafarers in 1944. He was born in Milwaukee, Wis. Brother Olson initially shipped with Waterman Steamship Corporation. His final ship was the Inger. Brother Olson, who sailed in the deck department, went on pension in 1983. He lived in Tewksbury, Mass. Editor’s note: The following brothers and sister, all former members of the National Maritime Union (NMU), have passed away. NATIONAL MARITIME UNION DONALD BERGER Pensioner Donald Berger, 89, passed away January 12. Brother Berger retired in 1986 and resided in Ephrata, Wash. HUMBERTO BOCANEGRA Pensioner Humberto Bocanegra, 81, died February 24. Brother Bocanegra, a native of Kingsville, Texas, became a pensioner in 1995. He called Robstown, Texas, home. PEDRO BOU Pensioner Pedro Bou, 87, passed away March 7. Brother Bou was born in Corozal, P.R. He went on pension in 1971. Brother Bou settled in Puerto Rico. PERCIVAL BUCHANAN Pensioner Percival Buchanan, 89, died March 11. The Jamaican-born mariner became a pensioner in 1977. Brother Buchanan was a resident of St. Petersburg, Fla. ARTHUR BURNS Pensioner Arthur Burns, 84, passed away February 5. Brother Burns was a native of New York. He started collecting his retirement compensation in 1985. Brother Burns lived in the Bronx, N.Y. ANTONE CASIMERO Pensioner Antone Casimero, 85, died January 28. Brother Casimero was born in Hawaii. He went on pension in 1987 and called El Paso, Texas, home. MARTIN CRUZ Pensioner Martin Cruz, 96, passed away February 3. Brother Cruz was a native of Yabucoa, P.R. He retired in 1972. Brother Cruz continued to make his home in Puerto Rico. ANTHONY DELSIE Pensioner Anthony Delsie, 97, died March 3. Brother Delsie was born in Boston. He became a pensioner in 1975. Brother Delsie settled in Brockton, Mass. EUGENE DICKERSON Pensioner Eugene Dickerson, 83, passed away February 15. Brother Dickerson was a Banes, La., native. He started collecting his retirement compensation in 1974. Brother Dickerson lived in Dallas. MIGUEL FARINA Pensioner Miguel Farina, 97, died February 21. Brother Farina, a native of Spain, went on pension in 1980. He was a resident of Middle Village, N.Y. HENRY FRANKLIN Pensioner Henry Franklin, 84, passed away March 3. Brother Franklin was born in Norfolk, Va. He began receiving his pension in 1972. Brother Franklin lived in Wilson, N.C. LAURO GONZALES Pensioner Lauro Gonzales, 86, died February 18. Born in Maxwell, Texas, he became a pensioner in 1989. Brother Gonzales was a resident of New Orleans. ERNEST HAGGER Pensioner Ernest Hagger, 73, passed away January 27. Brother Hagger was a Lake Charles, La., native. He retired in 2000. Brother Hagger continued to reside in Lake Charles. EUGENE JONES Pensioner Eugene Jones, 71, died February 25. Brother Jones was born in Kansas City. He went on pension in 2002. Brother Jones settled in Snohomish, Wash. 86, died February 17. Brother Lockwood was born in Indiana. He began receiving his pension in 1986. Brother Lockwood resided in New Salisbury, Ind. JAMES McCONNELL Pensioner James McConnell, 87, passed away February 14. Brother McConnell was a native of Winston-Salem, N.C. He became a pensioner in 1989. Brother McConnell made his home in Camden City, N.J. JOSEPH PATRIARCA Pensioner Joseph Patriarca, 83, died March 9. Brother Patriarca was born in Italy. He went on pension in 1968 and lived in Liverpool. ANTONIO RODRIGUEZ Pensioner Antonio Rodriguez, 94, passed away March 7. Brother Rodriguez, a native of Puerto Rico, began collecting his retirement compensation in 1967. He was a New York resident. MICHAEL SANOIAN Pensioner Michael Sanoian, 83, died March 4. Brother Sanoian was a New York native. He retired in 1990 and called Ransomville, N.Y., home. HERMINIO SANTIAGO Pensioner Herminio Santiago, 80, passed away March 14. Brother Santiago was born in Puerto Rico. He became a pensioner in 1981. Brother Santiago settled in Florida. Name Age DOD Cameron, John 83 March 4 Charles, Rosie 79 Feb. 9 Ebanks, Harris 93 Jan. 16 Emilien, Raymond 81 March 16 Escudero, Gabriel 95 Feb. 20 Freeman, Thomas 85 Jan. 27 Goodman, Carlton 85 March 15 Harris, Willie 86 Feb. 5 Hart, Louis 95 Jan. 14 Haylock, Edward 86 Feb. 16 Hubbard, Samuel 83 Jan. 19 Leung, Albert 85 Jan. 25 Marshall, James 70 Feb. 15 Mottola, Michael 87 Feb. 24 Ortiz, Heriberto 91 Feb. 7 Preston, Manuel 85 Feb. 4 Rodriguez, Fabian 90 Feb. 16 Villanueva, Alfonso 77 March 7 WILLIAM KUKLA Pensioner William Kukla, 88, passed away March 11. Brother Kukla, a native of Cass, Pa., started collecting his retirement compensation in 1988. He called Williamstown, N.J., home NEWTON LOCKWOOD Pensioner Newton Lockwood, September 2011 �66070_SIU_LOG 8/29/2011 5:18 PM Page 19 D i g es t o f S h ip b oa r d U n io n M e et i ng s SEABULK TRADER (Seabulk International), June 19 – Chairman Jessie Natividad Jr., Secretary John McGill, Educational Director Gilbert L. Johnson, Deck Delegate Melvin Smalls, Engine Delegate Matthew Wright. Chairman went over procedures for getting and renewing MMDs/merchant mariner credentials. Secretary reported smooth sailing and reiterated the need to renew documents in a timely manner. He also advised all mariners to enhance skills at the union-affiliated training center in Piney Point, Md. Educational director suggested that members visit www.seafarers.org or read the Seafarers LOG to get class schedules for the Piney Point school. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Bosun discussed unemployment issues and gave a recommendation how they may be avoided. ALASKAN FRONTIER (Alaska Tanker), July 17 – Chairman Richard A. Szabo, Secretary Gregory S. Lynch, Educational Director Rollin R. Crump, Deck Delegate Jose M. Calong, Engine Delegate Alberto B. Semeda, Steward Delegate Roberto Martinez. Chairman noted a good gang on deck including five extra DEUs riding for the summer. Secretary explained to the crew that company “Wellness Program” is beginning to settle in. Soda products have been discontinued; new juice machines have been installed with Gatorade and iced tea in them. He advised them to let the steward department know of any health issues so they can try to accommodate them. Educational director urged mariners to renew documents in plenty of time so no job opportunities will be missed. Treasurer reported $8,000 in ship’s fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew members were asked to keep laundry room clean. Kudos given to the steward department for good food. Members would like increased medical, dental and vacation benefits. CHARGER (Maersk Line, Limited), July 9 – Chairman Gerry Gianan, Secretary Rolando M. Lopez, Educational Director Andrew J. Linares, Deck Delegate Hussein Mohamed, Engine Delegate Amer Ghaleb, Steward Delegate Khaled Taffi. Chairman went over ship’s itinerary and reminded crew to upgrade and to renew documents in timely fashion. He discussed the proper way to operate crew washing machine. Crew was thanked for a safe, accident-free voyage. Secretary expressed gratitude for mariners helping keep ship clean. He asked departing members to strip down beds and send linen to laundry. Educational director encouraged mariners to upgrade at Paul Hall Center and contribute to SPAD (Seafarers Political Activity Donation). Beef reported in the deck department; no disputed OT. Request was made for Wi-Fi installation and extra computer in crew lounge. Next port: Long Beach, Calif. GLOBAL SENTINEL (Transoceanic Cable Ship Company), July 26 – Chairman Lee Hardman, Secretary Vicki L. Haggerty, Educational Director Vladimir Tkachev, Engine Delegate John Carson. Bosun discussed ship’s itinerary and thanked the steward department for a great Fourth of July BBQ. He talked about issues involving outside contractors aboard vessel. Secretary suggested raising budget. She reported that September 2011 The Seafarers LOG attempts to print as many digests of union shipboard minutes as possible. On occasion, because of space limitations, some will be omitted. Ships’ minutes first are reviewed by the union’s contract department. Those issues requiring attention or resolution are addressed by the union upon receipt of the ships’ minutes. The minutes are then forwarded to the Seafarers LOG for publication. Scenes from Cape Intrepid Seafarers from the Crowley-operated Cape Intrepid submitted these photos following a voyage that ended in Portland, Ore. Chief Steward Sally Santiago, Chief Cook Benjamin Sivells, SA Demetri Baker AB Brian Frederick, AB Robert Calvo, OS Mohamed Alghazali new ice machine to be delivered July 28. Educational director advised all mariners to attend classes at the Seafarers-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md., and stay upto-date on all necessary seafaring documents. Treasurer stated $3,300 in ship’s fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew would like information on contract. HORIZON PRODUCER (Horizon Lines), July 27 – Chairman Edwin Rivera, Secretary Kenneth L. McHellen, Educational Director Angel S. Hernandez, Deck Delegate Jimmy T. Orr, Engine Delegate Hector J. Ginel, Steward Delegate Juan J. Vallejo. Chairman announced payoff on July 28 before arrival in Puerto Rico. He reminded crew two forms of ID were required at all APM terminals and in Puerto Rico. He thanked steward department for a great job. Secretary urged mariners to keep trash separated from plastics. He reminded them that when washing clothes, one washer is for work clothes, the other is for street clothes. Educational director urged members to enhance their skills, which can lead to better opportunities and advancement. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Members talked about issues directly and Bosun LBJ Tanoa, OS Mohamed Alghazali, AB Raul Molina QMED/Chief Electrician Phillip Greenwell indirectly related to Seafarers Vacation Plan. They also discussed maintaining possession of passports. Next ports: Jacksonville, Fla., and San Juan, P.R. HORIZON TIGER (Horizon Lines), July 3 – Chairman Lawrence L. Kunc, Secretary Terry L. Allen, Educational Director Mohamed Y. Abdullah, Deck Delegate James E. Murphy, Engine Delegate Lonnie Carter. Chairman stated payoff to take place before arrival in Los Angeles. He thanked crew for a great job getting ship ready for sea after shipyard stay. Secretary informed members that as of June 1 they can get medical records, seatime and forms from www.seafarers.org. Educational director reiterated the need to renew documents in a timely manner and advised all mariners to enhance skills at the union-affiliated training center in Piney Point, Md. No beefs or disputed OT reported. President’s report from the June Seafarers LOG was read and discussed. Need for new mattresses was noted. Crew would also like company to provide internet service and satellite phone. Vote of thanks given to the steward department for excellent food. Next ports: Los Angeles and Oakland, Calif. HORIZON TRADER (Horizon Lines), July 3 – Chairman Tony Mercado, Secretary Kevin M. Dougherty, Educational Director Thomas M. Flynn, Engine Delegate Jermaine Love, Steward Delegate Richard Jones. Bosun announced payoff before scheduled July 8 arrival in Jacksonville, Fla. He thanked steward department for BBQs and fine food. Educational director advised everyone to upgrade at the SIU-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md., and make sure they stay up-to-date on their TWIC and MMD/MMC. Treasurer reported $2,000 in ship’s fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Recommendation was made to increase pension benefits. Clarification requested about Horizon Lines yearly stress test and physical policy. Next ports: Jacksonville, Fla. and San Juan, P.R. MAERSK CAROLINA (Maersk Line, Limited), July 17 – Chairman Wilfred P. Maurice, Secretary Alexander Banky III, Educational Director Kevin M. Cooper. Chairman reported another safe trip with no lost-time injures; that makes 2,564 days. He reminded AB Moses Shaibi crew to keep garbage room locked in port and thanked them for working professionally. Secretary requested an additional steward assistant to offset the increased workload due to extra personnel on vessel. He advised mariners to read the Seafarers LOG to stay informed on any changes to benefits or shipping rules. Educational director reminded crew to get their time in and take advantage of upgrading at Piney Point. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Suggestions were made regarding pension, medical and vacation benefits MAERSK GEORGIA (Maersk Line, Limited), July 31 – Chairman Michael Brewley, Secretary Darryl K. Goggins, Educational Director Bryan E. Maddox, Deck Delegate Ion Boros. Chairman read and discussed the latest issue of the Seafarers LOG. Secretary asked members departing vessel to leave rooms clean and supplied with fresh linen. Educational director urged members to enhance their skills, which can lead to better opportunities and advancement. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew made recommendations pertaining to medical and dental benefits. Next port: Norfolk, Va. Seafarers LOG 19 �66070_SIU_LOG_X 8/30/2011 7:25 PM Page 20 The USNS Lewis and Clark sails in the Pacific Ocean as cargo is transferred from the dry cargo-ammunition ship to the USNS Comfort. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Alesia Goosic) A U.S. military helicopter carries gear to the hospital ship USNS Comfort from the USNS Lewis and Clark during an underway replenishment. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Eric C. Tretter) The unrep continues with the aid of an MH-60S Sea Hawk helicopter. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Jonathen E. Davis) SIU CIVMARS Support Various Missions Members of the SIU Government Services Division sail aboard different types of U.S. Military Sealift Command vessels supporting our armed forces. They also back humanitarian missions, research projects and other assignments sponsored by the U.S. government. Pictured on this page are recent scenes of two CIVMAR-crewed ships in action: the USNS Comfort and the USNS Lewis and Clark. As previously reported, the Comfort is sailing on a fivemonth humanitarian mission known as Continuing Promise 2011. All photos were taken in late July. FINANCIAL REPORTS. The Constitution of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU makes specific provision for safeguarding the membership’s money and union finances. The constitution requires a detailed audit by certified public accountants every year, which is to be submitted to the membership by the secretary-treasurer. A yearly finance committee of rank-and-file members, elected by the membership, each year examines the finances of the union and reports fully their findings and recommendations. Members of this committee may make dissenting reports, specific recommendations and separate findings. TRUST FUNDS. All trust funds of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU are administered in accordance with the provisions of various trust fund agreements. All these agreements specify that the trustees in charge of these funds shall equally consist of union and management representatives and their alternates. All expenditures and disbursements of trust funds are made only upon approval by a majority of the trustees. All trust fund financial records are available at the headquarters of the various trust funds. SHIPPING RIGHTS. A member’s shipping rights and seniority are protected exclusively by contracts between the union and the employers. Members should get to know their shipping rights. Copies of these contracts are posted and available in all union halls. If members believe there have been violations of their shipping or seniority rights as contained in the contracts between the union and the employers, they should notify the Seafarers Appeals Board by certified mail, return 20 Seafarers LOG Bosun Gerald Butch places chaffing gear on mooring lines as the USNS Comfort is docked in El Salvador. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Eric C. Tretter) Kn ow Y o u r R i gh t s Personnel embarked aboard the USNS Comfort accept cargo from the USNS Lewis and Clark. (U.S. Air Force photo by SSgt. Courtney Richardson) receipt requested. The proper address for this is: Augustin Tellez, Chairman Seafarers Appeals Board 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 Full copies of contracts as referred to are available to members at all times, either by writing directly to the union or to the Seafarers Appeals Board. CONTRACTS. Copies of all SIU contracts are available in all SIU halls. These contracts specify the wages and conditions under which an SIU member works and lives aboard a ship or boat. Members should know their contract rights, as well as their obligations, such as filing for overtime (OT) on the proper sheets and in the proper manner. If, at any time, a member believes that an SIU patrolman or other union official fails to protect their contractual rights properly, he or she should contact the nearest SIU port agent. EDITORIAL POLICY — THE SEAFARERS LOG. The Seafarers LOG traditionally has refrained from publishing any article serving the political purposes of any individual in the union, officer or member. It also has refrained from publishing articles deemed harmful to the union or its collective membership. This established policy has been reaffirmed by membership action at the September 1960 meetings in all constitutional ports. The responsibility for Seafarers LOG policy is vested in an editorial board which consists of the executive board of the union. The executive board may delegate, from among its ranks, one individual to carry out this responsibility. PAYMENT OF MONIES. No monies are to be paid to anyone in any official capacity in the SIU unless an official union receipt is given for same. Under no circumstances should any member pay any money for any reason unless he is given such receipt. In the event anyone attempts to require any such payment be made without supplying a receipt, or if a member is required to make a payment and is given an official receipt, but feels that he or she should not have been required to make such payment, this should immediately be reported to union headquarters. CONSTITUTIONAL RIGHTS AND OBLIGATIONS. Copies of the SIU Constitution are available in all union halls. All members should obtain copies of this constitution so as to familiarize themselves with its contents. Any time a member feels any other member or officer is attempting to deprive him or her of any constitutional right or obligation by any methods, such as dealing with charges, trials, etc., as well as all other details, the member so affected should immediately notify headquarters. EQUAL RIGHTS. All members are guaranteed equal rights in employment and as members of the SIU. These rights are clearly set forth in the SIU Constitution and in the contracts which the union has negotiated with the employers. Consequently, no member may be discriminated against because of race, creed, color, sex, national or geographic origin. If any member feels that he or she is denied the equal rights to which he or she is entitled, the member should notify union headquarters. SEAFARERS POLITICAL ACTIVITY DONATION — SPAD. SPAD is a separate segregated fund. Its proceeds are used to further its objects and purposes including, but not limited to, furthering the political, social and economic interests of maritime workers, the preservation and furthering of the American merchant marine with improved employment opportunities for seamen and boatmen and the advancement of trade union concepts. In connection with such objects, SPAD supports and contributes to political candidates for elective office. All contributions are voluntary. No contribution may be solicited or received because of force, job discrimination, financial reprisal, or threat of such conduct, or as a condition of membership in the union or of employment. If a contribution is made by reason of the above improper conduct, the member should notify the Seafarers International Union or SPAD by certified mail within 30 days of the contribution for investigation and appropriate action and refund, if involuntary. A member should support SPAD to protect and further his or her economic, political and social interests, and American trade union concepts. NOTIFYING THE UNION — If at any time a member feels that any of the above rights have been violated, or that he or she has been denied the constitutional right of access to union records or information, the member should immediately notify SIU President Michael Sacco at headquarters by certified mail, return receipt requested. The address is: Michael Sacco, President Seafarers International Union 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746. September 2011 �66070_SIU_LOG 8/29/2011 5:18 PM Page 21 P a u l H a ll C e nt e r U p g ra d ing C o u rs e Sc he d u le The following is the schedule of courses at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md., for the next few months. All programs are geared to improving the job skills of Seafarers and to promoting the American maritime industry. Please note that this schedule may change to reflect the needs of the membership, the maritime industry and—in times of conflict—the nation’s security. Students attending any of these classes should check in the Saturday before their course’s start date. The courses listed here will begin promptly on the morning of the start dates. For classes ending on a Friday, departure reservations should be made for Saturday. Seafarers who have any questions regarding the upgrading courses offered at the Paul Hall Center may call the admissions office at (301) 994-0010. Title of Course Bosun Recertification October 28 November 7 November 12 GMDSS November 18 November 26 Lifeboat December 9 September 17 October 15 November 12 STOS September 30 October 28 November 25 October 29 Radar renewal (one day) November 11 September 7 November 7 Radar Observer September 7 November 7 August 6 Tanker Asst. Cargo DL FOWT October 1 October 15 ECDIS BAPO Date of Completion Deck Department Able Seaman Tank Barge PIC Start Date September 30 October 8 October 14 Engine Department September 17 November 12 October 14 December 9 October 15 November 11 October 22 Marine Electrician December 16 September 24 November 18 UPGRADING APPLICATION Name ____________________________________________________________________ Address __________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________ Telephone (Home)_________________________ (Cell)_________________________ Date of Birth ______________________________________________________________ Deep Sea Member ❏ Lakes Member ❏ Inland Waters Member ❏ If the following information is not filled out completely, your application will not be processed. Social Security #_______________________ Book # ____________________________ Seniority_____________________________ Department______________________ Home Port_____________________________________________________________ Start Date Pumpman September 17 Welding October 1 October 29 November 26 Steward Department Date of Completion September 30 October 21 November 18 December 16 Chief Steward October 8 November 18 Chief Cook These modules start every other week. The most recent class began August 22. Galley Operations/Advanced Galley Operations These modules start every Monday. Advanced Firefighting Safety Upgrading Courses September 17 November 12 Basic Firefighting/STCW September 10 October 1 Government Vessels August 13 Medical Care Provider October 1 November 26 Vessel Security Officer August 19 September 17 Junior Engineer Title of Course NOTICE: October 15 September 30 November 25 September 16 October 7 August 19 October 7 December 2 October 18 NMC Web Site is Vital Resource for Mariners The National Maritime Center (NMC), the licensing authority for the U.S. Coast Guard, offers a comprehensive web site covering mariner credentialing, medical guidelines and much more. The site features a wide range of applications and forms, deck- and engine-department exam information, lists of Coast Guardapproved courses and more. Seafarers are encouraged to check out the site at:http://www.uscg.mil/nmc/ Mariners may call the NMC at 1888-IASKNMC (1-888-427-5662). Operational hours are 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. EST, Monday through Friday. (The NMC is closed for all federal holidays.) Various email forms also are available through the NMC web site. With this application, COPIES of the following must be sent: One hundred and twentyfive (125) days seatime for the previous year, one day in the last six months prior to the date your class starts, USMMD (z-card) front and back or relevant pages of merchant mariner credential, front page of your union book indicating your department and seniority, qualifying seatime for the course if it is Coast Guard tested, 1995 STCW Certificate, valid SHBP Clinic Card and TWIC. COURSE ____________________________ ____________________________ ____________________________ ____________________________ ____________________________ START DATE _______________ _______________ _______________ _______________ _______________ DATE OF COMPLETION _______________ _______________ _______________ _______________ _______________ LAST VESSEL: __________________________________Rating: ______________ E-mail________________________________________________________________ Date On: ___________________________ Date Off:________________________ _________________________________________________________________________ NOTE: Transportation will be paid in accordance with the scheduling letter only if you present original receipts and successfully complete the course. If you have any questions, contact your port agent before departing for Piney Point. Not all classes are reimbursable.Return completed application to: Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education Admissions Office, P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674-0075; or fax to (301) 994-2189. The Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education is a private, non-profit, equal opportunity institution and admits students, who are otherwise qualified, of any race, nationality or sex. The school complies with applicable laws with regard to admission, access or treatment of students in its programs or activities. 9/11 Endorsement(s) or License(s) now held______________________________________ Are you a graduate of the SHLSS/PHC trainee program? ❏ Yes ❏ No Have you attended any SHLSS/PHC upgrading courses? ❏ Yes ❏ No If yes, class # ______________________________________________________________ If yes, course(s) taken_____________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________________ September 2011 SIGNATURE ________________________________ DATE___________________ Seafarers LOG 21 �66070_SIU_LOG 8/29/2011 5:18 PM Page 22 P a u l H a l l C en t er C l a s s es Unlicensed Apprentice Water Survival Class 748 – The following individu- als (above, in alphabetical order) graduated from this 60-hour course July 8: Kenneth Atkinson, Matthew Bailer, Darvin Brown, James Burnett Jr., Paul Douglas, Elizabeth Ibanez, Christopher King, Do Quoc Luong, Forrest McGee, Kaleb McGill, Orvin Mejia, Yancey Mitchell, Nathan Nicholson, Lucas Osborn, Ryan Papa, Steven Patton, Andrew Powell, Adolph Romero IV, Jerry Semper Jr., Daunteley Signal, John Sorsdal, Burton Uys, and Steven Whiting. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Welding - Eight upgraders completed their requirements in this course July 29. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Matthew Bryant, Robert Glenn, Creg Gumanas, Jose Liwag, Joe Ng, Charlotte Tuggle, Alexander Ward and Clarence Wilson Jr. Class Instructor Buzzy Andrews is standing at the far left. Unlicensed Apprentice Water Survival Class 749 – Sixteen individuals completed this course Aug. 5. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Ali Ali, Tania Carson, Omar Custis, Matthew Dalgetty, Edward English, Carlo Gentile, Warren Gormon, Elizabeth Ibanez, Derrick Martin, Angela Puchalsky, Nikita Ryshkov, Joshua Schwartz, Muthana Shaibi, Brandon Simken, Justin Smith and Brett Tiedeman. (Note: Not all are pictured.) FOWT – Thirteen individuals finished this course July 22. Completing their requirements (above, in alphabetical order) were: Terrance Bing, John Cacella, Darrin Cobb, Manolito Garcia, Elliott Kolner, Andre MacCray, Deven McCoy, Terrence Meadows, Jhon Moreno, Osamah Saleh, Buck Sampson, German Solar Cortes and Ricardo Vazquez Jr. Their instructor, Tim Achorn, is standing at the far left. Tankship Familiarization DL – The following Seafarers (above, in alphabetical order) finished this course Aug. 5: Oheneba Ackon, Dennis Blake, Charles Gaitu, Leonard Gregg, Alvin Jackson, Alexander Kramer, Reynaldo Lacayo, Derek Melvin, Jhon Moreno, Jesse Osborne, Efren Pahinag, Mark Pesola, Tijani Rashid, Randall Rodgers, Benjamin Sandoval, Milan Taigan and Robert Taylor. Brad Wheler, their instructor, is standing at the far left Tank PIC Barge – Seventeen upgraders completed their training in this course May 20. Those graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Daniel Coffman, Burkley Cooper, John Crawford, Manuel Enrico, Victor Gonzalez, John Haller, Leroyal Hester, Mark Hoffman, Dwight Hunt, Edgardo Ines, Yakan Isreal, Eric Lund, John Mbelwa, Costica Oprisoru, Michael Phillips, Donato Surell and Thomas Tramutola. Class Instructor Mitch Oakley is standing seventh from the left. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Tankship Familiarization – Twenty-five Phase III unlicensed apprentices finished this course July 15. Among those graduating (right, in alphabetical order) were: Jatniel Aguilera, Cliff Alexis, Mutea Alnuzely, Jason Amy, Brett Arcouette, Frances-Brian Bautista, Juan Bautista, Terence Brennan, Marco Brown, Cory Ellis, Phillip Gifford, Brandon Grace, Joseph Haines, Evan Jones, Roosevelt Osborne, Michael Paiko, David Simon, Patrick Slade Jr., Adam Smith, Steven Supplee, Zara Tchitanava, Zachary Thibeault, Timothy Van weezel, Jason Wagner and Steven Welcome. 22 Seafarers LOG September 2011 �66070_SIU_LOG 8/29/2011 5:18 PM Page 23 Pa u l H a l l C e n t e r C l a s s e s Marine Electrician – Twelve Seafarers graduated from this course July 1. Completing their requirements (left, in alphabetical order) were: Arkady Bichevsky, Mervin Cruzat, Archie Eldridge Jr., Montree Nakwichet, Andrew Peprah, Ahmed Sharif, Enrique Velez Vallejo, Joseph Waller Jr., Ronald Westerfield, Eeric White, Jason Young and Christopher Zaucha. Class Instructor Jay Henderson is at the far right. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Important Notice Students who have registered for classes at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, but later discover—for whatever reason—that they cannot attend should inform the admissions department immediately so arrangements can be made to have other students take their places. ECDIS – Two upgraders (above, in alphabetical order) completed this course Juy 22. Gradating were Thomas Halliburton and Felix Nunez. Their instructor, Brad Wheeler, is at the right. Junior Engineer – Fifteen upgraders finished their requirements in this course July 1. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Azad Ardeshirdavani, Antoine Best, Jeremias Cepeda, Marion Collins, James Fells, Spencer Hiruko, Andy IIiscupidez, Reynaldo Lacayo, Brent Morris, Gregorio Orara Jr., Ernest Smith, Peter Solis, Kevin Tyson, Lee Weygandt and Joshua Zelinsky. Class Instructor Robert Ott is seated at the far left. (Note: Not all are pictured.) BST – The following Seafarers (above, in alphabetical order) completed their requirements in this course July 22: Felsher Beasley, Arkady Bichevsky, Gregorio Blanco, Rafael Borja, David Dinan, Edward English, Obencio Espinoza, Leonard Gregg, Elizabeth Ibanez, Reynaldo Lacayo, Detrell Lambey, Jesse Osborne, Thomas Paytosh, Mark Pesola, Tijani Rashid, Milan Taigan, Kenneth Taylor, Fernando Vega Mercadi and Richard Wittwer. Their instructor, Mike Roberts, is at the far right. BST (HAWAII) – The following individuals (above, in no particular order) completed this course July 2 at the Seafarers Training Facility in Barbers Point, Hawaii: Marie Alikpala, Kemberly Born, Michael Bradford, Editha Caluya, Juan Garcia, Summer Gilmer, Orlando Guzman, Paul Herrin, Kyle Isaken, Cashira Maddox, Trace McGinley, Shana Rawls, David Rhodes Jr., Anne Sansone, Robin Taylor, Marino Cendana, Elvin Garcia and Christopher Wagner. September 2011 ECDIS – Fourteen Seafarers finished their requirements in this course May 7. Those graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Joel Anderson, Darren Bates, Douglas Crawford, William Davis Jr., Michael Eaton, Lewis Findley, Nicole Geideman, Andrew Higbee, Randy Isenhart, Keith Langley, Matthew Parker, Charlie Pierce, Lawrence Soulier and Troy Tadlock. (Note: Not all are pictured.) BST (HAWAII) - Eight individuals finished their requirements in this course July 23 at the Hawaii-based Seafarers Training Facility. Graduating (above, in no particular order) were: Cary Bostick, Travis Dorsett, Jeremiah Langbehn, Scott Malmros, Yohanly Martin, Donley Harris, Richardo Baltazar and Lauren Hixon. Seafarers LOG 23 �66070_SIU_LOG 8/29/2011 5:19 PM Page 24 Volume 73, Number 8 September 2011 U n io n Pl u s S c h o l a r s h i p In f o r m at i o n P ag e 1 4 CIVMAR Crew’s Diligence, Experience Pay Off S uperior training, attention to detail and an unwavering ability to consistently deliver the goods are firmly entrenched attributes of mariners who wear the SIU colors. The benefits associated with these traits over the years have been reaped by SIUcontracted companies as well as by the maritime transportation industry, each branch of the U.S. Armed Forces and the American public as a whole. The recent actions of AB Battiste Broadus and his shipmates provide an excellent example of how others often gain from the skills of Seafarers. Thanks to his SIU CIVMAR AB Batiste Broadus stands watch aboard the MSC fleet replenishment oiler USNS Guadalupe off the coast of San Diego. (U.S. Navy photo by John Jacob) unrelenting diligence, some 2,200 pounds of marijuana – with a street value of $8.5 to $11.5 million – were seized in July by California Customs and Border Protection agents and the U.S. Coast Guard in California. A CIVMAR in the union’s Government Services Division, Broadus currently sails aboard the Military Sealift Command (MSC) operated USNS Guadalupe. During the early evening hours of June 30 near San Diego, Broadus and his shipmates were going about their normal duties aboard the 670-foot fleet replenishment oiler which was headed to its steam box (an area designated close to shore where a vessel operates between duty assignments, often overnight), located some 20 miles off shore. The Guadalupe’s radar earlier had identified a small boat that was positioned in its route. Broadus was standing watch aboard his vessel along with fellow crewmembers OS Travis Laws, AB Frederick Beck and Third Officer John Jacob. Collectively, they were monitoring conditions aboard the Guadalupe while also keeping close watch over local boat traffic, which included fishing and other recreational craft. Just before dusk, the small boat that earlier had been picked up by radar came into focus for Broadus, who was scanning the surrounding area with his binoculars. Almost instantly, Broadus, who has sailed in the SIU’s Government Services Division for some 10 years, noticed something very strange about the small boat: no evening lights were lit and nobody could be seen moving about on its uncovered deck. “Three things made me suspicious of the boat,” he said. “The vessel was stationary, it had no type of lighting on whatsoever and I was not able to see anyone moving about on its deck. “The fact that no one was visible on deck was very much out of the ordinary because the vessel was open-topped…it looked abandoned,” he continued. “In situations such as this, you might have a medical emergency. Someone may have been out there fishing, had a heart attack and perhaps collapsed onto the deck. My experience has taught me that anytime you see what appears to be an abandoned vessel and no movement aboard something could be wrong…. It gives you cause to look a little closer,” Broadas said. And look closer Broadus and his shipmates did. While the two the other watch standers (OS Laws and AB Beck) directed their attention to the small boat, Broudas briefed Third Officer Jacob who in turn called Capt. Robert Wiley, the Guadalupe master, to the bridge. After assessing the situation, Wiley directed his third officer to take the vessel in for a closer look. Just as the Guadalupe’s search lights were switched on, however, the suspicious boat took off at full speed headed offshore, still with no lights. Captain Wiley immediately called the Coast Guard and apprised them of what Broudas had observed and the boat’s odd behavior. Wiley was told that earlier in the evening, a commercial commuter pilot had alerted the Joint Harbor Operations Center of a suspicious boat transiting near San Clemente Island. The Coast Guard asked Wiley and his crew to follow and track the boat, maintain radar contact and keep them updated on its location. Wiley complied and some 90 minutes later, a Coast Guard Cutter arrived at the Guadalupe’s location. Its crew informed Wiley that this was the boat that they had been searching for. Shortly thereafter, an MH-60 Jayhawk helicopter joined the cutter and the suspicious boat was stopped. At that point, the Guadalupe departed the scene with the crew feeling positive about having been able to help the Coast Guard. They wondered, however, about exactly what it was that they had done and its implications. They did not have to wait very long to find out. An early morning phone call from the Coast Guard to the Guadalupe confirmed that Broadus’ initial suspicions about the boat were well founded and right on mark. Upon seizing the boat, the Coast Guard team took two individuals into custody and discovered 1,200 pounds of marijuana on board. The Guadalupe’s boat chase also was credited for playing a role in another positive development. The following morning, Customs and Border Protection officials and the Coast Guard seized another boat in the vicinity as it was fleeing to the south. Two suspects were apprehended and officials later recovered 21 bales of marijuana that the smugglers had jettisoned during the pursuit. Meanwhile, Broadus and the crew of the Guadalupe began to receive recognition for their actions. “The crew tracked the vessel until Maritime Unified Command assets were able to arrive on scene and seize the suspect vessel, which was found to be smuggling illegal drugs,” wrote Coast Guard Capt. Sean Mahoney in a message sent on behalf of the U.S. Coast Guard San Diego Sector. “This kind of outstanding operational success does not just happen, but is the result of sharp, diligent personnel and great cooperation.” Broadus, a Navy veteran who received his civilian maritime training at MSC-affiliated schools in New Jersey, was grateful for the accolades he and his shipmates received, but insisted that he and his fellow watch standers did nothing out of the ordinary. According to him, watch standers are alert at all times; they commence each watch with the intent of identifying something that is out of the ordinary, but most of the time they see nothing remarkable. “Everything involving the boat took place about a half-hour to 45 (minutes) after sunset,” Broadus said. “Sure, it was dark, but when you’ve been out there as long as I have, you still don’t miss much.” During his career he has sailed on a host of MSC-operated and SIU-contracted vessels including the Diamond State and Cape Lambert, which transported military equipment to Kuwait. “My experience as a seaman enables me to be able to look on the water and see things that the average person would not notice,” Broadus concluded. “We [watch standers] have a certain way that we look at the horizon with binoculars. We take our time and carefully scan the area being certain not to overlook anything out of the ordinary.” Editor’s note: Megan Patrick of the MSC Public Affairs Office contributed to this report. The Seafarers-crewed Guadalupe conducts routine operations in the U.S. 3rd Fleet area of responsibility. (U.S. Navy photo) CIVMARS (left to right) OS Travis Laws, AB Frederick Beck, AB Batiste Broadus and Third Officer John Jacob stand aboard the Guadalupe in front of the San Diego skyline in July. These four CIVMARs were on watch June 30 when Broadus spotted the suspicious boat. (U.S. Navy photo) The U.S. Coast Guard found 1,200 pounds of marijuana aboard a suspicious boat that Broadus spotted and reported, as well as a nearly equal amount in a similar boat seized a short time after. (U.S. Coast Guard photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Henry Dunphy) � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Seafarers Log Issues 2010-2019 Description An account of the resource Volumes LXXII-LXXXI of the Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Seafarers Log Digital Copies Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 2010-2019 Document A resource containing textual data. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre text. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource September 2011 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES WATERMAN REFLAGGING CARGO SHIP ‘ICE CLASS’ VESSEL WILL SAIL UNDER STARS AND STRIPES SIU BOATMEN WELCOME NEW OSG TUG, BARGE SEAFARERS STAND IN SOLIDARITY WITH CWA, IBEW WORKERS AT VEIZON WATERMAN FLAGGED IN CARGO SHIP MORE PROGRESS IN CMPI TO NEGOTIATIONS SIU SUPPORTS CWA, IBEW MEMBERS SEALAND COMET RESCUES YACHTSMAN STRANDED IN PACIFIC PINEY POINT PROJECT ‘MOVING RIGHT ALONG; SUPPORT GROWS OF ‘SOS’ CAMPAIGN INTERNATIONAL BARGAINING FORUM REACHES 3 YEAR ARGUMENT RETIRED ILA PRESIDENT BOWERS DIES AT 88 UNION, SCHOOL, SIU CONTRACTED COMPANIES HELP LEAD TE WAY FOR MILITARY VETERANS SIU EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT LANDS APPOINTMENT FROM DOT STARLIGHT MARINE CREWS APPROVE NEW CONTRACT AMO AGREEMENT EXTENDED ON LAKES U.S. MERCHANT MARINE’S VALIANT HISTORY, MODE HIGHLIGHTED AT CEREMONY ITF INSPECTOR: ‘I’M PROUD TO BE AN AMERICAN’ FEATHERED FERRY PASSENGER UNEXPECTED BUT WELCOME FIRST VOYAGE TO SEA- WORLD WAR II BYRD COMPLETES HISTORIC VISIT TO VIETNAM PORT SHBP ENROLLMENT-BENEFICIARY CARDS SCENES FROM IN AND AROUND THE PORT OF JACKSONVILLE SIU CIVMARS SUPPORT VARIOUS MISSIONS CIVMAR CREW’S DILIGENCE, EXPERIENCE PAY OFF Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Seafarers Log Digital Copies Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 09/01/2011 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Newsprint Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context Vol. 73, No. 9 2011 Periodicals Seafarers Log http://www.seafarerslog.org/archives/files/original/f69c252ce2b6028acdb1a03f65cd371b.pdf 383d0bd8e16c358bf4697f1c17d59b1f PDF Text Text Volume 73, Number 10 October 2011 Crowley Adds Another State-of-the-Art ATB The final addition to Crowley’s 650-series of articulated tug-barges (ATBs) recently was delivered in Pascagoula, Miss. The Seafarers-contracted Vision/650-10 (below) will sail in the Jones Act trade, transporting petroleum products between U.S. West Coast ports. Page 3. U.S. Navy Christens First JHSV The USNS Spearhead (below), the first of 10 U.S. Navy joint high-speed vessels (JHSVs) in a class being built for rapid intra-theater transport of troops and materiel, was christened last month in Mobile, Ala. The 338-foot ship will be crewed in the unlicensed positions by members of the SIU Government Services Division. In this photo, the catamaran is readied for its mid-September christening. Page 3. (U.S. Navy photo Courtesy Austal USA) USNS Comfort Completes 5-Month Mission The Seafarers-crewed hospital ship USNS Comfort (far right in photo at right) recently wrapped up a five-month humanitarian mission dubbed Operation Continuing Promise. The ship called on nine countries in Central and South America and the Caribbean, providing medical treatment to nearly 68,000 people. In the photo at right, family and friends look on as the ship arrives at Naval Station Norfolk, Va., on Sept 2. Pages 12-13. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Rafael Martie). Seafarers Continue Tradition Members Enjoy Giving Back to Community through ‘Annual Paint Tacoma’ Endeavor SIU members earlier this year volunteered for the annual Paint TacomaPierce (Wash.) Beautiful project, marking the fifth straight year Seafarers have participated in the community-service endeavor. In the photo above, Recertified Bosun Darryl Smith (left) and AB Raul Molina help brighten the appearance of a local residence. Page 24. Anti-Piracy Efforts Page 2 66657_Seafarers_X.indd 1 Advisory Board Meets Page 4 Photos and More from Puerto Rico Page 6 9/27/2011 6:55:58 AM �President’s Report Saluting a Leader and Friend No one becomes commander of the United States Transportation Command without being exceptional in the first place, but even by that standard, there is something special about General Duncan McNabb. General McNabb is scheduled to retire in mid-October, capping a distinguished military career that has included commanding TRANSCOM for the past three years. I truly feel privileged not only to have worked with the General, but also to have gotten to know him very well. And I can say without reservation that General McNabb absolutely, positively values the women and men of the U.S. Merchant Marine. As the leader of TRANSCOM – which oversees the Military Sealift Command and other military agencies – General McNabb has been intensely focused on protecting and properly equipping our troops. I’ve heard a number of his presentations describing in detail TRANSCOM’s operations. And while those tasks are predictably complex, they really boil down to putting our troops, with the materiel they need, in the best posMichael Sacco sible positions to succeed in their missions, as safely and quickly as possible. The General understands and appreciates the critical role of the U.S. Merchant Marine as our nation’s fourth arm of defense. He repeatedly has gone above and beyond in promoting a strong American-flag, American-crewed fleet, including during multiple testimonies before Congress and also including efforts to help safeguard our crews by combatting piracy. I also have to say – and I don’t care if it sounds corny – General McNabb cares about the individuals who sail our ships. His planning involves budgets and charts and graphs and other numbers, but he never loses sight of the individuals who support our troops. He also has been very appreciative of our industry as a whole, including the American-flag operators who are so crucial to making sure the men and women in our armed forces get the materiel they need, wherever and whenever they need it. Don’t get me wrong, I have worked with many great commanders of TRANSCOM over the years. And I look forward to working with General McNabb’s successor. But the General has proven his friendship and understanding time and time again. General, it has been a few years since I was in the U.S. Air Force, but I still know how to salute – and on the occasion of your retirement, I salute you with great respect and fondness. You’re a true leader, a class act and a tremendous ally, and I appreciate everything you’ve done for our industry these past three years. Congratulations on a job well done. New Tonnage Even as the rough economic times continue, we are bringing new tonnage into different segments of the SIU-contracted fleet. This month, we’re reporting on a new Crowley ATB, a newly reflagged Maersk tanker, and the first of the Navy’s joint high-speed vessels or JHSVs, the latter of which means new work for members of the SIU Government Services Division. More good news is on the horizon. As this edition neared press time, Maersk Line, Limited announced it will be flagging in two heavy-lift ships later this year. And, the inland division of Overseas Shipholding Group was accepting a brand new, state-of-the-art tugboat. A couple of other flag-ins are in the works, too. Our members understand that new ships and replacement vessels don’t materialize out of thin air. It takes grassroots action and industry-wide cooperation to make it happen. It also requires confidence on the parts of those vessel and tug operators that they will be able to man them with qualified, responsible crews, and that’s where you, the rank-and-file Seafarer come in. Your professionalism and reliability are a big part of the equation. I thank you for your dependability and I encourage you to keep upgrading at our affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. We’re feeling the tough times like everyone else, but we’ve still got a bright future. Volume 73, Number 10 October 2011 The SIU online: www.seafarers.org The Seafarers LOG (ISSN 1086-4636) is published monthly by the Seafarers International Union; Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU, AFLCIO; 5201 Auth Way; Camp Springs, MD 20746. Telephone (301) 899-0675. Periodicals postage paid at Southern Maryland 20790-9998. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to the Seafarers LOG, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. Communications Director, Jordan Biscardo; Managing Editor/Production, Jim Guthrie; Assistant Editor, Paddy Lehane; Photographers, Mike Hickey and Harry Gieske; Administrative Support, Misty Dobry. Copyright © 2011 Seafarers International Union, AGLIWD. All Rights Reserved. The Seafarers International Union engaged an environmentally friendly printer for the production of this newspaper. 2 Seafarers LOG 66657_Seafarers_X.indd 2 Department of Transportation Honors Service of Merchant Mariners on 9/11 The heroism of U.S. Merchant Mariners – including SIU members – who evacuated hundreds of thousands of people from Lower Manhattan after the Sept. 11, 2001 terrorist attacks is featured in a new video released last month by the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Maritime Administration. “Rescue at Water’s Edge” includes interviews with vessel operators, emergency responders and passengers. “The story of merchant mariners coming to the aid of those in need on September 11, 2001 is an inspiring one,” said U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood. “On that terrible day, our nation’s seafarers, with courage and selflessness, transported hundreds of thousands of people out of harm’s way to safety.” More than 300,000 people were evacuated by water from lower Manhattan after the terrorist attacks in the largest unplanned water evacuation in the history of the United States. SIU members working aboard NY Waterway passenger ferries helped evacuate more than 160,000 people. “The men and women of the New York and New Jersey merchant maritime community provided a beacon of light on one of the darkest days in our country’s history. They were among the heroes running toward danger and exemplify what it means to be a U.S. merchant mariner,” said U.S. Maritime Administrator David Matsuda. The video may be accessed directly on YouTube, on the Maritime Administration web site (www.dot. org) and on the SIU website (www.seafarers.org). Also very much worth viewing is a separate piece titled “BOATLIFT, An Untold Tale of 9/11 Resilience.” That video, which also features SIU members, is narrated by Tom Hanks and was produced by Stephen Flynn and Sean Burke. It premiered Sept. 8 at the 9/11 Tenth Anniversary Summit: Remembrance/ Renewal/Resilience in Washington, D.C. The Summit aimed to kick off a national movement to foster community and national resilience in the face of future crises. Bill Aims to Toughen Anti-Piracy Measures U.S. Rep. Frank LoBiondo (R-N.J.), chairman of the House Subcommittee on Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation, has introduced an important and long-awaited piece of legislation that, if passed, will serve to solidify and strengthen the United States’ position on piracy. The legislation has made it through committee, one of the first steps on the way to becoming law. The bill, dubbed the Piracy Suppression Act of 2011, will pave the way for the U.S. government, its armed forces, and merchant mariners themselves, to take a more proactive and aggressive stance against the acts of piracy. The bill was co-sponsored by House Transportation Committee Chairman John Mica (RFla.). “[The bill] protects American seafarers and property, enhances the legal tools available to prosecutors, provides incentives to other nations to suppress piracy, and examines ways to better track pirate finances,” said LoBiondo. The bill strengthens existing anti-piracy legislation in addition to adding government-funded provisions to help mariners prepare themselves to avoid, defend, and survive potential attacks by pirates. One of the more notable aspects of the bill is the requirement that the Department of Transportation will take an active role in training and educating members of the U.S. Merchant Marine about the dangers of piracy and how to combat it. In addition to providing mariners with the locations of known pirate danger zones, DOT would teach all deep-sea mariners defensive tactics to use against pirates and provide training with equipment used to deter attacks. The bill also makes provisions for when the worst does occur. If a ship is attacked and deadly force is used in defense of the vessel, the bill proposes a standard set of rules that will properly define a crew member’s right to defend himself and his or her shipmates. The bill also calls for a Coast Guard-sponsored instruction on the safe use of firearms. (Governmentapproved small arms training already is available at the Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md.). In the case of pirates captured after an attack, a point of frustration is the difficulty in prosecuting them. This bill would make capital punishment an option for those who engage in an act of piracy against a U.S. ship. The proposed legislation also would ensure that certain government cargo carried by civilian ships will be protected by armed guards either provided by U.S. armed forces or through private guards that the companies will be reimbursed for. The bill is welcome news to members of the maritime industry, particularly civilian mariners whose jobs carrying important cargo involve them running the risk of attack on a regular basis. The SIU sees this bill as the beginning of progress. “A major complaint from the maritime industry has been centered on the menace of piracy and the lack of decisive action being taken by many governments to seriously combat it,” said SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel, who also serves as chairman of the International Transport Workers’ Federation Seafarers’ Section. “In addition to making sure that U.S.-flag ships are protected, the bill further provides for reimbursement from a foreign-flag vessel for actions taken to protect their vessels from piracy. There is no rational reason why U.S. taxpayers should provide protection services for nations failing to protect vessels that fly its flag. This bill is a step in the right direction.” Maritime Unions’ Message to U.S. State Department: Don’t Reward Indolent Flag States in Piracy Fight Four American maritime unions have urged the U.S. Department of State not to follow the recommendation of an international shipping group that advocated using UN military guards to fight shipboard piracy. In a mid-September letter to Donna Leigh Hopkins, Coordinator, Piracy & Maritime Security, U.S. Department of State, SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel spelled out the severe pitfalls of a recent proposal by a group known as the Round Table of international shipping associations. Heindel also serves as chair of the Seafarers’ Section of the International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF). He wrote on behalf of the SIU and three other unions: the American Maritime Officers (AMO); Masters, Mates and Pilots (MM&P); and Marine Engineers’ Beneficial Association (MEBA). After pointing out that many members of those respective unions sail in pirate-infested waters near Somalia and farther out in the Indian Ocean, Heindel observed that the Round Table recently asked the United Nations to establish a “UN Force of Armed Military Guards” for deployment aboard merchant ships. “We oppose the use of UN forces in this fight because, quite simply, it rewards flag-of-convenience states that make no effort to protect crews working on vessels flying their flags,” Heindel wrote. “In particular, most if not all of the so-called flag-of-convenience or runaway flags have either made woefully inadequate attempts to combat piracy, or they’ve made none at all. The burden of dealing with pirates is being borne by the seafarers themselves, ship operators and a few nations – including the United States – and the task of actually prosecuting pirates by even fewer. The failure of flag-of-convenience states to exercise their jurisdiction against pirates who have attacked vessels flying their flag is totally unacceptable by the world’s seafarers and should be by those that employ and regulate us.” He continued, “In that light, the Round Table’s proposal amounts to saddling American taxpayers with paying to protect the flag-of-convenience scheme. Put another way, their proposal equates to having others pay to fight piracy while the absent flag states rake in profits from much of the world’s fleet without meeting any of the obligations as a proper flag state. In our opinion, their failure to act thus far has contributed to the death of more than sixty seafarers. ...” Finally, Heindel noted that the aforementioned unions as well as the ITF support many of the concerns expressed by the Round Table. “However, they missed the mark on this proposal.” October 2011 9/27/2011 6:56:05 AM �Crowley Accepts Delivery of ATB Vision/650-10 Jones Act Vessel Ready to Deliver Petroleum Products on West Coast Crowley Maritime Corporation’s Vision/650-10, the last of 10 articulated tugbarges (ATBs) in the 650-series new-build program, was delivered in late August by V.T. Halter Marine in Pascagoula, Miss. According to SIU-contracted Crowley, the ATB is entering service and will transport petroleum products between U.S. West Coast ports. The Vision/650-10, which has a capacity of 185,000 barrels, will be operated by Crowley’s petroleum services group. In announcing the delivery, Crowley reported that the new ATB “incorporates many unique features, including a fixedtank cleaning system, complete cargo heating system and the ability to carry EZ chemicals.” “Crowley is committed to providing safe and reliable petroleum transportation in Jones Act trades,” said Crowley’s Rob Grune, senior vice president and general manager, petroleum services. “This class has a long history of safe petroleum transportation and offers compelling economics and exceptional performance.” The 650-class barges are 27,000 deadweight tons, 587 feet in length, 74 feet in breadth and 40 feet in depth. When coupled for operation the tug and tank vessel measure 689 feet. The fully loaded draft is 30 feet. The new ATBs feature the latest systems technology and double-hull construction for maximum safety and reliability. The barge 650-10, like its SIU-crewed sister vessels (650-1 through 650-9), is also certified by the American Bureau of Shipping (ABS) to comply with the international maritime environmental Green Passport program. “All of Crowley’s ATBs are built under the ABS SafeHull program for environmental protection,” the company added. “This program puts the vessel design through an exhaustive review to identify structural loads and strengthen the vessel structure.” The newest ATB, like the others in its class, features an electrically driven cargo pump in each of the 14 cargo tanks to assure maximum cargo integrity and segregation flexibility; two anchor windlasses and associated equipment to enable the vessel to accommodate offshore mooring operations; and a vacuum system with three retention tanks to easily handle cargo changes. There is also a dual mode inert gas system and vapor collection system for maximum safety. An enhanced mooring system features 1,000-foot Spectra-type lines on split drums with a highspeed recovery rate of 100 feet per minute. The tugs in this series are fitted with a foam-capable fire monitor. According to Crowley, the communication and navigation equipment is among the most technologically advanced in the industry today. Besides the 650 class, three larger, Jones Act-qualified ATBs, known as the 750 class, which will each have 330,000 barrels of capacity, are under construction for Crowley, the first of which is scheduled for delivery later this year. Ceremony Set for New Maersk Ship The USNS Spearhead is prepped for its mid-September christening in Mobile, Ala. The 338-footlong aluminum catamaran and its sister ships are designed to be fast, flexible and maneuverable even in shallow waters, making them ideal for transporting troops and equipment quickly within a theater of operations. (U.S. Navy photo Courtesy Austal USA) A naming ceremony for the Seafarers-contracted Maersk Peary (above and below) was scheduled for Sept. 30 in Norfolk, Va., too late for this edition. As previously reported, the ice-class tanker, built in 2004, has been reflagged under the Stars and Stripes and is being renamed in honor of the late U.S. Navy Admiral Robert Peary. Additional coverage is planned for the next LOG. Navy’s First Joint High-Speed Vessel Christened The USNS Spearhead, the first of the Navy’s joint high-speed vessels designed for rapid intra-theater transport of troops and military equipment, was christened Sept. 17 during a ceremony at Austal USA in Mobile, Ala. The vessel will be crewed in the unlicensed positions by members of the SIU Government Services Division. It is owned and will be operated by the U.S. Military Sealift Command. “USNS Spearhead and her MSC crew will be indispensable as they perform critical logistics and fleet support missions around the world,” said Rear Adm. Mark H. Buzby, MSC commander, during his address at to an audience of more than 1,200 people including leaders from the military services, Congress and the maritime industry. Alabama Senator Jeff Sessions (R) was the ceremony’s principal speaker. Retired Army Chief Warrant Officer 4 Kenneth Wahlman is the ship’s sponsor. His daughter Catherine, a staff sergeant in the Army Reserve Officer Training Corps at Virginia Tech, broke the traditional bottle of champagne across the bow to formally christen the ship. The 338-foot-long aluminum catamarans are designed to be fast, flexible and maneuverable, even in shallow waters, making them ideal for transporting troops and equipment quickly within a theater of operations. “Flexibility may the best attribute of this ship,” said civilian Capt. Douglas D. Casavant Jr., the Spearhead’s civil service master, who has been sailing with MSC for 22 years. “Our 20,000-square-foot mission bay area can be October 2011 66657_Seafarers_X.indd 3 reconfigured to quickly adapt to whatever mission we are tasked with – for instance carrying containerized portable hospitals to support disaster relief or transporting tanks and troops.” According to MSC, the JHSVs are capable of transporting 600 short tons of military troops, vehicles, supplies and equipment 1,200 nautical miles at an average speed of 35 knots and can operate in shallow-draft, bare-bones ports and waterways, providing U.S. forces added mobility and flexibility. The JHSVs’ aviation flight decks can support day and night flight operations. Each JHSV also has sleeping accommodations for up to 146 personnel and airline-style seating for up to 312. Following acceptance trials, delivery to the Navy and operational testing, the Spearhead will be based in Little Creek, Va., and is expected to begin conducting missions for the Navy in the first quarter of fiscal year 2013. The Navy honored the ship’s original U.S. Army-chosen name and sponsor after the decision earlier this year to transfer five JHSVs first slated to be owned and operated by the Army to the Navy. The Navy’s current contract with Austal is for the construction of 10 JHSVs, three of which are yet-to-be awarded construction options. The first four of the 10 currently under contract – including the Spearhead – will be crewed by federally employed civil service mariners, while the next six are slated to be crewed by civilian mariners working for private companies under contract to MSC. Military mission personnel will embark as required by the mission sponsors. SHBP Releases Updated Guide For Active Members As previously reported, an updated version of the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan (SHBP) guide for active members is available in PDF format on the SIU web site, www.seafarers.org. The guide is posted in the “Member Benefits” section. From there, click on the Seafarers Benefits Plan tab and then the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan tab. The link to the updated guide is on the SHBP page. Seafarers LOG 3 9/27/2011 6:56:08 AM �Michael Sacco SIU President David Heindel SIU Secretary-Treasurer George Tricker SIU VP Contracts Advisory Board Meets in Piney Point The SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education hosted an array of major shipping company representatives, members of the Center’s board of trustees, representatives of government agencies, union officials and others on Sept. 14. The occasion was the 40th Paul Hall Center Advisory Board meeting; attendees discussed a wide variety of issues concerning the maritime industry, partly in an effort to identify how the school can improve its curriculums to continue producing some of the besttrained workers at sea. “When it comes to maritime training, this school can do it all,” said SIU President Michael Sacco in his opening remarks. “There are Coast Guard- and MSC-approved courses both here at the school and we can also teach those classes out in the ports and aboard ships. We recruit students from all over this country, and we have hundreds and even thousands of upgraders who come back here for advanced training throughout the year. I hope that [everyone in attendance] will continue to think of both the SIU and the Paul Hall Center as your partners.” Representing the union at the day-long meeting were President Sacco, SecretaryTreasurer David Heindel, Vice President Contracts George Tricker, Vice President Atlantic Coast Joseph Soresi, Vice President Great Lakes and Inland Waters Tom Orzechowski, Vice President Government Services Kermett Mangram, Vice President Gulf Coast Dean Corgey and Assistant Vice President West Coast Nick Celona. The meeting kicked off with Coast Guard J.C. Wiegman Director of Training Paul Hall Center 4 Seafarers LOG 66657_Seafarers_X.indd 4 Division Chief of the Mariner Credentialing Program Policy Division of the Office of Vessel Activities Luke Harden, who talked about the structure of the Coast Guard credential service and some of the nuances of processing mariner credentials. The Coast Guard handles many issues important to civilian mariners and their credentials, including drafting appeals, STCW oversight, and outreach to explain what’s happening with credentials applications, denials, and appeals. Harden also addressed some of the general complaints about the Coast Guard credentialing services and the medical advisory committee. He made it clear that policy changes are needed and that they are, indeed, forthcoming. For example, some safety manuals contain outdated and sometimes irrelevant information and it’s clear to many in the industry that they haven’t been altered for years. The Coast Guard, according to Harden, needs new policies. “When we finish developing our policy, we’re going to makes sure the public knows about it,” said Harden. “We want the people that these changes will affect to be able to comment on it.” Robert Smith, chief of the Mariner Training and Assessment Division at the National Maritime Center (NMC), pointed out that having a well-trained workforce is essential to allowing commerce on the seas to flow. “When I started, we had 600-foot-long vessels with a 42-man crew,” said Smith. “We could have a person not up to speed and people could pitch in to help that individual catch up. Today, we’ve got some vessels that are 1,200 feet with crews of maybe a dozen. The state of the industry makes it an obligation to train and provide qualified people.” The NMC also is in the process of setting up a database with data from all the courses from all affiliated maritime schools. Having a mariner’s training history in a centralized location will make it easier for workers and management alike to be able to access information in case of lost transcripts or other unforeseeable incidents, as well as ease the credentialing process. Smith said that streamlining the credentialing process is a major concern for the NMC and one that they rank high on their list of priorities. “Our job is to help companies and mariners fully understand their credentials and regulations,” said Smith. J.C. Wiegman, director of training at the Paul Hall Center, discussed some of the potential effects of the Manila amendments to the STCW Convention and how the school is preparing for them. Wiegman pointed out that the school, as well as the U.S. maritime industry in general, is ahead of the curve and plans to continue that trend well into the future. U.S. Military Sealift Command (MSC) Director of Training Kyrm Hickman was on hand to commend the SIU and the Paul Hall Center for their excellent work and reliability in helping the United States military in times of need. Hickman also talked about the state of the MSC fleet and the 10 new high-speed vessels that are set to be built. (The first vessel’s christening took place Sept. 17 in Mobile, Ala.) The first four of those ships will be crewed by members of the Government Services Division. Anne Wehde, the director of the Office of Maritime Workforce Development of the U.S. Maritime Administration, spoke about the importance of boosting the industry’s profile and reaching out to a new generation of potential maritime workers. Wehde’s talk dealt with an educational concept called STEM, which stands for science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. An emphasis on teaching these skills to students of all ages is something that is not only important to the economic recovery at large, but is also paramount to the success of the maritime industry as well. Along that vein, Wehde discussed programs that serve to expose more and more people to the maritime industry. One of them is an Adopt-a-Ship program, which allows schools and classes to “adopt” a vessel, visit it, and learn about its functions, its uses, and the technology behind it. The aim behind the program is to make a relatively low-profile industry more visible, thus getting more people interested in pursuing a career as a merchant mariner. “We really are one of the best kept secrets out there,” Wehde said. “But we’ve got to start getting people involved at a younger age, with the right skills and the right training, to make sure that the maritime industry can continue on long into the future.” Kyrm Hickman U.S. Military Sealift Command Luke Harden U.S. Coast Guard Continued on next page Anne Wehde, U.S. Maritime Administration October 2011 9/27/2011 6:56:13 AM �Bipartisan Letter Criticizes Waivers of Jones Act MTD Also Strongly Weighs In on Recent Use of Foreign Vessels Legislators from both sides of the aisle recently spoke out in support of a vital maritime law called the Jones Act, as did the Maritime Trades Department (MTD), AFL-CIO. In late August, a joint letter criticizing recent waivers of the Jones Act was sent to the White House by Sen. Mary Landrieu (D-La.), Sen. David Vitter (RLa.) and Reps. Charles Boustany (R-La.), Elijah Cummings (D-Md.), Peter King (RN.Y.), Candice Miller (R-Mich.), Bennie Thompson (D-Miss.), and Pete Visclosky (D-Ind.). Specifically, the letter condemned the administration’s use of foreign vessels to transport crude oil within the United States during the ongoing Strategic Petroleum Reserve (SPR) drawdown. The letter urges the use of domestic vessels and mariners – as required in the Jones Act – in order to create jobs and improve the economy here at home. “We strongly urge the administration to end the practice of waiving the Jones Act for SPR oil distribution and handing American jobs to foreign shipping companies,” the letter reads. “The rash of recent waivers, exacerbated by a lack of transparency in the decision-making process, represents a stain on the administration’s determined effort to create jobs and improve the economy here at home, and it should therefore be rectified immediately.” In a news release announcing the letter, Sen. Landrieu’s office wrote, “The 90-year-old Jones Act requires the use of American vessels and American seafarers when moving cargo between two points in the United States. Since President Obama’s decision in June to release oil from the SPR, the administration has waived the Jones Act 46 times – despite the fact that U.S. vessels are ready and available to transport the oil.” According to the letter, “The administration’s current policy provides jobs to foreign seafarers while American seafarers stand by ready to help. In waiving the Jones Act, the Maritime Administration apparently has determined that no American ships are ‘available.’ We would appreciate your assistance in understanding why U.S. vessels that are in the full-time commercial business of transporting oil, are far more experienced in coastline movements of oil than any foreign flag operators, exceed the barrel capacity as defined by the DOE, are owned, controlled and operated by Americans, are not considered ‘avail- able.’ ” In their letter, Sen. Landrieu and the other signees note that the administration will waive the Jones Act more times since the June SPR release than in all previous administrations combined over the entire 90-year history of the federal law. They also criticized the administration’s “lack of transparency” in conducting these Jones Act waivers, saying that “at the very least, the American shipping industry is owed an explanation as to why their vessels are being declared unavailable.” Meanwhile, the MTD said it is “shocked, disappointed and outraged by recent waivers of the Jones Act that have allowed foreign-flag, foreign-crewed vessels to transport oil from the U.S. Strategic Petroleum Reserve. These waivers … have been issued despite the ample availability of American-flag tankers and barges with well-trained, highly qualified American citizen crews.” The MTD joined with the U.S.-flag maritime industry to overturn a blanket waiver of the Jones Act when the White House announced in June its intention to release oil from the reserves. Within 24 hours, the blanket waiver was retracted. However, the Department of Energy re- wrote the specifics regarding how the oil was to be sold, thereby all but eliminating any participation by any tanker or barge flying the U.S. flag. The Jones Act is a vital law that helps sustain nearly 500,000 American jobs while protecting U.S. national and economic security. It helps maintain a pool of well-trained, loyal, U.S. citizen seafarers who are available to sail aboard American military support vessels that deliver vital materiel to our troops. For example, thousands of U.S. civilian mariners sailed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom, and many continue sailing in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. Further, the Jones Act pumps billions of dollars into the U.S. economy each year while requiring that cargo moving between U.S. ports is carried aboard vessels that are built, owned, crewed and flagged American. That economic infusion includes more than $11 billion in federal, state and local taxes. Most other industrialized nations have similar laws. The MTD is a constitutional department of the AFL-CIO. Its 23 international unions (including the SIU) and 21 port maritime councils in the United States and Canada represent more than 5 million members. STCW Amendments, Credentialing Among Meeting’s Main Topics Continued from Page 4 SIU Secretary-Treasurer Heindel gave a presentation that outlined the many useful and important features of the Seafarers Management Information System (SMIS). SMIS is database used by members, the union, and companies to upload and access important information, including seatime, credentials and documentation, contact information, ratings and others. Heindel drove home the significance of having a well-maintained and updated system for Seafarers. A lot of this responsibility lies with the companies, who have details about sign-ons and sign-offs, total days on, and other important factors that play a vital role in the day-to-day lives of Seafarers and their families. “It’s important that we have the data to make sure that our members are taken care of in terms of health benefits for their families and vacation time, to name a few,” said Heindel. “The more diligence that company people put in to updating SMIS, the better it is for our members.” Wiegman announced that a new program is in the works that will hopefully be ready for introduction into the course catalog by early next year. The 3rd assistant engineer program is a step above the current junior engineer program (in fact, that program is a prerequisite for this new class). The new program will introduce two new courses: Engine Room Resource Management and Watchkeeping Operational Level. Following the individual presentations, participants split up into working groups that dealt with various issues, including the electrician’s apprentice program at the school and suggestions for improvements in galley operations. After the groups met, the general meeting reconvened and the recommendations were read aloud to all. The electrician’s apprentice program group came up with several suggestions for the school and companies to consider. They included standardizing the pay scale for apprentices, further opening channels for the company and SIU manpower office to communicate about the progress of apprentices, as well as potential candidates for the program. Tricker spoke on behalf of the galley operations group. One suggestion was that real-time schedule training be introduced for steward department upgraders and trainees. The rationale is that working under the lengthy hours that steward department members operate under in training will better prepare chief cooks, stewards, and SAs to hit the ground running when they return to work. In addition, Tricker and the committee recommended that the school should add inventory training to ensure that steward department members are more accustomed to the “first in, first out” system of inventory management. Finally, the group recommended that more focus be put on supply counts on individual items. The meeting concluded with many leaving with a sense of satisfaction and productivity, and the proceedings have school officials looking forward to the months and years to come. “The partnership that has been forged between our contracted companies, the Coast Guard, MSC, MarAd and the Paul Hall Center to provide a forum to identify future training October 2011 66657_Seafarers_X.indd 5 concerns and form committees to solve these problems creates a unique working relationship,” said Wiegman. “Some of the past advisory boards resolved the concerns that many had dealing with a wide variety of changes to the industry. This year the Manila Convention was a topic of concern and solutions were presented. Over the upcoming months, subcommittees will report back and we will move forward with implementation.” In addition to the SIU officials and speakers, attendees included John Mason of ASTI; Bart Rogers, manpower director for the SIU; Len Becicka of TE Subcom; Dave Schultze of Keystone; Lois Stephenson of ASTI; D.J. Kurz of Keystone; Jody Schafenstein of Crescent Towing; Allison Brett of Maersk Line, Limited; Bob Rodgers of Interocean American Shipping; Dave Robinson of Tactical Intelligence International; Giglia Moldovan of Liberty Maritime; Lynette Pagan of US Shipping; Jack Craft of Crowley; Niels Aalund of the West Gulf Maritime Association; Rich Fellone of Maersk Line, Limited; Brad Wheeler of ASTI; John Plitnih of MSC; Lydia D’Antoni of Pacific Gulf Marine; Patty Finsterbusch of Keystone; John Pathwick of 3PSC; Michael Devany of NOAA; Jonathan Mendes of Starlight Marine; Steve Huttman of G&H Towing; Ed Hanley of Maersk Line, Limited; Mitch Oakley of ASTI; Bill Eglinton of the SIU; Eddie Pinner of Crescent Towing; Bill Cole of the Alaska Tanker Company; Carol Berry of Ocean Ships, Inc.; Melissa Clark of Interocean American Shipping; John Walls of Harley Marine; Judith Pajerowski of OSG; Mike Bohlman of Horizon Lines; Sara Breed of Maersk Line, Limited; Jeff Parker of Allied Transportation; Meredith Law of Allied Transportation; Tony Naccarato of Crowley; Michael Mason of ASTI; Stacey McNeely of ASTI; and Dale Rausch of ASTI. SIU Executive Vice President Augie Tellez, advisory board chairman, was unable to attend due to his participation in the National Defense Transportation Association Forum and related Military Sealift Committee meeting in Phoenix. Supporting Senate Candidate SIU VP West Coast Nick Marrone (right) is pictured at a recent event in Hawaii with U.S. Rep. Mazie Hirono (DHawaii) (second from right), U.S. Sen. Daniel Inouye (D-Hawaii) and the senator’s wife, Irene. The dinner was in support of Rep. Hirono, who recently received an SIU endorsement in her candidacy for the United States Senate. Seafarers LOG 5 9/27/2011 6:56:15 AM �Upgraders from Puerto Rico Say School is Career Gateway Seafarers Cite Opportunities Available Through Union, Paul Hall Center Several Seafarers from Puerto Rico recently credited both the union and its affiliated school in Piney Point, Md., for providing noteworthy career opportunities. Reflecting on why they each travelled from their native commonwealth to the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, the members said Piney Point and the SIU offer solid chances to get ahead. “Coming to this school and joining the SIU changed my life completely,” said Jose Burgos, 24, a steward department member who graduated from the unlicensed apprentice program in 2009. “I’ve been able to support my family and it has also been fun.” One of approximately 200 Seafarers who call Puerto Rico home, Burgos, a Ponce native, added, “Economically, I’m way better off than before. I keep upgrading and hopefully I’ll be able to come back. Overall, it’s just been wonderful. Seeing different countries and cultures has been awesome.” Fellow steward department member Jesus Pacheco, 34, who hails from Vega Baja, shared a similar outlook. “I’ve had good success since I joined the union (in 2008),” he said. “I’ve made the most of the opportunities and I’m going to continue learning here at the Paul Hall Center. This is a good facility – the instructors, the staff. You’ve just got to be ready to work.” Founded in 1967, the school features more than 70 U.S. Coast Guard-approved courses. In addition to providing entry-level and advanced vocational training, the school also offers academic support and a state-certified program through which students may earn a high school diploma. Additionally, the Paul Hall Center offers twoyear college degrees. “All the resources we need for success in this career are put in your hands,” observed Humacao native and QMED Linarys Castillo, 34, who joined in 2006. “I think it’s great. It has meant everything to me.” Oiler Victor Rios, 40, joined in 1999. He started sail- These Seafarers who are natives of Puerto Rico recently praised the union and its affiliated school in Piney Point, Md., for providing worthy career opportunities. OctoberPuertoRicoUpgraders.tif ing in the steward department before switching to the engine department. “Everybody who has an opportunity to come to the school should take it,” said Rios, who is from Humacao. “The instructors are very good.… I also like this work, like going to other parts of the world.” Another engine department member, Armando Garayua, 30, also appreciates certain aspects of being a merchant mariner. The Ponce native, who joined in 2001, stated, “I like the fact that I can sail for six months and then be home for six months. I just love the fact that we came through the trainee program and it basically was like a free education. Then I kept on upgrading. I definitely recommend it to others and I would encourage them to keep coming back to school, too. That’s an advantage we have compared to other careers. They basically say we’ll train you and put you out there.” While recently upgrading to specially trained ordinary seaman, Kerian Reyes, 30, a San German native who joined in 2008, summed up her experience when she stated, “I’m grateful for the chance and the opportunity that I’ve been given. The trainee program was tough, but I made it.” Benefits Conference in Puerto Rico Seafarers and their families recently got together for a health benefits conference in Puerto Rico. Representatives from the union and the Seafarers Plans also were in attendance. Some of the participants are pictured on this page. 6 Seafarers LOG 66657_Seafarers_X.indd 6 October 2011 9/27/2011 6:56:21 AM �Maritime Briefs Horizon Reaches Refinancing Agreement Horizon Lines recently announced that the company has “reached an agreement with our bond holders to refinance the entire debt structure of the company. Getting to this point has taken many months and we are very pleased with the outcome. In its broadest terms, this transaction allows Horizon to address all of the objectives that we hoped to achieve with the finalization of this agreement.” The company listed several important benefits stemming from this move, including “providing the mechanisms to retire a significant portion of our debt and position the company for future growth.” Finally, the announcement noted, “We have demonstrated to our customers that we continue to run our existing service without interruption…. The refinancing gives us a fighting chance, and we will do whatever is needed to ensure that we can continue to do so.” Maritime Trades Council Brightens Community Gen. McNabb Cites Military-Commercial Partnership The commander of the U.S. Transportation Command, Gen. Duncan McNabb, addressed the 2011 National Defense Transportation Association Forum and Expo last month in Phoenix, Ariz. He delivered the event’s keynote address, speaking to more than 1,000 people from 50 organizations around the globe, including government and non-governmental agencies, members of the military, industry and academia. SIU Executive Vice President Augie Tellez participated in the event. Gen. McNabb underscored the importance of militarycommercial partnerships saying, “There’s nothing like it. … [we] couldn’t do our job without you.” He thanked the commercial industry for its contributions to the Department of Defense’s logistics effort and highlighted the industry’s involvement in creating a strong global transportation system. “You are always ready and eager to tackle any challenge with ingenuity; keeping supply lines open to support our troops.” Paul Hall Center Aces Review The union-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, located in Piney Point, Md., recently underwent a routine audit by a representative from one of the U.S. Coast Guard’s regional examination centers. In follow-up correspondence from the Coast Guard’s National Maritime Center, the school was credited with “exceptionally” good maintenance of student records. Additionally, the official report noted that several students praised Paul Hall Center instructors “for the ability to effectively explain subject matter.” The school was credited with having taken two relatively minor “corrective actions” stemming from a previous review. No corrective actions were recommended following the most recent audit. Terminal Named in Memory of Magee Totem Ocean Trailer Express, Inc.’s (TOTE) Tacoma (Wash.) Terminal has been named the Robert P. Magee Marine Terminal in memory of and tribute to TOTE’s legendary leader. The new name is proudly displayed on signs at each gated entrance to the terminal, as well as in front of the administration building. A formal dedication ceremony was scheduled to take place Sept. 21 at the TOTE Terminal at the Port of Tacoma, as this edition of the LOG went to press. Bob Magee began working for TOTE in May 1986 as Members of unions affiliated with the Greater South Florida Maritime Trades Council, which is part of the Maritime Trades Department, recently teamed up with other area volunteers to paint homes in Dania Beach, Fla. The outreach was part of a new program run in conjunction with the city and headed by Dania Beach Mayor Bobbi Grace, who said the Maritime Trades Council efforts were second to none. “They are a first-class organization who did a first-class community service for the citizens of Dania Beach. We need more people and organizations like them,” she stated. Pictured from left are SIU Port Agent Kris Hopkins, Mayor Grace, Al Lichtman of the IUPAT and AMO VP Joe Gremelsbacker, each of whom contributed to the project. vice president of marine operations. He went on to become president and CEO of TOTE, later chairman of Sea Star Line and then chairman and CEO of American Shipping Group. He received numerous awards for maritime and community leadership which now reside in a custombuilt display cabinet, welcoming employees and visitors in the lobby of the administration building at the Robert P. Magee Marine Terminal. Contract Approved at Brusco In late August, a new five-year contract was reached between the union and Brusco Tug & Barge in Port Hueneme, Calif. The agreement includes wage increases along with a wage re-opener in the third year. It maintains health benefits at the top level available through the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan and also maintains pension benefits. Negotiating on behalf of the SIU were Seafarer Kasanova Langi, SIU Vice President West Coast Nick Marrone and SIU Port Agent Jeff Turkus. Brusco has been an SIU-contracted company since the late 1980s. They provide ship assist services and transport cargo along the West Coast. Engineer of Modern Shipping Container Dies at 92 Keith Tantlinger, an engineer whose refinements of shipping containers almost 60 years ago set in motion an unprecedented era of global trade, died Aug. 27 in Escondido, Calif. He was 92. An obituary in the New York Times pointed out that although Tantlinger didn’t invent the shipping container, he designed corner devices that permitted locking them together (for the company that later became Sea-Land). In turn, that allowed for moving containers via crane, stacking them aboard vessels and moving them to land-based transports including trains and trucks “for more easily, and cheaply, than ever before.” According to the Times piece, “More than any other innovation, the modern shipping container … is now acknowledged to have been the spark that touched off globalization.” A remembrance on National Public Radio pointed out that Tantlinger was hired by Malcolm McLean, described as “the man who really pushed the idea of turning containerization into a viable business.” Labor Coalition Stands Up For Federal Employees The Federal Workers Alliance (FWA), a coalition of 22 unions including the SIU, recently made available a set of four one-page summaries illuminating facts about federal pay and benefits and other aspects of government work. On Sept. 14, the FWA – whose member unions collectively represent more than 300,000 federal workers, including SIU CIVMARS – said it is “working to defend the federal workforce from irresponsible cuts in the forthcoming congressional ‘super committee’ negotiations.” In a news release, the FWA noted, “The initial cuts outlined in phase 1 of the debt ceiling agreement stand to slash hundreds of billions of dollars from federal budgets over the next decade. When the super committee convened for its first public hearing yesterday, the process of identifying an additional $1.2 trillion in cuts began, leaving federal services and the employees who provide them with a very uncertain future. With various proposals targeting federal workers already swirling around Capitol Hill, the FWA stands ready to defend America’s dedicated public servants.” “Federal workers provide invaluable services to the American people every day, and they do it at a tremendous value to the American taxpayer,” said FWA Chair- October 2011 66657_Seafarers_X.indd 7 man William R. Dougan. “They are the dedicated men and women that care for our veterans, inspect our food, maintain our military readiness, and defend our borders. Slashing billions more will cripple these vital services and do far more damage than good. Federal workers have already sacrificed with a two-year pay freeze and drastically reduced agency budgets. Piling on billions more in cuts will lower morale, stifle federal services, and present a logistical nightmare for federal agencies. It is essential that committee members understand that.” He added, “Federal workers are not going to sit on the sidelines while their jobs and retirement security are up for grabs. There is simply too much at stake. We are asking committee members to stand with our nation’s federal employees and make certain they don’t lose the resources they need to keep our promises to the American people.” More information is available at www.nffe.org; the news release and a link to the coalition’s summary papers regarding federal pay, furloughs, workforce reductions, retirement, and health benefits also are posted on the SIU web site (www.seafarers. org) in the News section. Seafarers LOG 7 9/27/2011 6:56:23 AM �Hands-On Training At Paul Hall Center Practical training is an important part of many of the classes available at the union-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, located in Piney Point, Md. This page features some recent photos of 8 Seafarers LOG 66657_Seafarers_X.indd 8 students participating in various courses at the school. Included are images from the Joseph Sacco Fire Fighting and Safety School, which is part of the Paul Hall Center and is located nearby. October 2011 9/27/2011 6:56:30 AM �STANDING UP FOR WORKERS’ RIGHTS – Seafarers in New Orleans recently demonstrated in support of consumer and worker rights. They participated in an Aug. 5 event put together by a coalition of organizations and citizens led by the Student Labor Action Project at Louisiana State University. The rally began in front of the Hale Boggs Federal Building and featured performances and speeches by musicians, community and national organizers, citizens and journalists. A peaceful march followed. For background information, check out the website ProtestALEC.org. BOOK PRESENTATION IN HOUSTON – During the August membership meeting in Houston, SIU VP Gulf Coast Dean Corgey (left) gives the union oath and presents a full B-book to Seafarer Mario Ramirez. Around the Ports with the SIU LABOR DAY PARADE – Members and officials participated in a Labor Day parade in Wilmington, Calif., where U.S. Rep. Janice Hahn and several other speakers addressed the crowd. The SIU contingent included (from left) SA Al Yandoc, Chief Cook Peter Schultz, Safety Director Abdul Al Omari, Port Agent Jeff Turkus, QMED Steven Benavides, Chief Cook Joseph George Welle, OS Todd Kasler, AB Jonathan Pampilon and ACU Dominador Guerrero. SEAFARING FATHER SHARES PHOTO – Recertified Bosun Basil D’Souza wanted to share this picture of his son, Lance Corporal Shayne D’Souza, U.S.M.C. In a late-August communication accompanying the photo submission to the LOG, Patrolman Mark von Siegel noted, “Over the years, Basil has brought his children into the Brooklyn hall and introduced them to the officials, staff and members. He has always been a proud father, but today he looked exceptionally proud to show us this picture of his now grown-up son, a U.S. Marine.” October 2011 66657_Seafarers_X.indd 9 CONGRATS IN JACKSONVILLE – Safety Director Ashley Nelson (right) presents AB Bobby Scheider with his first pension check, at the hall in Jacksonville, Fla. Scheider first sailed in 1990 aboard an OSG vessel; he most recently shipped out as an AB-Tankerman on Crowley’s Innovation. AB HEADS ASHORE – Longtime member AB Robert Hudas, pictured at the union hall in Algonac, Mich., recently filed for retirement. A Seafarer since the late 1960s, Hudas counts among his career highlights the United States Merchant Marine Medal for Outstanding Achievement, which he earned aboard the USNS 1ST LT Jack Lummus in Operation Unified Response. (He is holding the medal and related certificate.) “Everyone here at the hall wishes him fair winds and following seas,” said SIU Representative Don Thornton, who submitted the photo. ‘BUCKET BRIGAGE’ BATTLES IRENE – Students at the union-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, including those pictured here, pitched in to help keep the school in good shape following Hurricane Irene’s destructive passage along the East Coast. Appreciatively dubbed the “bucket brigade,” the students (along with employees) successfully addressed what was described as relatively minor but not insignificant damage. Seafarers LOG 9 9/27/2011 6:56:36 AM �Recollections from the Murmansk Run Editor’s note: Starting with the September 2010 edition and ending with the July 2011 issue, the LOG published eight installments of a story written by Ed Woods, who described sailing as a teenager in World War II. Woods, 84, sailed in the engine and steward departments aboard merchant ships. He recently submitted a new article, the first segment of which follows, along with his introduction. I Never Got to Murmansk I met Johnny Johnson at the end of World War II. We were shipmates on board a United States Army Transport. As we became acquainted, we began to trade stories about our experiences during the war. I thought I had a lot to tell about my crossings of the Atlantic and the Pacific Oceans. However, that was only until Johnny began recounting his wartime experience. I was fascinated with Johnny’s account of his first berth as a wiper on an oil tanker, his contacts with the enemy and the remote places he was forced to visit. Regretfully, I didn’t take notes; I just listened in awe. As these many years have passed, I have decided to write down for posterity what I can recall of what Johnny told me 65 years ago. To fill in the missing parts, I had to add to the story with what I think could have taken place, based on my own wartime experiences at sea. For this reason, I call this narrative a non-fiction novel. (I got the idea from Truman Capote.) Please note, Johnny’s name and his ships’ names are fictional. first time I had ever left New York. Following six weeks of intensive training at the Sheepshead Bay Maritime Service Training Station in Brooklyn, New York, I thought I knew everything about sailing on big ships. However, on this first day aboard ship, I realized there was much to learn. I was assigned as a wiper, the low man on the totem pole in the engine room. There were two other wipers, Bill and Larry. We were all about the same age, teenagers, and assigned to the same fo’c’sle (our sleeping quarters). We would share the work and would become close friends. Wipers didn’t stand watches. They worked days doing maintenance and cleaning in the engine room under the direct supervision of the First Assistant Engineer, who was called “First”. We were, Kid. The latter came about from a popular play and motion picture of the late 1930s that featured a gang of young, uneducated toughs from the lower east side of New York City. The Pine Hill was at anchor midstream in the Hudson River off the 79th Street marina. Ships with dangerous cargoes were required to keep their distance from populated areas. The day before, she had filled her cargo tanks at a refinery in Carteret, New Jersey, and was now taking on deck cargo from barges. It didn’t take me long to notice the guns mounted throughout the ship. Larry identified each of them for me: aft was a 5 inch 38 and at the bow a 3 inch 50. There were also four 20 mm anti-aircraft machine guns aft near the stack; two port and two starboard and four amidships near the bridge; two port and two starboard. I The philosopher asked, “Where do the facts end and the fiction begin? Who can say?” Ed Woods Atlanta, Georgia July 2011 The Infamous Murmansk Run was known as the “Death Run” by many of those heroic U.S. Merchant Marine survivors who sailed in the convoys in the early 1940s to Archangel and Murmansk, Russia. It wasn’t until World War II ended that the need for the convoys to carry supplies to our new Russian ally under extreme wartime conditions was questioned. There were survivors of the convoys who believed the convoys sent to Russia were an appeasement to Stalin, who was demanding that Great Britain and the United States open a second front that would in turn lessen the German army’s pressure at his country’s door. Freezing weather and rough seas were the least of the problems facing the merchant seamen who sailed ships through the cold Norwegian and Barents Seas. German U-boats, German surface warships and German aircraft were waiting and prepared to send them down to Davy Jones Locker and, sadly, the enemy did so many times. (According to the excellent website usmm.org, at least 53 merchant ships carrying U.S. crews were sunk on the Murmansk Run. Most flew the American flag, though a few were Panamanian or Honduran but carried U.S. Navy Armed Guard and/or American crews.) Historians well differ but the question remains, “Were the losses worth the effort?” *** I was scared but I was trying hard not to show it. I was 16 years old and had volunteered to go to sea as a merchant seaman. It was December 1943; World War II was at its height. It was my first time on board an oceangoing ship and the 10 Seafarers LOG 66657_Seafarers_X.indd 10 Many of the ships lost on the Murmansk Run were crewed by SIU members. however, on call 24 hours a day. As soon as I located my sleeping quarters and locker and stowed my gear, I took a tour of the ship with my new friend Larry. It was a big oil tanker, the S/S Pine Hill. It was Larry’s second trip aboard the vessel and I asked him to show me around. The deck was filled with airplanes, P51 Mustang fighters, and crates of their spare parts. The planes were completely covered with heavy waterproof canvas. Larry explained the covering was necessary to protect the valuable cargo from the rough weather we were sure to encounter as we cross the North Atlantic Ocean. He laughed, “If that’s where we’ll be going. You know, we never learn our destination until we are a day or two out to sea.” He said the ship’s tanks were full of high-test aviation gasoline. I then noticed that the stevedores and the deck crew were wearing special shoes and using odd-looking tools. Larry said the shoes and tools were spark-roof. Our cargo, high-test gasoline, was very volatile and every precaution had to be taken. One of the deckhands overheard Larry and said, “Don’t worry, kid, if this baby blows up, you won’t feel a thing. It will be all over in a split second.” Larry introduced me to the deckhand, named Slim. Slim weighed about 200 pounds and was about five-foot-six. I wondered why he was called Slim. Later, I learned that nicknames used aboard ships were often uncharacteristic: the biggest man was called Tiny, the tallest Shorty, etc. Anyone from the South was called Rebel and any youngster from New York, such as me, was referred to as the Dead End had a limited amount of gunnery training at Sheepshead Bay and looked forward to using my newfound fighting skill. I quietly wished that a German plane or U-boat would to dare to attack us when we got out to sea. “I’d show em.” I didn’t confide this feeling to Larry though; I didn’t think he would understand. The next morning, we moved to a new anchorage in the Narrows at the entrance to New York Bay where the Verrazano Bridge now connects Staten Island and Brooklyn. In the distance, I could see tugboats opening and closing nets that would prevent any unauthorized crafts (make that U-boats) from entering the harbor. That evening, all off-duty personnel were told to report to the crew’s mess hall for a meeting with the Navy gunnery officer, Ensign Powell. He was brief and to the point: “I need more men to help me get the most use out of our guns. If the Pine Hill were a naval war ship, I would have many times the number of gunners that I now have to handle the variety and number of weapons we have on board. I need volunteers from the merchant crew. I’ll give you as much training as I can under our limited circumstances. Understand, though, that except in an emergency, you will never be expected to neglect your regular assigned duties. Now, those willing to volunteer, please raise your hand and give me your names.” With the exception of a few old guys, everyone gave his name. As we were leaving the mess hall, Ensign Powell said, “Remember, you men are considered civilians by the enemy and, if taken captive, you will not be protected under the rules of the Geneva Convention.” Bill, the other wiper, who was also new aboard ship, asked, “What does that mean?” A few guys laughed as Powell answered, “You can be executed. Shot at dawn, as they say.” The next morning, the chief mate came to the mess hall and reminded everyone that once we left port, all portholes were to be kept shut after sundown and to be sure to use the blackout curtains going or coming in and from the outside decks. “If I see any lights showing outside at night, there’ll be hell to pay.” Overnight, New York harbor had become filled with ships of all kinds: freighters, tankers, troop carriers and assorted U.S. Navy war ships. The latter would be our escorts when we joined the convoy outside the harbor. I was pleased that Larry explained all of this to me; it helped to relieve the tension and my anxiety. Word was passed that we would sail on the afternoon tide. I asked why a motor ship needed to sail with the tides and was told that tidal currents affect a ship’s steering in narrow passages. “Sailing on the afternoon tide” – the words brought back fond memories of watching a movie on a Saturday afternoon about pirates sailing the Spanish Main. I tried to relax and enjoy my new surroundings. The next morning, the tugs opened the submarine nets protecting New York harbor. We passed through and the nets quickly closed behind us. In the near distance, I could see the maritime school at Sheepshead Bay. I had graduated from there a few days before and yet it seemed like ages. I thought of all the guys I had made friends with while in training and wondered if I would ever see them again. In a few hours, we were at sea off Montauk Point at the eastern end of Long Island. Our naval escorts, American destroyers and Canadian corvettes, were all about, blowing whistles, horns and sirens, as they directed the numerous ships into positions to form a huge grid that would become the convoy. We sailed north to Nova Scotia to rendezvous with other ships and unite with convoys from Halifax and Boston before we started across the North Atlantic. There were planes flying overhead. Larry said the planes were a good sign. The planes would keep U-boats from surfacing or getting close enough to launch torpedoes. The planes would stay with us for our first few days at sea and then return to their base. Our only protection would be our naval escorts. However, other planes would come on patrol over the convoy as we neared Iceland. After supper, I was out on the aft deck, the “poop deck,” as a plane swooped down over the convoy. It was the fastest object I had ever seen in the sky. The fellows told me it was a twin fuselage P38 Lightning. I found it hard to believe that anything could go that fast. I surely was pleased to know that America had such incredible fighting equipment and thought, “Those Germans are going to be sorry they started this war.” I was learning something new all the time. Today, 67 years later, I can only think of how naïve I was at the time. Sixteen years old and a product of what today is called the inner city while growing up in New York City in the 1930s and early 40s, I believed I could handle any situation. I was taught never to back off from a fight, no matter how big my opponent; you still had to stand up to him. And never, never cry or show fear. The word sissy was a challenge to a fight. Yeah, I knew it all. Continued on next page October 2011 9/27/2011 6:56:37 AM �A number of Seafarers from Norfolk recently demonstrated in support of striking Verizon workers. Among those walking the lines to back CWA and IBEW members were (from left) GUDE Ricky Langley, Steward/Baker Raymond Alexander, AB King Scott, Recertified Steward William Perry and Safety Director Sam Spain. Recertified Steward Roslyn Johnson Cape Race Around The Port of Norfolk, Va. Port Agent Georg Kenny (left) congratulates Chief Cook Sam Washington on his second retirement. Washington sailed as a CIVMAR for 24 years before joining the SIU-AGLIWD/NMU for the last decade. When asked why he returned to the sea, Washington said, “I couldn’t get the sea salt out of my veins.” Bosun Mark Coleman USNS Pomeroy AB Eddie Lee Thomas USNS Pomeroy Twenty-year Seafarer Chief Storekeeper Evelyn Nordbrok is all smiles upon her recent retirement. The SIU-crewed USNS Pomeroy is part of the Military Sealift Command’s prepositioning program. (MSC file photo) Kermett Mangram SIU VP Government Services Boatman Carlton Brickhouse (right) and his wife are pictured with Port Agent Georg Kenny. Brickhouse retired after 21 years of service. Mariner Recalls Friend’s Memories of World War II Continued from Page 10 My additional gunnery lessons started at once. I was assigned to a Navy gunner, Chico Martinez. We hit it off right away. He was from New York; we had a lot in common. My first lesson took place in the ammunition room where I was taught to load and put pressure on the 20 mm anti-aircraft magazines. From there it was out on deck to learn how to load the magazine on the gun and how to change a hot barrel. I was looking forward to gunnery practice when Chico and I would alternate firing the weapon. Chico told me that on the Pine Hill there was only one Navy gunner assigned to each 20 mm and one merchant seaman to assist him. Aboard a U.S. Navy combat ship, there would be at least four men handling a 20 mm. There were also two cadets, Ed Saunders and Jack Ryan, from the Maritime Academy at Kings Point assigned to the engine room. They were considered junior officers and ate in the officer’s mess. They were only a few years older than me. We were assigned to work together on various engine room chores. They were real pleasant guys, and we October 2011 66657_Seafarers_X.indd 11 soon became friends, although officers and crew members were not supposed to associate. The poop deck became the place to be after supper if you wanted to keep up with the latest news and rumors. I was at the age that I almost believed everything that was told to me by the older crew members. Larry told me that I had to smarten up and learn to separate fact from fiction. Most of these older men had stories to tell of other ships, other ports and other times. One of the oilers, a man in his sixties, told us that he had been torpedoed three times and had spent many days in lifeboats waiting to be rescued. When someone expressed skepticism, he would show three discharge papers stating he had been discharged at sea. Discharged at sea was a euphemism used by the government that meant your ship had been sunk. He was a very nervous man and I wondered why he kept going back to sea. That night I went out on deck with Bill and Larry. It was a beautiful moonlit night and I commented that it was bright enough to read by it. Larry immediately let me know that there was nothing worse than a bright moonlit night for us or any other ship. “You make the perfect silhouette for a U-Boat. No, give me a good heavy fog and I’ll sleep better any night.” I stayed out on deck on to watch for the first time the bright and beautiful light from the bioluminescence created by the propeller as it beat through the water. Captivating, it was an eerie sight against the total darkness. I had trouble sleeping at night, what with this being my first ship and the excitement of being at sea in a convoy. I mentioned it to Larry and he said he experienced the same problem when he first went to sea. “You’ll get used to it and settle down once you have your sealegs.” It was the fourth night out and I was in the mess hall playing cards when I heard sirens and horns. Someone shouted, “They must have picked up something with the sonar.” We ran out on deck; there was a huge explosion and a ship off our port quarter went up in flames. The sky was so bright from the blaze, it looked like noontime instead of close to midnight. We went inside, grabbed our life jackets from a pile in a corner, and went back on deck. Our own ship’s whistles ordered us to general quarters. I went to my assigned 20 mm. Chico had wasted no time. He had the magazine mounted and was strapped into the harness. He reminded me that we could not fire the weapon until the convoy commodore gave the order even if we were attacked. In the past, U-boats were known to surface in the middle of a convoy to draw attention and then more damage was done from friendly fire than from the enemy. We stayed at our post for another hour until the merchant crew was dismissed and half of the Navy gunners were told to get some sleep. Someone suggested we get blankets and sleep in the mess hall for the rest of the night. I thought it was a great idea. A few old guys said sleeping topside was a waste of time on an oil tanker. “If we get hit, the whole ship is going up and you’ll go down with it no matter where you are when it comes. You might as well be comfortable in your own sack.” However, in a few minutes, there was another explosion. Immediately, the Pine Hill began to vibrate as she picked up speed. We were again ordered to general quarters. We could hear and feel depth charges being dropped. To Be Continued Seafarers LOG 11 9/27/2011 6:56:43 AM �The vessel arrives and moors (above and at immediate right) at Naval Station Norfolk, Va., on Sept. 2. (U.S. Navy photos by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Brian Goodwin) USNS Comfort Concludes ‘Continuing Promis CIVMARS Contribute to Five-Month Mission’s Succe Members of the SIU Government Services Division helped the U.S. Military Sealift Command hospital ship USNS Comfort successfully wrap up a five-month humanitarian mission that saw the vessel visit nine countries. SIU CIVMARS and other Comfort personnel returned to the U.S. East Coast Sept. 2, first docking in Norfolk, Va., and then heading to Baltimore the following week. They initially had departed from Baltimore in early April, kicking off Operation Continuing Promise 2011. Along the way, the Comfort provided medical assistance to 67,879 people, according to MSC. The ship visited Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, El Salvador, Guatemala, Haiti, Jamaica, Nicaragua and Peru. “All CIVMARS are incredible professionals and subject-matter experts in their field,” Navy Capt. Kathy Becker, executive officer of the ship’s medical treatment facility, told the MSC newspaper Sealift. “This very unique and dynamic platform couldn’t operate without [them]. Their working knowledge is reassuring to us on this end and launches us forward.” On average during the mission, the ship carried 850 personnel (not including patients). That number includes licensed and unlicensed CIVMARS, active-duty military personnel, reservists, non-governmental organization civilians, and military representatives from other countries. While the mission’s essence and value lie in the good will, compassion and individual assistance rendered, some of the statistics also are noteworthy. Equipped with a dozen operating rooms, the Comfort conducted 1,130 surgeries and filled nearly 110,000 prescriptions. More than 23,400 pairs of glasses were distributed, and more than 9,100 dental exams were conducted. Humans weren’t the only patients during the mission. The 894-foot vessel also served as a platform for the veterinary treatment of more than 8,200 animals. Additionally, not all of the Comfort’s work was medical. Throughout Continuing Prom- ise, 16 engineering projects were co in various countries. “I was so excited when my name called for this mission, especially be Comfort was going to my (native) c said AB Erwin Joiner, a U.S. citize was born in Nicaragua. “I know as a citizen that there is a deep need and voids to fill in Nicaragua and surrou areas.” The USNS Comfort was delivere Navy in 1987. The vessel can sail a knots and is one of two Navy hospit (the USNS Mercy, also crewed by S MARS, is the other). Personnel from the hospital ship assist patients heading ashore in Costa Rica on Aug. 11. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Alesia Goosic) 12 Seafarers LOG 66657_Seafarers_X.indd 12 October 2011 9/27/2011 6:56:46 AM �Aviation Boatswain’s Mate (Handling) 2nd Class Rocio Luna, assigned to the Chargers of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 26, guides an MH-60S Sea Hawk helicopter toward a pallet of supplies for transport from the Comfort to shore in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, on Aug. 18. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Courtney Richardson) Aviation Boatswain’s Mate (Handling) 2nd Class Ray Wiemer (left) and AB Fennis Jones prepare pallets of cargo as the Comfort begins its return to Haiti from the Caribbean Sea. The ship has been ordered to depart Haiti to evade Hurricane Irene Aug. 21. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Kasey Close) ise’ cess re completed name was lly because the ve) country,” citizen who w as a former d and many urrounding vered to the ail at 17.5 ospital ships by SIU CIV- E Steward/Utility Candice Poole (photo at left) and Engine Utility Willie Grant (Photos courtesy MSC) A Haitian orthopedic surgeon (photo at left) observes a surgery aboard the hospital ship. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Courtney Richardson) In the photo above, USNS Comfort crew members and military personnel wave at the cameras mounted throughout the Panama Canal as the ship transits during Continuing Promise 2011. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Eric C. Tretter) October 2011 66657_Seafarers_X.indd 13 Seafarers LOG 13 9/27/2011 6:56:51 AM �14 Seafarers LOG 66657_Seafarers_X.indd 14 October 2011 9/27/2011 6:56:54 AM �Rallying for 9-11 Heroes Dispatchers’ Report for Deep Sea August 16, 2011 - September 15, 2011 AB Joe Zavala poses with Houston Mayor Annise Parker during a Sept. 11 5K fund-raiser for public servants and victims of the 9-11 terrorist attacks. The Houston event was just one of a number of “9-11 Heroes Runs” that took place across the nation. SHBP Enrollment-Beneficiary Cards The Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan (SHBP) regularly reminds Seafarers about the vital importance of completing and submitting a new SHBP Enrollment-Beneficiary Card whenever a member has a change in his or her family status – such as marriage, divorce, birth of a child, death of a family member, or change in beneficiary. This form enables the Plan to process the member’s Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan benefits correctly and expeditiously. Having an updated card on file is especially important in the event of a member’s death. Death benefits for eligible participants are payable to the beneficiary listed on the most recent beneficiary card on file with the Plan. If a member’s beneficiary has predeceased the member, or if the member does not name a beneficiary, a maximum amount of $1,000 may be payable to the member’s estate. Also, in order for the member’s beneficiary to claim the full amount of the death benefit, the beneficiary must be a close relative. “Close relative” is defined by the Plan as: spouse, mother, father, sister, brother, child, grandmother, grandfather, grandchild, stepmother, stepfather, stepchild, half-sister, half-brother, stepsister, stepbrother, nephew, and niece. Niece and nephew are defined as the children of the brother or sister of a deceased employee. Check the new member portal on the SIU website (www.seafarers. org) to view the beneficiary information that we have on file to see if it is up-to-date. If the information is outdated, members are urged to submit a current SHBP Enrollment-Beneficiary Card as soon as possible. Those cards are available at the union halls. Also, members may call 1-800-252-4674 and request that a card be mailed to them. November & December 2011 Membership Meetings Piney Point....................Monday: November 7, December 5 Algonac........*Monday: November 14, Friday: December 9 Baltimore..................Thursday: November 10, December 8 Guam......**Friday: November 25, Thursday: December 22 Honolulu......................Friday: November 18, December 16 Houston.....................Monday: November 14, December 12 Jacksonville..............Thursday: November 10, December 8 Port Total Registered All Groups A B C C Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS 12 2 4 23 4 8 61 32 6 12 18 42 23 31 10 3 10 34 2 23 360 11 1 7 13 2 6 18 21 6 7 3 17 25 13 7 2 5 15 1 21 202 Total Shipped All Groups A B Deck Department 2 6 5 0 0 3 0 9 6 2 13 11 1 1 3 3 8 0 8 37 6 4 30 23 1 5 4 0 6 4 2 13 5 1 29 15 3 15 18 1 30 10 0 10 7 0 0 2 0 8 2 6 36 17 0 3 1 4 29 19 38 288 161 1 0 0 0 0 1 1 0 0 0 1 1 2 0 0 0 0 3 0 0 10 0 0 2 6 0 0 13 18 0 1 8 15 5 9 4 0 1 21 1 11 115 24 2 6 28 4 5 101 52 7 17 28 81 28 50 9 3 16 59 2 40 562 22 2 7 13 3 10 33 50 4 14 7 34 40 22 9 1 7 24 5 41 348 1 0 1 2 1 3 9 7 2 1 2 4 5 0 0 0 2 6 0 9 55 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS 0 1 5 6 2 8 21 17 4 10 3 10 13 12 6 4 5 14 2 12 155 1 0 6 2 0 4 14 21 1 5 1 9 20 10 1 2 4 9 2 8 120 Engine Department 0 2 0 0 0 0 0 3 3 0 6 2 0 0 0 0 9 5 0 15 8 0 12 16 0 2 1 0 6 4 0 1 1 2 11 7 1 10 10 0 9 7 0 4 4 0 1 3 0 4 3 0 11 10 0 4 0 3 9 8 6 119 92 0 0 0 0 1 0 1 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 5 0 0 0 1 0 1 8 7 0 4 0 7 1 3 3 1 1 7 1 6 51 6 0 6 17 3 14 31 32 4 16 8 23 17 20 3 3 6 32 2 17 260 4 1 8 8 1 5 27 37 4 4 2 18 32 23 3 2 11 11 5 18 224 1 0 0 0 0 2 0 0 1 0 1 3 1 0 0 0 0 0 1 6 16 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS 4 0 3 14 3 10 25 17 2 4 9 20 10 17 1 1 2 18 3 32 195 3 1 3 5 0 3 9 8 3 2 1 7 12 5 1 1 0 4 4 2 74 Steward Department 0 2 0 0 0 0 0 1 2 0 6 2 0 1 0 0 10 3 0 17 5 3 18 5 1 1 3 1 7 0 0 5 2 0 14 4 2 12 9 1 16 4 0 4 0 0 3 1 0 2 1 0 15 3 0 2 2 1 22 2 9 158 48 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 0 0 0 0 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 5 0 0 1 5 0 3 8 11 1 0 1 7 4 3 3 1 0 3 0 8 59 6 0 5 18 4 13 23 36 2 8 7 39 12 30 5 2 4 32 2 53 301 6 1 3 11 2 2 9 9 4 5 2 8 13 7 1 1 0 4 3 4 95 0 0 0 1 0 1 0 2 2 1 0 0 0 2 0 0 0 0 0 1 10 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS 1 0 1 0 0 4 5 3 0 2 1 8 0 5 0 0 0 6 0 3 39 8 2 6 14 4 4 16 22 2 2 3 26 26 14 2 8 1 7 1 9 177 Entry Department 8 0 5 1 0 0 1 1 4 4 0 6 1 0 2 7 0 1 4 1 7 8 0 13 4 0 1 2 1 3 2 1 3 9 4 18 15 0 13 7 1 8 1 0 4 28 0 6 1 1 0 5 2 5 0 0 1 11 1 11 119 13 111 3 1 2 0 0 4 1 4 0 0 1 5 8 5 0 27 0 5 0 4 70 0 1 0 1 0 0 2 0 0 1 0 3 1 0 0 1 0 2 0 2 14 8 0 0 0 0 8 6 5 1 1 1 12 1 5 0 0 0 9 0 9 66 12 4 3 18 4 10 32 45 1 5 4 50 38 31 1 7 2 21 1 29 318 23 1 1 8 1 6 8 19 3 2 6 23 35 19 2 2 1 9 0 36 205 GRAND TOTAL 749 573 172 90 239 1,189 985 286 Joliet.......................Thursday: November 17, December 15 Mobile.................Wednesday: November 16, December 14 New Orleans................Tuesday: November 15, December 13 New York.....................Tuesday: November 8, December 6 Norfolk.....................Thursday: November 10, December 8 Oakland....................Thursday: November 17, December 15 Philadelphia.............Wednesday: November 9, December 7 Port Everglades.......Thursday: November 17, December 15 San Juan....................Thursday: November 10, December 8 St. Louis ............. ........Friday: November 18, December 16 Tacoma........................Friday: November 25, December 23 Wilmington.................Monday: November 21, December 19 * Algonac change created by Veterans Day holiday ** Guam change created by Thanksgiving Day holiday October 2011 66657_Seafarers_X.indd 15 578 412 Trip Reliefs Registered on Beach All Groups A B C Seafarers LOG 15 9/27/2011 6:56:55 AM �Seafarers International Union Directory Michael Sacco, President Augustin Tellez, Executive Vice President David Heindel, Secretary-Treasurer George Tricker, Vice President Contracts Tom Orzechowski, Vice President Lakes and Inland Waters Dean Corgey, Vice President Gulf Coast Nicholas J. Marrone, Vice President West Coast Joseph T. Soresi, Vice President Atlantic Coast Kermett Mangram, Vice President Government Services HEADQUARTERS 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746 (301) 899-0675 ALGONAC 520 St. Clair River Dr., Algonac, MI 48001 (810) 794-4988 ANCHORAGE 721 Sesame St., #1C, Anchorage, AK 99503 (907) 561-4988 BALTIMORE 2315 Essex St., Baltimore, MD 21224 (410) 327-4900 GUAM P.O. Box 3328, Hagatna, Guam 96932 Cliffline Office Ctr. Bldg., Suite 103B 422 West O’Brien Dr., Hagatna, Guam 96910 (671) 477-1350 HONOLULU 606 Kalihi St., Honolulu, HI 96819 (808) 845-5222 HOUSTON 1221 Pierce St., Houston, TX 77002 (713) 659-5152 JACKSONVILLE 5100 Belfort Rd., Jacksonville, FL 32256 (904) 281-2622 JOLIET 10 East Clinton St., Joliet, IL 60432 (815) 723-8002 MOBILE 1640 Dauphin Island Pkwy, Mobile, AL 36605 (251) 478-0916 NEW ORLEANS 3911 Lapalco Blvd., Harvey, LA 70058 (504) 328-7545 Inquiring Seafarer Editor’s note: This month’s question was answered by members at the union hall in Honolulu. Question: Where were you on 9/11 and what do you remember about it? Lloyd Ingram Chief Steward We were in the Med, getting ready to go down the Suez Canal. We had to anchor in the harbor for about two weeks. I was on the Advantage, with Sealift. We finally got permission to go down the Suez Canal and we made it to our final destination, which was Aqaba, Jordan. While we were anchored, we thought we were going to war. We were in a Muslim territory, so we were concerned. We didn’t know if we’d have to turn around and high-tail in out of there. We went ashore in Jordan and didn’t get hassled or anything like that. Ramon Lirag Electrician I was working on land at that time, in a condominium in Hawaii. I was doing maintenance. First thing in the morning, we heard what we thought was a rumor about the World Trade Center being bombed. We kept asking why it happened and who did it. I was scared and sad and waiting for more news. I remember that all my friends looked sad. We were just praying for all the dead. Efren Villarosa Electrician I was driving my car to the Tyco ship Long Lines when I heard the news about the planes hitting the twin towers. It was around 8:30 a.m. here when I heard – the ship was docked in Hawaii. I remember feeling shocked, and everybody else was the same way when we arrived on the ship. We were all watching TV. After my rotation, I went back to the USNS Button, a military support ship. When we went to war with Iraq, we delivered military hardware for the Marines. There were five ships from Diego Garcia that went there. Richard Wright QMED-Electrician At that time I was still in high school, in Hawaii. It was pretty crazy. It was horrible and shocking. When it happened, I was at home and the story popped up on CNN. At first we just thought it was a plane crash. It was a main topic at school that whole week – that whole month, actually. the ship…. I had an SA, a y o u n g gentleman from Yemen. This was the most scared individual I’ve ever met. He was afraid everyone on the ship would blame him. But I told him he had nothing to worry about – he was a U.S. citizen and wasn’t involved. I ended up spending almost nine months on that ship. I’ve been to a lot of military ports, but when we went in (on the Effective), I’ve never seen such security…. Every year on my wife’s birthday, we remember what happened. I’ve been watching on TV lately and it’s like it happened yesterday. Ernest Dumont Chief Steward I was on the USNS Effective and we were in the Sea of Japan, where it was already September 12. I was on the telephone, talking with my wife because it was her birthday. I was getting ready to go back to work when she told me what was on the news. I asked her to send me a message and let me know what’s happening. I went back to work and when it came across our system on Pic-From-The-Past NEW YORK 635 Fourth Ave., Brooklyn, NY 11232 (718) 499-6600 Government Services Division: (718) 499-6600 NORFOLK 115 Third St., Norfolk, VA 23510 (757) 622-1892 OAKLAND 1121 7th St., Oakland, CA 94607 (510) 444-2360 PHILADELPHIA 2604 S. 4 St., Philadelphia, PA 19148 (215) 336-3818 PINEY POINT P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674 (301) 994-0010 PORT EVERGLADES 1221 S. Andrews Ave., Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33316 (954) 522-7984 SANTURCE 1057 Fernandez Juncos Ave., Stop 16 Santurce, PR 00907 (787) 721-4033 ST. LOUIS/ALTON 4581 Gravois Ave., St. Louis, MO 63116 (314) 752-6500 TACOMA 3411 South Union Ave., Tacoma, WA 98409 (253) 272-7774 WILMINGTON 510 N. Broad Ave., Wilmington, CA 90744 (310) 549-4000 Longtime Seafarer Chris Earhart submitted this 1989 snapshot that was taken on the West Coast. Pictured left to right are an unidentified member of the Teamsters; Frank Gill, recently deceased former official with both the SIU and UIW; Attorney James Akerman; retired Port Agent Don Anderson; Clarence Henry, a highly regarded heavyweight boxer who was inducted into the World Boxing Hall of Fame in 1998; retired SIU Dispatcher Jesse Solis; former NBA player Ron Knight; Ray Owens, co-founder of the Golden State Boxing Association; and the late Marine Cooks & Stewards official Joe Goren. If anyone has a vintage union-related photograph he or she would like to share with other Seafarers LOG readers, please send it to the Seafarers LOG, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. Photographs will be returned, if so requested. High-resolution digital images may be sent to webmaster@seafarers.org 16 Seafarers LOG 66657_Seafarers_X.indd 16 October 2011 9/27/2011 6:57:01 AM �Welcome Ashore Each month, the Seafarers LOG pays tribute to the SIU members who have devoted their working lives to sailing aboard U.S.-flag vessels on the deep seas, inland waterways or Great Lakes. Listed below are brief biographical sketches of those members who recently retired from the union. The brothers and sisters of the SIU thank those members for a job well done and wish them happiness and good health in the days ahead. DEEP SEA GEORGE BIXBY Brother George Bixby, 65, began sailing with the SIU in 1991 from the port of Philadelphia. He was born in Pennsylvania and sailed in the engine department. Brother Bixby’s earliest trip was on the China Sea. He attended classes on numerous occasions at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. Brother Bixby most recently shipped aboard the Lawrence Gianella. He is a resident of Greenwood, Del. JUANITO DANSALAN Brother Juanito Dansalan, 70, signed on with the Seafarers in 1988. He originally worked aboard the USNS Harkness. In 2002 and 2003, Brother Dansalan took advantage of educational opportunities at the SIUaffiliated school in Piney Point, Md. His final voyage was on the Charger. Brother Dansalan sailed in the engine department. He makes his home in the Philippines. ROBERT DAVID Brother Robert David, 65, began shipping with the Seafarers in 1991 while in the port of Wilmington, Calif. His first trip to sea was on the Bonny. Brother David was a member of the deck department. He enhanced his skills in 1991 and 2002 at the Piney Point school. Brother David’s final voyage was aboard the Intrepid. He lives in San Diego, Calif. ERLINDA FABIA Sister Erlinda Fabia, 65, became a Seafarer in 1989. Her first ship was operated by American Classic Voyages. Sister Fabia upgraded in 2001 at the maritime training center in Piney Point, Md. She worked in both the October 2011 66657_Seafarers_X.indd 17 engine and steward departments. Sister Fabia’s most recent trip was aboard the Independence. She resides in Honolulu. steward department member’s final trip was aboard the Golden State. Brother Magpale lives in Los Angeles, Calif. JAMES HARRIS Brother James Harris, 65, joined the SIU ranks in 1974. He was initially employed on the Van Defender. Brother Harris was a deck department member. The Boston native’s final trip was aboard the ITB Baltimore. Brother Harris upgraded often at the Seafarers-affiliated school. He calls Nyman, N.H., home. RAFAEL PEREIRA Brother Rafael Pereira, 71, became a SIU member in 1962. His earliest voyage was with Sea Transport Inc. On numerous occasions, Brother Pereira took advantage of educational opportunities at the union-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. He last sailed on the Houston. Brother Pereira was a member of the deck department. He settled in Bacliff, Texas. RUDOLPH HERNANDEZ Brother Rudolph Hernandez, 66, donned the SIU colors in 1990. His earliest trip was on the Constellation. Brother Hernandez was born in Houston and attended classes at the Paul Hall Center in 1996. His most recent trip was aboard the Horizon Reliance. Brother Hernandez, who sailed in the deck department, lives in Torrance, Calif. CHARLES JACKSON Brother Charles Jackson, 71, joined the union in 2001 while in the port of Houston, originally sailing on the ITB Jacksonville. He enhanced his skills on numerous occasions at the Piney Point school. A member of the deck department, Brother Jackson most recently worked aboard the Cape Trinity. He is a resident of his native state, Texas. REYNALDO MAGPALE Brother Reynaldo Magpale, 66, was born in Manila, Philippines. He signed on with the SIU in 1973. Brother Magpale initially worked on the Manulani. In 1990 and 2001, he upgraded at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. The ROGER PHILLIPS Brother Roger Phillips, 65, started sailing with the union in 2000 from the port of Houston. He initially worked aboard the Global Sentinel. Brother Phillips upgraded on two occasions at the Piney Point school. He shipped in the engine department. Brother Phillips’ final trip was on the Ocean Atlas. He makes his home in Point Blank, Texas. ANASTACIO SAMBO Brother Anastacio Sambo, 66, joined the Seafarers in 1996 while in the port of Wilmington, Calif. His first ship was the Long Lines; his last, the Jean Anne. Brother Sambo was born in the Philippines and worked in the deck department. In 2000 and 2001, he enhanced his skills at the SIU-affiliated school. Brother Sambo resides in San Diego, Calif. INLAND CHRISTOPHER SPIVEY Brother Christopher Spivey, 62, began his SIU career in 1979. He was primarily employed with Higman Barge Lines. Brother Spivey was born in Texas and sailed in the deck department. He calls Kountze, Texas, home. RICKY WATERS Brother Ricky Waters, 49, signed on with the union in 1980. He worked with G&H Towing for the duration of his career. In 2001, Brother Waters attended classes at the Paul Hall Center. He is a resident of Portland, Texas. NATIONAL MARITIME UNION RONALD SPENCER Brother Ronald Spencer, 65, was born in San Francisco. He became an NMU member in 1965. Brother Spencer’s final voyage was aboard the Elizabeth Lykes. He lives in Eight Mile, Ala. This Month In SIU History Editor’s note: The following items are reprinted from previous editions of the Seafarers LOG. 1941 The membership of the SIU, in a special meeting on Sept. 24, voted to release all struck vessels pending a settlement of the bonus and insurance issue by the National Defense and Mediation Board. This was upon the request of the President through the Secretary of Labor. The Mediation Board recommended that the bonuses be raised from $60 to $80 per month with $100 for Suez. Although the union was not completely satisfied with these increases it nevertheless recommended to the membership that the increases be accepted and the membership did accept the union’s recommendation and sailed the ships. 1954 The vacation pay under the SIU’s industrywide vacation plan took a jump to $176. The increase – which amounts to a nine percent boost for every Seafarer – was voted by the trustees of the Seafarers Vacation Plan following negotiations with the SIU. The increase from the present $148 industry-high annual level will go into effect for 90 days or more of sea time accumulated after Dec. 1, 1954. The raise in benefits was also possible through no increase in contributions by the shipping companies. Already the Seafarers Vacation Plan, the first industry-wide plan in maritime, has paid out a total of $3,750,000 in benefits to Seafarers since payments got underway in February 1952. Accountants’ figures show the $176 benefit to be the highest in the industry. 1966 President Johnson signed into law a bill creating a new Department of Transportation, which includes agencies regulating the nation’s railroads, highways, and aviation networks. The new department will not include the Maritime Administration, which will remain under the Department of Commerce. Maritime labor supported the move to keep MARAD out of the new department and instead is seeking to have MARAD established as a separate agency. Bills to that effect are in Congress awaiting action by legislators. 1970 On Oct. 21, 1970, President Nixon signed the Merchant Marine Act of 1970. This act, which incorporated many provisions backed by the Seafarers International Union, had passed both houses of Congress by substantial majorities before it was sent to President Nixon for his signature. President Nixon said the bill marked the beginning of a new era for the troubled maritime industry and opened the prospect of revitalization of the U.S.-flag maritime fleet. The bill will benefit SIU members more than others by means of its provision to construct 300 new ships for the foreign trade in the next 10 years. The bulk of those 300 ships will go to SIU-contracted companies. Under the 1970 bill, all steamship companies in the foreign trade will be eligible for subsidies. Seafarers LOG 17 9/27/2011 12:41:00 PM �Final Departures DEEP SEA WILLIE BRAGGS Pensioner Willie Braggs, 83, passed away February 21. Brother Braggs began shipping with the SIU in 1951 from the port of Mobile, Ala. His earliest trip to sea was aboard an ISCO Inc. vessel. Brother Braggs was an Alabama native. Prior to his retirement in 1992, he sailed on the Pacer. Brother Braggs, a member of the steward department, made his home in Fairhope, Ala. ROBERT DUPAYA Brother Robert Dupaya, 69, died March 13. He joined the Seafarers in 1996 while in the port of Wilmington, Calif. Brother Dupaya’s first ship was the Defender; his last was the Explorer. He sailed in the engine department. Brother Dupaya was a resident of San Diego, Calif. MICHAEL IWASKI Pensioner Michael Iwaski, 90, passed away March 17. Brother Iwaski started his seafaring career in 1951. He originally sailed with Tankers Four Lakes as a member of the deck department. Brother Iwaski was born in Boston. His final trip was on the Oakland. Brother Iwaski went on pension in 1984. He settled in Hayward, Calif. HENRY LOVELACE Pensioner Henry Lovelace, 85, died April 6. Brother Lovelace became an SIU member in 1951. He initially shipped aboard the Oremar. Brother Lovelace was born in Virginia and worked in the deck department. He last sailed on the Galveston. Brother Lovelace retired in 1983 and continued to reside in his native state. JOHN McCOY Pensioner John McCoy, 72, passed away March 31. Brother McCoy first donned the SIU colors in 1970. His earliest trip was aboard the Yaka. Brother McCoy, a member of the deck department, was born in San Diego, Calif. He most recently shipped on the 18 Seafarers LOG 66657_Seafarers_X.indd 18 Anchorage. Brother McCoy began collecting his retirement compensation in 2002. He was a resident of Burien, Wash. DIONISIO MUYCO Pensioner Dionisio Muyco, 92, died April 4. Brother Muyco signed on with the union in 1978 while in the port of San Francisco. He first shipped on a States Steamship Company vessel. Brother Muyco was born in the Philippines and worked in the steward department. His final voyage was aboard the President Eisenhower. Brother Muyco became a pensioner in 1987 and lived in San Francisco. JACK OOSSE Pensioner Jack Oosse, 86, passed away March 3. Brother Oosse joined the SIU in 1942 while in the port of Mobile, Ala. His initial trip was on the Alcoa Runner. Brother Oosse, who sailed in the deck department, was born in Grand Rapids, Mich. He last shipped aboard the Sam Houston. Brother Oosse retired in the 1981 and settled in Gatesville, Texas. INLAND WILLIE GUNNERSON Pensioner Willie Gunnerson, 87, passed away March 17. Brother Gunnerson was born in Alabama. He started sailing with the union in 1962. Brother Gunnerson worked with Dravo Basic Materials Company. He started receiving his pension in 1989. Brother Gunnerson continued to reside in his native state. CARROLL SMITH Pensioner Carroll Smith, 84, died April 13. Brother Smith became an SIU member in 1961 in the port of Norfolk, Va. He was born in South Carolina. Brother Smith primarily shipped in the deck department of vessels operated by Moran Towing of Virginia. He retired in 1987 and called Chesapeake, Va., home. GREAT LAKES Brother James Darden, 62, passed away April 19. He joined the union in 1974. Brother Darden was born in Michigan. The deck department member originally sailed on the JA Kling. Brother Darden most recently worked aboard the Walter J. McCarthy. He was a resident of Newport, Mich. REX KAUER Pensioner Floyd Peavy, 90, died March 3. Brother Peavy became a Seafarer in 1951. He originally worked with Bloomfield Steamship Company. The steward department member’s last trip was on the Independence. Brother Peavy went on pension in 1982 and called Summerdale, Ala., home. Pensioner Rex Kauer, 86, died April 10. Brother Kauer signed on with the SIU in 1963. He mainly worked aboard Inland Lakes Management vessels. Brother Kauer was born in Michigan. He shipped in the engine department. Brother Kauer became a pensioner in 1986. He lived in Alpena Township, Mich. Editor’s note: The following brothers, all former members of the National Maritime Union (NMU), have passed away. WALTER RIGBY RUBEN RODRIGUEZ Brother Ruben Rodriguez, 77, died February 5. He signed on with the SIU in 1964. Brother Rodriguez first shipped aboard the Cantigny. He last sailed aboard the Del Sud. Brother Rodriguez, a member of the engine department, lived in New Orleans. HERBERT BROUSSARD Pensioner Herbert Broussard, 104, died April 13. The Louisiana-born mariner became a pensioner in 1973. Brother Broussard was a resident of Mansfield, Ohio. MIGUEL HURTADO Pensioner Miguel Hurtado, 84, passed away March 7. Brother Hurtado was a native of Peru. He retired in 1997. Brother Hurtado made his home in Galveston, Texas. VINCENT KUCHINSKI Pensioner Vincent Kuchinski, 85, died March 21. Brother Kuchinski was born in Moosic, Pa. He went on pension in 1971. Brother Kuchinski continued to call Pennsylvania home. ERNESTO BUCANO ROBERT MILLER Pensioner Ernesto Bucano, 87, passed away April 9. Brother Bucano was a native of Panama. He started collecting his retirement compensation in 1988. Brother Bucano lived in the Bronx, N.Y. Pensioner Robert Miller, 82, passed away April 4. Brother Miller, a native of Camden, N.J., started collecting his retirement compensation in 1966. He settled in Gibbstown, N.J. JAMES DARDEN FLOYD PEAVY Pensioner Walter Rigby, 87, passed away April 20. Brother Rigby joined the union in 1943 while in the port of Baltimore, Md. He was initially employed aboard the Cantigny. Brother Rigby was born in Canada and sailed in the deck department. Before his retirement in 1985, he worked on the Stonewall Jackson. Brother Rigby made his home in Westwego, La. went on pension in 1991. Brother Borras settled in San Juan. ROBERT BURNETT Pensioner Robert Burnett, 83, died March 27. Brother Burnett was born in Charleston, Ill. He went on pension in 1967 and called Grandview, Texas, home. ROBERT BUTLER Pensioner Robert Butler, 85, passed away April 1. Brother Butler was a native of Cambridge, Mass. He retired in 1991. Brother Butler made his home in Baltimore, Md. JAMES MITCHELL Pensioner James Mitchell, 82, died March 26. Brother Mitchell was born in Valparaiso, Ind. He began receiving his pension in 1993. Brother Mitchell resided in Houma, La. HERLIN NUTT Pensioner Herlin Nutt, 81, passed away March 26. Born in Mollusk, Va., he became a pensioner in 1980. Brother Nutt lived in Philadelphia, Pa. EDDIE OLIVER Pensioner Eddie Oliver, 78, died March 20. The Texas-born mariner went on pension in 1997. He was a resident of Los Angeles, Calif. ANTONIO COELHO Pensioner Antonio Coelho, 92, died March 25. Brother Coelho was born in Portugal. He became a pensioner in 1973. Brother Coelho settled in Lowell, Mass. ANTONIO PALMONARI Pensioner Antonio Palmonari, 84, passed away March 11. Brother Palmonari was born in Ladd, Ill. He retired in 1967. Brother Palmonari settled in East Berlin, Pa. JAMES COOPER NATIONAL MARITIME UNION RICHARD ADAMS Pensioner Richard Adams, 77, passed away March 7. Brother Adams was born in Tennessee. He retired in 1996 and continued to reside in his native state. DAVID ALEXIS Pensioner David Alexis, 89, died February 28. Brother Alexis, a native of Trinidad, became a pensioner in 1967. He called Galveston, Texas, home. ROBERTO BORRAS Pensioner Roberto Borras, 75, passed away March 8. Brother Borras was born in Guanica, P.R. He Pensioner James Cooper, 66, passed away April 3. Brother Cooper was a Savannah, Ga., native. He started collecting his retirement compensation in 1999. Brother Cooper continued to live in Georgia. RAYMOND REEVES Pensioner James Etheridge, 87, died April 5. Brother Etheridge went on pension in 1964. He was a resident of New Jersey. Pensioner Raymond Reeves, 75, died March 11. Brother Reeves, a native of Ashland, Ky., started receiving his retirement compensation in 1996. He continued to make his home in Kentucky. EARL GRANT OSCAR WALLER Pensioner Earl Grant, 64, passed away April 12. Brother Grant was born in Savannah, Ga. He began receiving his pension in 2005. Brother Grant lived in Moncks Corner, S.C. Pensioner Oscar Waller, 93, passed away March 1. Born in Tennessee, he began collecting his pension in 1976. Brother Waller called Norfolk, Va., home. JAMES ETHERIDGE JAMES WINSTEAD RAYMOND GUIDRY Pensioner Raymond Guidry, 80, died March 31. Born in Port Arthur, Texas, he became a pensioner in 1992. Brother Guidry was a resident of Baytown, Texas. Pensioner James Winstead, 86, died March 12. Brother Winstead was born in North Carolina. He became a pensioner in 1994. Brother Winstead resided in Chesapeake, Va. October 2011 9/27/2011 12:41:05 PM �Digest of Shipboard Union Meetings PRESTIGE NEW YORK (Liberty Maritime), July 17 – Chairman Elkanah B. Ladia, Secretary Lionell P. Packnett, Educational Director Ricky Gault, Deck Delegate Pedro Campos, Engine Delegate Gary Timmons. Chairman discussed communication from union regarding retroactive contract. He also talked to captain about payoff in Jacksonville, Fla. Educational director suggested Seafarers take advantage of courses available at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Members requested upgrade to email system and gym equipment, such as a treadmill and curl bars. Mariners were reminded to clean up after themselves while in the lounge and laundry. CHARGER (Maersk Line, Limited), August 13 – Chairman Gerry A. Gianan, Secretary Rolando M. Lopez, Educational Director Andrew J. Linares, Deck Delegate Julius Dagoldol, Engine Delegate Mbarek Mouhairi, Steward Delegate Khaled A. Taffi. Chairman thanked crew for a smooth, safe voyage. He stressed the importance of safety at all times. Steward department was thanked for excellent meals. Mariners were reminded to properly dispose of paper towels. Secretary reported sanitary inspections went great and expressed his gratitude for crew members helping keep ship clean. He reminded everyone that the plastic salad bowels are not microwaveable and should not be used for hot food. Educational director reiterated the need to renew documents in a timely manner and advised all mariners to enhance skills at the union-affiliated training center in Piney Point, Md. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Suggestion was made to include oxtails on the menu. JEAN ANNE (Interocean American Shipping), August 7 – Chairman Daniel Davenport, Secretary Samuel P. Sinclair, Educational Director Michael A. Papaioannou, Deck Delegate Billy Cooley, Engine Delegate Rosalio Cordova, Steward Delegate Ingra Maddox. Bosun handed out various forms for members to file for vacation pay, registration and medical/ dental benefits. Secretary reported great morale among crew members. He encouraged mariners to upgrade at Paul Hall Center and keep documents upto-date. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Thanks to steward department and GVAs for waxing mess hall and all decks. October 2011 66657_Seafarers_X.indd 19 The Seafarers LOG attempts to print as many digests of union shipboard minutes as possible. On occasion, because of space limitations, some will be omitted. Ships’ minutes first are reviewed by the union’s contract department. Those issues requiring attention or resolution are addressed by the union upon receipt of the ships’ minutes. The minutes are then forwarded to the Seafarers LOG for publication. LIBERTY EAGLE (Liberty Maritime), August 21 – Chairman Juan M. Rivas, Secretary Fernando R. Guity, Educational Director Bruce M. Korte, Deck Delegate Albert Konning, Steward Delegate Rene Gil. Chairman announced payoff on August 23. Secretary asked seamen departing vessel to clean their rooms and turn keys into captain. Educational director advised members to stay current on all necessary seafaring documents and attend classes at the SIU-affiliated training center in Piney Point, Md. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Thanks given to steward department for a job well done. LIGHTNING (Maersk Line, Limited), August 7 – Chairman Manolo V. Delos Santos, Educational Director Daniel F. Dean, Deck Delegate James Morgan, Engine Delegate Faisel Kassem, Steward Delegate Kathleen Lanahan. Chairman talked about the importance of keeping documents current. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew members requested van service in Busan, Korea. President’s report in the Seafarers LOG was read. Suggestions were made regarding contract negotiations. Recommendation was made to increase pension amounts to keep up with the cost of living. Next ports: Oakland, Calif., and Long Beach, Calif. MAERSK MISSOURI (Maersk Line, Limited), August 7 – Chairman Daniel S. Marcus, Secretary Billy Gigante, Educational Director Jerome D. Culbieth, Deck Delegate Abdalla R. Gaafar, Engine Delegate Adam W. Milczewsk, Steward Delegate Brian T. McEleney. Chairman reported smooth voyage with good crew. He stated payoff would take place August 15th upon arrival in Elizabeth, N.J., and went over ship’s schedule. Secretary asked Seafarers to leave cabins clean for reliefs. Educational director reminded crew to get their time in and take advantage of upgrading at Piney Point. Treasurer noted $3,500 in ship’s fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Vote of thanks was given to Ed Woods for his entertaining stories. Next ports: Elizabeth, N.J., Charleston, S.C., Norfolk, Va. and Newark, N.J. SAM LAUD (American Steamship Company), August 19 – Chairman Timothy D. Koebel, Secretary Munasser A. Ahmed, Educational Director Mused Nasser, Deck Delegate Kassim Ghaleb, Engine Delegate Michael Lau. Chairman discussed AMO Successful Turbo Activation Seafarers and their union recently contributed to a successful turbo activation of the auxiliary crane ships Gem State, Grand Canyon State and Keystone State (all operated by Pacific-Gulf Marine and home-ported on the West Coast). Ordered by the U.S. Maritime Administration, the activation began Sept. 8 and concluded one week later. Patrolman Nick Marrone II, who submitted these photos, stated, “The activation demonstrated the reliability, professionalism and manpower of the SIU.” SA Mana Muhsen SA Diana House Chief Cook Kirk Fisher strike and reviewed highlights in the 2011-2016 Lakes Agreement. He also relayed engineers’ request that crew dog down doors for A/C. Smokers were asked to empty ashtrays in lounge and messhalls. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew members talked about Paul Hall’s birthday and what a visionary he was. Fellow mariners expressed appreciation for steward department’s fine cuisine. Next ports: Cleveland, Ohio, Tawas City, Mich. and Waukegan, Ill. MAERSK VIRGINIA (Maersk Line, Limited), August 5 – Chairman Mohamed S. Ahmed, Secretary Donald J. Mann, Educational Director Michael D. Voda, Engine Delegate Antuan Barnes, Steward Delegate Simone Soloman. Chairman reported a good trip and announced payoff in Newark, N.J., on August 8th. Those departing vessel were asked to leave rooms clean and supplied with fresh linen for next mariner. Seafarers were urged to attend classes at the union-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md., and stay up-todate on all necessary seafaring documents. Treasurer reported $1,800 in ship’s fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Recommendation was made to increase pension amounts and lower sea time requirements. Needs for new pillows and towels were noted. Next port: Newark, N.J. Seafarers LOG 19 9/27/2011 6:57:13 AM �With Seafarers on the Cape Isabel These photos were taken aboard the Crowley-operated Cape Isabel during an August voyage along the West Coast. The vessel is part of the U.S. Ready Reserve Force (RRF), which was established in the 1970s. The ship is 684 feet long, has a beam of 102 feet and can sail at nearly 19 knots. Know Your Rights FINANCIAL REPORTS. The Constitution of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU makes specific provision for safeguarding the membership’s money and union finances. The constitution requires a detailed audit by certified public accountants every year, which is to be submitted to the membership by the secretary-treasurer. A yearly finance committee of rank-and-file members, elected by the membership, each year examines the finances of the union and reports fully their findings and recommendations. Members of this committee may make dissenting reports, specific recommendations and separate findings. TRUST FUNDS. All trust funds of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/ NMU are administered in accordance with the provisions of various trust fund agreements. All these agreements specify that the trustees in charge of these funds shall equally consist of union and management representatives and their alternates. All expenditures and disbursements of trust funds are made only upon approval by a majority of the trustees. All trust fund financial records are available at the headquarters of the various trust funds. SHIPPING RIGHTS. A member’s shipping rights and seniority are protected exclusively by contracts between the union and the employers. Members should get to know their shipping rights. Copies of these contracts are posted and available in all union halls. If members believe there have been violations of their shipping or seniority rights as contained in the contracts between the union and the employers, they should notify the Seafarers Appeals Board by certified mail, return receipt 20 Seafarers LOG 66657_Seafarers_X.indd 20 requested. The proper address for this is: Augustin Tellez, Chairman Seafarers Appeals Board 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 Full copies of contracts as referred to are available to members at all times, either by writing directly to the union or to the Seafarers Appeals Board. CONTRACTS. Copies of all SIU contracts are available in all SIU halls. These contracts specify the wages and conditions under which an SIU member works and lives aboard a ship or boat. Members should know their contract rights, as well as their obligations, such as filing for overtime (OT) on the proper sheets and in the proper manner. If, at any time, a member believes that an SIU patrolman or other union official fails to protect their contractual rights properly, he or she should contact the nearest SIU port agent. EDITORIAL POLICY — THE SEAFARERS LOG. The Seafarers LOG traditionally has refrained from publishing any article serving the political purposes of any individual in the union, officer or member. It also has refrained from publishing articles deemed harmful to the union or its collective membership. This established policy has been reaffirmed by membership action at the September 1960 meetings in all constitutional ports. The responsibility for Seafarers LOG policy is vested in an editorial board which consists of the executive board of the union. The executive board may delegate, from among its ranks, one individual to carry out this responsibility. PAYMENT OF MONIES. No monies are to be paid to anyone in any official capacity in the SIU unless an official union receipt is given for same. Under no circumstances should any member pay any money for any reason unless he is given such receipt. In the event anyone attempts to require any such payment be made without supplying a receipt, or if a member is required to make a payment and is given an official receipt, but feels that he or she should not have been required to make such payment, this should immediately be reported to union headquarters. CONSTITUTIONAL RIGHTS AND OBLIGATIONS. Copies of the SIU Constitution are available in all union halls. All members should obtain copies of this constitution so as to familiarize themselves with its contents. Any time a member feels any other member or officer is attempting to deprive him or her of any constitutional right or obligation by any methods, such as dealing with charges, trials, etc., as well as all other details, the member so affected should immediately notify headquarters. EQUAL RIGHTS. All members are guaranteed equal rights in employment and as members of the SIU. These rights are clearly set forth in the SIU Constitution and in the contracts which the union has negotiated with the employers. Consequently, no member may be discriminated against because of race, creed, color, sex, national or geographic origin. If any member feels that he or she is denied the equal rights to which he or she is entitled, the member should notify union headquarters. SEAFARERS POLITICAL ACTIVITY DONATION — SPAD. SPAD is a separate segregated fund. Its proceeds are used to further its objects and purposes including, but not limited to, furthering the political, social and economic interests of maritime workers, the preservation and furthering of the American merchant marine with improved employment opportunities for seamen and boatmen and the advancement of trade union concepts. In connection with such objects, SPAD supports and contributes to political candidates for elective office. All contributions are voluntary. No contribution may be solicited or received because of force, job discrimination, financial reprisal, or threat of such conduct, or as a condition of membership in the union or of employment. If a contribution is made by reason of the above improper conduct, the member should notify the Seafarers International Union or SPAD by certified mail within 30 days of the contribution for investigation and appropriate action and refund, if involuntary. A member should support SPAD to protect and further his or her economic, political and social interests, and American trade union concepts. NOTIFYING THE UNION — If at any time a member feels that any of the above rights have been violated, or that he or she has been denied the constitutional right of access to union records or information, the member should immediately notify SIU President Michael Sacco at headquarters by certified mail, return receipt requested. The address is: Michael Sacco, President Seafarers International Union 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 October 2011 9/27/2011 6:57:23 AM �Paul Hall Center Upgrading Course Schedule The following is the schedule of courses at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md., for the next few months. All programs are geared to improving the job skills of Seafarers and to promoting the American maritime industry. Please note that this schedule may change to reflect the needs of the membership, the maritime industry and—in times of conflict—the nation’s security. Students attending any of these classes should check in the Saturday before their course’s start date. The courses listed here will begin promptly on the morning of the start dates. For classes ending on a Friday, departure reservations should be made for Saturday. Seafarers who have any questions regarding the upgrading courses offered at the Paul Hall Center may call the admissions office at (301) 994-0010. Title of Course Start Date Date of Completion Title of Course Start Date Date of Completion Safety Upgrading Courses Advanced Firefighting November 12 November 25 Basic Safety Training November 14 December 5 November 18 December 9 Medical Care Provider November 26 December 2 Vessel Security Officer October 15 October 18 Deck Department Bosun Recertification October 15 November 7 ECDIS November 12 November 18 GMDSS November 26 December 9 Lifeboat October 15 November 12 October 28 November 25 STOS October 29 November 11 Tank Barge PIC October 8 October 14 Engine Department BAPO November 12 December 9 FOWT October 15 November 11 Junior Engineer October 22 December 16 Welding October 29 November 26 November 18 December 16 Steward Department Chief Steward October 8 November 18 Chief Cook These modules start every other week. The most recent class began October 3. Galley Operations/Advanced Galley Operations These modules start every Monday. UPGRADING APPLICATION Name ____________________________________________________________________ Address __________________________________________________________________ Important Notice For All Paul Hall Center Students Students who have registered for classes at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, but later discover—for whatever reason— that they cannot attend should inform the admissions department immediately so arrangements can be made to have other students take their places. NOTICE: NMC Web Site is Vital Resource for Mariners The National Maritime Center (NMC), the licensing authority for the U.S. Coast Guard, offers a comprehensive web site covering mariner credentialing, medical guidelines and much more. The site features a wide range of applications and forms, deck- and engine-department exam information, lists of Coast Guard-approved courses and more. Seafarers are encouraged to check out the site at:http://www.uscg.mil/nmc/ Mariners may call the NMC at 1-888-IASKNMC (1-888-427-5662). Operational hours are 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. EST, Monday through Friday. (The NMC is closed for all federal holidays.) Various email forms also are available through the NMC web site. With this application, COPIES of the following must be sent: One hundred and twenty-five (125) days seatime for the previous year, one day in the last six months prior to the date your class starts, USMMD (z-card) front and back or relevant pages of merchant mariner credential, front page of your union book indicating your department and seniority, qualifying seatime for the course if it is Coast Guard tested, 1995 STCW Certificate, valid SHBP Clinic Card and TWIC. _________________________________________________________________________ Date of Birth ______________________________________________________________ ____________________________ START DATE _______________ Deep Sea Member ❏ ____________________________ _______________ _______________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________ Telephone (Home)_________________________ (Cell)_________________________ Lakes Member ❏ Inland Waters Member ❏ If the following information is not filled out completely, your application will not be processed. Social Security #_______________________ Book #_____________________________ Seniority_____________________________ Department______________________ COURSE DATE OF COMPLETION _______________ LAST VESSEL: __________________________________Rating: ______________ Home Port_____________________________________________________________ E-mail________________________________________________________________ Date On: ___________________________ Date Off:________________________ Endorsement(s) or License(s) now held______________________________________ SIGNATURE ________________________________ DATE___________________ _________________________________________________________________________ NOTE: Transportation will be paid in accordance with the scheduling letter only if you present original receipts and successfully complete the course. If you have any questions, contact your port agent before departing for Piney Point. Not all classes are reimbursable.Return completed application to: Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education Admissions Office, P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674-0075; or fax to (301) 994-2189. Are you a graduate of the SHLSS/PHC trainee program? ❏ Yes ❏ No If yes, class # ______________________________________________________________ Have you attended any SHLSS/PHC upgrading courses? ❏ Yes ❏ No If yes, course(s) taken_____________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________________ October 2011 66657_Seafarers_X.indd 21 The Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education is a private, non-profit, equal opportunity institution and admits students, who are otherwise qualified, of any race, nationality or sex. The school complies with applicable laws with regard to admission, access or treatment of students in its programs or activities. 10/11 Seafarers LOG 21 9/27/2011 6:57:24 AM �Paul Hall Center Classes Unlicensed Apprentice Water Survival Class 750 – The following Phase III unlicensed apprentices and upgraders (above, in alphabetical order) completed this 60-hour course Sept. 9: Mutea Alnuzely, Jason Amy, Brett Arcouette, Randy Baggs, Fontaine Barber, Dennis Blake, Christopher Brown, Christian Bryant, Earl Dimmick, Scott Doxey, Cory Ellis, Vincent Figuenick, Cody Fox, Felix Garcia, Joseph Haines, Fast Rescue Boat – Seven upgraders finished this course Aug. 26. Graduating (above, in Jade Kellar, Edison Lalin, Jason Meyers, Mario Ramirez, Stephen Nowell, Juan alphabetical order) were: Farrell Bodden, Erik Haik, Darrel Koonce Jr., Rafael Lanila, Ryan Schlichte, Jason Simon and Alexander Ward. Class Instructor Tom Truitt is third from the left. Vallejo and Fredrick Wright. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Lifeboat 750 IMG_0940s.tif Fast Res IMG_0964.tif BAPO – The following upgraders (above, in alphabetical order) completed this course Aug. 19: Jason Amy, Brett Arcouette, Philip Gifford, Brandon Grace, Joseph Haines, Melchor Lapac Jr., Ariston Ora-a, Roosevelt Osborne, Steven Supplee, Zaza Tchitanave and Alexander Zharfoff. Class Instructor Robert Ott is in back, third from the left. FOWT – Fifteen upgraders completed their training in this course Sept. 2. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Leonilo Arano, Jason Billingsley, Lawrence Brooks Jr, Charles Burnham, Brandon Fore, Joseph Gref, Alexandra Jones, Brittenne Kelly, Manuel Lata, Ann Mensch, Darnell O’Hara, Abdulnaser Saeed, Salah Saleh, Mark Santoli and Brett Van Pelt. Tim Achorn, the class instructor, is at the far right. Machinist – Nine upgraders completed the enhancement of their skills in this course Aug. 19. Those graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Haeven Bautista, Francis Brown, Romeo Chavez, Archie Eldridge, Gregory Johns, Kenneth Lockhart, Anibal Lopes, Butch Lumansoc and Gerome McFadden. Their instructor, Steve Harver, is at the far right. ARPA – The following individuals (above, in alphabetical order) completed this course Aug. 26: Secundino Arzu, James Copeland, Elmer Marko, Stephen Morris and Richard Trovillo. STOS – Fourteen individuals completed their requirments in this course Aug. 19. Graduating (right, in alphabetical order) were: Cliff Alexis, Mutea Alnuzely, Juan Bautista, Terence Brennam, Christopher Brown, Marco Brown, Cory Ellis, Michael Paiko, Patrick Slade, Adam Smith, Zachary Thibeault, Timothy Van Weezel, Jason Wagner and Steven Welcome. 22 Seafarers LOG 66657_Seafarers_X.indd 22 October 2011 9/27/2011 6:57:35 AM �Paul Hall Center Classes Tankship Familiarization DL (Phase III) - The following Phase III unlicensed apprentices (left, in alphabetical order) completed this course Sept. 9: Christopher Allen, Jerry Aquino, John Bielamowicz, Sean Branch, Ryan Brown, Mashanda Carr, Keith Carswel, James Cronk III, Kevin Cunningham, Rodney Davis, Theophilus Essien, Richard Flores, Wiliam Gibson, Jeffrey Gleason, Warren Gorman, John Hernandez, Ian Jordan, Nicholas Katsampes, Kelly Krick Jr., Justin Machuga, Enrique Medri, Prateek Poras, Angela Porter, Cynthia Servance and Kevin Sykes. Important Notice Students who have registered for classes at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, but later discover-for whatever reason- that they can’t attend, should inform the admissions department immediately so arrangements can be made to have other students take their place Radar Observer – Eight upgraders completed this course Aug. 19. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Secundino Arzu, James Copeland, Leonard Gregg, Charles Herrera, Elmer Marko, Karl Mayhew, Stephen Morris and Richard Trovillo. Able Seaman – The following upgraders (above, in alphabetical order) graduated from this course Aug. 12: Ibrahim Abubaker, Damario Carr, Christin Clanton, Oleg Doskach, Paul Elia, Gwendolyn Garcia, Christopher Geraty, Timothy Hess, Jordache Hunter, Leland Jordon, Marvin Kirby, Casey Matheson, Ryan Murphy, Jason Newsham, Kerian Reyes Velez, Bryan Smith and Kellan Vonrabenstein. Class Instructor Tom Truitt is sixth from the left in the far back. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Small Arms – Four upgraders finished their requirements in this course Sept. 2. Completing the class (above, in alphabetical order) were: William Dowzicky, Thomas Moore, Robert Oppel and Gregory White. Chief Cook – Six individuals recently finished their requirements in this course. Graduating and receiving certificates (above, in alphabetical order) were: Rey Chang, Deitre Jackson, Jermin Matthews, Jesus Pacheco, Primo Ramirez and Rondell Richardson. BST (Hawaii) - The following individuals (above, in no particular order) graduated from this course Aug. 13 at the Seafarers Training Facility in Barbers Point, Hawaii: Salvador Del Rosario, Darnell Denney, Megan Gingrich, Susan Golowin, Meghan Gray, Monique Madrid, Samuel Martin, Roy Miller, Jacob Shuda, Stephanie Vu Dang, Marcus Wright, Jessica Nassif, Rachel Canaria, Luis Campo, Erlito Zata, Narciso Pastor Jr., Bridget Elam and Corey Rittmaster BST (Hawaii) - Sixteen individuals graduated from this course Aug. 20 at the Barbers Point, Hawaii-based Seafarers Training Facility. Those graduating (above, in no particular order) were: Juilo leon, Vincent Longo III, Lilibeth Nichols, Kendra Palmer, Darrah Patterson, Stephanie Schultz, Julia Richter, Daniel Hunalp, Timothy Winski, Chelsea McLean, Felix LaBella, Kristy Cavanaugh, Emily Fine, Kevin Scott, Catherine Kirifides and Edsion Monton. October 2011 66657_Seafarers_X.indd 23 Seafarers LOG 23 9/27/2011 6:57:46 AM �Volume 73, Number 10 October 2011 Union Plus Benefit Information Page 14 AB Alfredo Genio DEU Raul Ventanilla Recertified Bosun Greg Agren, Port Agent Joe Vincenzo Seafarers Step Up for ‘Paint Tacoma’ Recertified Bosun Greg Agren called it a triple victory. After more than a dozen Seafarers recently participated in the annual Paint Tacoma-Pierce (Wash.) Beautiful project, Agren neatly summarized the experience. “It makes everybody feel good,” he said. “You get some satisfaction as a worker; it brightens the community; and the people having the work done (to their homes) appreciate it. It’s a win-win-win situation.” It’s also nothing new for SIU members from that area, as 2011 marked the fifth straight year Seafarers donated their time and labor. This year’s SIU group included 13 members, two officials, a port secretary and two family members, plus an advisor from the sponsoring organization (Associated Ministries). Combined, they spent more than 138 hours sprucing up the home of a grateful local resident. They also were part of a larger, community-wide effort that typically attracts more than 1,600 volunteers who paint and repair homes owned by low-income senior and disabled citizens. Final figures for 2011 aren’t available, but last year, volunteers worked on 87 homes. The year before, they painted 82 area houses. SIU Port Agent Joe Vincenzo spearheads the union’s participation and he, like the rank- and-file members, finds it beneficial in many ways. “The past five years of painting homes in the Tacoma area grew to be something of a tradition that is personally rewarding and meaningful in terms of the good will it creates, not only on the part of the community but also on the part of Seafarers themselves,” Vincenzo said. “Tacoma Seafarers giving of themselves during tough economic times – ironically, during a Labor Day weekend when it was reported no new jobs were created the previous month – is a real testament to their thanksgiving, good faith and willingness to stay a true course. “Given the nature of shipping itself,” he added, “it is a true test of their mettle to be so willing to give something back between ships and before time with their families. There is much to be proud of.” Like Vincenzo and Agren, other SIU participants found the experience enriching. Recertified Bosun Darryl Smith stated, “It was a great experience. Everybody chipped in and did their part, and the place was looking really sharp when we got done with it.” Smith added, “I enjoyed the [heck] out of hit. There are a lot of people in need. This gives back to the community, and I felt it was a wonderful thing. It improves the neighborhood, too.” QMED Carl Castagna said that on a oneto-five scale, “I’d give the experience a five. It was wonderful, helping somebody and volunteering. It was a good feeling, you know? It went very smoothly and the lady of the house was very nice. She had this big canteen outside full of ice water for us. It was very hot, but she kept us hydrated.” The aforementioned lady and homeowner, Doris Shaw, said of the SIU personnel: “They were wonderful – a great group of guys to work with, and (secretary) Brenda (Flesner) was really excellent, too. They were fantastic to work with and they did an outstanding job. I appreciate it very much.” The SIU team consisted of Port Agent Vincenzo, Safety Director Ryan Palmer, Recertified Bosuns Smith and Agren, QMEDs Castagna and Glenn Quitorio, ABs Alfredo Genio, Raul Molina, Robert Calvo, Arturo Nobleza and Eugene Hoehn, Engine Utility Henry Crespo, OMU Thaddeus Kilgore, DEU Raul Ventanilla, MDR Duane Akers, Flesner and daughters Emilia Flesner and Donica Delia, plus group advisor Bronson Kim. AB Raul Molina Recertified Bosun Darryl Smith 66657_Seafarers_X.indd 24 Engine Utility Henry Crespo QMED Carl Castagna Some of the SIU contingent is pictured with grateful homeowner Doris Shaw (right), who described the Seafarers as “wonderful.” 9/27/2011 6:57:57 AM � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Seafarers Log Issues 2010-2019 Description An account of the resource Volumes LXXII-LXXXI of the Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Seafarers Log Digital Copies Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 2010-2019 Document A resource containing textual data. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre text. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource October 2011 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES CROWLEY ADDS ANOTHER STATE-OF-THE-ART ATB U.S. NAVY CHRISTENS FIRST JHSV USNS COMFORT COMPLETES 5-MONTH MISSION SEAFARERS CONTINUE TRADITION MEMBERS ENJOY GIVING BACK TO COMMUNITY THROUGH ‘ANNUAL PAINT TACOMA’ ENDEAVOR DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION HONORS SERVICE OF MERCHANT MARINERS ON 9/11 BILL AIMS TO TOUGHEN ANTI-PIRACY MEASURES MARITIME UNIONS’ MESSAGE TO U.S. STATE DEPARTMENT: DON’T REWARD INDOLENT FLAG STATES IN PIRACY FIGHT CROWLEY ACCEPTS DELIVERY OF ATB VISION/650-10 JONES ACT VESSEL READY TO DELIVER PETROLEUM PRODUCTS ON WEST COAST NAVY’S FIRST JOINT HIGH-SPEED VESSEL CHRISTENED SHBP RELEASES UPDATED GUIDE FOR ACTIVE MEMBERS ADVISORY BOARD MEETS IN PINEY POINT BIPARTISAN LETTER CRITICIZES WAIVERS OF JONES ACT MTD ALSO STRONGLY WEIGHS IN ON RECENT USE OF FOREIGN VESSELS HORIZON REACHES REFINANCING AGREEMENT GEN. MCNABB CITES MILITARY-COMMERCIAL PARTNERSHIP PAUL HALL CENTER ACES REVIEW TERMINAL NAMED IN MEMORY OF MAGEE CONTRACT APPROVED AT BRUSCO ENGINEER OF MODERN SHIPPING CONTAINER DIES AT 92 LABOR COALITION STANDS UP FOR FEDERAL EMPLOYEES RECOLLECTIONS FROM THE MURMANSK RUN USNS COMFORT CONCLUDES ‘CONTINUING PROMISE CIVMARS CONTRIBUTE TO FIVE-MONTH MISSION’S SUCCESS SEAFARERS STEP UP FOR ‘PAINT TACOMA’ Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Seafarers Log Digital Copies Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 10/01/2011 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Newsprint Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context Vol. 73, No. 10 2011 Periodicals Seafarers Log http://www.seafarerslog.org/archives/files/original/1abac63bdf3c1ca160a908bca20cd793.pdf 830c68ec2c7c242752db36857ac47de2 PDF Text Text Volume 73, Number 11 November 2011 SIU Welcomes New Tonnage USNS S William Willi McLean M L Delivered D li d to to MSC; MSC Maerskk Adds Tanker, 2 Heavy-Liftt Ships New and replacement tonnage is being added to the SIU-crewed fleet following three recent developments. Maersk Line, Limited (MLL) in late September christened the ice-strengthened tanker Maersk Peary (directly below) during a ceremony in Norfolk, Va. Earlier, the company announced a joint venture with Rickmers-Linie (America) to flag in two heavy-lift ships under the Stars and Stripes, including the Maersk Texas (second photo below). Also, the U.S. Military Sealift Command has accepted delivery of its newest T-AKE ship, the USNS William McLean (right), pictured during sea trials in San Diego. Another T-AKE is scheduled for christening this month. In the remaining photos on this page, SIU President Michael Sacco (at podium) addresses the audience after the Maersk Peary ceremony while MLL President and CEO John Reinhart (left) and Norfolk Mayor Paul Fraim look on, and SIU crew members (bottom of page) are pictured in front of the tanker. Page 3. Piracy News Pages 4, 6 66941_SIU_Log_X.indd 1 Scholarship Info Page 8 ITF Women’s Leadership Conference Pages 12-13 10/26/2011 12:15:57 PM �President’s Report Maritime: Part of the Solution Since the economic downturn that began four years ago, millions of Americans have lost their jobs, their savings and – in too many cases – their homes. Officially, the national unemployment rate still tops nine percent, but even that grim statistic doesn’t tell the whole story. When factoring in those individuals who are working at jobs not in line with their educational and skill levels, plus those who’ve given up trying to find a job, the percentage shoots up to around 16 percent. Unemployment and under-employment is, I believe, a big factor in the “Occupy Wall Street” demonstration and related ones that are happening across the country. Yes, those rallies are about many issues, but what most of the participants really want and need are jobs. The message hasn’t always been singular or clear, but one point the protesters have made is that our system is badly out of whack – the top one percent is pocketing massive profits and dominating our politics while too many others struggle to make ends meet. As we’ve said in the Michael Sacco labor movement time and time again, it’s time to level the playing field. It’s also time to recognize that the American maritime industry can and must be part of the solution when it comes to putting people back to work. I applaud the efforts being made by President Obama to create jobs for Americans. At the same time, I would urge the administration and Congress to realize that maritime should be a major part of any infrastructure investment. The U.S.-flag maritime industry is a key segment of the U.S. economy. In his speeches across the country, President Obama has drawn attention to several important projects. AFL-CIO President Richard Trumka noted that when he said, “We can no longer delay putting Americans back to work and rebuilding our nation’s schools, roads, bridges, transit, ports, rail, communications and energy systems.” I agree, and further add that not only can the maritime industry, as a vital part of America’s infrastructure, put people to work, it can do so right way. Look no further than the long-talked-about marine highway program as an example. The waterway system already is in place to move cargo from one domestic port to another to ease congestion on highways and the rails. We have well-trained, safety-conscious American citizen crews available to move the goods. But what we need are the ships. We have shipyards closing because of a lack of work, yet our domestic fleet needs modernization if it is to compete with the expected expansion in world trade within the next decade. Additionally, we have ports that have not been dredged in years along the Atlantic, Pacific and Gulf coasts, as well as the Great Lakes. How will America continue to be a major player in international trade if ships cannot enter our harbors? And how will American-made goods get to the ports or imports reach American consumers if we don’t have our highway and rail systems upgraded to meet the needs? America’s maritime unions have well-trained, experienced members ready to do what is needed. We have joint union-management educational facilities that can prepare the current and next generation of mariners for what is to come. We simply need America to refocus its attention to getting our people back to work – and to include the maritime industry in those plans. Of course, as Americans return to the workforce, the budget deficit will shrink. By having people back on the job, they will stimulate the economy, thus more retail jobs will be created. They will resume paying local, state and federal taxes, which will provide needed dollars to repair and replace infrastructure. The SIU stands ready to help as Americans are re-employed, rebuild and recover. Happy Holidays As we head toward the winter holidays, I extend my best wishes to all Seafarers, retirees and their families, as well as to our armed forces all across the globe. Whether you spend the holidays at home, at sea or on deployment, here’s to enjoyable, safe, healthy times. Volume 73, Number 11 November 2011 The SIU online: www.seafarers.org The Seafarers LOG (ISSN 1086-4636) is published monthly by the Seafarers International Union; Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU, AFLCIO; 5201 Auth Way; Camp Springs, MD 20746. Telephone (301) 899-0675. Periodicals postage paid at Southern Maryland 20790-9998. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to the Seafarers LOG, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. Communications Director, Jordan Biscardo; Managing Editor/Production, Jim Guthrie; Assistant Editor, Paddy Lehane; Photographers, Mike Hickey and Harry Gieske; Administrative Support, Misty Dobry. Copyright © 2011 Seafarers International Union, AGLIWD. All Rights Reserved. The Seafarers International Union engaged an environmentally friendly printer for the production of this newspaper. 2 Seafarers LOG 66941_SIU_Log.indd 2 Magee family members in attendance at the dedication included (from left) Bob’s father, Robert P. Magee Sr., wife Marie Magee, daughter Katie Magee Houston, siblings Diane Davidson and Kathy Mitchell, grandson Aedan Houston, son-in-law Joel Houston and brother Kevin Magee. TOTE Names Tacoma-Based Terminal In Memory of Late Leader Bob Magee Highly regarded maritime and Pierce County, Wash., community leader Robert P. “Bob” Magee, who passed away in 2009, was honored Sept. 21 with the naming of Totem Ocean Trailer Express, Inc.’s Tacoma terminal in his memory. SIU Tacoma Port Agent Joe Vincenzo represented the union at the dedication. Overall, approximately 150 people attended the ceremony, including industry and community leaders, extended family members, TOTE customers and employees. Many attendees described Magee as visionary. Following Magee’s passing after a courageous, three-year battle with cancer, TOTE employees rallied around the idea of honoring his memory with a tribute. TOTE President John Parrott stated, “The terminal was perfect because Bob loved Tacoma. He came out of the vessel department and spent so much of his time at our terminal. Even as the CEO of American Shipping Group, TOTE’s parent company, you could always find Bob back down at the terminal on a random afternoon or the morning after a ship sailed.” Phil Morrell, TOTE’s vice president of marine and terminal operations, remembered Magee’s frequent visits to the terminal and how he always stopped to visit with staff members. “When he was at the terminal, he was just Bob,” Morrell said. “He would play a hand of cribbage and was the target of the same razzing if he played a bad hand in the game. No matter the title behind his name, he was always relaxed and at home. The Robert P. Magee Terminal name is proudly displayed on signs at each gated entrance to the terminal, as well as in front of the administration building at 500 Alexander Avenue in Tacoma. Bob Magee began working for TOTE (an SIUcontracted company) in 1986 as vice president of marine operations. He later became president and CEO of TOTE, later chairman of Sea Star Line and then chairman CEO of American Shipping Group. He received numerous awards for maritime and community leadership which now reside in a custom-built display cabinet in the lobby of the administration building. Union Weighs in on STCW Amendments The SIU in late September formally submitted comments to the Department of Transportation concerning proposals for implementing the latest round of amendments to the STCW convention. Specifically, both the union and its affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education responded to a government supplemental notice of proposed rulemaking (SNPRM) titled USCG-200417914, Implementation of the Amendments to the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers, 1978 (STCW), and Changes to Domestic Endorsements. Responding on behalf of the union and school, SIU Executive Vice President Augie Tellez first stated that the industry should be given more than 60 days to constructively examine and further comment upon the SNPRM. (The original deadline for comments was Sept. 30.) “Given the expanse of the document and the subjects covered, we request that the comment period be extended a minimum of 45-60 days to allow sufficient time for stakeholders to comment and provide meaningful recommendations to the supplemental proposal,” he wrote. “In addition, with regard to the provision for new towing endorsements included in the supplemental notice, we recommend that this provision be transferred to the new Subchapter M proposed rulemaking dealing with the inspection of towing vessels. In our view, the creation of the new towing endorsements is unrelated to the STCW, raises serious safety concerns, and should not be fast-tracked as part of a final rule to implement the STCW amendments.” He went on to offer feedback on a number of aspects of the proposed rulemaking, including issues pertaining to application procedures, medical certification, training and certification requirements and more. Excerpts from the jointly submitted comments follow. ■ Medical Certification: There are a number of questions which surfaced while reading the supplemental notice with regard to medical certificate documentation and recordkeeping. Merchant Mariner Credentials (MMC) are valid for five years, yet the medical certificates for STCW endorsements are to be updated every two years with a threemonth grace period while the mariner is sailing internationally. We request clarification and response to the following questions: (1) will the mariner be required to renew his or her STCW endorsements with the Coast Guard every two years when the medical certificate is renewed? (2) will there be an expiration date within the MMC under the international pages for their physical every two years? (3) who will track this information if it is not indicated in the MMC? (4) how will the requirement be enforced? and, (5) will the National Maritime Center (NMC) be able to handle the additional work load associated with a two-year physical as required by the STCW? With regard to the last question, we believe that the NMC will, in fact, become overburdened by the new requirement, leading to mariners facing lengthy delays that could affect the validity of their credentials and their continued ability to earn a livelihood. ■ Course Approval: We are stymied over the changes in the course approval process. Foremost, the supplemental proposal does away with the IMO model course format. One of the instructor qualifications is a course in teaching technologies. For the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship, the training facility affiliated with the SIU and its members, this is a Train the Trainer course which follows IMO Model 6.09 guidance. When a prospective instructor takes this course, he is given copies of IMO models to study, discuss, and ultimately imitate when preparing his [teaching] assignments. All of the school’s 63 Coast Guard approved courses are written in this format. A change in the format will require all 63 courses to be reformatted and all instructors to be retrained in the new organization and language. Additionally, the school’s Continued on Page 9 November 2011 10/24/2011 12:58:53 PM �The newly reflagged tanker will sail to Antarctica and Greenland. Mary Reinhart, the vessel’s godmother, prepares to break a bottle of champagne against the hull. Maersk Adds Tanker, 2 Heavy-Lift Ships SIU-contracted Maersk Line, Limited (MLL), in conjunction with RickmersLinie (America) this month is scheduled to launch two heavy-lift ships that have reflagged under the Stars and Stripes. MLL also on Sept. 30 formally christened the ice-strengthened tanker Maersk Peary during a ceremony in Norfolk, Va. SIU President Michael Sacco was a featured speaker at a Peary post-christening event that also spotlighted Norfolk Mayor Paul Fraim. He commended MLL President and CEO John Reinhart as well as the company as a whole for their commitment to the U.S. Merchant Marine. “Maersk deserves a ton of credit for creating jobs during these rough economic times,” the SIU president stated. “What could be more important at a time like this?” He added that the Peary is “a great resource in the commercial sector for our partners from the Department of Defense,” and pointed out that although the times and shipboard technologies constantly change, one thing that remains the same is America’s need for a strong U.S. Merchant Marine. “Without us, I wouldn’t even want to imagine who we could really count on to deliver the vital supplies to our armed forces,” Sacco stated. “Without us, it would only be a matter of time before the United States became an economic hostage of other countries whose ships call on our ports…. Thanks to partners like John Reinhart and Maersk, we have a structure that works to the benefit of our entire nation.” The Peary embarked on its maiden voyage under the U.S. flag Oct. 1, and is expected to arrive at McMurdo Station, Antarctica, in January 2012 and then at Thule Air Force Base, Greenland, next summer. For the ceremony, the freshly painted, 591-foot ship sat pier-side in downtown Norfolk and was adorned with red, white and blue bunting as distinguished guests, customers, partners, and colleagues welcomed the vessel into MLL’s U.S.-flag fleet. The ship is named after the late Rear Adm. Robert E. Peary, famous for his excursions to the North Pole. It will travel annually to Thule Air Force Base and McMurdo Station delivering fuel to support military operations and research at the top and bottom of the globe. In July, MLL won a long-term time charter from the U.S. Navy’s Military Sealift Command to support these missions. “The name-giving is a great opportunity to honor our customers and partners; reflect on our company’s commitment to the U.S.-flag maritime industry; and celebrate the strengthening of these partnerships,” said Reinhart at the ceremony. “We are fortunate that many of our esteemed guests, colleagues, and Admiral Peary’s descendants have joined us to celebrate our new tanker.” Mrs. Mary Reinhart, the vessel’s godmother and wife of John Reinhart, blessed General Dynamics Delivers USNS William McLean To Military Sealift Command The U.S. Navy’s newest resupply ship, the SIUcrewed USNS William McLean (T-AKE 12) has been delivered by California-based and union-contracted General Dynamics NASSCO. A 689-foot long platform, the McLean was accepted Sept. 28 by the Military Sealift Command during a ceremony at the NASSCO Shipyard in San Diego. She is named in honor of William Burdette McLean, who developed the heat-seeking sidewinder air-to-air missile while serving as a physicist for the Navy. “MSC plays such an important role in the support of the Navy, and the T-AKEs are the future of that role,” said Capt. Robert Baus, the McLean’s civil service mas- November 2011 66941_SIU_Log.indd 3 the ship and broke a bottle of champagne against the vessel’s hull in the time-honored fashion to bring good fortune to the ship and crew. Secretary of Transportation for the Commonwealth of Virginia Sean Connaughton recognized the symbolic importance of the ship’s name. “Vessel name-givings are about a name that the ship carries from port to port worldwide,” said Connaughton. “Maersk is one of the greatest names in the maritime industry. Peary symbolizes the courage of the explorer.” Kevin M. Tokarski, associate administrator for national security at the U.S. Maritime Administration, spoke at the ceremony about the vital role that companies like Maersk Line, Limited have in maintaining our national security. Meanwhile, roughly a week before the event in Norfolk, the heavy-lift reflaggings were announced. MLL and Rickmers-Linie (America), Inc. said they will provide “breakbulk and project cargo shipping” using two newly built, multi-purpose ships to be operated under the U.S. flag. The 19,000 deadweight ton vessels, named Maersk Illinois and Maersk Texas, have a maximum lift of 480 metric tons apiece and are twice the size of U.S.-flag multipurpose vessels currently in operation, according to the companies. The service will operate as Maersk-Rickmers U.S. Flag Project Carrier, Maersk-Rickmers for short. “The introduction of these vessels further signals Maersk Line, Limited’s longterm commitment to the U.S. flag,” added Reinhart. “The partnership with Rickmers forms a strong team that will deliver outstanding service to shippers worldwide.” Pictured from left to right during the ceremony are Capt. Mike Hatton, Maersk Peary Godmother Mary Reinhart and MLL President and CEO John Reinhart. In photo at left, guests celebrate the christening in Norfolk, Va. ter. “It’s very exciting to be a part of this process. I have an outstanding crew, and we are all looking forward to getting underway for a mission.” When fully manned, the McLean will have a crew of 124 civil service mariners—including unlicensed crew members from the SIU’s Government Services Division—and 11 Navy sailors. The ship will begin conducting Combat Logistics Force (CLF) missions in the summer of 2012 following a series of sea trials. “As the 12th ship of its class, William McLean is delivering on cost and ahead of schedule,” said Frank McCarthey, the Auxiliary Ships, Small Boats and Craft program manager for the Navy’s Program Executive Office (PEO) Ships. “This ship will provide invaluable service to the fleet for years to come.” The vessel is the twelfth of 14 new dry cargo/ammunition ships of the T-AKE Class scheduled for delivery to the Navy by the end of 2012. NASSCO began constructing the USNS William McLean in September 2009. The first ship of the class, USNS Lewis and Clark, joined MSC’s fleet in 2006. During the five years since then and including the McLean, 11 NASSCO-built T-AKE Class dry cargo/ ammunition ships have joined the Navy’s fleet and currently are operating as part of the command’s CLF, delivering vital fuel, equipment and supplies to Navy warships at sea. Included are the: USNS Sacagawea, USNS Alan Shepard, USNS Richard Byrd, USNS Robert Peary, USNS Amelia Earhart, USNS Carl Brashear, USNS Wally Schirra, USNS Matthew Perry, USNS Washington Chambers, and USNS Charles Drew. The two remaining vessels in the class, the USNS Medgar Evers (T-AKE 13) and USNS Cesar Chavez (T-AKE 14) are under construction at NASSCO. The Medgar Evars is slated for christening Nov. 12. When all 14 of the dry cargo/ammunition ships are delivered, according to the Navy, 11 are expected to serve in the CLF and the remaining three will be attached to maritime prepositioning squadrons, which strategically place combat cargo at sea for rapid delivery to warfighters ashore. Seafarers LOG 3 10/24/2011 12:58:55 PM �SIU Website’s Member Portal Features New Additions Two features recently were added to the members-only section of the SIU website: one that allows individual Seafarers to view their dues payment history, and another that links to medical claims information for mariners and their dependents. Within the member portal (which may be accessed via the home page at www.seafarers.org or directly at https://members. seafarers.org/), the Dues tab is self-explanatory and straightforward. It contains payment history including copies of receipts as well as reflecting any outstanding dues. It also includes records of contributions to the Maritime Defense League (MDL) and the Seafarers Political Activity Donation (SPAD). Also within the portal, there’s a new Claims History link under the Medical tab. Clicking on the Claims History link will allow members and authorized dependents to view individual claims, dollar amounts paid, and much more. “There’s a wealth of information available through the new Claims History link,” stated SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel. “For example, members and their authorized dependents can check as to whether a deductible was applied, they can see explanations of benefits, and they can search a list of providers. They can also request a replacement or extra ID card, and they can access various medical forms that also are available on the regular SIU website.” Seafarers Plans Administrator Maggie Conference Tackles Piracy On World Maritime Day “Piracy is a crime. It isn’t terrorism.” With those words, Robert Gauvin, executive director of piracy policy for the U.S. Coast Guard, provided the context for the Western Gulf IMO World Maritime Day observance in Port Arthur, Texas, on Sept. 29. Gauvin was one of nine speakers at the all-day event that dealt with the problems of piracy. The conference took place in the Port Arthur International Seafarer Center and was sponsored in part by the Maritime Trades Department, AFL-CIO. During his address, Gauvin pointed out that no one has found a direct link between the attacks by pirates off the coast of Somalia and international terrorism. He added that the U.S. government has implemented a working group consisting of representatives from the Departments of State, Justice, Defense, Transportation and Homeland Security that reports directly to the White House on measures to counter piracy. “We are very different from any flag in the world. We mandate self-defense of our vessels. We have a responsibility,” he stated with regard to America’s efforts to protect its citizen mariners. Protection from piracy was a constant subject for most of the speakers. Owen Doherty, the director for the U.S. Maritime Administration’s office of security, said his agency has teams available to assess possible piracy risks aboard U.S.-flag vessels. He noted the tactics used by pirates change, so mariners have to be prepared for what may happen. Owen Doherty Maritime Administration Director for Office of Security 4 Seafarers LOG 66941_SIU_Log.indd 4 Bowen said the Claims History area “basically is designed as a one-stop shopping section for all types of claims: prescription, dental, vision and regular medical.” (At press time, prescription data still was being incorporated into the site.) In addition to the personalized and Seafarers-specific content, the new area includes My Health Center and My Wellness tabs which in turn offer a bevy of interactive tools, articles and links aimed at promoting good health. For instance, visitors may utilize the My Wellness section to design a customized health program for (among other options) weight management, smoking cessation, nutrition, and more. The My Health Center section includes links to hospital ratings and a video library, plus many other resources. Users may customize content and how it’s displayed by accessing the Dashboard Settings under the My Toolbox tab. As previously reported, the union launched an upgraded, expanded version of its website in June. This is the third version of www.seafarers.org, and it’s the first one to feature a members-only section. Questions about the member portal should be directed to the SIU’s membership assistance program at 1-800-252-4674 or via email at map@seafarers.org. Questions and comments about the rest of the site may be submitted via email at webmaster@seafarers.org. Progress Continues on Piney Point Waterfront The waterfront restoration project at the union-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education continues to go well, according to school Vice President Don Nolan. Plans for the Piney Point, Md., facility include a new pier and seawall, a waterfront park, separate davits for fast rescue boat training and lifeboat training, and more. These photos were taken from mid-September to early October. The development is expected to be finished in 2012. Robert Gauvin U.S. Coast Guard Exec. Director of Piracy Policy Doherty emphasized that communication between the industry and naval assets is very important. Emphasizing their concern for mariners, several speakers expressed dismay about the way pirates are treated while seafarers at times seemingly are considered incidental when attacks occur. Joseph Cox stated ships and cargo generally are insured, but “mariners may or may not be insured.” The president of the Chamber of Shipping of America then said governments “cannot abrogate their responsibilities for the peaceful use of the high seas.” He equated the capture of pirates to a popular hobby: fishing. “It’s a catch-andrelease program,” he said, because there is no set policy for what to do when pirates are seized. “It’s an eighteenth century problem and we are approaching it with twenty first century sensitivity,” Cox remarked. Following up on that point was Capt. George Quick, vice president of the International Organization of Masters, Mates and Pilots (MM&P). “We think about the human rights of the pirates, but not the human rights of the mariners,” Quick pointed out. “Our priorities are backwards.” He told the gathering that 95 percent of the pirates who are captured end up being released and attack again. Quick strongly asserted that commercial vessels should carry armed guards Continued on Page 6 November 2011 10/24/2011 12:58:58 PM �New York/New Jersey MTD Port Maritime Council Spotlights Maritime’s Future While Saluting Its Past With an eye toward the past, the three honorees at the 50th anniversary dinner for the AFL-CIO Maritime Trades Department’s (MTD) Maritime Port Council of Greater New York/New Jersey and vicinity called for a strong U.S.-flag maritime industry to help push the country out of the current rough economic times. MTD President Michael Sacco, who also serves as president of the SIU, received the Paul Hall Award of Merit, named in memory of the late MTD and SIU president. U.S. Rep. Charles Rangel (D-N.Y.) was recognized as the port council’s Government Man of the Year. Retired MTD Executive SecretaryTreasurer Frank Pecquex was honored with the Joseph Sacco Lifetime Achievement Memorial Man of the Year Award. More than 500 people attended the Oct. 15 dinner in New York City. Sacco stated how proud he was to receive the award that is named for the man who brought him ashore to work for the SIU. “I’ll always be grateful for the chance Paul gave to me,” Sacco told the audience. “Never in my wildest dreams did I expect at that age that I’d be president of the SIU and the MTD, and now I’m receiving an award named after the man who gave me my start.” The MTD president then went from looking at where he came from to where he sees the industry heading. “We must carry the banner to educate and remind everyone from the president to the general public about the need for a strong maritime industry,” he stated. “We have to deliver the message that the United States needs American mariners and American ships to deliver vital supplies to our troops, grain to nations that are in trouble, and relief supplies like we did after the earthquake in Haiti.” Sacco also addressed the current state of affairs by saying, “And we must help everyone realize that those people demonstrating down on Wall Street don’t want attention – they want JOBS! We, as a nation, need to wake up and realize we have the ability to employ them.” Introducing Sacco at the dinner were SIU Executive Vice President (and MTD Board Member) Augie Tellez and Capt. Bob Johnston, senior vice president for OSG. Tellez praised Sacco’s leadership of the U.S.-flag maritime industry and the Seafarers. He also said he “could not have had a better teacher than Mike.” Speaking on behalf of the industry, Johnston stated when Sacco gives you his word, it’s solid. Congressman Rangel thanked the port council for recognizing his years of work to support the maritime industry. “Creating jobs and supporting our maritime workers is so important, now more than ever. As we continue to look for ways to reduce unemployment, the maritime industry will play a major role in rebuilding our infrastructure and can put people to work right away,” he observed. Rangel added he appreciated the way the maritime industry has stood by him, just as he has always fought for its interests. The New York representative noted he was being called back to Washington by President Obama to attend the dedication of the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial. He Maritime Industry Urges Support For Cargo Preference SIU Executive Vice President Augie Tellez and other maritime labor and company officials on Oct. 3 attended an open forum on an important program that greatly affects Seafarers and the industry at large. The multi-component program known as cargo preference stipulates that a certain percentage of U.S.-made or U.S.-funded items must be shipped on American vessels with American crews. The meeting was organized by the Maritime Administration (MarAd), whose stated goal was to open up the issue to public discussion. Tellez and other speakers pointed out that cargo preference law enforcement is becoming increasingly more important to the maritime industry. With overseas conflicts starting to wind down, non-military cargo is going to become a more vital source of income for shipping companies and subsequently for merchant mariners. “We in the maritime industry understand the critical need for our cargo preference laws, particularly those that affect food aid, our loan guarantee programs and other nondefense cargoes,” said Tellez. “As Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom wind down after almost a decade, our industry needs to find cargo wherever it can, and we recognize we cannot continue to rely on the Pentagon for everything. Non-defense cargo is more important now than it has ever been.” Maritime Trades Department, AFL-CIO (MTD) Executive Secretary-Treasurer Daniel Duncan was also on hand at the meeting expressing the department’s support for cargo preference laws. “The MTD firmly believes that the nation’s series of cargo preference laws is a bedrock of the U.S.-flag maritime industry,” said Duncan. “These laws have played a vital role in ensuring that America has a strong domestic shipbuilding base and merchant marine. Cargo preference laws help create good-paying jobs for American workers, provide tax revenues at the local, state, and federal levels, and make sure America’s merchant marine is ready and available when needed for strategic sealift and other defense November 2011 66941_SIU_Log_X.indd 5 Standing left to right are MTD/SIU President Michael Sacco, U.S. Rep. Charlie Rangel (D-N.Y.) and SIU VP Atlantic Coast Joseph Soresi (who also serves as president of the New York/New Jersey Port Maritime Council). used that announcement to reflect on how hectic life can be and to thank the spouses of those who work for unions. Those spouses understand the long hours spent away from family working not only on behalf of rankand-file members but all working families, he pointed out. Port Council President Joseph Soresi, who also serves as vice president of the SIU’s Atlantic Coast region, saluted the congressman as a longtime champion of the U.S.-flag interests.” The Marine Engineers’ Beneficial Association (MEBA) and the International Organization of Masters, Mates, and Pilots (MM&P) also jointly voiced their support for cargo preference laws and talked about the impact that they have on their respective memberships. “There should be no question that, in order to grow and maintain the U.S. Merchant Marine, U.S.-flagged vessels should be used to the greatest extent possible when shipping government-impelled cargoes,” said William Doyle of MEBA. “Rigorous enforcement and oversight of cargo preference laws enables MarAd to fulfill its mission. Without oversight and enforcement from MarAd, the presence of the U.S.-flag fleet in the foreign trades would cease to exist, leaving a glaring hole in our national defense capabilities SIU Exec. VP Augie Tellez and negatively impacting our economy.” Other speakers pointed out the economic importance the laws have on private shipowners and the costs that are deferred from the government because of them. Cargo preference laws, according to several presenters, provide an economically efficient was to bolster private industry and support jobs. “Virtually every privately owned U.S.-flag vessel engaged in the foreign trade depends to some degree on cargo preference to remain economically viable,” said Bill Kenwell of Maersk Line, Limited on behalf of USA Maritime, an industry group consisting of shipowners, operators, and Merchant Marine and all working families. Soresi presented the award to Rangel. Courtney Pecquex stood in for her father, who was unable to attend the dinner. She read the remarks Frank had planned to offer. In his introduction of Pecquex, SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel noted Frank’s nearly 45 years of service to the MTD and SIU. Heindel said Pecquex’s “efforts behind the scenes have helped the lives of countless working families.” labor groups. “Indeed, absent cargo preference, it is no exaggeration at all to say that the U.S.-flag fleet in foreign commerce would disappear and the U.S. government would have to duplicate that sealift capability at enormous expense with government-owned vessels.” In spite of these facts, however, many in the room were disappointed with MarAd’s efforts to enforce cargo preference laws. Even with revisions made by Congress that would bolster the programs, the agency’s efforts are still seen as lacking. “If I had to sum up our feelings about MarAd’s performance when it comes to cargo preference matters in one word, that word would be frustration,” said Tellez, pointing to long vacancies in important MarAd positions and the lack of implementation of a three-year-old revision that punishes entities that don’t adhere to cargo preference rules. Richard Berkowitz of the Transportation Institute, another maritime industry group composed of multiple sectors, agreed. “Judging from the lengthy time it has taken to fill key management positions at MarAd related to cargo preference administration, it is difficult to believe that the administration’s role to ‘promote … the viability of the U.S. Merchant Marine’ is being taken with the earnestness and purpose needed to direct the government-impelled cargo so key to sustaining U.S. vessels in international trade lanes,” said Berkowitz. Liberty Maritime Corporation CEO Philip Shapiro sent a letter to MarAd to throw his company’s support behind USA Maritime’s statements but added that the agency could be doing more in regards to cargo preference. “Liberty Maritime would only like to add that it is imperative that the U.S. Maritime Administration place a high priority on cargo preference implementation and enforcement,” said Shapiro. “Congress has charged MarAd with ensuring that cargo preference achieves its objectives of supporting a strong and vibrant U.S.-flag Merchant Marine.” In spite of some complaints, the SIU and others at the meeting reinforced their eagerness to work with the administration. “The cargo preference laws work when they are properly enforced,” said Tellez. “They work when the resources needed to ensure that they’re being enforced are there. I am confident that MarAd can resolve these issues swiftly and I look forward to working with the agency in the future as we all strive to promot and protect our merchant marine.” Seafarers LOG 5 10/26/2011 12:15:58 PM �New Initiative Aims to Help Victims of Piracy A major program has been announced that aims to help mariners and their families around the world who have been victims of abuse at the hands of pirates. The initiative, dubbed the Maritime Piracy Humanitarian Response Program (MPHRP), is being supported by a wide variety of maritime industry groups including shipowners, operators, labor organizations and others. The SIU is backing the measure through the International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF). On Sept. 29, the organizations launching the MPHRP called a press conference to announce the formation of the program and to draw attention to the increasing human cost of piracy. Pirates have been abusing, torturing and threatening captured mariners at an alarming rate, the organizations pointed out. Pirates also sometimes keep crews captive for months at a time, with limited communication to their families and the outside world in general. This places a great emotional and financial burden on the families, who are often wracked with anxiety and fear about the wellbeing of their loved ones, the ITF and others reported. The formal announcement of the MPHRP, distributed by the ITF, said that due in part to potentially large ransoms, hijacking ships and taking crews hostage has turned into a low-risk, high-gain enterprise. Due to the large amounts of money involved, according to the MPHRP, competition has increased among pirates themselves and the stakes have been raised significantly to convince parties to pay the ransoms. This has led to an increase in the violence and barbarity by the pirates during the last few years. The program is quick to point out that many positive steps have been taken to confront piracy on the seas, but much more is needed to ensure the safety of seafarers travelling dangerous waters. “Despite numerous diplomatic, military and other initiatives by many governments and governmental agencies, particularly in the Indian Ocean, and the protective measures and other actions adopted by shipowners, ship managers and their representatives, ships are still regularly attacked and seafarers put at risk as they go about their legitimate business in international waters,” said MPHRP Chairman Dr. Peter Swift. “While acknowledging the actions of governments, the United Nations (UN) and the International Maritime Organization (IMO), the shipping industry has recognized that more needs to be done to support seafarers and their families.” The program is devoted to helping captured seafarers and their families in a variety of ways. With the help of a taskforce composed of experts from around the world, thorough investigations and interviews with victims, and an emphasis on anti-piracy training, the MHRHP hopes to become a major force for advocating on behalf of the often forgotten human cost of piracy. “Seafarers naturally play a pivotal role in any piracy incident and the appropriate preparations are integral to their wellbeing, as well as ultimately also to that of their families, and to the overall outcome of the incident,” said Swift. “Similarly, there is a need to ensure that the appropriate support is available to them and their families during and post any incident.” With that sentiment in mind, the program has begun developing a new system whose aim is to assist mariners who sail in potentially dangerous waters. These include a “good practice” guide for use by shipping companies, employers, and others who hire mariners that will provide the companies with strategies to help crews and their families through the crisis in three stages: before the workers head out to sea, during their capture, and after their release. The program also is calling for ready access to medical care (both mental and physical) upon a mariner’s release and will establish a 24-hour hotline for seafarers in crisis all around the world. “In our fact-finding interviews it be- Dr. Marion Gibson, a consultant to the initiative, says mariners are resilient but also are deserving of help. Dr. Peter Swift is heading up the new program. came evident that humanitarian support was needed before, during and after such incidents,” said Dr. Marion Gibson, a consultant to the program. “We recognize that seafarers and their families are a resilient group of people. We feel that training and information sharing pre-deployment could help to prepare for such incidents if they do occur. During an attack, pre-training in how to handle the psychological reactions which may be experienced in conditions of captivity could minimize some of the negative feelings for those involved. If companies and seafarers can give the families knowledge that a plan exists to support them ‘in the unlikely situation of a piracy attack’ this can help alleviate immediate fears of being ‘forgotten’ in the process.” The MPHRP is already making plans to expand upon its efforts and do more to help the victims of piracy. “The …program is not only a program which reacts to an incident, but it aims to prevent some of the negative results of such attacks through a health promotion approach involving pre-training and informed preparation prior to any attack happening,” said Gibson. “We will also conduct research into all the aspects of our work which will allow us to adapt the program as it develops and inform those who will be involved in the future.” The launch took place in London and was attended by members of the maritime community including Rear Admiral Hank Ort of NATO; Bishop Joseph Kalathiparambil, secretary of the Pontifical Council for the Pastoral Care of Migrants and Itinerant People; Cyrus Mody, International Maritime Bureau; Capt. Andy Winbow, assistant secretary-general of the IMO; Andrew Higgs, IUMI; Len Holder, Videotel; Janet Strode, IPTA; Suresh Idnani, IMHA; Jon Whitlow, ITF; Andy Buxton, ISAN; Tom Holmer, ITF Seafarers Trust; Rodger MacDonald, IFS; Pauline Marchand, IGP&I; Maarten Versluis, NATO; Stein Hagalid, NATO; Kostiantyn Billiar, Deputy Permanent Representative of Ukraine to the IMO; Angus Miller, FCO; Kuba Szymanski, InterManager; Cherian Oommen, SIGTTO; Suresh Idnani, IMHA; Hennie La Grange, ICMA; Martin Foley, ICMA/AoS; Rodger MacDonald, IFS; Lynda Brockbank, Hostage UK; Ake Selander, OUIS, and others. World Maritime Day Event in Port Arthur, Texas Highlights Problems of Piracy on the High Seas Continued from Page 4 or military personnel. “Seafarers should not be armed,” he stated. He also voiced concern that best practices call for a citadel or secure room where crew may escape from pirates boarding a vessel. Such a location is good if rescue is imminent, he noted, but what happens to the mariners if they are huddled in such a small space for several days? Another speaker, Capt. Derek McCann, said situations like the one mentioned by Quick can lead to anxiety and depression. These problems grow if the crew is captured and held for months at a time because they do not get resupplied with food and/or fuel, added the honorary chair of the Nautical Institute – Gulf Branch. McCann reiterated that the pirates’ actions are a criminal activity against the world. Father Sinclair Oubre, host for the event, showed video of crew members discussing their captivity with pirates holding Pictured from left to right are event host Fr. Sinclair Oubre, SIU Asst. VP Jim McGee and Port Agent Mike Russo. 6 Seafarers LOG 66941_SIU_Log_X.indd 6 rifles in the background. Oubre, who is president of the Apostleship of the Sea, USA and a member of the SIU, said people should “remember the mariners and their families. This is not just about the ship and cargo.” Offering insight into the fight against piracy was Stan Ayscue, whose company provides trained armed guards to merchant ships. He called on shipowners to study world affairs to see when and where protection is needed. He said mariners should be concerned when in areas that have seen piracy because it helps them focus and stay alert. Capt. Kudleep Singh of Gallagher Marine Systems equated a pirate attack as being “as frightening as a shark coming to you.” He stated mariners must drill and constantly be prepared because “if there are ships, there will be pirates.” Finally, Texas historian Larry Looney placed some perspective on Port Arthur hosting a conference on piracy. The privateer Jean Lafitte was known to have used ports in what is now southeastern Texas and southwestern Louisiana as safe harbors following the 1803 Louisiana Purchase. In Their Own Words Editor’s note: The following is testimony from various victims of piracy including family members and mariners themselves. The quotes were released along with the recent announcement of the Maritime Piracy Humanitarian Response Program. An Italian wife talks about what is happening to her family I haven’t heard from my husband now for seven months. The last time we spoke he told me about the diminution of food and water availability and depletion of fuel for air conditioners. Death threats to the hostages have increased. I have lost all faith in the institutions and the government officers. There are no longer any contacts between pirates and the Foreign Ministry. This makes me very much concerned and even agitated. What is life without any news? My great concern is that last time we spoke my husband told me about the threats of decapitation. An Indian third engineer recalls his experience We were hijacked for about six months. The pirate group (at times) was cooperative but sometimes they used to torture us. The engine room was unmanned and the crew cooperated to manage machineries. The pirates had once opened fire in air to scare the engine staff as they needed the air conditioning plant to get operational. They want the job to be carried out in a minute’s time which was not possible. Some crew were even tied up for few minutes as a way of showering their anger on innocent seafarers. A Ukrainian mariner tells of the pirates’ regime and punishments The pirates had a very strict chain of command and were well-organized. They had a strict system of punishments and penalties. They put a kind of a price list with punishments on the walls. The cheapest penalty started from U.S. $5,000. Once I saw two of the pirates fight with each other and one of their officers shot one dead and then tied up the other in a very uncomfortable position. Then he left the tied guy on the open deck for a few hours, next to killed one. An Indian father shares his story When we heard the news of our son’s vessel being hijacked, we were totally broken up and did not know whom to approach. The company initially was very optimistic of bringing back our son from the hands of pirates. It took eight long months for them to negotiate with those monsters. We ran from pillar to post, all related government agencies and unions were contacted and appealed to help us. But nothing worked out. It all ended when the company agreed to pay a huge ransom amount to the pirates. November 2011 10/26/2011 12:16:01 PM �General Fraser Takes Helm at TRANSCOM The United States Transportation Command (TRANSCOM) has a new commander. He is Air Force Gen. William M. Fraser III, former commander, Air Combat Command, with headquarters at Langley Air Force Base, Va., and Air Component Commander for U.S. Joint Forces Command. Fraser assumed his new duties during change of command ceremonies presided by Secretary of Defense Leon Panetta Oct. 14 at Headquarters, TRANSCOM, Scott AFB, Ill. He replaced Gen. Duncan J. McNabb, a staunch ally of the U.S. Merchant Marine, who had been at the TRANSCOM helm since September 2008. McNabb is slated to retire effective Nov. 30 following an Air Force career which has spanned some 37 years. Army Gen. Martin E. Dempsey, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, was the first to speak during the ceremony and lauded the efforts of U.S. Transportation Command. “I can’t imagine what we did to integrate our transportation activities before there was a TRANSCOM,” said Dempsey. “I want to congratulate those former commanders … and thank the young men and women who have served and are serving in TRANSCOM, because we couldn’t be the armed forces we are without you. “The foundation of our profession is trust,” added Dempsey. “What you do for our armed forces enables that trust to occur.… We are the only military in the world that if we call for something … if we need something on the battlefield, we’re going to get it. And nine times out of 10, it will get there because of TRANSCOM.” In assuming his new command, General Fraser said, “TRANSCOM has earned a tremendous reputation of getting the job done, and I expect nothing short of your continued excellence.… I count myself among the very fortunate to serve with you. “These are challenging times, but this is also an amazing time to be a part of TRANSCOM because with challenges comes opportunity,” he continued, “and every individual in this command … has the opportunity to make a real difference. It’s not the planes, it’s not the trains, the ships or the trucks that make things happen … it is the people.” Fraser entered the Air Force in 1974 as a distinguished graduate of the Texas A&M University ROTC program. His operational assignments include duty as a T-37, B-52, B-1, and B-2 instructor pilot and evaluator. Fraser has commanded an operations group and two bomb wings. His staff duties include tours on the Air Staff, Joint Staff, and Joint Strategic Target Planning Staff at Offutt Air Force Base, Neb. The general has also served as chief of the Nuclear Requirements Cell at Supreme Headquarters Allied Powers Europe, chief of staff for U.S. Strategic Command, Assistant to the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff and the 34th Air Force Vice Chief of Staff, Headquarters U.S. Air Force, Washington, D.C. Fraser has extensive wartime, contingency and humanitarian relief operational experience. During Operation Enduring Freedom he led an intelligence fusion organization that provided direct support to the warfighter. Panetta took the podium and acknowl- Gen. William M. Fraser III Gen. Duncan McNabb edged TRANSCOM’s accomplishments under Gen. McNabb’s command. “We take time today to honor the quiet service and immense contribution of all of the men and women of this command.... USTRANSCOM directs a truly extraordinary and unceasing effort to sustain our operations around the globe. [It’s] a logistics enterprise that I believe is unmatched in scale and unequal in effectiveness,” Panetta said. “Together with your components, you are the backbone of our military, the support structure upon which everything else hinges. Under General McNabb, this command has faced one of the most demanding periods in history,” Panetta added, “and it has excelled.” McNabb thanked those who served under his command. “You are indeed the lifeline of the force … sustaining our warfighters with the care and zeal only you can provide.” McNabb said. “We’ve rewritten strategic transportation history.” TRANSCOM, one of nine combatant commands, provides air, land and sea transportation, terminal management and aerial refueling to support the global deployment, employment, sustainment and redeployment of U.S. forces. Its components include the Army’s Military Surface Deployment and Distribution Command and Air Force’s Air Mobility Command, Navy’s Military Sealift Command in Washington, D.C., and the Joint Enabling Capabilities Command, Norfolk, Va. Congressmen Introduce Bipartisan Legislation To Safeguard Jobs in U.S. Maritime Industry Working to create and preserve American jobs, Congressmen Elijah E. Cummings (D-Md.) and Jeff Landry (R-La.) on Oct. 14 introduced the American Mariners Job Protection Act (H.R. 3202), a bill with bipartisan support that will increase government transparency surrounding the issuance of waivers allowing non-Jones Act-qualified vessels to carry cargo between U.S. ports. Under current law, when the head of the agency responsible for the administration of the Jones Act believes it necessary to waive the Act’s requirements in the interest of national defense, the agency must request the Maritime Administration to assess whether Jones Act-qualified vessels are available to carry the cargo under consideration. The American Mariners Job Protection Act would require the Maritime Administration to include in such assessments information on the actions that could be taken to enable Jones Act-qualified vessels to carry the cargo for which the Jones Act waiver is sought. The Maritime Administration would also be required to publish its determinations on its website. Further, the American Mariners Job Protection Act would require notification to be provided to Congress when a waiver is requested or issued. “Our first priority in this Congress is to create and preserve jobs for Americans,” said Cummings. “This Act will increase transparency to strengthen adherence to the Jones Act and ensure we make full use of American maritime capabilities. I want to make certain that every Jones Act-qualified ship that can carry cargo is full and that every American mariner who is ready to earn a good day’s wage for a good day’s work is able to do so. This bill will do that. I thank Congressman Landry and other members on both sides of the aisle for working with me, and I hope this common-sense solution will be quickly considered and enacted.” Landry, whose district has the most domestic maritime industry jobs in the nation and transports much of the nation’s energy-based resources, is hopeful the bipartisan support of the legislation will mean prompt passage and put Americans back to work. November 2011 66941_SIU_Log.indd 7 “American mariners are the most qualified and safest workers in the world; we must ensure that they are being fully utilized,” he said. “I know the American Mariners Job Protection Act will give Americans much-desired government transparency and ensure that the American mariner is always the first option. I thank Congressman Cummings for his leadership on this issue and look forward to working with him in getting this bill passed.” Cummings and Landry introduced the American Mariners Job Protection Act following the issuance of Jones Act waivers to allow foreign vessels and foreign workers to transport petroleum products recently released from the Strategic Petroleum Reserve. Even though the legislation was just introduced, it already has strong support, including from the SIU. “The Seafarers International Union strongly supports all Congressional efforts to increase transparency, particularly when it comes to the Strategic Petroleum Reserve. We are pleased to support the bipartisan legislation introduced today by Congressmen Cummings and Landry and hope that Congress acts promptly to resolve this issue,” said SIU Executive Vice President Augie Tellez. The American Waterways Operators (AWO) – the national trade association for the tugboat, towboat and barge industry – praised the initiative. AWO President & CEO Thomas Allegretti said, “The 46 waivers to the Jones Act granted this summer – more than any in the history of our nation – shows us that this legislation is necessary to tighten up the national security requirements for waivers and to improve transparency in the waiver process. The industry, and the men and women who depend on it for their jobs, salute Congressmen Cummings and Landry for their leadership on this critical issue.” The other original co-sponsors of H.R. 3202 include Rep. Bennie Thompson (D-Miss.), Rep. Peter King (R-N.Y.), Rep. Candice Miller (R-Mich.), Rep. Frank LoBiondo (R-N.J.), Rep. Corrine Brown (DFla.), Rep. Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), Rep. Nick Rahall (D-W.Va.), and Rep. Rick Larsen (D-Wash). Maritime Briefs Crowley Recognized for Safety Crowley Maritime, an SIU-contracted company, was honored by the San Pedro, Calif., Chamber of Commerce on Oct. 4 for its environmental efforts. The company recently repowered the main engines and generators of its harbor tugs, the SIUcrewed Admiral, Leader, Scout, and Master to improve their emissions and energy efficiency. These improvements were made ahead of schedule. The advances resulted in major decreases in emissions from the boats, helping the environment both at sea and ashore. Historic Cargo Delivered The SIU-crewed Alliance Beaumont delivered an historically significant piece of cargo last August. The vessel delivered the last M1A1 Abrams tank for use by the Iraqi military to the port of Umm Qasr, Iraq. The Iraqi government ordered 140 American-made Abrams tanks in order to help modernize their military and increase their security. The delivery made by the Alliance Beaumont marked the completion of the sale. The vessel is operated by Maersk Line, Limited. Federation Stands Up for Jobs In response to austerity measures brought on by the Greek financial crisis, mariners in that country have organized a variety of measures that will attempt to fight back against government attacks on seafarers’ pensions, job security, and pay. The Pan-Hellenic Seamen’s Federation, which is associated with the SIU through the International Transport Workers’ Federation, organized two-day strikes that were set to start in midOctober. In addition to standing up for rank-and-file jobs, the union is also demanding that national shipowners reenter collective bargaining agreements. AMMV Chapter Meets in Ft. Lauderdale The Gulfstream Chapter of the American Merchant Marine Veterans conducts its monthly meeting on the third Saturday of each month, excluding July and August. The meetings take place at the SIU hall at 1221 S. Andrews Ave., Ft. Lauderdale, Fla. at 1 p.m. The meetings are open to the Naval Armed Guard as well as all merchant mariners. New members are always welcome. For more information, call 954-720-1613. Seafarers LOG 7 10/24/2011 12:59:03 PM �SHBP Announces 2012 Scholarship Program 15 Seafarers, 45 Dependents Claim Previous Awards Totaling in Excess of $1 Million Seafarers and dependents who are interested in furthering their education but need financial assistance should explore the scholarship opportunities being offered by the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan (SHBP). The SHBP each year offers scholarships to qualified Seafarers and dependents who are hoping to continue their education. Designed to ease the financial challenges associated with college and vocational studies, the 2012 SHBP Scholarship Program will offer eight awards totaling $132,000. Three scholarships will be designated for Seafarers and five will be targeted for spouses and dependents. One of the endowments reserved for Seafarers totals $20,000 and is intended to help defray the costs associated with attending a four-year, college-level course of study. The remaining two are in the amount of $6,000 each and are designed as two-year awards for study at a postsecondary vocational school or community college. Each of the five scholarships for spouses and dependents is for $20,000. Now is an ideal time to begin the application process. The first step is to send for the 2012 SHBP Scholarship Program booklet. The package contains eligibility information, procedures for applying for the scholarships and an application form. To obtain a copy of this handout, simply complete the form which appears below and return it to the address provided. As an alternative to requesting a package through the mail, they also are available at SIU halls. Once the scholarship booklet has been received, applicants should check the eligibility criteria to determine if they are eligible to participate. They should also begin collecting and assembling the remainder of the paperwork needed to submit with the full application, which must be received by April 15, 2012. Items that need to be incorporated in the final application package include transcripts and certificates of graduation. Since some institutions respond slowly in handling transcript needs, requests should be made as early as possible. Letters of recommendation – solicited from individuals who know the applicant’s character, personality and career goals – should be included as part of the application package. A high-quality photograph and a certified copy of the applicant’s birth certificate are also required and should accompany the package. A scholarship selection committee, consisting of a panel of professional educators, will examine the high school grades of all applicants as well as evaluate scores from their Scholastic Aptitude Tests (SAT) and American College Tests (ACT). Accordingly, arrangements should be made by applicants who have not done so to take these tests no later than February 2012. Doing so will virtually assure that the results reach the evaluation committee in time for review. Seafarers and dependents who previously applied for the scholarship program and were not selected are encouraged to apply again this year, provided they still meet the eligibility requirements. Don’t allow the rapidly increasing costs of higher education prevent you from realizing your goals—the SHBP Scholarship Program can make the same difference for you that it has for years made for other Seafarers and dependents. In the last eight years alone, the SHBP has awarded more than $1 million in scholarships to 15 Seafarers and 45 dependents. A breakdown of these awards (by year) is as follows: ■ 2011 - Three active Seafarers and five dependents shared grants totaling $132,000. Seafarers designated to receive these awards were: AB Cleveland Foy, AB Timothy Squire Jr., and AB Judith Merwin. Dependents claiming scholarships included: Randi Isenhart, daughter of Inland Captain Randy Isenhart; Nermine Abdelwahab, daughter of AB Mohamed Abadelwahab; Hailey Grubbs, daughter of Recertified Bosun Robert Grubbs; Allison Matias, daughter of Chief Cook Efren Matias; and Gabrielle Camacho, daughter of AB Noel Camacho. ■ 2010 - $146,000 in scholarships was awarded under the SHBP’s 2010 scholarship program. Recipients included Recertified Bosun Lon Oliver; Robert Firme, son of Steward Roberto A. Firme; Alisha Wood, daughter of AB Wilbert E. Wood; Margot O’Meara, daughter of retired Inland Master James O’Meara; Eizie Giray, daughter of deep sea Bosun Rufino J. Giray; Jacob Miller, son of retired Chief Engineer Marlin Miller; Sime Masnov, son of Chief Engineer Marijan Masnov; and Molly Johnson, daughter of the late Bosun Michael Johnson. Please send me the 2012 SHBP Scholarship Program Booklet which contains eligibility information, procedures for applying and a copy of the application form. Name.............................................................................................................................................................................. Street Address............................................................................................................................................................... City, State, Zip Code.................................................................................................................................................... Telephone Number ( ) ........................................................................................................................................... This application is for: Mail this completed form to: ❏ Self ❏ Dependent Scholarship Program Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 Union Plus Offers Financial Aid to College-Bound Union Members, Dependents Applications for the 2012 Union Plus Scholarship Program are now being accepted, according to officials at Union Privilege. One-time cash awards, the scholarships range in amounts from $500 to $4,000 and will be awarded to union members, their spouses and dependents who plan to pursue higher education degrees beginning in the fall of 2012. In total, $150,000 in scholarships will be provided. Eligibility criteria ■ Because the SIU participates in Union Plus, current and retired union members, their spouses and their dependent children (including foster children, stepchildren, and any other child for whom the individual member provides greater than 50 8 Seafarers LOG 66941_SIU_Log.indd 8 percent of his or her support) can apply for a Union Plus Scholarship. Grandchildren are not eligible unless a legal dependent (as defined by IRS regulations). Participating union members from the U.S., Puerto Rico, Guam and the U.S. Virgin Islands and Canada are eligible to participate. ■ Members do not have to purchase any Union Plus program product or participate in any Union Plus programs to apply for the scholarships, and scholarship awards are not based upon participation in a Union Plus program. ■ At least one year of continuous union membership by the applicant, applicant’s spouse or parent (if applicant is a dependent) is required in order to participate. The one year membership minimum must be satisfied by May 31, 2012. ■ This is a competitive scholarship. Applicants will be evaluated according to academic ability, social awareness, financial need and appreciation of labor. A GPA of 3.0 or higher is recommended. ■ The applicant must be accepted into a U.S. accredited college or university, community college, technical or trade school at the time the award is issued. Awards must be used for the 2012 - 2013 school year. ■ Undergraduate and graduate students are eligible. ■ 2009 – Two Seafarers and six dependents were awarded $132,000 in scholarships. Claiming these grants were: Recertified Steward Brandon Maeda; QMED Robert Oliveto; Jeffrey Monteiro, son of Deep Sea Engineer Francis Monteiro; Bethany Horner, daughter of inland Captain Arthur Horner; Matthew Taylor, son of inland Captain Rodger Taylor; Jillian Cairco, daughter of retired Deep Sea Chief Engineer Gary Jarvis; Giselle Bodden, daughter of inland AB-Tankerman Albert Bodden; and Alyssa Rothschild, daughter of inland Chief Mate Robert Rothschild. ■ 2008 – Scholarships totaling $140,000 awarded to AB Peter R. Hokenson; Brittany Redding, daughter of Chief Steward Dennis Redding; Christopher Wozunk, son of FOWT John Wozunk; Benjamin Wilmoth, son of QE Wendel Wilmoth; Albert Balatico, son of AB Albert Balatico; Xiao Xiao Li, daughter of SA Meli Seegers; and Sidney Kirk, daughter of AB Robert Kirk. ■ 2007 – $120,000 in endowments were awarded to Sarah Abdelwahab, daughter of AB Mohamed Abdelwahab; Alice Cooper, daughter of tugboat Captain James Cooper III; Nicole LaPointe, daughter of AB Robert LaPointe; Justine Lopez, daughter of Oiler Oswaldo Lopez; Marian O’Neill, daughter of QMED Guillermo O’Neill Jr.; and Jenna Stillman, daughter of AB Jerry Stillman. ■ 2006 – Gifts totaling $132,000 were bestowed upon Seafarers Rahul Bagehi, Ken Stathos, Karen Domerego, and Brian McLarnon. Dependents selected were: Renee Dunham-Jones, wife of Recertified Steward Raymond Jones; Ryan Kirby, son of deep sea member Michael Kirby; Suci Madjidji, daughter of QMED Sjamsidar Madjidji; Shaval Stewart, daughter of AB Mark Stewart; and Kayla Watson, daughter of AB/Tankerman Randy Watson. ■ 2005 –Three Seafarers and five dependents received $132,000 in funding. Seafarers selected were Chief Cook Kristen Swain, Brandon Maeda and Jeanette Montgomery. Dependents receiving scholarships were Adam Burton, son of Ross Burton; Ashleigh Coppola, daughter of Patrick L. Coppola; Stefan Nikolic, son of Desire Z. Nikolic; Anthony Sabatini, son of Anthony J. Sabatini; and Ronald Viernes, son of Leopold A. Viernes. ■ 2004 – Six individuals—one active Seafarer and five dependents—shared $106,000 in scholarship awards. Mark A. Dyer claimed the Seafarers scholarship. He was joined by dependents Mary A. Hornby, daughter of James L. Hornby; Eleanor R. Preston, daughter of Chester W. Preston; Aaron J. Gibson, son of James O. Gibson; Rafika J. Shibly, daughter of Mohammed Shibly; and Glenys I. Castro, daughter of Salome M. Castro. To receive consideration for these scholarships, an applicant must complete and submit an application package This year’s application is entirely online which allows prospective students to complete their applications over time and save their responses. Those interested in applying should visit www.unionplus.org/education. All packages must be received by Union Plus on or before 11:59 p.m. (Eastern Time) Jan. 31, 2012. Applications received after this deadline will not be considered. All applications will be judged by a committee of impartial post-secondary educators. This committee will determine recipients of scholarship awards by May 31, 2012. During the first two weeks of June 2012 award recipients will be individually notified by mail, and all applicants will be sent an email with notification that the award list is posted at UnionPlus.org/ Scholarships. Due to the volume of applications, Union Plus cannot provide any information on the status of an application before award announcements are made. The Union Plus Scholarship Program since 1992 has awarded in excess of $3.2 million to students of union families. More than 2,100 union families have benefited from Union Plus’ commitment to higher education. November 2011 10/24/2011 12:59:04 PM �Ohioans Register Win For Working Families Coalition of Supporters Get Repeal of SB 5 on November Ballot Supporters of working families who oppose the highly controversial Ohio Collective Bargaining Bill – Senate Bill 5 or SB 5 – have achieved their goal of protecting workers’ rights by putting a referendum on the November ballot to have the measure repealed. Led by the organization We Are Ohio, teachers, firefighters, and unions in Ohio – including members of officials from the Seafarers-affiliated United Industrial Workers (UIW) – in April united forces and launched a drive to collect signatures to place the measure before voters in the November elections. A minimum of 1,000 Ohio voter signatures were required before official petition language could be approved and circulated. After that, backers of collective bargaining rights needed to collect more than 231,000 additional signatures by a July deadline to get the referendum on the November ballot. Both requirements were met and a referendum on the contentious law officially has been certified for the November ballot, with several hundred thousand valid signatures to spare. Ohio Secretary of State Jon Husted’s office in mid-July certified as valid 915,456 of the nearly 1.3 million signatures collected by We Are Ohio. The group only was required to have at least 231,149 valid signatures, though certain thresholds had to be met in half of the state’s 88 counties. Now that the measure has been certified as a referendum item, there is another situation that voters should know about, according to We Are Ohio: The law will no longer be known as SB 5 nor will it be called that on the November ballot. According to the organization, SB 5 is now “Issue 2,” and that is how it will appear. When Governor Kasich signed Senate Bill 5 into law, the fight to get it off the ballot turned into the fight not against Senate Bill 5, but State Issue Two, the organization said. “We Are Ohio is pleased that Ohio Sec- retary of State Husted and the Ohio Ballot Board chose to follow the Ohio constitution and legal precedent by making a ‘no’ vote on Issue 2 a vote to repeal SB 5,” said Melissa Fazekas, spokeswoman for We Are Ohio. “While our opposition may try to play political tricks to confuse voters, [the] decision by the Ohio Ballot Board will make that harder. Now that another hurdle has been cleared, We Are Ohio is focused on making sure our more than 1.3 million supporters know to vote ‘no’ on Issue 2 in November.” “A no vote on Issue 2 will completely erase SB 5 from the books,” said UIW Vice President Great Lakes Bob Love. “So I challenge our union brothers and sisters to keep working hard to get the message out that if this bill remains on the books all of us will suffer. Hopefully our actions here in Ohio will shed light on the fact that all governors who are out to break unions really have only one agenda: to balance their budgets on the backs of middle class workers.” Signed into law March 31, SB 5 limits collective bargaining for public employee unions. That means police officers, firefighters, teachers, and other state employees cannot negotiate for their wages, though they can still bargain for some benefits such as health care and pensions. As written, SB 5 was slated to take effect July 1. However, the statewide campaign to repeal the bill means that it has been suspended until after the Nov. 8 election. As of June 30, 2010, approximately 102,000 Ohio local government and 196,000 school district employees were covered under collective bargaining contracts. Of the 112,800 persons employed by institutions of higher education in the state, approximately 19,500 are represented by unions. SIU Submits Comments on STCW Convention to DOT Continued from Page 2 Train the Trainer will also need to be rewritten to correspond with the changes. Therefore, we request guidance of the course submission components because the new language introduced leaves much room for interpretation and request clarification on the following points: (Editor’s note: The comments go on to list seven areas including performance objectives, instructor information and more.) Further, we would like to point out a number of items which should be included in Section 10.402, as follows: the new NMC mandated course codes; the course scope, objective, prerequisites, textbooks and homework assignments; how grades are determined; test questions, if used; how records are kept; and, instructor’s manual. Specific tabs should be established for those listed items; they should be removed from the teaching syllabus; the course outline; and, instructor resumes. ■ Onboard Assessments: We are concerned about verifying onboard assessments conducted outside of an approved program, especially when we do not know the assessor. What measures will be in place to verify that student assessments conducted on board were done, done correctly, and documented properly in satisfying prerequisites for mariners who did not come through our approved programs? Our fear is that we might need to reassess students who come to us with onboard assessments that we cannot verify. We recommend that the National Maritime Center qualify assessors for onboard assessment, perhaps with an endorsement on their license or MMC, or by a letter qualifying them as Designated Examiners used in onboard towing assessments. Further, instructors under a course approval who are qualified as assessors should be able to conduct skills assessments onboard a vessel or school ship. We also notice that onboard assessments for STCW Elementary First Aid are not equal for officers and ratings. We believe that this is an oversight on the part of the Coast Guard and should be addressed. Additionally, we would like to November 2011 66941_SIU_Log.indd 9 request that instructors who teach Coast Guard-approved courses should be able to self-certify on those courses that they teach when those courses are required for license renewal. For instance, a First Aid/ CPR instructor could self-certify on First Aid/CPR; a Water Survival Instructor could self-certify on Water Survival, etc. ■ Basic Safety Training – Documentation: We are concerned that the Coast Guard will be unable to track sea service dates that have a bearing on whether a mariner will meet certain qualifications criteria. We feel that implementation of the new regulations will put a huge burden on the National Maritime Center that will require rigorous evaluator training and strict oversight. ■ Requirements to Qualify for an STCW Endorsement as Able Seafarer-Deck – A Gap between Rating Forming Part of a Navigational Watch (RFPNW) and Able SeafarerDeck: We believe that there will be a glut of mariners sailing internationally as RFPNW if they are not restricted to lookout duties until they become able seamen-special per the Code of Federal Regulations. While the RFPNW earns sea time and satisfies the requirements of A/ II-5 of the Code, the path to able seamanspecial remains balanced if the restriction remains in place. Under the 1995 amended Convention, the SIU-affiliated SHLSS created an eleven-month program from entry to AB-Special to meet the RFPNW/Able Seaman-Special training and assessment requirements. Most of the competencies of A/II-5 are accomplished in this program. This existing program can be modified to allow competencies for Able Seafarer-Deck to be added if the National Maritime Center will continue to grant sea service credit. Therefore, we recommend that the NMC grant sea service credit and actual sea service time to mariners who are enrolled in an approved program and who have completed all other requirements of Able SeafarerDeck and are otherwise qualified for the endorsement. ■ Certification of Tankerman: We would like to bring to your attention inconsistencies in the tanker cargo operations provisions, 13.603 and 13.605 and the tankerman PIC requirements in 13.201 and 13.203. The supplemental notice includes no sea service requirement for basic or advanced oil cargo operations as indicated in the STCW. Further, topics 13.603 and 13.605 should be modified to contain specific sea service and training requirements to obtain the advanced tanker STCW endorsements. These should acknowledge and include service aboard barges with appropriate equipment so that service aboard such vessels allows for obtaining the onboard training and assessments to meet Regulation V/1 of the Convention. Finally, it is our belief that a combination of sea service, shipboard experience, and classroom training should be used as a qualification standard for tankermen on modern tank ships and barges. ■ Engineer Officer Endorsements -- License and STCW Endorsement Pathway: We believe that the proposed changes in the engineering training requirements in the supplemental notice represent a significant improvement over the notice of proposed rulemaking. However, we believe additional changes are needed to ensure an engineering career path that meets the twin goals of safety and practicality. We recommend the following additional changes to further modify the proposed requirements: ‡ Remove route restrictions from engineering licenses. An engineer seeking to sail on an international or ocean voyage will require an STCW endorsement. We believe that the need to obtain an STCW endorsement creates a route restriction. ‡ Eliminate the Chief Engineer Limited-Near Coastal license and replace it with a Chief Engineer Limited license limited to vessels less than 1600 GRT, unlimited horsepower. Consistent with the corresponding service requirements for deck licenses, we recommend that the service time required for a Chief Engineer Limited license also be reduced from five years to four years. There are many unlicensed engineers and limited scope licensed engineers who perform duties and have responsibility as engineer aboard vessels sailing internationally. We recommend grandfather provisions upon proof of sea service. We feel that these mariners should be granted a limited-scope license and an STCW endorsement that allows them to continue to serve in the capacity in which they have sailed. This limitation could be restricted to a specific type of vessel, tonnage, and/or equipment the Coast Guard finds appropriate, but it is crucial that these qualified mariners are able to continue sailing. ‡ Allow direct crossover from lower level to upper level licenses where appropriate, including a new crossover from Chief Engineer Limited to First Assistant Engineer Unlimited. ‡ Provide a direct crossover from Third Assistant Engineer to DDEUnlimited horsepower and Assistant Engineer Limited to vessels under 1600 GRT, and from Second Assistant Engineer to Chief Engineer Limited to vessels under 1600 GRT. Tellez then noted that both the SIU and the Paul Hall Center “applaud the Coast Guard for undertaking this challenging and complicated issue and compliment the agency for their work at the International Maritime Organization in amending the STCW Convention. Since the United States is a signatory to the Convention and a prime mover for its acceptance worldwide, we are cognizant that the agency is under a great deal of pressure to fully finalize the implementation of the STCW by its effective date next year. However, we must caution the agency to take its time in this endeavor and get it right so that mariners will not be negatively impacted. Therefore, before publishing a final rule, we ask that stakeholders be given additional time to comment on the proposal.” Seafarers LOG 9 10/24/2011 12:59:04 PM �WELCOME ASHORE IN NORFOLK – Two longtime Seafarers recently picked up their first pension checks in Norfolk, Va. In photo above, SIU VP Government Services Kermett Mangram (right) congratulates new pensioner Donald Hood, who sailed for 42 years, most recently as an AB. Pictured in the photo at left is John Cooper, who retired after 44 years, including recent trips as a GUDE. BOOK PRESENTATION IN JACKSONVILLE – During the September membership meeting in Jacksonville, Fla., SIU VP Gulf Coast Dean Corgey (left) presents a B-book to AB Larry Byrd. At Sea And Ashore With the SIU ABOARD HORIZON TRADER – Bosun Antonio Mercado (left) is shown during a recent voyage aboard the Horizon Trader. After 40plus years with the union, the bosun is planning to retire. SIU Asst. VP Archie Ware, who emailed this photo to the LOG, thanked Mercado for a job well done and wishes him well in retirement. ABOARD APL PRESIDENT ADAMS – SIU Assistant VP Nick Celona (left) and Patrolman Mark R. von Siegel (right) on Sept. 19 met with Seafarers aboard the APL President Adams in Staten Island, N.Y. The Seafarers in this photo are (from left, starting second from left) Chief Cook Erni Lizada, ACU Saeed Alahmadi and Recertified Steward William Churney. READY TO SAIL – Unlicensed Apprentice Do Luong is all business as he completes paperwork just prior to joining his first vessel – a Crowley tugboat in Jacksonville, Fla. CRESCENT BOATMEN IN SAVANNAH – Patrolman Brian Guiry in early September met with SIU boatmen in Savannah, Ga. The Seafarers are employed by Crescent Towing, which recently relocated its offices on Hutchinson Island. Pictured from left to right in photo at left are Justin Taylor, Doug Lewis and Ben Murphy. The photo at right includes Murphy (right) and Randy Sikes. 10 Seafarers LOG 66941_SIU_Log.indd 10 November 2011 10/24/2011 12:59:10 PM �Recollections from the Murmansk Run Editor’s note: Last month’s Seafarers LOG contained the first installment of an occasional series written by retired mariner Ed Woods, who first shipped out at age 16, during World War II. LOG readers were introduced to Woods’ writing a little more than a year ago; he shared a separate story that was published off and on from September 2010 to July 2011. “Recollections from the Murmansk Run” is a combination of Woods relaying the accounts of an old shipmate and filling in the blanks “with what I think could have taken place, based on my own wartime experiences at sea. For this reason, I call this narrative a non-fiction novel.” The names of the main character and his vessels are fictional. The World War II convoys to the Russian ports of Murmansk and Archangel were dangerous and often deadly. Dozens of American-flag ships were sunk on the Murmansk Run, including many SIUcrewed vessels. Last month’s installment ended with the ship Pine Hill under attack in the North Atlantic, four days into its voyage as part of a convoy in late December 1943. It bothered me that while under attack we couldn’t shoot back, without permission from the convoy commodore. I learned that fighting an unseen enemy while part of a convoy was routine. The only time you could get a look at a UBoat was if it surfaced, its crew believing it had the advantage and could use its deck guns. A U-Boat would only come up if you were sailing alone without escorts. Ed Saunders, the engine room cadet, told me that a cadet from the King’s Point maritime academy was killed and went down with his ship after sinking a German raider off the west coast of Africa. The raider had fatally damaged the cadet’s ship and came close by to finish it off believing that the fight was over. The cadet, although badly wounded, was able to fire the 3” 50, hit the raider dead on and caused an explosion that sank it. Only a few members of the crew from the cadet’s ship lived to report the boy’s act of heroism. The noise and vibrations of the depth charges continued throughout the night. A destroyer passed in front of our bow and shortly after, a Canadian Corvette followed in its wake. The two war ships were dropping depth charges and the noise and vibrations were startling. There was no sleep that night. In the morning, when things had quieted down, all dayworkers were told to get some sleep and be on standby. Later, as we neared Iceland, we saw planes in the sky and hoped the planes would keep away the U-Boats. The rumor was that the day before, we had passed through a field of German U-Boats – an infamous Wolf Pack. The subject of a “magic box” was also discussed. What was it that the commodore used to keep the ships in an orderly grid? It was known that our Navy escorts also had the so-called magic boxes that could see in the dark and in the distance. None of us, including the Navy gunners, knew how the boxes worked. It wasn’t until many months later that we heard about radar. I eventually went through the entire war on ships without radar or sonar. My deck officers relied on their own navigational skills, using charts, sextants and good old dead reckoning. The second mate, Mr. Hale, who was the assigned navigator aboard ship, was a real gentleman and very friendly. When he was off duty, he would come aft to the poop deck and tell us about his past experiences and, more importantly, tell us the latest news. The ship was always full of rumors, but whatever the second mate November 2011 66941_SIU_Log.indd 11 This photo was taken Sept. 3, 2011 in Murmansk, Russia. It shows U.S. Sailors assigned to the guided-missile frigate USS Carr placing flowers at the graves of American Merchant Mariners who died supporting the Arctic convoys of World War II. The Carr is on a three-month deployment supporting maritime security operations in the U.S. 6th Fleet area of responsibility. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Jeff Troutman) told me, I believed. He was that type of person. As we passed Iceland and neared Ireland, I noticed that about half of the ships in our convoy had disappeared. Mr. Hale told us that the freighters in our convoy were on their way to Murmansk, Russia. Our ship would continue south towards England. Our oil and planes were needed there. Russia needed other war material: tanks and ammunition, but not oil. England needed fuel for the fighter planes to fight the German bombers and for the ships and small craft that would be used in the eventual invasion of mainland Europe. Some of the older men tried to learn the names of the two ships that had been torpedoed and if any survivors had been picked up. I guess all of us thought that it could have been our ship: torpedoed and now down in the depths of the cold North Atlantic Ocean. I quietly gave thanks to God for sparing me and the Pine Hill. On our ninth day at sea, we entered the North Channel between Ireland and Scotland. We were pleased to see British destroyers waiting to escort us through the Irish Sea. We anchored off Belfast, Northern Ireland, for the night and then the next day crossed over to Liverpool, England. Liverpool had been ruthlessly bombed by the German Luftwaffe, many of its beautiful old buildings destroyed. As a safety precaution, many young children had been sent to the rural countryside to live outside the metropolitan area where there were fewer targets for the German air force. Other kids had been sent to the United States and Canada. The city of Liverpool was alive with American military personnel on leave from the many camps that surrounded the city. There was talk in the pubs, mostly rumors, of a coming invasion of northern Europe. The United States and its allies were already in Italy pushing the Germans north with heavy causalities on both sides. Larry and I received permission to stay ashore overnight and, after making a tour of Liverpool and strolling down notorious Lime Street, we took a train to London. The damage and devastation I had witnessed in Liverpool was minor compared to what the German Luftwaffe had inflicted on London. I was pleasantly surprised, though, to see the Londoners going about their daily routines in spite of the formidable damage to their homes. They referred to their stance as “keeping a stiff upper lip.” Many of the pre-war attractions (museums and churches) were closed or, if opened, offered limited entry. We were, however, permitted to climb the stairs leading to the top of St. Paul’s Cathedral and thereby have an impressive view of the city. Unfortunately, we could also see heavy smoke rising in the nearby distance. A guide told us the smoke was coming from the docks along the Thames. The area had been bombed numerous times and many of the old docks and warehouses set afire, some as recently as the night before. We then had to hurry along to the railroad station to catch the evening express train back to Liverpool. We knew it wouldn’t be in our best interest to be late for duty following our first overnight shore leave. Late that evening, as our train was arriving at Liverpool Station, the city was once again under a bombing attack. We were directed to an air-raid shelter beneath the railroad platforms where we stayed until daylight, when the all-clear alarm was sounded. The buses and trams were not operating and we had to walk to the area on the Mersey River where the Pine Hill was at dock. On the way, we were stopped numerous times by local rescue groups and asked to help move debris off collapsed buildings. It was expected there were people still alive buried beneath the rubble. We did what we could and then hurried along. Upon our arrival at the docks, we were shocked to learn that the Pine Hill had suffered a direct hit from a bomb and was on fire. There were a number of fireboats and tugs alongside, pumping river water into the holds and tanks. A man who appeared to be in charge was yelling and telling the boats to stop pouring water into the ship. “You’ll sink her right here where she sits. Better to let the fire burn itself out.” The official proved to be correct. The Pine Hill’s tanks had been emptied and only fumes remained to burn. The fire sent black smoke into the sky all along the river and into the city center. My immediate supervisor, the first assistant engineer, spotted Larry and me standing by and came over to tell us that arrangements were being made for the entire Pine Hill crew to stay at a local seamen’s club. He gave us the address and told us to report there for further instructions, as there was nothing more to be done here at the pier. We had lost all of our personal gear in the fire and would need clothing and other personal items. We stopped at a local food shop on the way to the club, as we had missed breakfast. We ordered coffee and small cakes that were sitting on the open counter. The coffee proved to be all chicory and the cake was as hard as nails. Larry made an unfavorable remark about the coffee and cakes to the waitress, who quickly reminded us that it was wartime. “I can see the two of you are a couple of young Yanks and I appreciate you coming over here to help us fight the Huns but please remember, we have but little to offer.” I apologized for the two of us and we continued on our way. When we arrived at the seamen’s club and showed our identification, we were told we couldn’t stay there as we were under 18. We would need to go the Angel Street Club for young seamen. The clerk said he would inform our ship’s officers of our whereabouts. I couldn’t believe my ears. Here we were, miles from home in a war zone, delivering war supplies and being told we were too young to stay at a Continued on Page 20 Seafarers LOG 11 10/24/2011 12:59:10 PM �Barbara Shailor Special Representative International Labor Affairs U.S. Department of State Alison McGarry ITF Women’s Coordinator Paul Hall Center Ho Michael Sacco SIU President ‘Landmark’ Event Focuses The SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education hosted dozens of maritime union women leaders from across the globe Sept. 25-30. The attendees travelled to Piney Point, Md., to participate in the International Transport Workers’ Federation Women’s Conference on Leadership, Strategy and Organizing. The ITF described the meeting as “a landmark conference” featuring 37 David Heindel SIU Sec.-Treasurer and Chair, ITF Seafarers’ Section participants from 25 countries Bernard, executive director of Law School (who helped orga International Affairs Director President Jacqueline Smith; an national Labor Affairs, U.S. S and Secretary-Treasurer David the ITF) also addressed the gro SIU participants included P Hazel Galbisco and Tracey M Section. Karen Horton-Genne tertainment and Allied Trades According to the ITF, the c the opportunity to share exper ther strengthen their unions an Smith stated, “The maritim ing members and losing jobs. our unions and our leaders to c The gathering concluded w to develop practical union acti maritime workers,” the ITF no Alison McGarry, ITF Wom veloped strategic plans – all o union power and securing mor Attendees from 25 countries meet at the union-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. Conference attendees and others are pictured near the meeting room. 12 Seafarers LOG 66941_SIU_Log.indd 12 November 2011 10/24/2011 12:59:14 PM �Dr. Elaine Bernard Executive Director Labor and Worklife Program Harvard Law School Jacqueline Smith President Norwegian Seafarers Union Cathy Feingold AFL-CIO International Affairs Director osts ITF Women’s Conference es on Leadership, Strategy, Organizing ntries. Among the featured speakers were Dr. Elaine or of the Labor and Worklife Program at Harvard organize and co-sponsored the event); AFL-CIO ctor Cathy Feingold; Norwegian Seafarers Union th; and Barbara Shailor, special representative, Inter.S. State Department. SIU President Michael Sacco David Heindel (who chairs the Seafarers’ Section of he group as the conference got started. ded Port Agents Elizabeth Brown, Becky Sleeper, ey Mayhew, who also serves on the ITF’s Fisheries ennette represented the SIU-affiliated Seafarers Enades Union. the conference “provided maritime women leaders xperiences and tactics and strategize on how to furns and build women leaders.” ritime industry is moving and changing. We’re losobs. We need to move and change and better equip s to cope with the times. We need dynamic unions.” ed with attendees “using strategic planning tools n action plans to tackle the challenges confronting TF noted. Women’s Coordinator, commented, “The women deall of which are ultimately contributing to building g more wins for all workers, men and women.” Elizabeth Brown SIU Port Agent Karen Horton-Gennette, SEATU Asst. VP (left), and Becky Sleeper, SIU Port Agent Hazel Galbiso SIU Port Agent November 2011 66941_SIU_Log_X.indd 13 Tracey Mayhew SIU Port Agent Seafarers LOG 13 10/26/2011 12:16:07 PM �14 Seafarers LOG 66941_SIU_Log_X.indd 14 November 2011 10/26/2011 12:16:11 PM �Federal Benefits ‘Open Season’ Ends Dec. 12 This year, the federal benefits “open season” runs from Nov. 14 through Dec. 12. During open season, CIVMARS may review their respective health benefit plan options and select a health plan that meets their specific needs and the needs of their families. The Seafarers International Union strongly encourages all CIVMARS to review health care plan options very carefully. For instance, selecting a plan that provides health care coverage for accidents or illness which may occur outside the United States is very important for all CIVMARS who sail aboard vessels forward-deployed. Currently, the union is negotiating with the U.S. Military Sealift Command (MSC) to ensure that CIVMARS who become injured or ill abroad will receive prompt treatment in medical facilities which offer care similar to the level of care offered by physicians and hospitals located in the United States. Health care treatment for CIVMARS who become ill or injured while in the service of a vessel abroad is a very complicated issue, according to a spokesperson for the SIU’s Government Services Division. Along with MSC, the Department of Labor-Workman’s Compensation Division and other governmental agency regulations play a part in determining how CIVMARS will receive treatment and how payments for health care services abroad may be made. The SIU will be sending out additional information to CIVMARS as negotiations progress and once negotiations are completed. While not every hospital abroad takes private health insurance, enrolling in a government-sponsored health care plan with overseas coverage may help expedite care in the event a CIVMAR needs emergency medical treatment. The U.S. Office of Personnel Management website -- http:// www.opm.gov/insure/index.aspx -- in part is designed to help CIVMARS understand health plan coverage options. Each health plan also has its own website that may be reviewed. Other websites which are potentially useful to CIVMARS and their family members in comparing plans and analyzing coverage include Consumer Checkbook (www.checkbook.org) and Plan Smart Choice (www.plansmartchoice.com). CIVMARS who have additional questions are encouraged to call their union representative or email civmarsupport@seafarers.org. Personal Glen Hutton, who was an active SIU member from 1976 to 1985, would love to hear from former shipmates and school buddies. He is on Facebook and resides at 8615 Woodbrook Lane, Chevy Chase, MD 20815. December 2011 & January 2012 Membership Meetings Piney Point......................Monday: December 5, January 2 Algonac..............................Friday: December 9, January 6 Baltimore.......................Thursday: December 8, January 5 Guam.........................Thursday: December 22, January 19 Honolulu........................Friday: December 16, January 13 Dispatchers’ Report for Deep Sea September 16, 2011 - October 15, 2011 Port Total Registered All Groups A B C C Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS 12 0 5 10 5 13 41 27 5 11 20 40 16 24 4 2 2 40 2 22 301 10 3 6 12 6 5 18 27 2 2 5 24 23 13 3 3 5 17 0 28 212 Total Shipped All Groups A B Deck Department 4 13 8 0 0 0 2 2 1 0 11 4 0 1 2 3 6 3 3 47 17 3 25 15 1 7 6 2 6 1 0 18 0 1 41 19 5 11 13 1 24 10 1 4 1 0 2 0 0 6 3 3 23 7 0 0 3 5 19 15 34 266 128 2 0 1 0 0 2 1 1 2 1 0 0 2 1 0 0 0 0 0 3 16 4 0 3 8 0 1 14 15 1 2 2 26 5 12 0 0 1 8 0 13 115 18 2 9 25 7 13 85 54 3 20 24 79 31 48 8 1 14 58 4 48 551 14 5 11 22 7 9 30 50 2 12 10 32 37 21 8 5 9 29 1 56 370 3 0 1 1 1 4 10 7 1 1 1 5 7 0 1 0 1 9 0 5 58 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS 3 1 5 7 5 6 12 12 3 4 6 12 6 11 4 2 3 9 1 4 116 6 0 3 8 0 0 11 23 1 2 2 12 17 11 5 6 6 10 2 12 137 Engine Department 1 4 4 0 1 0 0 4 1 0 6 6 0 2 0 0 4 2 3 13 5 1 15 16 0 5 4 0 7 1 0 4 2 1 10 11 1 3 10 0 11 9 0 4 1 0 4 2 0 2 3 0 11 6 1 0 2 1 9 5 9 119 90 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 2 1 0 2 3 0 0 3 6 1 4 0 5 2 5 0 1 1 7 0 10 51 3 1 5 12 5 16 27 35 2 11 9 20 19 15 4 1 6 21 2 13 227 3 0 9 7 0 2 24 46 3 3 2 18 33 16 5 5 9 17 4 21 227 2 0 0 0 0 1 1 1 0 0 0 4 2 0 0 0 0 0 1 9 21 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS 1 0 3 4 1 12 21 12 0 6 3 20 11 15 4 0 1 18 1 28 161 4 0 2 2 3 0 5 7 1 2 1 2 14 5 0 2 2 7 0 5 64 Steward Department 0 2 4 0 0 0 0 3 1 0 7 1 0 0 0 1 7 0 0 16 5 0 13 6 0 0 2 0 2 0 0 3 1 0 14 1 0 9 7 1 14 2 0 1 1 0 1 1 0 3 0 0 14 2 0 0 1 0 15 3 2 124 38 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 3 1 0 0 2 0 1 4 7 0 0 0 1 4 4 0 0 0 3 0 5 32 4 0 5 11 4 19 31 35 1 11 10 39 15 30 3 1 2 30 3 44 298 4 0 2 7 5 0 11 7 0 6 2 6 17 9 0 0 2 11 2 7 98 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 2 2 1 0 0 0 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 8 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS 1 0 1 0 0 2 1 3 0 0 2 4 0 3 0 0 1 4 1 10 33 15 2 3 5 2 7 12 16 2 6 6 30 22 18 3 12 1 12 2 17 193 Entry Department 16 2 15 0 0 2 4 1 6 6 0 2 0 0 3 4 3 2 4 3 9 13 2 9 1 1 1 2 0 2 5 0 3 2 4 17 18 0 17 4 5 15 4 0 1 8 0 15 0 0 0 3 2 12 1 0 1 5 3 7 100 26 139 7 0 2 0 0 4 0 2 1 0 0 7 9 8 1 9 1 2 0 6 59 1 1 1 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 7 1 2 0 1 0 2 0 1 18 4 0 0 0 0 6 5 6 0 1 3 11 1 5 0 0 1 11 1 9 64 12 3 7 18 3 13 30 41 2 10 3 55 38 29 2 5 2 21 2 49 345 26 1 2 10 1 4 12 22 4 5 7 17 41 20 4 1 0 8 1 30 216 GRAND TOTAL 611 606 145 80 216 1,140 1,040 303 Houston..........................Monday: December 12, January 9 Jacksonville...................Thursday: December 8, January 5 Joliet..........................Thursday: December 15, January 12 Mobile....................Wednesday: December 14, January 11 New Orleans...................Tuesday: December 13, January 10 New York........................Tuesday: December 6, January 3 Norfolk..........................Thursday: December 8, January 5 Oakland.....................Thursday: December 15, January 12 Philadelphia...............Wednesday: December 7, January 4 Port Everglades.........Thursday: December 15, January 12 San Juan........................Thursday: December 8, January 5 St. Louis.........................Friday: December 16, January 13 Tacoma..........................Friday: December 23, January 20 535 395 Trip Reliefs Registered on Beach All Groups A B C Wilmington....................Monday: December 19, January 16 November 2011 66941_SIU_Log.indd 15 Seafarers LOG 15 10/24/2011 12:59:20 PM �Seafarers International Union Directory Michael Sacco, President Augustin Tellez, Executive Vice President David Heindel, Secretary-Treasurer George Tricker, Vice President Contracts Tom Orzechowski, Vice President Lakes and Inland Waters Dean Corgey, Vice President Gulf Coast Nicholas J. Marrone, Vice President West Coast Joseph T. Soresi, Vice President Atlantic Coast Kermett Mangram, Vice President Government Services HEADQUARTERS 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746 (301) 899-0675 ALGONAC 520 St. Clair River Dr., Algonac, MI 48001 (810) 794-4988 ANCHORAGE 721 Sesame St., #1C, Anchorage, AK 99503 (907) 561-4988 BALTIMORE 2315 Essex St., Baltimore, MD 21224 (410) 327-4900 GUAM P.O. Box 3328, Hagatna, Guam 96932 Cliffline Office Ctr. Bldg., Suite 103B 422 West O’Brien Dr., Hagatna, Guam 96910 (671) 477-1350 HONOLULU 606 Kalihi St., Honolulu, HI 96819 (808) 845-5222 HOUSTON 1221 Pierce St., Houston, TX 77002 (713) 659-5152 JACKSONVILLE 5100 Belfort Rd., Jacksonville, FL 32256 (904) 281-2622 JOLIET 10 East Clinton St., Joliet, IL 60432 (815) 723-8002 MOBILE 1640 Dauphin Island Pkwy, Mobile, AL 36605 (251) 478-0916 NEW ORLEANS 3911 Lapalco Blvd., Harvey, LA 70058 (504) 328-7545 NEW YORK 635 Fourth Ave., Brooklyn, NY 11232 (718) 499-6600 Government Services Division: (718) 499-6600 Inquiring Seafarer Editor’s note: This month’s question was posed to individuals who are taking upgrading courses at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. Question: What are your views on the state of the economy and how has it affected you? Thomas Miller GUDE Our economy is not in good shape right now. I think that we are all going to have to pull together to defeat forces that want to tear down the economy even more. If we don’t pull together then we as a nation are going to fall. It’s imperative that we get organized, work toward positive, achievable goals and not allow ourselves to be thrown off course by forces from the right wing media who don’t have the country’s best interests in their agenda. Rather than listen to them, people should look around, utilize other outlets and find out things for themselves; things that will help the economy recover. Doing this would put the fear of God into the hearts of those who are trying to destroy this country. Personally, I have lost $8,000 to $10,000 that I had invested in the market in mutual funds and stocks. It will take me some time to recover from these losses, but still I‘m not giving up on America and I’ll continue to invest in it. These stocks really do help me out; they pay me. Every time I come off of a ship, the payoff gets put into the market as well as the bank and someday I hope to be rich. When that day comes, I will know that I have earned the right to be rich. Chris Smith Ordinary Seaman Things are pretty bad right now where the economy is concerned. In my view it was inevitable that the economy had to change given everything that was going on. Knowing that a downturn was going to happen, I downsized and it has become more of a manageable situation for me. For the public, I think it has made them focus on achieving realistic goals rather than pursue unrealistic dreams. For me personally, the bad economy has awakened me up to reality. I won’t generalize on what the future holds on a broad spectrum economically, but I do think that things eventually will get better. The best advice I can give is to go back to work if you can, enjoy what you do and you’ll make money. Daniel Fields AB The economy is not in the best shape now like it used to be, but I hope and pray that it will get better. The downturn has not really had a big impact on me because I keep going to work, saving my money and resisting the temptation of going on mad spending sprees. The other thing is that I live by faith, pray and focus on God rather than on the economy. As long as I live life by faith, then I know that I’m in good shape because I know that God has my back. So, at the end of the day, if people live by faith everything will be fine. David Quade QMED I really hope the economy gets better soon because a lot of people are out of work and looking for jobs. I have not met that fate and I consider myself lucky because so far it looks like I made the right choice where my career is concerned. So the bad economy has not really affected me that much because this union has really kept me gainfully employed and shielded me from the bad conditions which many people are facing. I know a lot of people are suffering now, but hopefully things will get better soon. Melissa Gooch STOS The state of the economy is actually the reason I’m here and a member of the SIU. My previous job was in real estate; I did it for five years. The market went south on me so I wanted to find another career path, a change in lifestyle. Things are looking up for me now thanks to my new career with the union, which I started in May 2010. I love it a lot because sailing is a somewhat of a family tradition. One of my grandfathers, sister and brother-in-law all did it and my other grandfather was in the Navy. Pic-From-The-Past NORFOLK 115 Third St., Norfolk, VA 23510 (757) 622-1892 OAKLAND 1121 7th St., Oakland, CA 94607 (510) 444-2360 PHILADELPHIA 2604 S. 4 St., Philadelphia, PA 19148 (215) 336-3818 PINEY POINT P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674 (301) 994-0010 PORT EVERGLADES 1221 S. Andrews Ave., Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33316 (954) 522-7984 SANTURCE 1057 Fernandez Juncos Ave., Stop 16 Santurce, PR 00907 (787) 721-4033 ST. LOUIS/ALTON 4581 Gravois Ave., St. Louis, MO 63116 (314) 752-6500 TACOMA 3411 South Union Ave., Tacoma, WA 98409 (253) 272-7774 WILMINGTON 510 N. Broad Ave., Wilmington, CA 90744 (310) 549-4000 For the SIU-sponsored Little League Baseball team of Puerta de Tierra, P.R., 1977 was a championship season. The squad (pictured with coaches and two young supporters) placed first that year in the Puerto Rico Championship, winning the finale by the score of 15-0, according to accounts from that season. If anyone has a vintage union-related photograph he or she would like to share with other Seafarers LOG readers, please send it to the Seafarers LOG, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. Photographs will be returned, if so requested. High-resolution digital images may be sent to webmaster@seafarers.org 16 Seafarers LOG 66941_SIU_Log.indd 16 November 2011 10/24/2011 12:59:24 PM �Welcome Ashore Each month, the Seafarers LOG pays tribute to the SIU members who have devoted their working lives to sailing aboard U.S.-flag vessels on the deep seas, inland waterways or Great Lakes. Listed below are brief biographical sketches of those members who recently retired from the union. The brothers and sisters of the SIU thank those members for a job well done and wish them happiness and good health in the days ahead. DEEP SEA LEWIS DESCHAINE Brother Lewis DesChaine, 66, joined the SIU in 1980. He initially sailed aboard the Independence. Brother DesChaine was born in Washington, D.C., and worked in the steward department. In 1984, he began sailing with the Military Sealift Command. Prior to his retirement, Brother DesChaine worked on the USNS Charles Drew. He lives in St. Anthony, Minn. He upgraded three times at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. Brother Lugtu resides in Las Vegas. INLAND CLARENCE MURPHY Brother Clarence Murphy, 62, started sailing with the SIU in 1988. He was initially employed aboard the Dynachem. Brother Murphy was a member of the engine department. His final trip was on the Horizon Reliance. Brother Murphy attended classes in 2002 at the Piney Point school. He calls San Francisco home. ANDREW HUNTER Brother Andrew Hunter, 66, signed on with the Seafarers in 1964 while in Mobile, Ala. He originally worked on the Steel Flyer. In 1979 and 1981, Brother Hunter took advantage of educational opportunities at the SIU-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. He most recently sailed aboard the Robert E. Lee. Brother Hunter worked in the engine department. He makes his home in Alabama. GREGORY JOHNSON Brother Gregory Johnson, 56, began sailing with the union in 1977. His first trip was on the Baltimore. Brother Johnson worked in the deck department. He upgraded often at the maritime training center in Piney Point, Md. Brother Johnson’s final voyage was on the Maersk Missouri. He settled in Ronkonkoma, N.Y. VICTOR ROSADO Brother Victor Rosado, 65, began his SIU career in 2001 as the NMU was merging into the SIU. The engine department member’s last trip was aboard the Yorktown Express. In 2001, Brother Rosado enhanced his seafaring abilities at the maritime training center. He is a resident of Houston. Brother Franklin Kosiboski, 70, donned the SIU colors in 1977. His earliest trip was with Michigan Interstate Railway. Brother Kosiboski enhanced his skills in 2008 at the Paul Hall Center. He sailed in both the deep sea and Great Lakes divisions. His most recent trip was aboard the St. Mary’s Challenger. Brother Kosiboski, who sailed in the deck department, lives in Mt. Plymouth, Fla. ROMERO LUGTU Brother Romero Lugtu, 67, became a Seafarer in 1983 while in the port of Honolulu. His first trip was aboard the Constitution; his last was on the Lightning. Brother Lugtu was born in Pampanga, Philippines, and worked in the deck department. November 2011 66941_SIU_Log.indd 17 PETER ALBANO Brother Peter Albano, 65, donned the SIU colors in 1967 while in the port of New York. His earliest trip was with Victory Carriers Inc. Brother Albano enhanced his skills often at the Paul Hall Center. His most recent trip was aboard a Penn Maritime vessel. Brother Albano, who sailed in the engine department, lives in Atlantic Beach, Fla. WILLIAM CLIETT Brother William Cliett, 62, joined the union in 1978 while in Jacksonville, Fla. His first ship was the Manhattan Island; his last, the Padre Island. Brother Cliett was born in Georgia and worked in the deck department. Brother Jerry Stuart, 71, was born in Barbados. He started his SIU career in 2001 as the NMU was merging into the SIU. In 1999, Brother Stuart visited the Seafarers-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md., to upgrade his skills. He sailed in the steward department. Brother Stuart’s last voyage was aboard the Maersk Ohio. He makes his home in Wellington, Fla. Brother Leonard Viles, 58, signed on with the union in 1974. He initially worked on a Vivian Tankship Corporation vessel. On numerous occasions, Brother Viles took advantage of educational opportunities at the SIU-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. The engine department member’s final trip was aboard the Horizon Spirit. Brother Viles resides in Encino, Calif. CECIL YEARWOOD Brother Cecil Yearwood, 71, began sailing with the SIU in On three occasions, he took advantage of educational opportunities at the SIU-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. Brother Cliett settled in Savannah, Ga. tan Island. Brother Lytjen was born in Savannah, Ga. The deck department member most recently worked aboard the Liberty Island. Brother Lytjen continues to reside in Georgia. PETER DEPEDER RICHARD ROSSER Brother Peter Depeder, 62, began sailing with the SIU in 1978. His earliest trip was on a Gulf Canal Lines vessel. Brother Depeder shipped in the deck department. His final vessel was operated by Moran Towing of Philadelphia. Brother Depeder resides in his native state of Illinois. Brother Richard Rosser, 57, joined the SIU in 1974. He mainly worked with Crescent Towing & Salvage of New Orleans. Brother Rosser was a member of the deck department. He makes his home in Belle Chase, La. ALFREDO DIGREGORIO Brother Alfredo Digregorio, 58, signed on with the SIU in 1971. He primarily sailed aboard vessels operated by Crescent Towing & Salvage Company. Brother Digregorio worked in the deck department. He calls New Orleans home. JOHN LYTJEN Brother John Lytjen, 61, became a union member in 1979. He originally sailed on the Manhat- NATIONAL MARITIME UNION THEODORE RYWELSKI Brother Theodore Rywelski, 65, started sailing with the SIU in 2001 during the SIU/NMU merger. He worked in the engine department. Brother Rywelski’s final voyage was aboard the Cape Douglas. He was born in New York and settled in North Charleston, S.C. This Month In SIU History JERRY STUART LEONARD VILES FRANKLIN KOSIBOSKI 2001. He shipped aboard vessels including the Ltc. John U D Page and the APL Agate. Brother Yearwood attended classes frequently at the Paul Hall Center. He was born in Barbados and worked in the deck department. Brother Yearwood is a resident of Brooklyn, N.Y. Editor’s note: The following items are reprinted from previous editions of the Seafarers LOG. 1942 British Prime Minister Winston Churchill offered his thanks and the thanks of the Royal Navy to the crews of two SIU-contracted ships that returned to New York after 11 months on the run to Russia. A commendation relayed by Adm. E.S. Land, director of the War Shipping Administration, from the British Admiralty said in part, “Mr. Winston Churchill, the British Prime Minister, has particularly requested that he be associated with this message of congratulations…. I should like also to offer my congratulations to you and your crew for excellent work you all performed during this encounter, which is a great credit to the United States Merchant Marine.” The ships are unnamed for security reasons. 1951 After many months of building preparations the SIU moved into its new headquarters over the weekend of Nov. 17. The building at 675 Fourth Ave., Brooklyn, was acquired over a year ago and was made necessary by the fact that SIU outgrew the old headquarters building at 51 Beaver Street in downtown New York. The move was made by the headquarters staff, and the office staff, with many rank-and-file members assisting. The new building is perhaps one of the finest union offices to be found anywhere in the country. It is only a little more than seven years since the move from the small and dingy office at 2 Stone Street near South Ferry in downtown New York which used to house the headquarters of the union. 1962 The latest in a series of important advances to assure all Seafarers the best possible food and food service aboard ship is now underway at SIU headquarters with the launching of a new refresher school for SIU chief stewards as part of the Steward Department Recertification Program. Five veteran stewards are enrolled in the first class. The program, developed over the past couple years, is the result of a recommendation by a committee of rank-and-file members of the steward department. It features both classroom and practical work to upgrade the steward and teach him the skills necessary for a chief steward’s rating. 1970 In a program that began on Sept. 14 at the Harry Lundeberg School, Piney Point, Md., more than 500 of the union’s members - active Seafarers and pensioners – participated in a 12-week series of crew and pensioner conferences. The purpose of the conferences was to provide members with an opportunity to learn more about their union and the maritime industry. The conferences gave members a closer look at the history of the SIU, the union contract and constitution, and their pension and welfare benefits. In addition, it made SIU members more aware of the problems and of the future of the maritime industry. The conferences have been part of a union experiment in education at the school [featuring] the blending together of trade union seminars, vocational training, and academic education. Seafarers LOG 17 10/24/2011 12:59:25 PM �Final Departures DEEP SEA JACK ALVES Pensioner Jack Alves, 80, died April 21. Brother Alves became a Seafarer in 1960 in the port of San Francisco. He initially sailed with Liberty Navigation Trading Company. The Connecticut native was a member of the deck department. Prior to his retirement in 1993, Brother Alves worked aboard the Consumer. He settled in Pine Grove, Calif. RAFAEL AQUINO Pensioner Rafael Aquino, 80, passed away April 11. Brother Aquino began sailing with the union in 1970 from the port of San Francisco. He was born in the Philippines and worked in the steward department. During his seafaring career, Brother Aquino sailed on vessels including the Santa Mariana and President Washington. He went on pension in 1996 and lived in San Francisco. LAWRENCE BANKS Pensioner Lawrence Banks, 81, died April 23. Brother Banks was born in Mobile, Ala. He signed on with the SIU in 1953. Brother Banks, a member of the steward department, originally worked with Waterman Steamship Company. He last sailed aboard the Overseas Chicago. Brother Banks became a pensioner in 1989 and continued to reside in Alabama. JAMES BOYLE Pensioner James Boyle, 74, died May 7. Brother Boyle first donned the SIU colors in 1978 while in the port of San Francisco. He initially shipped aboard the Santa Mariana. Brother Boyle, who sailed in the steward department, was born in New York. He last worked on the Cape Mohican. Brother Boyle retired in 2002 and made his home in Reno, Nev. GILBERTO BURGOS Brother Gilberto Burgos, 61, passed away February 9. Brother Burgos joined the SIU in 1997. The engine department member initially shipped on the USNS Denebola. Brother Burgos was born in Ponce, P.R. His final trip was aboard the Horizon Producer. Brother Burgos continued to call Puerto Rico home. JAMES BUSH Pensioner James Bush, 81, died 18 Seafarers LOG 66941_SIU_Log.indd 18 April 21. Brother Bush was born in Indiana. He started sailing with the union in 1964. Brother Bush, who sailed in the deck department of both the inland and deep sea divisions, first was employed aboard the Seawind. His last voyage was with Mariner Towing. Brother Bush went on pension in 1987. He was a resident of Brooksville, Fla. ARNOLD BUSTILLO Pensioner Arnold Bustillo, 79, passed away May 1. Brother Bustillo joined the union in 1970 in the port of New Orleans. He originally worked aboard the Steel Maker. Brother Bustillo’s final trip was on the Stonewall Jackson. The deck department member was born in Honduras. Brother Bustillo retired in 1996 and called River Ridge, La., home. VIRGIL CAMPBELL Pensioner Virgil Campbell, 86, died May 3. Brother Campbell began sailing with the Seafarers in 1969 while in the port of Houston. He was born in Andalusia, Ala. Brother Campbell initially shipped aboard the Steel Scientist. His final ship was the Leader. Brother Campbell, who sailed in the steward department, went on pension in 1991. He continued to live in Alabama. SALVADOR CORDERO Pensioner Salvador Cordero, 72, passed away May 7. Brother Cordero became an SIU member in 1969 while in the port of New York. His earliest trip was aboard the American Pride. Brother Cordero last shipped on the Pride of Texas. He was born in Puerto Rico and sailed in the deck department. Brother Cordero started receiving his pension in 2003 and made his home in Orlando, Fla. ANTIONIO ESCOTO Pensioner Antionio Escoto, 73, passed away April 29. Brother Escoto started sailing with the SIU in 1962. He was a member of the engine department. Brother Escoto first was employed with Waterman Steamship Company. His final trip was aboard the Willamette. Brother Escoto became a pensioner in 2003. He was a resident of Texas. ERNEST HARRIS Pensioner Ernest Harris, 82, died April 27. Brother Harris began his SIU career in 1951 while in the port of New York. He was an Ohio native and worked in the steward department. Brother Harris initially sailed on AH Bull Steamship Com- pany vessels. Prior to his retirement in 1996, he shipped aboard the Rover. Brother Harris called Racine, Ohio, home. WALTER LECLAIR Pensioner Walter Leclair, 75, passed away March 3. Brother Leclair became a union member in 1953. He originally was employed with Interocean American Shipping Company. The deck department member was born in New Hampshire. Brother Leclair last sailed on the Anchorage. In 2000, he retired and settled in Chatham, Mass. OLMAN MORALES Pensioner Olman Morales, 96, died April 19. Brother Morales was born Costa Rica. He first donned the SIU colors in 1951. Brother Morales’ first vessel was the Cubore; his last, the Santa Maria. He worked in the engine department. Brother Morales retired in 1980 and made his home in Valencia, Calif. THOMAS NAVARRE Pensioner Thomas Navarre, 83, passed away December 22. Brother Navarre became a Seafarer in 1951 in the port of New Orleans. He initially worked aboard the Del Sud. Brother Navarre, a member of the steward department, was a Louisiana native. Prior to his retirement in 1991, one of his last ships was the Long Lines. Brother Navarre resided in San Pedro, Calif. WILLIE PATTERSON Pensioner Willie Patterson, 87, passed away April 28. Brother Patterson joined the SIU in 1958 while in the port of New Orleans. His initial trip was on the Del Valle. Brother Patterson, who sailed in the steward department, last shipped aboard the Robert E. Lee. Brother Patterson went on pension in 1990 and settled in Louisiana. Prior to his retirement in 1984, he sailed on the Delta Manpower. Brother Robinson, a member of the deck department, made his home in Louisiana. in 1971. He called Massachusetts home. JEFFERY SAXON Pensioner Jeffery Saxon, 65, passed away April 20. Brother Saxon became an SIU member in 1964 while in Mobile, Ala. He initially shipped aboard the Monticello. Brother Saxon was born in Alabama and worked in the deck department. He last sailed on the Sulphur Enterprise. Brother Saxon retired in 2010 and continued to reside in his native state. JUDEX FAISCA Pensioner Judex Faisca, 86, died April 29. The Puerto Rico-born mariner became a pensioner in 1987. Brother Faisca was a resident of Bronx, N.Y. EDMUND SOIHET Pensioner Edmund Soihet, 80, died January 25. Brother Soihet started his seafaring career in 1966. He originally sailed aboard the Del Mar as a member of the engine department. Brother Soihet was born in Honduras. His final trip was on the Archon. Brother Soihet went on pension in 1997. He was a resident of La Cieba, Honduras. OLA STORNES Pensioner Ola Stornes, 100, passed away March 12. Brother Stornes was born in Norway. He signed on with the SIU in 1962 while in the port of New York. Brother Stornes originally worked in the engine department of a Seatrain Lines vessel. He last sailed aboard the Jacksonville. Brother Stornes went on pension in 1976 and continued to live in Norway. INLAND GEORGE BAGGOTT Pensioner George Baggott, 80, died April 29. Brother Baggott became an SIU member in 1976 while in Houston. He mainly sailed aboard vessels operated by Marine Contracting & Towing Company. Brother Baggott was born in South Carolina. He started receiving his pension in 1992 and resided in Charleston, S.C. Editor’s note: The following brothers, all former members of the National Maritime Union (NMU), have passed away. NATIONAL MARITIME UNION JOHN ROBINSON Pensioner John Robinson, 83, died May 6. Brother Robinson began shipping with the SIU in 1946 from the port of Houston. His earliest trip to sea was aboard the Wild Ranger. CLARENCE BROOKS Pensioner Clarence Brooks, 98, died April 25. Brother Brooks, a native of Honduras, became a pensioner RAFAEL CAMACHO Pensioner Rafael Camacho, 86, passed away April 25. Brother Camacho was born in Manhattan, N.Y. He went on pension in 1987. Brother Camacho settled in Longwood, Fla. EPIFANIO PADILLA Pensioner Epifanio Padilla, 86, passed away April 19. Brother Padilla was a native of Puerto Rico. He started collecting his retirement compensation in 1972. Brother Padilla lived in Manhattan, N.Y. LUIS ORTIZ Pensioner Luis Ortiz, 83, died April 19. Brother Ortiz was born in Ponce, P.R. He went on pension in 1967 and continued to call Puerto Rico home. ANGELO SAN FLIPPO Pensioner Angelo San Flippo, 83, passed away May 19. Brother San Flippo was a native of Camden, N.J. He retired in 1969. Brother San Flippo made his home in Collingswood Borough, N.J. NERO THREET Pensioner Nero Threet, 76, died April 3. Brother Threet was born in Venice, Fla. He became a pensioner in 1999. Brother Threet settled in Lynnwood, Wash. JAMES WALTON Pensioner James Walton, 91, passed away April 13. Brother Walton was a Morganton, N.C., native. He started collecting his retirement compensation in 1980. Brother Walton lived in Lansdowne, Pa. Name Age DOD Colomb, Joseph 79 April 2 Cruz, Julio 92 Feb. 21 Davis, Prince 94 March 10 Dumas, Enrique 87 March 18 Ellison, Michael 87 Feb. 15 Fercovich, Marion 87 March 10 Harris, Taylor 80 March 32 Malkinson, Frederick 63 Martinez, Ernesto 87 Morales, Alberto 102 Ruiz, Oscar 86 March 5 March 11 Jan. 29 March 21 Smith, Clyde 72 April 4 Strong, Andrew 85 March 20 Washington, Wilfred 90 March 16 November 2011 10/24/2011 12:59:30 PM �Digest of Shipboard Union Meetings DEPENDABLE (Transoceanic Cable Ship Company), August 2 – Chairman Sanyboy Whiting, Secretary Manuel Basas, Educational Director Ely Cuaresma, Deck Delegate Jose Bautista, Steward Delegate Francisco Calix. Chairman touched on contract extension and upcoming project. Educational director reminded fellow mariners to keep documents current and recommended taking advantage of upgrading opportunities at Paul Hall Center’s Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew read President Mike Sacco’s column online at www.seafarers.org. Cable operation project is still in progress and is expected to be finished by month’s end. Bosun thanked crew for shipboard safety and “good separation of garbage.” Ship’s fund contains $4,000. Special thanks given to Chief Cook Franz Schnell for the good food he serves. Next port: Portland, Ore. ENDURANCE (Crowley), August 16 – Chairman Michael Presser, Secretary Raymond Lackland, Educational Director Travis Moody, Deck Delegate Artis Williams. Under old business, crew discussed contract issues including lack of financial compensation in certain circumstances. Chairman talked about importance of communicating crew’s requests and suggestions, including ways to boost productivity while decreasing company’s costs. Educational director advised crew of the importance of upgrading and the need for regular re-training to keep up with an ever-changing industry. He said we all need to keep pace with technology. Disputed OT reported in all three departments. Crew further discussed concerns about contract. Chairman expressed gratitude to SIU members for maintaining their professionalism and diligence while aboard what he described as the largest RO/RO in the American-flag fleet. LIBERTY SUN (Liberty Maritime), August 28 – Chairman Mark Downey, Secretary Louins Johnson, Educational Director Thomas Miller, Deck Delegate Michael Merrell. Chairman reported a smooth, injury-free trip. He also asked everyone to become familiar with contract and informed members that copies are available at the ports. He thanked Recertified Steward Johnson for excellent menus and food. Secretary thanked chairman and crew for assistance with trash boxes. He reminded members to check expiration dates on documents and also encouraged them to read the Seafarers LOG to stay informed about issues that affect the maritime industry. Educational director recommended everyone take advantage of training offered at Piney Point. He also encouraged members to support SPAD, the union’s voluntary political action fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Recommendations were made to reduce retirement age, increase vision benefits and reduce sea time required for medical benefit eligibility. Next port: Point Comfort, Texas. CHAMPION (Maersk Line, Limited), September 3 – Chairman James Walker, Secretary Willie Massaline, Educational Director Dennis Baker, Deck Delegate Gerald Ray, Engine Delegate Alexander Cordero, Steward Delegate Gregorio Blanco. Chairman and secretary November 2011 66941_SIU_Log.indd 19 The Seafarers LOG attempts to print as many digests of union shipboard minutes as possible. On occasion, because of space limitations, some will be omitted. Ships’ minutes first are reviewed by the union’s contract department. Those issues requiring attention or resolution are addressed by the union upon receipt of the ships’ minutes. The minutes are then forwarded to the Seafarers LOG for publication. With SIU Members Aboard the OSG Tanker Overseas Long Beach These photos of the OSG tanker Overseas Long Beach and some of its crew were taken Sept. 20 on the West Coast. Pictured from left to right in the group photo are Patrolman Nick Marrone II, Bosun Samuel Porchea, GUDE Alfredo Nieto, Chief Cook Cleto Lindong and Recertified Steward William Burdette. encouraged fellow members to read SIU President Michael Sacco’s column in each edition of the LOG. Secretary urged members to support the union’s leadership, contribute to SPAD and contribute to the Maritime Defense League. He said that with contract negotiations on the horizon, it is more important than ever to “perform our jobs in top fashion.” Educational director reminded mariners to keep documents current and keep track of expiration and renewal dates. Treasurer discussed use of fund that’s maintained for no losttime injuries. No beefs or disputed OT reported. New washing machine has been installed. It requires highefficiency washing machine detergent. Membership thanked galley gang for job well done – the food has been excellent. Crew requested that the LOG publish more information pertaining to medical and pension benefits and the Seafarers Money Purchase Pension Plan. Next port: Elizabeth, N.J. CHARGER (Maersk Line, Limited), September 18 – Chairman Robert Pagan Jr., Secretary Rolando Lopez, Educational Director Andrew Linares, Deck Delegate Julius Dagoldol, Engine Delegate M’Barek Nouhairi, Steward Delegate Khaled Taffi. Chairman announced payoff scheduled for next day, and reported a successful voyage with no accidents. He thanked crew for working safely. He asked mariners to close laundry door quietly for off-duty watchstanders who are sleeping. He emphasized proper use of elevator and reminded everyone going ashore not to forget their TWIC. He thanked steward department for excellent meals. Secretary reported that sanitary inspections went very well. He asked mariners to leave rooms clean, strip off bunks and leave fresh linen. Educational director encouraged members to upgrade in Piney Point. He thanked galley gang for excellent meals. Treasurer reported $720 in ship’s fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Motion was made to increase vacation benefit. Chairman announced that new TV, DVD player and CD player will be purchased and installed at the gym. Next port: Los Angeles. GREEN POINT (Central Gulf Lines), September 4 – Chairman Eduardo Morre, Secretary Darlene Steede, Educational Director Pasquale Dibiase, Deck Delegate Samuel McDaniel, Steward Delegate Lamberto Palamos. Chairman suggested that mariners communicate with union officials about any unresolved problems or issues. He reminded crew about Labor Day holiday and OT. He thanked galley gang for hard work, good food “and being friendly to all.” Secretary had discussion with crew concerning stores (quantities and quality of provisions) and thanked them for their assistance. Educational director recommended upgrading at Piney Point and also recommended participating in Seafarers 401(K) Plan. Treasurer reported $500 in ship’s fund and said extra gym equipment and/or movies will be purchased. Deck delegate emphasized importance of shipboard safety. Crew requested new mattresses. Photos from shipboard barbeque will be sent to the LOG. HORIZON ENTERPRISE (Horizon Lines), September 3 – Chairman George Khan, Secretary William Bryley, Educational Director Joseph Egan, Deck Delegate Chuck Turner, Engine Delegate Mike Bautista, Steward Delegate Jamie Austria. Chairman noted crew will have a little extra time in Honolulu this trip due to Labor Day holiday. He encouraged crew to communicate with SIU VP Contracts George Tricker if they need assistance, and he also reported on the company’s recent refinancing. Secretary reminded everyone to separate plastics from wet garbage, and also to leave rooms clean for new members coming on. Educational director urged everyone to check out the new version of the SIU website and in particular the members-only section, which includes work history and other information. He encouraged Seafarers to donate to SPAD “to help fight for our jobs.” No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew reported delay in receiving LOGs. Crew also read President Sacco’s recent column about a number of SIU-contracted companies being honored for safety. They noted more and more members are being featured in the newspaper for safety awareness. Crew recommended name change for one benefit plan and also reminded each other to minimize noise in passageways as off-duty watchstanders sleep. Chairman formally introduced Unlicensed Apprentice Lucas Osborn and encouraged everyone to show him the ropes and answer any questions he may have. “After all, we were all new to this game at one time.” Next ports: Honolulu, Tacoma, Wash., and Oakland, Calif. MAERSK CAROLINA (Maersk Line, Limited), September 5 – Chairman Wilfred Maurice, Secretary Alexander Banky, Educational Director Jessie Ulibas. Under old business, crew said no communications have been received concerning bonuses for traversing hostile waters. Chairman reported payoff scheduled for following week in Newark, N.J. Vessel just completed another quarter with no lost-time injuries, which extends the streak to longer than seven years. He advised everyone to secure staterooms and workplaces for North Atlantic crossing and said it has been a smooth trip. Secretary said last LOG received was the June edition. He advised members to “stay informed and read it because it has all the up-to-date information and changes on benefits and shipping rules.” He reminded fellow members to contribute to SPAD “because when you do, you help yourself as well as your union brothers and sisters.” He also advised crew who are getting off to leave rooms like they would like to see when they are joining ship. Educational director recommended taking advantage of upgrading opportunities at Piney Point. Besides issue of bonus for sailing in hostile waters, steward delegate reported several problems with port stewards and expressed concern about food budget. Crew thanked steward department for great meals. Crew made a dozen suggestions concerning contracts and benefits plans. MAERSK GEORGIA (Maersk Line, Limited), September 10 – Chairman Konstantinos Prokovas, Secretary Darryl Goggins, Educational Director Trent Sterling. Crew attached letter concerning contract clarification they are seeking. Secretary reminded departing members to make sure their rooms are clean and to leave clean linen. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Votes of thanks given to deck and engine departments for jobs well done. Crew requested increase in pension benefits. Seafarers LOG 19 10/24/2011 12:59:31 PM �War Memories Remain Fresh in Mariner’s Mind Continued from Page 11 regular seamen’s club. Many of the English sailors we met when we arrived at the young seamen’s club were younger than us. Bill, the other wiper, was there complaining that he was almost 18 years old and didn’t like spending time with a bunch of kids. He calmed down once he saw that we were there with him. The English sailors looked about 14 years old and were slightly built compared to Larry, Bill and me. We had to pay a fee of one shilling, about 20 American cents, for the night’s lodging and the morning breakfast. There was a huge hot water urn on a table next to the check-in desk that was in use day and night to brew tea for anyone who wanted it. The English kids spent most of their time next to the urn. The next morning, there was a message for us at the desk: “… report to the British Merchant Navy’s crewing office on High Street, without delay.” The entire crew of Pine Hill was at the hall when we arrived. The ship had been declared unfit for sea service and would need extensive repairs. The authorities were attempting to have it towed across the Irish Sea to Belfast where there were marine repair yards. In the meantime, we would be assigned to ships that needed replacement personnel. Larry and I were able to stay together by volunteering to work on an American Liberty ship that had finished being repaired. It had suffered damage in a gun battle with a German raider. Bill was assigned to an oil tanker heading back to the States. He told us that we were both crazy letting ourselves be put aboard a ship going who knows where. We told him we heard the new ship was bound for Russia. He couldn’t understand that we thought of it as an adventure – something we never expected to do and would, most probably, never again have the opportunity. Our new ship, a Liberty type, the S/S John Henry, was only a few months old. It was docked in Birkenhead on the opposite side of the Mercy River from Liverpool. The crewing office arranged transporta- tion for the two of us and we left immediately to take on our new responsibilities. We had been hoping to spend a few more days in Liverpool to take in the sights of the old city, but it was not to be. The engine room on the John Henry was different from the Pine Hill. On the Pine Hill, we had steam turbine engines; now, we had a reciprocating engine, known as an up-and-down engine. They were much nosier and made the engine room dirtier. Well, not exactly dirty, but they did throw more oil about and made our work a bit harder. We had to keep the floor plates clean and as dry as possible. Our new first assistant engineer let us know the first time we met him that he wanted and expected a clean engine room. “We don’t want anyone slipping and falling because of dirty floor plates, do we?” He proved to be an all right guy once he learned we were new to the sea and had less than a month’s experience on ships. We told him about losing our gear in the fire and he immediately had the ship’s purser open up the slop chest so we could buy clothing and other personal items. We bought dungarees, shirts, shoes, toothbrushes, toothpaste and shaving kits. We didn’t have any money to pay the bill. The purser said not to worry about it; he would charge it to our account. He told us that we would most likely be reimbursed for our losses from the fire on the Pine Hill when we returned to the States. We had said our goodbyes to the Pine Hill crew when we left the crewing office. Billy had been a good friend and we would miss him. Our new first assistant engineer introduced us to a third wiper, a real old-timer about 50 years old, named Tex. He had been on the John Henry since it was launched some months before. He quickly let us know that he was qualified to sail as a fireman/watertender or an oiler, as he had passed the examinations and had the required United States Coast Guard endorsements. He said that over the years he had become tired of standing watches and preferred day work. The first told us that he would give the work orders to Tex each morning and for us to follow his instructions. The gunnery officer, Ensign Kelly, assigned me aft to the big 5 inch 38. The lead Navy gunner told me that I would be the hot-shell catcher. This meant that during gunnery practice I would try to catch and salvage the spent shells and toss them into a nearby bin. However, if we were to engage in enemy action, I was to toss the shells overboard as quickly as possible so they would not get in the way of the gunners. There were five U.S. Navy gunners assigned to the gun. It was the biggest gun aboard ship and would be the most important in any fight. I was not happy with my new assignment and I let it be known. Ensign Kelly told me that every job was important but he would keep me in mind when he needed a man for a 20 mm. Tex asked if we knew that we were on a ship loaded with practically every explosive used by the military: bombs, grenades, assorted ammunition and various-sized weapons both small and big. He said, “If you think a tanker loaded with high-test gasoline will blow sky-high when hit with a torpedo, you gotta see what this ship will do. Yes, sir, I’ve seen my share of good ships loaded with explosives get hit; they evaporate, disintegrate, and disappear.” He seemed to take satisfaction in watching the two us wince. The next day, in a small convoy escorted by British destroyers, we sailed for the British navy base at Scapa Flow in the Orkney Islands off northern Scotland. When we arrived at the anchorage, we learned we would be part of a larger convoy bound for Murmansk, Russia. An American Navy officer came on board and offered heavy warm clothing to anyone who thought they would need it on the voyage. Bill and I asked for winter jackets and heavy underwear. Tex laughed when he heard about our request and said, “You know, unless something very unusual happens, you sure won’t need heavy clothing in the engine room.” We reminded him that we expected to go ashore in Murmansk. In the meantime, the only clothing we had was what we were wearing the day we left the Pine Hill and the few things we bought from the John Henry’s slop chest. For the first two days, we were on alert 24 hours a day. The Navy gunners were standing watches of four on and four off in order to keep as many men on lookout as possible. The sounds of the sirens, horns and whistles from the escorts as they chased sonar readings were endless. Our ship’s captain, J. B. Behlmer, sent word to the chief engineer that he wanted any man from the engine room that could be spared from work to come topside and stand lookout. It was said that more lookout personnel improved the chances of seeing a U-Boat or the wake of a torpedo before it hit. A few seconds’ notice of an oncoming tin fish (torpedo) can frequently give the helmsman the time to veer out of its path. As ordered, Larry and I reported to the chief mate, Mr. Elmer Smith. He posted us to the boat deck, the uppermost deck of the ship – Larry to the port and me to the starboard. It was bitter cold and I surely was pleased that I had requested the extra warm clothing when we were at Scapa Flow. Each hour and 20 minutes, we would be relieved for 10 minutes and allowed to go below to the mess hall to warm up and enjoy a hot cup of coffee. Finally, at the end of a four-hour watch, we were told to go below and get some sleep. Those were the best words I had heard in a long time. However, as we got to our fo’c’sle, all hell broke loose. Loud explosions filled the air and the ship vibrated, as the two of us grabbed our lifejackets and raced topside. The air was filled with black smoke and, yet, in the darkness, I could see ships on fire. Liberty ships are not noted for their speed and it was obvious the engine crew had the John Henry going as fast as she could. Larry and I went to our battle stations where we were told that the convoy was breaking up. We were in the middle of a German wolf pack and the commodore had ordered every ship to separate from the group and to sail alone. “Every ship for itself!” Know Your Rights FINANCIAL REPORTS. The Constitution of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU makes specific provision for safeguarding the membership’s money and union finances. The constitution requires a detailed audit by certified public accountants every year, which is to be submitted to the membership by the secretary-treasurer. A yearly finance committee of rank-and-file members, elected by the membership, each year examines the finances of the union and reports fully their findings and recommendations. Members of this committee may make dissenting reports, specific recommendations and separate findings. TRUST FUNDS. All trust funds of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/ NMU are administered in accordance with the provisions of various trust fund agreements. All these agreements specify that the trustees in charge of these funds shall equally consist of union and management representatives and their alternates. All expenditures and disbursements of trust funds are made only upon approval by a majority of the trustees. All trust fund financial records are available at the headquarters of the various trust funds. SHIPPING RIGHTS. A member’s shipping rights and seniority are protected exclusively by contracts between the union and the employers. Members should get to know their shipping rights. Copies of these contracts are posted and available in all union halls. If members believe there have been violations of their shipping or seniority rights as contained in the contracts between the union and the employers, they should notify the Seafarers Appeals Board by certified mail, return receipt 20 Seafarers LOG 66941_SIU_Log.indd 20 requested. The proper address for this is: Augustin Tellez, Chairman Seafarers Appeals Board 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 Full copies of contracts as referred to are available to members at all times, either by writing directly to the union or to the Seafarers Appeals Board. CONTRACTS. Copies of all SIU contracts are available in all SIU halls. These contracts specify the wages and conditions under which an SIU member works and lives aboard a ship or boat. Members should know their contract rights, as well as their obligations, such as filing for overtime (OT) on the proper sheets and in the proper manner. If, at any time, a member believes that an SIU patrolman or other union official fails to protect their contractual rights properly, he or she should contact the nearest SIU port agent. EDITORIAL POLICY — THE SEAFARERS LOG. The Seafarers LOG traditionally has refrained from publishing any article serving the political purposes of any individual in the union, officer or member. It also has refrained from publishing articles deemed harmful to the union or its collective membership. This established policy has been reaffirmed by membership action at the September 1960 meetings in all constitutional ports. The responsibility for Seafarers LOG policy is vested in an editorial board which consists of the executive board of the union. The executive board may delegate, from among its ranks, one individual to carry out this responsibility. PAYMENT OF MONIES. No monies are to be paid to anyone in any official capacity in the SIU unless an official union receipt is given for same. Under no circumstances should any member pay any money for any reason unless he is given such receipt. In the event anyone attempts to require any such payment be made without supplying a receipt, or if a member is required to make a payment and is given an official receipt, but feels that he or she should not have been required to make such payment, this should immediately be reported to union headquarters. CONSTITUTIONAL RIGHTS AND OBLIGATIONS. Copies of the SIU Constitution are available in all union halls. All members should obtain copies of this constitution so as to familiarize themselves with its contents. Any time a member feels any other member or officer is attempting to deprive him or her of any constitutional right or obligation by any methods, such as dealing with charges, trials, etc., as well as all other details, the member so affected should immediately notify headquarters. EQUAL RIGHTS. All members are guaranteed equal rights in employment and as members of the SIU. These rights are clearly set forth in the SIU Constitution and in the contracts which the union has negotiated with the employers. Consequently, no member may be discriminated against because of race, creed, color, sex, national or geographic origin. If any member feels that he or she is denied the equal rights to which he or she is entitled, the member should notify union headquarters. SEAFARERS POLITICAL ACTIVITY DONATION — SPAD. SPAD is a separate segregated fund. Its proceeds are used to further its objects and purposes including, but not limited to, furthering the political, social and economic interests of maritime workers, the preservation and furthering of the American merchant marine with improved employment opportunities for seamen and boatmen and the advancement of trade union concepts. In connection with such objects, SPAD supports and contributes to political candidates for elective office. All contributions are voluntary. No contribution may be solicited or received because of force, job discrimination, financial reprisal, or threat of such conduct, or as a condition of membership in the union or of employment. If a contribution is made by reason of the above improper conduct, the member should notify the Seafarers International Union or SPAD by certified mail within 30 days of the contribution for investigation and appropriate action and refund, if involuntary. A member should support SPAD to protect and further his or her economic, political and social interests, and American trade union concepts. NOTIFYING THE UNION — If at any time a member feels that any of the above rights have been violated, or that he or she has been denied the constitutional right of access to union records or information, the member should immediately notify SIU President Michael Sacco at headquarters by certified mail, return receipt requested. The address is: Michael Sacco, President Seafarers International Union 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 November 2011 10/24/2011 12:59:31 PM �Paul Hall Center Upgrading Course Schedule The following is the schedule of courses at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md., for the next few months. All programs are geared to improving the job skills of Seafarers and to promoting the American maritime industry. Please note that this schedule may change to reflect the needs of the membership, the maritime industry and—in times of conflict—the nation’s security. Students attending any of these classes should check in the Saturday before their course’s start date. The courses listed here will begin promptly on the morning of the start dates. For classes ending on a Friday, departure reservations should be made for Saturday. Seafarers who have any questions regarding the upgrading courses offered at the Paul Hall Center may call the admissions office at (301) 994-0010. Title of Course Start Date Computer Classes Offered at Paul Hall Center Date of Completion Deck Department ECDIS December 10 December 16 GMDSS November 26 December 9 Lifeboat November 12 November 25 Engine Department Welding November 26 December 16 Steward Department Chief Cook These modules start every other week. The most recent class began October 31. Galley Operations/Advanced Galley Operations These modules start every Monday. Safety Upgrading Courses Advanced Firefighting November 12 November 25 Basic Safety Training November 14 December 5 November 18 December 9 Medical Care Provider November 26 December 2 Important Notice For All Paul Hall Center Students Students who have registered for classes at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, but later discover—for whatever reason—that they cannot attend should inform the admissions department immediately so arrangements can be made to have other students take their places. UPGRADING APPLICATION Name ____________________________________________________________________ Address __________________________________________________________________ Four upgraders recently completed training in various computer classes at the unionaffiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. Pictured from left to right in the photo above are Class Instructor Rich Prucha along with graduates Haeven Bautista, Elmer Marko, Mony Williams and Ronnie Hamilton. In addition to classes for phase one through three unlicensed apprentices, and assorted upgrading courses for merchant mariners, the Southern Maryland-based school offers a five-day, independent computer familiarization class. This class introduces students to the computer, its operations, and the basics of the Windows Operating System. Students may venture into word processing, database, spreadsheet, graphics and typing training programs as time permits. Hundreds of mariners take advantage of these classes annually during their stays at the school for upgrade training. NOTICE: NMC Web Site is Vital Resource for Mariners The National Maritime Center (NMC), the licensing authority for the U.S. Coast Guard, offers a comprehensive web site covering mariner credentialing, medical guidelines and much more. The site features a wide range of applications and forms, deck- and engine-department exam information, lists of Coast Guard-approved courses and more. Seafarers are encouraged to check out the site at:http://www.uscg.mil/nmc/ Mariners may call the NMC at 1-888-IASKNMC (1-888-427-5662). Operational hours are 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. EST, Monday through Friday. (The NMC is closed for all federal holidays.) Various email forms also are available through the NMC web site. With this application, COPIES of the following must be sent: One hundred and twenty-five (125) days seatime for the previous year, one day in the last six months prior to the date your class starts, USMMD (z-card) front and back or relevant pages of merchant mariner credential, front page of your union book indicating your department and seniority, qualifying seatime for the course if it is Coast Guard tested, 1995 STCW Certificate, valid SHBP Clinic Card and TWIC. _________________________________________________________________________ Date of Birth ______________________________________________________________ ____________________________ START DATE _______________ Deep Sea Member ❏ ____________________________ _______________ _______________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________ Telephone (Home)_________________________ (Cell)_________________________ Lakes Member ❏ Inland Waters Member ❏ If the following information is not filled out completely, your application will not be processed. Social Security #_______________________ Book #_____________________________ Seniority_____________________________ Department______________________ COURSE DATE OF COMPLETION _______________ LAST VESSEL: __________________________________Rating: ______________ Home Port_____________________________________________________________ E-mail________________________________________________________________ Date On: ___________________________ Date Off:________________________ Endorsement(s) or License(s) now held______________________________________ SIGNATURE ________________________________ DATE___________________ _________________________________________________________________________ NOTE: Transportation will be paid in accordance with the scheduling letter only if you present original receipts and successfully complete the course. If you have any questions, contact your port agent before departing for Piney Point. Not all classes are reimbursable.Return completed application to: Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education Admissions Office, P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674-0075; or fax to (301) 994-2189. Are you a graduate of the SHLSS/PHC trainee program? ❏ Yes ❏ No If yes, class # ______________________________________________________________ Have you attended any SHLSS/PHC upgrading courses? ❏ Yes ❏ No If yes, course(s) taken_____________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________________ November 2011 66941_SIU_Log.indd 21 The Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education is a private, non-profit, equal opportunity institution and admits students, who are otherwise qualified, of any race, nationality or sex. The school complies with applicable laws with regard to admission, access or treatment of students in its programs or activities. 11/11 Seafarers LOG 21 10/24/2011 12:59:33 PM �Paul Hall Center Classes Unlicensed Apprentice Water Survival Class 751 – The following individuals (above, in alphabetical order) completed this course Sept. 30: Leonilo Arano, Brian Beasley, Jared Cabasug, Eric Garcia, Julius Gimutao, Ronnie Hamilton, Chace Jabotte, Rachel Janssen, Christopher Johnson, Eser Kaptan, Leonard Patterson, Robert Sale, Victor Sanchez, Antonio Tindugan, Justin Vacencia and Dionta Winstead. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Fast Rescue Boat – Four upgraders graduated from this course Sept. 23. Completing their requirements (above, in alphabetical order) were: James Copeland, Alan Jacobson, Omar Madrid and Gary Turner. Class Instructor Stan Beck is at the far left. Marine Electrician – Ten upgraders completed their training in this course Sept. 2. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Miguel Abad, Levy Calzado Jr., Linaizys Castillo, Trevor Cohn, Stravon Jordon, Michael Kelly, Nat Lamb, Ronald Pheneuf, Jesse Tornabene and Steven Wilson. Jay Henderson, their instructor, is at the far left. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Tankship Familiarization – Ten upgraders graduated from this course Sept. 30. Completing their requirements (above, in alphabetical order) were: Jeffer Baguio, Fontaine Barber, Michael Carruba, Daniel Fowers, Anecito Limboy, Osar Lopez, Butch Lumansoc, Harry Massa, Kevin Moore and Kennetth Taylor. Brad Wheeler, their instructor, is fifth from the left. Medical Care Provider – The following individuals (above, in alphabetical order) graduated from this course Sept. 9: Haeven Bautista, Kelly Doyle, Brian Frederick, Joseph Krajnik, Edison Lalin, Forrest McGee, Felix Nunez, Freddie Patterson Jr., DonJuan Quarterman, and Justin Valencia Rodriguez. Class Instructor Mark Cates is at the far left. GMDSS – Eight Seafarers completed the enhancement of their skills in this course Sept. 9. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Carlo Balaiadia, Nicole Geidman, Enchantress Johnson, Karen Laycock, Elmer Marko, Robert Taylor, Richard Trovillo and Alexander Ward. Class Instructor Brad Wheeler is at the far right. Junior Engineer – Two classes of upgraders completed their requirements in this course Sept. 16. Graduating (right, in alphabetical order) were: Jason Albertson, Jose Bonita, Jeffery Bull, Chris Ceyzyk, Daniel ChisumCoffey, William Coffy, Rollin Crump, Michael Durago, Charles Gaitu, Armando Garayua, Thomas Hawks, Detricke Kelly, Barry Knowles, Jared Latta, John McKay, Douglas McLaughlin, Loreto Orosco, Orlando Pajarillo Jr., Carmus Peet, Leland Peterson, Victor Rios-Lopez, Alberto Semedo, Steve Shaffer and Reylan Tendido. Class Instructor RObert Ott is at the far left. 22 Seafarers LOG 66941_SIU_Log.indd 22 November 2011 10/24/2011 12:59:38 PM �Paul Hall Center Classes Basic & Advanced Firefighting – The following individuals (left, in alphabetical order) completed their training in this course Sept. 30: Ritchie Acuman, Richard Cole, Dante DeMcCutac, Enchantress Johnson, Frederick Kotoky-Sackson, Karen Laycock, Clayton Lupton, Roy Madrio, Mark Maduro, Elmer Marko, Terrance Maxwell, Stephen Morris, Aisea Mua, Hashiem Pittman, Mykola Smitnov, Jo-Vanii Sprauve, Clive Steward, Anthony Thomas, Allen Ward and Michael Wittenberg. Class instructors Joe Zienda and Wayne Johnson are at the far left and far right respectively. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Important Notice Students who have registered for classes at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, but later discover-for whatever reason- that they can’t attend, should inform the admissions department immediately so arrangements can be made to have other students take their place Specially Trained Ordinary Seaman – The following upgraders (above, in alphabetical order) completed this course Sept. 9: Kenneth Benton, Ronnie Hamilton, Steve Reiber, Kerian Reyes and Dionta Winstead. Their instructor, Tom Truitt, is at the far right. BST (Hawaii) - The following individuals (above, in no particular order) completed their requirements in this class Sept. 24 at the Seafarers Training Facility in Barbers Point, Hawaii: Erikka Crain, Savio DeSena, Anthony Dickey, Jessica Eskew, Stephen Fosnight, Shemeka Hamilton, Jammal Key, Kyle Knight, Neil Lawinger, Kristin Mich’L, Brad Norris, Chris Prentice II, Jarrett Willis, Gregg Buford, Hillary Kruse, Errol Davis and Christopher Pogue. Designated Duty Engineer (Test Prep) – Ten upgraders completed their requirements in this course Sept. 23. Those graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Clint Haylock, Bill Hryhorchuk, Bryan Hughes, Michael Hurst, Edison Lalim, Danny Mayfield, Freddie Patterson, Jr., Don Quarterman, Ricky Shumock and William Tucker. Jay Henderson, their instructor, is at the far right. BST (Hawaii) - The following individuals (above, in no particular order) completed this course Sept. 17 in Barbers Point, Hawaii: Angel Barto, Mary Brenner, Marguerite Gonder, Jeremy Hebda, Aqui Johnson, Christopher McCabe, Samantha Moser, Donna Jones Reid, Justin Sinclair, Jessica Ware, Alexander Wildar, Steven Hirschi, Anjulia Ebanks-Rivera, Seabastio Gomes, Wilfred Pave, Owen Wallace and Michael Henderson. Pumpman – Five upgraders completed this course Sept. 30. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Haeven Bautista, Francis Brown, Gregory Johns, Eddy Newman and Tijani Rashid. Instructor Jim Shaffer is at the far left. November 2011 66941_SIU_Log.indd 23 BST (Hawaii) - Fourteen individuals graduated from this course Sept. 10 at the Seafarers Training Facility in Hawaii. Completing their requirements (above, in no particular order) were: Kenny Chong, Justin Flynn, Nicolas Gardner, Konstantin Kolyabin, Thomas Preston, Steven Vela, Timothy Nelson, David Martinez, Alexander Mrazek, DeWitt Cooper, Todd Cook, Meghan Moroney, Elizabeth Bailey and Julie Hunter. BST (Hawaii) - The following individuals (above, in no particular order) graduated from this course Aug. 27 at the Seafarers Training Facility in Barbers Point, Hawaii: Erikka Crain, Savio DeSena, Anthony Dickey, Jessica Eskew, Stephen Fosnight, Shemeka Hamilton, Jammal Key, Kyle Knight, Neil Lawinger, Kristin Mich’L, Brad Norris, Chris Prentice II, Jarrett Willis, Gregg Buford, Hillary Kruse, Errol Davis and Christopher Pogue. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Seafarers LOG 23 10/24/2011 12:59:42 PM �Volume 73, Number 11 November 2011 SHBP Scholarship Info Page 8 Seafarers in Tacoma, Wash., (photos above, at right and below right) enjoyed a full house, live entertainment, and great food at a barbeque hosted at the union hall on Sept. 23. Seafarers Enjoy Annual Gathering in Tacoma The Tacoma, Wash., hall was bustling with Seafarers, friends, family, and even pets on Sept. 23 at the annual barbeque and monthly membership meeting. The hall was packed with around 120 members and guests who came out to spend some of their off-time discussing union business and enjoying good food prepared by their union brothers and sisters. In addition, Recertified Steward Lincoln Pinn, who is a semi-professional keyboardist and singer, performed an outdoor concert and played a variety of hit songs for the attendees. “This year marked the fifth annual barbeque,” said Port Agent Joe Vincenzo. “In the past, we’ve held a Fourth of July barbeque on our July membership meeting day. This year we chose Labor Day instead, an appropriate day (in this case, Sept. 23) for Seafarers to gather and reflect not only on their work aboard ships but on the availability of work and the near-seamless process of registering and securing a job at the hiring halls.” The event couldn’t have been a success without the hard work from a variety of Seafarers who voluntarily took time to plan, shop, and prepare, according to Vincenzo. The committee this year consisted of Recertified Stewards Travis Jefferson, Tom Belvin, Michael Meany, and Lewis Johansen, as well as Chief Cooks Ingra Maddox, Keesha Smith-Holloway, and Nasser Ahmed. Manning the grills this year were Ahmed, Meany, QMED Chad Hess, BREC Ben Born, Chief Cook Abdullah Falah, and Recertified Steward Jioia de Leon. Born, in addition to donating 30 pounds of beef brisket, was approached by a man walking down the street who said he was hungry. Born, Vincenzo, and other members made sure he got something to eat. Following the success of the fifth annual barbeque, the Tacoma hall is looking forward to many more. Around the Port of Tacoma AB Cesar Runatay (left) takes the union oath and receives his book from Port Agent Joe Vincenzo. Chief Cook Chris Hopkins, North Star AB Kaid Adam, North Star Seafarers (photos at left and above) pack the Tacoma, Wash., hall for the September membership meeting. 66941_SIU_Log.indd 24 10/24/2011 12:59:48 PM � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Seafarers Log Issues 2010-2019 Description An account of the resource Volumes LXXII-LXXXI of the Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Seafarers Log Digital Copies Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 2010-2019 Document A resource containing textual data. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre text. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource November 2011 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES SIU WELCOMES NEW TONNAGE USNS WILLIAM MCLEAN DELIVERED TO MSC; MAERSK ADDS TANKER, 2 HEAVY-LIFT SHIPS TOTE NAMES TACOMA-BASED TERMINAL IN MEMORY OF LATE LEADER BOB MAGEE UNION WEIGHS IN ON STCW AMENDMENTS MAERSK ADDS TANKER, 2 HEAVY-LIFT SHIPS GENERAL DYNAMICS DELIVERS USNS WILLIAM MCLEAN TO MILITARY SEALIFT COMMAND SIU WEBSITE’S MEMBER PORTAL FEATURES NEW ADDITIONS CONFERENCE TACKLES PIRACY ON WORLD MARITIME DAY NEW YORK/NEW JERSEY MTD PORT MARITIME COUNCIL SPOTLIGHTS MARITIME’S FUTURE WHILE SALUTING ITS PAST MARITIME INDUSTRY URGES SUPPORT FOR CARGO PREFERENCE NEW INITIATIVE AIMS TO HELP VICTIMS OF PIRACY WORLD MARITIME DAY EVENT IN PORT ARTHUR, TEXAS HIGHLIGHTS PROBLEMS OF PIRACY ON THE HIGH SEAS GENERAL FRASER TAKES HELM AT TRANSCOM CONGRESSMAN INTRODUCES BIPARTISAN LEGISLATION TO SAFEGUARD JOBS IN U.S. MARITIME INDUSTRY CROWLEY RECOGNIZED FOR SAFETY HISTORIC CARGO DELIVERED FEDERATION STANDS UP FOR JOBS AMMV CHAPTER MEETS IN FT. LAUDERDALE OHIOANS REGISTER WIN FOR WORKING FAMILIES COALITION OF SUPPORTERS GET REPEAL OF SB 5 ON NOVEMBER BALLOT RECOLLECTIONS FROM THE MURMANSK RUN PAUL HALL CENTER HOSTS ITF WOMEN’S CONFERENCE ‘LANDMARK’ EVENT FOCUSES ON LEADERSHIP, STRATEGY, ORGANIZING FEDERAL BENEFITS ‘OPEN SEASON’ ENDS DEC. 12 WAR MEMORIES REMAIN FRESH IN MARINERS MIND SEAFARERS ENJOY ANNUAL GATHERING IN TACOMA Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Seafarers Log Digital Copies Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 11/01/2011 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Newsprint Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context Vol. 73, No. 11 2011 Periodicals Seafarers Log http://www.seafarerslog.org/archives/files/original/e4e6d56fd1eb5158f5262438462f299f.pdf 9d87e3dcfdaec4ca02fd859bd16d7085 PDF Text Text Volume 73, Number 12 December 2011 New ATB Joins SIU-Crewed Fleet Crowley Maritime Adds Tug Legacy, Barge 750-1 The first in a new class of articulated tug-barge units built for SIU-contracted Crowley Maritime – the Legacy/750-1, pictured immediately below– was christened Nov. 3 in New Orleans. The vessel will sail in the Jones Act trade. In the group photo, Crowley Chairman, President and CEO Tom Crowley (sixth from left) poses with his wife, Christine, and the crew of the new ATB. In the photo at right, Christine Crowley breaks a bottle of champagne over hull of the Legacy. Page 3. USNS Medgar Evers Christened Navy Welcomes CIVMAR-Crewed T-AKE Vessel Members of the SIU Government Services Division will sail aboard the Military Sealift Command’s newest dry cargo/ammunition ship (abbreviated as T-AKE), the USNS Medgar Evers (below), which was christened Nov. 12 in San Diego. The vessel is the thirteenth in the Lewis and Clark-class. In photo at left, Myrlie Evers-Williams, widow of slain civil rights leader Medgar Evers and ship sponsor, breaks the traditional bottle of champagne against the hull at the General Dynamics NASSCO Shipyard in San Diego (Photo by Charlie Neuman, San Diego Union Tribune). Page 3. Season’s SIU Jobs Secure on SBX-1 Page 4 67280_LOG_X.indd 1 Greetings Annual Beck Notice Page 7 Membership Meeting Dates for 2012 Page 8 11/22/2011 6:49:21 PM �President’s Report Well-Earned Win in Ohio Although Election Day 2011 was what’s known as an off-year election, it delivered a tremendously important victory not only for union members but also for America’s working families as a whole. As reported in more detail beginning on this same page, Seafarers joined with fellow Ohio voters on November 8 to stand up for workers’ rights and convincingly overturned a vicious, anti-union law designed to eliminate collective bargaining for public-sector workers. In fact, plenty of people in Ohio and across the country – and not just from within the labor movement – realized that the state law (Senate Bill 5) was part of a larger plan to cripple unions. Those attacks won’t stop, but the Ohio vote proved once again that the middle class won’t roll over and let fanatical politicians make them suffer most of the consequences for a recession not created by workers or their unions. I thought Vice President Joe Biden put it well during a post-Election Day rally in Ohio. He said that Michael Sacco workers, via their rejection of SB5 (also known as Issue 2), “fired the first shot” not only for November 8, 2011 but for next year’s federal and state elections. “It’s not about Barack Obama. It’s not about Joe Biden. It’s about whether or not middle-class people will be put back in the saddle, because they’re the ones that make America move,” the vice president said. He went on to say that the Ohio vote “was not just a fight about collective bargaining. It was about respecting teachers, cops on the beat who risk their lives, firefighters, and the extraordinary courage they show every day. This isn’t about labor; this is about giving the middle class a fighting chance.” Finally, he warned that more anti-labor legislation can be expected, including bills targeting workplace safety regulations, prevailing wage laws, right-to-work (for less) and environmental measures. If that’s not enough to keep our attention, nothing is! While we have plenty of work ahead, a word of congratulations is in order to everyone who contributed to the win in Ohio. I’m proud to say the SIU did our part, as did our affiliated unions the United Industrial Workers and the Seafarers Entertainment and Allied Trades Union. We were joined by dozens of other AFL-CIO affiliates, Ohio’s state labor federation and central labor councils, and by personnel from the AFL-CIO itself – led by AFL-CIO President Rich Trumka, who’s doing an excellent job during an extremely tough time for working families. We all know we can never afford to rest on a victory. But Ohio was well-earned and worth savoring, just for a bit. UN Outreach As Seafarers know, the fight against piracy is a multi-national, multifaceted effort. It’s an undertaking that includes everything from identifying and refining shipboard self-defense measures to tackling the political and economic problems that spurred piracy’s increase in the first place. We don’t necessarily publicize all of our anti-piracy efforts, but I want to assure our members that those efforts never stop. We are constantly working with our contracted operators, other unions, our government and the international community – the latter primarily through the International Transport Workers’ Federation – to end this scourge. It’s a tall order, but it’s also vitally important. Our recent work includes participation in a United Nations anti-piracy forum in New York as this edition went to press, and direct outreach to UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon. Among other urgent recommendations, we continue pushing for flag states to take responsibility for their own ships, and for decisive action against the pirate supply chains and logistic bases. We all recognize that piracy is a long-term problem, but that shouldn’t prevent the implementation of more aggressive counter-measures aside from just sailing with armed security teams. This is literally a matter of life and death, and nothing – nothing in this upcoming year and in the future – is more important than the safety of our crews. Volume 73, Number 12 December 2011 The SIU online: www.seafarers.org The Seafarers LOG (ISSN 1086-4636) is published monthly by the Seafarers International Union; Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU, AFLCIO; 5201 Auth Way; Camp Springs, MD 20746. Telephone (301) 899-0675. Periodicals postage paid at Southern Maryland 20790-9998. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to the Seafarers LOG, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. Communications Director, Jordan Biscardo; Managing Editor/Production, Jim Guthrie; Assistant Editor, Paddy Lehane; Photographers, Mike Hickey and Harry Gieske; Administrative Support, Misty Dobry. Copyright © 2011 Seafarers International Union, AGLIWD. All Rights Reserved. The Seafarers International Union engaged an environmentally friendly printer for the production of this newspaper. 2 Seafarers LOG 67280_LOG.indd 2 Union members and other pro-worker demonstrators take their message to Ohio’s capital city, Columbus. Election Day Victory in Ohio is Win for All Working Families The American labor movement is celebrating an enormous victory over anti-worker legislation in Ohio after voters in that state resoundingly voted to repeal a bill that stripped public employees of their collective bargaining rights. The ballot initiative, known as Issue 2, was defeated on Nov. 8 by a wide margin, with more than 60 percent of voters saying, “No,” to the attacks on Ohio’s middle class. “Last night, Ohio voters delivered a bona fide victory for public sector workers everywhere,” said U.S. Secretary of Labor Hilda Solis on Nov. 9. “After months of advocacy and organizing, the people of Ohio have defeated a law that would have silenced the middle class and curtailed the collective bargaining rights of thousands of teachers, fire- fighters and police officers. Ohio has made it clear: These dedicated public servants still need a seat at the table to demand fairness, dignity and respect — especially in tough economic times. Through their unions, they have a voice in their workplace, in their future and, most importantly, in our future.” Members of organized labor, including SIU officials, rank-and-file members, and officials and members from Seafarers-affiliated unions including the United Industrial Workers and the Seafarers Entertainment and Allied Trades Union, were an integral part in getting the word out about the initiative. Continued on Page 14 Report Shows National, Economic Security Benefits of Jones Act A new report has reinforced that the Jones Act, a major pro-American maritime law, has a significantly positive effect on the national and economic security of the United States. The study, called “The Contribution of the Jones Act to U.S. Security,” was issued by the Lexington Institute, a think tank based outside of Washington, D.C. It compiles history and statistics to emphasize the Jones Act’s importance to the country. The impact of the maritime industry on the United States goes back to before the country itself was even founded, the institute observes. The report points out that nearly all of the nation’s major cities were and are connected to waterways. The fact that many of the nation’s economic bases are connected by water exemplifies how unique and important the sea is to the development and sustainment of the country. Not only is access to the open seas a vital part of our nation’s identity, but our inland waterways are important as well, according to the report. “America’s inland waterways directed the expansion of the nation westward, helped to knit together the different parts of the country and is today a major avenue for national and international commerce,” according to the report. “The inland waterways of the United States encompass over 25,000 miles of navigable waters, including the Intracoastal Waterway, a 3,000-mile waterway along the Atlantic and Gulf Coasts. This liquid highway touches most of America’s major eastern cities including Washington, D.C., Philadelphia, Baltimore, Chicago, New Orleans and Mobile.” Additionally, the institute demonstrates that the industry has played a big role in projecting American influence, trade, and our armed forces around the world. Having strong prepositioning forces, for instance, enables the U.S. to address threats to national security, help other nations and ourselves when it comes to natural disasters, and secure and facilitate trade routes, the study finds. All of these goals and operations are supported by an American-flag civilian fleet including work done by SIU members. And while prepositioning ships don’t sail in the Jones Act trades, they may rely on well- trained, loyal, U.S.-citizen mariners who at other times do sail on Jones Act vessels. In short, according to this and other reports, having a strong civilian-crewed U.S.-flag fleet is vital to ensuring national and economic security. The Jones Act helps maintain such a fleet along with a viable pool of mariners. The alternative would be a dangerous option, especially in a time of crisis, the study shows. “For decades, U.S. Merchant Mariners have provided essential support for the U.S. Navy during times of war and national crisis,” according to a statement released by the Navy and cited in the report. “Repealing the Jones Act would remove that support at a time when we are fighting two wars and facing a continuing threat from international terrorism.” “Although the Jones Act was not written with today’s threats to homeland security in mind, its provisions provide an important base on which to build the systems, processes and procedures needed to secure America,” the report states. “The provisions in the Jones Act regarding vessel ownership and manning simplify efforts to ensure that rogue regimes and international terrorists cannot strike at this country via its ports and waterways. One could readily assert that were there no Jones Act, Congress would have to invent one.” Finally, the report calls upon the Obama Administration to back the U.S.-flag fleet in part by supporting the funding of pro-U.S. maritime legislation and programs. The Jones Act is a longstanding U.S. maritime law that mandates the use of vessels that are American-crewed, -built, and -owned to move cargo between two U.S. ports. It helps maintain nearly 500,000 American jobs and pumps billions of dollars into the U.S. economy. Similar laws and statutes apply the same ground rules to the movement of passengers, towing, dredging, and marine salvage. The Lexington Institute is a non-profit public policy group headquartered in Arlington, Va., that focuses on national security and other issues. It was founded in 1998. December 2011 11/21/2011 11:14:58 AM �  Crowley Maritime Welcomes Newest ATB State-of-the-Art Legacy/750-1 Celebrated in New Orleans SIU-contracted Crowley Maritime Corporation, as part of its cutting-edge new vessel building program, christened its largest and fastest articulated tug-barge (ATB), the Legacy/750-1, Nov. 3 in New Orleans. The high-capacity tank barge can carry up to 330,000 barrels of petroleum products. The The tug Legacy is part of Crowley’s newbuild program. 16,000-horsepower tug can generate speeds of 15 knots or more, making the ATB an industry leader, according to the company. When coupled together, the vessels measure 674 feet in length—only 23 feet shorter than One Shell Square, the tallest building in New Orleans. The platform’s design, construction and systems exceed industry standards for the safest possible transportation of petroleum and chemical products, the company reported. “This class of ATB is among the largest, safest and fastest in the trade,” said Crowley’s Chairman, President and CEO Tom Crowley. “We are raising the bar in terms of reliability, cargo flexibility and environmental friendliness through our industry-leading new-build program. And the investments we are making will serve the needs of our customers for many years to come.” The 750-1 was built by Halter Marine Inc., of Pascagoula, Miss., and the Legacy was constructed by Dakota Creek Industries, Inc., in Anacortes, Wash. The 750-1/Legacy is the first of three U.S.- flag 750-Class ATBs to be built for Crowley. Two more – the Legend/750-2 and Liberty/750-3, which also will boast union crews – currently are under construction and are scheduled for delivery between the second half of 2012 and the first half of 2013. All three ATBs will be operated in the Jones Act U.S. coastwise trade by Crowley’s petroleum services group. These three new vessels will bring Crowley’s total ATB fleet to 17, including four SIU VP Gulf Coast Region Dean Corgey (eighth from left) and New Orleans Port Agent Chris Westbrook (left of Corgey) joined members of the Legacy/750-1’s union crew for this photo shortly after the vessel’s christening. 155,000-barrel and 10 185,000-barrel ATBs. The 750-1/Legacy will be operated by Crowley for Marathon Petroleum under a long-term charter arrangement. Vessel sponsors Christine Crowley, wife of Tom Crowley, and Carole Shaffner, wife of Senior Vice President of Transportation and Logistics George Shaffner of Marathon Petro- leum Corporation, performed the time-honored tradition of christening the vessels. More than 200 guests, including SIU Vice President Gulf Coast Dean Corgey and New Orleans Port Agent Chris Westbrook, friends and employees from Crowley, the shipyards and vessel charterer, Marathon Petroleum, attended the event. A celebratory reception followed. Myrlie Evers-Williams, widow of civil rights activist Medgar Evers, delivers remarks during the christening ceremony as MSC Commander Read Adm. Mark Buzby applauds. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Christopher S. Johnson) NASSCO Christens USNS Medgar Evers Finishing touches are added to the new ship a few weeks before its christening. Designated T-AKE 13, the 689-foot ship continues the Lewis and Clark-class tradition of honoring legendary pioneers and explorers. The ship is named in honor of slain civil rights leader and Army veteran Medgar Wiley Evers, who is especially remembered for his efforts to end segregation at the University of Mississippi in the 1950s and for his opposition to Jim Crow laws in the 1960s. Evers was appointed Mississippi’s first NAACP field officer in 1954 and held the position until his assassination in the front yard of his Mississippi home the night of June 12, 1963, by White Citizens’ Council and Ku Klux Klan member Byron De La Beckwith. Evers’ murder, which occurred only hours after President John F. Kennedy delivered a televised, pro-civil rights speech, was mourned nationally. (Photo courtesy General Dynamics NASSCO) December 2011 67280_LOG_X.indd 3 The USNS Medgar Evers (T-AKE-13), the newest ship in the U.S. Navy’s Lewis and Clark-class of dry cargo/ammunition ships operated by the U.S. Military Sealift Command (MSC) and crewed in the unlicensed positions by members of the SIU Government Services Division, was christened Nov. 12 during a ceremony at the union-contracted General Dynamics NASSCO shipyard in San Diego. “I christen you USNS Medgar Evers,” said Myrlie Evers-Williams, the widow of the ship’s namesake, as she broke the traditional bottle of champagne against the vessel’s bow. The Evers was launched Oct. 29 and is scheduled for delivery to MSC in spring 2012. When accepted and fully manned, the platform will be crewed by 124 civil service mariners and 11 Navy sailors, according to MSC. “This technological marvel will carry the strong name of Medgar Evers, as well as the amazing spirit and expertise of the American people, across oceans and seas to every corner of the world,” said Navy Rear Adm. Mark H. Buzby, commander, MSC, to an audience of more than 1,000 people who braved the rainy morning to attend the event. Ceremony attendees included the Evers family, NAACP and other civil rights leaders from around the country, California Gov. Jerry Brown, distinguished guests from the U.S. military and maritime industry and NASSCO employees who built the ship. “USNS Medgar Evers and its MSC civil service mariner crew will be indispensable to the Navy by daily performing the many tasks required to keep our combat fleets on station, ready to face any aggressor, anywhere in the world,” Buzby said. “This type of ship is the glue that holds the Navy together,” said Secretary of the Navy Ray Mabus, the event’s guest speaker. “Ships such as the USNS Medgar Evers allow us to remain forward deployed by providing ammunition, fuel and supplies to our ships around the world.” “This is truly a wonderful day, one that will go down in the history books and one that will remain in our hearts forever,” said Evers-Williams during her remarks to the crowd. The USNS Medgar Evers is the thirteenth of fourteen projected dry cargo/ammunition ships built for use by MSC’s Naval Fleet Auxiliary Force and Maritime Prepositioning Force. Vessels assigned to this program deliver ammunition, food, fuel and other supplies to U.S. and allied ships at sea, enabling the Navy to maintain a worldwide forward presence. Maritime Prepositioning Force ships – many of them crewed by SIU members – are continuously deployed to strategic locations worldwide, carrying U.S. Marine Corps cargo ready for rapid delivery to Marines ashore. Seafarers LOG 3 11/22/2011 5:06:55 PM �Unions, MTD Condemn MarAd Report SIU, Others Cite ‘Gigantic Failure in Matsuda’s Leadership’ In early November, the SIU and three other maritime unions issued a joint statement harshly criticizing the U.S. Maritime Administration (MarAd) for the agency’s recent acceptance of what the unions described as a severely flawed report. The Maritime Trades Department, AFL-CIO, quickly followed up with its own statement backing the unions. The SIU was joined by the American Maritime Officers; International Organization of Masters, Mates and Pilots; and Marine Engineers’ Beneficial Association. Their joint statement began by pointing out that MarAd recently had released “a highly contentious study of American-flag shipping without any input whatsoever from maritime labor. This inexplicable decision guaranteed that the report would not contain the information that Congress and the Administration would need to develop and implement meaningful maritime policy that strengthens, not weakens, the U.S.flag merchant marine, provides jobs for American, not foreign, maritime workers, and bolsters, not diminishes, the economic, military and homeland security of the United States. The administrator who approved the report, David Matsuda, should be held accountable.” The unions pointed out that MarAd more than a year ago had been tasked by Congress with identifying ways to boost American-flag shipping (which is the agency’s federal mandate). “Instead, the agency accepted a report based on incomplete information whose main conclusion – that in the deep-sea commercial sector, it often costs more to use U.S.-flag ships – isn’t news to anyone,” the unions declared. “The fact that MarAd chose to exclude a significant segment of the maritime industry from this process, and accepted a report that includes possible cost-cutting suggestions that are completely contrary to the overall best interests of the United States represents a gigantic failure in Matsuda’s leadership and a missed opportunity on the part of the Maritime Administration.” The joint statement continued, “How could the Maritime Administration sign off on a report that suggests consideration of weakening or eliminating the Jones Act, one of the bedrocks of our national and economic security? How could the agency not refuse the mere notion of turning America into a second register? (It should be noted that the carriers interviewed for the study soundly rejected lowering U.S.citizen crewing requirements as well as the second-register idea.) “We make no apologies whatsoever for the fact that our members make a living wage and receive health care and pension benefits. American mariners are secondto-none worldwide when it comes to being properly trained for their profession. Yet MarAd’s report points to these factors as some of the reasons why it costs more, on average, to ship American. MarAd should be ashamed of itself for entertaining a study that suggests that beating down American mariners to the level of ThirdWorld labor and lowering their standard of living are good for our industry and good for our country. The findings of this report are an insult to the brave men and women who comprise the U.S. Merchant Marine, including those who sail in harm’s way to deliver vital materiel to our armed forces.” Finally, the unions noted that they “stand ready to work with Congress and the Administration to make our industry stronger, larger and more competitive. The Maritime Administration had the opportunity to start this process in an all-inclusive, productive way. It is not only unfortunate but a clear dereliction of duty that they chose not to and instead spent time, energy and resources on a report that serves no Horizon Halts Trans-Pacific FSX Service Seafarers-contracted Horizon Lines in late October announced the end of its Five Star Express (FSX) trans-Pacific container shipping service between the U.S. West Coast, Guam and China. The move involves the Horizon Hawk, Horizon Consumer, Horizon Tiger, Horizon Eagle and Horizon Falcon. In a letter to Horizon crews and shore-side employees, company Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer Brian W. Taylor said, “This is a decision that we do not take lightly and it is one that has been made with a great deal of care and deliberation. Although a new refinancing for our company is in place, softening economic conditions remain, as does the prospect of ongoing challenges in several trades. Like many other International carriers, we have been dealing with persistent rate and volume deterioration in the China trade and the adverse impact this is placing on our financial performance. “Throughout these challenging times in the Pacific, we have continued to run our existing service without interruption, and you have been instrumental in helping make this happen. We are grateful for all of the service and sacrifice you have made to get us here, however, with no end in sight to the rate pressure in this trade, we have made the difficult decision to discontinue our service.” He added, “I want to emphasize that this de- cision to discontinue the FSX service has nothing to do with the exemplary service you have delivered. Each of you helped us launch this service in short order late last year, without a single operational or commercial flaw!” SIU President Michael Sacco, in a letter sent to each ship’s chairman, noted, “This is a disappointing but not surprising move that is being made to stop financial losses that are well into tens of millions of dollars. As Horizon stated, it is no reflection on the work of their crews or other employees, and it’s an agonizing decision, but there simply is no practical alternative. (Dozens of shore-side employees are being displaced as well.) “In the short run, your union will continue working with the company to help ensure a smooth conclusion to this operation and to protect your interests. I thank you in advance for your professionalism during this challenging time, and I know it goes without saying that you will all do your parts to help the final sailings proceed safely and efficiently, like always. “In the bigger picture, it’s important to note that discontinuation of the FSX Guam and China services will not affect Horizon’s domestic Jones Act services in Alaska, Hawaii or Puerto Rico. The company remains a key employer of SIU members, and we will continue working with them to help Horizon navigate through their current financial crisis.” Kudos to Paul Hall Center Apprentices When SIU Asst. VP Nick Celona and Patrolman Nick Marrone II serviced the Horizon Enterprise on Oct. 13 on the West Coast, Recertified Bosun George Khan complimented the work of the vessel’s two apprentices, who had been aboard for recent trips completing the second phase of the program. Pictured from left to right are Marrone, UA Paul Douglas, Khan, UA Lucas Osborn and Celona. 4 Seafarers LOG 67280_LOG.indd 4 useful, constructive purpose.” The MTD called the report “flawed and inadequate…. We find it quite odd that MarAd would release a flawed report suggesting a second register while at the same time the United States is seriously considering the ratification of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea. Those conducting the research failed to contact a single maritime union, relying solely on shipping company representatives for their information about mariner contracts and benefits. The MTD welcomes the rejection of such ridiculous notions by U.S.-flag carriers within the study.” The MTD statement further said that by accepting and publicizing the report, the agency “shows it is out of touch with its own mission statement and with the Obama Administration’s charge to maintain and create good American jobs. The MTD finds it hard to believe that the agency of the federal government mandated to promote U.S.-flag shipping and its mariners can be so disconnected as to not know that its own sponsored report fails to meet its original objectives and then proves it does not even understand its own roles and missions.” The SIU-crewed SBX-1 departs Seattle and heads for Hawaii following three months of scheduled maintenance and upgrades. (Photo courtesy Missile Defense Agency) IAS Lands DOD Contract SIU Jobs Secure Aboard SBX-1 The Defense Department in early November announced that Interocean American Shipping Corp. (IAS) has been awarded a contract to operate and maintain the sea-based X-Band Radar platform known as SBX-1 for the U.S. Military Sealift Command. The contract is for one year but includes options that would bring the total agreement to five years. IAS already had been operating the SBX-1, with an SIU crew, under terms of a prior contract. According to the recent government announcement, the vessel “will be deployed to the Pacific Ocean to provide ballistic missile-tracking information to the Ground-based Midcourse Defense System (GMD). SBX-1 will also provide advanced target and countermeasures discrimination capability for the GMD interceptor missiles.” The U.S. Missile Defense Agency reports that the SBX-1 can sail at up to eight knots. The unique vessel measures 240 feet wide, 390 feet long, and 280 feet high from its keel to the top of the radar dome (radome). The SBX-1 features an advanced X-Band radar mounted aboard an oceangoing, semisubmersible platform. It is twinhulled, self-propelled and very stable in rough seas. December 2011 11/21/2011 11:15:04 AM �  Study: Great Lakes Maritime Industry Accounts for 100,000 American Jobs The maritime industry on the Great Lakes is responsible for creating and sustaining more than 100,000 American jobs, according to a study released in October. In addition to the jobs supported by maritime, shipping on the Great Lakes is also a major generator of economic activity for both the United States and Canada’s international trade, the study showed. The study, “The Economic Impacts of the Great Lakes-St. Lawrence Seaway System,” was commissioned by the Lake Carriers’ Association (LCA) in conjunction with several other maritime groups. Their goal was to demonstrate to the public the vast benefits that shipping provides not only to the region, but also to the entire nations of Canada and the United States. “The value of U.S.-flag Lakes shipping has never before been so well illustrated,” said James H.I. Weakley, president of the LCA. “These facts and figures will help us fight for our fair share of federal dredging dollars, a second Poe-sized lock at Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan, renewal and expansion of the U.S. Coast Guard’s icebreaking fleet, and other needs that will determine if those jobs stay and grow, or whither and go.” In a time of economic hardship, particularly in the Great Lakes region where other industries have been hit hard by layoffs, outsourcing, and subsequent unemployment, the maritime industry is doing its part to keep the flow of goods moving and hundreds of thousands of Americans at work through direct and indirect jobs, the LCA pointed out. According to the study, the maritime industry provides over 44,000 direct jobs to merchant seamen and others aboard vessels that sail the Great Lakes. However, Great Lakes shipping also leads to thousands of indirect jobs as well. At least 44,000 related jobs were created or sustained through the maritime industry. The maritime industry on the Great Lakes provides a major economic impact on the nation, the study confirmed. According to the report, the amount of money generated by firms and companies that rely on maritime was upwards of $33.5 billion in 2010 alone. The maritime industry and the companies that depend on it also generated billions in tax dollars at the federal, state, and local levels, which furthers the contribution of maritime on the Great Lakes to the good of the nation as a whole. Another of the study’s findings showed that the average wage for a maritimerelated job in the Great Lakes region is roughly $47,000. The LCA concluded that the report confirms what shipowners, maritime workers, labor officials, and members of Congress have long been professing: The U.S. maritime industry is an important component of national and economic security. U.S.-flag “lakers,” many of them crewed by SIU members, haul raw materials – iron ore for steel production, coal for power generation, limestone and cement for the construction industry, as well as salt, sand, grain, and other dry- and liquid bulk cargos. In total, there are about 65 large U.S.-flag self-propelled vessels and tug/barge units. In a boom economy, the U.S.-flag Lakes fleet can haul upwards of 115 million tons of cargo over the course of the shipping season. AOTOS Honorees Include SIU Crews The 2011 United Seamen’s Service (USS) Admiral of the Ocean Sea Awards were presented to three great friends and advocates of the maritime industry on Oct. 28 in New York, with more than 700 people in attendance. Pictured above, left to right, are honorees Robert D. Somerville, chair of the American Bureau of Shipping; General Duncan McNabb, recently retired commander of the U.S. Transportation Command; and James L. Henry, chairman and president of the Transportation Institute. Detailed information about those honorees appeared in an article in the August edition of the LOG. Several SIU-crewed vessels also received honors at the Oct. 28 event; the Horizon Producer, USNS Bridge, Thomas Jefferson, Cape Kennedy and USNS Safeguard were recognized for activities ranging from supporting relief operations in Japan to performing rescues at sea to extinguishing a shipboard fire caused by contractors. AB Gary Toomer of the Cape Kennedy is pictured at right. A special AOTOS recognition plaque was given to Captain George Quick, former president of the Association of Maryland Pilots. ITF Applauds Admiral’s Anti-Piracy Pledge Historic International Transport Workers’ Federation Meeting The executive board of the International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF) convened in Washington, D.C., for a mid-October gathering that is believed to have been the first time the board met in the United States. Highlights included an address by AFL-CIO President Richard Trumka and a visit from U.S. Secretary of Labor Hilda Solis, pictured at left with SIU SecretaryTreasurer David Heindel, who also serves as chair of the ITF Seafarers’ Section. Another noteworthy development occurred when the board joined in celebrating the presentation of an AFL-CIO charter to the National Taxi Workers Alliance (photo above), which became the 57th organization to join up with the federation. Among those welcoming the affiliation were ITF General Secretary David Cockroft (seated second from right) and ITF President Paddy Crumlin (seated far right). December 2011 67280_LOG.indd 5 The International Transport Workers’ Federation, to which the SIU is affiliated, in late October said it “welcomed the latest statement of determination to prevent piracy from the Supreme Allied Commander, Europe, U.S. Navy Admiral James Stavridis.” The ITF was responding to an exchange of letters with Admiral Stavridis, in which he reiterated the NATO task force’s determination to “use all its means to limit the freedom of movement to the Pirate Action Groups in the area.” SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel, who chairs the ITF Seafarers’ Section, had written to the admiral on behalf of both the union and the federation. The initial correspondence criticized many flag-of-convenience states for not contributing to the fight against piracy, and called for a more robust response in all areas. As noted by Heindel, this would include disrupting the pirate camps on land and restricting their access to fuel as well as their ability to store fuel, among other steps. “I’m pleased to report that the admiral shares and appreciates our concerns and, in addition, assured us that the NATO counter-piracy task force will use all of its resources to limit the movement of pirates,” Heindel said in his November report to the SIU membership. “He also forwarded our letter to NATO headquarters in Brussels to inform their political body of our concern. “As we stated back when we helped launch the Save Our Seafarers campaign, we don’t expect the pirates to be afraid of a letter. But there is value in securing on-the-record support from individuals like Admiral Stavridis and from organizations like NATO’s Allied Commands.” Stavridis wrote in part, “I want to thank you for your commitment against piracy, an evolving scourge, not only in the Indian Ocean but also, as you mentioned, emerging as a growing threat off the coast of West Africa. As you are well aware, the military actions at sea, conducted by several coalitions, only address the symptoms of a wider problem which remain on land in Somalia, which has suffered from an absence of government for more than two decades. I would like to assure you that we are doing as much as we can, with the assets the NATO members have allocated to the NATO counter-piracy task force.” Complete copies of both letters, along with an ITF press release, are available in the News section of the SIU website, with a posting date of Oct. 26. Seafarers LOG 5 11/21/2011 11:15:07 AM �The newly recertified bosuns were joined by SIU officials for this traditional photo following the November membership meeting in Piney Point, Md. Pictured from left are SIU SecretaryTreasurer David Heindel, VP Atlantic Coast Joseph Soresi, Anecito Limboy, VP Contracts George Tricker, President Michael Sacco, Mickey Earhart, Randell Porter, Rafael Franco, Executive VP Augie Tellez, Jeffery Eckhart, Hanapiah Ismail, Port Agent Pat Vandegrift and Greg Cudal. Seven Bosuns Complete Recertification Seafarers Finish Premier Deck-Department Course at Union-Affiliated Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md. Seven SIU members recently completed the bosun recertification course at the union-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, located in Piney Point, Md. The three-week class is considered the top curriculum available to deck-department Seafarers. Receiving course-completion certificates at the November membership meeting in Piney Point were Gregorio Cudal, Mickey Earhart, Jeffery Eckhart, Rafael Franco, Hanapiah Ismail, Anecito Limboy and Randell Porter. In keeping with SIU tradition, each bosun took a turn at the podium and addressed fellow members, unlicensed apprentices and union officials. Both in their respective speeches at the meeting and in written comments provided to the Seafarers LOG, the bosuns consistently stated that the recertification couraged the apprentices to take advantage of the career opportunities available through the SIU and the Paul Hall Center’s Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School “The SIU has always been there for me. That’s why I will always be there for the SIU.” – Recertified Bosun Rafael E. Franco class will help them do an even better job aboard ship. They credited the school for its supportiveness; applauded the union for its successful efforts to fight for and protect members’ job security; and en- of Seamanship. The course included sessions covering the Manila Amendments to the STCW Convention and various planned improvements to the school. The bo- The bosuns said they enjoyed the opportunity to share knowledge with apprentices (photo above and the bottom photo on Page 7) at the school. 6 Seafarers LOG 67280_LOG_X.indd 6 suns – each of whom had taken at least one class at the school in years past – at various times met with representatives from the union’s contracts, manpower, benefits plans, and communications departments, as well as with personnel from different departments at the school. They participated in meetings at the union’s headquarters building, located in Camp Springs, Md., and at the Maritime Trades Department offices in Washington, D.C. (the latter of which are housed at AFLCIO headquarters). They also brushed up on computer and communications skills, and trained at the school’s small-arms range, among other activities. Cudal signed on with the Seafarers in 1983. He said the class gave him “better knowledge about contracts and about how the union and school operate. I have a better understanding of our benefits and how to deal better with people on board the vessels.” He added, “I highly recommend all union members come and upgrade at the school, because the more knowledge we acquire for the job, the better for us and the companies we will work for.” Earhart, who joined the SIU in 1989, has upgraded a handful of times but said, “This time here has been the best of all. This has been a very good class – I learned a lot of new information and now feel I can answer questions better that I get asked every day.” He described the SIU as “a big part of my family. It has been for 22 years and will be for a long time to come.” Eckhart has been a Seafarer since 1977. He said he gained “a lot of information” about how the union, school and Seafarers Plans function, and he also appreciated revisiting the union’s history. Altogether, the lessons illuminated “how everything is tied to together to form the union. This will help me answer questions…. I got to meet a lot of nice people and instructors and really enjoyed my time here at the school.” Franco, who joined the SIU in 1991, Continued on next page December 2011 11/22/2011 5:06:57 PM �  Summary Annual Report For Seafarers Health And Benefits Plan This is a summary of the annual report for the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan (Employer Identification No. 13-5557534, Plan No. 501) for the period January 1, 2010 to December 31, 2010. The annual report has been filed with the Employee Benefits Security Administration, as required under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA). Basic Financial Statement Class members enhance their computer skills during the recertification course. Graduates Share Experiences with Apprentices, Upgraders Continued from Page 6 said the small-arms training proved quite valuable, and he also said all of the school’s instructors are “very knowledgeable. My experience here has been great…. The SIU has always been there for me. That’s why I will always be there for the SIU.” Ismail came aboard as a Seafarer in 1984. He said the recertification course reinforced his belief that “the union is in good hands, and so is the school. I would like to thank our officials because without them, I don’t know where I would be. Thanks to the instructors at the school, too, for all that they do.” Limboy, a member since 1993, said one of the course’s most interesting components involved detailed information about contract negotiations. He encouraged fellow mariners to upgrade at the school and added his thanks “to SIU President Mike Sacco, our other officers, and the school’s staff and instructors for everything they do.” Porter joined the union in 1991. He, too, said that learning about contracts was helpful, as was gaining knowledge about the medical and pension plans. “The information I received was very helpful to me, and now I can help Beck Notice The Seafarers International Union, AGLIWD/ NMU assists employees by representing them in all aspects of their employment and work aboard vessels which sail deep sea, on the Great Lakes and inland waters throughout the country. For the most part, the union spends a majority of its financial resources on collective bargaining activities and employee representation services. In addition to these expenditures, the union also spends resources on a variety of other efforts such as organizing, publications, political activities, international affairs and community services. All of these services advance the interests of the union and its membership. This annual notice is required by law and is sent to advise employees represented by the Seafarers International Union, AGLIWD/NMU about their rights and obligations concerning payment of union dues. This notice contains information which will allow you to understand the advantages and benefits of being a union member in good standing. It also will provide you with detailed information as to how to become an agency fee payor. An agency fee payor is an employee who is not a member of the union but who meets his or her financial obligation by making agency fee payments. With this information, you will be able to make an informed decision about your status with the Seafarers International Union, AGLIWD/NMU. 1. Benefits of union membership — While nonmembers do receive material benefits from a union presence in their workplace, there are significant benefits to retaining full membership in the union. Among the many benefits and opportunities available to a member of the Seafarers International Union, AGLIWD/NMU is the right to attend union meetings, the right to vote for candidates for union office and the right to run for union office. Members also have the right to participate in the development of contract proposals and participate in contract ratification and strike votes. Members also may play December 2011 67280_LOG_X.indd 7 someone else or at least point them in the right direction,” Porter noted. “My stay here was great, the education I got was very helpful, and the instructors were very knowledgeable. I say thank you to all of them.” The value of plan assets, after subtracting liabilities of the plan, was $61,236,749 as of December 31, 2010 compared to $80,904,452 as of January 1, 2010. During the plan year the plan experienced a decrease in its net assets of $19,667,703. This decrease includes unrealized appreciation or depreciation in the value of plan assets; that is, the difference between the value of the plan’s assets at the end of the year and the value of the assets at the beginning of the year, or the cost of assets acquired during the year. During the plan year, the plan had total income of $35,692,394. This income included employer contributions of $31,938,785, participant contributions of $451,600, realized gains of $60,298 from the sale of assets and earnings from investments of $3,109,616. Plan expenses were $55,360,097. These expenses included $10,531,650 in administrative expenses and $44,828,447 in benefits paid to participants and beneficiaries. Your Rights to Additional Information You have the right to receive a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, on request. The items listed below are included in that report: 1. An accountant’s report; 2. Assets held for investment; and 3. Transactions in excess of 5 percent of the plan assets. To obtain a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, write or call the office of Margaret Bowen, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746, (301) 8990675. You also have the right to receive from the plan administrator, on request and at no charge, a statement of the assets and liabilities of the plan and accompanying notes, or a statement of income and expenses of the plan and accompanying notes, or both. If you request a copy of the full annual report from the plan administrator, these two statements and accompanying notes will be included as part of that report. These portions of the report are furnished without charge. You also have the legally protected right to examine the annual report at the main office of the plan: Plan Office, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746 and at the U.S. Department of Labor in Washington, D.C., or to obtain a copy from the U.S. Department of Labor upon payment of copying costs. Requests to the Department should be addressed to: U.S. Department of Labor, Employee Benefits Security Administration, Public Disclosure Room, 200 Constitution Avenue, NW, Suite N-1513, Washington, D.C. 20210. Notice to Employees Covered by Union Agreements Regulated Under the National Labor Relations Act a role in the development and formulation of union policies. 2. Cost of union membership — In addition to working dues, to belong to the union as a full book member the cost is $500.00 (five hundred dollars) per year or $125.00 (one hundred twenty-five dollars) per quarter. Working dues amount to 5 percent of the gross amount an employee receives for vacation benefits and are paid when the member files a vacation application. 3. Agency fee payors — Employees who choose not to become union members may become agency fee payors. As a condition of employment, in states which permit such arrangements, individuals are obligated to make payments to the union in the form of an agency fee. The fee these employees pay is to support the core representational services that the union provides. These services are those related to the collective bargaining process, contract administration and grievance adjustments. Examples of these activities include but are not limited to, the negotiation of collective bargaining agreements, the enforcement and administration of collective bargaining agreements and meetings with employers and employees. Union services also include representation of employees during disciplinary meetings, grievance and arbitration proceedings, National Labor Relations Board hearings and court litigation. Employees who pay agency fees are not required to pay for expenses not germane to the collective bargaining process. Examples of these expenses would be expenses required as a result of community service, legislative activities and political affairs. 4. Amount of agency fee — As noted above, dues objectors may pay a fee which represents the costs of expenses related to those supporting costs germane to the collective bargaining process. After review of all expenses during the 2010 calendar year, the fee cost associated with this representation amounts to 86.13 percent of the dues amount. This means that the agency fee based upon the dues would be $430.65 (four hundred thirty dollars sixty-five cents) for the applicable year. An appropriate reduction also will be calculated for working dues. This amount applies to the 2012 calendar year. This means that any individual who wishes to elect to pay agency fees and submits a letter between December 1, 2011 and November 30, 2012 will have this calculation applied to their 2012 dues payments which may still be owed to the union. As noted below, however, to continue to receive the agency fee reduction effective January 2013, your objection must be received by December 1, 2012. A report which delineates chargeable and nonchargeable expenses is available to you free of charge. You may receive a copy of this report by writing to: Secretary-Treasurer, Seafarers International Union, AGLIWD/NMU, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. This report is based upon an audited financial report of the union’s expenses during 2010. Please note that as the chargeable and nonchargeable expenses may change each year, the agency fee amount may also fluctuate each year. Individuals who are entitled to pay agency fees and wish to pay fees rather than dues, must elect this option each year by filing an objection in accordance with the procedure noted below. 5. Filing of objections — If you choose to object to paying dues, an objection must be filed annually. To receive the deduction beginning in January of each year, you must file by the beginning of December in the prior year. An employee may file an objection at any time during the year, however, the reduction will apply only prospectively and only until December 31 of that calendar year. Reductions in dues will not be applied retroactively. As noted above, each year the amount of the dues reduction may change based upon an auditor’s report from a previous year. The objection must be sent in writing to: Agency Fee Payor Objection Administration, SecretaryTreasurer’s Office, Seafarers International Union, AGLIWD/NMU, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. 6. Filing a challenge — Upon receiving the notice of calculation of the chargeable expenditures related to core representation activities, an objector shall have 45 days to submit a challenge with the Secretary-Treasurer’s office if he or she believes that the calculation of chargeable activities is incorrect. Every person who wishes to object to the calculation of chargeable expenses has a legal right to file such an objection. 7. Appeal procedure — Upon receiving the challenge(s) at the end of the 45-day period, the union will consolidate all appeals and submit them to an independent arbitrator. The presentation to the arbitrator will be either in writing or at a hearing. The method of the arbitration will be determined by the arbitrator. If a hearing is held, any objector who does not wish to attend may submit his/her views in writing by the date of the hearing. If a hearing is not held, the arbitrator will set the dates by which all written submissions will be received. The costs of the arbitration shall be borne by the union. Individuals submitting challenges will be responsible for all the costs associated with presenting their appeal. The union will have the burden of justifying its calculations. The SIU works very hard to ensure that all of its members receive the best representation possible. On behalf of all the SIU officers and employees, I would like to thank you for your continuing support. Sincerely, David Heindel, Secretary-Treasurer Seafarers LOG 7 11/22/2011 5:06:58 PM �SHBP Scholarships Available to Seafarers, Dependents Eligible Seafarers and dependents who are interested in furthering their education may now apply for scholarships being offered by the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan’s (SHBP) 2012 Scholarship Program. Eight awards totaling $132,000 will be available under the 2012 program to qualified applicants to help offset the financial challenges associated with college and vocational studies. Three scholarships will be designated for Seafarers and five will be targeted for spouses and dependents. One of the endowments reserved for Seafarers totals $20,000 and is intended to help defray the costs associated with attending a four-year, college-level course of study. The remaining two are in the amount of $6,000 each and are designed as two-year awards for study at a post-secondary vocational school or community college. Each of the five scholarships for spouses and dependents is for $20,000. Now is an ideal time to begin the application process. The first step is to send for the 2012 SHBP Scholarship Program booklet. The package contains eligibility information, procedures for applying for the scholarships and an application form. To obtain a copy of this handout, simply complete the form which appears below, and return it to the address provided. As an alternative to requesting a scholarship Please send me the 2012 SHBP Scholarship Program Booklet which contains eligibility information, procedures for applying and a copy of the application form. Street Address............................................................................................................ Union members and their dependents who are looking to further their education should research all the scholarship opportunities that are available to them, including those through Union Plus. The Union Plus Scholarship Program awards $150,000 each year to union members, spouses or dependent children who are attending a two-year college, four-year college, graduate school or a recognized technical or trade school. Applications for the 2012 scholarship program are due Jan. 31, 2012. City, State, Zip Code................................................................................................. ) ........................................................................................ This application is for: o Self Mail this completed form to: o Dependent Scholarship Program Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 Monthly Membership Meetings Keep Seafarers Informed About Issues Affecting Their Livelihoods certificate are also required and should accompany the package. A scholarship selection committee, consisting of a panel of professional educators, will examine the high school grades of all applicants as well as evaluate scores from their Scholastic Aptitude Tests (SAT) and American College Tests (ACT). Accordingly, arrangements should be made by applicants who have not done so to take these tests no later than February 2011. Doing so will virtually assure that the results reach the evaluation committee in time for review. Seafarers and dependents who previously applied for the scholarship program and were not selected are encouraged to apply again this year, provided they still meet the eligibility requirements Union Plus Helps Union Families Achieve Goals Name........................................................................................................................... Telephone Number ( package through the mail, they also are available at SIU halls. Once the scholarship program booklet has been received, applicants should check the eligibility criteria to determine if they are qualified to participate. They should also begin collecting and assembling the remainder of the paperwork needed to submit with the full application, which must be received by April 15, 2012. Items that must be incorporated in the final application package include transcripts and certificates of graduation. Since some institutions respond slowly in handling transcript needs, requests should be made as early as possible. Letters of recommendation – solicited from individuals who know the applicant’s character, personality and career goals – should be included as part of the application package. A high-quality photograph and a certified copy of the applicant’s birth Attending monthly membership meetings is a key avenue through which Seafarers can remain current on news that directly affects them. Conducted in SIU halls around the country, these forums keep members aware of important union and maritime issues, many of which could affect their livelihood Since starting the program in 1992, Union Plus has awarded in excess of $3.2 million in educational funding to more than 2,100 union members, spouses and dependent children. Recipients are selected based on academic ability, social awareness, financial need and appreciation of labor. There is no requirement to have participated in any Union Plus program in order to apply for these scholarships. Those interested in applying should visit www. unionplus.org/education. and those of their family members. Below is the schedule of meetings which will be held in 2012. Each issue of the Seafarers LOG also lists the dates for the next two monthly meetings that have been scheduled for each port. Meeting dates also are posted on the SIU website. 2012 Union Membership Meeting Dates Port Traditional Date January February March April May June July August Piney Point September October November December Monday after first Sunday *3 6 5 2 7 4 2 6 *4 *9 5 3 New York Tuesday after first Sunday 3 7 6 3 8 5 3 7 4 9 6 4 Philadelphia Wednesday after first Sunday 4 8 7 4 9 6 *5 8 5 10 7 5 Baltimore Thursday after first Sunday 5 9 8 5 10 7 5 9 6 11 8 6 Norfolk Thursday after first Sunday 5 9 8 5 10 7 5 9 6 11 8 6 Jacksonville Thursday after first Sunday 5 9 8 5 10 7 5 9 6 11 8 6 San Juan Thursday after first Sunday 5 9 8 5 10 7 5 9 6 11 8 6 Algonac Friday after first Sunday 6 10 9 6 11 8 6 10 7 12 9 7 Houston Monday after second Sunday 9 13 12 9 14 11 9 13 10 15 *13 10 New Orleans Tuesday after second Sunday 10 14 13 10 15 12 10 14 11 16 13 11 Mobile Wednesday after second Sunday 11 15 14 11 16 13 11 15 12 17 14 12 Oakland Thursday after second Sunday 12 16 15 12 17 14 12 16 13 18 15 13 Port Everglades Thursday after second Sunday 12 16 15 12 17 14 12 16 13 18 15 13 Joliet Thursday after second Sunday 12 16 15 12 17 14 12 16 13 18 15 13 St. Louis Friday after second Sunday 13 17 16 13 18 15 13 17 14 19 16 14 Honolulu Friday after second Sunday 13 17 16 13 18 15 13 17 14 19 16 14 Wilmington Monday after third Sunday 23 *21 19 16 21 18 16 20 17 22 19 17 Guam Thursday after third Sunday 19 23 22 19 24 21 19 23 20 25 22 20 Tacoma Friday after third Sunday 20 24 23 20 25 22 20 24 21 26 23 21 Certain meeting dates were changed from normal dates because of holidays: * Piney Point changes created by New Year’s Day, Labor Day and Columbus Day holidays. *Philadelphia change created by Independence Day holiday. *Houston change created by Veterans Day holiday. *Wilmington change created by Presidents’ Day holiday. 8 Seafarers LOG 67280_LOG.indd 8 December 2011 11/21/2011 11:15:10 AM �  AB Lionel Rivas GUDE Brett Arcouette, UA Scott Doxey Liberty Promise Transports Speedy Cargo On Oct. 29, the Seafarers-crewed Liberty Promise loaded 11 high-speed boats and their support equipment in Savona, Italy, noted vessel master Capt. Costas Balomenos. Destined for Abu Dhabi, the boats are used in international powerboat racing; they can accelerate from a standstill to 100 mph in only four seconds, and have top speeds greater than 155 mph. “Last spring, the sister ship Liberty Pride delivered the boats to Europe for the summer race circuit,” Balomenos wrote in a recent communication to the LOG. “Now, they are being returned to the Persian Gulf for the winter race months. “Bosun Marco Galliano, AB Ferdinand Hinds, AB Arnaldo Avila, AB Gwendolyn Garcia, AB Todd Homer and AB Lionel Rivas, along with the assistance of SIU Apprentices Cody Fox and Scott Doxey,  carefully assisted the stevedores in securing this delicate cargo,” he added. “They will be monitoring these boats throughout the voyage to assure that they are delivered safely.” Also garnering attention aboard the Liberty Maritime ship was a Halloween cake Chief Steward Henry Manning put together for the crew and officers. The captain described it as “wonderful.” Rounding out the SIU crew are GUDE Terrence Meadows, GUDE Brett Arcouette, Chief Cook Tonya A specially designed transport truck heads for the stern Johnson and SA Sheltia Wright. ramp. “The MEBA deck and engine officers of the Liberty Promise thank the SIU crew for their continuous hard work and dedication,” Balomenos concluded. The Dubai team boat is loaded onto the vessel. GUDE Terrence Meadows Chief Steward Henry Manning, Chief Cook Tonya Johnson Boats for the Abu Dhabi (foreground) and Dubai teams are among those transported by the SIU-crewed Liberty Promise. Crowley Crews Review STCW Convention, Much More SIU members employed by Crowley met in late September in Jacksonville, Fla., for a two-day seminar covering a wide range of maritime topics. Participants including Seafarers and company personnel are pictured above. Among the subjects they reviewed were the Manila amendments to the STCW Convention; oil spill response considerations; company policies and procedures; hydraulics; engineer vessel air controls; hazmat transfer procedures; and hurricane preparedness. December 2011 67280_LOG.indd 9 Seafarers LOG 9 11/21/2011 11:15:15 AM �NY PORT COUNCIL EVENT – SIU President Michael Sacco (center) chats with Seafarers Dave Christinzio (left) and Anthony Lombardo during the annual Maritime Port Council of Greater New York/New Jersey awards dinner, which took place Oct. 15. This year’s honorees included U.S. Rep. Charlie Rangel (D-N.Y.), retired MTD Executive Sec.-Treasurer Frank Pecquex and President Sacco. CATCHING UP IN PUERTO RICO – SIU Executive VP Augie Tellez (center) is pictured with union employees Wilfredo Miranda (left) and Luis Roman at the union hall in Santurce, P.R., where the latter two gentlemen are based. WELCOME ASHORE IN HOUSTON – SIU Assistant VP Jim McGee (right) presents a pension check to Chief Mate William Travis, who recently retired after a long and productive career that included working at Crowley and Seabulk Towing. At Sea and Ashore with the SIU REMEBRANCE ABOARD HORIZON HAWK – Bosun David Garoutte reports: “On Oct. 20 at 1300 hours, latitude 24-0 N / longitude 128-45 E, the crew of the Horizon Hawk (group photo) gathered on the stern for an informal remembrance and salute to First Assistant Engineer Jack M. Bell, who passed away on the morning of Oct. 13 while en route from Oakland, Ca., to Guam. Many shared personal remembrances of Jack, attesting to his fine character, humor, and work ethic. He was a well-respected shipmate and good friend to many. He will be missed. The gathering ended with three blasts of the ship’s horn. Jack Bell was not an SIU member, but he was a brother seaman, sharing the same hardships and perils that we all do while serving away from home. It was in the truest spirit of the Brotherhood of the Sea that we all came together and honored our friend.” A floral arrangement presented by the crew is shown in the other photo. LONGTIME SEAFARER CALLS IT A CAREER – Ft. Lauderdale Port Agent Kris Hopkins (right) congratulates AB Wayne Johnson upon the Seafarer’s recent retirement. Johnson was among the first graduates of the SIU-affiliated Lundeberg School in the late 1960s, and he first sailed on the Del Sol. 10 Seafarers LOG 67280_LOG.indd 10 SAFETY CELEBRATED ON HORIZON EAGLE – These crew members were aboard the Horizon Eagle when they celebrated going three years without a lost-time injury. Among those included in the photo are Chief Cook Mario Firme Jr., Chief Steward Rang Nguyen, AB Rodolfo Antonio, DEU Virgilio Banzon, QMED Florencio Marfa Jr., First Engineer Tim Arai (obscured ), Captain Niles Baker, Second Mate Derek Bender, Chief Mate Eric Veloni, Engine Cadet John Martin, Third Mate Jerry Mastricola, AB Robert Borchester, Recertified Bosun Lance Zollner, Electrician Michael Murphy, AB Alexander Bermudez, Steward Utility Fathi Mohsin, Chief Engineer Ben Meucci (partially obscured ) and Third Engineer Prentiss Smith. December 2011 11/21/2011 11:15:20 AM �  NOAA Vessel Arrives at New Home Port in Davisville, R.I. The Seafarers-crewed National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) ship Okeanos Explorer arrived at its new home in Davisville, R.I., on Sept. 28 after months at sea gathering information on the little-explored ocean floor. On Oct. 17, the vessel was the focal point of a homecoming celebration with U.S. Senators Jack Reed (D-R.I.) and Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.) on hand to honor the Okeanos Explorer’s contributions to the field of oceanography. The ship has recently done explorations of the seafloor off the coasts of Indonesia, the Galapagos Islands, and in the Gulf of Mexico. The 224-foot vessel, crewed in the unlicensed slots by members of the SIU Government Services Division, holds some of the most advanced underwater mapping equipment that allows the scientists aboard to investigate poorly mapped parts of the ocean floor more thoroughly. One of the vessel’s key features is its remote-operated vehicle (ROV) capabilities. These ROVs have the ability to move along the floor of the ocean and record images that scientists wouldn’t normally have the chance to see. The vessel also sends real-time satellite transmission of its findings to Exploration Command Centers ashore. One such center is at the University of Rhode Island where students, scientists, and others can access the information. The Explorer has been a particularly busy and effective vessel in the NOAA fleet, according to the agency. Since 2009, it has mapped more than 450,000 square kilometers of previously unmapped or poorly mapped areas of seafloor. That is roughly equivalent to the size of California. The vessel has also trained a large number of undergraduate and graduate students aboard, in addition to many more through telecommunications. Under Secretary of Commerce for Oceans and Atmosphere Jane Lubchenco, Ph.D., stands with mariners from the Seafarers-crewed NOAA Ship Okeanos Explorer at the vessel’s new home in Davisville, R.I. (Photo by David Hall/NOAA) Stephen Cornwell sailed in the union’s inland division. Former SIU Boatman Publishes Fiction Novel Former SIU member Stephen M. Cornwell has turned his love of writing into a new career as a published author. His novel, called “The Last Iriadonae,” is an adventure/fantasy story that hit the market on Oct. 19. Cornwell joined the SIU in 1979 at the Paul Hall Center’s Lundeberg School of Seamanship and then went on to work on harbor tugs for G&H Towing, Crowley, Moran and McAllister for a total of 30 years. Cornwell sailed in a variety of capacities in the deck and engine departments; he began writing in 2009. Here is a plot synopsis of the book, provided by the author: “After his father mysteriously disappears, and then his mother is wounded by soldiers of his own kingdom, a young blacksmith and his two sisters turn in desperation to the witch of Deepmist Forest for help. The witch says they must take their mother to the elves in distant Sira Et Kanan, if they hope to save her life. She claims he and his two sisters were born with powers which were concealed from them. Wanted by their own army, and hunted by an evil sect, they must learn to use their powers while fighting their way across lands infested with trolls and ogres. Aided by a few good friends, they race headlong to save their mother and discover what became of their father.” “The Last Iriadonae” is actually part of a three-volume tale that Cornwell is in the process of creating. “The Islix Sword Trilogy” happened, according to Cornwell, sort of by accident. “The book was originally going to be one long book, but publishers want books in the 90,000 to 120,000 word range,” said Cornwell. “I was already at 150,000 words when I learned this. I knew where the story was going, and decided it would be best to divide it into three and make it a trilogy.” The next installment of the story, “The Sanctum of Solitude,” is already completed, according to Cornwell. The third, “The Second War,” is being written. “The Last Iriadonae” is available on Amazon.com. In addition to hardcover, the book will be available for download through Amazon.com’s Kindle site. Those Fish Never Had a Chance The off-duty angling skills of Seafarers aboard the USNS Lawrence Gianella recently were on display in Diego Garcia. Pictured with their respective catches are Bosun Kyle Bailey (below, left), AB Stag Rye (far right) and Pumpman Jason Powell (immediate right). The vessel is a tanker operated by Ocean Shipholdings for the U.S. Military Sealift Command. December 2011 67280_LOG_X.indd 11 Seafarers LOG 11 11/22/2011 5:37:21 PM �Captain Brent Goodridge Captain C On the Job at Seabu SIU Boatmen Provide Ship Assist Operations, O R Many of the company’s tugs are designed to meet specific requirements for assisting U.S. military vessels. The company’s SIU-crewed tugs are based in Texas and Louisiana. 12 Seafarers LOG 67280_LOG_X.indd 12 ecent stops aboard two Seabulk Towing boats in Port Arthur, Texas, found the SIU crews in good spirits and hard at work. The Gasparilla and the Nike both operate on the Sabine-Naches Waterway between the sea buoy at the Gulf of Mexico and the docks in Beaumont, Port Arthur and Orange as well as in the Sabine Pass. Typically, they perform harbor assist work with tankers, bulkers and car carriers, plus military supply ships. The four-man crews are part of a fleet that also operates from various locales in Louisiana. Aboard the Gasparilla, Mate Justin Briggs recalled that in his first year as a Seafarer (2005), he sailed on a Seabulk tug that was the first vessel to negotiate the Port Arthur waterway after Hurricane Rita. SIU boat- men relayed vital information to authorities; it took two weeks before regular traffic resumed. “It was a real team effort,” Briggs stated, adding he’ll never forget seeing some of the damage. Meanwhile, aboard the nearby Nike, two crew m bers said they are pleased with new aspects of their respective careers. For Deckhand Adrian Novcaski, the work itself relatively new – he’s in his first year sailing. He said “an entirely different world being on the water,” bu enjoys it, and eventually wants to become a pilot. Quartermaster Anthony Meredith comparative an old salt, having sailed on tugs for 10 years, but h a first-year union member – and a happy one. “There’s somebody protecting me for a change,” Mate Justin Briggs December 2011 11/22/2011 6:46:57 PM �  Pictured from left to right aboard the Gasparilla are Apprentice Mate Aaron Howell, Chief Engineer Chris Butts, Seabulk Area Operations Manager (and SIU book holder) Michael Thomas, Mate Justin Briggs and Captain Brent Goodridge. Captain Chris Kibodeaux eabulk Towing rations, Offshore Towing Services authorities; it took resumed. ggs stated, adding that the damage. y Nike, two crew memew aspects of their aski, the work itself is ear sailing. He said it’s g on the water,” but he o become a pilot. redith comparatively is for 10 years, but he is a happy one. g me for a change,” Meredith stated when asked about some of the differences between belonging to a union compared to not having representation. He added that because of the protection of a collective bargaining agreement, his opportunities for advancement “are not based on who you know but on what you know.” Other members pictured on these two pages have belonged to the SIU for many years. They include Chief Engineer Chris Butts (a member for 27 years); Engineer Gus Leday (23 years); Captain Brent Goodridge and Captain Chris Kibodeaux (13 years each); and Apprentice Mate Aaron Howell (four-plus years). Apprentice Mate Aaron Howell gs Chief Engineer Chris Butts December 2011 67280_LOG_X.indd 13 Engineer Gus Leday Deckhand Adrian Novcaski Quartermaster Anthony Meredith Seafarers LOG 13 11/22/2011 6:47:02 PM �USNS Big Horn Completes Seven-Month Deployment The Seafarers-crewed U.S. Military Sealift Command fleet replenishment oiler USNS Big Horn returned to Norfolk, Va., on Oct. 28, following a seven-month deployment to the U.S. Naval Forces Europe-Africa/U.S. 6th Fleet area of responsibility. While deployed, the vessel – crewed in the unlicensed slots by members of the SIU Government Services Division – provided underway replenishment services primarily to U.S. and NATO forces supporting Operation Unified Protector. According to MSC, the Big Horn travelled 39,355 nautical miles during the deployment and conducted 112 underway replenishments, delivering 10 million gallons of fuel – including more than 570, 000 gallons of jet fuel – and 1,042 pallets of stores and equipment to U.S. and NATO ships across the northern Atlantic Ocean and Mediterranean Sea. Initially deployed in April to the Irish Sea as part of the 2nd Fleet exercise Joint Warrior 11-1, the Big Horn played numerous roles in the multinational exercise – including serving as a training platform for amphibious assaults, joining in ship-to-ship targeting drills, and participating in maritime search and seizure drills – in addition to the ship’s principal mission of fleet replenishment. During Joint Warrior 11-1, the Big Horn conducted underway replenishments with ships from a variety of countries, including Bulgaria, Italy, Spain, Greece, Canada, France, Israel, Turkey, Morocco and Malta, the agency reported. Those operations were conducted at all hours of the day and night, often on short notice. At the conclusion of Joint Warrior, the Big Horn reported to U.S. Africa Command to provide vital fuel and stores to the U.S. and NATO ships supporting U.N. Security Council Resolution 1973, which authorized all necessary measures to protect Libyan civilians under threat of attack and to enforce a no-fly zone. Serving the NATO-led Operation Unified Protector, the Big Horn provided underway replenishment to ships as well as transportation support for military and civilian officials moving throughout the operating area. Spirit of (Alliance) St. Louis Capt. F.B. Goodwin of the Alliance St. Louis submitted these photos of Seafarers to recognize them for “exemplary” performance in the steward department and for earning Maersk Line, Limited safety awards. Goodwin said he recently had the galley gang “stand down from cooking dinner, and the rest of the ship’s personnel assisted with and cooked dinner (cookout) and helped with cleanup. We still needed their expertise in preparation, and pointers on cooking.” Standing left to right in the photo above are Bosun Jeffery Moritz, SA Jose Garcia, Steward/ Baker Rudolph Daniels, Chief Cook Vincent Chavez and Electrician Herbert Hyde. In the other photo, seated from left are safety award recipients AB Rickie Zelaya, Daniels, Garcia, Chavez and AB German Nunez along with OMU Malachi Tannis. Among those in the back row are Moritz, OMU Andy Iliscupidez, AB George Saltz, AB Eduardo Ramos and AB Arnedo Paredes Jr. The Seafarers-crewed USNS Big Horn (left) sails alongside the USS Bataan last summer in the Mediterranean Sea during an underway replenishment. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Julio Rivera) Labor Movement Records Key Triumph During Ohio Election Continued from Page 2 They helped warn of thethe dangers loss of They helped warn of the dangers loss ofthe collective collective rights poses thethe state and the bargainingbargaining rights poses to the statetoand country. “Make no mistake, Ohio is at the center of a larger plan to destroy working families, the middle class, and the labor movement,” said SIU President Michael Sacco in a communication to members. “By attempting to eliminate collective bargaining rights from the workers who serve us, nurses and firefighters would’ve been unable to negotiate safe staffing levels or training, and teachers could have no longer been able to negotiate sensible class sizes. I applaud the citizens of Ohio for taking a brave stand against the attacks from the radical right-wing against Ohio’s, and America’s, working people.” AFL-CIO President Richard Trumka, who was in Ohio going door-to-door to generate support, agreed. “Tonight’s victory represents a turning point in our Log-A-Rhythm Editor’s note: The following poem was written by Samantha, daughter of Recertified Bosun Jesse Natividad. Perilous months on open sea Traveling to where most will never be Surrounded ’til water’s all you can see Watching wild dolphins catch wake with glee Seeing sights many only see in dreams The world calls on you for their deliveries But does it make it all better to know from me The words sent from your family: “We love you, Daddy!” 14 Seafarers LOG 67280_LOG_X.indd 14 collective work to protect good jobs, working families and workplace rights,” said Trumka. “But it’s more than that. It’s a long-overdue return to common sense. From the very beginning of our jobs crisis, anti-worker politicians like Ohio’s Gov. Kasich have used our poor economy to push a cynical political agenda that favors the richest one percent at the expense of the 99 percent. Today, Ohio voters rejected that agenda.” Issue 2 was created in response to Ohio Senate Bill 5 (SB5). Ohio Gov. John Kasich, who was elected in 2010, rode the anti-worker and anti-union wave that followed those elections in places like Wisconsin, Michigan, Florida and others. Like Wisconsin Gov. Scott Walker, who pushed a plan to attack middle-class families in his state, Kasich and his allies introduced SB5 which, among other things, eliminated collective bargaining rights for the state’s teachers, firefighters, police officers, and other public employees. Following public outrage, several groups were formed to take action against the bill and restore rights to Ohio’s workers. We Are Ohio, a group made up of civic, religious, community, and labor organizations, led the charge against Kasich and SB5 by circulating a petition that would put SB5 up to a public vote. The petition ended up with more than one million signatures, well above the number needed to put Issue 2 on the ballot. After a strong push by We Are Ohio and other groups, voters in Ohio chose to repeal SB5 by a 61.3 percent to 38.7 percent margin. The fight against SB5 became about more than just reestablishing hard-fought rights for public sector workers, according to pundits, labor officials and others. For many, the struggle to repeal SB5 was about the future of the middle class in America, the role of organized labor, and the importance of workers’ rights in this country. Some see the results as an affirmation of the importance that unions play in the lives of America’s working class. “In my time as labor secretary, I’ve seen firsthand time and time again how unions make remarkable contributions to the strength and prosperity of our nation,” said Solis. “In workplaces across the country, collective bargaining is helping businesses improve their bottom line, providing tax payers with high-quality services, making workplaces safer and more productive, and ensuring that all Americans have the opportunity to make it into the middle class.” Voters in Ohio strongly agreed with this sentiment (displayed on a homemade sign in Columbus), as reflected in their defeat of an anti-worker measure that attacked collective bargaining rights. December 2011 11/22/2011 6:47:05 PM �  Dispatchers’ Report for Deep Sea Sworn In at Honolulu Hall October 16, 2011 - November 15, 2011 At the union hall in Honolulu, Patrolman Warren Asp (left in both photos) presents full B-books to Chief Steward Toney Morris (above) and AB Jerwin Ablan (below). January & February 2012 Membership Meetings Piney Point........................Monday: January 2, February 6 Algonac.............................Friday: January 6, February 10 Baltimore.........................Thursday: January 5, February 9 Guam...........................Thursday: January 19, February 23 Honolulu..........................Friday: January 13, February 17 Houston............................Monday: January 9, February 13 Jacksonville.....................Thursday: January 5, February 9 Joliet...........................Thursday: January 12, February 16 Mobile......................Wednesday: January 11, February 15 New Orleans.....................Tuesday: January 10, February 14 New York.........................Tuesday: January 3, February 7 Norfolk............................Thursday: January 5, February 9 Oakland.......................Thursday: January 12, February 16 Philadelphia.................Wednesday: January 4, February 8 Port Everglades...........Thursday: January 12, February 16 San Juan..........................Thursday: January 5, February 9 St. Louis...........................Friday: January 13, February 17 Tacoma............................Friday: January 20, February 24 Wilmington..Monday: January 16, *Tuesday: February 21 * Wilmington change created by Presidents Day holiday December 2011 67280_LOG.indd 15 Port Total Registered All Groups A B C Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS 12 1 10 12 6 9 51 37 2 12 9 43 25 31 6 0 7 33 2 33 341 11 1 10 8 1 3 12 25 7 6 7 22 35 9 6 3 5 18 1 19 209 0 0 1 4 0 0 4 2 1 0 2 3 4 1 0 0 2 3 0 1 28 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS 4 0 3 7 1 9 15 15 2 9 9 17 15 15 2 0 1 12 3 9 148 2 0 4 5 2 5 14 18 0 3 3 7 18 9 4 3 5 9 3 20 134 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS 4 0 2 13 2 6 15 13 1 6 4 20 12 23 2 5 2 18 0 26 174 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS GRAND TOTAL: Total Shipped All Groups A B Deck Department 13 6 1 3 7 4 12 8 3 3 5 1 37 6 21 22 0 4 5 2 11 5 34 6 20 15 15 9 4 1 0 0 3 3 28 13 0 0 18 14 237 125 C Trip Reliefs Registered on Beach All Groups A B C 1 0 2 0 1 1 1 0 0 0 0 1 1 0 0 0 1 5 0 3 17 1 1 6 9 0 1 22 18 1 1 4 22 7 5 3 0 4 16 0 11 132 14 2 10 18 7 21 81 57 4 23 23 88 33 44 8 1 11 51 4 50 550 12 2 15 19 4 10 28 45 5 10 10 40 50 21 10 4 15 26 1 45 372 1 0 0 5 0 1 8 7 1 1 3 4 8 3 1 0 1 6 0 8 58 Engine Department 3 1 3 0 1 0 0 0 2 1 3 1 0 3 0 0 6 3 2 12 11 0 10 13 0 2 0 0 4 3 0 3 1 2 11 12 2 5 11 1 6 9 0 2 0 0 0 0 0 3 3 1 8 7 0 1 0 1 3 9 13 84 88 3 0 0 0 0 1 2 0 0 0 0 1 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 9 1 0 1 2 0 1 7 6 0 1 2 6 4 4 0 0 2 2 1 3 43 5 0 6 13 3 22 30 30 2 12 12 19 25 23 6 0 4 21 4 17 254 2 0 9 9 2 4 19 46 1 3 5 12 35 18 8 5 9 15 6 25 233 1 0 0 1 0 0 2 1 0 0 0 4 2 1 0 0 0 1 1 12 26 3 0 1 5 2 3 6 3 0 2 3 10 10 3 0 2 1 5 1 3 63 Steward Department 1 3 3 0 0 0 0 3 1 1 7 2 1 1 2 0 6 1 0 9 3 0 15 6 1 1 0 0 2 1 2 4 0 0 16 3 1 6 3 2 9 3 0 1 0 0 1 1 0 0 1 0 12 5 0 2 0 1 17 5 10 115 40 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 5 0 0 1 5 0 1 5 10 0 2 2 10 2 6 0 0 0 5 0 14 63 3 0 3 16 4 12 34 23 1 11 9 33 19 31 4 5 3 30 1 53 295 4 0 3 8 3 3 12 8 0 5 2 10 20 6 0 3 2 9 2 7 107 0 0 0 1 1 3 0 3 1 0 2 0 1 4 0 0 0 0 0 0 16 3 0 1 0 0 1 5 3 0 0 0 3 1 7 0 0 1 7 0 11 43 6 2 4 9 1 6 12 18 0 4 1 24 20 16 3 6 1 14 1 16 164 Entry Department 9 3 5 2 0 0 1 0 0 3 0 3 1 0 0 7 1 4 6 3 7 9 0 8 1 0 0 2 0 0 2 0 1 12 5 18 19 0 11 5 3 6 0 0 1 30 0 5 2 0 0 6 3 8 2 0 0 2 5 7 121 23 84 7 0 0 0 1 3 1 2 0 0 1 3 5 2 1 20 0 3 0 5 54 1 0 0 1 0 1 6 0 0 0 0 1 0 1 1 2 0 2 0 3 19 2 0 1 0 0 5 6 7 0 1 3 9 1 8 0 0 1 11 1 12 68 7 4 9 15 3 12 27 36 1 10 7 48 41 32 4 3 2 21 3 45 330 19 3 3 9 1 6 13 23 4 5 6 18 44 27 2 11 2 6 1 27 230 706 570 172 85 257 1,167 1,042 330 459 337 Seafarers LOG 15 11/21/2011 11:15:34 AM �Inquiring Seafarer Seafarers International Union Directory Michael Sacco, President Augustin Tellez, Executive Vice President David Heindel, Secretary-Treasurer George Tricker, Vice President Contracts Tom Orzechowski, Vice President Lakes and Inland Waters Dean Corgey, Vice President Gulf Coast Nicholas J. Marrone, Vice President West Coast Joseph T. Soresi, Vice President Atlantic Coast Kermett Mangram, Vice President Government Services HEADQUARTERS 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746 (301) 899-0675 ALGONAC 520 St. Clair River Dr., Algonac, MI 48001 (810) 794-4988 ANCHORAGE 721 Sesame St., #1C, Anchorage, AK 99503 (907) 561-4988 BALTIMORE 2315 Essex St., Baltimore, MD 21224 (410) 327-4900 GUAM P.O. Box 3328, Hagatna, Guam 96932 Cliffline Office Ctr. Bldg., Suite 103B 422 West O’Brien Dr., Hagatna, Guam 96910 (671) 477-1350 HONOLULU 606 Kalihi St., Honolulu, HI 96819 (808) 845-5222 HOUSTON 1221 Pierce St., Houston, TX 77002 (713) 659-5152 JACKSONVILLE 5100 Belfort Rd., Jacksonville, FL 32256 (904) 281-2622 JOLIET 10 East Clinton St., Joliet, IL 60432 (815) 723-8002 MOBILE 1640 Dauphin Island Pkwy, Mobile, AL 36605 (251) 478-0916 Editor’s note: This month’s question was answered by SIU members at the hall in Tacoma, Wash. What are some of the less obvious benefits of your profession – for instance, things that may not pertain to the work itself? Keesha Smith-Holloway Chief Steward This industry gives us the ability to take the time out to donate, to help and to volunteer. It makes me feel great, especially because I have the energy to do it. I don’t have to work all day, every day. I don’t have to sit in traffic. I have a lot of time to spend with my daughter, to volunteer at her school, and to be an active part of the community. Sherman Anderson Recertified Steward As far as extracurricular activities go, I help out here at the hall as often as I can. I’ve helped at the barbecues over the past four or five years. I’m able to use my skills as a chief steward to pitch in during events like the annual barbecue…. I’ve been sailing 35 years, paying dues for 35 years, and giving to SPAD for 35 years. I recently got pneumonia and the plan paid $50,000 for my medical bills, which is something I never would’ve been able to get if I wasn’t a union member. Duane Akers Medical Dept. Representative I’ve been doing community service for 30 years, primarily working with kids. They are our future, plain and simple. If we don’t have people out there set- ting examples for our kids, where are they going to go? We’ve seen bad things happen to good kids all the time. On the other hand, I’ve seen hundreds of kids that I’ve coached and mentored over the years become successful members of the community. It’s a great feeling. Linda Barber Chief Cook I’m helping to support four grandchildren and because of the benefits of being a Seafarer, the whole family is able to participate in things we wouldn’t be able to do otherwise. Financially, my grandkids can participate in sports and join clubs and other things, and I also have the time to help out, watch over the kids, and make sure they’re keeping busy. When people pull together and help each other, it really changes the whole atmosphere of people’s lives. Daniel Siegel Recertified Bosun I participated in a rally for (Congressman) Rick Larsen up in Everett, Wash. We were trying to help him get elected to Congress. Political action is important because it’s really about our jobs. I also help out with my family, my grandkids. As a family, we’ve also helped out in the community, painting houses for the less fortunate. But mostly, I’m helping out where I can and when I can. Pic-From-The-Past NEW ORLEANS 3911 Lapalco Blvd., Harvey, LA 70058 (504) 328-7545 NEW YORK 635 Fourth Ave., Brooklyn, NY 11232 (718) 499-6600 Government Services Division: (718) 499-6600 NORFOLK 115 Third St., Norfolk, VA 23510 (757) 622-1892 OAKLAND 1121 7th St., Oakland, CA 94607 (510) 444-2360 PHILADELPHIA 2604 S. 4 St., Philadelphia, PA 19148 (215) 336-3818 PINEY POINT P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674 (301) 994-0010 PORT EVERGLADES 1221 S. Andrews Ave., Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33316 (954) 522-7984 SANTURCE 1057 Fernandez Juncos Ave., Stop 16 Santurce, PR 00907 (787) 721-4033 ST. LOUIS/ALTON 4581 Gravois Ave., St. Louis, MO 63116 (314) 752-6500 TACOMA 3411 South Union Ave., Tacoma, WA 98409 (253) 272-7774 WILMINGTON 510 N. Broad Ave., Wilmington, CA 90744 (310) 549-4000 This Seafarers LOG file photo from early 1949 shows members socializing over a friendly game at the New York hall. If anyone has a vintage union-related photograph he or she would like to share with other Seafarers LOG readers, please send it to the Seafarers LOG, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. Photographs will be returned, if so requested. High-resolution digital images may be sent to webmaster@seafarers.org 16 Seafarers LOG 67280_LOG.indd 16 December 2011 11/21/2011 11:15:39 AM �  Welcome Ashore Each month, the Seafarers LOG pays tribute to the SIU members who have devoted their working lives to sailing aboard U.S.-flag vessels on the deep seas, inland waterways or Great Lakes. Listed below are brief biographical sketches of those members who recently retired from the union. The brothers and sisters of the SIU thank those members for a job well done and wish them happiness and good health in the days ahead. DEEP SEA WAYNE CASEY Brother Wayne Casey, 65, signed on with the Seafarers in 1968. He originally worked aboard the Boston. In 1996 and 2001, Brother Casey took advantage of educational opportunities at the SIU-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. His final voyage was on the Horizon Kodiak. Brother Casey was born in Portland, Ore., and sailed in the deck department. He makes his home in Windham, Maine. ROBERTO CONTRERAS Brother Roberto Contreras, 65, began sailing with the union in 1993. He attended classes on numerous occasions at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. Brother Contreras, who sailed in the deck department, most recently shipped aboard the Maersk Virginia. He is a resident of Humble, Texas. DANIEL DONEGAN Brother Daniel Donegan, 68, joined the SIU ranks in 2001 as the NMU was merging into the SIU. He sailed in the deck department. Brother Donegan worked aboard the Green Point for the duration of his career. He makes his home in Norfolk, Va. MICHAEL GACIALA Brother Michael Gaciala, 70, started sailing with the union in 1993. He upgraded in 2008 at the Piney Point school. Brother Gaciala was born in New York and shipped in the engine department. His final trip was on the Meteor. Brother Gaciala calls Denville, N.J., home. RUDOLPH GIBSON Brother Rudolph Gibson, 67, signed on with the union in 1994. The steward department member was born in Barbados. In 2001, Brother Gibson attended classes at the Seafarersaffiliated school in Piney Point. His last voyage was aboard the APL Japan. Brother Gibson settled in Brooklyn, N.Y. JORGE MORA Brother Jorge Mora, 68, donned the SIU colors in 1991 in the port of New York. His earliest trip was on the USNS Chauvenet. Brother Mora was born in Ecuador and was a frequent upgrader at the Paul Hall Cen- December 2011 67280_LOG.indd 17 ter. His most recent trip was aboard the Maersk Iowa. Brother Mora, who sailed in the steward department, lives in Allentown, Pa. EVELYN NORDBROK Sister Evelyn Nordbrok, 71, was born in Accoville, W.Va. She joined the union in 1990. Sister Nordbrok initially worked on the USNS H.H. Hess. In 2004, she upgraded at the maritime training center in Piney Point, Md. The engine department member’s final trip was aboard the Sumner. Sister Nordbrok resides in Corapeake, N.C. WINSTON PUERTO Brother Winston Puerto, 69, became an SIU member in 2002 while in the port of Fort Lauderdale. His earliest voyage was on the Little Hales. Brother Puerto last sailed on the Chemical Pioneer. He was a member of the deck department. Brother Puerto calls Miami Gardens, Fla., home. ELLIOTT RHODES Brother Elliott Rhodes, 61, began sailing with the union in 1969. He was born in Norfolk, Va., and sailed in both the engine and steward departments. Brother Rhodes’ earliest trip was on the Cosmos Mariner. He most recently shipped aboard the President Polk. Brother Rhodes is a resident of Hampton, Va. BRADLEY SEIBEL Brother Bradley Seibel, 49, started sailing with the SIU in 1985 from the port of St. Louis. He initially worked aboard the Delta Queen. Brother Seibel upgraded on numerous occasions at the Piney Point school. He shipped in the deck department. Brother Seibel’s final trip was on the Overseas Los Angeles. He continues to make his home in his native state, Ohio. STEVEN WAGNER Brother Steven Wagner, 55, donned the SIU colors in 1978. His earliest trip was on the LNG Gemini. Brother Wagner often attended classes at the Paul Hall Center. His most recent trip was aboard the Integrity. Brother Wagner, who sailed in the steward department, lives in Leavenworth, Ind. final trip was aboard a Luedtke Engineering Company vessel. He calls Niles, Miss., home. INLAND Brother Michael Wilburn, 57, became a Seafarer in 1974 while in the port of Norfolk, Va. His first vessel was operated by Allied Transportation Company. Brother Wilburn upgraded in 1974 and 2001 at the maritime training center in Piney Point, Md. He was born in Maryland and worked in the deck department. Brother Wilburn’s most recent trip was aboard an OSG Ship Management boat. He is a resident of Virginia. STUART STEPHENS Brother Stuart Stephens, 62, signed on with the union in 1997 while in the port of Jacksonville, Fla. He primarily worked aboard vessels operated by Crowley Towing & Transportation of Jacksonville. In 2000 and 2001, Brother Stephens took advantage of educational opportunities available at the Seafarers-affiliated school in Piney Point. He resides in Port Orange, Fla. WILLIAM WEST Brother William West, 62, joined the SIU ranks in 1976. He was initially employed with H&M Lake Transport Ltd. Brother West upgraded often at the Paul Hall Center. The Mississippi native’s MICHAEL WILBURN PERRY WILLIS Brother Perry Willis, 64, joined the SIU in 1970. He sailed with Interstate Oil Transportation Company for the duration of his career. Brother Willis was a deck department member. He lives in Sea Level, N.C. GREAT LAKES HARRY PETERSEN Brother Harry Petersen, 65, joined the union in 1967. He initially sailed with Pringle Transit Company. Brother Petersen worked in the steward department. He attended classes in 2006 at the Piney Point school. Brother Petersen last shipped on the Sgt. Matej Kocak. He makes his home in Milwaukee.. NATIONAL MARITIME UNION EDWARD LEE Brother Edward Lee, 64, started sailing with the SIU in 2001 when the NMU merged into the Seafarers International Union. He was born in Mobile, Ala. Brother Lee’s final voyage was aboard the USNS Shoshone. He continues to reside in his native state. This Month In SIU History Editor’s note: The following items are re reprinted from previous editions of the Seafarers LOG. 1940 The Seafarers International Union remained undefeated in representation elections by winning a National Labor Relations Board election aboard Calmar Line ships by a vote of 323-9. Of 340 men aboard Calmar Line who voted, only nine went against the union and eight ballots were ruled invalid by the board. The lopsided victory was the third recent success for the SIU in representation elections aboard ship. Previously, the union easily won elections to represent seamen working aboard P&O and Baltimore Insular Line ships. The fact that the SIU has never lost a representation election in the two years since the union was founded shows that working seamen consider it the best organization to represent their interests. 1962 The Seafarers International Union and other member unions of the AFL-CIO Maritime Trades Department are giving full support to a strike by members of the International Longshoremen’s Association in ports from Maine to Texas. The walkout followed the shippers’ rejection of an ILA offer of a two-year contract during which the key issue of manpower would be studied by a panel with recommendations to be made at the conclusion of the agreement. The ILA, through Executive Vice President Teddy Gleason, who is the chairman of the union’s negotiating commit- tee, has accused the shippers of not bargaining in good faith. 1981 With actions ranging from economic sanctions to public protests, the Reagan Administration, the U.S. trade union movement and the American public have demonstrated their outrage at the imposition of martial law by the authorities in Poland. On Dec. 12, the military government of Poland suspended the civil rights of the Polish people, disbanded the Solidarity trade union, and arrested and jailed thousands of its members including Solidarity leader Lech Walesa. In major cities through the Unites States and around the world, the AFL-CIO, Polish-American, and civic, religious and civil rights groups protested the actions of the Polish government. 1998 At 11:10 a.m. on Dec. 10, maritime labor history was made when officials of the Seafarers International Union of North America and the National Maritime Union signed an affiliation agreement bringing the NMU under the banner of the SIUNA. The affiliation means that all the major U.S. unlicensed unions are now part of the same organization. The agreement also brought an end to 60 years of fighting between the two organizations. “This is an historic day, one that has been too long in coming,” SIU President Michael Sacco stated. (Editor’s note: The NMU later merged into the SIU-AGLIWD, in 2001.) Seafarers LOG 17 11/21/2011 11:15:42 AM �Final Departures DEEP SEA DIRK ADAMS Pensioner Dirk Adams, 51, passed away June 21. Brother Adams began shipping with the SIU in 1983 from the port of San Francisco. His earliest trip to sea was aboard the Libra. Brother Adams was a native of Spain. Prior to his retirement in 2009, he sailed on the Horizon Consumer. Brother Adams, a member of the deck department, made his home in Huntington Beach, Calif. HECTOR AGUILAR Pensioner Hector Aguilar, 70, died May 11. Brother Aguilar started his seafaring career in 1990 while in the port of Wilmington, Calif. He originally sailed aboard the Independence as a member of the steward department. Brother Aguilar’s final trip was on the Coast Range. He went on pension in 2006. Brother Aguilar settled in San Pedro, Calif. LOUIS BABIN Pensioner Louis Babin, 80, passed away July 8. Brother Babin first donned the SIU colors in 1951 while in the port of New York. His earliest trip was aboard the Evelyn. Brother Babin, a member of the steward department, was born in Louisiana. He most recently shipped on the Stonewall Jackson. Brother Babin began collecting his retirement compensation in 1993. He was a resident of Scottsdale, Ariz. department. He last sailed on the Lawrence Gianella. Brother Lovelace retired in 1983 and continued to reside in his native state. DONALD DILLEY Pensioner Donald Dilley, 60, passed away March 24. Brother Dilley began sailing with the Seafarers in 1989 from the port of San Francisco. His earliest trip to sea was aboard the Overseas Juneau. Brother Dilley’s final voyage was on the Constellation. The steward department member made his home in Concord, Calif. DONALD FLEMING Pensioner Donald Fleming, 85, died May 20. Brother Fleming was born in Nebraska. He started shipping with the union in 1967. Brother Fleming first worked aboard the Panoceanic Faith. Prior to his retirement in 1990, he sailed on the Pride of Texas. Brother Fleming was a member of the deck department. He was a resident of Arizona. ERDWIN FUENTES Pensioner Erdwin Fuentes, 68, passed away June 8. Brother Fuentes signed on with the SIU in 1973 while in the port of New Orleans. He was a Mexico native and worked in the engine department. Brother Fuentes initially sailed on the Erna Elizabeth. Before retiring in 2008, he shipped aboard the Robert E. Lee. Brother Fuentes called New Orleans home. FRANCISCO BRAVO RONALD GIANNINI Pensioner Francisco Bravo, 66, died July 10. Brother Bravo signed on with the union in 1999 while in the port of New York. He first shipped on the USNS Yano. Brother Bravo was born in Nicaragua and worked in the deck department. His final voyage was aboard the USNS Denebola. Brother Bravo became a pensioner in 2011 and lived in Baltimore. Brother Ronald Giannini, 49, died May 31. Brother Giannini joined the union in 1982. The engine department member initially shipped on the Sealand Mariner. Brother Giannini’s final trip was aboard the USNS Antares. He lived in Lexington Park, Md. ANDRES CRUZ Brother Andres Cruz, 61, passed away May 15. Brother Cruz joined the union in 2002 in Houston. During his seafaring career he sailed aboard ships including the Manoa and the Swift. Brother Cruz worked in the steward department. He settled in Houston. DAVID EDWARDS Pensioner David Edwards, 89, died June 1. Brother Edwards became an SIU member in 1943. He initially shipped aboard the Loveland. Brother Edwards was born in Mobile, Ala., and worked in the steward 18 Seafarers LOG 67280_LOG.indd 18 JAIME HERNANDEZ Brother Jamie Hernandez, 54, passed away June 12. Brother Hernandez became a Seafarer in 1977 in Piney Point, Md. He originally sailed with National Marine Service Inc. The Houston native was a member of the engine department. Brother Hernandez most recently sailed aboard the Maersk Nebraska. He continued to reside in Texas. LEO KARTTUNEN Pensioner Leo Karttunen, 88, died June 17. Brother Karttunen began sailing with the SIU in 1946 while in the port of New York. He was born in Finland. Brother Karttunen initially shipped on the Cathrine. His final ship was the Adventurer. Brother Karttunen, who sailed in the engine department, went on pension in 1986. He was a resident of New York. JOHN KONETES Pensioner John Konetes, 65, passed away May 19. Brother Konetes first donned the SIU colors in 1964. His initial voyage took place aboard the Steel Advocate. Brother Konetes, who sailed in the deck department, was born in New Hanover, N.C. He last sailed on the USNS Wright. Brother Konetes retired in 2007 and made his home in Wilmington, N.C. JESUS LANDRON Pensioner Jesus Landron, 90, died July 20. Brother Landron was born in Puerto Rico. He became a pensioner in 1969 and settled in Brooklyn, N.Y. SAMUEL LOFTIN Pensioner Samuel Loftin, 78, passed away May 20. Brother Loftin signed on with the SIU in 1963. He was born in Alabama and worked in the steward department. Brother Loftin originally sailed with Waterman Steamship Corporation. He last sailed aboard the Champion. Brother Loftin went on pension in 1994 and continued to live in his native state. JAMES LOMAX Pensioner James Lomax, 88, died May 13. Brother Lomax joined the SIU in 1946. He first worked with Waterman Steamship Corporation as a member of the steward department. Brother Lomax’s final trip was aboard the McLean. He went on pension in 1982 and lived in Satsuma, Ala. HAROLD LONG Pensioner Harold Long, 91, passed away July 4. Brother Long began shipping with the SIU in 1947. His earliest trip to sea was aboard the Arlyn. Prior to his retirement in 1985, he sailed on the Dynachem. Brother Long, a member of the deck department, made his home in Graceland, La. JOHN LUNDBORG Pensioner John Lundborg, 77, died May 9. Brother Lundborg started sailing with the Seafarers in 1962. His earliest trip was on the Steel Worker. Brother Lundborg was born in Sweden and shipped in the deck department. He most recently sailed aboard the North Star. Brother Lundborg began collecting his retirement pay in 1994. He settled in Puyallup, Wash. EDWARD McCORMICK aboard the Stonewall Jackson. Brother Penney went on pension in 2002 and called Bush, La., home. ALEXANDER REYER Pensioner Alexander Reyer, 60, died June 10. Brother Reyer started his seafaring career in 1978 while in San Francisco. He originally sailed aboard the Santa Magdelena as a member of the steward department. Brother Reyer was born in Baltimore. His final trip was on the Taurus. Brother Reyer began collecting his pension in 2001. He made his home in San Francisco. Pensioner Edward McCormick, 92, passed away July 19. Brother McCormick first donned the SIU colors in 1952. He was born in Scotland. Brother McCormick’s first vessel was operated by Seatrain Lines. His last ship was James River Transport ship James. He retired in 1984 and made his home in New Jersey. MARCIAL RUIZ RALPH MORGAN YOKIE SUDJONO Pensioner Ralph Morgan, 79, died June 4. Brother Morgan became an SIU member in 1992 while in Seattle. He initially shipped aboard the Independence. Brother Morgan was born in Massachusetts and worked in the steward department. He last sailed on the Enterprise. Brother Morgan went on pension in 2002. He called Nevada home. Brother Yokie Sudjono, 64, died July 11. Brother Sudjono first donned the SIU colors in 1991 in the port of New York. His first vessel was the USNS Denebola; his last, the Missouri. Brother Sudjono worked in the deck department. He was born in Indonesia but called New Hampshire home. ANTHONY NIEKRASZ Brother Anthony Niekrasz, 39, passed away May 6. He signed on with the union in 1993. Brother Niekrasz primarily shipped on vessels operated by Bay Ship Management which included the USNS Silas Bent and USNS Potomac. He worked in the engine department. Brother Niekrasz lived in Jersey City, N.J. MOSE PEACOCK Pensioner Mose Peacock, 65, died July 1. Brother Peacock began his SIU career in 1978 while in the port of San Francisco. He was a Florida native and worked in the steward department. Brother Peacock initially sailed on the Santa Maria. Prior to his retirement in 2005, he shipped aboard the Lightning. Brother Peacock was a resident of Bradenton, Fla. WILLIAM PENNEY Pensioner William Penney, 72, passed away July 6. Brother Penney joined the Seafarers in 1957. His initial trip was on the Del Norte. Brother Penney, who sailed in the deck department, last shipped Pensioner Marcial Ruiz, 74, passed away June 15. Brother Ruiz became an SIU member in 1977. He initially worked aboard the USNS Potomac. Brother Ruiz sailed in the engine department. Prior to his retirement in 2001, he shipped on the Overseas Valdez. Brother Ruiz resided in Houston. GLENN TENLEY Pensioner Glenn Tenley, 82, passed away May 21. Brother Tenley signed on with the union in 1953, originally working aboard the Arizpa. He was an engine department member. Brother Tenley last sailed on the Borinquen. He went on pension in 1993 and lived in Perkasie, Pa. HERMAN ULRICH Pensioner Herman Ulrich, 93, died May 14. Brother Ulrich joined the SIU in 1961. The engine department member initially shipped aboard a vessel operated by Ocean Clipper Inc. Brother Ulrich’s final trip was aboard the Charles Brown. He made his home in Bakersfield, Calif. HUMBERT VINA Pensioner Humbert Vina, 89, passed away May 6. Brother Vina began shipping with the SIU in 1952. His Continued on Page 21 December 2011 11/21/2011 11:15:45 AM �  Digest of Shipboard Union Meetings CHAMPION (Maersk Line, Limited), August 15 – Chairman Thomas W. Grosskurth, Secretary Willie E. Massaline, Educational Director Dennis R. Baker, Deck Delegate Daniel A. Tennant, Steward Delegate Richard L. Jones, Engine Delegate Gregorio A. Blanco. Chairman thanked crew for a safe voyage and announced payoff on October 9 in New Jersey. He informed all present that sanitation inspection went well and reminded members to read president’s report in the Seafarers LOG. Secretary encouraged seafarers to contribute to SPAD (Seafarers Political Activity Donation) and do jobs diligently. Members were also urged to support our union leadership now and in the future. Educational director reminded crew that upgrading applications are in the Seafarers LOG and that they should check class schedules and take advantage of the Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Chairman stated that he talked to captain about washing machine in crew laundry and was told new washing machine to be purchased in Newark, N.J. Steward department was thanked for great food. Next port: Elizabeth, N.J. INDIANA HARBOR (American Steamship Company), September 5 – Chairman Scott E. Krajniak, Secretary Maccine M. Bell, Educational Director Daniel A. Lind, Deck Delegate Jeremy Shenett. Bosun reported that changes to company payroll will be postponed until fit out 2012. He urged crew members to check expiration dates and renew documents in a timely fashion. Seafarers were encouraged to support SPAD and Maritime Defense League (MDL). Secretary asked mariners to leave rooms clean and provide fresh linen for reliefs. He also advised them to register at their local union hall within 72 hours of discharge. Educational director urged crew to attend classes at the union-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md., and noted 401K packets are still available. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Deck delegate talked about change in weather and reminded members to secure loose items. ADAM E. CORNELIUS (American Steamship Company), September 15 – Chairman Mohamed H. Mohamed, Secretary Yvonne Feltham, Educational Director Abdulmoghni M. Said, Deck Delegate Julio Alvarez, Engine Delegate Jessie Parente. Chairman led a discussion on new contract and suggested members read the president’s report printed monthly in the Seafarers LOG. It was noted that company now has direct deposit available. Secretary asked members to keep galley doors closed due to flies. Educational director advised all mariners to enhance skills at the maritime training center in Piney Point, Md. No beefs or disputed OT December 2011 67280_LOG.indd 19 The Seafarers LOG attempts to print as many digests of union shipboard minutes as possible. On occasion, because of space limitations, some will be omitted. Ships’ minutes first are reviewed by the union’s contract department. Those issues requiring attention or resolution are addressed by the union upon receipt of the ships’ minutes. The minutes are then forwarded to the Seafarers LOG for publication. Fellow Mariners Remember Late Brother Thomas Wybo Seafarers and officers aboard Crowley’s Cape Isabel on Aug. 25 conducted a memorial service for Recertified Steward Thomas Wybo, who passed away earlier that month, less than a week shy of his 54th birthday. These photos were taken as Brother Wybo’s cremains were committed to the sea while the vessel sailed from Portland, Ore., to Long Beach, Calif. Brother Wybo sailed with the SIU for 22 years, and the Cape Isabel was one of his last ships. reported. Crew was advised to keep up with and register TRBs. Request was made for new couches and chairs in rec room. AMERICAN SPIRIT (American Steamship Company), September 30 – Chairman Paul Gohs, Secretary Joyce Sufak, Educational Director Michael Kruse, Deck Delegate Timothy Dewine. Chairman stated that copies would soon be available of the new contract. He informed crew members that a complete listing of courses offered at the Paul Hall Center was in the rec room. Educational director reminded crew to get their time in and take advantage of upgrading at Piney Point. He also talked about the importance of keeping documents current. No beefs or disputed OT reported. With winter approaching mariners were reminded to keep an eye out for safety hazards and report them promptly. HORIZON RELIANCE (Horizon Lines), September 25 – Chairman Kissinfor Taylor, Secretary Joseph A. Laureta, Educational Director David Watkins, Deck Delegate Wilfredo Caidoy, Engine Delegate Cirico Geonanga, Steward Delegate Teresito Reyes. Bosun went over ship’s itinerary and asked crew members to contribute to having satellite fixed. Secretary requested that crew pick up their mess after watching TV in crew lounge. Educational director advised everyone to upgrade at the SIU-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md., and make sure they stay up-to-date on their TWIC and MMD/MMC. Treasurer reported $978 in ship’s fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Thanks given to the steward department for a job well done. Next ports: Los Angeles and Honolulu. HORIZON EAGLE (Horizon Lines), September 18 – Chairman Lance Zollner, Secretary Rang V. Nguyen, Educational Director Michael D. Murphy, Deck Delegate Robert Borchester, Engine Delegate Warren H. Wright, Steward Delegate Mario M. Firm. Chairman reported a smooth voyage and announced payoff September 25 upon arrival in Los Angeles. Secretary encouraged members to donate to SPAD and stay current on union dues. He expressed gratitude for help keeping ship clean. Educational director suggested Seafarers take advantage of courses available at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. No beefs or disputed OT reported. SIU crew and officers recently earned safety recognition for three years without a lost-time injury. Next ports: Los Angeles and Oakland, Cailf. MAERSK VIRGINIA (Maersk Line, Limited), September 30 – Chairman Mohamed S. Ahmed, Secretary Hugh E. Wildermuth, Educational Director Donald M. Christian, Deck Delegate Damon Lobel, Engine Delegate Antoine Rainey, Steward Delegate Jose P. Constantino. Chairman stated payoff to take place in Newark, N.J., on October 3. Secretary reported great cooperation among crew and thanked them for staying safe and alert. Educational director urged mariners to upgrade at the Piney Point school. Treasurer noted $2,500 in ship’s fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Parts have been ordered for washing machine and a new dishwasher to be purchased in Norfolk, Va. Next ports: Newark, N.J., Savannah, Ga., Houston and Norfolk, Va. MAERSK KENTUCKY (Maersk Line, Limited), September 24 – Chairman William M. Richards, Secretary Pamela Wilson, Educational Director Brian J. Sengelaub, Engine Delegate Knolly Wiltshire. Chairman reported a safe trip and excellent food. Crew members worked hard during a hot and challenging voyage. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Information requested on new contract negotiations. Next ports: Charleston, S.C., and New York. OVERSEAS ANACORTES (OSG Ship Management), September 7 – Chairman Tony Beasley, Secretary Dana A. Paradise, Educational Director Carey G. Pratts, Deck Delegate Alfred Acheampong, Engine Delegate Carlos Castillo. Bosun discussed Manila Amendments to STCW Convention. Secretary reminded crew to see him for forms. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew was asked to keep noise down when watchstanders are sleeping. Next ports: Port Everglades, Fla., and Beaumont, Texas. LIBERTY GRACE (Liberty Maritime), September 11 – Chairman Ronald Charles, Secretary Pedro R. Mena, Educational Director Marc J. Poniatowski, Deck Delegate Walter Sainvil, Steward Delegate Wilfred Lambey. Chairman informed mariners vessel was heading to shipyard in Singapore. Secretary thanked crew for helping keep ship clean. Educational director recommended apprentices and entry levels enhance their skills ASAP. Treasurer noted $350 in ship’s fund. No beefs; disputed OT reported in the engine department. It was reported that a new dryer was needed. Cooperation requested in keeping crew laundry room in order. Seafarers LOG 19 11/21/2011 11:15:48 AM �Summary Annual Report for Seafarers Money Purchase Pension Plan This is a summary of the annual report for the Seafarers Money Purchase Pension Plan, (Employer Identification No. 52-1994914, Plan No. 001) for the period January 1, 2010 to December 31, 2010. The annual report has been filed with the Employee Benefits Security Administration, as required under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA). Basic Financial Statement Benefits under the plan are provided by a trust (benefits are provided in whole from trust funds). Plan expenses were $5,089,844. These expenses included $1,164,087 in administrative expenses and $3,925,757 in benefits paid to participants and beneficiaries. A total of 16,978 persons were participants in or beneficiaries of the plan at the end of the plan year, although not all of these persons had yet earned the right to receive benefits. The value of plan assets, after subtracting liabilities of the plan, was $78,273,129 as of December 31, 2010 compared to $70,463,917 as of January 1, 2010. During the plan year the plan experienced an increase in its net assets of $7,809,212. This increase includes unrealized appreciation or depreciation in the value of plan assets; that is, the difference between the value of the plan’s assets at the end of the year and the value of the assets at the beginning of the year, or the cost of assets acquired during the year. The plan had total income of $12,899,056, including employer contributions of $7,064,236, employee contributions of $64,530, gains of $55,833 from the sale of assets and earnings from investments of $5,714,457. Minimum Funding Standards Enough money was contributed to the plan to keep it funded in accordance with the minimum funding standards of ERISA. Your Rights to Additional Information You have the right to receive a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, on request. The items listed below are included in that report: 1. An accountant’s report; 2. Assets held for investment; and 3. Information regarding any common or collective trust, pooled separate accounts, master trusts or 103-12 investment entities in which the plan participates. To obtain a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, write or call the office of Margaret R. Bowen, Administrator, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746, (301) 899-0675. You also have the right to receive from the plan administrator, on request and at no charge, a statement of the assets and liabilities of the plan and accompanying notes, or a statement of income and expenses of the plan and accompanying notes, or both. If you request a copy of the full annual report from the plan administrator, these two statements and accompanying notes will be included as part of that report. These portions of the report are furnished without charge. You also have the legally protected right to examine the annual report at the main office of the plan: Plan Office, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746 and at the U.S. Department of Labor in Washington, D.C., or to obtain a copy from the U.S. Department of Labor upon payment of copying costs. Requests to the Department should be addressed to: U.S. Department of Labor, Employee Benefits Security Administration, Public Disclosure Room, 200 Constitution Avenue, NW, Suite N-1513, Washington, D.C. 20210. Summary Annual Report for Seafarers International Union AGLIWD 401(K) Plan This is a summary of the annual report for the Seafarers International Union AGLIWD 401(K) PLAN, (Employer Identification No. 26-1527179, Plan No. 002) for the period January 1, 2010 to December 31, 2010. The annual report has been filed with the Employee Benefits Security Administration, as required under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA). Basic Financial Statement Benefits under the plan are provided by a trust (benefits are provided in whole from trust funds). Plan expenses were $665,945. These expenses included $60,522 in administrative expenses, $529,575 in benefits paid to participants and beneficiaries and $75,848 in other expenses. A total of 9,821 persons were participants in or beneficiaries of the plan at the end of the plan year, although not all of these persons had yet earned the right to receive benefits. The value of plan assets, after subtracting liabilities of the plan, was $10,431,831 as of December 31, 2010 compared to $7,987,769 as of January 1, 2010. During the plan year the plan experienced an increase in its net assets of $2,444,062. This increase includes unrealized appreciation or depreciation in the value of plan assets; that is, the difference between the value of the plan’s assets at the end of the year and the value of the assets at the beginning of the year, or the cost of assets acquired during the year. The plan had total income of $3,110,007, including employee contributions of $1,857,055 and earnings from investments of $953,220. The plan has contracts with Massachusetts Mutual Life Insurance Company, and Ing Life Insurance and Annuity Company which allocate funds toward individual policies. The total premiums paid for the plan year ending December 31, 2010 were $0. Minimum Funding Standards Enough money was contributed to the plan to keep it funded in accordance with the minimum funding standards of ERISA. Your Rights to Additional Information You have the right to receive a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, on request. The items listed below are included in that report: 1. An accountant’s report; 2. Assets held for investment; 3. Insurance information including sales commissions paid by insurance carriers; and 4. Information regarding any common or collective trust, pooled separate accounts, master trusts or 103-12 investment entities in which the plan participates. To obtain a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, write or call the office of Margaret Bowen, Plan Administrator, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746, (301) 899-0675. You also have the right to receive from the plan administrator, on request and at no charge, a statement of the assets and liabilities of the plan and accompanying notes, or a statement of income and expenses of the plan and accompanying notes, or both. If you request a copy of the full annual report from the plan administrator, these two statements and accompanying notes will be included as part of that report. These portions of the report are furnished without charge. You also have the legally protected right to examine the annual report at the main office of the plan: Plan Office, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746 and at the U.S. Department of Labor in Washington, D.C., or to obtain a copy from the U.S. Department of Labor upon payment of copying costs. Requests to the Department should be addressed to: U.S. Department of Labor, Employee Benefits Security Administration, Public Disclosure Room, 200 Constitution Avenue, NW, Suite N-1513, Washington, D.C. 20210. Summary Annual Report For Seafarers Vacation Plan This is a summary of the annual report for the Seafarers Vacation Plan, (Employer Identification No. 13-5602047, Plan No. 503) for the period January 1, 2010 to December 31, 2010. The annual report has been filed with the Employee Benefits Security Administration, as required under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA). Basic Financial Statement The value of plan assets, after subtracting liabilities of the plan, was $23,731,867 as of December 31, 2010 compared to $22,945,269 as of January 1, 2010. During the plan year the plan experienced an increase in its net assets of $786,598. This increase includes unrealized appreciation or depreciation in the value of plan assets; that is, the difference between the value of the plan’s assets at the end of the year and the value of the assets at the beginning of the year, or the cost of assets acquired during the year. During the plan year, the plan had total income of $61,072,962. This income included employer contributions of $60,283,631, realized gains of $138,615 from the sale of assets and earnings from investments of $608,122. Plan expenses were $60,286,364. These expenses included $7,152,085 in administrative expenses and $53,134,279 in benefits paid to participants and beneficiaries. Your Rights to Additional Information You have the right to receive a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, on request. The items listed below are included in that report: 1. An accountant’s report; 2. Assets held for investment; and 3. Transactions in excess of 5 percent of the plan assets. To obtain a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, write or call the office of Margaret R. Bowen, Administrator, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746, (301) 899-0675. You also have the right to receive from the plan administrator, on request and at no charge, a statement of the assets and liabilities of the plan and accompanying notes, or a statement of income and expenses of the plan and accompanying notes, or both. If you request a copy of the full annual report from the plan administrator, these two statements and accompanying notes will be included as part of that report. These portions of the report are furnished without charge. You also have the legally protected right to examine the annual report at the main office of the plan: Plan Office, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746 and at the U.S. Department of Labor in Washington, D.C., or to obtain a copy from the U.S. Department of Labor upon payment of copying costs. Requests to the Department should be addressed to: U.S. Department of Labor, Employee Benefits Security Administration, Public Disclosure Room, 200 Constitution Avenue, NW, Suite N-1513, Washington, D.C. 20210. Know Your Rights FINANCIAL REPORTS. The Constitution of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/ NMU makes specific provision for safeguarding the membership’s money and union finances. The constitution requires a detailed audit by certified public accountants every year, which is to be submitted to the membership by the secretary-treasurer. A yearly finance committee of rank-and-file members, elected by the membership, each year examines the finances of the union and reports fully their findings and recommendations. Members of this committee may make dissenting reports, specific recommendations and separate findings. TRUST FUNDS. All trust funds of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU are administered in accordance with the provisions of various trust fund agreements. All these agreements specify that the trustees in charge of these funds shall equally consist of union and management representatives and their alternates. All expenditures and disbursements of trust funds are made only upon approval by a majority of the trustees. All trust fund financial records are available at the headquarters of the various trust funds. SHIPPING RIGHTS. A member’s shipping rights and seniority are protected exclusively by contracts between the union and the employers. Members should get to know their shipping rights. Copies of these contracts are posted and available in all union halls. If members believe there have been violations of their shipping or seniority rights as contained in the contracts between the union and the employers, they should notify the Seafarers Appeals Board by certified mail, return receipt requested. The proper address for this is: Augustin Tellez, Chairman Seafarers Appeals Board 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 Full copies of contracts as referred to are available to members at all times, either by writing directly to the union or to the Seafarers Appeals Board. CONTRACTS. Copies of all SIU contracts are available in all SIU halls. These contracts specify the wages and conditions under which an SIU member works and lives aboard a ship or boat. Members should know their contract rights, as well as their obligations, such as filing for overtime (OT) on the proper sheets and in the proper manner. If, at any time, a member believes that an SIU patrolman or other union official fails to protect their contractual rights properly, he or she should contact the nearest SIU port agent. EDITORIAL POLICY — THE SEAFARERS LOG. The Seafarers LOG traditionally has refrained from publishing any article serving the political purposes of any individual in the union, officer or member. It also has refrained from publishing articles deemed 20 Seafarers LOG 67280_LOG.indd 20 harmful to the union or its collective membership. This established policy has been reaffirmed by membership action at the September 1960 meetings in all constitutional ports. The responsibility for Seafarers LOG policy is vested in an editorial board which consists of the executive board of the union. The executive board may delegate, from among its ranks, one individual to carry out this responsibility. PAYMENT OF MONIES. No monies are to be paid to anyone in any official capacity in the SIU unless an official union receipt is given for same. Under no circumstances should any member pay any money for any reason unless he is given such receipt. In the event anyone attempts to require any such payment be made without supplying a receipt, or if a member is required to make a payment and is given an official receipt, but feels that he or she should not have been required to make such payment, this should immediately be reported to union headquarters. CONSTITUTIONAL RIGHTS AND OBLIGATIONS. Copies of the SIU Constitution are available in all union halls. All members should obtain copies of this constitution so as to familiarize themselves with its contents. Any time a member feels any other member or officer is attempting to deprive him or her of any constitutional right or obligation by any methods, such as dealing with charges, trials, etc., as well as all other details, the member so affected should immediately notify headquarters. EQUAL RIGHTS. All members are guaranteed equal rights in employment and as members of the SIU. These rights are clearly set forth in the SIU Constitution and in the contracts which the union has negotiated with the employers. Consequently, no member may be discriminated against because of race, creed, color, sex, national or geographic origin. If any member feels that he or she is denied the equal rights to which he or she is entitled, the member should notify union headquarters. MEMBER RIGHTS/LMRDA. The Labor-Management Reporting and Disclosure Act (LMRDA) guarantees certain rights to union members and imposes certain responsibilities on union officers. The Office of Labor-Management Standards (OLMS) enforces many LMRDA provisions while other provisions, such as the bill of rights, may only be enforced by union members through private suit in Federal court. Union Member Rights Bill of Rights: Union members have equal rights to participate in union activities; freedom of speech and assembly; a voice in setting rates of dues, fees and assessments; protection of the right to sue; and safeguards against improper discipline. Copies of Collective Bargaining Agreements: Union members and nonunion employees have the right to receive or inspect copies of collective bargaining agreements. Reports: Unions are required to file an initial information report (Form LM-1), copies of constitutions and bylaws, and an annual financial report (Form LM-2/3/4) with OLMS. Unions must make the reports available to members and permit members to examine supporting records for just cause. The reports are public information and copies are available from OLMS. Officer Elections: Union members have the right to nominate candidates for office; run for office; cast a secret ballot; and protest the conduct of an election. Officer Removal: Local union members have the right to an adequate procedure for the removal of an elected officer guilty of serious misconduct. Trusteeships: Unions may only be placed in trusteeship by a parent body for the reasons specified in the LMRDA. Prohibition Against Violence: No one may use or threaten to use force or violence to interfere with a union member in the exercise of LMRDA rights. Union Officer Responsibilities Financial Safeguards: Union officers have a duty to manage the funds and property of the union solely for the benefit of the union and its members in accordance with the union’s constitution and bylaws. Union officers or employees who embezzle or steal union funds or other assets commit a Federal crime punishable by a fine and/or imprisonment. Bonding: Union officers or employees who handle union funds or property must be bonded to provide protection against losses if their union has property and annual financial receipts which exceed $5,000. Labor Organization Reports: Union officers must file an initial information report (Form LM-1) and annual financial reports (Forms LM-2/3/4) with OLMS; and retain the records necessary to verify the reports for at least five years. Officer Reports: Union officers and employees must file reports concerning any loans and benefits received from, or certain financial interests in, employers whose employees their unions represent and businesses that deal with their unions. Officer Elections: Unions must hold elections of officers of local unions by secret ballot at least every three years; conduct regular elections in accordance with their constitution and bylaws and preserve all records for one year; mail a notice of election to every member at least 15 days prior to the election; comply with a candidate’s request to distribute campaign material; not use union funds or resources to promote any candidate (nor may employer funds or resources be used); permit candidates to have election observers; and allow candidates to inspect the union’s membership list once within 30 days prior to the election. Restrictions on Holding Office: A person convicted of certain crimes may not serve as a union officer, employee or other representative of a union for up to 13 years. Loans: A union may not have outstanding loans to any one officer or employee that in total exceed $2,000 at any time. Fines: A union may not pay the fine of any officer or employee convicted of any willful violation of the LMRDA. (Note: The above is only a summary of the LMRDA. Full text of the Act, which comprises Sections 401-531 of Title 29 of the United States Code, may be found in many public libraries, or by writing the U.S. Department of Labor, Office of Labor-Management Standards, 200 Constitution Ave., NW, Room N-5616, Washington, DC 20210, or on the internet at www.dol.gov.) SEAFARERS POLITICAL ACTIVITY DONATION — SPAD. SPAD is a separate segregated fund. Its proceeds are used to further its objects and purposes including, but not limited to, furthering the political, social and economic interests of maritime workers, the preservation and furthering of the American merchant marine with improved employment opportunities for seamen and boatmen and the advancement of trade union concepts. In connection with such objects, SPAD supports and contributes to political candidates for elective office. All contributions are voluntary. No contribution may be solicited or received because of force, job discrimination, financial reprisal, or threat of such conduct, or as a condition of membership in the union or of employment. If a contribution is made by reason of the above improper conduct, the member should notify the Seafarers International Union or SPAD by certified mail within 30 days of the contribution for investigation and appropriate action and refund, if involuntary. A member should support SPAD to protect and further his or her economic, political and social interests, and American trade union concepts. NOTIFYING THE UNION — If at any time a member feels that any of the above rights have been violated, or that he or she has been denied the constitutional right of access to union records or information, the member should immediately notify SIU President Michael Sacco at headquarters by certified mail, return receipt requested. The address is: Michael Sacco, President Seafarers International Union 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 December 2011 11/21/2011 11:15:49 AM �  Final Departures Continued from Page 18 ingim became an SIU member in 1951 in the port of New York. His earliest trip was with Waterman Steamship Corporation. Brother Fillingim was born in Alabama. He shipped in the deck department of both deep sea and inland vessels. Prior to his retirement in 1985, Brother Fillingim worked aboard a ship operated by Crescent Towing of New Orleans. He called Chickasaw, Ala., home. earliest trip to sea was aboard the Oremar. Brother Vina was a born in Spain. Before his retirement in 1985, he sailed on the Patriot. Brother Vina, a member of the deck department, settled in San Francisco. EDWIN WELLNER Pensioner Edwin Wellner, 89, died May 17. Brother Wellner was born in Nebraska. He started his SIU career in 1967. Brother Wellner was a member of the engine department. He was first employed aboard the Americo. Brother Wellner’s final trip was aboard the Santa Magdelena. He became a pensioner in 1985. Brother Wellner was a resident of Hemet, Calif. MARVIN FORBES SEYMOUR YARAS Pensioner Seymour Yaras, 67, passed away May 15. Brother Yaras joined the SIU in 1980. He originally sailed on the Santa Maria. Brother Yaras was born in Detroit and worked in the deck department. His last trip was aboard the Senator. Brother Yaras began collecting his pension in 2008. He made his home in Wilmington, N.C. INLAND Pensioner Marvin Forbes, 77, died June 21. Brother Forbes was born in North Carolina. He started his SIU career in 1962. Brother Forbes first worked with Wheeling Steel Corporation. He sailed in the engine department. Brother Forbes last shipped with McAllister Towing of Virginia. He went on pension in 1996 and made his home in Virginia Beach, Va. JOHNNIE HELMSTETTER Pensioner Johnnie Helmstetter, 55, passed away May 15. Brother Helmstetter became an SIU member in 1975. He mainly sailed aboard vessels operated by Crescent Towing of New Orleans. Brother Helmstetter was a deck department member. He started receiving his pension in 2011 and resided in Carriere, Miss. ARTURO MARTINEZ Pensioner Harry Chromiak, 85, died May 5. Brother Chromiak signed on with the union in 1961 while in the port of Philadelphia. He initially worked with P.F. Martin Company. Brother Chromiak was born in Pennsylvania. He shipped in the engine department. Brother Chromiak was last employed with Moran Towing of Philadelphia. He became a pensioner in 1988. Brother Chromiak continued to live his native state. Pensioner Arturo Martinez, 66, died June 18. Brother Martinez began shipping with the SIU in 1987. He first sailed on the Delta Queen. Brother Martinez was born in Honduras and shipped in the engine department. Before his retirement in 2007, he worked aboard the Mississippi Queen. Brother Martinez lived in Houston. TOMMY FILLINGIM OTILIO MARTINEZ HARRY CHROMIAK Pensioner Tommy Fillingim, 80, passed away April 28. Brother Fill- Pensioner Otilio Martinez, 82, passed away June 9. Brother Mar- tinez was born in Puerto Rico. He started sailing with the union in 1970. Brother Martinez worked with Crowley Puerto Rico Services. He became a pensioner in 1991. Brother Martinez was a Bronx, N.Y., resident. ROBERT MORTON Pensioner Robert Morton, 70, died June 14. Brother Morton first donned the SIU colors in 1980 in the port of Norfolk, Va. He initially shipped aboard a vessel operated by Steuart Tanker Company. Brother Morton was born in Tennessee. He last sailed with Penn Maritime Inc. Brother Morton settled in Hertford, N.C. JAMES SMITH Pensioner James Smith, 75, passed away May 18. Brother Smith signed on with the SIU in 1966, originally sailing with Maritrans. The deck department member was born Portsmouth, Ohio. Brother Smith’s final trip was on a Crowley Towing of Jacksonville vessel. He went on pension in 1998 and continued to reside in his native state. RAYMOND WESCOTT Brother Raymond Wescott, 72, died June 6. He began his seafaring career in 1967. Brother Wescott first sailed with Steuart Transportation Company. He was last employed aboard an Interstate Oil Transportation Company vessel. Brother Wescott lived in North Carolina. GREAT LAKES RUDOLPH TAHTINEN Brother Rudolph Tahtinen, 48, passed away June 26. He joined the union in 1987. Brother Tahtinen was born in Memphis, Tenn. The deck department member originally sailed with Great Lakes Associates Inc. Brother Tahtinen most recently worked aboard the American Spirit. He was a resident of Poplar, Wis. Editor’s note: The following brothers, all former members of the National Maritime Union (NMU), have passed away. NATIONAL away June 5. Brother Ramsay was a native of Jamaica. He retired in 2006. Brother Ramsay made his home in Corona, Calif. CHARLES SATERFIELD Pensioner Charles Saterfield, 87, died May 15. Brother Saterfield was born in Harriman, Tenn. He became a pensioner in 1989. Brother Saterfield settled in Beaumont, Texas. HARVEY STICKNEY MARITIME UNION OLIVER BURNS Pensioner Oliver Burns, 84, passed away April 9. Brother Burns, a native of South Carolina, became a pensioner in 2001. He called Mt. Pleasant, S.C., home. HOSIE DAVIS Pensioner Hosie Davis, 88, died April 13. Brother Davis was born in Texas. He retired in 1992 and resided in Las Vegas. Pensioner Harvey Stickney, 80, passed away March 24. Brother Stickney was an Iowa native. He started collecting his retirement compensation in 2002. Brother Stickney lived in Tacoma, Wash. JOHN WARD Pensioner John Ward, 80, died March 27. Brother Ward was born in Florida. He began receiving his pension in 1980. Brother Ward called Richmond, Va., home. JOHN YUEN FRANK GOMEZ Pensioner Frank Gomez, 78, passed away May 14. Brother Gomez was born in Mexico. He went on pension in 1995. Brother Gomez settled in Houston. FERDINAND GWARDA Pensioner Ferdinand Gwarda, 83, died April 10. The Michigan-born mariner became a pensioner in 1967. Brother Gwarda was a resident of Roseland, La. WALTER HOBDY Pensioner Walter Hobdy, 82, passed away May 14. Brother Hobdy was a native of Alabama. He started collecting his retirement compensation in 1972. Brother Hobdy lived in Houston. Pensioner John Yuen, 95, passed away May 30. Born in California, he became a pensioner in 1982. Brother Yuen was a resident of San Francisco. Editor’s note: The following NMU brothers have also passed away. Name Age DOD Carraway, Emiel 89 April 18 Coldren, Wilbur 87 May 19 Horne, Leo 87 April 3 Huffer, Dewey 71 March 22 Ibanez, Gil 96 April 9 Joseph, James 91 April 26 Lachaga, Nicholas 94 May 15 Lightbody, Chester 82 April 6 JAMES PERRIN Martinez, Fulgencio 88 Pensioner James Perrin, 84, died April 15. Brother Perrin was born in Virginia. He went on pension in 1988 and called Gloucester, Va., home. Mayo, Bernard 87 April 12 Mendoza, Toribio 70 April 12 Rey, Anthony 71 April 27 Rosario, Pablo 87 April 26 EARL RAMSAY Pensioner Earl Ramsay, 73, passed May 1 Rouby, Emile 88 May 10 Tang, Ah Ping 87 April 25 Paul Hall Center Upgrading Course Information Editor’s Note The 2012 Paul Hall Center Course Guide will be published in the January 2012 Edition of the Seafarers LOG. In additon to providing descriptions and prerequisites for courses available to stu- dents during the upcoming year, the January 2012 LOG will carry a list of courses (including dates offered) that will be available to students during the first few months of the new year. Important Notice For All Paul Hall Center Students Students who have registered for classes at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, but later discover—for whatever reason—that they cannot attend should inform the admissions department immediately so arrangements can be made to have other students take their places. December 2011 67280_LOG.indd 21 NOTICE: NMC Web Site is Vital Resource for Mariners The National Maritime Center (NMC), the licensing authority for the U.S. Coast Guard, offers a comprehensive web site covering mariner credentialing, medical guidelines and much more. The site features a wide range of applications and forms, deck- and engine-department exam information, lists of Coast Guard-approved courses and more. Seafarers are encouraged to check out the site at:http://www.uscg.mil/nmc/ Mariners may call the NMC at 1-888-IASKNMC (1-888-427-5662). Operational hours are 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. EST, Monday through Friday. (The NMC is closed for all federal holidays.) Various email forms also are available through the NMC web site. Seafarers LOG 21 11/21/2011 11:15:51 AM �Paul Hall Center Classes Tankship Familiarization DL – Two classes of Phase III unlicensed apprentices graduated from this class Nov. 4. Completing their requirements (above, in alphabetical order) were: Vince Adolph, Mike Adorno, Monasser Ali, Antonio Anderson, Michael Beard, Valerio Bellezze, Kyle Bennett, Mario Botelho, Tekeisha Brown, Vincent Burton, Autumn Cole, Marc Costley, Ryan Crowell, Ryan Dapello, Michael Dooley, Bannacke Figueroa, Bobbie Gibbs, Cindy Granter, Joel Harris, Timothy Herrernan, Joseph Hernandez, Dustin Hutchins, Orakwue Ikegwu, Slethvana Jules, Brion Lanata, David Leader, Keith Marion, Edward Martinez, Clifton Medley III, Diani Melendez, William Mercer, Ahmed Mohamed, Gary Newbegin Jr., Michael Robinson, Nicholas Santillo, Kyle Silva, Christopher Staley, Jarvis Stanley, Geoffrey Stevens, Robert Surette, Julian Swimpson and Roderick Thomas. Welding – Nine upgraders completed their requirements in this course Oct. 21. Graduating and receiving certificates (above, in alphabetical order) were: Carlos Blanco, Juan Castillo, Prentice Conley, Nathaniel Fitzpatrick, Donald Knight Jr., Manuel Lata, Ann Mensch, Zachary Ross and Brett Van Pelt. Class Instructor Buzzy Andrews is fourth from the left. Able Seaman – Sixteen individuals finished this course Oct. 28. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Brandon Albro, Matthew Baptist, Zoran Barich, Robert Bryson III, Jeremy Cooke, Joey Dursse, Melissa Gooch, Bryan Howell, Richard Lubunyz, Robert Mackey, David Marquez, Bryan Page, Justin Pierce, Kerain Reyes Velez, Jonathan Scalsky and William Smith. Tom Truitt, their instructor, is at the far right. (Note: Not all are pictured.) BAPO – The following individuals (above, in alphabetical order) completed this course Oct. 14. Graduating were: John Bielamowicz, Roberto Borras-Valencia, Sean Branch, Ryan Brown, Mashanda Carr, Keith Carswell, James Cronk, Rodney Davis, Michael Deren, William Gibson, Fabian Jefferson, Ian Jordan, Wade Jordan, Nicholas Katsampes, Justin Machuga, Enrique Medri, Thomas Miller, Andre Mitchell, Gary Timmons and Mony Williams. Class Instructor Tim Achorn is at the far right. Government Vessels – Nine upgraders finished this course Oct. 17 at the unionaffiliated Paul Hall Center. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Alonzo Belcher, Tyrone Benjamin, Jeffery Bull, Oscar Catabay, Merly Ford, Jared Latta, Sean Mitchell, Douglas McLaughlin and Peter Seifert. Mark Cates, their instructor, is at the far right. Basic & Advanced Fire Fighting – The following upgraders (above, in alphabetical order) completed this course Oct. 28: Joshua Burns, Robert Goens III, Ronald Hinely Jr., Kenneth Moore, Henry Tucker, Christopher Walker, Michael Yarbrough and Randall Zeisloft. Class Instructor Joe Zienda is at the far right. Tank Barge DL – Twenty-two upgraders finished this course Oct. 14. Those graduating (right, in alphabetical order) were: Laurent Abad, Carlos Arauz, Juan Bautista, Tyrone Benjamin, Guillermo Blanco-Nunez, Jeremy Boyd, Brandon Braam, Timothy Christopher, Mark Ciciulla, Daniel Fields, Maurice Flemings, Enchantress Johnson, Arthur Laad, Elmer Marko, Jermaine McGhee, Sonny Merriweather, Sean Mitchell, Kevin Moore, Adam Smith, Robert Taylor, Richard Wiltison and Oleg Pankratov. Brad Wheeler, their instructor, is at the far left. 22 Seafarers LOG 67280_LOG.indd 22 December 2011 11/21/2011 11:15:58 AM �  Paul Hall Center Classes BST – The following Seafarers (left, in alphabetical order) completed this course Oct. 7 at the union-affiliated Joseph Sacco Fire Fighting School in Piney Point, Md.: Laurent Abad, Carlos Arauz, Tyrone Benjamin, Guillermo Blanco-Nunez, Wilfredo Cruz, William Dowzicky, Daniel Fields, Maurice Flemings, Chris Gonyer, Mark Grzegorczyk, Matthew Hojna, Nathaniel Leary, Marlow Manueles, Marry Masa, Joseph Merriweather, Sean Mitchell, Videlio Roman and Richard Wiltison. Class Instructors Joe Zienda and Richard Tyson are at the far left and right, respectively. Important Notice Students who have registered for classes at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, but later discover - for whatever reason- that they can’t attend, should inform the admissions department immediately so arrangements can be made to have other students take their place. Vessel Security Officer – Four individuals completed the enhancement of their skils in this course Oct. 18. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Steven Corachan, Elmer Marko, Kevin Moore and Robert Taylor. Class Instructor Bradford Wheeler is at the far right. FOWT – Ten upgraders graduated from this course Nov. 11. Completing their requirements (above, in alphabetical order) were: John Ingold, Wade Jordan, David Kabasinskas, Dwain Liess, Michael Prater, Jose Rivas, Ricky Sherfy, Rahjahn Sorey, Gary Timmons and Stephen Valentine. Tim Achorn, their instructor, is at the far right in the front row. Specially Trained Ordinary Seaman – Twelve students graduated from this course Oct. 14. Completing their requirements (above, in alphabetical order) were: Christopher Allen, Jerry Aquino, John Diaz Jr., Theophilus Essien, Clifford Evans, Richard Flores, Jeffrey Gleason, Warren Gorman, Kelly Krick, Poras Prateek, Angela Porter and Kevin Sykes. Stan Beck, their instructor, is at the far right. (Note: Not all are pictured.) BST (Hawaii) The following individuals (above, in alphabetical order) graduated from this course at the Seafarers Training Facility in Barbers Point, Hawaii Oct. 8: Christopher Bauduin, Dylan Brooks, Justin Cozart, Paul DeBellis, Michael DeFranco, Shannon Fogleman, Todd Goldberg, Aneudi Gomez, Seth Gordon, Amanda Hepner, Aimie Kiang, Brandon Lagano, Talina Lawrie, Sandra O’Donnell, Christopher Reilly, Mark Tesalona, Lynda Thay, Daniel Velez, Mary Wagoner and Zachary Werner. December 2011 67280_LOG_X.indd 23 Medical Care Provider – Ten upgraders completed their training in this course Oct. 7. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Gregory Carroll, Dante DeMcCutac, Jeffrey Hawkins, Enchantress Johnson, Mark Maduro, Elmer Marko, Terrance Maxwell, Jeremy Pace, Hashiem Pittman and Mykola Smirnov. BST (Hawaii) – Eighteen individuals graduated from this course Oct. 15 in Barbers Point, Hawaii. Completing their requirements (above, in alphabetical order) were: Melisa Baldwin, Dominic Boone, Katelyn Hermeling, Kristine Johnson, Dianna Knutson, John Kucher, Mary Leahey-Oleary, Steaphen Lindsey, Krystal Luxon, Kyle Macauley, Jessica Onderwater, Earl Robinson, Ryan Rumps, Candice Savage, Dwight Warren, Andrew Welch, Lindsey Williams and Gregory Winchester. Seafarers LOG 23 11/22/2011 5:07:13 PM �Volume 73, Number 12 December 2011 SHBP Scholarship Info Page 8 Sailors deploy aboard a light amphibious resupply boat (photo at left) to check beach conditions during Exercise Brilliant Tern. In the photo above, participants use a Navy lighterage system. USNS Bob Hope Assists in Military Exercise ‘Brilliant Tern’ Displays Value, Workings of Prepositioning Ships The SIU-crewed USNS Bob Hope recently played an important role in a successful U.S. military exercise designed to test and refine certain functions of prepositioning ships. According to the U.S. Military Sealift Command, Exercise Brilliant Tern featured the USNS Bob Hope – operated by AMSEA – and took place Nov. 9-10 at Naval Base San Diego and Naval Amphibious Base Coronado. Subordinate units of U.S. Expeditionary Strike Group 3 (ESG3) conducted the drills. A communication from ESG3 pointed out that Brilliant Tern was “designed as a proof-of-concept, first-of-its-kind exercise honing core maritime prepositioning force (MPF) competencies.” Participants loaded and off-loaded “rolling stock” utilizing the Bob Hope’s lift-on/lift-off capabilities between the vessel and a sand ramp at training areas across San Diego Bay at Naval Amphibious Base Coronado. “This is the first time we have done this maritime prep- ositioning force exercise in a home port,” said Rear Adm. Gerard Hueber, commander of ESG3. “We are able to flex the entire capabilities of the Expeditionary Strike Group and Naval Beach Group teams.” The exercise required more than a week of preparations involving various materiel, including wheeled vehicles, containers and a bulk liquid transfer system. Once the drill began, participants used a Navy lighterage system, which essentially is a floating pier assembled from interchangeable modules. Items were moved from Coronado to the Bob Hope, a little less than two miles away at Naval Base San Diego. Materiel then was lifted onto the ship for transport to another training area. Upon arrival at the latter area, the equipment safely was moved to shore. ESG3 personnel described the civilian-crewed maritime prepositioning force as “an important capability that allows sustained forward operations in hot spots throughout the world. A Marine expeditionary unit (MEU) is typi- cally the first unit ashore in any amphibious operation. The MEU has the ability to sustain itself without resupply for seven days. After the initial assault force goes ashore, the larger, follow-on force will come ashore after the beach has been secured. This is where the MPF comes into play. MPF ships will offload the follow-on force’s equipment and supplies which will allow the force to remain on station without resupply for a period of up to 30 days.” There are MPF squadrons – including a number of SIUcrewed vessels – located in the western Pacific Ocean, the Indian Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea. SIU members aboard the USNS Bob Hope immediately before and during Exercise Brilliant Tern included Bosun William Henderson, ABs Anthony Antonio, Troy Ingersoll, Romeo Escalera and Joshua German, OS Jeremy Scheil, Wiper David Dunklin, Chief Steward Leslie Davis and Chief Cook Miriam Chacon. Seafarers worked with U.S. Navy personnel (photo at left) during the drill. The SIU-crewed, roll-on/roll-off ship USNS Bob Hope (above) prepares to load materiel on the West Coast for first-of-its kind military exercise. (All photos accompanying this story courtesy U.S. Navy) SIU Electrician Earns Accolades SIU member Carlos Sanchez was recently commended by Maersk Line, Limited (MLL) and a company named Digigone for his work aboard the Maersk Alabama. In a letter from Digigone written to MLL President and CEO John Reinhart, Sanchez was lauded for playing a major role in the successful installation of a closed-circuit TV system aboard the vessel by Digigone, an audio/visual company. MLL contacted Digigone to install 67280_LOG_X.indd 24 cameras aboard the vessel in order to increase security and safety for its crew members. The Maersk Alabama is best known for its hijacking by Somali pirates in 2009 and the heroic actions of its captain, crew, and the U.S. Navy that followed. The ship also has been attacked by pirates since that incident, prompting the company to call for more security. Sanchez proved to be a reliable and helpful member of the crew and is credited for allowing the process of installing and maintaining the video equipment to go smoothly. “Between August 17-23 … I had the pleasure of working with the ship’s elec- trician Carlos Sanchez who assisted me with various tasks, including liaison with the ship’s crew and the shipyard team,” said Digigone President Michael Dunleavy. “He has been my on-board eyes and ears from the other side of the world. His diligence and ‘can-do’ attitude has been critical to the successful installation and operation of the camera system.” Sanchez is just one example of the hard work, dependability, and selfless nature of SIU workers aboard vessels all over the world, according to Dunleavy. “As I have stated in previous correspondence, I have been constantly impressed with the quality of individuals you have employed as part of your team and I look forward to working with Mr. Sanchez and others like him as we continue to provide our services to Maersk Line, Limited,” said Dunleavy. Seafarers-contracted companies continue to see the value in the well-trained and professional workers that make up the SIU ranks. “Mr. Sanchez is a shining example of the qualified, dedicated, and professional U.S. Merchant Mariners who we are fortunate to have crewing our vessels,” said MLL Vice President Ed Hanley. “He is a credit to himself, his shipmates, and the SIU.” 11/22/2011 5:07:18 PM � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Seafarers Log Issues 2010-2019 Description An account of the resource Volumes LXXII-LXXXI of the Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Seafarers Log Digital Copies Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 2010-2019 Document A resource containing textual data. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre text. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource December 2011 Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Seafarers Log Description An account of the resource HEADLINES NEW ATB JOINS SIU-CREWED FLEET CROWLEY MARITIME ADDS TUG LEGACY, BARGE 750-1 USNS MEDGAR EVERS CHRISTENED ELECTION DAY VICTORY IN OHIO IS WIN FOR ALL WORKING FAMILIES REPORT SHOWS NATIONAL, ECONOMIC SECURITY BENEFITS OF JONES ACT CROWLEY MARITIME WELCOMES NEWEST ATB STATE OF THE ART LEGACY 750-1 CELEBRATED IN NEW ORLEANS NASSCO CHRISTENS USNS MEDGAR EVERS UNIONS, MTD CONDEMN MARAD REPORT SIU, OTHERS CITE ‘GIGANTIC FAILURE IN MATSUCH’S LEADERSHIP’ HORIZON HALTS TRANS-PACIFIC FSX SERVICE SIU JOBS SECURE ABOARD SBX-1 STUDY: GREAT LAKES MARITIME INDUSTRY ACCOUNTS FOR 100,000 AMERICAN JOBS ITF APPLAUDS ADMIRAL’S ANTI-PIRACY PLEDGE SEVEN BOSUNS COMPLETE RECERTIFICATION SEAFARERS FINISH PREMIER DECK DEPARTMENT COURSES AT UNION-AFFILIATED PAUL HALL CENTER IN PINEY POINT, MD LIBERTY PROMISE TRANSPORTS SPEEDY CARGO NOAA VESSEL ARRIVES AT NEW HOME PORT IN DAVISVILLE, R.I. FORMER SIU BOATMEN PUBLISHES FICTION NOVEL ON THE JOB AT SEABULK TOWING USNS BIG HORN COMPLETES SEVEN-MONTH DEPLOYMENT LABOR MOVEMENT RECORDS KEY TRIUMPH DURING OHIO ELECTION USNS BOB HOPE ASSISTS IN MILITARY EXERCISE ‘BRILLIANT TERM’ DISPLAYS VALUE, WORKINGS OF PREPOSITIONING SHIPS Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Seafarers Log Digital Copies Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 12/01/2011 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Newsprint Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context Vol. 73, No. 12 2011 Periodicals Seafarers Log http://www.seafarerslog.org/archives/files/original/514f4b8384fc6e58c302405499a7c8d5.pdf 0dd30291fc8566faad2b410d64e63f3b PDF Text Text Volume 74, Number 1 January 2012 Keystone Lands DOD Contract To Operate 3 Prepositioning Ships SIU Retains Jobs Aboard Kocak, Pless, Obregon The U.S. Department of Defense in late November announced that Keystone Prepositioning Services has been awarded operating contracts for the prepositioning vessels USNS Sgt. Matej Kocak (photo at top right), USNS Pfc. Eugene A. Obregon (below), and USNS Maj. Stephen W. Pless (below right). The award means job retention for Seafarers. Page 3. (USNS Sgt. Matej Kocak Photo by Thoralf Doehring) School Announces Course Dates This month’s edition includes the annual course guide for the SIUaffiliated Paul Hall Center and its Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship. Pages 9-16 feature course dates for the first several months of the year as well as descriptions of many of the classes available at the Piney Point, Md., facility. Handson training remains a staple of most classes, as shown in photos at left and below. Oakland Hall Hosts Holiday Gathering The annual Thanksgiving feast at the SIU hall in Oakland, Calif., lived up to its sterling tradition as hundreds of Seafarers, their families and guests gathered there on the Tuesday before the holiday. Some of the attendees are pictured in the photos above and at right. Page 7. Big Wins For Maritime Labor Page 5 10160_SEAFARERS_Jan_2012.indd 1 SHBP Scholarship Notice Page 20 SIU’s Year in Review Page 24 12/21/2011 7:36:10 AM �President’s Report Celebrating New Tanker SIU Successful in 2011 Looking back on another productive year, I’m proud to say that the SIU was very successful in 2011 when it came to our top priority: the jobs and job security of this membership. Our union welcomed three new heavy-lift ships, three tankers and three T-AKE vessels, along with two new ATBs and a new Z-drive tug. We also celebrated the christening of the Navy’s first new highspeed vessel (part of a 10-ship program), as well as an order for a new car carrier that’s supposed to be delivered this year. And, we retained jobs on 10 prepositioning ships and the SBX-1 as the Defense Department issued operating agreements to three SIU-contracted companies. I focus a lot on “jobs, jobs, jobs” because that’s really our bottom line. It’s your bottom line. Good jobs are the lifeblood of any union and any family. As I’ve said in recent years since the economy went Michael Sacco south, not every Seafarer may be able to pick and choose the exact ship or run they want, but there is no doubt you can get a job. We continue to maintain full employment despite the worst overall economic conditions in decades. We also continue delivering good contracts. Last year, more than a dozen new SIU agreements were approved, and while nobody involved in collective bargaining ever gets everything they want, our contracts should be sources of pride. Wage increases and maintaining benefits are the norm. That’s not something every union can say, and while I take no pleasure whatsoever in seeing the problems faced by our brothers and sisters elsewhere in the labor movement, I’d be wrong not to point out that we’ve more than held our own during this difficult stretch. With the strong support of the rank-and-file membership, we’ve also been able to extend agreements and remain optimistic for a better bargaining climate for ourselves and our industry. We made other gains in 2011, some of which are recapped elsewhere in this edition. But as we head into a Congressional and White House election year, I wanted to mention two other stories that already are carrying over into 2012. One is the attacks on public-sector workers, and the other involves attempts to weaken or eliminate cargo preference and the Jones Act. The details of those stories are vitally important, but for purposes of this discussion, what’s most important of all is how they’re influenced by politics. The fights over collective bargaining in the public sector are being decided by politicians. The budget battles involving cargo preference are being waged by politicians. And the regular attempts to go after the Jones Act either are initiated or decided by politicians, if not both. Fortunately, we have the power to elect – or dump – those politicians. And in an election year like this one, we have to fully engage in educating not only fellow union members but also the general public about the issues most important to working families. Then, we have to help get out the vote all across the country. Our livelihoods are at stake, and so is the future of our country. If that sounds too dramatic, remember the anti-worker, anti-union pushes in Wisconsin, Florida, New Hampshire and elsewhere in 2011. Remember the potentially devastating cuts to cargo preference that would have gotten through if it hadn’t been for the SIU and our allies. Most of all, remember the power of grassroots political action. We showed what we can do more than once in 2011, but perhaps most prominently in Ohio, where our movement united to repeal antiworker legislation. We need that kind of showing again this year for pro-worker candidates and initiatives throughout the United States. When we deliver, we’ll be on the path to celebrating a brighter future, and recapping more success stories in the years ahead. Volume 74, Number 1 January 2012 The SIU online: www.seafarers.org Officials from Maersk Line, Limited (MLL) last month presented a painting of the newly reflagged tanker Maersk Peary to SIU officials at the union’s headquarters building in Camp Springs, Md. The artwork (shown in more detail at right) depicts the vessel and its namesake, the late Rear Adm. Robert E. Peary, who was famous for his excursions to the North Pole. Pictured from left to right are MLL VP Labor Relations Ed Hanley, SIU President Michael Sacco, SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel, SIU VP Contracts George Tricker and MLL President and CEO John Reinhart. The ship was christened Sept. 30. Seafarers-Contracted Companies Garner Environmental Awards Safe Operations Recognized at Annual CSA Event SIU-contracted companies once again were honored by the Chamber of Shipping of America (CSA) during the association’s most recent annual environmental awards ceremony. As was the case the previous year, more than 20 Seafarers-contracted organizations won safety awards that were presented Nov. 17 in Washington, D.C. They were recognized for prolonged operations (at least two years) without having a mariner involved in a lost-time injury. (The average number of years operating without incident for vessels honored is nearly seven, according to the CSA.) U.S. Coast Guard Vice Admiral Brian Salerno, the agency’s deputy commandant for operations, award ceremony and congratulated honorees for the great work performed by the industry. Michael Bohlman, Horizon Lines company security officer and chairman of CSA, said, “The great record evidenced by the ships and vessels is due to the dedication of the seafar- ers working on board and the support of shore operating personnel.” Joseph J. Cox, president of CSA, stated, “These awards celebrate the dedication to environmental excellence of our seafarers and the company personnel shore-side who operate our vessels to the highest standards. In today’s world, it seems our industry only gets front-page news when spills or other environmental problems occur. It is encouraging to see how many vessels go for years achieving environmental excellence. It should be clear to the American public that we in the maritime industry take our stewardship of the marine environment very seriously.” According to the CSA, the awards are open to all owners and operators of vessels that operate on oceans or inland waterways. Among the companies honored in November were Alaska Tanker Company, Crowley Liner Services, Crowley Marine Services, Crowley Maritime Corporation, Crowley Petroleum Services, Crowley Puerto Rico Services, Crowley Technical Management, E.N. Bisso & Son, Farrell Lines, American Overseas Marine, Horizon Lines and Interocean American Shipping. Also earning safety awards were Keystone Shipping, Maersk Line, Limited, Marine Transport Lines, Moran Towing, Ocean Shipholdings, OSG Ship Management, Pasha Shipping Group, Sea Star Line, Seabulk Tankers, Totem Ocean Trailer Express, and USS Vessel Management. The Chamber of Shipping of America represents 36 U.S.-based companies “that either own, operate or charter oceangoing tankers, container ships, dry bulk vessels engaged in both the domestic and international trades and companies that maintain a commercial interest in the operation of such oceangoing vessels.” In its mission statement, the CSA says it exists in part to help “provide the voice of the U.S. maritime industry in promoting sound public policy through legislative and regulatory initiatives that include marine safety, maritime security and environmentally protective operating principles.” The Seafarers LOG (ISSN 1086-4636) is published monthly by the Seafarers International Union; Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU, AFLCIO; 5201 Auth Way; Camp Springs, MD 20746. Telephone (301) 899-0675. Periodicals postage paid at Southern Maryland 20790-9998. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to the Seafarers LOG, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. Communications Director, Jordan Biscardo; Managing Editor/Production, Jim Guthrie; Assistant Editor, Paddy Lehane; Photographer, Harry Gieske; Administrative Support, Misty Dobry. Copyright © 2012 Seafarers International Union, AGLIWD. All Rights Reserved. The Seafarers International Union engaged an environmentally friendly printer for the production of this newspaper. 2 Seafarers LOG 10160_SEAFARERS_Jan_2012.indd 2 CSA President Joseph Cox says the maritime industry collectively “takes our stewardship of the marine environment very seriously.” CSA Chairman Michael Bohlman, also an executive with Horizon Lines, credits mariners and shore-side personnel for safe operations. U.S. Coast Guard Vice Admiral Brian Salerno helps recognize the honorees. (Photos by Barry Champagne Photography) January 2012 12/21/2011 7:36:26 AM �Prepositioning ships like the USNS Kocak are an important part of America’s defense capabilities. The USNS Pless takes part in a military exercise in Florida. (Photo courtesy MSC) SIU Jobs Secure with Final Prepo Award Keystone to Operate USNS Kocak, USNS Obregon, USNS Pless A bidding process that began in 2009 ended with more good news for SIU members in late November 2011, as the Defense Department announced the award of operating contracts to Keystone Prepositioning Services for the prepositioning vessels USNS Sgt. Matej Kocak, USNS Pfc. Eugene A. Obregon and USNS Maj. Stephen W. Pless. Combined with separate awards announced earlier in 2011 – decisions that followed protests of 10 of the original awards in 2010 – the upshot for Seafarers is that the SIU retained jobs on all of the prepositioning ships that were up for bid. In addition to the Kocak, Obregon and Pless, that group includes the following ships, all operated by Maersk Line, Limited: USNS 2nd Lt. John P. Bobo, USNS Sgt. William R. Button, USNS 1st Lt. Bal- domero Lopez, USNS 1st Lt. Jack Lummus, USNS Pfc. Dewayne T. Williams, USNS LCPL Roy M. Wheat and USNS GYSGT Fred W. Stockham. It also includes the USNS 1st Lt. Harry L. Martin, operated by Patriot Contract Services. The Keystone agreement has options that would extend its overall length to five years, ending in 2016. SIU Vice President Contracts George Tricker stated, “As was pointed out when the other awards were announced, the Keystone contract definitely isn’t something that should be taken for granted. The Military Sealift Command (MSC) received more than 50 proposals to operate these ships; the fact that they’re remaining with the SIU is a big win for Seafarers.” All three vessels are classified as container and roll-on/roll-off ships. Their basic specs are identical: 821 feet long, a beam of about 106 feet, and a speed of 20 knots. MSC describes its prepositioning program as “an essential element in the U.S. military’s readiness strategy. Afloat prepositioning strategically places military equipment and supplies aboard ships located in key ocean areas to ensure rapid availability during a major theater war, a humanitarian operation or other contingency…. These ships give U.S. war fighters, who are flown into a theater of operations, the assurance that they will have what they need to quickly respond in a crisis – anywhere, any time.” Overall, the agency has 30 prepositioning ships supporting the U.S. Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps and Defense Logistics Agency. As further noted by MSC, the vessels – most of them crewed Ocean Freedom Reflags U.S. The heavy-lift ship M/V Ocean Freedom joined the SIU-contracted fleet when it reflagged under the Stars and Stripes in October. The ship, operated by Crowley for Intermarine, is an outright addition for the union. January 2012 10160_SEAFARERS_Jan_2012.indd 3 by SIU members – “have been powerful first-responders, playing a series of decisive roles in support to the nation’s combat forces. These ships delivered the first sizable amounts of armored equipment to deployed U.S. forces during both the Persian Gulf War in the early 1990s and Operation Restore Hope in Somalia from 1992 to 1993. Later, the ships demonstrated their value again as they provided extensive support for Operation Enduring Freedom beginning in 2001 and Operation Iraqi Freedom beginning in 2003. In 2010, MSC prepositioning ships were among the first vessels to arrive off the coast of Port-auPrince, Haiti, carrying humanitarian supplies for the international earthquake relief effort. Today, afloat prepositioning continues to give deployed U.S. war fighters an edge, ensuring fast delivery ashore of the earliest arriving equipment and supplies.” USNS Cesar Chavez, Final T-AKE Ship, Scheduled for 4th-Quarter 2012 Delivery The last new-build in the U.S. Navy’s Lewis and Clark-class of vessels – the USNS Cesar Chavez – is scheduled for delivery in the fourth quarter of this year, according to the Military Sealift Command (MSC). Abbreviated as T-AKE 14, the Chavez is being built at the General Dynamics NASSCO shipyard in San Diego (a union-contracted facility). Like the others in its class, the dry cargo/ammunition ship will be crewed in the unlicensed positions by members of the SIU Government Services Division. It is named in memory of American labor leader Cesar Chavez, who co-founded the National Farm Workers Association, which later became the United Farm Workers. Chavez served in the Navy from 19441946. The USNS Cesar Chavez is scheduled to support combat logistics force missions, assisting the Navy in maintaining a worldwide forward presence by delivering ammunition, food, fuel and other dry cargo to U.S. and allied ships at sea. Each ship in the class is 689 feet long, has a beam of 105 feet and can sail at 20 knots. Besides the Chavez, the class consists of the USNS Lewis and Clark, USNS Sacagawea, USNS Alan Shepard, USNS Richard E. Byrd, USNS Robert E. Peary, USNS Amelia Earhart, USNS Carl Brashear, USNS Wally Schirra, USNS Matthew Perry, USNS Charles Drew, USNS Washington Chambers, USNS William Mclean and USNS Medgar Evers. The 500-ton bow section of the USNS Cesar Chavez is hoisted in late October 2011. (Photo courtesy NASSCO) Seafarers LOG 3 12/21/2011 7:36:29 AM �House Approves Pro-Maritime Bills The U.S. House of Representatives late last year passed two pieces of legislation that would affect the American maritime industry. At press time, both bills still were awaiting Senate action. First, the House approved Coast Guard authorization legislation viewed as a win for maritime labor, on several fronts. The bill includes segments covering the merchant mariner medical program, piracy and the Jones Act. The Jones Act language, as previously reported, would establish procedures requiring the Maritime Administration to give a fair opportunity to Jones Act-qualified vessels to meet shipping requirements before issuing any waivers of the law. U.S. Reps. Elijah Cummings (D-Md.) and Jeff Landry (R-La.) proposed the Jones Act content. “In this time of economic turmoil, we owe it to the people we represent to make full use of American maritime capabilities by adhering firmly to the Jones Act,” Cummings stated. “Every single ship that can carry cargo under the Jones Act should be full and every American mariner should be able to work a fair day’s work for a fair paycheck.” A few weeks later, in early December, the House approved H.R. 2360, the Providing for Our Workforce and Energy Resources Act (POWER Act). Introduced by Rep. Landry, the legislation clarifies that offshore wind farms must comply with the same laws as offshore oil and gas production. “The POWER Act makes an important clarification to ensure wind energy follows the same playbook that has made U.S. offshore oil and gas production such a nationally important, job-creating field,” Landry said. “The Bills Aim to Ease TWIC Renewal POWER Act provides important certainty so investors can confidently support offshore renewable projects and create new jobs for American offshore workers. I applaud all who joined me in voting for final passage of the bill.” Matthew Paxton, president of the Shipbuilders Council of America, said that if the bill is signed into law, “American workers will have the opportunity to build and operate a new generation of American vessels and offshore renewable energy installations, putting people to work at a time when our economy needs it the most.” The Congressional Information Bureau noted, “As the offshore wind and solar industry continues to grow, so too will the need for qualified mariners to operate the vessels needed to install, service and maintain the wind turbines and other equipment. If signed into law, the POWER Act will help ensure that those jobs go to American workers.” With Boatmen on the West Coast TSA Announces Some Cards are Improperly Encoded Numerous issues involving the Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) have caught the attention of maritime labor this winter, including Congressional bills, federal regulations that eventually may be implemented, and problems with several thousand TWIC cards that may present potential difficulties for Seafarers. U.S. Sen. Kelly Ayotte (R-N.H.) introduced a bill that aims to streamline the process for transportation workers, including mariners, who are looking to enroll, activate or renew their TWICs. The bill (S. 1966) attempts to address the expense in both time and money that goes towards visiting designated enrollment centers more than once. “It is the sense of Congress that to avoid further imposing unnecessary and costly regulatory burdens on United States workers and businesses, it is urgent that the TWIC application process be reformed before the end of 2012, when many of the more than 1 million current TWIC holders will be required to renew their Transportation Worker Identification Credential,” stated the bill’s text. A similar bill was introduced in the House of Representatives by Rep. Steve Scalise (R- La.). H.R. 3173, too, called for the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to eliminate the need for transportation workers to make more than one trip to a TWICissuing facility. These bills are just the latest in a string of legislation that has been introduced to try and make sure that this year’s mass renewal of TWIC cards runs more smoothly than many anticipate. For instance, a bill introduced in the House of Representatives early last year is getting renewed interest by its Congressional sponsors and by the maritime community. H.R. 1105, or the Transitioning With an Improved Credential (TWIC) Program Act, introduced by longtime maritime industry friend Rep. Bennie Thompson (D- Miss.), aims to push back the anticipated 2012 deadline for the renewal of TWIC cards. Thompson and his co-sponsors argue that because of the lack of biometric readers at most ports, the requirement for renewal beginning this year is im- practical and unfair. “Hard-working transportation workers shouldn’t have to go through the time and expense of renewing their TWICs if the DHS doesn’t even have a finalized plan for deployment of the readers,” said Thompson in a statement. “My bill will address this unique problem by delaying the necessary renewal of these expensive cards until DHS issues the final reader rule or December 31, 2014, whichever is earlier. I look forward to working with DHS to ensure that the TWIC readers are deployed as soon as possible.” In other TWIC news, Seafarers should be aware of a recent problem that affects an estimated 26,000 TWIC card holders. According to the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), due to a computer error, some TWICs have a shortened and invalid code that cannot be read by the biometric readers at some ports. The agency will issue no-cost replacement cards, and the credentials with the truncated codes still are valid. According to the TSA, “The TWICs that have this problem can be identified by the eight-digit Agency Serial Number (ASN) that is printed on the back of the TWIC. The ASN is on the bottom left side of the back of the card…. If you currently do not use your TWIC with a card reader, then you do not need to get a replacement right away—you will be able to get one later. If you currently need to use your TWIC with a card reader and you are experiencing problems, you should get a replacement TWIC as soon as possible.” Detailed information on this issue is available on the TWIC home page at www.tsa.gov/twic. Finally, the U.S. Coast Guard’s Advance Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (ANPRM) on revisions to TWIC requirements has cleared a regulatory review by the Office of Management and Budget (OMB). The proposal eventually may eliminate the requirement for American mariners to have a TWIC if they only work on ships that don’t have a Vessel Security Plan pursuant to the Maritime Transportation Security Act of 2002. SIU VP Contracts George Tricker (center) and Wilmington Port Agent Jeff Turkus (behind the camera) recently visited with SIU boatmen from Brusco Tug & Barge in Port Hueneme, Calif. Pictured from left are Deckhand George Gonzales, Tricker and Deckhand Alvaro Lopez. Members at Brusco approved a new, five-year contract in August. The company has employed SIU boatmen since the late 1980s. Great Lakes Shipyards Welcome Busy Winter The Lake Carriers’ Association (LCA) in mid-December reported that major American-flag operators on the Great Lakes will invest more than $75 million combined in their respective vessels during layup “so the fleet will be ready to replenish stockpiles of iron ore, coal, cement, salt and limestone when shipping resumes next March.” The LCA represents 17 companies that operate 56 U.S.-flag vessels, many of them crewed by SIU members. In announcing a wide range of scheduled shipyard modifications, the association pointed out that more than 1,200 boilermakers, welders, electricians and other skilled craftsmen will handle the work as freighters lay up between late December and mid-January. “The work scheduled for this winter is as varied as the cargos the fleet carries,” the LCA said in a news release. The major shipyards on the Lakes are located in Sturgeon Bay and Superior, Wis.; Erie, Pa.; and Toledo, Ohio. Smaller repair operations are located in Cleveland, Buffalo and several cities in Michigan. According to the LCA, it is estimated that a vessel generates $800,000 in economic activity in the community in which it spends the winter. Machinists Ink Four-Year Labor Agreement with Boeing The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) is celebrating a victory for its members after signing a four-year agreement with aerospace manufacturing company Boeing. In addition, both the union and the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) have agreed to drop a complaint against the company. The issue at hand was alleged retaliatory practices by Boeing against the IAM and its members in Washington State. Earlier this year, Boeing announced that it would be building a new plant and constructing its state-of-theart 787 Dreamliner plane in so-called “right-to-work” South Carolina. While the company claimed that it was simply moving operations to save money and create jobs, the IAM alleged that it was an effort to bust the union and punish its members for standing up for fair wages, benefits, and job security. The union alleges that Boeing chose South Carolina specifically because union workers in Washington State had organized strikes and work stoppages in the past to protest poor working conditions and labor violations. The NLRB, a body charged with solving labor disputes, ultimately filed a lawsuit against 4 Seafarers LOG 10160_SEAFARERS_Jan_2012.indd 4 Boeing, agreeing with the IAM’s claims that the company violated labor laws and moved operations in an act of retribution. The dispute led to a standoff, with the union and the company both turning to the media to argue their respective cases. Members of Congress and even President Obama voiced their opinions on the matter and both the union and the company were preparing for a protracted battle. However, long and difficult negotiations led to a breakthrough that has both the company and the union satisfied. The arrangement, reached in early December, has resulted in Boeing agreeing to manufacture its newest plane, the 737 MAX, in Washington State in an IAM shop. The deal, which will pump hundreds of millions of dollars into the state economy, also called for the IAM to withdraw its complaint against the company. In addition, the union also recommended that the NLRB recall its suit against Boeing. The agreement leaves the Dreamliner plant at its originally proposed location. While the long-term agreement is seen by the labor movement as a victory in itself, the actions taken by the NLRB are considered to be a major step in the right direction for America’s workers, according to union officials. IAM Vice President Rich Michalski congratulated the board for its courage in standing up to the powerful interests of Boeing. “Despite an unprecedented level of harassment, intimidation, and partisan political pressure, the NLRB and its officers measured up to the highest standard of grace under pressure,” said Michalski. “They deserve the thanks and admiration of every law-abiding American.” He added, “I’m confident we’ve turned an important corner in the 76-year relationship between Boeing and the IAM. Both sides are committed to maintaining the high levels of communication and cooperation that produced this agreement.” In a statement from Boeing headquarters officials, the company said that the agreement “reflects a new era of working together between the company and its IAMrepresented employees.” January 2012 12/21/2011 7:36:30 AM �U.S.-Flag Industry Secures Two Key Wins MSP, Food-for-Peace Programs Receive Funding The SIU and other U.S. maritime unions helped secure a major victory in mid-November when both the House of Representatives and the Senate approved, and President Obama signed, legislation that includes Fiscal Year 2012 funding for two bedrock programs of the Americanflag maritime industry: the Maritime Security Program (MSP), and the PL-480 Food for Peace program. For the MSP, the full amount of $174 million requested by the Obama administration was provided for in the legislation. That $174 million will be combined with $12 million in MSP funds leftover from prior years, ensuring that the program is funded at the fully authorized level of $186 million next fiscal year. Congress also approved $1.46 billion for the food-aid program, which is roughly 50 percent more than the amount originally proposed by the House of Representatives. Even with the increase from the original proposal, it is still significantly less funding than in prior years. As previously reported, the SIU and the rest of maritime labor have been fighting efforts to end the program, divert funds to other foreign aid programs, and drastically reduce the funding. Efforts to protect the program succeeded, and the funding will be applied to ship agricultural commodities overseas on American-flag commercial ships, many of them crewed by SIU members. As noted in a report presented at all of the SIU’s December membership meetings, given the pressure on the federal government to reduce spending in all areas, these victories would not have been possible without political action by the SIU and other unions, including support from School Comments on Proposed Inspections of Towing Vessels The SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education and its Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship last month submitted comments on a U.S. Coast Guard notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) pertaining to the inland maritime sector. The NPRM itself is titled “Inspection of Towing Vessels,” and it was published several months ago. The comment period ended December 9. In the NPRM, the agency “proposes to establish safety regulations governing the inspection of, and standards and safety management systems for, towing vessels. The proposal includes provisions covering specific electrical and machinery requirements for new and existing towing vessels, the use and approval of third-party auditors and surveyors, and procedures for obtaining Certificates of Inspection.” According to the Coast Guard, the purpose of the proposed rulemaking “is to promote safer work practices and reduce casualties on towing vessels by requiring that towing vessels adhere to prescribed safety standards and safety management systems or to an alternative, annual Coast Guard inspection regime.” The NPRM went on to point out that although the Coast Guard didn’t make a specific proposal, the agency also is seeking input “on potential requirements for hours of service or crew endurance management for mariners aboard towing vessels. The Coast Guard would later request public comment on specific hours of service or crew endurance management regulatory text if it seeks to implement such requirements.” The Paul Hall Center commented on four aspects of the proposal. First, the school indicated its backing for the development of a towing vessel inspection program based upon a safety management system. “The wording should permit the U.S. Coast Guard to inves- January 2012 10160_SEAFARERS_Jan_2012.indd 5 tigate, develop and prescribe an inspection regime for towing vessels that is unique to towing vessels and within a safety management system,” the school noted. “An inspection system based on a safety management system would or should more easily permit existing vessels to become compliant. Many of our companies have implemented safety management systems (SMS) covering training, operations, and engineering that are tailored to their particular service. These SMS programs have worked for a long time, and the USCG should entertain a grandfathering provision to these programs. We support compliance with a safety management system inspection regime for all towing vessels.” Additionally, the Paul Hall Center said it supports the concept of additional training for increased safety on towing vessels, in part because the NPRM would establish regulations covering such training and drills. Next, the school said that crew endurance management (CEMS) systems training as well as understanding the minimum work and rest hours would benefit mariners. “STCW 2010 amendments limited work periods and increased periods of rest for seafarers working on board seagoing ships,” the school pointed out. “Applying the same standards to towing vessels may be a challenge because of the watch system and number of crew available to stand watches. Nevertheless, [the school] supports additional training for crew members in the area of crew member fatigue and work and rest periods. We support the notion that programs could be put in place aboard all types of towing vessels that would improve operational safety. We regret that this statute does not apply to the offshore oil industry.” Finally, the school urged the agency to clarify the terms “redundant” and “independent” in regard to engineering systems aboard towing vessels. rank-and-file members. Food Aid programs like PL-480 that support the maritime industry are tied directly to merchant mariners and American-flag shipping through cargo preference laws. Cargo preference is a key federal support mechanism for the maritime industry, ensuring that government cargo is moved on American ships with American crews. It’s also vital to U.S. economic and national security, in part because it helps ensure that American ships have the cargo they need to support American jobs in peacetime. The various cargo preference laws have created and maintained thousands of middle-class jobs for American workers for more than 100 years. The PL-480 program is one of the oldest and most widely supported foreign aid programs. Since 1954, it has provided needed food to millions of starving people in Africa and across the globe. Commodi- ties are purchased from American farmers and sent overseas on U.S.-flag ships with American crews, where the grain is distributed to needy people. In short, PL480 provides jobs at home and goodwill abroad. The MSP helps maintain up to 60 civilian-crewed, American-flag ships that are available to the U.S. armed forces whenever needed. The companies participating in the program offer not only their respective ships but also their logistics management services, terminal facilities and other related infrastructure. Signed into law in 1996, the MSP consistently has proven its worth, including during the conflicts in Afghanistan and Iraq. The program has gotten praise from the military and Congress; more than one military leader has stated it would cost the country billions of dollars to replicate the MSP’s capabilities. Getting Out the Vote in Houston Houston-area Seafarers volunteered to help get out the vote on Election Day 2011, Nov. 11. As SIU VP Gulf Coast Dean Corgey noted, “In off-year elections the labor vote is pivotal, and the efforts of our rankand-file volunteers is invaluable. Many thanks to the membership for making it happen!” Pictured from left in the larger group photo above are AB Joe Zavala, Safety Director Brian Kinard, Houston Mayor Annise Parker, Corgey, QEP Edwin Feliciano, Port Agent Mike Russo and QMED Juan Castillo. The other photo at left includes (from left) SA Edward Baker, SA Diana House and Chief Cook Alfrancis Bauzon, who backed winning city council candidate Ellen Cohen. Revamped UA Application Available on SIU Website A freshly updated version of the application for the Paul Hall Center’s unlicensed apprentice program is available on the SIU website, www.seafarers.org The application – which only is available online – has been updated and expanded in part to reflect the Manila amendments to the STCW Convention. Both the application and detailed information and instructions (appearing on a separate page) may be accessed via the “Jobs” and “Paul Hall Center” tabs on the site. Similarly, a brief description of the program (“Entry Program”) is available in both sections. The unlicensed apprentice (UA) program is a main feature of the Paul Hall Center and its Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship. It begins with 12 weeks at the school in Piney Point, Md., and is followed by 90 days aboard a U.S.-flag vessel, during which the student rotates through each of the three shipboard departments. Additional training then takes place back in Piney Point. Visit the website for more information. The UA application is exclusively available online at www.seafarers.org. Seafarers LOG 5 12/27/2011 6:47:26 AM �Some SIU-crewed ships sail through potentially dangerous waters to deliver cargo, while others – like the USNS Laramie (right) – help combat piracy by assisting military vessels. In this midNovember photo taken in the Arabian Sea, the Laramie conducts an underway replenishment with the guided-missile destroyer USS Truxtun, which is deployed to a multi-national counter-piracy UN Security Council members adopt a resolution extending authorizations to “use operation. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Tony D. Curtis) all necessary means” to combat piracy off the coast of Somalia. Security Council Calls for Global Response to Piracy The United Nations Security Council recently adopted a resolution calling for a thorough international response to piracy and armed robbery off the coast of Somalia. Among other things, the council, meeting in New York in late November, declared that flag states must assume responsibility in this fight. It also extended for at least 12 months its prior authorizations granting to member states and regional organizations cooperating with the government of Somalia to “use all necessary means” to combat piracy off the coast of that country. In a unanimously adopted resolution, the council recognized the need to investigate and prosecute not only suspects arrested at sea, but all those who facilitate piracy, including key figures of criminal networks involved in organizing, financing and benefiting from piracy. The council renewed its calls on states and regional organizations that have the capacity to take part in the fight against piracy to do so, in accordance with the resolution and international law. Additionally, the UN urged deployment of naval ships, arms and military aircraft, and seizures of boats, vessels and any other equipment used to carry out acts of maritime piracy, “or for which there is reasonable ground to suspect that they will be put to such use.” The 15-member United Nations body encouraged member states to continue to cooperate with Somalia’s Transitional Federal Government (TFG) in the fight against piracy, and took note of the TFG’s primary role in combating piracy. The council also extended for another year the authorization under which member states and regional organizations coop- erating with the TFG may enter Somalia’s territorial waters to suppress piracy and use all necessary means to stop the crime. It urged member states to assist Somalia, at the request of the TFG and with notification to the UN secretary-general, to strengthen its capacity to bring to justice those using the country to plan, facilitate, or engage in acts of piracy and armed robbery at sea, stressing that any such measures must be consistent with international human rights law. Moreover, the council reiterated its decision to continue considering the establishment of specialized anti-piracy courts in Somalia and other states in the region with international participation and support. States should also criminalize piracy under their domestic law and consider the prosecution of suspects, the imprisonment USNS Safeguard Assists in Japan of convicted pirates or facilitators and financiers of acts of piracy, the council stated in its resolution. The council urged all States “to take appropriate actions under their existing domestic law to prevent the illicit financing of acts of piracy and the laundering of its proceeds.” Finally, the resolution also calls upon States, in cooperation with the international police organization Interpol, and the European law enforcement agency Europol, to further investigate international criminal networks involved in piracy off the coast of Somalia, including those responsible for illicit financing and facilitation. Editor’s note: See the November 28 entry in the News section of www.seafarers.org for a related press release and a link to the full resolution. Steward Promotes Fitness, Nutrition SIU CIVMARS Help Welcome Locals Aboard for Tours Members of the SIU Government Services Division along with fellow crew members and U.S. Navy Sailors aboard the USNS Safeguard recently departed Onagawa after spending a few days in the tsunami-stricken Japanese city. In response to an invitation from city officials, the Safeguard became the first U.S. ship to visit the area since the conclusion of Operation Tomodachi, a relief mission. While in port, the vessel welcomed almost 400 local schoolchildren aboard for tours, and also delivered donated clothing and blankets to a local school, the U.S. Military Sealift Command reported. Crew members said they were honored by the invitation and enjoyed interacting with the local populace, according to the agency. “What got me were the smiles on the children’s faces,” said AB Frank Watkins. “Seeing them so excited about the ship makes you feel good inside. They’ve been through a lot this past year. I hope they enjoyed the visit.” Onagawa was greatly impacted by an earthquake last March that triggered a massive tsunami which devastated the local area. In part because the city is still struggling to recover, the crew wanted the children’s visit to be special. While on board, guests had the opportunity to see diving and shipboard firefighting displays, take a tour through the salvage ship, and enjoy a barbecue on the pier. The Safeguard previously spent time in Hachinohe, Japan, earlier last year, and in the days immediately following the tsunami, helped clear its harbor for ship travel. Visitors to the Seafarers-crewed USNS Safeguard check out a demonstration involving shipboard firefighting gear. (U.S. Navy photo by Senior Chief Mass Communication Specialist Daniel Sanford) 6 Seafarers LOG 10160_SEAFARERS_Jan_2012.indd 6 Fellow members of the galley gang aboard the prepositioning ship USNS Fred Stockham recently commended the efforts of Chief Steward Emmanuel Zephyr, who’s gone out of his way to promote good health, fitness and nutrition. Chief Cook Esper Jordan, SA Walter Barnes, GVA Jesus Sanchez and “Big Al” said in a note to the LOG that (among other steps) Zephyr maintains a large bulletin board in the passageway next to the galley featuring various articles and other resources. Several Seafarers say they have followed tips gleaned from the board and are seeing positive results. Pictured in front of the bulletin board are QMED Alan Nelson (photo at right) and Jordan (left) and Sanchez (photo above). January 2012 12/21/2011 7:36:36 AM �U.S. Rep. John Garamendi (D-Calif.), SIU VP West Coast Nick Marrone, SIU Asst. VP Nick Celona U.S. Rep. George Miller (D-Calif.) U.S. Rep. Barbara Lee (D-Calif.) Kamala Harris Calif. Attorney General Oakland Hall Hosts Traditional Gathering Seafarers, Guests Assemble for 21st Annual Thanksgiving Feast In Oakland, Calif., the SIU’s yearly Thanksgiving gathering has become the kickoff to the holiday season, and the 2011 event didn’t disappoint. Taking place in its usual time slot – the Tuesday before the actual holiday – the most recent assembly at the SIU hall on Seventh Street attracted 300 or so guests, none of whom left hungry. This was the twenty-first annual SIU Thanksgiving feast in the Oakland-San Francisco region. As has become the norm, guests included an array of members of Congress, state and local politicians, shipping company representatives, members and officials from other unions – and, of course, Seafarers and their families. SIU Assistant Vice President Nick Celona said the union particularly was pleased to welcome the U.S. Coast Guard Dis- trict 11 Color Guard as well as members from the California Army National Guard. “I probably say this every year, but our event honestly does get better and better each year,” said Celona, who once again worked closely with the committee that organized the gathering, which featured a traditional Thanksgiving menu. “The positive feedback from everyone is just tremendous, and it goes without saying that this kind of event simply wouldn’t be possible without the people who volunteer to help run it, first and foremost our rank-andfile members.” He added that Alioto’s Restaurant on Fisherman’s Wharf once again helped make the event successful, as did union caterer Beli Deli. Special thanks to Charles Faruggio for providing the photos on this page. SIU officials flank U.S. Rep. Jerry McNerney (D-Calif.) VP Nick Marrone, San Francisco Fire Chief Joanne Hayes-White, Asst. VP Nick Celona UA Asst. Business Manager Larry Mazzola Jr., UA Business Agent R.J. Ferrari, Superior Court Judge Ernest Goldsmith Army Corps of Engineers Contract Chief-South Pacific Division James Bartha, Army National Guard SGT Mark Palabrica, Army National Guard SGT William Orecchia John O’Rourke IBEW Local 6 Business Manager SF Fire Fighters Local 798 Pres. Tom O’Connor, Stagehands Local 16 Bus. Agent F.X. Crowley MEBA Patrolman Patrick Anderson, United Labor Bank VP Ricka Lucia, MEBA Exec. VP Dave Nolan, Retired Chief Steward Pete Ciddio, Carpenters Local 2236 Sec.-Treas. Ruben Lopez, VP Nick Marrone, Sheet Metal Workers Local 104 Sec.-Treas. Joe Maraccini, Asst. VP Nick Celona, retired Carpenters Local 2236 Sec.-Treas. Dan Huff, United Labor Bank VP Terry Curley Bosun Jimmy Taranto (far right in photo at right) carries the U.S. Merchant Marine flag as the U.S. Coast Guard 11th District Color Guard presents the colors. January 2012 10160_SEAFARERS_Jan_2012.indd 7 Seafarers LOG 7 12/21/2011 7:36:41 AM �Inquiring Seafarer Seafarers International Union Directory Michael Sacco, President Augustin Tellez, Executive Vice President David Heindel, Secretary-Treasurer George Tricker, Vice President Contracts Tom Orzechowski, Vice President Lakes and Inland Waters Dean Corgey, Vice President Gulf Coast Nicholas J. Marrone, Vice President West Coast Joseph T. Soresi, Vice President Atlantic Coast Kermett Mangram, Vice President Government Services HEADQUARTERS 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746 (301) 899-0675 ALGONAC 520 St. Clair River Dr., Algonac, MI 48001 (810) 794-4988 ANCHORAGE 721 Sesame St., #1C, Anchorage, AK 99503 (907) 561-4988 BALTIMORE 2315 Essex St., Baltimore, MD 21224 (410) 327-4900 GUAM P.O. Box 3328, Hagatna, Guam 96932 Cliffline Office Ctr. Bldg., Suite 103B 422 West O’Brien Dr., Hagatna, Guam 96910 (671) 477-1350 HONOLULU 606 Kalihi St., Honolulu, HI 96819 (808) 845-5222 HOUSTON 1221 Pierce St., Houston, TX 77002 (713) 659-5152 JACKSONVILLE 5100 Belfort Rd., Jacksonville, FL 32256 (904) 281-2622 JOLIET 10 East Clinton St., Joliet, IL 60432 (815) 723-8002 MOBILE 1640 Dauphin Island Pkwy, Mobile, AL 36605 (251) 478-0916 NEW ORLEANS 3911 Lapalco Blvd., Harvey, LA 70058 (504) 328-7545 Editor’s note: This month’s question was answered by the most recent class of recertified bosuns at the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center, located in Piney Point, Md. Question: Why did you enter the maritime industry, and why have you stayed with it? Jeffery Eckhart Recertified Bosun I started in the late 1970s, when the economy was bad, and I’ve stayed with it ever since. It’s been very good for my family and me. The job security is great along with the benefits. Mickey Earhart Recertified Bosun Both of my brothers were sailing with SIU and said, “Come on, brother. Come and sail with us.” I did, and I stayed with it because I fell in love with the sea – once I got that salt air in my blood, it was all over. The places I’ve been are great…. Where else can you get paid what we get paid and see all the things that we see? The SIU has been very good to my family. Greg Cudal Recertified Bosun At the time, I was dreaming of travelling, seeing different places and meeting different people. Those dreams came true when I joined the merc h a n t marine. I travelled everywhere, and other things hold me to stay sailing: decent pay, good benefits, and working on different ships where I’ve learned a lot. And of course, straight two months’ time off – you just can’t beat that. Hanapiah Ismail Recertified Bosun To see the world. Working on a ship gives you a chance to visit places that many people only dream about or talk about, like beautiful tropical islands and some of the world’s greatest tourist destinations. The union has been important in my life because of the great benefits my family and I have received. Rafael Franco Recertified Bosun After leaving the U.S. Navy in 1988, I went back to Puerto Rico. Looking for a regular job on shore, it was very hard. Somebody talked to me about the SIU, and after learning all about it and all of the programs they provide, I joined. It was the best decision I have ever made, and as you can see, I’m still here. Randell Porter Recertified Bosun My father and uncles all went to sea. I saw a great way to see the world and have steady employment. I’ve been in this union for 21 years; the SIU has been good to me and my family. I stayed with the union this long so I could reach my goal of being a recertified bosun, provide for my family and one day retire from the SIU a proud Seafarer. Anecito Limboy Recertified Bosun When I was a kid, I wanted to be a merchant mariner because I wanted to travel and see the world for free, while making money. I joined the SIU in 1993 in Houston because I had a friend n a m e d Bill Gray who was also an SIU member. I’ve stayed in this industry because I love the work and I make good money. They money allows me to support all of my family’s needs. Pic-From-The-Past NEW YORK 635 Fourth Ave., Brooklyn, NY 11232 (718) 499-6600 Government Services Division: (718) 499-6600 NORFOLK 115 Third St., Norfolk, VA 23510 (757) 622-1892 OAKLAND 1121 7th St., Oakland, CA 94607 (510) 444-2360 PHILADELPHIA 2604 S. 4 St., Philadelphia, PA 19148 (215) 336-3818 PINEY POINT P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674 (301) 994-0010 PORT EVERGLADES 1221 S. Andrews Ave., Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33316 (954) 522-7984 SANTURCE 1057 Fernandez Juncos Ave., Stop 16 Santurce, PR 00907 (787) 721-4033 ST. LOUIS/ALTON 4581 Gravois Ave., St. Louis, MO 63116 (314) 752-6500 TACOMA 3411 South Union Ave., Tacoma, WA 98409 (253) 272-7774 WILMINGTON 510 N. Broad Ave., Wilmington, CA 90744 (310) 549-4000 Our latest foray into the LOG photo files uncovered this image from October 1954. Here’s the caption that ran with it: “Operation Potatoes” was what the skipper logged this unscheduled activity aboard the Steel Fabricator (Isthmian) as she returned recently from a Far East run. Here (l-r) SIU crewmen “Red” Windell, Leo Loony and Carl Jarvis prepare to toss the spuds, which were rotten, overboard. The potatoes had been transferred to the Fabricator from the Steel Surveyor, which picked them up in Egypt for delivery to Colombo. Seafarer Lars Nielsen snapped the photo and sent it to the LOG. If anyone has a vintage union-related photograph he or she would like to share with other Seafarers LOG readers, please send it to the Seafarers LOG, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. Photographs will be returned, if so requested. High-resolution digital images may be sent to webmaster@seafarers.org 8 Seafarers LOG 10160_SEAFARERS_Jan_2012.indd 8 January 2012 12/21/2011 7:36:46 AM �Paul Hall Center School Supplement This course guide for the Paul Hall Center and its Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship is intended as a convenience to SIU members. Please keep it for reference. Prerequisites for all upgrading courses at the Paul Hall Center include being at least 18 years old, holding a valid U.S. Merchant Mariner Credential/Document and TWIC, passing a physical exam, and English language proficiency. Introduction The SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, which opened in 1967, is the largest training facility for deep sea merchant seafarers and inland waterways boatmen in the United States. The school has developed a pioneering approach to education that has successfully integrated vocational training, academic enrichment and trade union responsibility. Named after Paul Hall (1915-1980), an outstanding past president of the SIU, the center is the product of a unique cooperative effort by the Seafarers International Union and the management of privately owned American-flag deep sea ships and inland tugs and towboats. The campus is located on 60 acres in picturesque Piney Point, Md., at the confluence of the Potomac River and St. George’s Creek. It features state-of-the-art equipment, knowledgeable instructors and helpful staff members. Tens of thousands of rated and licensed seamen have completed upgrading classes at the training center. Ad- ditionally, more than 22,700 men and women from every state in the U.S., Puerto Rico and several U.S. territories have graduated from the trainee program for those just beginning their maritime careers. The school is committed to providing the nation’s maritime industry with skilled, physically fit and responsible deep sea seafarers and inland waterways boatmen. The school believes that the men and women who choose careers as professional seafarers or boatmen must be provided with the knowledge and skills to keep pace with technological advances within their industries. As a result, the school has developed a total program for professional advancement as a boatman or deep sea mariner. The Paul Hall Center—which includes, among other components, the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship and the Joseph Sacco Fire Fighting and Safety School—offers more than 70 U.S. Coast Guardapproved classes, many of which emphasize hands-on training. Starting in 2008, the school began offering online “distance learning” classes that are taken via the internet. An overview of many of the courses available at Piney Point is contained in this eight-page section and also appears on the website www.seafarers. org, in the Paul Hall Center section. Students should note that courses and class dates may change due to the manpower needs of SIU-contracted companies. Therefore, Seafarers should check the latest issue of the Seafarers LOG for the most up-to-date class listings. Schedules also are available on the website, and additional course descriptions may be posted, too. The basic eligibility for SIU members who want to upgrade at Piney Point includes a valid clinic card, a TWIC, 125 days’ sea time in the previous year, one day of sea time in the last six months prior to the date the class starts, a copy of their z-card (front and back), or a merchant mariner credential, a copy of the identification page of their union book, plus any other course-specific requirements. If the course mandates a U.S. Coast Guard test to acquire the endorsement, then the upgrader must meet all Coast Guard requirements prior to taking the class. Some courses have other specific requirements which are printed in italic. For more information about the Paul Hall Center or any of its courses, contact the Admissions Office, Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674-0075, or call (301) 9940010. Paul Hall Center Course Guide for 2012 Deck Department Advanced Meteorology (SHLSOS-18) This 40-hour Advanced Meteorology course will satisfy the Advanced Meteorology training requirements for a certificate as a Master or Chief Mate of 500 GT or more. This course addresses the following assessments; M-6-1A, M-6-1B from Table A-II/2 of STCW Code. Prerequisite: Meet eligibility requirements for Management level license Advanced Navigation (SHLSOS-19) The 80-hour Advanced Navigation course is intended for mariners sailing or wishing to sail aboard U.S. flagged ships under contract to Seafarers International Union and who meet all of the requirements to enroll in the course. It meets the mandatory minimum requirements for knowledge, understanding, and proficiency in Table A-II/2 of STCW 1995 for the function, “Navigation at the Management Level.” This functional element provides detailed knowledge to support the training outcomes related to the Navigation at the Management Level. This course supports training in the following Management Level control sheets: M-1-1A; M-1-1B; M-1-2G; M-1-2H; M-1-2; M-1-3A; M-1-4A; M-2-1; M-2-1B; M-2-1C; M-2-1D; M-1-2E; and M-2-1F. Prerequisite: Meet eligibility requirements for Management level license Advanced Shiphandling (SHLSOS-22) The 80-hour Advanced Shiphandling course meets the requirements from the STCW Code Table A-II/2 for the training of Masters and Chief Officers in reference to maintaining safety and security of the crew and passengers and the operational condition of safety equipment. The objective is for students to have a practical understanding of shiphandling. Students will apply lecture material to practical simulator exercises designed to meet the assessment standard of this course. This functional element provides detailed knowledge to support the training outcomes related to the Navigation at the Management Level. This course specifically addresses the following Advanced Shiphandling (Management Level) assessments: M-7-1A, M-7-2A, M-7-3A, M-7-3B, M-7-4A, M-7-5A, M-8-1A, M-8-2A, M-8-3A, M-8-4A, M-8-5A, M-8-6A, M-8-6B, M-8-7A, M-8-8A, M-8-9A. Prerequisite: Meet eligibility requirements for Management level license Advanced Watchkeeping (SHLSOS-27) The 40-hour Advanced Watchkeeping course will satisfy the Watchkeeping and Advanced COLREG training requirements for an STCW certificate as a Master or Chief Mate of 500 GT or more. This course addresses the following assessments: M-4-1A, M-4-1B, M4-1C, M-4-2A 1B from Table A-II/2 of STCW Code. Prerequisite: Meet eligibility requirements for Management level license Apprentice Mate (Steersman) (SHLSOS-31) (NST 249) The Paul Hall Center’s 103-hour Apprentice Mate (Steersman), Near Coastal course is a self-certifying course for mariners who are employed, or maybe employed, on uninspected towing vessels sailing under U.S. flag or registered/documented under any political subdivision in the United States. Training meets or exceeds requirements of 46 CFR 10.205(i) [proposed 11.201(j)] for original issuance or 46 CFR10. 209(c)(iii) [proposed 10.227 (i)] for renewal of a license as Apprentice Mate (Steersman) of Towing Vessels (Near Coastal and Great Lakes;—OR—(2) the examination requirements of 46 CFR 10.205(i) [proposed 11.201(j)] for original issuance or 46 CFR 10. 209(c)(iii) [proposed 10.227 (i)] for renewal of a license as Master of Towing Vessels(Near Coastal and Great Lakes) provided that they also provide evidence of service in the towing industry before May 21,2001, AND that the requirements of 46CFR 10.464(h) [proposed 11.464] are also met. After obtaining the requisite sea service and fulfilling other U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) requirements pertaining to this license, successful students will be able to take responsibility for the safety of an inspected towing vessel; be aware of obligations under Coast Guard regulations concerning safety and protection of passengers, crew, and the marine environment; and, be able to take the practical measures necessary to meet those obligations. Successful students will be issued a certificate of completion for an Apprentice Mate (Steersman), Near Coastal course. Prerequisites: Radar Observer Unlimited certificate; Able Seaman endorsement (any) Automatic Radar Plotting Aids (ARPA) (SHLSOS-37) Applicants completing our 32-hour Automatic Radar Plotting Aids (ARPA) course, including successful demonstration of all practical assessments, satisfy the ARPA training requirements for certification as Officer in Charge of a Navigational Watch on vessels of 500 or more gross tonnage (ITC) and of 46 CFR10.205(m)(1) [proposed 15.816]. The practical assessments conducted in this course January 2012 10160_SEAFARERS_Jan_2012.indd 9 Seafarers LOG 9 12/21/2011 7:36:51 AM �are equivalent to the following assessments from the National Assessment Guidelines for TableA-II/1 of the STCW Code: OICNW-3-2A; OICNW-3-2B; OICNW-3-2C;OICNW-3-2D; OICNW-3-2E; OICNW-3-2F; OICNW- 3-2G; OICNW-3-2H;OICNW-3-2I; OICNW-3-2J; OICNW-3-2K; OICNW-3-2L; and OICNW-32M. (Navigation exercises assume background in chart work and coastal navigation.) This course of instruction incorporates the use of ARPA simulation equipment to operate, observe, and use the radar plotting aids. Students gain an understanding of the limitations of the aids as well as their performance factors, sensor inputs and malfunctions and gain knowledge of tracking capabilities, processing, operational warnings, and target acquisition. Prerequisite: Valid Radar Observer Basic Meteorology (SHLSOS-62) (NST 239) Any applicant who has successfully completed our 40-hour Meteorology (Operational Level) course will satisfy the Meteorology training requirements for certification as Officer in Charge of a Navigational Watch on vessels of 500 or more gross tonnage (ITC). The practical assessments conducted in this course will be accepted as the equivalent of OICNW1-7A; OICNW-1-7B; and OICNW-1-7C from the National Assessment Guidelines for Table A-II/1 of the STCW Code. Prerequisite: AB with one year of sea service Basic Cargo Handling and Stowage (Operational Level) (SHLSOS-101) (NST 242) The Basic Cargo Handling and Stowage course is a 40-hour course for students who are employed, or may be employed, on U.S.flag vessels as required by STCW 1995, as amended. Students should be able to supervise the preparation and dunnaging of holds and the operation of ships’ cargo gear and will be aware of the importance of adequately securing cargo to prevent damage to the ship or cargo. Students will identify dangerous goods and know that they are stowed and separated according to requirements of the IMDG Code. They will also know the hazards related to some bulk cargoes and the precautions to take during their loading, carriage, and discharge. Students will also have a basic knowledge of the piping and pumping arrangements of oil tankers. They will understand safety precautions used prior to entering enclosed or potentially contaminated spaces. This course specifically addresses the requirements for Cargo Handling and Stowage at the Operational Level found in Table A-II/1 of the STCW Code, amended 1995. This is accomplished through classroom lecture and practical exercises. Prerequisite: AB with one year of sea service Basic Shiphandling and Steering Control Systems (SHLSOS-72) (NST 247) Any applicant who has successfully completed the 40-hour Basic Shiphandling and Steering Control Systems (Operational Level) course will satisfy the Basic Shiphandling and Steering Control Systems training requirements for certification as Officer in Charge of a Navigational Watch on vessels of 500 or more gross tonnage (ITC). The practical assessments in this class will be accepted as the equivalent of the following assessments from the National Assessment Guidelines for Table A-II/1 of the STCW Code: OICNW-1-6A; OICNW-1-6B; OICNW-5-1A; OICNW-5-1B; andOICNW5-1C. Prerequisite: AB with one year of sea service Bridge Resource Management (SHLSOS-75) Applicants completing our 30-hour Bridge Resource Management course satisfy the requirements of 46 CFR 10.205(o) [proposed 11.407(a)(2)] and the requirements of Section B-VIII/ 2, Part 3-1 of the STCW Code. Bridge Resource Management-Unlimited is designed for persons with significant shipping experience who hold or are seeking a U.S. Coast Guard license. This course fulfills the training requirements of effective bridge teamwork as set forth in STCW 95, A-II/1, A-II/2, and BVIII/ 2 and 46 CFR 10.25 and 10.209 [proposed 11.407(a)(2)]. Prerequisites: Radar Unlimited, ARPA, AB with 1 year seatime seeking an original third mate or limited license Bridge Resource Management (1600 Tons or less) (SHLSOS-77) Students who successfully complete this course will have the knowledge and experience needed to continually reassess the allocation and use of bridge resources using bridge management principles. This class is geared toward the smaller crew sizes of ATB and ITB vessels. Applicants completing our 26-hour Bridge Resource Management (1600 Tons) course satisfy the requirements of 46 CFR 10.205(o) [proposed 11.407(a)(2)] and the requirements of Section B-VIII/2, Part 3-1 of the STCW Code. THIS APPROVAL IS LIMITED TO SERVICE UPON VESSELS OF NOT MORE THAN 1600 GROSS TONS (DOMESTIC). Prerequisites: Radar Unlimited, ARPA Celestial Navigation (SHLSOS-103) Applicants completing our 126-hour Celestial Navigation course with a passing grade of at least 80 percent satisfy the Celestial Navigation training requirements for certification as Officer in Charge of a Navigational Watch on vessels of 500 or more gross tonnage (ITC). In conjunction with this course, any approved instructor is authorized to sign off for a successful demonstration on the students’ “Control Sheets” for the following assessments from the National Assessment Guidelines for Table A-II/1 of the STCW Code: OICNW-1-1A; OICNW-1-1B; OICNW-1-1C; OICNW-1-1D; OICNW-1-1E and OICNW-1-1F. The course covers the areas of celestial navigation required for licensing as a second or third mate unlimited and for all limited licenses. Students are instructed in latitude observations by sun and Polaris, running fixes by sun, stars, and planets, compass error by amplitude and azimuth, star identification, and care and use of the sextant. Prerequisites: ARPA, Radar Observer Crisis Management & Human Behavior (SHLSOS-138) Applicants completing our 7-hourCrisis Management & Human Behavior course satisfy: (1) the Crisis Management & Human Behavior training requirements of Table A-V/2and Paragraph 5 of Section A-V/2 of the STCW Code for Passenger Ships Other Than Ro-Ro Passenger Ships;—AND—(2) the Passenger Safety training requirements of Paragraph 4 of Section A-V/2 of the STCW Code for Passenger Ships Other Than Ro-Ro Passenger Ships. This course is designed for any person responsible for the safety of passengers in an emergency on passenger ships. The training includes organizing the safe movement of passengers when embarking and disembarking, organizing shipboard emergency procedures, optimizing the use of resources, controlling responses to emergencies, controlling passengers and other personnel during emergency situations, and establishing and maintaining effective communications. Prerequisites: No additional prerequisites Crowd Management (SHLSOS-142) Applicants completing our 4-hour Crowd Management course satisfy: (1)the Crowd Management training requirements of Paragraph 1 of SectionA-V/3 of the STCW Code for Passenger Ships Other Than Ro-Ro Passenger Vessels;—AND—(2) the Safety Training requirements of Paragraph 3 of Section A-V/3 of the STCW Code for Passenger Ships Other Than Ro-Ro Passenger Vessels. This course profiles the required knowledge and applicable skills for crowd management including controlling a crowd in an emergency, locating safety and emergency equipment on board a vessel, complying with ships’ emergency procedures, effective communications during an emergency, and demonstrating the use of personal lifesaving devices. Prerequisites: No additional prerequisites Electronic Chart Display Information Systems (ECDIS) (SHLSOS-179) Applicants completing our 35-hour Electronic Chart Display Information Systems (ECDIS) course are considered to have successfully demonstrated the competencies of Table A-II/1, Table A-II/2 and Section B-I paragraph 36-66 of the STCW Code. The course provides training in the basic theory and use of electronic chart display and information systems (ECDIS) for those who will be in charge of a navigational watch on vessels equipped with ECDIS. Students learn to use, update, and verify electronic chart information. The training comprises all safety-relevant aspects and aims beyond the use of operational controls. All theoretical aspects and major characteristics of ECDIS data, such as data contents, system integration, information layers, and data updating, are covered in depth. Prerequisites: Valid Radar, ARPA; and Terrestrial and Coastal Navigation OR valid USCG issued license (any level) Electronic Navigation (SHLSOS-181) (NST 246) Any applicant who has successfully completed our 40-hour Electronic Navigation course will satisfy the Electronic Navigation training requirements for certification as Officer in Charge of a Navigational Watch on vessels of 500 or more gross tonnage (ITC). The practical assessments in this course will 10 Seafarers LOG 10160_SEAFARERS_Jan_2012.indd 10 be accepted as the equivalent of the following assessments from the National Assessment Guidelines for Table A-II/1 of the STCW Code: OICNW-1-4A; OICNW-1-4B; OICNW-1-4C; and OICNW-1-4D. Prerequisite: AB with one year of sea service, Radar and ARPA Emergency Procedures (Operational Level) (SHLSOS-185) (NST 244) This 21-hour Emergency Procedures at the Operational Level course is designed for mariners who are employed, or may be employed, on U.S.-flagged vessels. This stand-alone course meets the requirements in Table A-II/1 of the STCW Code. This course covers contingency planning and emergency procedures in the event of a grounding, collision, fire/explosion, abandon ship; safety of passengers and crew; emergency steering arrangements, towing and rescue of persons, assisting vessels in distress; as well as emergencies in port. Prerequisite: AB with one year of sea service Fast Rescue Boat (SHLSOS-193) Applicants completing our 30-hour Fast Rescue Boat course satisfy the requirements of Table A-VI/2-2 of the STCW Code, Specification of the Minimum Standard of Competence in Fast Rescue Boats. The Paul Hall Center’s Fast Rescue Boat course trains students to handle and take charge of fast rescue boats during of after launch in adverse weather and sea conditions. Students learn how to operate a fast rescue boat engine, use all locating devices, including communication and signaling equipment between the rescue boat and a helicopter and the ship, and how to carry out search patterns. Prerequisites: Basic Safety Training, Survival Craft and Rescue Boats other than fast rescue boats (Lifeboatman). Global Maritime Distress & Safety System (GMDSS) (SHLSOS-210) Applicants completing our 70-hour Global Maritime Distress & Safety System (GMDSS) course with a passing grade of at least 75% satisfy the GMDSS training requirements of 46 CFR 10.205(n) [proposed 15.817] and Table A-IV/2 of the STCW Code. The class is designed to meet the requirements set forth in Table A-IV/2 of the amended STCW convention. Topics include principles of the global marine distress and safety system communications, distress alerting and operational procedures for VHF DSC, INMARST-C, MF/HF, NAVTEX, EPIRB, SART, and VHF (SCT). The course blends classroom instruction and practical exercises. There is an FCC cost associated with this course. Prerequisites: One year experience as a Rating Forming Part of Navigational Watch on the bridge of a near coastal or ocean vessel OR QMED-Electrician Magnetic and Gyro Compasses (SHLSOS-262) (NST 240) Any applicant who has successfully completed our 20-hour Magnetic and Gyro Compasses course will satisfy the Compass— Magnetic and Gyro training requirements for certification as Officer in Charge of a Navigational Watch on vessels of 500 or more gross tonnage(ITC). The practical assessments in this course will meet the requirements of assessments OICNW-1-5A; OICNW-1-5B; OICNW1-5C; OICNW-1-5D; andOICNW-1-5E from the National Assessment Guidelines for Table A-II/1of the STCW Code. Prerequisite: AB with one year of sea service January 2012 12/21/2011 7:37:16 AM �Master 100 Tons (Near Coastal) (SHLSOS-281) The Paul Hall Center’s 90-hour Master 100 Tons, Near Coastal course is a self certifying course for mariners who are employed, or may be employed, on passenger vessels sailing under U.S. flag or registered/documented under any political subdivision in the United States. Training meets or exceeds requirements of 46 CFR 10.206(i)[proposed 11.428] for original license, 46 CFR 10.209(c)(iii) [proposed 10.227(e )(iii)] for renewal, and 46CFR 10.209(f) [proposed 10.227 (i )(1)] for reissue. Students who present our certificate of training at a regional exam center within one year of the completion of training will satisfy the exam requirements of 46 CFR 10.205(i) [proposed 11.201(j)] for reissuance of a license. After obtaining the requisite sea service and fulfilling other U.S. Coast Guard requirements pertaining to this license, successful students will be able to take responsibility for the safety of an inspected passenger vessel of 100 tons and its passengers; be aware of obligations under Coast Guard regulations concerning safety and protection of passengers, crew, and the marine environment; and, be able to take the practical measures necessary to meet those obligations. Students successfully completing the course will be issued a certificate for successful completion for a Master 100 Ton, Near Coastal license. Prerequisite: meet all General requirements for Officers as set specified in 46 CFR 11.201; basic understanding of navigation, valid Radar Observer certificate; Able Seaman endorsement (Limited or Unlimited) Oil Spill Prevention & Containment This one-week course consists of classroom and practical training exercises. Topics include oil types and petroleum products’ behavior on water; pollution prevention regulations; hazardous materials training; spill prevention; absorbents, suction equipment, skimmers, and their proper use; and small boat operations. Students also receive instruction in spill containment booms, boom towing configurations, and anchoring operations. Prerequisites: No additional prerequisites Personal Safety & Social Responsibilities (SHLSOS-359) Applicants completing our 4-hour Personal Safety & Social Responsibilities course and presenting our Certificate of Training at a Regional Exam Center, satisfy the Personal Safety & Social Responsibilities training requirements of46 CFR 10.205(l)(4) and Section A-VI/1and Table A-VI/1-4 of the Seafarers’ Training, Certification and Watchkeeping (STCW) Code. This course provides the unlicensed apprentice candidate with a general understanding and basic knowledge of human relationships, social skills necessary for living and working aboard operational merchant ships, and a working knowledge of issues impacting preparedness for international travel. Prerequisites: No additional prerequisites Personal Survival Techniques (SHLSOS-363) Applicants completing our 12-hour Personal Survival Techniques course and presenting our Certificate of Training at a Regional Exam Center, satisfy the Personal Survival training requirements of Section A-VI/1 and Table A-VI/1-1 of the Seafarers’ Training, Certification and Watchkeeping (STCW) Code and 46 CFR10.205(l)(1) [proposed 11.301 &12.601]. Prerequisites: No additional prerequisites Proficiency in Survival Craft/Personal Survival Techniques (SHLSOS-378) Applicants completing our 37-hour Proficiency in Survival Craft/Personal Survival Techniques course will satisfy: the Survival Craft training requirements for Lifeboatman: Table A-VI/2-1 of the STCW Code;—AND— the Personal Survival Techniques training requirements of Basic Safety Training: Table AVI/1-1 of the STCW Code, —AND—the training requirements of 46 CFR 12.10-3(a) (6) [proposed 12.407(b)(4-5)] for an endorsement as Lifeboatman, PROVIDED that sea service requirements are also met as indicated in 12.407(b)(2)(ii);—AND—the written and practical examination requirements of 46 CFR12.10-5[proposed 12.407(b)(4-5)] for a Lifeboatman endorsement and the written examination requirements for service on vessels not equipped with lifeboats (Lifeboatman-Limited) [proposed 12.409(b)(4-5)], if presented WITHIN 1 YEAR of the completion of training This course helps mariners develop the required knowledge and application skills for water survival including launch, use and recovery of survival craft, and the proper use of survival equipment. Additionally, students learn the procedures necessary to take charge and maintain a survival craft and protect embarked personnel while on board. Prerequisites: 12 months of sea service in any department or 180 days of sea time within an approved program Radar Observer (Unlimited) (SHLSOS-399) Applicants completing our 10-day Radar Observer (Unlimited) course, including successful demonstration of all practical assessments, satisfy the requirements of 46CFR 10.480 [proposed 11.480] for an endorsement as Radar Observer (Unlimited) and the radar training requirements for certification as Officer in Charge of a Navigational Watch on vessels of 500 or more gross tonnage (ITC). In conjunction with this course, any approved instructor is authorized to sign off for a successful demonstration on the students’ “Control Sheets” for the following assessments from the National Assessment Guidelines for Table A-II/1 of the STCW Code: OICNW-1-2B; OICNW-1-2C; OICNW-3-1A; OICNW-3-1B;OICNW-3-1C; OICNW-3-1D; OICNW-3-1E; OICNW-3-1F; OICNW-3-1G;OICNW-3-1H; OICNW-3-1I; OICNW-3-1J; and OICNW-3-1K. This course features hands-on training and classroom work, including radar theory, observation, operation and use, interpretation and plotting, advanced radar plotting, collision avoidance and navigational exercise. Students operate modern audio-visual and radar simulation gear, as they practice controlling and maneuvering a vessel, plotting courses and safely guiding a ship without jeopardizing the safety of other vessels. Prerequisites: AB with one year of sea service Radar Observer Recertification (SHLSOS-402) Applicants completing our 8-hour Radar Observer Recertification course satisfy the requirements of 46 CFR10.480(d) [proposed 11.480(f)] for renewal of any Radar Observer endorsement. This course does not satisfy any training or assessment requirements of the STCW Convention and STCW Code. (Navigation exercises assume background in chart work and coastal navigation.) Prerequisites: Valid Radar Observer Unlimited or within 12 months after expiration date Ratings Forming Part of a Navigational Watch/Able Seaman (SHLSOS-416) Applicants completing our 4-week 144hour Ratings Forming Part of a Navigational Watch/Able Seaman program satisfy: (1) the training, seagoing service, and assessment requirements of 46 CFR 12.05-3(c) [proposed 12.605] and Section A-II/4 of the STCW Code, Mandatory Minimum Requirements for Certification of Ratings Forming Part of a Navigational Watch (RFPNW);—AND— (2) the written AND the practical (knot tying) examination requirements of 46 CFR 12.05 [proposed 12.405] for any Able Seaman endorsement PROVIDED that all other requirements of 46 CFR Subpart 12.05 [proposed 12.405], including sea service, are also met and presented WITHIN 1 YEAR of the completion of training. The course consists of hands-on training and classroom work covering deck seamanship, rules of the road, marlinespike seamanship, helmsmanship, cargo handling, safety, fire fighting, emergency procedures, first aid, anchoring, and mooring, and aids to navigation. Prerequisites: Sea service, Water Survival (Lifeboatman), STOS AB Special: 12 months’ service on deck, 2 months’ sea service under the supervision of the Master, the OICNW, or qualified STCW ratings AB Limited: 18 months’ service on deck, 2 months’ sea service under the supervision of the Master, OICNW, or qualified ratings AB Unlimited: 3 years’ deck, 2 months’ sea service under the supervision of the Master or OICNW Search and Rescue (Operational Level) (SHLSOS-447) (NST 245) Any applicant who has successfully com- pleted our 16-hour Search & Rescue (Operational Level) course will satisfy the Search & Rescue training requirements for certification as Officer in Charge of a Navigational Watch on vessels of 500 or more gross tonnage (ITC) as outlined in Table A-II/1 and A-II/2 of STCW Code. Prerequisite: AB with one year of sea service Ship Construction and Basic Stability (SHLSOS-449) (NST 243) The Paul Hall Center’s 40-hour Ship Construction at the Operational Level course is intended to provide training at the basic level for mariners who are employed, or may be employed, on U.S.-flag vessels whose responsibilities include maintaining the seaworthiness of the ship. On successful completion of this course, students will be able to use cargo plans and tables or diagrams of stability and trim data to calculate the ship’s initial stability, drafts, and trim for any given description of cargo and other weights. They will also be able to determine whether stresses on the ship are within permitted limits by the use of stress data or calculation equipment, or software. It takes into account STCW Code Table A-II/1: Function: controlling the operation of the ship and care for persons on board at the operational level; Ship construction. Upon successful completion of the course, students will have general knowledge of the principal structural members of a ship and the proper names for the various parts. At course completion, successful students will receive a Paul Hall Center certificate of completion in Ship Construction at the Operational Level. Prerequisite: AB with one year of sea service Ship Management (SHLSOS-451) This 70-hour course will satisfy the Ship Management training requirement for an STCW certificate as Master or Chief Mate of 500 GT or more. Assessment M-3-1A from table A-II/2 of STCW Code will allow the student to control the operation of the ship and care for persons onboard and maintain the safety and security of the crew and passengers at the Management Level. Prerequisite: Meet eligibility requirements for Management level license Specially Trained Ordinary Seaman (STOS) (SHLSOS-467) Applicants completing our 70-hour Specially Trained Ordinary Seaman course and presenting our Certificate of Training at a Regional Exam Center, satisfy: (1) the training requirements for service as a Specially Trained Ordinary Seaman AND (2) the training and assessment requirements of Table A-II/4 of the STCW Code, “Specification of Minimum Standard of Competence for Ratings Forming Part of a Navigational Watch,” and 46 CFR 12.05- 3(c) [proposed 12.605] PROVIDED they also present evidence of at least six months’ sea-going service performing navigational watchkeeping functions under the supervision of the Master or OICNW. If the applicant does not present evidence of six months of this service, he or she satisfies the training and assessment requirements for certification as Rating Forming Part of a Navigational Watch RESTRICTED to lookout duties only. This certification is valid for one year and may not be renewed. This course is designed for deck trainees who need a fast track to Ratings Forming Part of the Navigational Watch. It meets the requirements of 46 CFR12.05.3(c) [proposed 12.605] and STCW Table A-II/4. Topics covered in the course include: anchoring, mooring, knot-tying, gyro and magnetic compass, wheel watch, error chain analysis and pilot interactions, helm control, rules of the road, IALA buoy systems, shipboard communication, helm watch relief and lookout watch. Prerequisites: UA Program Phases 1and 2, or 180 days as an OS Tank Barge Dangerous Liquids (SHLSOS-491) Applicants completing our 38-hour Tank Barge Dangerous Liquids Course and presenting our Certificate of Training at a Regional Exam Center, satisfy the training requirements of 46 CFR 13.309[proposed 13.301(c)(4)] for an endorsement as Tankerman-PIC (Barge). Prerequisites: Basic Fire Fighting within 5 years January 2012 10160_SEAFARERS_Jan_2012.indd 11 Seafarers LOG 11 12/27/2011 6:47:28 AM �Tank Ship Dangerous Liquids (SHLSOS-501) Applicants completing our 5-day Tank Ship Dangerous Liquids course satisfy the training requirements of 46 CFR 13.113(d) (1) (ii) (A), 13.115 (b) (1),13.209, 13.309, 13.409 or 13.509 [proposed 13.201, 13.301, 13.401, 13.501] for any dangerous liquids tankerman endorsement. This course provides training for masters, chief engineers, and officers with immediate responsibility for the loading, discharging and care in transit or handling of cargo on large ocean going vessels. It comprises a specialized training program appropriate to their duties, including oil tanker safety, fire safety measure and systems, pollution prevention, operational practice and obligations under applicable laws and regulations. Prerequisites: 3 months’ seagoing service on tankers (DL) OR completion of a Tank Ship Familiarization (DL) course covering STCW Code Section A-V/1-1-1;a Fire fighting course in accordance with topics of 46 CFR13.121 Table 13.121(g) OR USCG-approved STCW Basic Safety Training course. Tank Ship Dangerous Liquids (Simulator) (SHLSOS-503) Applicants completing our 53-hour Tank Ship Dangerous Liquids (Simulator) course satisfy the training requirements of 46 CFR 13.113(d)(1)(ii)(A), 13.115(b)(1), 13.209, 13.309, 13.409 or 13.509 [proposed 13.201, 13.301, 13.401, 13.501] for any dangerous liquids tankerman endorsement;—AND— receive credit for: (1) two loadings and two discharges which may be applied toward satisfying the requirements of 46 CFR13.203(b) (1);—AND—(2) one commencement of loading and one completion of loading which may be applied toward satisfying the requirements in 46CFR 13.203(b)(2);—AND—(3) one commencement of discharge and one completion of discharge which may be applied toward satisfying the requirements in 46 CFR 13.203(b)(3). This course provides training for masters, chief engineers, officers, and any person with immediate responsibility for the loading, discharging and care in transit or handling of cargo. It comprises as specialized training program appropriate to their duties, including oil tanker safety, fire safety measure and systems, pollution prevention, operational practice and obligations under applicable laws and regulations. Prerequisites: 3 months’ seagoing service on tankers (DL) OR completion of a Tank Ship Familiarization (DL) course covering STCW Code Section A-V/1-1-1;a Fire fighting course in accordance with topics of 46 CFR13.121 Table 13.121(g) OR USCG-approved STCW Basic Safety Training course. Tank Ship Familiarization (Dangerous Liquids) (SHLSOS-505) Applicants completing our 63-hour Tank Ship Familiarization (Dangerous Liquids) course satisfy the training requirements of 46 CFR 13.409 [proposed 13.401(e)] for an original endorsement as Tankerman-Assistant DL. This course meets the Code of Federal Regulation requirements for personnel not having the required sea service. The objective of this course is to provide students with the knowledge and skills necessary to conduct operations on tankships. Topics include the 16-hour worker health and safety (HAZWOPER) First Responder/ Operations Level, Ship Design and Operation, Cargo Characteristics, Enclosed Space Entry, Cargo Transfer and Shipment, and Pollution Prevention, and Emergency Operations and Response. Prerequisite: Basic Fire Fighting within 5 years Tank Ship Familiarization (Liquefied Gases) (SHLSOS-507) Applicants completing our 30-hour Tank Ship Familiarization (Liquefied Gases) course satisfies the training requirements of 46 CFR 13.409[proposed 13.401(e) and 13.403(a)(2)] for an original endorsement as Tankerman-Assistant (LG), the tanker familiarization training requirements of Table A-V/1-2-1 of the STCW Code. This course consists of a safety program designed to meet STCW requirements for those who have not served on LNG ships. The course of instruction includes LNG fire fighting, confined space awareness, LNG nomenclature, LNG ship operations, personal safety, LNG safety, hazardous material, LNG cargo tank (level indicators, temperature), LNG cargo pump (Carter pump construction and ops), inert gas generator (general flow system), nitrogen gas system, LNG vapor compressor, warm-up heater and boil-off heater. Prerequisite: Basic Fire Fighting within 5 years Terrestrial & Coastal Navigation (SHLSOS-512) (NST 241) Any applicant who has successfully completed our 80-hour Terrestrial &Coastal Navigation course will satisfy the Terrestrial Navigation and Coastal Navigation training requirements for certification as Officer in Charge of a Navigational Watch on vessels of 500 or more gross tonnage (ITC). The practical assessments conducted in this course will be accepted as the equivalent of the following assessments from the National Assessment Guidelines for Table A-II/1 of the STCW Code: OICNW-1-2A; OICNW-1-2B; OICNW1-2C; OICNW-1-2D; OICNW-1-3A;OICNW1-3B; and OICNW-1-3C. Prerequisite: AB with one year of sea service, basic and intermediate navigational math skills Vessel Security Officer (SHLSOS-573) This 12-hour course provides knowledge to those wishing to perform the duties and responsibilities of a Vessel Security Officer (VSO) as defined in section A/2.1.6 (and section A/12.1) of the ISPS Code with respect to the security of a ship, for implementing and maintaining a Ship Security Plan, and for liaising with the Company Security Officer (CSO) and Port Facility Security Officers (PFSOs). Successful students will be able to undertake the duties and responsibilities as Vessel Security Officer as defined in section A/12.2 of the ISPS Code. Prerequisites: No additional prerequisites Visual Communications (Flashing Light) (SHLSOS-542) Applicants completing our 1-day Visual Communications course with a minimum score of 80 percent will: (1) Satisfy the practical signaling examination requirements (flashing light) of 46 CFR10.401(h) [proposed 11.401(i)] IF presented WITHIN 1 YEAR of the completion of training;—AND—(2) Be considered to have successfully demonstrated the competence “Transmit and Receive In formation by Visual Signaling” of Table A-II/1 of the STCW Code. Prerequisites: Proof of approval for 500GT or more NC/Oceans license Water Survival (Lifeboatman) (SHLSOS-549) The Water Survival course delivers 60 hours of training to those who are seeking a MMD endorsement for Lifeboatman as required by 46 CFR [proposed 12.407]. The course also incorporates the personal survival training requirements as outlined in STCW 1995 Table A-VI/2. The course provides the student with the required knowledge and application skills for water survival including launch, use and recovery of survival craft, and the proper use of survival equipment. Additionally, the student will understand the procedures necessary to take charge of and maintain survival craft and protect embarked personnel. Prerequisites: 12 months of sea time or part of UA program Watchkeeping (Operational Level) (SHLSOS-548) (NST 248) Any applicant who has successfully completed our 80-hour Watchkeeping (Operational Level) course will satisfy the Watchkeeping training requirements for certification as Officer in Charge of a Navigational Watch on vessels of 500 or more gross tonnage (ITC); AND the Bridge Resource Management training requirements of 46 CFR 10.205(o) [proposed 11.407(a)(2)] and the requirements of Section B-VIII/2, Part 4 of the STCW Code. The practical assessments conducted in this course are OICNW-2-1A; OICNW-2-1B, OICNW-2-1C, OICNW-2-1D, OICNW-2-1E, OICNW-2-1F, OICNW-2-2A, OICNW-2-2B, OICNW-2-2C, OICNW-2-2D, OICNW-2-2E, OICNW-2-2F, OICNW-2-3A, OICNW-2-3B, OICNW-2-3C, OICNW-2-3D, OICNW-2-3E, OICNW-23F,OICNW-2-3G, AND OICNW-2-3H from the National Assessment Guidelines for Table A-II/1 of the STCW Code. Prerequisite: AB with one year of sea service Engine Department Many engine department courses have prerequisites. For example, to be accepted for Advanced Refrigerated Container Maintenance, students must have successfully completed Basic Marine Electrician and Marine Refrigeration Technician. Advanced Refrigerated Container Maintenance This 4-week course leads to certification in refrigerated containers maintenance and consists of classroom and practical shop training. The training experience enables students to assume the duties of a maintenance electrician on board ships carrying refrigerated containers. Students receive training in all phases of refrigerated container unit operation, maintenance, repair, and troubleshooting. This includes the various types of engines, refrigeration, and electrical systems. The course is designed to help students develop a systematic approach to troubleshooting and maintenance procedures. Prerequisites: Junior Engineer or QMEDAny Rating, Basic Marine Electrician and Marine Refrigeration Technician Automated Cargo Operations This 6-week course of instruction in the pumpman career track includes classroom and simulator training in all facets of liquid cargo loading and discharge. The curriculum consists of cargo properties and emergency procedures, operation and maintenance of valves and pumps, loading procedures, cargo pump operations, cargo measurement, discharging procedures, ballasting procedures, tank cleaning, inert gas systems and more. Prerequisites: QMED-Any Rating Class 3 or QMED Junior Engineer/Pumpman Class 3. Recommended: Basic and Intermediate Math and Computer Basic Advanced plant maintenance must be completed for advancement to QMED Class 2 Basic Auxiliary Plant Operations (SHLSOS-51) Applicants completing our 140-hour Basic Auxiliary Plant Operations course and who present our Certificate of Training at a Regional Exam Center WITHIN 1 YEAR of the completion of training, satisfy the examination requirements of 46 CFR 12.15-9 [proposed 12.502(c)] for the General Safety examination module, PROVIDED they have also completed either our 63-hour Basic Motor Plant Operations course and/or our 70-hour Basic Steam Plant Operations course. The objective of this course is to provide students with knowledge and practical operational skills required of rated engine department watchstanders as they sail in the capacity of FOWT. This objective is accomplished through classroom lectures and shore-side auxiliary plant simulator practical exercises. Prerequisites: Successful completion of the Paul Hall Center Unlicensed Apprentice Training Program; successful completion of the unlicensed apprentice sea voyage and required sea projects; unlicensed apprentice sea voyage performance evaluations within the engine department as completed by the First Assistant Engineer of at least satisfactory or better; recommendation by the unlicensed apprentice sea voyage participating vessel’s Chief Engineer OR 6 months’ sea time as wiper AND STCW certification in all areas of basic safety training; successful completion of the entry-level sea voyage and auxiliary plant familiarization sea project; total USCG-approved sea service or equivalent sea service in the engine room of vessels of at least 6 months; meet all USCG physical standards for qualified members of the engine department. Military veterans meeting the prior military sea service requirement in the engine room of vessels must meet the following entrance requirements: Prior approval to the military veterans program for ratings forming part of an engineering watch; meet all USCG physical standards for qualified members of the engine department Basic Electricity (SHLSOS-52) This is a 70-hour course is part of the Junior Engineer program and designed for students who have completed the Ratings Forming Part of an Engineering Watch program or rated engine department personnel desiring to upgrade their skills. The course is designed for those seeking qualification as a QMED and Junior Engineer endorsement. The course provides 12 Seafarers LOG 10160_SEAFARERS_Jan_2012.indd 12 January 2012 12/27/2011 6:47:29 AM �the mariner electrical skills required of a rated member of the engine department. Topics covered include the fundamentals of electricity, electrical safety, batteries, direct current circuits, alternating current theory, D.C. machines, A.C. machines, motor controllers, distribution systems, propulsion systems and communication systems. Detailed learning objectives are identified in Section II. Prerequisites: Tank Ship Familiarization Dangerous Liquids (DL) course, Basic Auxiliary Plant Operations course, Fireman Oiler Watertender (FOWT) program or hold FOWT endorsement, 6 months’ equivalent sea service in the engine room Basic Motor Plant Operations (SHLSOS-63) This 63-hour course is part of the FWT program for rated Oilers as prescribed in table A-III/4 of the STCW Code, and 46 CFR 12.157, and 12.15-9 [proposed 12.503 and 12.505]. The course provides skills required of rated engine department watchstanders. Steam and water cycle and steam thermodynamics and components are covered as well as steam plant simulator operations, casualty control procedures, maintenance, watchkeeping, and conducting machinery space rounds. Prerequisites: Successful completion of the Paul Hall Center Unlicensed Apprentice Training Program, the Auxiliary Plant Operations course, basic safety training, 6 months’ or equivalent sea service in the engine room Basic Refrigeration & Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) (SHLSOS-64) This 10-day (70-hour) course is for students who have completed the Ratings Forming Part of an Engineering Watch program or rated engine department personnel desiring to upgrade their skills. The course is a stand-alone course within the Qualified Member of the Engine Department (QMED) program and is designed for those seeking qualification as a QMED and Junior Engineer endorsement. The course provides the mariner the cognitive and practical mechanical skills required of rated engine department personnel in the area of Basic Refrigeration and HVAC as they sail in the capacity of Junior Engineer during voyages on U.S.flagged vessels. This objective is accomplished through classroom lectures and practical exercises. Proficiency and competency assessments are conducted through knowledge-based written tests and practical demonstrations of skills. Areas covered are electrical and refrigeration safety, refrigeration theory, an introduction to the refrigeration cycle and systems, troubleshooting, and an introduction to HVAC systems. Prerequisites: Tank Ship Familiarization Dangerous Liquids (DL) course, Basic Auxiliary Plant Operations course, Fireman Oiler Watertender (FOWT) program or hold FOWT endorsement, 6 months’ equivalent sea service in the engine room Basic Steam Plant Operations (SHLSOS-73) This 70-hour course is designed for entry level engine department personnel desiring to upgrade to rated Firemen/Watertenders and Oilers (FOWT). It exceeds requirements prescribed in table A-III/4 of the STCW Code. The objective of this course is to provide the Academic Deparment The Academic Department has a long history of providing support and services to students at the Paul Hall Center. Since the founding of the school in Piney Point, Md., there has been academic support for students taking vocational programs as well as for those students who require basic skills, English language skills or wish to continue their education. There are a variety of opportunities offered to all students. Specific questions about the programs can be answered or explained by contacting the Academic Department at (301) 994-0010, ext. 5411. General Education Program – High School Diploma The GED program is open to all mariners who do not have a high school diploma. Assistance is offered to prepare students to take the test in Maryland or in their home state. Emphasis is placed on writing skills, social studies, science, interpreting literature and art, and mathematics. GED students receive individu- January 2012 10160_SEAFARERS_Jan_2012.indd 13 mariner skills required of rated engine department watchstanders in the area of steam plant watchstanding. This objective is accomplished through classroom lectures as well as shoreside steam plant simulator practical exercises. Areas covered are the steam and water cycle and steam thermodynamics, boiler types and classification, boiler waterside construction and arrangements, boiler fireside construction and arrangements, air registers and fuel atomizers, forced draft systems, fuel oil service systems, flame/smoke and stack gas analysis, automatic combustion controls, boiler protective devices, and boiler water chemistry and treatment. Also included are turbine types and classification, turbine construction, turbine protective devices and operating controls, steam condensers, condensate systems and air removal equipment, direct contact heaters, feed systems, steam systems, condensate drains systems, steam plant propulsion machinery, lubricating oil systems, and sea water systems. Additionally, steam plant simulator operations, casualty control procedures, burner atomizer maintenance, manual light-off of non-automated boilers, and watchkeeping and conducting machinery space rounds are covered. Prerequisites: Successful completion of the Paul Hall Center Unlicensed Apprentice Training Program, the Auxiliary Plant Operations course, basic safety training, 6 months’ or equivalent sea service in the engine room. Designated Duty Engineer (Non-STCW) This course prepares the student for the USCG examination for Designated Duty Engineer (DDE). The object of the course is to familiarize the student with the subjects and topics required for successful preparation for the USCG examination and to prepare the student to act in these capacities as outlined in the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR). Instruction alized instruction in preparation for the test. The school for many years has successfully prepared mariners to pass the test. For many students, this is a milestone in their lives. (A 12-week residency is required prior to taking the test in Maryland .) Basic Vocational Support Program The vocational support system assists students in improving course-specific vocational language and mathematical skills. It is designed to augment the skills introduced in their vocational training classes. This program may be taken prior to attending the vocational class or concurrently with the vocational class. It is ideal for those students who have been away from the classroom, need to improve basic academic skills or who are not native English speakers. The Adult Basic Education assistance program (ABE) helps students improve their basic language, technical vocabulary and mathematical skills. These skills help students experience greater success in both vocational and academic classes. Students who receive low scores on the Test of Adult Basic Educa- includes the CFR, environmental protection and oil pollution, general safety precautions for engine room personnel, piping, air, hydraulics, power and control systems, refrigeration, heating, air conditioning and ventilation systems, electrical theory and shipboard lighting and auxiliary deck machinery. Prerequisites: General admission requirements, prior Coast Guard approval letter valid through test dates of the class Diesel Engine Technology (Non-STCW) This 4-week course, leading to certification in diesel engine technology, consists of classroom instruction and hands-on training. Topics of instruction include diesel engine theory; twoand four-stroke cycle operating principles; and the construction, operation, maintenance, repair and troubleshooting of low-, medium-and highspeed diesel engines. Also covered are associated auxiliaries including intake and exhaust systems, lubrication and cooling systems, and fuel injection and starting systems. Students receive practical training in the operation and repair of diesel engines on board school training vessels. Prerequisites: QMED-Any Rating or equivalent inland experience Engineering Plant Maintenance (SHLSOS-191) The 140-hour Engineering Plant Maintenance course is part of the Junior Engineer program and designed for mariners who have completed the Ratings Forming Part of an Engineering Watch program or who are rated engine department personnel desiring to upgrade their skills. The course is a stand-alone course within the Qualified Member of the Engine Department (QMED) Program and is for those seeking qualification as a QMED and USCG certification as a Junior Engineer/Deck Engineer rating, or for those already holding a rating to earn the tion (TABE) benchmark examinations, given at the Paul Hall Center, are encouraged to avail themselves of support from the Academic Department through this program. Students may use this service while attending the Trainee program or attending upgrader classes. The English as a Second Language assistance program helps students in Basic English and technical vocabulary skills. The purpose of this program is to give seafarers who have not learned English as their native language and who have difficulty speaking, hearing, understanding and/or writing the English language, the opportunity to gain more proficiency in that language. As much as possible, instruction will be provided to give the seafarer the English language skills necessary to perform the essential tasks within the department under which he or she sails. Tutoring is offered throughout the year for those students requiring additional instruction while attending vocational classes. College Program The Paul Hall Center is a degree granting institution approved by the Maryland Higher Junior Engineer/Deck Engineer rating or acquire the requisite metalworking and mechanical maintenance skills. The course provides mariners the cognitive and practical mechanical skills required of a rated member of the engine department. This is accomplished through classroom lectures and practical exercises. Proficiency and competency assessments are conducted through knowledge-based written tests and practical demonstrations of skills. Topics covered include the mechanics of pumps, drive couplings, heat exchangers, valves, distilling plants, oil/water separators, air compressors, marine sewage treatment plants, auxiliary boilers, and hydraulic systems, the fundamentals of diesel engines, bearings and gears, lubrication theory, lubrication systems and maintenance, fuel systems, and purifiers. Prerequisites: Tank Ship Familiarization Dangerous Liquids (DL) course, Basic Auxiliary Plant Operations course, Fireman Oiler Watertender (FOWT) program or hold FOWT endorsement, 6 months’ equivalent sea service in the engine room Fireman, Oiler & Watertender (FOWT) (SHLSOS-389) Applicants completing Basic Auxiliary Plant Operations and both Basic Motor Plant Operations and Basic Steam Plant Operations will meet the requirements for endorsement as FOWT. (These classes are described elsewhere as stand-alone courses.) Applicants completing Basic Auxiliary Plant Operations and either Basic Motor Plant Operations or Basic Steam Plant Operations will be eligible for an FOWT (Restricted) endorsement. Prerequisites: Successful completion of the Paul Hall Center Unlicensed Apprentice Training Program; successful completion of the unlicensed apprentice sea voyage and required sea projects; unlicensed apprentice sea voyage performance evaluations within the engine deEducation Commission. Vocational courses also are approved for credit by the American Council on Education (ACE). Students may apply for college credit for many of the vocational courses that they take while upgrading at the school. In addition, the center offers general education courses required for an associate’s degree. The school currently offers Associate of Applied Science degree programs in Nautical Science Technology (deck department students) or Marine Engineering Technology (engine department students). There also is a certificate program in maritime technology with concentrations in nautical science or marine engineering. All programs are designed to provide the opportunity for mariners to earn a college degree or certificate in their occupational areas and provide a solid academic foundation in general education subjects. Students are required to have a total of 60 to 70 college hours to earn a degree. Students also may take advantage of remedial programs that help prepare them for college level courses. It is recommended that students meet with a counselor to plan a college program. Seafarers LOG 13 12/21/2011 7:38:14 AM �partment as completed by the First Assistant Engineer of at least satisfactory or better; recommendation by the unlicensed apprentice sea voyage participating vessel’s Chief Engineer OR 6 months’ sea time as wiper AND STCW certification in all areas of basic safety training; successful completion of the entry-level sea voyage and auxiliary plant familiarization sea project; total USCG-approved sea service or equivalent sea service in the engine room of vessels of at least 6 months; meet all USCG physical standards for qualified members of the engine department. Military veterans meeting the prior military sea service requirement in the engine room of vessels must meet the following entrance requirements: Prior approval to the military veterans program for ratings forming part of an engineering watch; meet all USCG physical standards for qualified members of the engine department Hydraulics The curriculum in the 4-week hydraulics course blends practical training with classroom work. Fluids, actuators, control devices, pumps, reservoirs, symbols, and hydraulic systems in marine equipment are among the subjects covered in this class. Also addressed are principles of electrical control of hydraulic systems, cargo winches, deck cranes, anchor windlasses, ships’ steering systems, ramps, fire doors, and a variety of other shipboard systems. Prerequisite: QMED-Any Rating Junior Engineer The Junior Engineer Program consists of stand-alone courses 70-hour Basic Refrigeration & HVAC, 70-hour Basic Electricity, and 140-hour Engineering Plant Maintenance courses. (These classes are described elsewhere as stand-alone courses.) Machinist (SHLSOS-261) Our 102-hour Machinist course provides mariners cognitive and practical mechanical skills in the area of general metalworking and machine tool operations. Applicants completing our course, and presenting our Certificate of Training at a Regional Exam Center, satisfy the requirements of 46 CFR 12.15- 9 [proposed 12.505], if presented WITHIN 1 YEAR of the completion of training, for the Machinist examination module, provided they also present evidence of completing the requirements to be endorsed with a Junior Engineer rating prior to commencing the above training. Prerequisites: SHLSS Junior Engineer or QMED-Any Rating Marine Electrician (SHLSOS-269) Applicants completing our 280-hour Marine Electrician course, and presenting our Certificate of Training at a Regional Exam Center, satisfy the requirements of 46 CFR 12.15-9 [proposed 12.505], if presented WITHIN 1YEAR of the completion of training, for the Electrician examination module, provided they also present evidence of acquiring at least 90 days’ engine room service while endorsed as a QMED–Junior Engineer prior to commencing the above training. This course provides engine department personnel with the theoretical and practical knowledge and skills necessary to perform maintenance and repair operations on motors, generators, and controllers on board ship. Prerequisite: 6 months QMED, SHLSS Junior Engineer, or QMED-Any Rating Marine Refrigeration Technician (SHLSOS-274) This Refrigeration Technician course is a 6-week (210-hour) course designed for mariners who are employed, or may be employed, on U.S.-flag vessels. Training meets or exceeds requirements of 46 CFR Section 12.15-9 (b) [proposed 12.505] for Refrigeration Engineer. The objective of the Marine Refrigeration Technician course is to provide engine department personnel with the theoretical and practical knowledge and the skills necessary to perform maintenance and repair operations on ship’s stores plants, air conditioning plants, cargo refrigeration, ventilation and dehumidification equipment, as well as pantry refrigerators, water coolers, and ice machines. An introduction to refrigerated container units will also be presented. Prerequisite : 6 months’ sea time after Junior Engineer, QMED-Any Rating, or SHLSS Junior Engineer Pumpman (SHLSOS-380) The Pumpman course is a 70-hour, 10-day 14 Seafarers LOG 10160_SEAFARERS_Jan_2012.indd 14 Online Learning Seafarers now have educational opportunities through the Internet. Eligible members of the SIU may now take courses online by registering with the Paul Hall Center Admissions Department as they would for classes on the Paul Hall Center campus. Once Seafarers have been accepted by Admissions, they will be directed to Dale Rausch in the Academic Department. Dale is the Computer Assisted Learning (CAL) administrator, the distance learning component for the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education. Online Courses Available The following formal online courses are available: n DOD Level 1 Antiterrorism Awareness Training n MSC Environmental Awareness n First Aid Preparation n Global Maritime Distress and Safety System n Hazardous Material Control and Management n Hearing Conservation n Heat Stress Management n Bloodborne Pathogens n Shipboard Pest Management n Respiratory Protection n Back Safety course designed for mariners who are employed, or may be employed, on U.S.-flag vessels. Training meets or exceeds requirements of 46 CFR Sec. 12.15-9 (c) [proposed 12.505] for Pumpman. The objective of the Pumpman course is to provide engine department personnel with the theoretical and practical knowledge and the skills necessary to operate, maintain, and repair the equipment associated with the handling of liquid cargo onboard a tankship. Topics covered in the Pumpman course are Inert Gas Systems, Crude Oil Washing (COW) Systems, Vapor Recovery, and two days of assessment in the Cargo Simulator. Prerequisite : SHLSS Junior Engineer or QMED-Any Rating, Tank Ship Familiarization, Welding and Machinist Ratings Forming Part of an Engineering Watch Assessment Program for Military Veterans (SHLSOS-421) Prerequisites: Military Veteran with proof of DD-214 and page 4, 180 days of creditable sea time Welding (IMET 210) This 4-week, 105-hour course is composed of classroom instruction and hands-on training, which features practical training in electric arc welding and cutting and oxyacetylene brazing, welding, and cutting. Prerequisites: No additional prerequisites Steward Department Galley Operations This 4-week course provides the student with understanding of the basic baking knowledge and skills potentially required of a member of the steward department. Prerequisites: Paul Hall Center UA Program and 240 days’ sea time OR 365 days’ sea time as an SA n Fixed Fire Fighting Systems n Shipboard Fire Fighting n Portable Fire Extinguishers n Fire Fighting Equipment n Shipboard Water Sanitation n Crew Endurance Management Eligible SIU members also have the opportunity to enroll in preparatory and refresher training online prior to coming to the Paul Hall Center. These programs allow students to brush up on their math skills and vocational vocabulary before enrolling in the more challenging resident upgrading classes. Two of these programs, Basic Culinary Skills and Chief Cook Preparation, will be very useful to Galley Ops and Chief Cook students as they study for final exams in their respective resident courses. The following prep training is available: n Basic Math Refresher n Intermediate Math Refresher n Marine Engineering Mathematics Preparation n Introduction to Navigational Math n Basic Culinary Skills n Chief Cook Preparation Course Students who are currently enrolled in resident classes at the Paul Hall Center are encouraged to enroll in CAL courses. Residential students should notify the Admissions Department of their interest in CAL and confirm their eligibility. Certified Chief Cook This course consists of 6, two-week, stand-alone modules totaling 12 weeks. This structure allows eligible upgraders to enroll at the start of any module. The objective of the Certified Chief Cook Course (FSM 203) is to provide steward department personnel with an understanding and knowledge of sanitation, nutrition, and the preparation and service of soups, sauces, meats, poultry, and seafood. Prerequisites: Galley Operations and 180 days’ sea time Advanced Galley Operations This course consists of 4, one-week modules (totaling four weeks). The course provides students with a thorough grasp of the advanced baking knowledge and skills required of a member of the steward department. Prerequisites: Paul Hall Center Certified Chief Cook and 180 days’ sea time ServSafe The ServSafe Food Protection Manager Certification is offered during Module 1 of Certified Chief Cook. It is nationally recognized and accredited. Some of the concepts students will understand with ServSafe training include: (1) Sanitation: the dangers of foodborne illness, how to prevent it and the keys to food safety, see where contamination starts, the components for good personal hygiene, and how every employee can be a safe food handler; (2) The Flow of Food Through the Operation: how to prevent cross-contamination, how to utilize time and temperature control effectively, safe receiving, food storage, preparation and serving, and cooling and reheating, active control of critical foodborne illness risk factors makes all the difference for a safe operation; (3) Sanitary Facilities and Pest Management: all aspects of cleaning and sanitation in a practical, applicable manner, pest management, and how to keep pests out of the operation. Prerequisites: Enrollment or completion of Certified Chief Cook Certified Chief Steward The Certified Chief Steward course is a 12-week course for members of the steward department. The course is presented in eight modules. Each module is assessed independently of the others. Modules may be taken in one-week increments with breaks between. This course trains stewards to take charge of a production galley, plan and prepare meals, and supervise employees in galley operations for a period of not less than 28 days. On meeting the minimum requirements for Certified Chief Steward, culinary students will be competent to take charge of a production galley. The Certified Chief Steward course stresses the competencies related to the supervision of the galley, menu planning, requisitioning of supplies, inventory control, and sanitation. Prerequisites: Advanced Galley Operations and 180 days’ sea time Safety Classes Advanced Fire Fighting (SHLSOS-15) Applicants completing our 35-hour Advanced Fire Fighting course satisfy the Advanced Fire Fighting training requirements of Section A-VI/3 and Table A-VI/3 of the STCW Code and 46 CFR10.205(l)(2)[proposed 11.205(d)];—AND—the Advanced Fire Fighting training requirements of 46 CFR10.205(g) and 10.401(g)(1) )[proposed 11.201(h)] for a license. During this course, students learn to blueprint a vessel and organize emergency squads for fire fighting. The class covers effective communication between crew members and land-based fire units, leadership roles and responsibilities, documentation of crew training, and emergency squad training. Students also learn to inspect and service personal shipboard fire extinguishing equipment before going through shipboard simulations and actual firefighting drills. Prerequisite: Basic Fire Fighting Basic Fire Fighting (SHLSOS-54) Applicants completing our 16-hour Basic Fire Fighting course and presenting our Certificate of Training at a Regional Exam Center, satisfy: (1) the Basic Safety Fire Prevention and Fire Fighting training requirements of Section A-VI/1 and TableA-VI/1-2 of the Seafarers Training, Certification and Watchkeeping (STCW) Code and 46 CFR 10.205(l)(2) [proposed 11.301(b)];—AND—(2)the Basic Fire Fighting training requirements of 46 CFR 10.205(g)[proposed 12.601(b)] and10.401(g) (1) for a license[proposed 11.205(d)];— AND—(3)the Fire Fighting training requirements of46 CFR 13.113(d)(2)(i)(A),13.113(e) (1)(i)(A) or (B), 13.201(e),13.301(e), 13.401(d) or 13.501(e) [proposed 13.201(c), 13.301(c), 13.401(d), 13.501(c),]for any tankerman endorsement. The objective of this course is to familiarize the student with the chemical process of fire, its behavior and the various methods and equipment used to combat it. Prerequisites: No additional prerequisites January 2012 12/21/2011 7:38:30 AM �Basic Fire Fighting (SHLSOS-57) Applicants completing our 35-hour Basic Fire Fighting course and presenting our Certificate of Training at a Regional Exam Center, satisfy: (1) the Basic Safety Fire Prevention and Fire Fighting training requirements of Section A-VI/1 and TableA-VI/1-2 of the Seafarers Training, Certification and Watchkeeping (STCW) Code and 46 CFR 10.205(l)(2) [proposed 11.301(b)];—AND—(2)the Basic Fire Fighting training requirements of 46 CFR 10.205(g)[proposed 12.601(b)] and10.401(g) (1) for a license[proposed 11.205(d)];— AND—(3)the Fire Fighting training requirements of46 CFR 13.113(d)(2)(i)(A),13.113(e) (1)(i)(A) or (B), 13.201(e),13.301(e), 13.401(d) or 13.501(e) [proposed 13.201(c), 13.301(c), 13.401(d), 13.501(c),]for any tankerman endorsement. The objective of this course is to familiarize the student with the chemical process of fire, its behavior and the various methods and equipment used to combat it. Prerequisites: No additional prerequisites Basic Safety Training The Basic Safety Training Program consists of stand-alone courses of components outlined in Basic Fire Fighting, First Aid/CPR, Personal Safety & Social Responsibilities, and Personal Survival Training. (These classes are described elsewhere as stand-alone courses.) Basic Safety Training Renewal (SHLSOS-69) This 21-hour course was designed for persons sailing aboard military-contracted vessels and satisfies the Military Sealift Command (MSC) three-year BST renewal requirement. It does not replace the SHLSS STCW Basic Safety Course, Basic Fire Fighting, or Water Survival training courses required by 46 CFR for USCG endorsement as Lifeboatman. Modules meet or exceed the minimum mandatory requirements of STCW 1995, Section A-VI/1, Mandatory minimum requirements for familiarization and basic safety training and instruction for all seafarers. The course refreshes the students on the fundamental knowledge and skills of basic shipboard safety necessary for employment aboard military-contracted vessels as set out in the STCW Code tables A-VI/1-1 through A-VI/1-4. These are personal survival techniques (1-1), fire prevention and fire fighting (1-2), elementary first aid (1-3), and personal safety and social responsibilities (1-4). Students successfully completing this course will be capable of recognizing and responding to an emergency at sea. Course objectives are accomplished through classroom lectures and practical exercises. Prerequisite: Valid Basic Safety Training certificates Combined Basic & Advanced Fire Fighting (SHLSOS-125) Applicants completing our 40-hour Ad- Cruise Ships Crowd Management (MST 123) This four-hour course profiles the required knowledge and applicable skills for crowd management including controlling a crowd in an emergency situation, locating safety and emergency equipment on board a vessel, complying with ship emergency procedures, communicating effectively during an emergency and demonstrating the use of personal life saving devices. This course fulfills the requirements of Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping (STCW), (1995), Section V/3, paragraphs 4-7 for passenger ships. Prerequisites: No additional prerequisites Crisis Management and Human Behavior (MST 124) The seven-hour Crisis Management and Human Behavior Training course trains persons having responsibility for the safety of passengers in emergency situations on passenger ships. The training includes organizing the safe movement of passengers when embarking and disembarking, organizing shipboard emergency procedures, optimizing the use of resources, controlling responses to emergencies, controlling passengers and other personnel during emergency situations, and establishing and maintaining effective communications. This course meets the requirements of STCW, 1995, Section A-V/2. Prerequisites: No additional prerequisites January 2012 10160_SEAFARERS_Jan_2012.indd 15 vanced Fire Fighting course satisfy: (1) the Advanced Fire Fighting training requirements of Section A-VI/3 and Table A-VI/ 3 of the STCW Code and 46 CFR 10.205(l)(2) )[proposed 11.205(d)];—AND—(2) the Advanced Fire Fighting training requirements of 46 CFR 10.205(g)[proposed 12.601(b)] and10.401(g) (1) for a license[proposed 11.205(d)] for a license. The objective of this course is to familiarize students with the fundamentals of shipboard and tank barge fire fighting. Prerequisites: No additional prerequisites First Aid & CPR (21-Hour) (SHLSOS-198) Applicants completing our 21-hour First Aid & CPR course satisfy: (1) the Basic Safety-Elementary First Aid training requirements of Section A-VI/1 and Table A-VI/ 1-3 of the STCW Code and 46CFR 10.205(l)(3) [11.601(b)];— AND— (2)—IF—presented WITHIN 1 YEAR of the date of training, the First Aid & CPR training requirements of 46 CFR 10.205(h)(1) (ii)and 10.205(h)(2)(iii) [proposed 11.201(h) and 11.301(b)] for original issuance of a license. Students in this class learn the principles and techniques of safety and basic first aid, and cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) according to the accepted standards of the American Red Cross. Successful students are awarded a certificate from the American Red Cross. Prerequisites: No additional prerequisites First Aid & CPR (8-Hour) (SHLSOS-199) Applicants completing our 8-hour Elementary First Aid course and presenting our Certificate of Training at the Regional Exam Center (REC) satisfy: (1) the First Aid training requirements of 46 CFR10.205(h)(1)(ii) [proposed 11.201(h) and 11.301(b)] for original issuance of a license;—AND—(2) the Basic SafetyElementary First Aid training requirements of Section A-VI/1 and Table A-VI/1- 3 of the Seafarers Training, Certification and Watchkeeping (STCW) Code and 46 CFR10.205(l) (3) [11.601(b)]. Prerequisites: No additional prerequisites HAZMAT Recertification This one-day class includes a regulatory overview of Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSHA) requirements, reviews of toxology terminology, medical monitoring instruments and techniques, site-control and emergency preparedness, proper use of respiratory protection, and monitoring equipment and new technology. Prerequisite: 24- or 40-hour Hazardous Materials (HAZMAT) courses Maritime Security Awareness (SHLSOS-561) This 4-hour class provides the knowledge required for all personnel not assigned specific duties in connection with the security plan but involved in the work of ports, facilities and vessels and are affected by the requirements of Maritime Transportation Security Act of 2002 and/or Chapter XI-2 of SOLAS 1974 as amended and/or IMO ISPS Code and/or USCG regulations in 33 CFR Chapter 1 Subchapter H. Prerequisites: No additional prerequisites Medical Care Provider (SHLSOS-310) Applicants completing our 21-hour Medical Care Provider course satisfy the Medical First Aid training requirements of Table A-VI/4-1 of the STCW Code and 46 CFR 12.13-1 [proposed 15.404k]. This course is designed for mariners who are employed or may be employed on U.S.-flag ships. It meets STCW requirements. Topics include a review of cardiac and airway management, rescuer safety, body structure, examining trauma victims and medical patients, treating head and spinal injuries, burns, musculoskeletal injuries, rescued persons, obtaining radio medical advice, administering medication, and sterilization techniques. Students successfully completing this course must take a refresher course within five years or provide information to the U.S. Coast Guard documenting maintenance of medical skills. Cardiopulmonary (CPR) certification must be renewed annually. Prerequisites: Candidates need First Aid and CPR for the Professional Rescuer or equivalent certification issued through American Red Cross or similar agency. MSC Courses Government Vessels This course is structured as 3 one-week, stand-alone modules. The modules may be taken in any order. Included in the first week are an introduction to the U.S. Military Sealift Command and military vessels, damage control, CBRD (chemical, biological, radiological defense), Helo firefighting and environmental awareness training. The second week features forklift operations, underway replenishment and vertical replenishment. Cargo-handling and crane operations are included in the third week. This course is recommended for AB or FOWT sailing with MSC. Prerequisites: No additional prerequisites Marine Environmental Awareness Marine Environmental Awareness is a oneday, eight-hour course designed for mariners who are employed, or may be employed, on U.S.-flagged MSC vessels in accordance with MSC requirements. This course is designed as a module of the SHLSS Government Vessels Training Program; however, the course can also be used independently. The purpose of the Marine Environment course is to provide the student with an understanding of environmental protection, to include MSC policies regarding compliance with regulations, pollution prevention and spill conservation response readiness. Prerequisites: No additional prerequisites Anti-Terrorism, Level 1 Level I Anti-Terrorism/ Personal Protection Brief is a one-hour course designed for seafarers who are employed, or may be employed on government vessels. In addition, seafarers who are employed, or may be employed on other U.S.- flagged vessels may also attend this course. Level I: Anti-Terrorism/ Personal Protection Brief” is designed to familiarize the students with the fundamental knowledge and skills necessary to protect themselves when traveling abroad, and meets the requirements issued by the Department of Defense in April 1997. This is accomplished exclusively through classroom lecture. Prerequisites: No additional prerequisites Shipboard Damage Control Damage Control is a three-day (21-hour) course designed for mariners who are employed, or may be employed, on U.S.-flagged MSC vessels in accordance with MSC requirements. This course is designed as a module of the SHLSS Government Vessels Training Program; however, the course can also be utilized independently. The purpose of the Damage Control course is to provide the student with an understanding of the specific objectives of damage control and the knowledge and practical experience required for effective damage control operations. This is accomplished through classroom lecture and practical exercises. Prerequisites: No additional prerequisites MSC Individual Small Arms Training and Qualification and MSC Individual Small Arms Sustainment Training and Qualification This 21-hour course meets the standards and content of OPNAVINST 3591.1E Small Arms Training and Qualification and MSC’s Individual Small Arms Training and Qualification and MSC’s Individual Small Arms Sustainment Training and Qualification Course. Prerequisites: At company request, must be a designated member of the shipboard security team Shipboard Helicopter Fire Fighting Team Members This 8-hour course provides tailored team training for mariners who may serve as a member of a ship’s flight deck organization. This course will introduce the mariner to some of the dangers associated with flight deck operations, the equipment and the procedures they will employ when serving as a member of the ship’s flight deck organization. This course will discuss helicopter nomenclature and hazards associated with helicopter operations, classes of fire, personal protective equipment, flight deck fire fighting equipment, helicopter pilot, crew and passenger rescue procedures, helicopter fire suppression and extinguishment procedures and techniques. The mariner will be drilled in the procedures and techniques of pilot rescue and helicopter fire suppression and extinguishment. The mariner will be required to demonstrate proficiency in those procedures and techniques during live fire field exercises. Prerequisites: No additional prerequisites MSC Readiness Refresher This 35-hour course is a refresher that focuses on the assessment of a mariner’s abilities and competence in Marine Environmental Programs, Basic CBR Defense, Damage Control, Helicopter Fire Fighting, and USCG BST. The course is intended for Civil Service Mariners (CIVMARS) and Contract Mariners (CONMARS) who work aboard MSC-contracted ships. Prerequisite: Basic Safety Training and Helicopter Fire Fighting Seafarers LOG 15 12/21/2011 7:38:45 AM �Paul Hall Center Upgrading Course Information The following is the schedule of courses at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md., for the next few months. All programs are geared to improving the job skills of Seafarers and to promoting the American maritime industry. Please note that this schedule may change to reflect the needs of the membership, the maritime industry and—in times of conflict—the nation’s security. Students attending any of these classes should check in the Saturday before their course’s start date. The courses listed here will begin promptly on the morning of the start dates. For classes ending on a Friday, departure reservations should be made for Saturday. Seafarers who have any questions regarding the upgrading courses offered at the Paul Hall Center may call the admissions office at (301) 994-0010. Title of Course Start Date Date of Completion Title of Course Start Date Date of Completion Marine Refrigeration March 10 April 20 Machinist January 21 February 11 February 10 March 2 Pumpman March 24 April 6 Welding January 21 March 3 March 31 April 28 June 2 February 10 March 23 April 20 May 18 June 22 Deck Department Lifeboat January 7 February 4 March 3 March 31 April 28 May 26 June 23 January 20 February 17 March 16 April 13 May 11 June 8 July 6 Able Seaman January 21 May 12 February 17 June 8 STOS March 31 April 13 Fast Rescue Boat May 5 June 23 May 11 June 29 Radar January 21 March 10 May 19 February 3 March 23 June 1 ARPA February 4 March 24 June 2 February 10 March 30 June 8 Radar Renewal February 21 June 25 February 21 June 25 Tank PIC Barge March 10 March 16 Engine Department BAPO February 4 March 31 May 26 March 2 April 27 June 22 FOWT January 7 March 3 April 28 June 23 February 3 March 30 May 25 July 20 Junior Engineer January 21 May 12 March 16 July 6 Marine Electrician January 7 May 5 March 2 June 29 UPGRADING APPLICATION Name ________________________________________________________________________ Address ______________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________ Telephone (Home)_________________________ (Cell)_________________________ Date of Birth __________________________________________________________________ Deep Sea Member o Lakes Member o Inland Waters Member o If the following information is not filled out completely, your application will not be processed. Social Security #_______________________ Book # _________________________________ Seniority_____________________________ Department_____________________________ Home Port____________________________________________________________________ E-mail_______________________________________________________________________ Endorsement(s) or License(s) now held_____________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________ Are you a graduate of the SHLSS/PHC trainee program? o Yes o No If yes, class # __________________________________________________________________ Have you attended any SHLSS/PHC upgrading courses? o Yes o No If yes, course(s) taken____________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________ With this application, COPIES of the following must be sent: One hundred and twenty-five (125) days seatime for the previous year, one day in the last six months prior to the date your class starts, USMMD (z-card) front and back or relevant pages of merchant mariner credential, front page of your union book indicating your department and seniority, qualifying seatime for the course if it is Coast Guard tested, 1995 STCW Certificate, valid SHBP Clinic Card and TWIC. 16 Seafarers LOG 10160_SEAFARERS_Jan_2012.indd 16 Safety Upgrading Courses Advanced Firefighting January 28 February 4 February 25 March 3 May 5 June 2 February 3 February 10 March 2 March 9 May 11 June 8 Basic Firefighting/STCW January 7 February 4 March 3 April 7 May 12 June 23 January 13 February 10 March 9 March 13 May 18 June 29 Medical Care Provider February 4 February 11 March 3 March 10 May 12 June 9 February 10 February 17 March 9 March 16 May 18 June 15 Government Vessels February 25 April 21 June 16 March 2 April 27 June 22 ` Steward Department Serve Safe January 21 April 14 July 7 September 29 January 27 April 20 July 13 October 5 Chief Steward January 7 April 14 July 7 October 13 February 17 May 25 August 17 November 23 Chief Cook These modules start every other week. The year’s first class will start January 7. Galley Operations/Advanced Galley Operations These modules start every Monday. This year’s first class will begin January 3 due to the January 2 holiday. COURSE ____________________________ START DATE _______________ DATE OF COMPLETION _______________________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________________ LAST VESSEL: ___________________________________ Rating: ____________________ Date On: _______________________________ Date Off:____________________________ SIGNATURE ____________________________________ DATE______________________ NOTE: Transportation will be paid in accordance with the scheduling letter only if you present original receipts and successfully complete the course. If you have any questions, contact your port agent before departing for Piney Point. Not all classes are reimbursable.Return completed application to: Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education Admissions Office, P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674-0075; or fax to (301) 994-2189. The Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education is a private, non-profit, equal opportunity institution and admits students, who are otherwise qualified, of any race, nationality or sex. The school complies with applicable laws with regard to admission, access or treatment of students in its programs or activities. 1/12 January 2012 12/21/2011 7:39:04 AM �Welcome Ashore Each month, the Seafarers LOG pays tribute to the SIU members who have devoted their working lives to sailing aboard U.S.-flag vessels on the deep seas, inland waterways or Great Lakes. Listed below are brief biographical sketches of those members who recently retired from the union. The brothers and sisters of the SIU thank those members for a job well done and wish them happiness and good health in the days ahead. DEEP SEA JOHN BARCROFT Brother John Barcroft, 65, became an SIU member in 1964. He initially sailed with Waterman Steamship Corporation. Brother Barcroft was born in Maryland. On two occasions, the deck department member upgraded at the Seafarers-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. Brother Barcroft last worked on the USNS Seay. He calls Baltimore home. JAMES BEAUDRY Brother James Beaudry, 56, signed on with the Seafarers in 1978 while in Piney Point, Md. He originally worked on the Point Julie. In 1982 and 2008, Brother Beaudry took advantage of educational opportunities at the SIUaffiliated school in Piney Point. He most recently sailed aboard the St. Clair. Brother Beaudry worked in both the steward and engine departments. He makes his home in Manistique, Mich. DONALD BOATRIGHT Brother Donald Boatright, 59, joined the SIU in 1978 while in the port of New York. He initially sailed aboard the Delta Peru. Brother Boatright shipped in both the deck and engine departments. In 1996, he attended classes at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. Prior to his retirement, Brother Boatright worked on the Spirit. He lives in Pinole, Calif. ELENA CURLEY Sister Elena Curley, 65, began sailing with the union in 1989. Her first trip was on the Independence. Sister Curley was born in Mexico and worked in the steward department. She upgraded often at the maritime training center in Piney Point, Md. Sister Curley’s final voyage was on the Seabulk Pride. She settled in Kapolei, Hawaii. SAMUEL JOHNSON Brother Samuel Johnson, 67, was born in Puerto Cortes, Honduras. He joined the SIU in 2001 during January 2012 10160_SEAFARERS_Jan_2012.indd 17 the SIU/NMU merger. Brother Johnson shipped in the steward department. He enhanced his skills in 2001 at the Piney Point school. Brother Johnson most recently sailed on the Maersk Tennessee. He makes his home in Houston. LESLIE KLEIN Brother Leslie Klein, 66, became a Seafarer in 1999 while in the port of Wilmington, Calif. His earliest voyage was aboard the Overseas Joyce; his most recent was on the Horizon Tiger. Brother Klein was born in Los Angeles. He sailed primarily in the deck department. In 2001, Brother Klein enhanced his skills at the Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md. He resides in Poulsbo, Wash. TED KOPECKY Brother Ted Kopecky, 66, began his SIU career in 2001 as the NMU was merging into the SIU. The deck department member’s last trip was aboard the Maersk Ohio. Brother Kopecky is a resident of Brooklyn, N.Y. ALLAN LANE Brother Allan Lane, 67, started his SIU career in 2001 as the NMU was merging into the SIU. That same year, Brother Lane visited the Seafarers-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md., to upgrade his skills. He was born in London and sailed in the engine department. Brother Lane’s last voyage was aboard the USNS Maj. Stephen W. Pless. He is a resident of Carson, Calif. WILFRED MAURICE Brother Wilfred Maurice, 71, began sailing with the SIU in 2001. He shipped aboard vessels including the Argonaut and the Maersk Carolina. Brother Maurice attended classes in 2007 at the Paul Hall Center. He worked in the deck department. Brother Maurice lives in Palm Coast, Fla. HUSSEIN SALEH Brother Hussein Saleh, 66, started sailing with the union in 1974. He was initially employed aboard the Newark. Brother Saleh was a member of the stew- ard department. His most recent trip was on the APL Philippines. Brother Saleh was born in Arabia but now calls San Francisco home. STEVEN ZEMEL Brother Steven Zemel, 65, donned the SIU colors in 1967. The engine department member’s first trip was aboard the Robin Kirk. On two occasions, Brother Zemel enhanced his seafaring abilities at the maritime training center in Piney Point, Md. He last worked with Crowley Towing and Transportation of Wilmington. Brother Zemel is a resident of North Hollywood, Calif. INLAND WILLIAM COFIELD Brother William Cofield, 66, was born in Alabama. He joined the SIU in 1991. Brother Cofield mainly worked with G&H Towing Company. He makes his home in Corpus Christi, Texas. NORMAN USEY Brother Norman Usey, 55, signed on with the SIU in 1973. He primarily sailed aboard vessels operated by Crescent Towing & Salvage Company. Brother Usey was born in Louisiana and worked in the deck department. He calls York, Ala., home. ALVIN STEVENSON Brother Alvin Stevenson, 64, became a union member in 1988. He shipped with Red Circle Transport Company for the duration of his career. Brother Stevenson was a member of the steward department. He lives in Biloxi, Miss. GREAT LAKES ROBERT MANKE Brother Robert Manke, 64, started sailing with the SIU in 1980. He originally worked aboard a Michigan Interstate Railway vessel. Brother Manke is a Michigan native. In 2007, he visited the Piney Point school. Brother Manke’s most recent trip was on the Walter J. McCarthy. The engine department member settled in Frankfort, Mich. NATIONAL MARITIME UNION came an NMU member in 1979. His most recent trip to sea was on the Amoco Delaware. Brother Merrick calls Jacksonville Beach, Fla., home. STEPHEN STOUTE Brother Stephen Stoute, 65, began sailing with the NMU in 1967. He was born in Trinidad and now makes his home in Queens Village, N.Y. REGINALD TAYLOR Brother Reginald Taylor, 55, was born in Port Arthur, Texas. He became an NMU member in 1978. Brother Taylor’s most recent voyage was aboard the Jean Lykes. He lives in Houston. ROBERT MERRICK Brother Robert Merrick, 65, be- This Month In SIU History Editor’s note: The following items are reprinted from previous editions of the Seafarers LOG. 1947 SIU Organizational Director Paul Hall announced the signing of a closed shop contract with the American Eastern Steamship Corporation after a 60-day organizing campaign. “In making this announcement, full credit should be given to the SIU volunteer organizers who sailed aboard American Eastern ships and made possible the signing of a contract for this new company,” said Hall. “The fact that it took only 60 days to secure the agreement gives proof to another swell job of organizing done by the rank-and-file Seafarer.” 1958 The SIU’s right to picket the Bull Line was upheld in a decision issued recently by the Supreme Court in Washington. By next week the SIU will be free to resume its strike against the Bull Line at any time. The high court’s action, in effect, affirmed a Circuit Court of Appeals decision two months ago that a District Court injunction issued October 1 “must be set aside.” SIU officials and attorneys hailed this week’s decision by the nation’s highest court as being in full support of peaceful union picketing. It was regarded as a complete vindication of the SIU’s position since the Bull Line strike began. Strike action against the company began last August 19 when the SIU struck the Bull Line terminal in Brooklyn in a wage reopening dispute. 1960 Ground was broken for the new Seafarers building in New Orleans. Mayor de-Lesseps S. Morrison was the principal speaker. He said, “The wonderful growth and progress which the Seafarers International Union has enjoyed in this port has been paralleled by the tremendous development of trade in this port, which has become the second ranking seaport in the United States.” He stated further, “We take pride in the fact that New Orleans particularly in the last 14 years has had the favorable economic, social and political climate which has encouraged the growth of business, industry and such great institutions as the SIU.” New Orleans Port Agent Lindsey J. Williams said, “The universal respect and goodwill enjoyed by Seafarers in this port is a far cry from the conditions prevailing 21 years ago during the formative stages of our union.” He said further, “We are preparing to move into a beautiful new home which we hope will be our permanent center of operations in New Orleans.” 1970 Members of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District have voted overwhelmingly to adopt proposed amendments to the constitution. This marks the first time in almost 10 years that significant changes have been made in the union’s constitution. Three propositions were on the ballot and the union tallying committee reported the following results: on the proposed new constitution itself, the committee reported 2,991 yes and 313 no; on changes on initiation fees, the committee reported 3,079 yes votes and 233 no votes; on a change in the method of paying dues and a termination of the assessments, the committee reported 3,032 yes votes and 281 no votes. Seafarers LOG 17 12/21/2011 7:39:09 AM �Final Departures DEEP SEA JAMES BLANCHARD Pensioner James Blanchard, 70, died August 9. Brother Blanchard joined the SIU in 1964. The deck department member initially shipped on the Commander. Brother Blanchard was born in Mississippi. His final trip was aboard the Honor. Brother Blanchard went on pension in 2006 and called Mobile, Ala., home. JACK DALTON Pensioner Jack Dalton, 85, died July 30. Brother Dalton became a Seafarer in 1945 in the port of New York. He initially sailed aboard the Steel Design. The Pennsylvania native was a member of the deck department. Prior to his retirement in 1982, Brother Dalton worked on the Mt. Vernon. He settled in Galena Park, Texas. GLEN EVANS Brother Glen Evans, 88, passed away June 27. Brother Evans sailed from the port of San Francisco. He was born in the Ellisville, Miss., and worked in the steward department. Brother Evans’ final vessel was the President Madison. He lived in Seattle. JOHN LISTON Pensioner John Liston, 86, passed away August 11. Brother Liston became a union member while in the port of New York. He was a Brooklyn native and continued to call New York home. JAMES LOGAN Pensioner James Logan, 87, died May 28. Brother Logan joined the Marine Cooks and Stewards (MC&S) while in the port of San Francisco. He was born in East Bernard, Texas. Brother Logan sailed in the steward department. He became a pensioner before the 1978 merger of the MC&S into the SIU. Brother Logan made his home in Covington, Ga. ARTHUR LONGUET Pensioner Arthur Longuet, 83, passed away August 4. Brother Longuet first donned the SIU colors in 1946. He initially shipped aboard the Alcoa Puritan. Brother Longuet, who sailed in the deck department, was born in New York. He last worked on the Producer. Brother Longuet went on pension in 1991 and lived in Paramus Borough, N.J. 18 Seafarers LOG 10160_SEAFARERS_Jan_2012.indd 18 JAMES MITCHELL Pensioner James Mitchell, 83, died May 1. Brother Mitchell was a native of Louisiana. He began sailing with the Marine Cooks and Stewards from San Francisco. Brother Mitchel retired prior to the 1978 merger of the SIU and the MC&S. The steward department member was a resident of Richmond, Calif. ROY KIBBE Editor’s note: The following brothers, all former members of the National Maritime Union (NMU), have passed away. Pensioner Roy Kibbe, 91, died June 12. Brother Kibbe was born in Galveston, Texas. He went on pension in 1984. Brother Kibbe settled in Houston. ALBERT SACCO Pensioner Albert Sacco, 87, passed away July 31. Brother Sacco became a Seafarer in 1949 in the port of New York. He initially worked with AH Bull Steamship Company. Brother Sacco, a member of the deck department, was an Illinois native. Prior to his retirement in 1986, one of his last ships was the Global Sentinel. Brother Sacco resided in Cheney, Wash. FRANK SOTO Pensioner Frank Soto, 98, died July 4. He joined the Marine Cooks and Stewards while in San Francisco. Brother Soto was born in Lares, P.R. He was a member of the steward department. Brother Soto began receiving his retirement pay before the 1978 merger of the SIU and the MC&S. He settled in Austin, Texas. BASIL STOLEN Pensioner Basil Stolen, 66, passed away July 10. Brother Stolen became an SIU member in 1968. He initially shipped aboard the Malden Victory. Brother Stolen was born in Michigan and worked in the deck department. He last sailed on the Horizon Anchorage. Brother Stolen retired in 2008 and lived in Normandy Park, Washington. INLAND JAMES DIES Pensioner James Dies, 86, passed away July 7. Brother Dies started his seafaring career in 1952 while in the port of Houston. He sailed in both the deep sea and inland divisions. Brother Dies originally worked with Interocean American Shipping Corporation. He was a Texas native and steward department member. Brother Dies last shipped aboard a Crowley Towing vessel. He called Iowa, La., home. MILITARY SEALIFT COMMAND JAMES WELLS Brother James Wells, 66, passed away May 23. He was born in Louisville, Ky. Brother away April 28. Brother Kam became a pensioner in 1983. He called Pleasant Hill, Calif., home. Wells joined the union in 2006 while in the port of San Francisco. His final voyage was aboard the USNS Leroy Grumman. Brother Wells was a resident of San Diego. NATIONAL MARITIME UNION SOLOMON BRADFORD Pensioner Solomon Bradford, 89, died May 2. Brother Bradford, a native of Louisiana, became a pensioner in 1988. He called San Ramon, Calif., home. MILTON BURWELL Pensioner Milton Burwell, 83, passed away May 30. Brother Burwell was born in New York. He went on pension in 1967. Brother Burwell settled in Cambria Heights, N.Y. EARNEST CALHOUN Pensioner Earnest Calhoun, 78, died June 25. The Alabama-born mariner became a pensioner in 1995. Brother Calhoun was a resident of Mobile, Ala. KEEVIL DALY Pensioner Keevil Daly, 87, passed away June 28. Brother Daly started collecting his retirement compensation in 1987. He lived in Toronto, Ontario. RAFAEL DAVID Pensioner Rafael David, 85, died June 2. Brother David was born in Puerto Rico. He went on pension in 1966 and continued to call Puerto Rico home. HOWARD EDWARDS Pensioner Howard Edwards, 85, passed away June 28. Brother Edwards was a native of Orange, N.J. He retired in 1969. Brother Edwards made his home in Atlanta, Ga. ALBERT FLETCHER Pensioner Albert Fletcher, 82, died July 5. Brother Fletcher was born in Brunswick, Ga. He became a pensioner in 1997. Brother Fletcher settled in Yonkers, N.Y. JOHN FLOWERS Pensioner John Flowers, 82, passed away June 20. Brother Flowers was a Marshall, Texas, native. He started collecting his retirement compensation in 1970. Brother Flowers lived in New Orleans. RICHARD IVES Pensioner Richard Ives, 81, died July 9. Brother Ives was born in Portland, Maine. He retired in 1992 and continued to reside Maine. GEORGE KAM Pensioner George Kam, 90, passed WILLIAM LAZARO Pensioner William Lazaro, 101, passed away May 4. Brother Lazaro was a native of the Philippines. He started collecting his retirement compensation in 1982. Brother Lazaro lived in Marrero, La. JAMES LIDDELL Pensioner James Liddell, 91, died July 6. The Louisiana-born mariner became a pensioner in 1971. Brother Liddell was a resident of Big Bear Lake, Calif. RICHARD LUBNICKI Pensioner Richard Lubnicki, 82, passed away May 6. Brother Lubnicki was born in Scranton, Pa. He went on pension in 1967 and called Dalton, Pa., home. PETER MARTINEZ Pensioner Peter Martinez, 86, died May 28. Brother Martinez was a native of Illinois. He retired in 1996. Brother Martinez made his home in Lakewood, Calif. LEROY MCGEE Pensioner Leroy McGee, 69, passed away July 15. Brother McGee was born in Simmesport, La. He became a pensioner in 2000. Brother McGee settled in Port Arthur, Texas. KONSTANTIN MELNIKOW Pensioner Konstantin Melnikow, 83, died May 30. Brother Melnikow was a Russia native. He started collecting his retirement compensation in 1995. Brother Melnikow lived in Gulfport, Fla. VICTOR MORRIS Pensioner Victor Morris, 79, passed away June 13. Brother Morris, a native of Massachusetts, went on pension in 1993. He was a resident of Dartmouth, Mass. HENRY MOULTRIE Pensioner Henry Moultrie, 78, died June 8. Brother Moultrie was born in Savannah, Ga. He began receiving his pension in 1974. Brother Moultrie continued to live in Savannah. THEO PRADIA Pensioner Theo Pradia, 94, passed away June 22. Born in Cameron, La., he became a pensioner in 1973. Brother Pradia was a resident of Port Arthur, Texas. HENRY REZENDES Pensioner Henry Rezendes, 83, died May 29. Brother Rezendes was a Falmouth, Mass., native. He retired in 1967. Brother Rezendes resided in Providence, R.I. WILLIE ROBINSON Pensioner Willie Robinson, 92, died June 1. Brother Robinson was born in Sylvania, Ga. He began receiving his pension in 1970. Brother Robinson was a resident of Ridgefield Borough, N.J. HAROLD SURILLO Pensioner Harold Surillo, 84, passed away June 7. Brother Surillo was a native of Puerto Rico. He became a pensioner in 1970. Brother Surillo continued to make his home in Puerto Rico. ROBERT SUTTON Pensioner Robert Sutton, 89, died June 19. Brother Sutton was born in Newnan, Ga. He went on pension in 1985 and lived in Port Charlotte, Fla. THOMAS VILLACIS Pensioner Thomas Villacis, 92, passed away June 23. Brother Villacis, a native of Ecuador, began collecting his retirement compensation in 1969. He was a New York resident. HAROLD VOORHIES Pensioner Harold Voorhies, 80, died April 19. Brother Voorhies was a Texas native. He retired in 1968 and called Philadelphia home. TIMOTHY WASH Pensioner Timothy Wash, 87, passed away May 23. Brother Wash was born in Chicago. He became a pensioner in 1972. Brother Wash. settled in Slidell, La. Name Age Chiodo, William 85 DOD May 8 Colon, Rizal 73 June 5 Durand, Marie 87 June 21 Estrada, Ramon 83 June 5 Frank, Albert 86 June 5 Hall, Alberto 100 May 5 LaSalle, Carmelo 85 April 20 Manning, Willard 81 May 4 Morales, Hereido 75 March 22 Moreau, Herman 87 May 21 Panting, Charles 83 May 8 Price, Willie 81 May 24 Pulitano, Joseph 88 May 21 Roberson, Charles 94 May 20 Rodriguez, Pedro 91 June 12 Sabine, Peter 83 April 19 Sanchez, Raul 82 June 9 Sylvester, George 99 April 28 January 2012 12/21/2011 7:39:11 AM �Digest of Shipboard Union Meetings The Seafarers LOG attempts to print as many digests of union shipboard minutes as possible. On occasion, because of space limitations, some will be omitted. Ships’ minutes first are reviewed by the union’s contract department. Those issues requiring attention or resolution are addressed by the union upon receipt of the ships’ minutes. The minutes are then forwarded to the Seafarers LOG for publication. AMERICAN SPIRIT (American Steamship Company), October 31 – Chairman Paul Gohs, Secretary Joyce Sufak, Educational Director Michael Kruse, Deck Delegate Resat Diler, Steward Delegate Saleh Sewileh. Chairman answered questions pertaining to retirement and read rules from the Seafarers Pension Plan guide. A copy of the current contract was requested. Educational director encouraged crew to renew documents in a timely manner; he suggested doing so during winter layup. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Mariners were reminded to be careful of ice on board and on the dock during the colder months. Crew members expressed grief over the passing of Brother James Darden, who used to sail as bosun aboard the American Spirit. Next port: Two Harbors, Minn. Fellow Mariners Honor Late AB John Frey CHARGER (Maersk Line, Limited), October 23 – Chairman Robert Pagan, Secretary Rolando M. Lopez, Educational Director Andrew J. Linares, Deck Delegate David Fridstrom, Engine Delegate Allen Newgen, Steward Delegate Khaled Taffi. Bosun reported a smooth, safe voyage. He went over ship’s itinerary and reminded members to have passports ready for customs and immigration. Crew was asked to shut laundry room door quietly so they would not disturb people sleeping. Steward department was thanked for good food. Secretary reported sanitary inspection went well and thanked crew for keeping food-service areas clean. Seafarers were reminded of laundry procedures. Treasurer stated $720 in ship’s fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. President’s report from the Seafarers LOG was read and discussed. Next port: Los Angeles. Crew members aboard the SS Wright honored the wishes of the late AB John Frey by scattering his ashes at sea Oct. 6, 2011. Brother Frey passed away last January, at age 56. His cremains were committed to the Atlantic at latitude N 44 degrees 34.192 minutes, longitude W 63 degrees 25.831 minutes. The large group photo directly above shows mariners who gathered to honor Brother Frey’s memory. In the smaller group photo at left, Baltimore Port Agent Elizabeth Brown (second from right) delivers the cremains to (from left) Recertified Bosun Tom Moore, AB Nelson Poe and Recertified Bosun Dave Martz, Frey’s cousin, before the Wright started its voyage from Baltimore. Martz, described as more like a brother to Frey, commits the ashes in photo at right. HORIZON HAWK (Horizon Lines), October 31 – Chairman David J. Garoutte, Secretary Mark V. Cabasag, Educational Director Gary M. Dahl, Engine Delegate Steven Benavides. Chairman noted it was a rough trip with the passing of A/E Jack Bell and expressed gratitude to everyone that donated for the floral arrangements. He announced payoff upon arrival in Long Beach, Calif., and commended crew for working safely. Secretary urged those departing the vessel to clean rooms, empty trash and leave keys for next mariners. Crew members were reminded to clean any spills on deck, partly to help prevent falls. Educational director reminded crew to get their time in and take advantage of upgrading at Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md. He also talked about the importance of keeping documents current. No beefs or disputed OT reported. A vote of thanks was given to the steward department for a job well done. Crew thanked bosun for smoked fish throughout trip. Next port: Long Beach, Calif. HORIZON HUNTER (Horizon Lines), October 8 – Chairman Loren E. Watson, Secretary Jennifer K. Jim, Educational Director Jeff Morris. Chairman stated payoff to take place October 8 upon arrival in Long Beach, Calif. He encouraged mariners to check OT and prepayoff documents. He asked crew to leave clean sets of linens for arriving mariners. Members were asked to respect privacy of fellow crew members in regards to email. Secretary read communication about trip tour scenarios aboard PEX and TPI run vessels. She also urged crew to check sailing board prior to leaving vessel. Educational January 2012 10160_SEAFARERS_Jan_2012.indd 19 director encouraged crew to attend classes at the union-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. He said, “The school is a benefit so partake in all that good schooling has to offer you. Take advantage of endorsements necessary for employment aboard military contracted vessels. These are stable jobs in our union and great pay.” Treasurer reported $1,300 in ship’s fund. Fish was purchased in Guam along with movies for crew. Captain is getting BBQ grill and smoker for ship. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew was encouraged to read president’s report in the Seafarers LOG to stay abreast of new events within the union. Recommendations were made regarding pension benefits and retirement requirements. Crew expressed frustration over phone cards not working properly. Suggestions were made pertaining to contract negotiations. Bosun acknowledged steward department for the great food they provided. Next ports: Oakland and Long Beach, Calif. HORIZON PACIFIC (Horizon Lines), October 26 – Chairman Darryl G. Smith, Secretary Robert P. Mosley, Educational Director Julian P. Avila, Deck Delegate Saleh Omar, Engine Delegate Melvin Ratcliff, Steward Delegate Mohamad Shibly. Chairman expressed gratitude to fellow crew members for working safely. Seafarers were reminded to keep documents current and keep noise down while people are sleeping. He requested all crew members departing vessel to clean rooms and supply fresh linens for reliefs. Secretary encouraged members to donate to SPAD (Seafarers Political Activity Donation) and stay up-to-date on union dues. Educational director advised all mariners to enhance skills at the maritime training center in Piney Point, Md. Treasurer stated $237 in cookout fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Bosun read president’s report from Seafarers LOG, and crew members accepted and gave a vote of thanks to President Sacco and his staff. Clarification was requested about getting work shoes from company. Crew thanked steward department for excellent food, clean house and great barbeques. Mariners were reminded to keep noise down while off-duty watchstanders are sleeping. Next ports: Tacoma, Wash., Oakland, Calif., and Hawaii. LIGHTNING (Maersk Line, Limited), October 9 – Chairman Shawn T. Evans, Secretary Ernest Polk, Educational Director Tomas Meret, Deck Delegate Richard Volkart, Engine Delegate Marion Cruzat, Steward Delegate Patricia Geras. Bosun thanked crew for a good trip. He requested that mariners leaving ship supply fresh linens for arriving crew. Secretary reported nice weather and a smooth voyage. He expressed gratitude to fellow crew members for helping keep ship clean. Educational director suggested Seafarers take advantage of courses available at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. No beefs or disputed OT reported. New chairs requested for mess hall. Thanks given to the steward department for excellent food. Next port: Los Angeles. MAERSK CAROLINA (Maersk Line, Limited), October 30 – Chairman Brian K. Fountain, Secretary Dulip Sookhiram, Educational Director Kevin M. Cooper. Chairman thanked everyone for doing their jobs professionally and in a timely manner. He reported another safe trip with no lost-time injuries, which makes 2,618 days. Mariners were reminded to keep garbage room locked in port. Secretary urged crew to read Seafarers LOG to stay up-to-date on information pertaining to the union, benefits and shipping rules. They were also encouraged to contribute to SPAD and reminded that when they do, they are helping themselves as well as their union brothers and sisters. Educational director reminded crew to get their time in and take advantage of upgrading at Piney Point. Treasurer noted $1,601 in ship’s safety fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Steward department thanked deck and engine departments for helping keep house clean. Recommendations were made for next contract negotiations. Next ports: Newark, N.J., Charleston, S.C., and Norfolk, Va. PRESTIGE NEW YORK (Liberty Maritime), October 16 – Chairman Elkanah B. Ladia, Secretary Lionell P. Packnett, Educational Director Timothy J. Brock, Deck Delegate Val Custis, Engine Delegate Rolly Pascua, Steward Delegate Rafael Borja. Chairman announced payoff in Galveston, Texas, on October 27. He reminded members to remove clothes from the laundry room and bring back hangers when not using them. Members were asked to keep lounge and deck areas clean and separate trash. Secretary would like a new meat slicer and microwave. He thanked members for help keeping ship clean. Educational director advised everyone to upgrade at the SIU-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Request was made for dryers to be fixed or replaced. Next ports Panama and Galveston, Texas. SEABULK ARCTIC (Seabulk Interna- tional Inc.), October 26 – Chairman Edward R. McLean, Secretary Alan W. Bartley, Educational Director Reginald R. Hunter, Deck Delegate Mario Baja, Engine Delegate Romel Reyes, Steward Delegate Mario Fernandez. Bosun thanked deck department for a job well done – they have been working hard and everything looks great. He reminded mariners to renew necessary seafaring documents early. He also talked about the importance of making sure pay sheet and OT sheet match before signing pay voucher. Secretary asked for crew to continue helping keep mess hall and lounge clean. Educational director urged mariners to upgrade often at the Piney Point school. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Request was made for new TV in crew lounge and refrigerators in rooms. Captain to check on getting bikes for crew to use for short runs to town. Next port: Port Arthur, Texas. Seafarers LOG 19 12/21/2011 7:39:14 AM �Deadline for 2012 SHBP Scholarships Now Less Than Four Months Away Time rapidly is becoming a factor for Seafarers and dependents who are interested in furthering their education through the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan (SHBP) 2012 Scholarship Program. The application deadline of April 15 now is less than four months away. Devised as a means through which the financial challenges of college and vocational studies can be diminished, the 2012 iteration of the annual SHBP program offers eight awards. Three of these offerings specifically are designated for Seafarers; five have been targeted for spouses and dependents. One of the Seafarers scholarships totals $20,000 and is intended to help defray the costs associated with attending a four-year, college-level course of study. Two other awards are for $6,000 each and are designed as two-year grants for study at a post-secondary vocational school or community college. The remaining five scholarships are for spouses and dependents. Each is worth $20,000. The first step in the application process is to send for the 2012 SHBP Scholarship Program booklet. The package contains eligibility information, procedures for applying for the scholarships and an application form. To obtain a copy of this handout, interested individuals need only complete the form which appears below and return it to the address provided. The packages also are available at SIU halls. Once the scholarship booklet has been received, applicants should check the eligibility criteria to determine if they are eligible to participate. They should also begin collecting and assembling the remainder of the paperwork needed to submit with the full application. All required materials must be received by the SHBP Scholarship Program Office by April 15. Items that need to be incorporated in the final application package include transcripts and certificates of graduation. Letters of recommendation – solicited from individuals who know the applicant’s character, personality and career goals – also should be included as part of the application package. A high-quality photograph and a certified copy of the applicant’s birth certificate are also required and should accompany the package. Seafarers and dependents who previously applied for the scholarship program and were not selected are encouraged to apply again this year, provided they still meet the eligibility requirements. Prior winners also may apply. Please send me the 2012 SHBP Scholarship Program booklet which contains eligibility information, procedures for applying and a copy of the application form. Celebrations on the West Coast SIU Asst. VP Nick Celona (center in group photo above, presenting ship’s wheel) represented the union at the recent dedication of the Joseph P. Mazzola Training Center in San Francisco. The facility is named in memory of an esteemed business agent for Local 38 of the United Association of Journeymen and Apprentices of the Plumbing and Pipefitting Industry (abbreviated as UA). Joseph Mazzola is featured in the portrait in the background. Celona congratulated current UA officials and members and said the training center signals a bright future. Pictured from left to right are Business Agent R.J. Ferrari, Assistant Business Manager Larry Mazzola Jr., Celona, Training Director Steve Mazzola and Curriculum Coordinator Liam Devlin. The other photo features longtime Seafarer Richard Gegenheimer (center) picking up his first pension check at the SIU hall in Oakland, Calif. Congratulating him on his retirement are Patrolman Nick Marrone II (left) and Administrative Assistant Diana Marrone. Name.......................................................................................................................................... Mariner’s Social Security Number....................................................................................................................................... Street Address...................................................................................................................................... City, State, Zip Code ............................................................................................................... Telephone Number ..........( This application is for: ).............................................................................................  Self  Dependent Mail this completed form to: Scholarship Program Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746 Know Your Rights FINANCIAL REPORTS. The Constitution of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU makes specific provision for safeguarding the membership’s money and union finances. The constitution requires a detailed audit by certified public accountants every year, which is to be submitted to the membership by the secretary-treasurer. A yearly finance committee of rank-and-file members, elected by the membership, each year examines the finances of the union and reports fully their findings and recommendations. Members of this committee may make dissenting reports, specific recommendations and separate findings. TRUST FUNDS. All trust funds of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU are administered in accordance with the provisions of various trust fund agreements. All these agreements specify that the trustees in charge of these funds shall equally consist of union and management representatives and their alternates. All expenditures and disbursements of trust funds are made only upon approval by a majority of the trustees. All trust fund financial records are available at the headquarters of the various trust funds. SHIPPING RIGHTS. A member’s shipping rights and seniority are protected exclusively by contracts between the union and the employers. Members should get to know their shipping rights. Copies of these contracts are posted and available in all union halls. If members believe there have been violations of their shipping or seniority rights as contained in the contracts between the union and the employers, they should notify the Seafarers Appeals Board by certified mail, return receipt requested. The 20 Seafarers LOG 10160_SEAFARERS_Jan_2012.indd 20 proper address for this is: Augustin Tellez, Chairman Seafarers Appeals Board 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 Full copies of contracts as referred to are available to members at all times, either by writing directly to the union or to the Seafarers Appeals Board. CONTRACTS. Copies of all SIU contracts are available in all SIU halls. These contracts specify the wages and conditions under which an SIU member works and lives aboard a ship or boat. Members should know their contract rights, as well as their obligations, such as filing for overtime (OT) on the proper sheets and in the proper manner. If, at any time, a member believes that an SIU patrolman or other union official fails to protect their contractual rights properly, he or she should contact the nearest SIU port agent. EDITORIAL POLICY — THE SEAFARERS LOG. The Seafarers LOG traditionally has refrained from publishing any article serving the political purposes of any individual in the union, officer or member. It also has refrained from publishing articles deemed harmful to the union or its collective membership. This established policy has been reaffirmed by membership action at the September 1960 meetings in all constitutional ports. The responsibility for Seafarers LOG policy is vested in an editorial board which consists of the executive board of the union. The executive board may delegate, from among its ranks, one individual to carry out this responsibility. PAYMENT OF MONIES. No monies are to be paid to anyone in any official capacity in the SIU unless an official union receipt is given for same. Under no circumstances should any member pay any money for any reason unless he is given such receipt. In the event anyone attempts to require any such payment be made without supplying a receipt, or if a member is required to make a payment and is given an official receipt, but feels that he or she should not have been required to make such payment, this should immediately be reported to union headquarters. CONSTITUTIONAL RIGHTS AND OBLIGATIONS. Copies of the SIU Constitution are available in all union halls. All members should obtain copies of this constitution so as to familiarize themselves with its contents. Any time a member feels any other member or officer is attempting to deprive him or her of any constitutional right or obligation by any methods, such as dealing with charges, trials, etc., as well as all other details, the member so affected should immediately notify headquarters. EQUAL RIGHTS. All members are guaranteed equal rights in employment and as members of the SIU. These rights are clearly set forth in the SIU Constitution and in the contracts which the union has negotiated with the employers. Consequently, no member may be discriminated against because of race, creed, color, sex, national or geographic origin. If any member feels that he or she is denied the equal rights to which he or she is entitled, the member should notify union headquarters. SEAFARERS POLITICAL ACTIVITY DONATION — SPAD. SPAD is a separate segregated fund. Its proceeds are used to further its objects and purposes including, but not limited to, furthering the political, social and economic interests of maritime workers, the preservation and furthering of the American merchant marine with improved employment opportunities for seamen and boatmen and the advancement of trade union concepts. In connection with such objects, SPAD supports and contributes to political candidates for elective office. All contributions are voluntary. No contribution may be solicited or received because of force, job discrimination, financial reprisal, or threat of such conduct, or as a condition of membership in the union or of employment. If a contribution is made by reason of the above improper conduct, the member should notify the Seafarers International Union or SPAD by certified mail within 30 days of the contribution for investigation and appropriate action and refund, if involuntary. A member should support SPAD to protect and further his or her economic, political and social interests, and American trade union concepts. NOTIFYING THE UNION — If at any time a member feels that any of the above rights have been violated, or that he or she has been denied the constitutional right of access to union records or information, the member should immediately notify SIU President Michael Sacco at headquarters by certified mail, return receipt requested. The address is: Michael Sacco, President Seafarers International Union 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 January 2012 12/21/2011 7:39:16 AM �Dispatchers’ Report for Deep Sea Maersk Recognizes Mariners November 16, 2011 - December 15, 2011 Two more Seafarers have earned cash awards as part of a monthly safety promotion and recognition program run by Maersk Line, Limited. As previously reported, Maersk regularly recognizes mariners who identify potential hazards and take corrective action to prevent injuries. Aboard the USNS Impeccable, SA Ahmed Omar (left in photo above, with Chief Steward Ed Villanda) and Oiler Jeremy Birchfield (right in other photo, with Chief Engineer Tom Matella) recently received the rewards. Thanks to Third Engineer Chris Judice for snapping the photos, and to MDR Brandon Maeda for sending them to the LOG. February & March Membership Meetings Piney Point..........................Monday: February 6, March 5 Algonac...............................Friday: February 10, March 9 Baltimore...........................Thursday: February 9, March 8 Guam.............................Thursday: February 23, March 22 Honolulu............................Friday: February 17, March 16 Houston............................Monday: February 13, March 12 Jacksonville.......................Thursday: February 9, March 8 Joliet.............................Thursday: February 16, March 15 Mobile........................Wednesday: February 15, March 14 New Orleans........................Tuesday: February 14, March 13 New York............................Tuesday: February 7, March 6 Norfolk..............................Thursday: February 9, March 8 Oakland.........................Thursday: February 16, March 15 Philadelphia...................Wednesday: February 8, March 7 Port Everglades.............Thursday: February 16, March 15 San Juan............................Thursday: February 9, March 8 St. Louis.............................Friday: February 17, March 16 Tacoma...............................Friday: February 24, March 23 Wilmington.....*Tuesday: February 21, Monday: March 19 * Wilmington change created by Presidents Day holiday January 2012 10160_SEAFARERS_Jan_2012.indd 21 Port Total Registered All Groups A B C Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS 19 2 4 23 4 14 50 38 3 13 9 36 17 22 2 1 10 37 3 36 343 8 1 6 11 3 4 22 23 5 3 6 18 21 9 2 1 5 11 2 16 177 2 0 0 3 0 0 6 3 1 1 2 4 2 2 0 0 0 2 0 3 31 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS 0 0 6 9 0 8 13 30 5 8 1 11 14 9 3 1 5 12 2 15 152 4 2 5 6 0 5 13 18 4 1 1 10 21 10 2 3 8 13 0 15 141 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS 1 0 3 11 2 9 20 26 1 4 7 18 9 15 2 2 3 17 1 23 174 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS GRAND TOTAL: Total Shipped All Groups A B Deck Department 9 11 1 2 4 10 10 11 3 2 6 4 39 12 25 26 2 4 11 2 9 5 35 21 18 12 13 5 1 5 0 2 11 2 25 9 2 1 19 18 243 164 C Trip Reliefs Registered on Beach All Groups A B C 0 0 0 1 0 0 2 1 1 1 0 1 2 0 0 0 0 4 0 2 15 1 1 2 13 0 0 32 21 1 2 7 19 5 4 4 1 7 7 0 22 149 16 2 11 26 8 29 82 58 6 24 19 67 30 50 7 1 11 61 4 73 585 9 1 8 15 5 8 28 39 7 8 8 33 47 22 4 2 14 29 2 36 325 Engine Department 1 1 5 0 0 2 0 4 4 1 8 2 0 1 1 0 7 2 1 11 6 0 13 21 0 5 1 1 6 1 3 8 1 3 9 8 0 14 12 0 7 4 0 2 3 0 0 1 0 3 10 0 9 10 0 0 1 4 5 9 14 113 104 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 2 0 1 0 5 0 1 5 12 0 3 2 4 3 5 2 0 5 7 0 4 59 4 0 7 11 2 20 22 41 2 13 6 20 21 20 3 1 4 20 5 20 242 3 0 7 10 1 6 19 34 4 3 4 17 37 25 7 4 15 20 5 28 249 2 0 0 2 0 0 2 0 0 1 2 6 2 1 0 0 0 1 1 4 24 2 1 2 4 0 5 3 9 3 0 3 6 7 2 1 0 1 0 4 1 54 Steward Department 0 2 3 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 8 2 0 1 0 0 6 3 0 17 2 0 8 5 1 1 2 0 6 2 0 6 2 0 11 3 0 11 5 0 10 1 0 0 1 0 0 1 0 2 1 0 18 5 0 0 4 0 20 2 1 128 44 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 0 0 1 7 0 3 9 7 1 1 3 7 3 3 1 0 3 10 0 12 71 2 0 4 16 3 15 28 33 1 5 9 31 19 31 4 5 4 26 1 50 287 2 1 3 6 3 6 9 8 1 3 3 8 20 6 0 2 2 8 1 11 103 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 0 1 3 0 0 0 0 0 0 7 3 0 0 0 0 7 2 1 0 2 1 6 0 5 1 0 0 5 0 5 38 7 0 3 7 1 9 18 13 2 3 5 24 21 15 1 11 0 11 1 23 175 Entry Department 4 1 3 1 0 0 2 1 4 2 0 6 0 0 1 5 1 5 5 1 7 10 2 7 2 0 2 1 1 4 2 0 0 10 6 17 19 0 16 9 3 6 1 1 2 25 0 9 1 0 1 3 1 5 0 0 0 2 3 12 105 21 107 4 1 0 1 0 2 1 7 2 0 0 5 8 4 1 30 0 0 0 2 69 0 0 0 1 0 1 3 2 1 1 0 4 2 1 1 1 0 1 0 4 23 3 0 0 0 0 7 5 4 0 2 3 14 1 7 0 0 1 12 1 14 74 10 3 6 15 2 14 32 33 0 9 8 54 42 29 2 4 0 23 2 37 325 14 3 4 8 1 8 13 23 2 3 8 13 52 15 1 6 3 7 0 28 212 707 547 151 88 302 1,188 1,002 305 505 419 2 0 0 5 0 0 8 5 1 1 4 6 8 5 1 0 1 5 0 10 62 Seafarers LOG 21 12/21/2011 7:39:19 AM �Paul Hall Center Classes Unlicensed Apprentice Water Survival Class 753 - The following individuals (above, in alphabetical order) completed this course Nov. 25: Jeffrey Angeles, Daniel Avery, David Belle, Gary Congden Jr., Oscar Cordero, Rio Cuellar, Micah Dela Cruz, Matthew Dugan, Jonamie Encarnacion-Rivera, Roy Frett, Jacob Gawne, Jose Gonzalez Del Valle, Jason Horn, Mason Melland, Mohamed Mohamed, Joshua Moton, Matthew Schmitz, Scott Schneider, Ricky Shumuck, Edward Smigielski, Ryan Taylor, and Justin Wilson. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Radar Observer – Seven upgraders finished this course Nov. 4. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Steven Blair, Brandon Braam, Timothy DeWine, Kenney Gastor, Charlie Harrera, Arthur Ladd and Ray Madrio. ARPA – Six upgraders completed their requirements in this course Nov. 10. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Steven Blair, Brandon Braam, Timothy DeWine, Charles Herrera, Arthur Ladd and Roy Madrio. Welding – Ten upgraders finished this course Nov. 18. Completing their requirements and graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Chris Ceyzyk, William Coffy, Daniel Dario, Marcus Gramby, Thomas Hawks, Dewayne Jacobs, Douglas McLaughlin, Bryan Page, Jonathan Scalsky and Peter Seifert. Class Instructor Buzzy Andrews is standing third from right. Government Vessels – The following individuals (above, in alphabetical order) graduated from this course Nov. 11: Mike Adorno, Antonio Anderson, Michael Beard, Kyle Bennett, Mario Bothelho, Tekeisha Brown, Vincent Burton, Autumn Cole, Ryan Crowell, Marc Costley, Bannacke Figueroa, Bobbie Gibbs, Timothy Heffernan, Joseph Hernandez, Dustin Hutchins, Slethvana Jules, Brion Lanata, David Leader, Clifton Medley III, Diani Melendez, William Mercer, Gary Newbegin Jr., Michael Robinson and Roderick Thomas. Their instructor, Stan Beck, is standing far right. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Vessel Familiarization – The following individuals (above, in alphabetical order) finished this course Nov. 25: Carmelo Calderon, Seadon Gastaldo, Bill Hunt, Hamza Jinah, Bonnie Kropolinsky-Hinkle, Todd Lander, Ryan Lindsoe, Lucas McDonald, Yousef Mohamed, Robert Neff, Patric Rieke, Jorge Roman, Ervin Sadler, Corey Sanders, Ben Smith, Freddie Taylor and Joshua Weiner. Ethan Evans, their instructor, is at far right. Junior Engineer – Two classes of upgraders completed their requirements in this course Dec. 16. Graduating (right, in alphabetical order) were: Aristeo Aquino, Jonathyn Bland, Tyesha Boyd, Prentice Conley, James Corprew, Odilio Evora, Todd Favaza, Corey Hann, Wilbert Hinton, Kevin Johnson, Jorge Lawrence, Larry Locke Jr., Douglas Maravelias, Billie Marshall, Patrick Milton, Pierre Norwood, Dmitri Petchenyov, George Pobee, Winston Rankin, Aaron Velunta, Kareem Walters, Nicole Walton, Lee Roy Wright and Rickey Yancey (Note: Not all are pictured.) 22 Seafarers LOG 10160_SEAFARERS_Jan_2012.indd 22 January 2012 12/21/2011 7:39:27 AM �Paul Hall Center Classes BST – Eighteen upgraders graduated from this course Nov. 18. Finishing their requirements (left, in alphabetical order) were: Emmanuel Assafuah, Wendell Brown, Leander Garrett, Melvin Grayson Sr., Terrance Jones, Tina Knox, David Pacheco, Orlando Pajarillo, John Plakas, Jose Quinones, Videlio Roman, Ede Sinette, Gary Torres, Jonathan Tucker, Richard Weaver, Richard Wilson, Michele Woodley and Robert Wright. Class Instructor Wayne Johnson is at far left. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Important Notice Students who have registered for classes at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, but later discover - for whatever reason- that they can’t attend, should inform the admissions department immediately so arrangements can be made to have other students take their place. Basic & Advanced Fire Fighting – Nineteen upgraders graduated from this course Nov. 25. Completing their requirements (right, in alphabetical order) were: Steven Corachan, Eugene Davis Jr., Christopher Devonish, Mark Downey Sr., Lisa Harewood-Francis, Arthur Ladd, Juan Machado Gomez, Travis Moody, Kevin Moore, Courtney Price, Allan Rogers, Louis Santiago, Thomas Swayne Jr., Robert Taylor, Jesse Turner, Javier Valencia, Todd Williams, Kareim Wright and Christopher Zacucha. Joe Zienda, their instructor, is at the far left. Specially Trained Ordinary Seaman – Eleven upgraders graduated from this course Nov. 10. Completing their requirements (above, in alphabetical order) were: Nofoalii Alaga, Alvin Alcasid, Emmanuel Assafualt, Sean Hughes, Antonio Jones, Daniel Linkletter, James May, Kamal Meawad, Luis Ramos-Rosa, Kelsey Shaver and James Washington. Class Instructor Stan Beck is at far left. BST (Hawaii) – The following individuals (above, in alphabetical order) finished this course Oct. 29 at the Seafarers Training Facility in Barbers Point, Hawaii: Christpher Ames, Seika Arakawa, Annie Bevins, Heather Butler, Christopher Diaz - Cobo, Robert Paul Easterly, Robert Estes, Daniel Gardner, William Hutto, Kcee Keiki, Allysun Knapp, Ashley Lenz, Kaitlin McKinley, Randy Nielsen, Deija Perez, Christopher Quail, Christopher Ridgway, Charles Seeley, Nicole Stevens and Brenen Burningham. January 2012 10160_SEAFARERS_Jan_2012.indd 23 Marine Electrician – The following individuals (above, in alphabetical order) completed their requirements and graduated from this course Nov. 26: Antuan Barnes, Davon Brown, Patrick Devlin, Joseph Jacobs, Joshua Johnson, Adam Mliczewski, David Quade and Lamont Robinson. Class Instructor Jay Henderson is standing at the far right. (Note: Not all are pictured.) BST (Hawaii) Sixteen individuals graduated from this course Nov. 5 at the Seafarers’ Hawaii-based traiing facility. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Andrew Haile, Christopher Holmes, Joshua Vela, Felicia Rosales, Frances Israel, Nathan Boese, Joseph Perrin, Stephanie Persaud, Courtney Calhoun, Ryland Epps III, James McAfoose, Maria Ducoff, Kamron Hart, Ivan Flores, Janelle Downs and Dawn Male. Seafarers LOG 23 12/27/2011 6:47:35 AM �Volume 74, Number 1 January 2012 SHBP Scholarship Info Page 20 Contractual Gains, New Tonnage Highlight 2011 In some ways, 2011 mirrored 2010 for the SIU when it came to persevering through a rocky economy. As in the previous year, the union in 2011 bucked the national trend by securing numerous collective bargaining agreements calling for wage increases while maintaining benefits. The SIU also welcomed new tonnage in the domestic and international commercial trades and in the military sector. Concurrently, the union remained extremely active in the fight to preserve and build upon pillars of the industry, including the Jones Act, cargo preference and the Maritime Security Program. Cargo preference in particular was in the congressional crosshairs last year, as legislators scrambled to make massive budget cuts. The SIU also continued working to combat piracy, an ongoing scourge that not only threatens individual safety but also a significant part of the world’s economy. Seafarers remained active aboard U.S. military support ships, backing our troops wherever and whenever needed, including in Operation Enduring Freedom. And, the union unveiled a major upgrade to its website. Those and other newsworthy items are included in the following recap of 2011. New/Retained Tonnage Throughout the year, there was no shortage of new tonnage entering the SIU-crewed fleet. Similarly, the union retained jobs on a number of ships thanks to government operating agreements that were secured by Seafarerscontracted companies. Very early in the year, Crescent Towing added the second in a series of three new Zdrive tugboats, the J.K. McLean. In mid-February came a much-anticipated announcement covering eight fast sealift ships and two telemetry vessels, all of which remained with the SIU. Interocean American Shipping (IAS) won contracts for the Pacific Collector, Pacific Tracker, Altair and Bellatrix; Ocean Shipholdings was awarded the Algol and Capella; and Keystone Shipping became the operator of the Regulus, Pollux, Denebola and Antares. Around the same time, Pasha Hawaii Transport Lines ordered a new roll-on/roll-off vessel that’s slated for delivery in 2012; and, the U.S. Military Sealift Command (MSC) took delivery of the USNS Washington Chambers, the 11th in a series of 14 dry-cargo/ ammunition ships (abbreviated as T-AKE) crewed in the unlicensed positions by members of the SIU Government Services Division. April kicked off with MSC’s announcement that Maersk Line, Limited (MLL) won contracts to operate the prepositioning ships USNS Roy Wheat and USNS Fred Stockham. Two weeks later, the T-AKE USNS William McLean was delivered at NASSCO shipyard The Navy’s T-AKE program rolled on, including the launch of the USNS William McLean. 10160_SEAFARERS_Jan_2012.indd 24 in San Diego (a facility that employs union workers). Before the month ended, Aker Philadelphia Shipyard – also a union-contracted yard – delivered the tanker Overseas Tampa to Overseas Shipholding Group (OSG). Maersk was in the news again around midsummer when the company won separate bids to operate five prepositioning ships (USNS Bobo, Button, Lopez, Lummus and Williams) and an ice-strengthened tanker (Maersk Peary). In early August, Waterman Steamship won a separate bid to operate an “ice class” cargo ship – the MV Federal Patroller, which reflagged under the Stars and Stripes. Later that month, Crowley Maritime accepted the last articulated tug-barge (ATB) in its 650 series: the Vision/650-10. In mid-September, the Navy christened the USNS Spearhead, which is the first of 10 highspeed vessels signaling job opportunities for SIU CIVMARS and private-sector Seafarers. November brought more good news concerning shipboard jobs and job security as Maersk, in conjunction with Rickmers-Linie (America), launched two heavy-lift ships that reflagged American (Maersk Illinois and Maersk Texas), while Crowley christened its largest and fastest ATB – the Legacy/750-1, first in its class. Also, T-AKE 13, the USNS Medgar Evers, was christened in San Diego, and IAS received a new agreement to continue operating the SIU-crewed SBX-1. The year wound down with news that Keystone would operate the prepositioning ships USNS Kocak, Obregon and Pless, once again signaling job retention for SIU members. Contracts New collective bargaining agreements were approved at numerous SIU-contracted companies, including NY Waterway, Penn Maritime, Starlight Marine, and Brusco Tug & Barge. Contracts also were reached at Great Lakes Towing, American Steamship, Key Lakes, Key Lakes II, Key Lakes IV, Port City Steamship, Port City Marine, Inland Lakes Management, and Erie Sand and Gravel. While the respective lengths and details vary, all of the pacts call for wage increases and maintain benefits. In the Government Services Division, crews enthusiastically approved a five-year agreement with the National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) covering 19 ships, while significant progress continued in negotiations for the Civilian Marine Personnel Instruction (CMPI) 610. Finally, Seafarers approved a one-year extension of the standard freightship and tanker agreements. Rescues, Recognition, Support SIU-contracted companies and individual Seafarers were recognized for safe operations, and union members also were involved in rescues at sea as well as planned humanitarian missions. Performing rescues were the crews of the Horizon Producer, USNS John Ericsson and Sealand Comet. Many other SIU-crewed ships SIU President Michael Sacco (standing), other union officials and rank-and-file members had opportunities throughout the year to welcome new tonnage into the Seafarerscontracted fleet. This photo, also featuring MLL President and CEO John Reinhart (left) and Norfolk Mayor Paul Fraim, was taken at a ceremony for the newly acquired tanker Maersk Peary. took part in military exercises, and CIVMARcrewed vessels helped in the relief mission to tsunami-stricken Japan (Operation Tomodachi). The USNS Comfort finished a five-month deployment called Continuing Promise, during which the hospital ship visited nine countries and provided medical assistance to nearly 70,000 people. The U.S. Navy presented a safety award to the hybrid crew of the submarine tender Emory S. Land, while some two-dozen SIU-contracted companies earned safety recognition from the Chamber of Shipping of America. Politics and Piracy The union continued its efforts, both in U.S. and international forums, to reduce and ultimately eliminate the scourge of piracy. Political action is a key part of this ongoing struggle, as is the “Save Our Seafarers” campaign, launched early last year. Joining with many allies from throughout the U.S. maritime industry, the union rallied to help prevent larger cuts to food aid, and also objected to controversial waivers of the Jones Act. The latter moves helped spur legislation aimed at ensuring that every reasonable effort is made to identify qualified, available American-flag tonnage. Credible studies reinforced the importance of the Jones Act and cargo preference laws, while the second maritime industry “Sail-In” on Capitol Hill successfully delivered the industry’s message to new and long-serving legislators alike. The SIU joined with other unions in blasting the maritime administrator for inexplicably accepting and releasing a report that the unions said undermined the agency’s very mission. And, in a story largely associated with 2010 but which carried into January 2011, the non-partisan National Commission on the BP Deepwater Horizon Oil Spill and Offshore Drilling confirmed (yet again) that the Jones Act did not prevent foreign vessels with the cleanup. (Editor’s note: Neither the report, nor many other credible statements and findings consistent with it, stopped a few publications from falsely blaming the Jones Act anyway, later in the year.) Other Headlines It was another very active year for the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center and its Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship. Besides conducting classes year-round for upgraders and apprentices, the school hosted both an International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF) Women’s Leadership Conference, and the fortieth meeting of the school’s advisory board. It also added new equipment for the GMDSS course and continued working on a major waterfront restoration project, among other improvements. In conjunction with the union, the school formally submitted comments on the Manila Amendments to the STCW Convention as well as on other subjects. In June, the union launched a revamped version of www.seafarers.org featuring a members-only section with an array of information. The Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan (SHBP) awarded $132,000 in scholarships to members and dependents. Finally, the SIU remained active in national and international labor organizations, including the ITF and the AFL-CIO. Among many other activities, the union participated in a number of “We Are One” rallies across the country and also helped secure a major legislative victory on Election Day by assisting in the defeat the anti-worker Issue 2 in Ohio. Seafarers across the country stood up for the rights of all workers, and in particular those of public-sector workers who’ve been under political attack. These members gathered for a demonstration in Tacoma, Wash. 12/21/2011 7:39:39 AM � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Seafarers Log Issues 2010-2019 Description An account of the resource Volumes LXXII-LXXXI of the Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Seafarers Log Digital Copies Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 2010-2019 Document A resource containing textual data. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre text. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource January 2012 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES KEYSTONE LANDS DOD CONTRACT TO OPERATE 2 PREPOSITIONING SHIPS SIU RETAINS JOBS ABOARD KOCAK, PLESS, OBREGON SEAFARERS-CONTRACTED COMPANIES GARNER ENVIRONMENTAL AWARDS SAFE OPERATIONS RECOGNIZED AT ANNUAL CSA EVENT SIU JOBS SECURE WITH FINAL PREPO AWARD USNS CESAR CHAVEZ, FINAL T-AKE SHIP, SCHEDULED FOR 4TH-QUARTER 2012 DELIVERY HOUSE APPROVES PRO-MARITIME BILLS BILLS AIM TO EASE TWIC RENEWAL TSA ANNOUNCES SOME CARDS ARE IMPROPERLY ENCODED GREAT LAKES SHIPYARDS WELCOME BUSY WINTER MACHINISTS INK FOUR-YEAR LABOR AGREEMENT WITH BOEING U.S. -FLAG INDUSTRY SECURES TWO KEY WINS SCHOOL COMMENTS ON PROPOSED INSPECTIONS OF TOWING VESSELS SECURITY COUNCIL CALLS FOR GLOBAL RESPONSE TO PIRACY USNS SAFEGUARD ASSISTS IN JAPAN SIU CIVMARS HELP WELCOME LOCALS ABOARD FOR TOURS OAKLAND HALL HOSTS TRADITIONAL GATHERING SEAFARERS, GUESTS ASSEMBLE FOR 21ST ANNUAL THANKSGIVING FEAST CONTRACTUAL GAINS, NEW TONNAGE HIGHLIGHT 2011 Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Seafarers Log Digital Copies Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 01/01/2012 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Newsprint Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context Vol. 74, No. 1 http://www.seafarerslog.org/archives/files/original/878724cbf232be40ca2e46de3e3b31e6.pdf ef0d987c1d059969f273b51c25435145 PDF Text Text Volume 74, Number 2 February 2012 Maersk Illinois Joins SIU Fleet Heavy-Lift Ship Means New Jobs for Seafarers The SIU closed out 2011 by welcoming the heavy-lift ship Maersk Illinois (right) into the union-contracted fleet. The Maersk Line, Limited vessel reflagged under the Stars and Stripes Dec. 30 in Mobile, Ala. Pictured aboard the ship (below) are Seafarers (front, from left) AB Ronald Poole, GVA Fortune McCants, Electrician Eugene Davis, QMED Julian Avila, AB Alvin Clark, QMED Peggy Wilson, Chief Steward Larry Ewing, ACU Leroy Jenkins, (back) AB Brian Gauntt, STOS Christopher Allen, STOS Adolfo Figueroa and Bosun Dave Coleman. A second heavy-lift ship, the Maersk Texas, is slated to reflag American in March. Page 3. Ocean Titan Pulls Off Dramatic Sea Rescue Overcoming extremely rough nighttime weather and other challenges, SIU members aboard the Ocean Titan helped save the lives of seven foreign mariners whose vessel quickly sank in the Bay of Biscay on Dec. 9. Seafarers including Bosun Magdy Balat (wearing ball cap and shaking hands with the captain of the sunken vessel) are pictured with the survivors. Page 4 Seafarers Brighten Holidays For U.S. Military Personnel SIU members in Tacoma, Wash., once again stepped up for the annual Santa’s Castle toy drive, which benefits United States military families. Seafarers donated new toys worth more than $5,000. Loading the goodies at the hall are AB Marvin Kelly (facing camera), AB Gerret Jarman (far left) and many others. Holiday philanthropy also was alive and well aboard the USNS Dahl, Global Sentinel and at various SIU-contracted companies. Page 6. TWIC and STCW News Page 5 10162_FEB_2012_LOG_X.indd 1 Scholarship Info Page 11 Tax Tips for 2011 Pages 12-14 1/30/2012 11:22:05 AM �President’s Report Jobs Well Done, at Sea and Ashore Seafarers don’t regularly end up in the news, but there have been a few well-earned exceptions lately, and those stories reflect our members’ spirit, generosity and professionalism. As reported throughout this edition (and in some commercial publications as well), a number of SIU members from the USNS Dahl, Global Sentinel and the Tacoma area cheerfully pitched in for annual toy donations so they could brighten the holidays for others. Even though this type of activity is nothing new for Seafarers, and although they certainly don’t participate with any expectation of publicity, I think our brothers and sisters deserve the recognition. And I’m particularly proud that they once again made it a point to donate to American military families, in addition to other recipients. In contrast to the relative calm of holiday philanthropy, Seafarers on the Ocean Titan helped perform a difficult nighttime rescue in very rough Michael Sacco weather. Kudos to them and to the officers, from the Seafarers-affiliated AMO, for upholding the finest traditions of the Brotherhood of the Sea as they saved the lives of seven foreign seamen. It’s worth noting that every one of the SIU members aboard the Ocean Titan during the rescue has trained at the union-affiliated Paul Hall Center, located in Piney Point, Md. The school remains vital in preparing Seafarers to handle whatever comes their way at sea, whether routine or, like in the recent case of the Ocean Titan, extreme. Again, congratulations to everyone who was involved. Lessons from Tragic Accident It’s at least somewhat ironic that the fatal grounding of the Costa Concordia is shedding light on the decades-old problem of so-called flags of convenience, also known as runaway flags. The irony is that this particular ship wasn’t an FOC. Nevertheless, this tragic accident has opened Congress’ eyes to take a broader look into the cruise-ship industry. And suddenly, the general public in the United States is waking up to the fact that most cruise ships operating in this country are indeed sailing under runaway flags, with the notable exception of the SIU-crewed NCL America vessel Pride of America, based in Hawaii. Congressional hearings are scheduled to examine safety in the industry. There may be some cynicism about those hearings – in this industry, tragedy inevitably is followed by federal review and even more regulations, some of which have dubious effects – but I believe this scrutiny is warranted. If nothing else, it’s positive for our industry – and for safety – when CNN and other news outlets properly identify the FOC sham. Maybe this can be a first step toward raising the bar throughout the industry. As I’ve said many times in the past, a professionally trained mariner is the key to crew AND passenger safety! Takes a 4-Letter Word to be Heard In this election year for the White House, it is more important than ever for the SIU to remain politically active – not just at the federal level, but at every point of government. We all know that the maritime industry is heavily regulated, so our livelihoods depend on electing people who will support the U.S. Merchant Marine. Grassroots action takes many forms, and our capacity to mobilize for pro-maritime candidates remains a vital strength. So too is our financial support of those candidates, and that is where the union’s voluntary fund, the Seafarers Political Activity Donation (SPAD), comes into play. I know times are tough, but your support of SPAD is hugely important this year (and beyond). If you already contribute, I thank you for doing so. If you haven’t signed up, please consider it. We all know elections cost money, and SPAD helps make sure our voices are heard. Volume 74, Number 2 February 2012 The SIU online: www.seafarers.org The Seafarers LOG (ISSN 1086-4636) is published monthly by the Seafarers International Union; Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU, AFLCIO; 5201 Auth Way; Camp Springs, MD 20746. Telephone (301) 899-0675. Periodicals postage paid at Southern Maryland 20790-9998. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to the Seafarers LOG, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. Communications Director, Jordan Biscardo; Managing Editor/Production, Jim Guthrie; Assistant Editor, Paddy Lehane; Photographer, Harry Gieske; Administrative Support, Misty Dobry. Copyright © 2012 Seafarers International Union, AGLIWD. All Rights Reserved. The Seafarers International Union engaged an environmentally friendly printer for the production of this newspaper. 2 Seafarers LOG 10162_FEB_2012_LOG_X.indd 2 SIU, ITF Assist Fisher Crew Swift action by the SIU and International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF) officials made a difficult situation a little better for an SIU crew who were prevented from going ashore over the holidays. SIU Secretary-Treasurer and ITF Seafarers’ Section Chair David Heindel and another ITF-affiliated union played an integral part in trying to fix the situation for Seafarers aboard the M/V Maj. Bernard F. Fisher. Pulling into port at Sao Francisco do Sul, Brazil, the crew was looking forward to relaxing, taking in the sights, and maybe doing some last-minute shopping for their families back home for the holidays. However, Capt. Jeremy Allen was informed that because of a legal issue (unrelated to this specific vessel or crew), the mariners would be forced to stay on the ship for nearly two weeks. The Brazilian government has a new policy that doesn’t allow foreign mariners to come ashore unless they have proper visas. Certain visas are waived if the ship is registered in a country that is a signatory to the Seafarers’ Identity Documents Convention that was drafted by the International Labor Organization (ILO C-185). The agreement essentially gives reciprocity to all signatory nations by letting their mariners take shore leave without having to go through a separate, and more time-consuming, visa process. The U.S. has so far refused to sign the treaty, citing security concerns. Following the 9/11 attacks, the U.S. asked the ILO to revise the then-current convention on seafarer documents (ILO C-108) to facilitate a more secure credential with biometric identifiers so the U.S. could identify mariners entering the country. The ILO, with assistance from world governments, labor organizations and shipowner groups, agreed to fast-track the re- Crew members are pictured with representatives from the Brazilian maritime workers union, SINDMAR. vision. Fifteen months later the revised convention was adopted and became known as ILO C-185. The Bush Administration didn’t support the new convention because it required ratifying nations to allow seafarers shore access without a visa. However, many argue that this lack of support was unwarranted because the U.S. requires a 96-hour ship arrival notice to vet crew list for potential terrorists anyway. The fact that the U.S. hasn’t ratified ILO C-185 has created numerous problems for the everyday mariner, including the crew of the Fisher. Because the crew wasn’t allowed off the ship, communication with their families at home during the holidays was very difficult. Additionally, Captain Allen was forced to miss his grandfather’s funeral because he couldn’t be relieved of command of the vessel. These events caught the attention of the SIU leadership, including Heindel, who quickly took action to make sure that the crew’s stay in port was as comfortable as possible. Heindel made several phone calls to representatives of the Brazilian maritime workers union, Sindicato Nacional dos Oficiais da Marinha Mercante (SINDMAR), and asked for assistance on behalf of the SIU members and others re- stricted to the ship. In an example both of the international solidarity in the labor movement and the benefits of ITF affiliation, SINDMAR representatives worked quickly and got the crew access to cell phones to call home. “I’d like to thank our Brazilian colleague for their efforts in making the crew’s stay as enjoyable as possible even though they couldn’t get shore leave,” said Heindel. The unfortunate circumstance that the crew of the Fisher dealt with is just one example of the problems associated with the U.S. government’s failure to ratify ILO C-185. And, according to Heindel and other maritime labor officials, it is one that needs to be quickly addressed to prevent these problems for others in the future. The Obama Administration has indicated that ILO C-185 is of high priority for consideration by the U.S., but the initiative has not made much progress to date. “The U.S. government needs to seriously consider ILO C-185 ratification so these types of situations don’t happen again,” said Heindel. “American and foreign sailors should be able to enjoy shore leave and not be forced to stay aboard during port calls simply because of politics or short-sightedness. What happened to our members aboard the Fisher should be the last example of this restrictive practice.” IMO Sees Progress in Anti-Piracy Campaign Significant progress in the international community’s ongoing crusade against piracy was realized during the past 12 months, according to a recent release by the International Maritime Organization (IMO). At the end of a year in which the World Maritime Day theme of “Piracy: orchestrating the response” has been central to the work of IMO, the organization reported progress and cautions optimism even while pointing to a still-severe problem. According to the IMO, recently compiled statistics show that the number of ships and seafarers held captive by Somali pirates declined from a peak of 33 and 733 in February 2011 to 13 and 265, respectively, by the start of December 2011. Similarly, reported attacks declined from a high of 45 monthly in January 2011 to 14 for the month of November 2011; and the proportion of successful attacks was slashed from 20 percent in January 2011 to seven percent in November 2011. Throughout the past year, most of the IMO’s antipiracy political activities were channeled through the United Nations Security Council. The agency reported “improvements to the accessibility and distribution of IMO guidelines and industry best management practice guidance; steps were taken to ensure that ships’ crews are aware of how to access naval protection and implement effectively the preventive, evasive and defensive measures recommended by IMO and the industry. The organization also addressed the issue of carriage of privately contracted armed security personnel aboard ships and developed guidelines on the subject, involving, in this particular instance, flag, port and coastal states.” Additionally, the IMO pointed to greater levels of coordination among navies, improved sharing of information, and the start of construction of an antipiracy training center in Djibouti as being among the “significant, tangible steps towards building regional capability to counteract pirate activities.” The SIU remains active in this effort both as an individual union and as an affiliate of the International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF). Communication is part of the effort, and in that vein, SIU SecretaryTreasurer David Heindel, who also serves as chair of the ITF’s Seafarers’ Section, contacted the IMO late last year. Heindel in his Nov. 14 correspondence addressed among other issues the grave problem of piracy with particular respect to the massive impact it has on all mariners and their families. In part, Heindel’s letter said: “The pirates are becoming more aggressive and, for some nations’ seafarers, the payment of a ransom does not guarantee or secure their release. Instead, they continue to be held to try to coerce and intimidate that State to release captured pirates. “As representatives of seafarers globally, we would urge that you encourage the United Nations Security Council to create the political resolve for governments to take the decisive measures which are necessary to protect the lives of the seafarers and the global economy, which depends on them.” In a Dec. 6 response to Heindel, B. Lynn Pascoe, IMO under-secretary-general for political affairs, said, “The secretary-general shares your concerns. In his report to the Security Council … the secretary-general specifically highlighted the plight of seafarers being held hostage by pirates in Somalia, and brought to the attention of the Security Council the increased level of violence being used in pirate organizations to expand initiatives that help relieve the suffering of captive mariners and others exposed to the trauma of a pirate attack.” Continuing, Lynn’s letter said, “The Security Council, in its resolution … strongly condemned the continuing practice of hostage-taking by suspected pirates operating off the coast of Somalia, expressed serious concern at the inhuman conditions hostages face in captivity, recognized that adverse impact on the families, called for the immediate release of all hostages, and noted the importance of cooperation between Member States on the issue of hostage-taking and the need for the prosecution of suspected pirates for taking hostages.” IMO Secretary-General Efthimios E. Mitropoulos stated, “Although we should welcome the good news of the falling numbers of ships and seafarers falling in the hands of pirates … there is still a lot of work to be done. Even one seafarer at the hands of pirates, is one too many….” February 2012 1/30/2012 11:22:16 AM �AB Ronald Poole (left) and Bosun Dave Coleman are part of the first SIU crew to sail aboard the Maersk Illinois. SIU Welcomes New Jobs Aboard Maersk Illinois Second Heavy-Lift Vessel, Maersk Texas, Also Slated to Flag In One of the newest additions to the SIUcrewed fleet, the heavy-lift ship Maersk Illinois, reflagged under the Stars and Stripes in Mobile, Ala., during the last week of 2011. Both the Illinois and sister ship Maersk Texas–scheduled to reflag U.S. in mid-March–signal new jobs for Seafarers. The Illinois loaded its first Americanflag-impelled cargo right after the reflagging was completed Dec. 30, and then sailed for Ghana. “This is an excellent development for our union,” stated SIU Vice President Contracts George Tricker. “Additionally, it’s a benefit to national security, in part because these new ships will help maintain a pool of well-trained U.S. mariners The newly reflagged ship sailed from Mobile, Ala., in late December. who can crew America’s military support ships.” SIU-contracted Maersk Line, Limited (MLL) acquired the two ships in September 2011. They will operate under the banner of Maersk-Rickmers U.S. Flag Project Carrier (Maersk-Rickmers), a partnership formed by MLL and Rickmers-Linie (America). “We are pleased to see this reflagging process completed, allowing us to introduce our modern ship and bring new value to the U.S. flag project cargo market,” said Dave Harriss, director of ship management and chartering at MLL, following the flagin of the Illinois. “We are now looking forward to bringing the Maersk Texas into the U.S.-flag fleet as we continue to build the service.” The Maersk Illinois is 485 feet long and can carry 20,000 cubic meters of cargo. It is equipped with two onboard cargo cranes with a combined maximum lift of 480 metric tons. The 19,600 DWT ship “is ideally suited for handling of a wide variety of heavy and bulky cargo such as generators, locomotives, wind and gas turbines, hazardous materials and more,” according to the operating company. The multi-purpose vessel is expected to make port calls around the globe. In a separate development, approxi- mately two weeks before the Illinois arrived in Mobile, the Chamber of Shipping of America (CSA) announced that MLL “has been unanimously elected to membership.” Joseph J. Cox, president of the CSA, said, “We are very pleased to have a quality operator like Maersk Line, Limited join our association. They have been operating various types of ships for a number of years and are well regarded among their colleagues in the industry. All of us in the maritime community take use and stewardship of the oceans very seriously and Maersk Line, Limited’s concerns with safety, protection of the marine environment and efficient operation for their customers dovetail very well with CSA’s mission and vision statements.” Maersk Line, Limited President and CEO John F. Reinhart stated, “We are honored to be unanimously elected to membership in the Chamber of Shipping of America. CSA is a great organization and is addressing a large number of important issues facing our industry including numerous safety and environmental initiatives. We look forward to being an active and productive member of the association.” CSA is an association of thirty-six U.S. companies (many of them SIU-contracted operations) that own, operate or charter vessels in the domestic and international trades of the U.S. or are engaged businesses closely associated with vessels. Equipped with two cranes, the vessel loads cargo in Mobile. Crowley Maritime Launches First Ocean-Class Tugboat The new tug Ocean Wave is pictured late last year in dry-dock (above) and in the water. February 2012 10162_FEB_2012_LOG.indd 3 SIU-contracted Crowley Maritime Corp. late last year announced the launch of the Ocean Wave in Lake Charles, La. The vessel, which will carry an SIU crew, is the first of four Ocean-Class tugboats under construction at Bollinger Shipyards in Amelia, La. According to Crowley, the Ocean Wave and Ocean Wind are classed as Dynamic Positioning 1 (DP1) tugboats and are twin-screw, steelhulled tugs each with an overall length of 146 feet, beam of 46 feet, hull depth of 25 feet and design draft of 21 feet. The second two tugs of the class, the Ocean Sky and Ocean Sun, will be classed as DP2 and will be 10 feet longer. In announcing the Ocean Wave’s launch, Crowley noted that each of the new tugs “will be ideally suited” to work with the company’s new 455-series heavy lift deck barges, which measure 400 feet by 105 feet “and offer increased stability for loads up to 4,200 pounds per square foot. Additionally, the tugs will be outfitted for, and capable of, rig moves, platform and floating production, storage and offloading (FPSO) unit tows, emergency response and fire fighting. These Ocean-Class vessels will also have the capability to support salvage and rescue towing opportunities.” The Ocean Wave is scheduled for delivery early this year. The remaining tugs are expected to be completed by the end of 2013. Meanwhile, in early January, Crowley reported its acquisition of 500 new 40-foot containers. Some of the new containers will replace older ones, but overall the additions will grow the company’s tally of more than 45,000 units. In a news release, Crowley indicated that the new containers, each with a capacity of 2,700 cubic feet, will be used in all liner service operations in Latin America, the Caribbean and Puerto Rico. The containers reportedly “exceed all new and amended ISO standards for freight container door security applications. A combination of security enhancements and upgrades deters and prevents unauthorized access into containers and loaded cargo.” Seafarers LOG 3 1/25/2012 8:04:44 PM �Crews from the Ocean Titan and Florece huddled on the deck of the Titan for the photo above during the days that followed the dramatic rescue at sea. In the photo at right, Florece Captain Sergey (left) thanks Ocean Titan Master Capt. Christopher Hill for his actions and those of his crew during the early morning hours of Dec. 9. Rescue At Sea: Seven European mariners, a mixture of Russian, Polish and Ukrainian nationalities, today are alive and well thanks to their heroic December 2011 rescue by the crew from the SIU–contracted Ocean Titan. The Ocean Titan is operated by Pacific-Gulf Marine for Intermarine, Inc. It is manned in the unlicensed positions by SIU members and in the licensed slots by members of the Seafarers-affiliated American Maritime Officers. Seafarers aboard the Ocean Titan at the time of the rescue included Bosun Magdy Balat, ABs Hilario Rochez, James Luttrell and Miguel Angel Matos, QMED Electrician Michael Kelly, GUDE Stephon Thompson, Steward/Baker Lawrence Winfield and ACU Steven Holmes. Crew members aboard the bulk carrier MV Florece, the foreign mariners, had taken to lifeboats when their vessel sank following an at-sea collision with the chemical tanker M/V Afrodite. The accident occurred at about 3:30 a.m. Dec. 9 approximately 250 miles southwest of Land’s End in the Bay of Biscay, near the United Kingdom. The British Coast Guard (Falmouth) was alerted to the plight of the crew when the Florece’s distress radio beacon was activated as she began to sink. The Falmouth Coast Guard used long-range information tracking to locate the nearest ship to the position given. When they spoke to the master of the Afrodite, he informed them that he had been in a collision with the Florece and that the other vessel’s crew had abandoned their ship to life rafts. The Afrodite attempted a rescue via the deployment of its fast rescue craft but had been unsuccessful due to the sea swell. During this same period, the U.S. Coast Guard also had received a distress signal from the Florece and reported the situation to the Falmouth agency. The latter outfit then made a request for assistance to any ships in the area. They also discussed the incident with the Spanish coast guard who began preparing to send a helicopter and fixed-wing aircraft. Meanwhile, Ocean Titan Master Capt. Christopher Hill on the same day was awakened from his sleep at around 4 a.m. by his chief mate. After making his way to his vessel’s bridge, Hill received information about the situation involving the Florece from his chief mate as well as other sources. The chief mate told Hill that a vessel 15 miles ahead of the Titian had sent an undesignated distress message and that only the name of the vessel and her position had shown up with the message. The chief mate had tried several times without success to hail the vessel in distress. Eventually another vessel, the Afrodite, answered on the VHF and announced that the Florece had been in a collision. What the Afrodite transmission did not say however was that she was the vessel with whom the Florece had collided. Responding to the British Coast Guard’s request for assistance from any ship in the area, Hill set the Titan’s course for Florece’s position. According to reports, in addition to the Afrodite two other vessels—the Maersk Kampala and the Hammersmith Bridge—were also in the vicinity. Neither played significant roles in the pending rescue. “A glance at the radar told me that there were precious few ships in our area,” said Hill as he recalled the particulars which came to bear during of night of the rescue. “And a glance out of the window told me that the weather was every bit as bad as the previous day’s forecast had suggested it would be: near gale force winds and 12-to-14-foot seas on a pitch-black and bitterly cold Winter North Atlantic night.” Captain Hill said that, well before the actual rescue, he knew he had on board one of the best crews, top to bottom, that he had ever set sail with. Still, he felt that the Ocean Titan was ill-suited for rescuing anyone that night. “My bow thruster was inoperative and without it, the ship’s controllable pitch propeller makes keeping the bow from falling off to starboard no small chore even in flat calm condi- 4 Seafarers LOG 10162_FEB_2012_LOG.indd 4 Crew of Union-Contracted Ocean Titan Saves Lives of Seven Foreign Mariners tions,” he said. “The wind that morning was screaming from one direction and a heavy trans-Atlantic swell was making up from another which made any slow-speed approach a little like fighting two ninjas, one on the right and one on the left, at the same time. “Further, I had a weather deck slap full of cargo with chain lashings,” he continued. “That on-deck cargo included a 140 metric ton shore crane with a very, very high center of gravity. That piece alone effectively eliminated rolling violently from my list of things to do that morning.” Despite these potential obstacles, Hill while pushing his vessel towards the Florece’s location said he personally called the Afrodite’s captain to see if there was anything he could do to help in the rescue. “The Afrodite responded by saying ‘No, the situation is in hand.’ “I breathed a sigh of relief, settled into my captain’s chair and began to think about a cup of coffee,” Hill recalled. Hill said that at about five miles away from the two vessels (Afrodite and Florece) and on a course that he thought would keep the Titan well clear of the scene, another vessel, the Hammersmith Bridge, hailed the Afrodite and offered assistance. “The Afrodite informed the Hammersmith Bridge that the Florece was sinking and that her crew had taken to the rafts, but that the Afrodite was in the process of rescuing them,” Hill said. “This caught me a bit by surprise as I had received information from the Afrodite only a minute or two before that the situation was ‘in-hand’. No mention of a ship sinking or people in the water had been made.” At about four miles from the Florece’s location, things began coming into focus for Hill and his crew aboard the Titan. “From my bridge and with the scene of the collision lying broad on my starboard bow … I could clearly see that the Florece was in a bad way,” Hill recalled. “She lay broadside to the heavy swell and was heeled such that a goodly portion of her hull could be seen in the lights of the nearby Afrodite. “Her appearance was grotesque,” the captain continued. “As I looked at the stricken ship and right before my eyes, the Florece sank. She sank neither by the stern nor by the bow. She sank suddenly and bodily while lying flat on her starboard side; there one second and gone the next. “Her lights, her AIS information and her radar image were all instantly lost. Watching the Florece sink was, on the one hand, amazing and on the other, horrifying,” Hill said. Shortly after the Florece descended into the deep, Hill said a distress flare was fired in the direction of the Titan—no more than a mile or two off his starboard bow. “My lookout immediately reported a life raft in the water,” the captain recalled. “I was closer by two miles to the life raft than the Afrodite, but was still under the presumption that the Afrodite was in the process of performing the rescue.” Hill would later learn that the sum total of the Afrodite’s rescue was an attempt to launch their rescue boat which failed because of the towering seas The Pacific-Gulf Marine operated, SIU-crewed Ocean Titan and stiff winds. Upon seeing the flare, the captain backed the Titan engines hard, called all hands and raised the Afrodite’s captain on the VHF. “I explained to him that I was much closer to the life raft than his vessel and asked again if he needed assistance,” Hill said. “The captain, this time and without hesitation, acceded and asked me to make an attempt at rescue. “I informed the Afrodite’s captain that I would try,” Hill continued, “but was not sure given the heavy weather that I could maneuver my vessel close enough to the survivors to rescue them.” Hill steered the Titan upwind of the life raft and tried to keep enough weigh on the ship to prevent broaching while at the same time proceeding slowly enough so that he could stop upon reaching the raft. Once Hill had the Titan in position, his crew commenced the rescue operation. “I received a call from the bridge advising me to be on deck ASAP for a rescue within two minutes,” recalled Bosun Balat. “I went on deck and headed to a rescue boat, but the captain decided not to use the rescue boat ‘cause of the heavy swells. “So I got about eight heaving lines ready from the bow,” Balat continued. “Then we started throwing heaving lines to the first life raft and got four people. We sent them down to the ship’s office and headed toward the second raft.” In the end, the crew hauled all seven Florece crew members to safety aboard the Ocean Titan, three men from the first raft and four from a second. Aside from being very cold and wet, each of the crew members was fine and very happy to be alive. They were given food, water and dry clothing. “I thought that the guys in the raft had a fighting chance of making it onto my ship,” Hill said, “but wasn’t sure that it was possible given the weather conditions until I saw the first man step up onto my deck. I remember thinking I’ll be damned.” Captain Hill later made arrangements to make a quick port call into Lisbon, a day and a half sailing from the rescue scene, to offload the survivors. Ocean Titan crew members, during the voyage which followed the rescue, got to know the survivors well enough to recognize that they were worth the risks that had been taken to save their lives. “They were good-natured, well-mannered with wives and girlfriends, with mothers and fathers and with children and grandchildren,” Hill said. “My crew cheerfully donated shoes and clothes and even passed the hat so that the rescued crewmen would have some walking around money in Lisbon where they would have to wait a few days for their embassies to issue new travel documents.” The seven survivors were put ashore in the Port of Lisbon during the evening of Dec. 10. All were in good health and in good spirits. According to Captain Hill, the Ocean Titan was showered with high praise and one blast on a ship’s whistle from a Portuguese naval commander blasting on behalf of his navy upon its arrival in Lisbon. Additionally, owners and managers of the Florece (who had flown to Lisbon to greet their crew) along with the Lisbon port agent sent their regards and appreciation via VHF. Launch boat owners delivered a bottle of port wine and the Lisbon Capitania Do Porto delivered a poignant, hand-written and thoughtful letter, which read in part: “....a job very well done in the best tradition of seaman in general and those belonging to the U.S. Merchant Marine in particular.” Bosun Balat said that while rescuing crews whose vessels have sunk is not an everyday occurrence, it can and does happen at sea. “When it does and you accomplish [the feat] of saving a seven-man crew, you feel that you won the Mega Millions Jackpot and you have to share the winnings with those involved in the rescue mission,” he said. “I would like to salute every member of SIU who took part in the rescue mission aboard the Ocean Titan that day,” he concluded. February 2012 1/25/2012 8:04:48 PM �Officials Ease TWIC Requirements For Some When Obtaining, Renewing Mariner Credentials The U.S. Coast Guard in late December announced a new policy that exempts some mariners from the requirement to obtain a Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) when renewing or obtaining a Coast Guard-issued merchant mariner credential (MMC). According to the agency, TWICs no longer will be required for mariners who aren’t actively sailing but are maintaining documents of continuity, nor will they be required for active mariners on vessels that aren’t required to have vessel security plans. Impact on SIU Members Minimal As reported at the January membership meetings, the new policy likely won’t affect many SIU members, because the vast majority of SIU-crewed vessels are required to have a vessel security plan. Also, Seafarers should note that the Coast Guard openly cautions individuals to expect potentially significant delays in the processing of credential applications submitted by non-TWIC holders. In announcing these changes, the agency said it is acting in accordance with a component of the Coast Guard Authorization Act of 2010 that “permits the Coast Guard to exempt any mariner not requiring unescorted access to a secure area of a vessel from the requirement to hold a valid TWIC as a precondition of receiving a merchant mariner credential.” A day later, the Coast Guard clarified that in order for them to process an MMC application, they must have received the applicant’s biographical information from the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), issuer of the TWIC. The upshot is that for a mariner to get his or her MMC application processed, he or she must have completed the TWIC enrollment procedure at least once. “Additionally,” the Coast Guard advised, “in order for the Coast Guard to process a credential application for a mariner who is not in possession of a valid TWIC, the mariner must submit a statement indicating an understanding of the possible delays associated with processing the safety and suitability check and certifying that they do not require a TWIC in accordance with the policy letter.” What About Newcomers? What about mariners who are applying for an initial MMC or who never possessed a TWIC? In the applicable five-page policy letter, the Coast Guard states that those individuals still must enroll for a TWIC, in person, and must pay all applicable fees. However, they don’t have to actually go back and pick up the TWIC in order for the MMC process to continue. The policy letter is available online, in PDF format at: www.uscg.mil/nmc/marpers/pag/twic_809_policy_letter.pdf It also may be accessed by connecting to www.uscg.mil/nmc/ and then looking under Mariner’s Information Center, and then under Policy and Guidance. Look for document 11-15, titled “Merchant Mariner Credentials for Mariners Not Requiring a Transportation Worker Identification Credential.” Coast Guard Publishes Policy Regarding Implementation Of 2010 STCW Amendments The U.S. Coast Guard in early January published a “notice of policy” covering the first stages of implementation of certain amendments to the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW). Specifically, the agency issued guidance for hours of rest and securityrelated training, and for documentation of both. Overall, the 2010 amendments to the convention (commonly called the Manila amendments) will be phased in during the next five years. For now, the immediate effects on SIU members sailing aboard ships covered by the convention include an increase in mandatory minimum rest hours in any seven-day period, and documentation of security-related training. The new standard for rest is 77 hours, while the old one was 70 hours. Because the final rule covering these issues hasn’t been published, the Coast Guard isn’t yet enforcing the provisions. However, the agency strongly urges compliance by U.S.-flag ships, particularly when overseas. According to the notice, “Although full implementation of the hours of rest and security training requirements necessitate regulatory changes, the Coast Guard is issuing this notice to implement mechanisms to lessen February 2012 10162_FEB_2012_LOG.indd 5 Labor Welcomes NLRB Rule Change Modification Protects Workers; Board also Adds Members The National Labor Relations Board (NLRB), a neutral, government body that among other duties is charged with settling certain types of disputes between companies and labor unions, has made several important announcements since late December. Those developments include the addition of new board members and an important alteration to union election rules that could have a large impact on how unions organize. On Jan. 4, President Obama announced the appointment of three people to the NLRB who are tasked with deciding cases that are brought before the board. The first, Sharon Block, has served the government in a variety of capacities, most recently as the deputy assistant secretary for congressional affairs at the U.S. Department of Labor. She also served the NLRB as a senior attorney to former chairman Robert Battista from 2003 to 2006. Another appointee, Terrence F. Flynn, has served NLRB board members as general counsel for a number of years. In addition, Flynn has spent a large part of his career dealing with labor and employment law issues in the private sector. The final addition to the board is Richard Griffin, who has spent his career working for organized labor as an attorney. Griffin, whose last job was general counsel for the International Union of Operating Engineers, also is on the board of directors of the AFL-CIO Lawyers Coordinating Committee. The NLRB now is operating at its full five-member staff level for the first time since August 2010. In other news, the NLRB late last year announced adoption of portions of a new rule that will help cut through bureaucratic measures that are sometimes used by companies to stall and thwart union elections. The rule, which goes into effect on April 30, aims to make union representation elections easier, faster, and fairer. The rule change “will reduce unnecessary litigation in representation cases and thereby enable the Board to better fulfill its duty to expeditiously resolve questions concerning representation,” said the NLRB in a statement. The new rule should reduce the number of challenges that are made by management during union elections. For example, companies often use lawsuits to dispute which employees are eligible to become union members or by suing to have lengthy, expensive, and repetitive reviews of the election results. Many pro-worker organizations accuse certain companies of exploiting these lawsuits to give management time to bash the union and intimidate workers into not opting to join. The new rules also aim to end frivolous complaints sent to the NLRB that effectively keep new union members from being fully represented by their chosen unions. The adoption of the rule is welcomed by organized labor, but officials are quick to point out that this is one small step out of many needed to ensure fairness in union election proceedings. “It’s good news that the NLRB has taken this modest but important step to help ensure that workers who want to vote to form a union at their workplace get a fair opportunity to do so,” AFL-CIO President Richard Trumka said. EPI Sheds Light on ‘Right to Work’ A recent commentary from the highly regarded Economic Policy Institute (EPI) exposes antiworker truths behind so-called right-to-work laws that exist in 22 states and that are being pushed in others, perhaps most prominently including Indiana. In a mid-January piece, author Gordon Lafer points out, “Like most business initiatives that purport to help the little people, this one starts with cutting workers’ wages. RTW is supposed to be a tool for luring manufacturers from one state to another. As the Chamber of Commerce explains, ‘unionization increases labor costs,’ and therefore ‘makes a given location a less attractive place to invest new capital.’ By giving up unions and lowering their wages, workers increase their desirability in the eyes of manufacturers. “This is the corporate lobbies’ idea of economic policy: have people in every state compete for the lowest wages and crappiest benefits,” he continues. “Some location will inevitably win out, but in the end, everyone’s wages will be lower and the number of jobs in the country will be the exact same as before. If you wonder how income inequality got so the port state control impact on United States vessels while operating abroad, and while the Coast Guard publishes the final rule…. Because the final rule implementing the 2010 amendments to the STCW will not be published before the 1 January 2012 entry into force date, there is a need to provide guidance on implementation of the amendments related to these requirements, which will impact U.S. vessels and seafarers beginning on 1 January 2012. This notice applies to all vessels subject to STCW under current regulations.” The notice further points out that the Manila amendments changed “the rest hours requirements as follows: (1) Expanded the application for hours of work and rest periods for mariners to include all personnel with designated safety, prevention of pollution, and security duties onboard any vessel; (2) changed the weekly rest hours requirements from 70 hours to 77 hours; and (3) required the recording of hours of rest…. Vessels operating in foreign ports are encouraged to implement these requirements to avoid any potential port state control detentions. Hours of rest for each crew member can be documented in the vessel logbook.” In part, the section of the notice covering security training requirements reads as follows: “The STCW Convention requires that mariners who commenced service after 1 January 2012 meet the training requirements for vessel personnel with designated security duties and security awareness, as appropriate. In addition, the STCW Convention also provides transitional provisions for mariners who started service prior to 1 January 2012. Recognizing that the implementation date is fast extreme, look no further.” Lafer cites very credible studies that conclude RTW laws lower average income for union workers and unrepresented employees alike, by an average of around $1,500 a year. (On average, someone who belongs to a union makes 15 percent higher wages than a non–union member in the same industry with the same level of education.) RTW laws also hurt workers’ chances of getting health insurance or a pension through their jobs. It’s also a myth that RTW laws Continued on Page 7 approaching, and that there may be practical difficulties for all seafarers with security related requirements to obtain necessary certifications and/or the necessary endorsements required in accordance with regulation VI/6 of the 2010 Manila Amendments, the IMO issued Circular STCW.7/Circ.17. The Circular provides advice for port state control officers on transitional arrangements leading up to full implementation of the 2010 Manila Amendments on 1 January 2017. The Circular also recommends that Administrations inform their port state control authorities that, until 1 January 2014, it would be sufficient to accept compliance with section 13 of the International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code, even if a seafarer’s documentation with regard to the security-related training in regulation VI/6 is not in accordance with the 2010 Manila Amendments…. “Vessels operating in foreign ports should ensure that all personnel, except for the vessel security officer (VSOs), working on board the vessel are in possession of the appropriate course completion certificate or a company letter as proof of meeting the requirements in 33 CFR 104.220 or 104.225, and Section 13 of the ISPS Code. VSOs must hold the appropriate endorsement on their credential.” According to the International Maritime Organization, the Manila amendments, which were adopted at a diplomatic conference in the Philippines in June 2010, “are aimed at ensuring that the necessary global standards will be in place to train and certify seafarers to operate technologically advanced ships for some time to come.” Seafarers LOG 5 1/25/2012 9:12:04 PM �Members and guests gathered at the hall to load the toys and celebrate the occasion. Among those on hand were (photo above, from left) Santa’s Castle Director Linda Evans, Safety Director Ryan Palmer, secretary Brenda Flesner, Port Agent Joe Vincenzo and a Santa’s Castle volunteer. In photo at left, AB Gerret Jarman (left) and AB Edgar Parong help load the presents. Seafarer Mario Batiz (photo at right below) is one of more than 100 members who pitched in for this year’s toy drive. In the end (photo at left below), SIU members donated thousands of dollars’ worth of toys for military families. Seafarers Step Up for Santa’s Castle Annual Effort in Tacoma Benefits American Military Families Seafarers in Tacoma, Wash., continued their tradition of service and goodwill late last year with another strong showing at the annual toy drive. SIU members donated new toys worth more than $5,000 to Santa’s Castle, an organization that distributes toys to the children of American servicemen and women who are deployed overseas. The toys included bicycles, skateboards, musical instruments, portable DVD players, and much more. More than 100 Seafarers, their families, and several special guests were on hand at the hall to present the gifts to Santa’s Castle Director Linda Evans, including a representative from Rep. Adam Smith’s (D-Wash.) office and Congressional candidate Denny Heck. “Once again, I have to say what a privilege it is for me to host this event and I’m grateful for the opportunity to say thank you on behalf of Seafarers to our war he- roes here at Joint Base Lewis McChord for their service,” said Port Agent Joe Vincenzo, who also acknowledged the significant contribution of Seafarers from aboard the Global Sentinel. Rank-and-file members based out of the Tacoma hall are known for their devotion to lending a helping hand to their community, and the most recent toy drive couldn’t have been successful without their help. “Some people can give and some people can’t, and I’m one of those who can,” said Chief Cook Charles Atkins. “It’s always a blessing to help others. Sometimes, especially during Christmastime, kids need and deserve to be happy.” Atkins, who has donated toys for several years, was finally able to participate in person this year, giving his time and his skills in the kitchen. “Next year, if I’m home, I would be proud to take time and help out,” added Atkins. “Everyone should be happy and feel blessed at Christmastime. I really look forward to putting the time in and helping someone every year.” Both Vincenzo and Atkins say their efforts to show their gratitude to American’s warfighters are an essential part of the SIU spirit. “Giving back is part of who we are,” said Vincenzo. “I expect that we will con- tinue on this course as long as we’re all willing and able.” Atkins agreed. “Being an SIU member gives me the opportunity to help,” he said. “It’s not easy. It takes a lot of hard work to put something like this together, but it’s worth it. It’s not just good for me, but it’s good for everybody to pitch in.” USNS Dahl Crew Brightens Children’s Holidays in Saipan Maritime Industry Gives Back, Supports Assorted Endeavors Being at sea didn’t stop the SIU crew members and AMO officers from the USNS Dahl from donating toys and cash to residents at a shelter in Saipan. For their fourth annual toy drive, the mariners provided gifts for more than 70 kids at the House of Hope facility – a shelter for battered women and their children. The Dahl personnel also donated $2,000 as a Christmas present to the adult clients at the shelter. The vessel is operated by Ocean Ships, Inc., and the company made a substantial donation to the toy drive. Bosun William “Jeff” Johnson said he was happy to take part in the philanthropic effort. “Why wouldn’t anybody want to get involved?” he asked. “It takes a little time and money, but in return, 71 children have a much better Christmas.” He added that seeing the shelter’s res- Rank-and-file Seafarers weren’t the only ones from the U.S. maritime industry who spend part of the holiday season helping those less fortunate. Land-based employees of SIU-contracted Totem Ocean Trailer Express (TOTE) recently teamed up to help families in need. Employee contributions helped local “adopted” families both in Tacoma, Wash., and in Alaska to have a much brighter holiday. Workers’ generosity allowed TOTE to provide the respective families with gifts, food, movie passes and more. In addition to the fun gifts, family members received coats, shoes and other clothing. Shore-side workers at SIU-contracted Crowley Maritime Corporation in Miami organized a toy drive and collected 130 presents for the St. Alban’s Child Enrichment Center. Also, the company’s 6 Seafarers LOG 10162_FEB_2012_LOG.indd 6 idents “reminds me how lucky my family and I are, even when I am working during Christmas.” Storekeeper Bill Fortner said that although the mariners haven’t met any of the families, “just knowing that they are receiving the full benefit of our help makes all the difference…. Personally, I feel that we mariners are very fortunate. What most of us will spend in a single night ashore is more than what the average worker here in Saipan brings home in a week. For the families in the shelter, there is nothing coming in. They are completely dependent on the church” that runs it. Chief Steward Kim Strate said the experience “felt great! It has been so nice to do something for the island.” The gifts were purchased shortly before the holiday, while the crew was in Okinawa. Port Everglades Terminal had two toy drives that left lots of smiling faces at Kids in Distress and the Advance Learning Center. And in Alaska, Crowley personnel volunteered to wrap presents for children being sheltered from physical and substance abuse. On the Great Lakes, the Michigan Maritime Trades Port Council raised nearly $3,000 for the Carpenters’ Christmas for Kids, Care House Christmas for Kids, and the Metro Detroit Community Services’ Holiday Basket Giveaway. Additionally, SIU-contracted American Steamship Company started a new tradition this December by e-mailing its holiday card and using what it would have spent on cards and postage to make a donation to the Food Bank of Western New York. February 2012 1/25/2012 8:04:54 PM �Non-Partisan Organization Exposes RTW Continued from Page 5 promote job growth in individual states, Lafer notes. “To a large extent, globalization has rendered RTW impotent. It may be that companies in the 1970s or 1980s moved to RTW states in search of lower wages. But in the globalized economy, companies looking for cheap labor are overwhelmingly looking to China or Mexico, not South Carolina,” he writes. Moreover, Lafer points to Oklahoma’s RTW-related downfall as a powerful case study against that law. He says that many of the same arguments in favor of RTW used in Oklahoma a decade ago now are being made by some in Indiana. But, “in the ten years since Oklahoma adopted RTW, the number of manufacturing jobs in the state has fallen by one-third. The number of companies coming into the state – supposed to increase by ‘eight to ten times’ – has decreased by 30 percent. And Oklahoma’s unemployment rate in 2010 was double what it was when RTW was adopted. RTW was not the cause of this job loss – it was simply irrelevant in the face of broader economic forces. Oklahoma has lost tens of thousands of jobs to cheaper labor overseas, prompting the mayor of Oklahoma City to complain in 2006 that ‘we’re getting hit in the manufacturing sector over and over again.’ That year, General Motors closed its Oklahoma City plant – laying off 2,400 employees – as production was shifted to Mexico.” The entire commentary is available at www.epi.org, in an entry dated Jan. 12. The EPI is a non-profit, nonpartisan organization. SIU Boatmen Ratify Allied Contract SIU members employed by Allied Transportation Co. recently ratified a new three-year contract that boosts wages and maintains medical benefits. The agreement, approved in late December by a strong majority, also includes an increase in the food allowance aboard Allied vessels. More than 100 Seafarers work at Norfolk, Va.-based Allied, sailing aboard boats on the East and Gulf coasts. They transport chemical products aboard articulated tug-barge units and other vessels. SIU Norfolk Port Agent Georg Kenny, who led the union’s negotiating team, said both sides deserve credit for reaching a fair contract. “The negotiations went well, and I think we ended up with something that’s good for both the membership and the company,” Kenny stated. “The members at Allied do a great job, and at the same time, Allied, in my opinion, is one of the best companies out there. I think all of that is reflected in this new contract.” He added special thanks to company officials Jeff Parker, Wanda Leach and Meredith Law for all the logistical support they provided during negotiations. Capt. Steve Lewis served on the SIU bargaining committee, and he described the experience as worthwhile. “The whole thing was positive, in my opinion,” Lewis said. “You always have give and take, but the way I see it, it’s a positive contract. Everybody benefited, and it was very important that we maintained our medical coverage at Core Plus (the top level available under the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan).” Lewis has sailed with Allied for nearly 14 years, and this marked the first time he has been involved in contract negotiations. “I’d be willing to do it again and I’d recommend that others do the same, whether they’re elected or they want to sit in as volunteers. It was a good experience,” he added. The previous contract with Allied was set to expire in August 2010, but was extended by a year. It subsequently was extended through the end of 2011 as negotiations continued. Pictured in front of the Allied tug Osprey are (from left) Mate Geoffrey Gavigan, Cadet Ryan Knorr, Chief Engineer Stuart Diggs and Engineer Stephen Banks. Former SIU, AMO Official Gordon Spencer Dies at 86 Gordon W. Spencer, former SIU port agent and a founder of the Seafarersaffiliated American Maritime Officers (AMO), died Dec. 21 at his home in Virginia Beach, Va., following a brief illness. He was 86. Gordon Spencer addresses delegates at the SIUNA convention in 1971. February 2012 10162_FEB_2012_LOG.indd 7 Those who knew him described Spencer as an effective champion of maritime labor, whether working on the waterfront, at the union hall or on Capitol Hill. SIU President Michael Sacco recalled working with Spencer on several organizing drives. “Gordon was one of the best organizers we ever had,” the SIU president stated. “I knew him when he was our port agent in Norfolk, Va. He was a great union guy all the way around, but his forte was organizing – he could really get his message across. “He did an outstanding job, too, in lobbying for AMO,” Sacco continued. “He was one of the originals, and he’ll be sorely missed.” A native of Australia, Spencer sailed in the Norwegian and U.S. merchant fleets during World War II. He subsequently was enlisted by the late SIU President Paul Hall to help form the Brotherhood of Marine Engineers as an SIUNA affiliate in the late 1940s. (The BME eventually became the AMO.) Spencer successfully organized members in the inland and deep sea fleets, and also helped secure contracts with groundbreaking benefits for boatmen. He eventually became the executive vice president and secretary-treasurer of AMO (then known as District 2 of the MEBA). He switched hats in the mid-1970s and helped lead the growth of the union’s legislative outreach in Washington, D.C. “Gordon Spencer was in Washington with Paul Hall and (the late AMO/ District 2 President) Ray McKay during the battles for the Cargo Preference Act of 1954 and the PL-480 Food for Peace program that same year,” AMO National President Tom Bethel said. “He made a compelling case for U.S. merchant ships carrying government cargoes in the interests of national security and diplomatic dividend, and American merchant mariners remain at work today because of the work Gordon Spencer did on these issues 58 years ago.” Bethel also credited Spencer for helping preserve U.S. maritime jobs in the mid-1990s, both by defending the Jones Act and by helping advance legislation that led to the creation of the Maritime Security Program. He described Spencer as “one of the most respected and most well-liked figures on Capitol Hill.” Spencer’s survivors include his wife, Spencer’s work on Capitol Hill continues benefitting U.S. mariners today. He is pictured above with U.S. Rep. Walter Jones (left) (R-N.C.). two daughters and three grandchildren. A memorial service took place Dec. 29 at Virginia Beach United Methodist Church. Memorial contributions may be made to Potter’s House Ministry at Virginia Beach United Methodist Church, 212 Nineteenth Street, Virginia Beach, VA 23451. Condolences may be offered to the family at www.hollomon-brown. com. Seafarers LOG 7 1/25/2012 8:04:57 PM �MAERSK ALABAMA - The Christmas menu aboard the Maersk Alabama offered something for practically every taste, including appetizers, turkey, prime rib, broiled lamb kabobs, plus side dishes and desserts galore. Making it all happen were (above at right, from left) SA Saleh Mohmohd, Chief Cook Mutee Zindani and Steward/Baker Tyler Laffitte. In the other two photos, crew members enjoy the meal. Among those pictured (photo at left, from left) are AB Mohamed Mazid, GUDE Alex Rodriguez, QMED James Glover and Electrician Boleslaw Szatkowski. Seafarers Share Holiday Spirit In Halls, At Sea Aboard ships and at several SIU halls, members gathered to enjoy fellowship and good food as they welcomed the winter holiday season. Retirees, family members and other guests also took part in the festivities at the halls. Photos from some of the ships and halls appear on this page and on the next one. PHILADELPHIA - Members, officials and guests flash their best holiday smiles Dec. 16 at the hall in Philadelphia. WILMINGTON - The Dec. 22 celebration in Wilmington, Calif., drew a large turnout. Attendees included retiree Leonard Viles and Bosun Richard Volkart (photo at right below, from left); Port Agent Jeff Turkus and wife Pristine (photo at left); and Safety Director Abdul Al Omari (left) and Dispatcher Nick Rios (photo immediately below). 8 Seafarers LOG 10162_FEB_2012_LOG_X.indd 8 February 2012 1/30/2012 11:22:21 AM �BALTIMORE - Guests at the Dec. 8 feast in Baltimore included Metropolitan Baltimore Council AFLCIO President Ernie Grecco, standing at far left in photo at left. JACKSONVILLE - Members and guests get together at the Jacksonville hall the week before Thanksgiving. Among those pictured are Seafarers Michael Fincannon (center photo below) and Manuel Daguio (photo at right), plus (photo below, from left) Safety Director Ashley Nelson and members Federico Ocampo and Tirso Sarmiento. APL THAILAND - Recertified Steward Joel Molinos (photo at bottom right), Chief Cook Ben Lozada and Asst. Cook Mohamed Wasel teamed up to deliver a scrumptious Thanksgiving dinner to their shipmates. Some of the desserts are shown in the photo at left below. February 2012 10162_FEB_2012_LOG.indd 9 Seafarers LOG 9 1/25/2012 8:05:08 PM �WITH MEMBERS IN OAKLAND – AB Edward Tanaka (right in photo at left above, with Patrolman Nick Marrone II) late last year received his A-seniority book at the union hall in Oakland, Calif. His recent ships include the Horizon Hawk and the Alaskan Explorer. Also at the Oakland hall in December, CME/QMED Mike Peck (center in photo at right above) was congratulated on his retirement and presented with his first pension check by Asst. VP Nick Celona (right) and Administrative Asst. Diana Marrone. At Sea and Ashore with the SIU BACKING AVONDALE WORKERS – Late last year, New Orleansarea Seafarers joined fellow trade unionists and other supporters for a demonstration backing workers from Avondale Shipyard. The SIU contingent included Sam Akuffo, Luis Nunez, Austin Howard, Eugene Tuggle, Adolfo Figueroa, Joe Lebeau and James Brown, among others. NOT AN EVERYDAY SIGHT – Port Agent Tracey Mayhew glanced outside the hall in Anchorage, Alaska, in early January and spotted this visitor. Yes, it’s real. No, we didn’t bag it. FUTURE SEAFARER – Houston Port Agent Mike Russo wanted to share this recent photo of his son, Vincent, visiting the union hall. No word yet on whether Vincent will choose the deck, engine or steward department. PUMPMAN EARNS SAFETY AWARD – Late last year, the department heads of the Maersk Michigan unanimously voted to award Pumpman Don Wellentin (above) $100 from the ship’s safety fund and a letter of commendation for his years of dedicated service, according to vessel master Capt. James Walker. “Don was part of the original crew that reflagged the ship to the American flag, under the Maersk Line, Limited banner,” Walker noted. “His outstanding technical knowledge and skills along with his devotion to the ship and crew have helped make our operation a success.” AT THE HALL IN JACKSONVILLE – Two members recently celebrated their retirements at the union hall in Jacksonville, Fla., while two others took the union oath. Newly retired Crowley Capt. Michael Lydick (left in photo at right) is pictured with Asst. VP Archie Ware; fellow retiree Steve Mitchell, also formerly a captain with Crowley, stands fourth from left in the large group photo immediately above. Joining him are (from left) Patrolman Brian Guiry, Safety Director Ashley Nelson, Secretary Karen Shuford, VP Gulf Coast Dean Corgey and Asst. VP Ware. In the other photo above, Corgey swears in FOWT Gary Simmons (center, receiving his A-seniority book) and AB Christopher Hickey (full book). 10 Seafarers LOG 10162_FEB_2012_LOG.indd 10 February 2012 1/25/2012 8:05:14 PM �Deadline for 2012 SHBP Scholarship Approaches The Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan (SHBP) is offering scholarship opportunities to Seafarers and dependents who are interested in furthering their education but need financial assistance. The SHBP each year offers scholarships to qualified Seafarers and dependents who are hoping to continue their education. Designed to ease the financial challenges associated with college and vocational studies, the 2012 SHBP Scholarship Program will offer eight awards totaling $132,000. Three scholarships will be designated for Seafarers and five will be targeted for spouses and dependents. One of the endowments reserved for Seafarers totals $20,000 and is intended to help defray the costs associated with attending a four-year, college-level course of study. The remaining two are in the amount of $6,000 each and are designed as two-year awards for study at a postsecondary vocational school or community college. Each of the five scholarships for spouses and dependents is for $20,000. Now is an ideal time to begin the application process. The first step is to send for the 2012 SHBP Scholarship Program booklet. The package contains eligibility information, procedures for applying for the scholarships and an application form. To obtain a copy of this handout, write to the following address and request a copy: Scholarship Program, Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. All requests should include the requesting individual’s name, Social Security number (Seafarer sponsor’s Social Security number if a dependent), a complete mailing address including zip code and a telephone number. Request- ors shoud indicate whether the booklet is for themselves or their dependents. The booklets also are availabe at Seafarers’ hiring halls. Once the scholarship booklet has been received, applicants should check the eligibility criteria to determine if they are eligible to participate. They should also begin collecting and assembling the remainder of the paperwork needed to submit with the full application, which must be received by April 15, 2012. Items that need to be incorporated in the final application package include transcripts and certificates of graduation. Since some institutions respond slowly in handling transcript needs, requests should be made as early as possible. Letters of recommendation – solicited from individuals who know the applicant’s character, personality and career goals – should be included as part of the application package. A highquality photograph and a certified copy of the applicant’s birth certificate are also required and should accompany the package. A scholarship selection committee, consisting of a panel of professional educators, will examine the high school grades of all applicants as well as evaluate scores from their Scholastic Aptitude Tests (SAT) and American College Tests (ACT). Accordingly, arrangements should be made by applicants who have not done so to take these tests no later than this month. Doing so will virtually assure that the results reach the evaluation committee in time for review. Seafarers and dependents who previously applied for the scholarship program and were not selected are encouraged to apply again this year, provided they still meet the eligibility requirements. Maritime & Labor Briefs ATC Crews Commended The corporate leadership of the Alaska Tanker Company (ATC) has commended Seafarers aboard their vessels for their steadfast devotion to workplace and environmental safety. In a mass email distributed by the company, ATC pointed out that it has completed a decade with only one lost-time injury (a broken finger). In addition, crews have not spilled even a single drop of crude oil in longer than eight years. With the help of the well-trained and professional SIU crews, ATC has received the U.S. Coast Guard’s Benkert Award for environmental safety performance and community outreach, among other recognition in recent years. According to the email, “No other company in the world that runs only oil tankers has ever received this highest honor.” Superferry Update The U.S. Navy has set in motion an effort to purchase two high-speed ferries from the U.S. Maritime Administration. Congress has approved up to $35 million to acquire the ships, which eventually would become Department of Defense sealift vessels. The high-speed catamarans, which were crewed by Seafarers in the past, formerly were owned by Hawaii Superferry. The Alakai and the Huakai were built to move people and cars between the Hawaiian Islands. After some early growing pains, the operation itself was successful and well-regarded, but it was derailed two years ago because of legal and political fighting over an environmental impact study. MarAd moved the boats from Hawaii to Norfolk, Va., and bought them at an auction in 2010. New Website for Honolulu Sailors Home The Honolulu Sailors Home has announced the launch of its new website, www.honolulusailorshome.com. The Honolulu Sailors Home provides inexpensive lodging for mariners and others who need temporary housing when transferring vessels or who are otherwise displaced from their ships. The Honolulu Sailors Home Society, a non-profit organization, has been providing a place to stay for merchant mariners since 1857. The home has recently completed major renovations and offers 39 single-occupancy rooms starting at $22 a day. Additional Ferry Service a Hit The new SIU-crewed East River Ferry operation in New York has exceeded expectations through its first six months. According to recent news reports, the new service – owned by Billybey Ferry Company, which utilizes SIU-crewed NY Waterway boats – was projected to serve 409,000 riders per year. But, the ferry line already has transported nearly 500,000. The East River Ferry shuttles commuters, tourists and others between Brooklyn, Queens and Manhattan. It is also considered to be a potential cause of increased access and revamping of the Brooklyn, Queens, and eastern Manhattan waterfronts. The ferry service is part of a three-year pilot program with a goal of improving passenger trans- portation on New York’s waterways. Liberty Ship Offers Tours, Cruise The cruise season on the Chesapeake Bay will feature a rare vessel giving tours of the waters near Baltimore starting this summer. The S.S. John Brown is one of the last operational Liberty-class ships from the World War II-era. It serves as a museum and memorial to the merchant mariners, shipbuilders, and Navy soldiers who served aboard Liberty ships during World War II. In addition, the John Brown is fully restored and sea-ready, with its rebuilding kept as closely in line with its original state as possible. On June 16, July 21, and Sept. 8, the John Brown will take guests on a six-hour tour of the Chesapeake Bay with tours of the vessel, music from the 1940s, and flybys by World War II-era aircraft. (SIU members aboard the USNS Fisher and USNS Wright share a dock with the John W. Brown.) Tickets for this event cost $140 and are available by phone at 410-558-0164 or online at www.liberty-ship. com. American Victory ‘History Cruise’ A “Relive History Cruise” is scheduled for March 24 in Tampa, Fla., aboard the newly restored American Victory one of only four fully operational Victory-class World War II ships in the nation. Open to the public and sponsored by the Florida-based American Victory Ship Museum, the outing will commence at 10 a.m. and culminate at 4 p.m. In addition to the voyage itself, the event will feature reenactments, World War II-era aircraft flyovers and maritime ceremonies. Passengers will be treated to live entertainment, and wide array of food and beverages will be available for purchase. Tickets, priced at $110 per person, may be purchased online at www.ticketweb.com; by calling 1-866-468-7630; or in person aboard the American Victory. For more information, call the American Victory Ship Museum at (813) 228-8766. NFL Players: ‘Right to Work’ is Trick Play The National Football League Players Association in early January slammed so-called right-to-work legislation being pushed in Indiana, host state for this year’s Super Bowl (the game is in Indianapolis). In a written statement, the NFLPA said, “As NFL players, we know our success on the field comes from working together as a team. We’re not just a team of football players – we’re also the fans at games and at home, the employees who work the concession stands and the kids who wear the jerseys of our favorite football heroes. NFL players know what it means to fight for workers’ rights, better pensions and health and safety in the workplace…. “Right-to-work is a political ploy designed to destroy basic workers’ rights. It’s not about jobs or rights, and it’s the wrong priority for Indiana…. So-called right-to-work bills divide working families at a time when communities need to stand united. We need unity – not division. We urge legislators in Indiana to oppose right-to-work efforts, and focus instead on job creation.” Know Your Rights FINANCIAL REPORTS. The Constitution of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU makes specific provision for safeguarding the membership’s money and union finances. The constitution requires a detailed audit by certified public accountants every year, which is to be submitted to the membership by the secretary-treasurer. A yearly finance committee of rank-and-file members, elected by the membership, each year examines the finances of the union and reports fully their findings and recommendations. Members of this committee may make dissenting reports, specific recommendations and separate findings. TRUST FUNDS. All trust funds of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/ NMU are administered in accordance with the provisions of various trust fund agreements. All these agreements specify that the trustees in charge of these funds shall equally consist of union and management representatives and their alternates. All expenditures and disbursements of trust funds are made only upon approval by a majority of the trustees. All trust fund financial records are available at the headquarters of the various trust funds. SHIPPING RIGHTS. A member’s shipping rights and seniority are protected exclusively by contracts between the union and the employers. Members should get to know their shipping rights. Copies of these contracts are posted and available in all union halls. If members believe there have been violations of their shipping or seniority rights as contained in the contracts between the union and the employers, they should notify the Seafarers Appeals Board by certified mail, return receipt February 2012 10162_FEB_2012_LOG.indd 11 requested. The proper address for this is: Augustin Tellez, Chairman Seafarers Appeals Board 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 Full copies of contracts as referred to are available to members at all times, either by writing directly to the union or to the Seafarers Appeals Board. CONTRACTS. Copies of all SIU contracts are available in all SIU halls. These contracts specify the wages and conditions under which an SIU member works and lives aboard a ship or boat. Members should know their contract rights, as well as their obligations, such as filing for overtime (OT) on the proper sheets and in the proper manner. If, at any time, a member believes that an SIU patrolman or other union official fails to protect their contractual rights properly, he or she should contact the nearest SIU port agent. EDITORIAL POLICY — THE SEAFARERS LOG. The Seafarers LOG traditionally has refrained from publishing any article serving the political purposes of any individual in the union, officer or member. It also has refrained from publishing articles deemed harmful to the union or its collective membership. This established policy has been reaffirmed by membership action at the September 1960 meetings in all constitutional ports. The responsibility for Seafarers LOG policy is vested in an editorial board which consists of the executive board of the union. The executive board may delegate, from among its ranks, one individual to carry out this responsibility. PAYMENT OF MONIES. No monies are to be paid to anyone in any official capacity in the SIU unless an official union receipt is given for same. Under no circumstances should any member pay any money for any reason unless he is given such receipt. In the event anyone attempts to require any such payment be made without supplying a receipt, or if a member is required to make a payment and is given an official receipt, but feels that he or she should not have been required to make such payment, this should immediately be reported to union headquarters. CONSTITUTIONAL RIGHTS AND OBLIGATIONS. Copies of the SIU Constitution are available in all union halls. All members should obtain copies of this constitution so as to familiarize themselves with its contents. Any time a member feels any other member or officer is attempting to deprive him or her of any constitutional right or obligation by any methods, such as dealing with charges, trials, etc., as well as all other details, the member so affected should immediately notify headquarters. EQUAL RIGHTS. All members are guaranteed equal rights in employment and as members of the SIU. These rights are clearly set forth in the SIU Constitution and in the contracts which the union has negotiated with the employers. Consequently, no member may be discriminated against because of race, creed, color, sex, national or geographic origin. If any member feels that he or she is denied the equal rights to which he or she is entitled, the member should notify union headquarters. SEAFARERS POLITICAL ACTIVITY DONATION — SPAD. SPAD is a separate segregated fund. Its proceeds are used to further its objects and purposes including, but not limited to, furthering the political, social and economic interests of maritime workers, the preservation and furthering of the American merchant marine with improved employment opportunities for seamen and boatmen and the advancement of trade union concepts. In connection with such objects, SPAD supports and contributes to political candidates for elective office. All contributions are voluntary. No contribution may be solicited or received because of force, job discrimination, financial reprisal, or threat of such conduct, or as a condition of membership in the union or of employment. If a contribution is made by reason of the above improper conduct, the member should notify the Seafarers International Union or SPAD by certified mail within 30 days of the contribution for investigation and appropriate action and refund, if involuntary. A member should support SPAD to protect and further his or her economic, political and social interests, and American trade union concepts. NOTIFYING THE UNION — If at any time a member feels that any of the above rights have been violated, or that he or she has been denied the constitutional right of access to union records or information, the member should immediately notify SIU President Michael Sacco at headquarters by certified mail, return receipt requested. The address is: Michael Sacco, President Seafarers International Union 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 Seafarers LOG 11 1/25/2012 8:05:15 PM �WHAT’S NEW FOR 2011 Following are some of the changes that will take effect in 2011, along with changes that remain in effect from 2010. Please check www. irs.gov before filing your return. Due date of return - File Form 1040 by April 17, 2012. The due date is April 17, instead of April 15, because of the Emancipation Day holiday in the District of Columbia — even if you do not live in the District of Columbia. Capital Gains and Losses - In most cases, you must report your capital gains and losses on new Form 8949 and report the totals on Schedule D. If you sold a covered security in 2011, your broker will send you a Form 1099-B that shows your cost basis of that security. Generally a covered security is a security acquired after 2010. The broker also reports this information to the IRS. Refer to the IRS website at www.irs.gov/form8949 for additional information and other new developments affecting this form and Schedule D. Exemptions - The personal exemption and the dependency exemption increased to $3,700 for 2011. For tax year 2011, there is no phase-out of the exemption - you will no longer lose part of your deduction for personal exemptions and itemized deductions, regardless of the amount of your adjusted gross income (AGI). Divorced or Separated Parents - A custodial parent who revoked their previous release of a claim to a child’s exemption must include a copy of the revocation with their return. Standard Deductions – The standard deduction for married couples filing a joint return increased to $11,600 for 2011. The standard deduction for single individuals and married couples filing separate returns is now $5,800 for 2011. The standard deduction for heads of household increased to $8,500 for 2011. You can use the 2011 Standard Deduction Worksheet in chapter 20, Publication 17 to figure your standard deduction. Itemized Deductions - Overall income limits for itemized deductions do not apply in 2011. Before 2010 and until December 31, 2012, taxpayers whose incomes were above certain levels lost part of their itemized deductions. For taxpayers at all income levels, limitations continue to apply to particular itemized deductions, such as medical and dental expenses, certain miscellaneous itemized deductions and casualty and theft losses. Self-employed health insurance deduction - Effective March 30, 2010, if you were self-employed and paid for health insurance, you may be also able to include in your self-employed health insurance deduction any premiums you paid to cover your child who was under age 27 at the end of 2011, even if the child was not your dependent. However, for 2011 self-employed individuals can no longer deduct the cost of their health insurance premiums when calculating net earnings from self-employment for purposes of self-employment taxes. Making Work Pay Credit - The Making Work Pay Credit has expired. You cannot claim it on your 2011 return and Schedule M is no longer in use. Earned Income Credit (EIC) - The EIC is a credit for certain people who work. The credit may give you a refund even if you do not owe any tax. The maximum amount of income you can earn and credit available increased for 2011: n Credit of $5,751 if you have three or more qualifying children and you earn less than $43,998 ($49,078 if married filing jointly) n Credit of $5,112 if you have two qualifying children and you earn less than $40,964 ($46,044 if married filing jointly), n Credit of $3,094 if you have one qualifying child and you earn less than $36,052 ($41,132 if married filing jointly), or n Credit of $464 if you do not have a qualifying child and you earn less than $13,660 ($18,740 if married filing jointly). The maximum amount of investment income you can have and still get the credit has increased in 2011 to $3,150. You can no longer receive an advance Earned income credit on your paycheck. Social Security and Medicare Taxes - The maximum amount of wages subject to the Social Security tax for 2011 is $106,800. There is no limit on the amount of wages subject to the Medicare tax. Self-Employment Tax Rate and Deduction - For 2011, the Old Age, Survivors, and Disability Insurance portion of the SE tax is reduced by 2 percent from 12.4 percent to 10.4 percent. The Medicare portion of the SE tax remains 2.9 percent. As a result, the SE tax rate is reduced from 15.3 percent to 13.3 percent. For 2011, the SE tax deduction is revised to reflect an employer’s equivalent portion of tax. Previously, the deduction was equal to one-half of self-employment tax. Qualified Dividend and Capital Gains Tax Rate - The 0 percent and 15 percent maximum tax rates on qualified dividends and net capital gains remain in effect from last year. Adoption credit - The Affordable Care Act raises the maximum adoption credit to $13,360 per child, up from $13,170 in 2010. It also makes the credit refundable, meaning that eligible taxpayers can get it even if they owe no tax for that year. In general, the credit is based on the reasonable and necessary expenses related to a legal adoption, including adoption fees, court costs, attorney’s fees and travel expenses. Income limits and other special rules apply. In addition to filling out Form 8839, Qualified Adoption Expenses, eligible taxpayers must include with their 2011 tax returns one or more adoption-related documents. Child Tax Credit - The Tax Relief Act of 2010 extends for two additional years (2011 and 2012) the enhanced child tax credit of $1,000 maximum credit per child. This $1,000 credit is scheduled to expire at the end of 2012. Unless there’s further legislation, the child tax credit will revert to its previous maximum of $500 per child starting in the year 2013. For 2011 tax year the child tax credit starts to be reduced when income reaches the following levels: n $55,000 for married couples filing separately, n $75,000 for single, head of household, and qualifying widow(er) filers, and 12 Seafarers LOG 10162_FEB_2012_LOG.indd 12 n $110,000 for married couples filing jointly. In the phase-out range, the child tax credit is reduced by $50 for each $1,000 of income above these threshold amounts. The American Opportunity Tax Credit - For tax year 2011, the maximum credit amount can be up to $2,500 and up to $1,000 of that credit amount may be refundable. The credit applies to the first 4 years of post-secondary education in a degree or certificate program. The credit is calculated by taking 100 percent of the first $2,000 of qualified tuition and related educational expenses and $25 percent of the next $2,000 of such expenses. The credit is gradually reduced if your Modified AGI is: n $80,000 to $90,000 for Single, Head of Household, and Qualifying Widow(er) n $160,000 to $180,000 for Married Filing Joint The American Opportunity Tax Credit is extended under the 2010 Tax Relief Act through the end of 2012. Lifetime Learning Credit – For tax year 2011, the maximum credit amount per tax return can be up to $2,000. The credit is calculated by taking 20 percent of the educational expenses on the first $10,000 of qualified educational expenses. The credit is gradually reduced if you Modified AGI exceeds $51,000 ($102,000 if married filing joint return) and is completely eliminated if you Modified AGI exceeds $61,000 ($122,000 if married filing joint return). The credit cannot be claimed if your filing status is “married filing separately”. Tuition and Fees Deductions – This deduction was extended under the 2010 Tax Relief Act. For tax year 2011, you may be able to deduct up to $4,000 for taxpayers with AGI of $65,000 or less ($130,000 for joint filers) and $2,000 for taxpayers with AGI above $65,000 but less than or equal to $80,000 ($130,000 and $160,000, respectively, for joint filers) for qualified educational expenses paid for yourself, spouse or dependent even if you do not itemize deductions on Schedule A. Taxpayers who choose to claim the tuition and fees deduction must fill out and attach Form 8917. The resulting deduction is reported on Form 1040 Line 34 or Form 1040A Line 19. Expanded Definition of Qualified Expenses for Qualified Tuition Programs - Qualified higher education expenses generally include tuition, fees, room and board, and related expenses such as books and supplies. The expenses must be for educational in a degree, certificate, or similar program, at an eligible educational institution. An eligible educational institution includes most colleges, universities, and certain vocational schools. Educator Expenses – The deduction for eligible elementary and secondary school teachers of up to $250 per year ($500 if you and your spouse were both eligible educators) for expenses paid or incurred for books, certain supplies, computer and other equipment, and, supplementary materials used in the classroom has been extended for 2011 under the 2010 Tax Relief Act. This is the last year for the credit as it expires on December 31, 2011. State & Local Sales and Use Tax Deduction – The election to deduct state and local general sales and use taxes instead of state and local income taxes as an itemized deduction has been extended under the 2010 Tax Relief Act. Prior to the passage of the 2010 Tax Relief Act, the deduction for state and local general sales and use taxes was not available for tax years after 2009. Under the new tax act, this deduction is now extended to tax years 2010 and 2011. Individual Retirement Accounts: n Education IRAs (Coverdell Education Savings Account) – Taxpayers can contribute up to $2,000 each year to an Education IRA for a person under age 18. The contribution is not deductible. Earnings on the contribution will be distributed tax-free provided that they are used to pay the beneficiary’s postsecondary education expenses. n Traditional IRAs - The contribution limit to a traditional IRA in 2011 is $5,000 (increased to $6,000 for taxpayers age 50 or older at the end of 2011). Modified Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) phaseout range got 2011 is $56,000-$66,000 for single, head of household, $90,000-$110,000 for married couples filing jointly or qualifying widow(er), and less than $10,000 for married individuals filing separate returns when a taxpayer is covered by an employer’s retirement plan at any time during the year. n Roth IRAs - The maximum total yearly contribution that can be made by an individual to a Roth IRA is $5,000. If a taxpayer reaches age 50 before 2011, the most that can be contributed will be $6,000. Roth IRAs are subject to income limits. The maximum yearly contribution is phased out for single and head of household taxpayers with an Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) between $107,000 and $122,000, for joint filers and qualifying widow(er) with an AGI between $169,000 and $179,000, and married filing separate filers with an AGI between $0 an $10,000. Although the contributions are not deductible, the distributions may be tax-free depending on when and why they are made. n Roth IRAs - If you converted part or all or an IRA to a Roth IRA in 2010 and did not elect to report the taxable amount on your 2010 return you generally must report half of it on your 2011 return and the rest on your 2012 return. n Special Charitable Contributions for Certain IRA Owners - This provision, now available through the end of 2011, offers older owners of individual retirement accounts (IRAs) a different way to give to charity. An IRA owner age 70½ or over can directly transfer, tax-free, up to $100,000 per year to eligible charities. Known as a qualified charitable distribution (QCD), this option is available for distributions from IRAs, regardless of whether the owners itemize their deductions. Distributions from employer-sponsored retirement plans, including SIMPLE IRAs and simplified employee pension Continued on Page 14 TAX TIPS FO HOW TO PREPARE A TAX RETURN Step 1. Get all records together. n Income Records. These include any Forms W-2, W-2G and 1099. n Itemized deductions and tax credits. n Medical and dental payment records. n Real estate and personal property tax receipts. n Interest payment records for items such as a home mortgage or home equity loan. n Records of payments for child care so an individual could work. Step 2. Get any forms, schedules or publications necessary to assist in filing the return. IRS Publication 17 titled “Your Federal Income Tax for Individuals” is the most comprehensive guide the agency has issued this year. Most IRS offices and many local banks, post offices and libraries have publications designed to provide individuals with information on correctly filing tax returns. Also, you may access the IRS web site at www. irs.gov for forms, instructions and publications. Step 3. Fill in the return. Step 4. Check the return to make sure it is correct. Step 5. Sign and date the return. Form 1040 is not considered a valid return unless signed. A spouse must also sign if it is a joint return. Step 6. Attach all required forms and schedules. Attach Copy B of Forms W-2, W-2G and 1099-R to the front of the Form 1040. Attach all other schedules and forms behind Form 1040 in order of the attachment sequence number. If tax is owed, attach the payment to the front of Form 1040 along with Form 1040-V (original only). Write name, address, phone number, Social Security number and form number on your check or money order. Payment also can be made by credit card. You may use American Express, Discover, Visa or Master cards. To pay by credit card, call the toll-free number 1-888-8729829 or 1-888-729-1040 or visit web sites www.officialpayments.com/fed or www.pay1040.com. There is a fee charged based on the amount you are paying. Rounding Off to Whole Dollars: Cents may be rounded off to the nearest whole dollar on the tax return and schedules. To do so, raise amounts from 50 to 99 cents to the next dollar. For example, $1.39 becomes $1 and $1.50 becomes $2. Fast Refund: Taxpayers are able to request direct deposit of their tax refunds by filling out lines 74b, 74c and 74d on their Form 1040. Line 74b is for the bank’s routing number. Line 74c indicates the type of account, and line 74d is the taxpayer’s account number at the bank. When tax returns are filed electronically, a refund will be received in about 3 weeks, or in 2 weeks if it is deposited directly into a savings or checking account. For a charge, many professional tax return preparers offer electronic filing in addition to their return preparation services. Beginning in 2009, individuals that prepare his or her own return can access most commonly used Federal tax forms from the IRS website and directly submit cally. Free elect ger subject to an For more inform web site at: ww WHAT AR DEDUCTION Personal Ex The deduction f for the individu and dependents A child cannot c on his or her ret higher educatio parents claim a tion for their ch Standard D dard deduction, that reduces the increased for m jointly in 2011 t dard deduction and married cou returns is now $ deduction for he increased to $8, on this page). Personal In For 2011, perso deducted. Perso interest on car l sonal loans and Interest on S Deductible: In deduct all your est depending o mortgage, the a and how the pro terest paid on in percent deductib amount of inves each year. Any forward to the n Union Dues dues, including ductible only if of adjusted gros only the portion deductible. The deduct union du pense. Club Dues D duction is perm however, dues p public service o ductible for bus Deductions of Adjusted Gr include investm trustee’s admini expenses that ar able income, un expenses, safe d tax preparation Deducting W penses: Expen seaman’s work tax deductible. pense can be de seaman has bee employer. Trav to register or tr designated med the required ph are examples o work-related bu the company. M crew may dedu and other equip ally own but us performing the purchase of wo and other gear, for work and n STANDARD DEDUCTION This is the standard deduction chart for most people. If older or blind, there are additional standard deductions ($1, person or “spouse” or $1,450 for an unmarried person). No exemption deduction is $3,700. Filing Status S Single and Married filing separate .............................. Married filing joint return or qualifying widow(er) with dependent children................................................... Head of household........................................................... February 2012 1/25/2012 8:05:17 PM �S FOR MARINERS directly submit the forms electronically. Free electronic filing is no longer subject to any income limitations. For more information, visit the IRS web site at: www.irs.gov. WHAT ARE CONSIDERED DEDUCTIONS AND CREDITS Personal Exemption Amount: The deduction for each exemption— for the individual, his or her spouse and dependents is $3,700 per person. A child cannot claim an exemption on his or her return or qualify for a higher education credit if the child’s parents claim a dependency exemption for their child. Standard Deduction: The standard deduction, or dollar amount that reduces the amount that is taxed, increased for married couples filing jointly in 2011 to $11,600. The standard deduction for single individuals and married couples filing separate returns is now $5,800. The standard deduction for heads of household increased to $8,500 for 2011 (see box on this page). Personal Interest Deductions: For 2011, personal interest cannot be deducted. Personal interest includes interest on car loans, credit cards, personal loans and tax deficiencies. Interest on Secured Loans Deductible: In most cases you can deduct all your home mortgage interest depending on the date of your mortgage, the amount of the mortgage and how the proceeds were used. Interest paid on investments is also 100 percent deductible but limited to the amount of investment income earned each year. Any excess can be carried forward to the next year. Union Dues Deduction: Union dues, including working dues, are deductible only if they exceed 2 percent of adjusted gross income. If they do, only the portion over the 2 percent is deductible. The self-employed may deduct union dues as a business expense. Club Dues Deduction: No deduction is permitted for club dues; however, dues paid to professional or public service organizations are deductible for business reasons. Deductions Subject to 2 Percent of Adjusted Gross Income: These include investment advisory fees, trustee’s administrative fees, legal expenses that are paid to produce taxable income, unreimbursed employee expenses, safe deposit box rental and tax preparation fees. Deducting Work-Related Expenses: Expenses associated with a seaman’s work may be considered tax deductible. However, no expense can be deducted for which a seaman has been reimbursed by the employer. Travel to the union hall to register or travel to the union’s designated medical facility to take the required physical and drug tests are examples of expenses which are work-related but not reimbursed by the company. Members of the galley crew may deduct the costs of knives and other equipment they personally own but use when on a ship performing their work duties. The purchase of work-related clothing and other gear, as long as it is truly for work and not paid for by the em- RD DEDUCTION t for most people. If a taxpayer is 65 or ndard deductions ($1,150 for a married nmarried person). Note that the personal Standard Deduction ...................................................$ 5,800 ying widow(er) .....................................................$11,600 ......................................................$ 8,500 February 2012 10162_FEB_2012_LOG.indd 13 ployer, are likely to be considered tax-deductible. Deducting Work-Related Car Expenses: Use of a personally owned automobile in work-related travel can result in deductible expenses. Two methods can be used to compute automobile expenses—either listing a standard mileage rate or determining actual cost. On the tax return due April 17 of this year, the IRS is accepting a standard mileage rate. The rate for January 1 through June 30 , 2011 is 51 cents. The standard mileage rate increases to 55.5 cents per mile for July 1 through December 31, 2011. Parking fees and tolls can be added when using the standard mileage rate. If using actual expenses, information must be available on all operating-related costs for the vehicle, including insurance, licenses, maintenance, repairs, depreciation, gas, oil, tolls and parking. The IRS recommends keeping a log book or diary listing all expenses related to travel, for both the standard mileage rate and actual cost method, to ensure accurate records. Only work-related expenses not reimbursed by an employer can be claimed. Deducting Work-Related Meals When Traveling: You can use a special standard meal allowance if you work in the transportation industry. You are in the transportation industry if your work: n Directly involves moving people or goods by airplane, barge, bus, ship, train, or truck, and n Regularly requires you to travel away from home and, during any single trip, usually involves travel to areas eligible for different standard meal allowance rates. If this applies to you, you can claim a standard meal allowance of $59 a day ($65 for travel outside the continental United States) from January 1 through December 31, 2011. Using special rates for transportation workers eliminates the need for you to determine the standard meal allowance for every area where you stop for sleep or rest. If you choose to use the special rate for any trip, you must use the special rate for (and not use the regular standard meals allowance rates) for all trips you take that year. Dependent’s Social Security Number: Each dependent must have a Social Security number (SSN). Individuals may get a SSN for their dependent by filing Form SS-5 with their local Social Security Administration office or calling the Administration at 1-800-772-1213. It usually takes about two weeks to receive a SSN. Additional (Refundable) Child Tax Credit – This credit is for certain individuals who get less than the full amount of the child tax credit. The additional child tax credit may give you a refund even if you do not owe any tax. Student Loan Interest: Taxpayers may be able to deduct up to $2,500 of interest paid for qualified education expenses for oneself, spouse or dependents. The deduction is allowed in figuring adjusted gross income. OTHER TAX INFORMATION Private Delivery Services: Tax returns and extensions can be mailed through private delivery services such as DHL Worldwide Express, Federal Express and United Parcel Service. Forms of Payments: One can pay the Internal Revenue Service through credit cards, debit cards, charge cards, bank check or money order. If you file your return electronically you may be able to make your payment electronically. WHICH RECORDS TO KEEP Keep records of income (such as receipts), deductions (for example, canceled checks) and credits shown on the tax return, as well as any worksheets used to figure them, until the statute of limitations runs out for that return, usually 3 years from the date the return was due or filed, or 2 years from the date the tax was paid, whichever is later. However, it is recommended that all records be kept for about 6 years. Some records should be kept even longer. For example, keep property records (your home, stocks) as long as they are needed to figure the basis of property. Change of Address: If an individual has changed his or her address from the one listed on that person’s last tax return, IRS Form 8822 should be filled out and filed with the agency. Death of a Taxpayer: If a taxpayer died before filing a required return for 2011, the taxpayer’s personal representative (and spouse, in the case of a joint return) must file and sign the return for that person. A personal representative can be an executor, administrator or anyone who is in charge of the taxpayer’s property. WHICH INCOME TO REPORT In addition to wages, salaries, tips, unemployment compensation, capital gains, dividend payments and other income listed on the federal tax return, the following kinds of income must be reported: n Jones Act settlements for lost wages. n Amounts received in place of wages from accident and health plans (including sick pay and disability pensions) if employer paid for the policy. n Life insurance proceeds from a policy cashed in if the proceeds are more than the premium paid. n Canceled debts. n State income tax refunds. n Rents. n Repayments. n Royalties. n Unemployment benefits n Profits from corporations, partnerships, estates and trusts. n Endowments. n Original Issue Discount. n Distributions from self-employed plans. n Bartering income (fair-market value of goods or services received in return for services). n Tier 2 and supplemental annuities under the Railroad Retirement Act. n Lump-sum distributions. n Gains from the sale or exchange (including barter) of real estate, securities, coins, gold, silver, gems or other property (capital gains). n Accumulation distributions from trusts. n Prizes and awards (contests, raffles, lottery and gambling winnings). n Earned income from sources outside the United States. n Director’s fees. n Fees received as an executor or administrator of an estate. n Embezzled or other illegal income. WHICH INCOME NEED NOT BE REPORTED The following kinds of income do not need to be reported on the federal tax return: n Benefits from government welfare programs. n Jones Act settlements for injuries, pain, suffering, and medical costs. n Maintenance and Cure. n Workers’ compensation benefits, insurance, damages, etc. for injury or sickness. n Disability retirement payments (and other benefits) paid by the Veterans’ Administration. n Child support. n Gifts, money or other property inherited or willed. n Dividends on veterans’ life insurance. n Life insurance proceeds received because of a person’s death. n Amounts received from insurance because of loss of the use of a home due to fire or other casualty to the extent the amounts were more than the cost of normal expenses while living in the home. n Certain amounts received as a scholarship. FILING AN EXTENSION Taxpayers can get an automatic 6-month extension if, no later than April 17, 2012, Form 4868 will be filed with the IRS. It is important to remember that a 6-month extension to file does not extend the time to pay the taxes. Form 4868, when sent in, must be accompanied by all tax monies due to the U.S. government. WHERE IS MY REFUND? If taxpayers have not received a refund check within 28 days from the original IRS mailing date, information can be accessed through the web site at www.irs.gov. To get the refund status, taxpayers will need to provide the information from their tax returns. You should know your Social Security Number (or IRS Individual Taxpayer Identification Number), Filing Status (Single, Married Filing Joint Return, Married Filing Separate Return, Head of Household, or Qualifying Widow(er)) and the Refund amount. It is important to enter the refund amount exactly as it is shown on your return. WHY SEAFARERS MUST PAY STATE INCOME TAX Federal law prohibits employers from withholding state and local taxes from the wages of mariners working aboard U.S.-flag ships. Specifically, the law [46 USCA 11108(11) ] provides that “no part of the wages due or accruing to a master, officer or any other seaman who is a member of the crew on a vessel engaged in the foreign, coastwise, intercoastal, interstate or non-contiguous trade shall be withheld pursuant to the provisions of the tax laws of any state, territory, possession or commonwealth, or a subdivision of any of them, but OVERSEAS AT TAX TIME Should Seafarers find themselves overseas and seeking IRS forms or assistance, U.S. embassies and consulates are equipped to provide some taxpayer-related services. At a minimum, IRS forms are available at all U.S. embassies and consulates located in: Berlin, Germany; Caracas, Venezuela; London, England; Mexico City, Mexico; Nassau, Bahamas; Ottawa, Canada; Paris, France; Riyadh, Saudi Arabia; Rome, Italy; Sao Paulo, Brazil; Sydney, Australia; and Tokyo, Japan. nothing in this section shall prohibit any such withholding of the wages of any seaman who is employed in the coastwise trade between ports in the same state if such withholding is pursuant to a voluntary agreement between such seaman and his employer.” The law, however, does not exempt seamen from paying state and local taxes. Mariners, just like any other citizens of any given state, must meet their obligations to the government of the area in which they live. Each state has a set of criteria to determine whether an individual is a resident of that state. A seaman should check with a state tax office if he or she is unsure about residency status. For example, in California during the early 1970s, a case before the California State Board of Equalization stated that a merchant seaman—despite the fact that he was on a ship for 210 days of the year—was a resident of the state for tax purposes. The board took into consideration the fact that the seaman owned a home in California and maintained a bank account in a California-based bank. Additionally, each state has established conditions under which non-residents of that state must pay a portion of state tax if such an individual earned income from a source based in that state. Many states allow a credit in the amount an individual must pay the state if that person has already paid taxes in another state. In 2000, President Clinton signed into law the bipartisan Transportation Worker Tax Fairness Act, a measure aimed at providing “equitable treatment with respect to state and local income taxes for certain individuals who perform duties on vessels.” The law, which took effect Nov. 9, 2000, stipulates that pilots and other mariners “who perform regularly assigned duties while engaged as a master, officer or crewman on a vessel operating on the navigable waters of more than one State” shall be subject to state income tax only in his or her residential state. If any questions arise regarding residency and state tax issues, mariners should telephone the taxpayer assistance office in the state in which they reside. WHERE TO GET INFORMATION General Information: 1-800-829-1040 may be called for general information between 7:00 am and 10:00 pm your local time. Publications: Call 1-800-829-3676 to order current and prior year forms, instructions and publications. Walk-In Help: IRS representatives are available in many IRS offices around the country to help with tax questions that cannot be answered easily by telephone. To find the location of an IRS office, look in the phone book under “United States Government, Internal Revenue Service.” Telephone Help: The IRS is prepared to answer questions by phone. Through the agency’s taxpayer information service, publications covering all aspects of tax-filing can be ordered. The federal Tele-Tax system has recorded tax information covering about 150 topics. 1-800-829-4477 is the IRS’s automated Tele-Tax system. When calling from a touch tone phone, the number “9” will repeat the topic and the number “2” will cancel the topic. To listen to a directory of topics after the introductory message finishes, dial 123. You can also check the status of your refund. This telephone service is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Personal Computer: Access the IRS’s internet web site at www.irs.gov to: download forms, instructions and publications; see answers to frequently asked tax questions; search publications on-line by topic or keyword; figure your withholding allowances using their W-4 calculator, check the status of your refund, send the IRS comments or requests for help via e-mail; and sign up to receive local and national tax news by e-mail. Send IRS Written Questions: Written questions regarding the tax returns can be sent directly to an IRS District Director (listed on the tax form). Include a Social Security number with the letter. Seafarers LOG 13 1/25/2012 8:05:18 PM �Snapshots from The Union-Crewed USNS Soderman Recertified Bosun James Orlanda sent these recent photos of fellow mariners aboard the USNS Soderman. Taken in South Korea, the images show Seafarers prepping for and participating in various safety drills aboard the LMSR, as well as celebrating a shipboard safety award. The vessel is operated by Ocean Ships, Inc. 2011 Tax Season Ushers in Assorted Noteworthy Changes Continued from Page 12 (SEP) plans, are not eligible to be treated as a qualified charitable distribution. To qualify, the funds must be contributed directly by the IRA trustee to an eligible charity. Amounts so transferred are not taxable and no deduction is available for the transfer. Not all charities are eligible. For example, donor-advised funds and supporting organizations are not eligible recipients. Remember to check eligibility of the charity before requesting a QCD. All QCDs from an IRA to eligible charities are counted in determining whether the owner has met the IRA’s required minimum distribution. Where individuals have made nondeductible contributions to their traditional IRAs, a special rule treats QCD amounts as coming first from taxable funds, instead of proportionately from taxable and nontaxable funds, as would be the case with regular distributions. Foreign Financial Assets - If you had foreign financial assets in 2011, you may have to file new Form 8938 with your return. Repayment of First-time homebuyer credit- If you have to repay the credit, you may be able to do so without attaching Form 5405. Mortgage Insurance Premiums - Mortgage insurance premiums for qualified mortgage insurance on debt to acquire, construct, or improve a first or second residence can potentially be treated as deductible qualified residence interest. Before the 2010 Tax Relief Act, this break was only available for premiums paid through 2010. The Act extends the break to cover premiums paid through 2011. If your AGI exceeds $100,000 ($50,000 if married filing separate) your deduction may be reduced or eliminated. Nonbusiness Energy Property Credit - This credit is available for property place in service in 2011, but with new limitations. The credit now has a lifetime limit of $500, of which only $200 may be used for windows. Nonbusiness energy property credit allowance of credit- This credit still consists of qualified energy efficiency improvements and residential energy property costs, but it is figured differently. Sub- 14 Seafarers LOG 10162_FEB_2012_LOG.indd 14 ject to the lifetime limits, only 10 percent of qualified energy efficiency improvements are allowed. Subject to the lifetime limits, the residential energy property cost are limited to $300 for energy-efficient building property, $150 for any qualified natural gas, propane, or oil furnace or hot water boiler, and $50 for any advanced main air circulating fan. Residential Energy Efficient Property Credit – This credit remains unchanged from 2009 and equals 30 percent of what a homeowner spends on qualifying property such as solar electric systems, solar hot water heaters, geothermal heat pumps, wind turbines, and fuel cell property. Generally, labor costs are included when calculating this credit. Also, no cap exists on the amount of credit available except in the case of fuel cell property, which is $500 for each one half kilowatt of capacity. Eligible homeowners can claim both of these credits when they file their 2011 federal income tax return. Standard mileage rates - The IRS raised the standard mileage rates for the last six months of 2011 to 55.5 cents per mile for business miles driven and 23.5 cents per mile for medical or moving expenses—both a 4.5 cent per mile increase over the rates in effect for the first six months of the year. The rate for providing services for a charity is set by statute and equals 14 cents per mile. Deduction for corrosive drywall You may be able to claim a casualty loss deduction for amounts you paid to repair damage to your home and household appliances that resulted from corrosive drywall. The deduction is limited if you have a pending claim for reimbursement (or intend to pursue reimbursement) through property insurance, litigation, or other means. Personal Casualty & Theft Loss This loss remains unchanged from 2010. The loss is limited to the excess of the loss over $100. The 10 percent of AGI limit still applies. Foreign Earned Income Exclusion - For tax year 2011, the maximum foreign earned income exclusion amount is $92,900. This amount is up $1,400 from tax year 2010. The Alternative Minimum Tax (AMT) Exemption – AMT exemptions have been temporarily increased for the years 2010 and 2011 (but not for 2012). Exemption amounts help prevent some middle income earners from being subject to the AMT, and helps keep any AMT adjustments less than they otherwise might have been. For tax year 2011, the alternative minimum tax exemption increases to the following levels: n $74,450 for a married couple filing a joint return and qualifying widows and widowers, up from $72,450 in 2010. n $37,225 for a married person filing separately, up from $36,225. n $48,450 for singles and heads of household, up from $47,450. The act further helps individual taxpayers facing potential AMT by allowing individuals to offset their regular and AMT liability with nonrefundable personal tax credits for the year. Uniform Definition of a Qualifying Child -To be claimed as a qualifying child, the person must meet four criteria: n Relationship - the person must be your child, step child, adopted child, foster child, brother or sister, or a descendant of one of these (for example, a grandchild or nephew). n Residence - for more than half the year, the person must have the same residence as you do. n Age - the person must be under age 19 at the end of the year, or under age 24 and be a full-time student for at least five months out of the year, or any age and totally and permanently disabled. n Support - the person did not provide more than half of his or her own support during the year. Consumer Alert - The IRS warns taxpayers to be on the alert for e-mails and phone calls they may receive which claim to come from the IRS or other federal agency and which mention their tax refund or economic stimulus payment. These are almost certainly a scam whose purpose is to obtain personal and financial information — such as name, Social Security number, bank account and credit card or even PIN numbers — from taxpayers which can be used by the scammers to commit identity theft. The e-mails and calls usually state that the IRS needs the information to process a refund or stimulus payment or deposit it into the taxpayer’s bank account. The e-mails often contain links or attachments to what appears to be the IRS Website or an IRS “refund application form.” However genuine in appearance, these phonies are designed to elicit the information the scammers are looking for. The IRS does not send taxpayers emails about their tax accounts. Also, the IRS does not request detailed personal information through email or ask taxpayers for the PIN numbers, passwords, or similar secret access information for their credit card, bank, or other financial accounts. If you receive an unsolicited email claiming to be from the IRS, forward the message to: phishing@irs.gov. You may also report misuse of the IRS name, logo, forms or other IRS property to the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration toll-free at 1-800-366-4484 or TTY/TDD 1-800-877-8339. You can forward suspicious emails to the Federal Trade Commission at: spam@uce.gov or contact them at www.ftc.gov/idtheft or 1-877-IDTHEFT (1-877-438-4338).Visit IRS.gov and enter “identity theft” in the search box to learn more about identity theft and how to reduce your risk. If your tax records are affected by identity theft and you receive a notice from the IRS, respond right away to the name and phone number printed on the IRS notice or letter. If your tax records are not currently affected by identity theft but you think you are at risk due to a lost or stolen purse or wallet, questionable credit card activity or credit report, etc., contact the IRS Identity Protection Specialized Unit at 1-800-9084490 or submit Form 14039. For more information, see Publication 4535, Identity Theft Prevention and Victim Assistance. Victims of identity theft who are experiencing economic harm or a systemic problem, or are seeking help in resolving tax problems that have not been resolved through normal channels, may be eligible for Taxpayer Advocate Service (TAS) assistance. You can reach TAS by calling the National Taxpayer Advocate helpline tollfree case intake line at 1-877-777-4778 or TTY/TDD 1-800-829-4059. February 2012 1/25/2012 9:12:08 PM �SHBP Boosts Some Benefits, Notifies Plan Participants Of Adjustments via Mail The Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan (SHBP) in early January wrote to participants concerning increases and other adjustments to various benefits. The letter to participants also contained a reminder about the SHBP’s policy regarding overpayment of claims. Increase of annual limits Seafarers Plans Administrator Maggie Bowen noted in the individually mailed letter that, in accordance with the Affordable Care Act, effective Jan. 1, 2012, the Plan has increased its annual limits for cardiac rehabilitation and pediatric preventive dental care to $1.25 million apiece. Pediatric preventive dental care includes all preventive dental services provided to participants under age 19, but does not include orthodontia, the administrator pointed out. Additionally, as of March 1 of this year, the SHBP will change the respective allowances for the purchase or rental of durable medical equipment that is required by eligible employees. (Durable medical equipment, according to the letter, includes prosthetic devices, medical appliances, and similar items.) Currently, the Plan pays 70 percent of the reasonable and customary charges for such equipment regardless of whether or not the gear comes from an in-network provider. As of March 1, the Plan will pay 80 percent of the charges allowed by the network if an eligible employee rents or purchases the item or items from an in-network provider. For out-of-network purchases and rentals, the covered percentage will be 65 percent of reasonable and customary charges. This change brings the benefit in line with most others offered through the SHBP. Overpaid Claims Policy Finally, the letter reminds participants of the Plan’s policy on overpaid claims. In the event the Plan pays too much to a health care provider (more than that to which they’re entitled under Plan rules), the SHBP will solicit a refund of the overpayment. If the provider refuses, the Plan has the right to deduct the overpaid amount from future payments to the same provider for other services received by the same eligible participant. As indicated in the letter, individuals with questions about these benefits and policies may contact the Plan at 1-800252-4674. March & April Membership Meetings Piney Point...............................Monday: March 5, April 2 Algonac.......................................Friday: March 9, April 6 Baltimore................................Thursday: March 8, April 5 Guam..................................Thursday: March 22, April 19 Honolulu.................................Friday: March 16, April 13 Houston...................................Monday: March 12, April 9 Jacksonville............................Thursday: March 8, April 5 Joliet...................................Thursday: March 15, April 12 Mobile.............................Wednesday: March 14, April 11 New Orleans.............................Tuesday: March 13, April 10 New York................................Tuesday: March 6, April 3 Norfolk...................................Thursday: March 8, April 5 Oakland..............................Thursday: March 15, April 12 Philadelphia........................Wednesday: March 7, April 4 Port Everglades..................Thursday: March 15, April 12 San Juan.................................Thursday: March 8, April 5 St. Louis..................................Friday: March 16, April 13 Tacoma....................................Friday: March 23, April 20 Wilmington..............................Monday: March 19, April 16 ATTENTION: SEAFARERS Contribute to SPAD (Seafarers Political Action Donation) February 2012 10162_FEB_2012_LOG.indd 15 Dispatchers’ Report for Deep Sea December 16, 2011 - January 15, 2012 Port Total Registered All Groups A B C Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS 16 1 2 14 5 10 49 28 1 12 17 51 16 31 8 1 11 32 3 29 337 6 2 7 14 7 3 10 28 6 2 2 18 13 11 3 1 11 15 5 17 181 1 1 1 1 0 1 5 5 0 0 0 2 6 0 0 0 2 1 0 4 30 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS 5 0 7 10 2 11 17 17 1 9 4 13 12 7 1 2 3 16 1 4 142 1 1 2 7 0 4 11 20 0 2 3 7 26 16 2 2 5 10 3 14 136 2 1 0 0 0 1 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 7 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Seattle St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS 2 0 5 6 3 8 17 14 0 6 5 17 13 21 6 1 4 17 1 25 171 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS GRAND TOTALS: Total Shipped All Groups A B Registered on Beach All Groups A B C C Trip Reliefs 0 0 1 0 0 0 2 1 1 0 1 0 1 1 1 0 1 1 0 3 14 0 1 0 10 0 0 9 11 1 1 8 20 2 8 2 0 1 20 0 13 107 31 2 9 26 9 26 93 57 5 22 18 79 24 56 11 1 16 63 3 61 612 12 3 12 16 6 10 28 47 7 7 4 29 34 18 4 1 16 28 4 35 321 3 1 0 8 0 1 9 7 0 1 3 8 10 2 0 0 3 7 0 10 73 Engine Department 3 0 0 1 4 2 5 5 0 1 7 3 8 6 14 11 1 2 4 1 2 1 8 6 9 13 6 4 1 1 0 0 1 4 10 7 2 0 7 11 92 79 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 3 5 0 0 0 1 0 3 3 2 0 0 0 6 4 3 1 0 0 9 0 9 41 6 0 9 14 3 20 28 45 1 14 7 26 27 22 2 2 6 23 3 19 277 4 0 6 11 0 6 21 41 1 3 4 12 30 24 7 2 14 18 4 29 237 3 1 0 2 0 1 2 0 0 1 1 5 1 1 0 0 0 1 0 7 26 3 0 0 3 3 1 8 7 2 3 1 1 10 3 1 2 1 6 1 2 58 Steward Department 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 2 1 0 12 2 0 2 2 0 3 1 0 10 5 1 16 4 0 0 0 0 3 3 0 2 3 0 20 1 4 3 12 1 15 2 0 2 1 0 3 1 0 0 1 1 9 1 0 0 1 1 18 2 8 120 44 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 4 1 0 1 4 0 1 4 5 0 1 2 9 5 9 1 2 1 4 0 6 56 3 0 7 11 4 16 32 29 1 8 11 25 23 29 6 3 7 29 2 47 293 3 1 2 7 1 5 10 8 3 2 1 7 15 5 0 2 1 10 1 2 86 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 1 0 2 2 0 0 0 1 0 1 8 4 0 1 1 0 1 3 3 0 0 2 4 0 5 0 0 1 6 0 3 34 13 2 3 9 4 6 10 22 2 5 0 20 14 13 1 4 0 8 3 13 152 Entry Department 4 0 1 0 0 1 1 1 3 1 1 7 0 0 0 10 2 5 3 3 6 13 3 8 1 0 0 2 2 3 2 1 1 9 4 12 15 0 11 4 3 7 3 0 0 26 0 5 0 0 1 6 3 4 0 0 1 7 3 13 107 26 89 2 0 1 0 0 6 0 5 1 2 3 10 5 1 1 29 1 1 0 4 72 0 0 1 1 0 3 1 1 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 1 3 0 2 14 5 0 0 0 0 6 5 4 1 0 2 13 1 6 0 0 2 8 0 8 61 20 3 4 14 6 14 31 38 2 7 5 50 42 31 2 5 1 24 2 41 342 7 3 3 4 1 7 9 26 1 1 3 29 41 12 2 7 2 12 0 22 192 684 527 152 95 218 1,243 986 299 Deck Department 0 3 0 0 5 4 13 9 2 3 3 1 30 9 21 12 1 4 8 2 13 4 25 17 12 18 14 4 3 2 0 1 5 4 25 12 3 2 23 13 206 124 444 336 Seafarers LOG 15 1/25/2012 8:05:22 PM �Inquiring Seafarer Seafarers International Union Directory Michael Sacco, President Augustin Tellez, Executive Vice President David Heindel, Secretary-Treasurer George Tricker, Vice President Contracts Tom Orzechowski, Vice President Lakes and Inland Waters Dean Corgey, Vice President Gulf Coast Nicholas J. Marrone, Vice President West Coast Joseph T. Soresi, Vice President Atlantic Coast Kermett Mangram, Vice President Government Services HEADQUARTERS 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746 (301) 899-0675 ALGONAC 520 St. Clair River Dr., Algonac, MI 48001 (810) 794-4988 Editor’s note: This month’s question, asked of SIU members at the union-affiliated Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md., is: What’s your New Year’s resolution? litically active this year. My New Year’s resolution is to volunteer for candidates I like and get more involved in the political process. This year is especially important to know about what’s going on. If you don’t get involved, you don’t have any control over what’s going on with the country and your future. Joselito Vincente OS My resolution is to get a house this year. I’m looking to get some more hours on the job, work more days, and save up money so I can finally buy a house. to upgrade at the school and make more money. ANCHORAGE 721 Sesame St., #1C, Anchorage, AK 99503 (907) 561-4988 Ken Sumner QMED I want to be more po- BALTIMORE 2315 Essex St., Baltimore, MD 21224 (410) 327-4900 Ryan Vandergriff AB I don’t really have a New Year’s resolution, but I am really looking forward to getting my A-book this year. Getting my book is going to lead to better pay and more work on better ships. I’m looking for- ward to moving on with my career. Darryl McCoy SA My New Year’s resolution is to have a successful and beautiful year, both financially and mentally. I’m looking forward to being a chief cook this year; that’s why I’m here at the school. I think becoming a chief cook will help with both of my goals. GUAM P.O. Box 3328, Hagatna, Guam 96932 Cliffline Office Ctr. Bldg., Suite 103B 422 West O’Brien Dr., Hagatna, Guam 96910 (671) 477-1350 HONOLULU 606 Kalihi St., Honolulu, HI 96819 (808) 845-5222 HOUSTON 1221 Pierce St., Houston, TX 77002 (713) 659-5152 JACKSONVILLE 5100 Belfort Rd., Jacksonville, FL 32256 (904) 281-2622 JOLIET 10 East Clinton St., Joliet, IL 60432 (815) 723-8002 Armando Vincente SA This year’s resolution is the same, in a way. I’ve still got bills to pay so I’m looking for more work. You could also say that my resolution is Pic-From-The-Past MOBILE 1640 Dauphin Island Pkwy, Mobile, AL 36605 (251) 478-0916 NEW ORLEANS 3911 Lapalco Blvd., Harvey, LA 70058 (504) 328-7545 NEW YORK 635 Fourth Ave., Brooklyn, NY 11232 (718) 499-6600 Government Services Division: (718) 499-6600 NORFOLK 115 Third St., Norfolk, VA 23510 (757) 622-1892 OAKLAND 1121 7th St., Oakland, CA 94607 (510) 444-2360 PHILADELPHIA 2604 S. 4 St., Philadelphia, PA 19148 (215) 336-3818 PINEY POINT P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674 (301) 994-0010 PORT EVERGLADES 1221 S. Andrews Ave., Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33316 (954) 522-7984 SANTURCE 1057 Fernandez Juncos Ave., Stop 16 Santurce, PR 00907 (787) 721-4033 ST. LOUIS/ALTON 4581 Gravois Ave., St. Louis, MO 63116 (314) 752-6500 TACOMA 3411 South Union Ave., Tacoma, WA 98409 (253) 272-7774 WILMINGTON 510 N. Broad Ave., Wilmington, CA 90744 (310) 549-4000 This photo from the archives shows members in the chow line at the New York hall during the general strike of 1946 – believed to have been the first general strike in maritime history. The union’s efforts were successful, as the U.S. Wage Stabilization Board, on orders from President Truman, approved SIU agreements with various companies. If anyone has a vintage union-related photograph he or she would like to share with other Seafarers LOG readers, please send it to the Seafarers LOG, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. Photographs will be returned, if so requested. High-resolution digital images may be sent to webmaster@seafarers.org 16 Seafarers LOG 10162_FEB_2012_LOG.indd 16 February 2012 1/25/2012 8:05:26 PM �Welcome Ashore Each month, the Seafarers LOG pays tribute to the SIU members who have devoted their working lives to sailing aboard U.S.-flag vessels on the deep seas, inland waterways or Great Lakes. Listed below are brief biographical sketches of those members who recently retired from the union. The brothers and sisters of the SIU thank those members for a job well done and wish them happiness and good health in the days ahead. DEEP SEA PETER CIDDIO Brother Peter Ciddio, 71, signed on with the union in 1997 while in San Francisco. In 2002, the steward department member attended classes at the Seafarersaffiliated school in Piney Point. Brother Ciddio’s first voyage was aboard the USNS Silas Bent; his last was on the Ocean Charger. He settled in San Francisco. RAFAEL CLEMENTE Brother Rafael Clemente, 65, donned the SIU colors in 1968. His earliest trip was on the Burbank Victory. Brother Clemente was born in Puerto Rico and was a frequent upgrader at the Paul Hall Center. His most recent trip was aboard the Golden State. Brother Clemente, who sailed in the deck department, lives in Chesapeake, Va. SISTO DEANDA Brother Sisto Deanda, 65, started sailing with the union in 1980 in Wilmington, Calif. He upgraded in 2001 at the Piney Point school. Brother Deanda shipped in the steward department. He initially worked on the Delta Caribe. Brother Deanda’s final trip was aboard the Liberty Glory. He calls Abilene, Texas, home. BUENAVEN GUTIERREZ Brother Buenaven Gutierrez, 70, was born in the Philippines. He joined the union in 1972 while in the port of San Francisco. Brother Gutierrez originally sailed on the Santa Mercedes. The steward department member’s final trip was aboard the Mahi-Mahi. Brother Gutierrez resides in California. MICHAEL KADDERLY Brother Michael Kadderly, 55, signed on with the Seafarers in 1979. He first worked with El Paso Southern Tanker Company. In 1981 and 1990, Brother Kadderly took advantage of educational opportunities at the SIU-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. His final voyage was on the Green Ridge. Brother Kadderly was born in Portland, Ore., and sailed in the deck department. He continues to make his home in Oregon. February 2012 10162_FEB_2012_LOG.indd 17 STANLEY KRAWCYNSKI Brother Stanley Krawcynski, 84, became an SIU member in 1952. His earliest voyage was aboard an Ore Navigation Corporation vessel. Brother Krawcynski last sailed on the Carolina. He was a member of the deck department. Brother Krawcynski calls Orange City, Fla., home. ABRAHAM MEDINA Brother Abraham Medina, 68, began sailing with the union in 1988. He attended classes on numerous occasions at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. Brother Medina, who sailed in the steward and deck departments, most recently shipped aboard the Sunshine State. He was born in Puerto Rico and now is a resident of Fedhaven, Fla. BURLIN PINION EDWARD BARTHOLMEY Brother Edward Bartholmey, 62, joined the SIU in 1978. He sailed with G&H Towing for the duration of his career. Brother Bartholmey continues to live in his native state of Texas. EDWARD BROOKS Brother Edward Brooks, 55, became a Seafarer in 1982 while in Piney Point, Md. His first vessel was operated by Z Point Shipping. Brother Brooks was born in Queens, N.Y. His most recent trip was with Crowley Towing and Transportation of Wilmington. Brother Brooks calls Chula Vista, Calif., home. Brother Burlin Pinion, 65, donned the SIU colors in 1964. His earliest trip was on the Overseas Joyce. Brother Pinion often attended classes at the Paul Hall Center. His most recent trip was aboard the Blue Ridge. Brother Pinion sailed in the deck department and lives in Springfield, La. DANIEL HAYES Brother Daniel Hayes, 62, joined the SIU ranks in 1995. He was primarily employed with Penn Mari- CAROLYN THIFAULT Sister Carolyn Thifault, 69, started sailing with the SIU in 1990. She first sailed on the USNS Wright. In 1993, Sister Thifault attended classes at the Piney Point school to enhance her seafaring abilities. She shipped in the steward department. Sister Thifault last sailed aboard the Shughart. She resides in Dandridge, Tenn. AYHAN UNLUSU Brother Ayhan Unlusu, 67, signed on with the union in 1995 while in the port of Fort Lauderdale, Fla. His first trip was on the Independence; his last was aboard the Maersk Georgia. Brother Unlusu was born in Turkey and sailed in the deck department. He is a resident of Jacksonville, Fla. RAYMOND MADDOCK Brother Raymond Maddock, 55, began sailing with the union in 1985 while in the port of Norfolk, Va. The deck department member upgraded in 2001 at the maritime training center in Piney Point, Md. Brother Maddock’s earliest trip was on the USNS Stalwart. He most recently shipped aboard the Liberty Island. Brother Maddock settled in Zuni, Va. NATIONAL MARITIME UNION CLARK DANIELS Brother Clark Daniels, 65, started shipping with the SIU in 2001 when the NMU merged into the Seafarers International Union. He worked in the engine department. Brother Daniel’s final voyage was aboard the Green Lake. He resides in Baxter, Ky. the SIU ranks in 2001 as the NMU was merging into the SIU. He was born in Los Angeles. In 2001, Brother Rogers attended classes at the Paul Hall Center. He now lives in Fresno, Calif. RANDOLPH SANDERS Brother Randolph Sanders, 55, became an SIU member in 2001 during the SIU/ NMU merger. The steward department member mainly sailed with Keystone Shipping on vessels such as the Chelsea and the Delaware Trader. Brother Sanders upgraded his skills in 2001 at the Piney Point school. He calls Boston home. ROBERT ROGERS Brother Robert Rogers, 65, joined This Month In SIU History ALI SHAIBI Brother Ali Shaibi, 56, was born in Yemen. He joined the SIU ranks in 1981. Brother Shaibi initially sailed aboard CSX Lines vessels. He upgraded in 1997 at the unionaffiliated school in Piney Point, Md. Brother Shaibi’s final ship was the North Star. He sailed in all three shipboard departments and makes his home in Rochester, N.Y. time Inc. Brother Hayes makes his home in Fort Myers, Fla. INLAND Editor’s note: The following items are reprinted from previous editions of the Seafarers LOG. 1944 In the midst of World War II, a war in which the merchant marine suffers greater proportional causalities than any of the military services, the Maritime War Emergency Board has proposed a cut in pay for merchant seamen. Although the average wage for a seafarer is only $1,677.14 a year including bonus and overtime pay – which breaks down to $32.25 per week – the Board is trying to cut the pay of the men who risk their lives in submarine and bombing attacks for 24 hours a day. On receipt of a letter from the Board secretary announcing the government’s intentions, the officials and members of the SIU voted to present their protests to all levels of government. 1954 The several-month-old campaign led by the SIU, and participated in by other maritime unions, to keep the United States Public Health Service hospitals open appeared to be successful after the Eisenhower Administration recently submitted a budget request for $33 million to operate the hospitals for the coming year. As a result, it appeared that the hospitals would be able to continue operations as in the past with little, if any, cutback in services. The final fate of the hospitals, of course, rests in the hands of Congress, which has to decide whether or not to approve the budget request. Keeping the Public Health Service hospitals open has been a continuing problem and it appears that it will continue to be. 1967 Seafarers at regular monthly meetings in all constitutional ports enthusiastically voted to endorse and support the newly formed Maritime Defense League. In approving the purposes of the new organization, the membership called for maximum publicity in support of the League by all Seafarers. The new organization is a voluntary body set up to assure that maritime workers, faced with legal problems or charges threatening their personal liberties, are guaranteed their fundamental American rights to counsel and other assistance. Robert A. Matthews, SIU vice president in charge of contracts and contract enforcement, has been selected as chairman of the League and offices have been established at One Hanson Place in Brooklyn, N.Y. 1986 SIU members in New Bedford, Mass. continued their strike against the Seafood Producers Association (SPA) this month. The SPA bargaining team made its “final offer” that would drastically slash the share of the catch which currently goes to the fishing crews and leave the fishermen with virtually no rights. About the only thing that is certain in the seven-week-old New Bedford fishermen’s strike is that the SIU will be there “until hell freezes over,” said SIU President Frank Drozak. Seafarers LOG 17 1/25/2012 8:05:29 PM �Final Departures DEEP SEA CHARLES ALLEN Pensioner Charles Allen, 81, passed away August 15. Brother Allen became a union member in 1962. He originally was employed with Coyle Lines Inc. The deck department member was born in Memphis, Tenn. Brother Allen last sailed on the Rover. In 1995, he retired and settled in Slidell, La. FRANK BAKUN Pensioner Frank Bakun, 66, died September 10. Brother Bakun was born in New York. He signed on with the SIU in 1969. Brother Bakun, a member of the engine department, first sailed on the Steel Architect. He last shipped aboard the Horizon Producer. Brother Bakun went on pension in 2011 and lived in Jacksonville, Fla. JOHN BRIGGS Pensioner John Briggs, 73, passed away July 23. Brother Briggs began shipping with the SIU in 1970 from the port of Norfolk, Va. His earliest trip to sea was aboard a Rye Marine Corp. vessel. Brother Briggs was a native of Virginia. Prior to his retirement in 2003, he sailed on the USNS Prevail. Brother Briggs, a member of the steward department, made his home in Fayetteville, N.C. ROBERT BROWN Pensioner Robert Brown, 68, died August 15. Brother Brown was born in Denver. He started sailing with the union in 1990 from Seattle. Brother Brown, who sailed in the deck department, was first employed aboard the USNS Silas Bent. His last voyage was on the Horizon Anchorage. Brother Brown became a pensioner in 2009. He was a resident of Port Angeles, Wash. NORBERTO CACPAL Brother Norberto Cacpal, 51, passed away July 25. Brother Cacpal first donned the SIU colors in 2002 while in the port of Wilmington, Calif. His earliest trip was aboard the Patriot. Brother Cacpal, a member of the steward department, was born in Olongapo, Philippines. He most recently shipped on the Alaskan Navigator. Brother Cacpal called Riverside, 18 Seafarers LOG 10162_FEB_2012_LOG.indd 18 Calif., home. LEVY CALZADO Brother Levy Calzado, 37, died September 13. He became a Seafarer in 1998 while in Piney Point, Md. Brother Calzado initially sailed on the Global Mariner. The Baltimore-born mariner was a member of the engine department. Brother Calzado’s final trip was aboard the USNS Fisher. He continued to reside in Baltimore. CLARENCE CROWDER Pensioner Clarence Crowder, 87, passed away September 11. Brother Crowder began shipping with the union in 1951. He was a North Carolina native and worked in the engine department. During his seafaring career, Brother Crowder sailed with ISCO Inc. and OSG Ship Management. He went on pension in 1985 and lived in Zebulon, N.C. THELMA GIANOPULOS Sister Thelma Gianopulos, 85, died June 9. Sister Gianopulos joined the union in 1968 in San Francisco. During her seafaring career she sailed aboard ships including the Santa Maria and the President McKinley. Sister Gianopulos was born in North Carolina and sailed in the steward department. She settled in Modesto, Calif. VICTOR GONZALEZ Pensioner Victor Gonzalez, 86, passed away August 22. Brother Gonzalez first donned the SIU colors in 1977. He initially shipped aboard the Middleton. Brother Gonzalez, who sailed in the steward department, was born in Puerto Rico. He last worked on the Carolina. Brother Gonzalez continued to make his home in Puerto Rico. EDWIN HARRIS Pensioner Edwin Harris, 83, died July 23. Brother Harris signed on with the union in 1951. He first shipped on the Steel Ranger. Brother Harris worked in the engine department. His final voyage was aboard the Ponce. Brother Harris became a pensioner in 1992 and lived in St. Petersburg, Fla. SHEPPARD HARRIS Brother Sheppard Harris, 87, passed away July 30. Brother Harris started his seafaring career in 1958 while in the port of San Francisco. He sailed aboard vessels operated by Matson Navigation Company such as the Maunawili and Manulani. Brother Harris, a native of Louisiana, was a member of the steward department. Brother Harris settled in San Francisco. DONALD HICKS Pensioner Donald Hicks, 84, died September 24. Brother Hicks joined the union in 1952. The deck department member initially shipped with Sprogue Steamship Company. Brother Hicks’ final trip was aboard the Elizabeth. He went on pension in 1985. Brother Hicks was born in Massachusetts and called Brooklyn, N.Y., home. SILVIO IGLESIAS Pensioner Silvio Iglesias, 73, passed away August 5. Brother Iglesias began sailing with the Seafarers in 1973 while in the port of Houston. He was born in Havana, Cuba. Brother Iglesias initially shipped with Intercontinental Carriers. His final ship was the Horizon Challenger. Brother Iglesias, who sailed in the engine department, became a pensioner in 2004. He lived in Houston. ELKIN KENT Pensioner Elkin Kent, 73, died August 17. Brother Kent was born in Florida. He signed on with the SIU in 1962 while in New Orleans. Brother Kent, a member of the engine department, originally worked with Bloomfield Steamship Company. He last sailed aboard the Humacao. Brother Kent started collecting his pension in 1997. He was a resident of Picayune, Miss. PETER LOIK Pensioner Peter Loik, 84, passed away August 31. Brother Loik first donned the SIU colors in 1951 while in the port of Baltimore. His first voyage was with Z Maritime Operations. Brother Loik was a member of the deck depart- ment. His final ship was the USNS Wright. Brother Loik was born in Canada but called Boynton Beach, Fla., home. He went on pension in 1993. VINCENT MACKELIS Pensioner Vincent Mackelis, 90, died August 22. Brother Mackelis became an SIU member in 1942 in Mobile, Ala. He initially shipped aboard the Steel Executive. Brother Mackelis was born in Elizabeth, N.J., and worked in the engine department. He last sailed on the Gallaway. Brother Mackelis retired in 1981 and continued to reside in his native state. JOSEPH MAGYAR Pensioner Joseph Magyar, 90, passed away August 19. Brother Magyar began sailing with the Seafarers in 1952. His earliest trip to sea was aboard the Sea Georgia. Brother Magyar was born in Pocahontas, Fla. His final voyage was on the USNS Pollux. Brother Magyar went on pension in 1986. The engine department member made his home in Granite City, Ill. JOHN MIRANDA Pensioner John Miranda, 61, died August 8. Brother Miranda first donned the SIU colors in 1971. His initial voyage took place aboard the Falcon Lady. Brother Miranda, who sailed in the engine department, last sailed on the Prince William Sound. Brother Miranda started receiving his retirement compensation in 2007 and lived in Bush, La. HUSSAIN NASSER Pensioner Hussain Nasser, 72, passed away September 5. Brother Nasser signed on with the SIU in 1979. He was born in Yemen. Brother Nasser, a member of the steward department, originally worked aboard the Exchange. He last shipped on the Shining Star. Brother Nasser went on pension in 2004 and called Dearborn, Mich., home. PAUL PETERSON Brother Paul Peterson, 56, died August 19. Brother Peterson became an SIU member in 1987. His earliest trip was aboard the USNS Assertive. Brother Peterson last shipped on the Horizon Enterprise. He sailed in the engine department. Brother Peterson made his home in Pahoa, Hawaii. ALEXANDER REYER Pensioner Alexander Reyer, 60, passed away June 10. Brother Reyer was born in Baltimore. He started shipping with the union in 1978 while in the port of San Francisco. Brother Reyer first worked aboard the Santa Magdalena. Prior to his retirement in 2001, he sailed on the LNG Taurus. Brother Reyer was a member of the steward department and a resident of San Francisco. LORENZO RINALDI Pensioner Lorenzo Rinaldi, 94, died August 23. Brother Rinaldi began shipping with the union in 1951. He worked in the steward department. Brother Rinaldi sailed with Louisiana Sulphur Carrier and CSX Lines. He retired in 1979 and lived in Pasadena, Md. GENARO RIVERA Pensioner Genaro Rivera, 78, passed away July 13. Brother Rivera joined the SIU in 1962. He worked with CSX Lines as a member of the steward department. Brother Rivera’s final trip was aboard the Challenger. He went on pension in 2002 and called Woodbridge, Va., home. SOLOMON SHIELDS Pensioner Solomon Shields, 74, died June 14. Brother Shields signed on with the SIU in 1987 while in the port of San Francisco. He worked in the deck department. Brother Shields initially sailed on the USNS Indomitable. Before retiring in 2003, he sailed aboard the Liberty Wave. Brother Shields resided in Bernice, La. WILLIAM TANNO Brother William Tanno, 79, passed away July 15. Brother Tanno became a Seafarer in 1978 while in the port of Honolulu. He originally sailed with States Steamship Company. Brother Tanno was a member of the steward department. He most recently shipped aboard the Cape Isabel. Brother Tanno made his home in California. Continued on Page 20 February 2012 1/25/2012 8:05:32 PM �Digest of Shipboard Union Meetings HORIZON ENTERPRISE (Horizon Lines), December 29 – Chairman Mark S. Lance, Secretary Scott Opsahl, Educational Director Jeff Hawkins, Deck Delegate Abdulla Omar, Engine Delegate Albert Dulig, Steward Delegate Joseph Gallo. Chairman discussed upcoming schedule and also advised crew to submit recommendations to contract department for upcoming negotiations. He thanked mariners for safe voyage and for helping keep house clean. Secretary reminded everyone that decks have just been waxed. Educational director urged members to upgrade for better job security, and also to renew seafaring documents ahead of time. In particular, he cautioned that mariners may not be able to ship if their credentials are set to expire before the end of the next/current voyage. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew received communication from contracts department clarifying B-book reliefs. Crew asked about Horizon ships that were taken out of service. Also expressed concern about food budget, and gave vote of thanks to steward department. Next ports: Oakland, Calif., Honolulu, Hawaii, and Tacoma, Wash. HORIZON RELIANCE (Horizon Lines), December 18 – Chairman Kissinfor Taylor, Secretary Howard Lewis, Educational Director David Watkins, Deck Delegate Wilfredo Caidoy, Engine Delegate Agustino Tutor, Steward Delegate Teresito Reyes. Chairman announced upcoming payoff at sea. Secretary reminded crew to help keep lounge clean and keep laundry room supplied. Educational director reminded members to upgrade their skills at unionaffiliated Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md. He also urged crew not to wait until the last minute to renew documents. Treasurer reported $1,702 in ship’s fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew thanked galley gang for job well done. Next port: Los Angeles. INDIANA HARBOR (American Steamship Company), December 2 – Chairman Scott Krajniak, Secretary Maccine Bell, Educational Director Daryl Overby, Deck Delegate Issam Hani. Chairman reminded members to check document expiration dates. He praised steward department for great job during Thanksgiving. He discussed the damaging effects of so-called right-to-work laws on union members. He encouraged Seafarers to donate to SPAD and the Maritime Defense League (MDL). Secretary noted SIU forms are available in rec room and also on the union’s website. Educational director encouraged mariners to upgrade as soon as February 2012 10162_FEB_2012_LOG.indd 19 The Seafarers LOG attempts to print as many digests of union shipboard minutes as possible. On occasion, because of space limitations, some will be omitted. Ships’ minutes first are reviewed by the union’s contract department. Those issues requiring attention or resolution are addressed by the union upon receipt of the ships’ minutes. The minutes are then forwarded to the Seafarers LOG for publication. NOAA Ship Handles VERTREP The Seafarers-crewed USNS Rainier (right, part of the NOAA fleet) engages in a vertical replenishment in the Arabian Sea early last month. Picking up stores from the Rainier’s flight deck, destined for the aircraft carrier USS John C. Stennis (left), is a Knight Hawk helicopter. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Kenneth Abbate) possible and explained the benefits of doing so. Deck delegate stressed to fellow crew members the importance of being aware of ice on deck and on the docks. Steward delegate reminded crew members getting off ship to register at the hall within 72 hours. Next port: Milwaukee. LIBERTY SUN (Liberty Maritime), December 4 – Chairman Charles Foley, Secretary Louins Johnson, Educational Director William Summers, Deck Delegate Deisrael Williams, Engine Delegate Cliff Alexis, Steward Delegate Wilmer Alvarez. Chairman thanked crew for smooth, safe voyage. He reminded everyone about the importance of safety at all times. He also announced upcoming payoff and thanked steward department for job well done. Secretary reported sanitary inspections went great and expressed his gratitude for fellow crew members helping keep ship clean. He reminded everybody that the plastic salad bowls are not microwaveable. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Chairman read president’s report from Seafarers LOG. Recommendation was made to increase pension amounts and lower sea-time requirements. Crew thanked steward department and especially Recertified Steward Louins Johnson for great desserts and menus. Next port: Corpus Christi, Texas. MAERSK CAROLINA (Maersk Line, Limited), December 12 – Chairman Brian Fountain, Secretary Dulip Sookhiram, Educational Director Kevin Cooper. Chairman reported another safe trip with no lost-time injuries, bringing the vessel’s total to 2,618 days. Payoff scheduled for December 20 at noon. Chairman reminded crew to keep garbage room locked in port, and also added special thanks to everyone for doing their jobs professionally and in a timely manner. Secretary encouraged members to read Seafarers LOG and also contribute to SPAD “because when you do, you help yourself as well as your union brothers and sisters.” Educational director reminded members to get their time in and take advantage of upgrading opportunities in Piney Point. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Steward delegate thanked other departments for helping keep house clean. Crew thanked galley gang for all the great meals, especially Thanksgiving. They also discussed suggestions for next contract and a number of related issues including relief procedures, pension and medical benefits and more. MAERSK GEORGIA (Maersk Line, Limited), December 24 – Chairman Konstantinos Prokovas, Secretary Darryl Goggins, Educational Director John Conn, Steward Delegate Bertram Hickman. Chairman read president’s report from Seafarers LOG. Secretary reminded crew getting off to make sure rooms are clean and supplied with clean linen. Educational director encouraged members to upgrade at union-affiliated school in Piney Point. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew discussed STCW requirements and shipboard safety drills. Deck and engine departments received votes of thanks for jobs well done. Crew recommended increasing pension benefits. MAERSK KENTUCKY (Maersk Line, Limited), December 31 – Chairman Brian Corbett, Secretary Wayne Wilson, Educational Director Alfredo Cuevas, Deck Delegate S. Rivas, Engine Delegate Mohamed Humadi, Steward Delegate Ali Alzokari. Crew discussed a number of issues related to relief shipping. They asked for an increase in vacation days and also talked about ways to possibly improve registration. Chairman announced payoff and thanked everyone for pulling their weight and going the extra mile. He discussed challenges associated with quick turnarounds in port and again commended everyone for a successful trip. He noted the importance of solidarity among the maritime unions. Repair request was submitted to captain in timely manner and also will be given to patrolman at payoff. Educational direc- tor reminded crew to keep all documents and certifications up-to-date, and start early on renewals. He also urged members to upgrade, which can lead to higher wages. Treasurer talked about ship’s fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew said they are awaiting replies to several communications sent to union and manpower office. Chairman encouraged members to read president’s report in each Seafarers LOG. Crew thanked steward department “for putting up with us on this lousy run.” Steward made suggestions for next contract. USNS FRED STOCKHAM (Maersk Line, Limited), December 31 – Chairman Andrew Barrows, Secretary Lorraine Keelen, Electrician Christopher Eason, Deck Delegate Arthur Quinney, Engine Delegate Steven Hoskins, Steward Delegate Tony Johnson. Chairman announced payoff and encouraged members to stay current on their dues. He reminded crew that there is “absolutely no dumping” in the Caribbean zone. Educational director encouraged everyone to upgrade at Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew read president’s report from Seafarers LOG. Crew discussed slop chest and wished everyone a Happy New Year. Next port: Jacksonville, Fla. Seafarers LOG 19 1/25/2012 8:05:34 PM �Final Departures Continued from Page 18 BOBBY TROSCLAIR Pensioner Bobby Trosclair, 76, died July 21. Brother Trosclair began sailing with the SIU in 1953. He was born in Alabama. Brother Trosclair initially sailed with Waterman Steamship Corporation. His final ship was the Thomas Nelson. Brother Trosclair, who sailed in the deck department, became a pensioner in 2006. He was a resident of Gulfport, Miss. MANFRED VON LEUSCHNER Pensioner Manfred Von Leuschner, 76, passed away June 27. Brother Von Leuschner was born in Canada. He started his SIU career in 1964. Brother Von Leuschner was a member of the deck department. He was first employed aboard the Steel Fabricator. Brother Von Leuschner’s final trip was on the Pride of Texas. He began collecting his pension in 1992. Brother Von Leuschner settled in New York. THOMAS WYBO Brother Thomas Wybo, 53, died August 5. Brother Wybo signed on with the SIU in 1987. He worked in the steward department. Brother Wybo sailed with Crowley Liner Services aboard vessels such as the Senator and Cape Inscription. He lived in Tacoma, Wash. INLAND VICTOR DANIELS Pensioner Victor Daniels, 73, passed away August 11. Brother Daniels joined the union in 1956. His initial trip was on the Cathrine. Brother Daniels, who sailed in the deck department, last sailed with OSG Ship Management. He started receiving his retirement compensation in 1999. Brother Daniels called Wanchese, N.C., home. LARRY FLOWERS Pensioner Larry Flowers, 68, died July 13. Brother Flowers became an SIU member in 1977. He mainly sailed aboard vessels operated by CG Willis Inc. Brother Flowers was a North Carolina native. He went on pension in 2008 and resided in Hobucken, N.C. WILLIAM GILLIKIN Pensioner William Gillikin, 75, 20 Seafarers LOG 10162_FEB_2012_LOG.indd 20 passed away September 1. Brother Gillikin began sailing with the SIU in 1962. He mainly sailed with C.G. Willis Inc. and Interstate Oil Transportation Company. He retired in 1997 and settled in Harkers Island, N.C. DANIEL HAASE Pensioner Daniel Haase, 81, died July 29. Brother Haase first donned the SIU colors 1962. He initially worked with Moran Towing of Virginia. Brother Haase was last employed with McAllister Towing of Virginia. He became a pensioner in 1992. Brother Haase was a resident of Virginia Beach, Va. WILLIAM HOEY Pensioner William Hoey, 79, passed away August 2. Brother Hoey was born in Philadelphia. He started his SIU career in 1996. Brother Hoey worked primarily with Crowley for the duration of his career. He retired in 2001 and made his home in Wilmington, Del. BREWSTER KNOTT Brother Brewster Knott, 70, died August 5. He began sailing with the union in 1973 while in the port of New Orleans. Brother Knott was born in Louisiana. He worked aboard vessels operated by Dixie Carriers. Brother Knott lived Opelousas, La. RANDELL PERRINE Brother Randell Perrine, 63, passed away April 20. He became an SIU member in 1999. Brother Perrine primarily shipped in the steward department of vessels operated by Allied Transportation Company. He called Virginia Beach, Va., home. STEPHEN PLASH Pensioner Stephen Plash, 53, died August 29. Brother Plash first donned the SIU colors in 1976. He spent most of his career aboard G&H Towing Company vessels. Brother Plash became a pensioner in 1999 and resided in Santa Fe, Texas. BRUCE SNDER Pensioner Bruce Snyder, 68, passed away August 29. Brother Snyder was born in Montana. He started sailing with the union in 1977. Brother Snyder initially worked with IBC Company. The deck department member last shipped with OSG Ship Management. He started receiving his pension in 2005. Brother Snyder was a resident of Brandon, Miss. GREAT LAKES DOYLE HUFF Brother Doyle Huff, 85, died August 13. Brother Huff signed on with the SIU in 1979, originally sailing with Michigan Interstate Railway. The engine department member’s final trip was on the Charles E. Wilson. He called Frankfort, Mich., home. WILLIAM SPARKS Pensioner William Sparks, 83, passed away September 26. Brother Sparks became an SIU member in 1967. His earliest trip was with Chicago Duluth & Georgian Bay. Brother Sparks was born in Kirby, Ark. He shipped in the deck department. Prior to his retirement in 1993, Brother Sparks worked aboard the Buffalo. He settled in Michigan. National Maritime Union JOSE ALVAREZ Pensioner Jose Alvarez, 70, passed away August 25. Brother Alvarez was a native of Honduras. He went on pension in 2005. Brother Alvarez made his home in Houston. JOHN AVGERIS Pensioner John Avgeris, 87, died August 19. Brother Avgeris was born in Cleveland, Ohio. He went on pension in 1986. Brother Avgeris settled in Crown Point, Ind. was born in Edison, Ga. He started collecting his retirement compensation in 1968. Brother Canady lived in Meridian, Ga. CASIMIRO CANALES Pensioner Casimiro Canales, 91, died July 24. Brother Canales, a native of Carolina, P.R., went on pension in 1981. He called Philadelphia home. RAFAEL CARMONA Pensioner Rafael Carmona, 87, passed away August 3. Brother Carmona was a native of Puerto Rico. He retired in 1971. Brother Carmona made his home in Venice, Fla. WILLIAM (BILL) CRAMER Pensioner William Cramer, 85, died August 10. Brother Cramer was born in Blanchester, Ohio. He went on pension in 1967 and resided in New Jersey. FRANK DU CLOUX Pensioner Frank Du Cloux, 87, passed away August 1. Brother Du Cloux, a native of Alabama, became a pensioner in 1974. He called Mobile home. JOSEPH FARRELL Pensioner Joseph Farrell, 87, died July 22. Brother Farrell was born in Chicago. He started collecting his pension in 1989. Brother Farrell settled in Buffalo, Wyoming. ARLINDO FELIX Pensioner Arlindo Felix, 96, passed away July 14. Born in Brazil, he became a pensioner in 1977. Brother Felix was a resident of Brooklyn, N.Y. LINWOOD GAGE Pensioner Linwood Gage, 85, died July 24. Brother Gage was born in Portland, Maine. He began receiving his pension in 1991. Brother Gage called Dover, N.H., home. LLOYD BEARD Pensioner Lloyd Beard, 86, passed away August 13. Brother Beard, a native of Missouri, became a pensioner in 1992. He called Covington, La., home. BILLY GARNER Pensioner Billy Garner, 83, passed away August 20. Brother Garner was an Oklahoma native. He started collecting his retirement compensation in 1972. Brother Garner lived in Lufkin, Texas. NICHOLAS BENITEZ Pensioner Nicholas Benitez, 91, died June 30. The Puerto Ricoborn mariner became a pensioner in 1970. Brother Benitez was a resident of Columbia, Md. JULIEN JOSEPH Pensioner Julien Joseph, 95, died August 6. Brother Joseph, a native of Trinidad, went on pension in 1970. He made his home in St. Albans, N.Y. D. CANADY Pensioner D. Canady, 90, passed away August 5. Brother Canady MARIO LAMBOY Pensioner Mario Lamboy, 89, passed away August 19. Brother Lamboy was born in Puerto Rico. He retired in 1968 and called Tamarac, Fla., home. LENWARD McCLENDON Pensioner Lenward McClendon, 83, died August 13. Born in Florida, he began receiving his pension in 1968. Brother McClendon settled in Eight Mile, Ala. RICHARD MURPHY Pensioner Richard Murphy, 85, passed away June 13. Brother Murphy, a native of Massachusetts, went on pension in 1965. He continued to reside in Massachusetts. ALBERT POREE Pensioner Albert Poree, 93, died June 23. Brother Poree was a New Orleans native. He started collecting his retirement compensation in 1981. Brother Poree was a resident of Harvey, La. WOODROW RENEAU Pensioner Woodrow Reneau, 92, passed away August 9. Born in Belize, Brother Reneau became a pensioner in 1985. He lived in South Holland, Ill. SALVADOR RIVAS Pensioner Salvador Rivas, 80, died July 1. Brother Rivas was born in New York. He went on pension in 1987. Brother Rivas settled in Brooklyn, N.Y. LEO ROBERTS Pensioner Leo Roberts, 89, passed away July 24. Brother Roberts, a native of North Carolina, went on pension in 1993. He was a resident of Dartmouth, Mass. WILBERT SIMPSON Pensioner Wilbert Simpson, 87, died July 3. The Texas-born mariner became a pensioner in 1970. Brother Simpson made his home in Mayesville, S.C. CLINT TABOR Pensioner Clint Tabor, 82, passed away July 28. Brother Tabor was born in Virginia. He began receiving his pension in 1990 and continued to call Virginia home. Name Araujo, Abel Bennett, Ernesto Davis, James Ford, John Francois, Rudolph Garzon, Luis Henriksen, Conrad Maloney, Annie Miller, Adrian Otero, Eduardo Rosado, Americo Age DOD 87 July 3 89 July 13 85 July 30 85 August 19 76 July 17 89 August 19 77 June 19 91 July 13 92 August 2 91 August 29 89 July 23 February 2012 1/25/2012 8:05:36 PM �Paul Hall Center Upgrading Course Information The following is the schedule of courses at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md., for the next few months. All programs are geared to improving the job skills of Seafarers and to promoting the American maritime industry. Please note that this schedule may change to reflect the needs of the membership, the maritime industry and—in times of conflict—the nation’s security. Students attending any of these classes should check in the Saturday before their course’s start date. The courses listed here will begin promptly on the morning of the start dates. For classes ending on a Friday, departure reservations should be made for Saturday. Seafarers who have any questions regarding the upgrading courses offered at the Paul Hall Center may call the admissions office at (301) 994-0010. Title of Course Start Date Date of Completion Title of Course Start Date Date of Completion Welding April 28 June 2 May 18 June 22 Safety Upgrading Courses Advanced Firefighting February 25 March 3 May 5 June 2 March 2 March 9 May 11 June 8 Basic Firefighting/STCW March 3 April 7 May 12 June 23 March 9 March 13 May 18 June 29 Medical Care Provider February 11 March 3 March 10 May 12 June 9 February 17 March 9 March 16 May 18 June 15 Government Vessels February 25 April 21 June 16 March 2 April 27 June 22 Deck Department Lifeboat March 3 March 31 April 28 May 26 June 23 March 16 April 13 May 11 June 8 July 6 Able Seaman March 17 May 12 April 13 June 8 STOS March 31 April 13 Fast Rescue Boat May 5 June 23 May 11 June 29 Radar March 10 May 19 March 23 June 1 ARPA March 24 June 2 March 30 June 8 Radar Renewal February 21 June 25 February 21 June 25 Tank PIC Barge March 10 March 16 Engine Department BAPO March 31 May 26 April 27 June 22 FOWT March 3 April 28 June 23 March 30 May 25 July 20 Junior Engineer May 12 July 6 Marine Electrician May 5 June 29 Marine Refrigeration March 10 April 20 Machinist February 11 March 2 Pumpman March 24 April 6 Welding March 3 March 31 March 23 April 20 UPGRADING APPLICATION Name ________________________________________________________________________ Address ______________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________ Telephone (Home)_________________________ (Cell)_________________________ Date of Birth __________________________________________________________________ Deep Sea Member o Lakes Member o Inland Waters Member o If the following information is not filled out completely, your application will not be processed. Social Security #_______________________ Book # _________________________________ Seniority_____________________________ Department_____________________________ Home Port____________________________________________________________________ E-mail_______________________________________________________________________ Endorsement(s) or License(s) now held_____________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________ Are you a graduate of the SHLSS/PHC trainee program? o Yes o No If yes, class # __________________________________________________________________ Have you attended any SHLSS/PHC upgrading courses? o Yes o No If yes, course(s) taken____________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________ With this application, COPIES of the following must be sent: One hundred and twenty-five (125) days seatime for the previous year, one day in the last six months prior to the date your class starts, USMMD (z-card) front and back or relevant pages of merchant mariner credential, front page of your union book indicating your department and seniority, qualifying seatime for the course if it is Coast Guard tested, 1995 STCW Certificate, valid SHBP Clinic Card and TWIC. February 2012 10162_FEB_2012_LOG.indd 21 ` Steward Department Serve Safe April 14 July 7 September 29 April 20 July 13 October 5 Chief Steward April 14 July 7 October 13 May 25 August 17 November 23 Chief Cook These modules start every other week. The next class begins February 4. Galley Operations/Advanced Galley Operations These modules start every Monday. The next class will begin February 6. Reminder for Paul Hall Center Students Students who have registered for classes at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, but later discover—for whatever reason—that they cannot attend should inform the admissions department immediately so arrangements can be made to have other students take their places. NOTICE: National Maritime Center Web Site Provides Valuable Mariner Resources The National Maritime Center (NMC), the licensing authority for the U.S. Coast Guard, offers a comprehensive web site covering mariner credentialing, medical guidelines and much more. The site features a wide range of applications and forms, deck- and engine-department exam information, lists of Coast Guard-approved courses and more. Seafarers are encouraged to COURSE check out the site at:http://www.uscg. mil/nmc/ Mariners may call the NMC at 1-888-IASKNMC (1-888-427-5662). Operational hours are 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. EST, Monday through Friday. (The NMC is closed for all federal holidays.) Various email forms also are available through the NMC web site. ____________________________ START DATE _______________ DATE OF COMPLETION _______________________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________________ LAST VESSEL: ___________________________________ Rating: ____________________ Date On: _______________________________ Date Off:____________________________ SIGNATURE ____________________________________ DATE______________________ NOTE: Transportation will be paid in accordance with the scheduling letter only if you present original receipts and successfully complete the course. If you have any questions, contact your port agent before departing for Piney Point. Not all classes are reimbursable.Return completed application to: Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education Admissions Office, P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674-0075; or fax to (301) 994-2189. The Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education is a private, non-profit, equal opportunity institution and admits students, who are otherwise qualified, of any race, nationality or sex. The school complies with applicable laws with regard to admission, access or treatment of students in its programs or activities. 2/12 Seafarers LOG 21 1/25/2012 8:05:36 PM �Paul Hall Center Classes Welding – Six upgraders completed their requirements in this course Dec. 16. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Ricky Arroyo, Michael Knight, Glenn Quitorio, Jose Rivas, Abdulnaser Saeed and Todd Williams. Class Instructor Buzzy Andrews is second from left in the back row. Government Vessels - Five Seafarers completed the enhancement of their skills in this course Dec. 16. Those graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Shawn Canon, Tucker Demetrius, Meawad Kamel, Kevin Lewis and Emilio Ordaniel. Their instructor, Mark Cates, is standing at the far right. ECDIS – The following individuals (above, in alphabetical order) graduated from this course Dec. 16: Stacey McNeely, Kevin Moore and Charles Noell. Brad Wheeler, their instructor, is at left. (Note: Not all are pictured.) GMDSS – Four upgraders finished their requirements in this course Dec. 9. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Thomas Blair, Eric Kiellberg, Martha Owens and Richard Weaver. Class Instructor Brad Wheeler is at the far right. BAPO – The following individuals (photo at left, in alphabetical order) completed this course Dec. 9: John Albritton, Kyle Bennett, Collins Brooks, Cleavern Brown, Vincent Burton, Autumn Cole, Marc Costley, Ryan Crowell, Bobbie Gibbs, Dexter Hastings, Dustin Hutchins, Chitthananda Jayaratne, Slethvana Jules, William Mercer, Santos Olivera, Gary Newbegin Jr., Robert Noble, Michael Papaioannou, Michael Robinson and Thomas Rodwrick. Their instructor, Jay Henderson, is at the far right. Medical Care Provider – Nine upgraders successfully completed their requirements in this course Dec. 2. Graduating (photo at right, in alphabetical order) were: Eugene Davis Jr., Christopher Devonish, Arthur Ladd, Roy Madrio, Kevin Moore, Robert Taylor, Jesse Turner, Kareim Wright and Christopher Zaucha. Mike Roberts, their instructor, is at the far left. 22 Seafarers LOG 10162_FEB_2012_LOG.indd 22 February 2012 1/25/2012 8:05:44 PM �Paul Hall Center Classes Galley Operations – Five members of the steward department completed this course Dec. 23. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Andrew Andrini, Gary Cruz, Juan Guanill, Justo Reyes and Pamela Wilson. Their instructor, Ed White, is fourth from the left in back row. BST – The following individuals (photo at left, in alphabetical order) finished their requirements in this course Dec. 9: Shawn Canon, Michael Durago, Michael Lau, John Nerster, Jamie Norsworthy, Emilio Ordaniel, Jario Rochez, Kevin Stehlik, Clifton Sweep, Norma West and Glenn Williams. Class Instructors Joe Zienda and Wayne Johnson are at the far left and far right, respectively. BSI – (Hawaii) The following individuals (above, in alphabetical order) completed this course Nov. 12 at the Seafarers Training Facility in Barbers Point, Hawaii: Shane Bradley, Jayna Bried-Sixkiller, Michael Childress, Kenneth Class, Rosemarie Escalera, Dustin Frohnauer, John Gannon, Abdelhak Habib, Angela Kennedy, Nakia Keys, Joshua Laydon, Lea MacLean, Ashley McLoughlin, Tina Moore, Michi Nakanishi, Kimberly Nash and Barrett Hasselwood. February 2012 10162_FEB_2012_LOG.indd 23 BST – (Hawaii) Fifteen individuals completed their requirements in this course Nov. 19 at the Seafarers’ Barbers Point, Hawaii-based training facility. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Patrick Bruno, Olena Gordillo, Wesley Hall, Christina Lombardo, Ryifee Long, David Lyle, Jana Mendoza, Long Nguyen, Melissa Osterhoff, Alan Perez, Martin Petelinz, Andrew Powell, James Roberts, Christine Sall, and Sean Toves. Seafarers LOG 23 1/25/2012 8:05:51 PM �Volume 74, Number 2 February 2012 SHBP Scholarship Info Page 11 The Impeccable is operated by Maersk Line, Limited for MSC. USNS Impeccable Ends Final Mission of 2011 on High Note The USNS Impeccable’s last mission for 2011 went smoothly despite periodically rough seas, reported MDR Brandon Maeda. The longtime Seafarer also submitted the photos accompanying this brief. Operated by Maersk Line, Limited for the U.S. Military Sealift Command, the Impeccable is part of the agency’s special mission ships program. Designated TAGOS 23, the Impeccable is 281 feet long, 96 feet wide and can sail at 12 knots. According to MSC, the Impeccable and its four sister ships in one component of the program “directly support the Navy by using both passive and active low frequency sonar arrays to detect and track undersea threats.” Those vessels include the USNS Able, USNS Effective, USNS Loyal and USNS Victorious in addition to the Impeccable. AB Antolin Avorque OS Matt Botterbusch MDR Brandon Maeda 10162_FEB_2012_LOG_X.indd 24 Bosun Robert Taylor OS Mark Brownell Chief Steward John Neal, Oiler Jeremy Birchfield, SA Ahmed Omar AB Pete Fulcher AB Walter Lichota Oiler Omar Espinosa Chief Cook Mario Siclot 1/30/2012 11:22:30 AM � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Seafarers Log Issues 2010-2019 Description An account of the resource Volumes LXXII-LXXXI of the Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Seafarers Log Digital Copies Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 2010-2019 Document A resource containing textual data. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre text. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource February 2012 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES MAERSK ILLINOIS JOINS SIU FLEET OCEAN TITAN OULLS OFF DRAMATIC SEA RESCUE SEAFARERS BRIGHTEN HOLIDAYS FOR U.S. MILITARY PERSONNEL SIU, ITF ASSIST FISHER CREW IMO SEES PROGRESS IN ANTI-PIRACY CAMPAIGN SIU WELCOMES NEW JOBS ABOARD MAERSK ILLINOIS CROWLEY MARITIME LAUNCHES FIRST OCEAN-CLASS TUGBOAT RESCUE AT SEA: CREW OF UNION-CONTRACTED OCEAN TITAN SAVES LIVES OF SEEN FOREIGN MARINERS OFFICIALS EASE TWIC REQUIREMENTS FOR SOME WHEN OBTAINING, RENEWING MARINER CREDENTIALS EPI SHEDS LIGHT ON ‘RIGHT TO WORK’ COAST GUARD PUBLISHES POLICY REGARDING IMPLEMENTATION OF 2010 STCW AMENDMENTS SEAFARERS STEP UP FOR SANTA’S CASTLE USNS DAHL CREW BRIGHTENS CHILDREN’S HOLIDAYS IN SAIPAN MARITIME INDUSTRY GIVES BACK, SUPPORTS ASSORTED ENDEAVORS SIU BOATMEN RATIFY ALLIED CONTRACT FORMER SIU, AMO OFFICIAL GORDON SPENCER DIES AT 86 SEAFARERS SHARE HOLIDAY SPIRIT IN HALLS, AT SEA ATC CREWS COMMENDED SUPERFERRY UPDATE NEW WEBSITE FOR HONOLULU SAILORS HOME ADDITIONAL FERRY SERVICE A HIT LIBERTY SHIP OFFERS TOURS, CRUIS AMERICAN VICTORY ‘HISTORY CRUISE’ NFL PLAYERS: ‘RIGHT TO WORK’ IS TRICK PLAY USNS IMPECCABLE ENDS FINAL MISSION OF 2011 ON HIGH NOTE Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Seafarers Log Digital Copies Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 02/01/2012 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Newsprint Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context Vol. 74, No. 2 http://www.seafarerslog.org/archives/files/original/9d879f8f455eea678c4a4d9a3b1ee01e.pdf 4c9fe2ab8f60e5adbfba944957044496 PDF Text Text Volume 74, Number 3 March 2012 Lifesavers! Horizon Reliance Rescues Imperiled Sailors The SIU-crewed Horizon Reliance pulled off a dramatic rescue in early February, saving the lives of three people including a 9-year-old boy. The pre-dawn rescue took place near Hawaii, in very rough weather. Among those sharing in the post-rescue happiness were (kneeling, from left) Chief Cook Abdulla Baabbad, AB Ahmed Baabbad, Electrician David Watkins, (rear, starting with member on sofa) Steward/Baker Joseph Laureta, UA Christopher Johnson, EU Cirico Geonanga, OMU Mervin Cruzat, Third Eng. Keith Johnson, Bosun Anthony Sabatini, SA Hussain Quraish, AB Tar Ahmed, GUDE Idel Irani and UA Robert Sale. Page 3. New SIU Jobs Aboard MV Carat The union recently welcomed new tonnage as the MV Carat (pictured in Germany during its first voyage under the American flag) entered the SIU-crewed fleet. Page 3. (Photo by Juergen Braker) MSC Commander Visits School The commander of the U.S. Military Sealift Command, Rear Adm. Mark Buzby (front, right), recently toured the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, located in Piney Point, Md. SIU President Michael Sacco (left) welcomed the admiral and joined him for the tour. Also pictured are Mike Mason of American Service Technology (center) and J.C. Wiegman, the school’s director of training (rear, far right). More photos from the tour appear on page 4. CIVMAR News Page 5 10802_2X.indd 1 Union Membership Grows Page 5 Waterfront Restoration Update Page 24 2/24/2012 7:19:21 PM �President’s Report Seafarers to the Rescue On behalf of the union’s entire executive board, I extend our thanks and congratulations to all mariners who were aboard the SIU-crewed Horizon Reliance during last month’s remarkable rescue of three recreational sailors near Hawaii. I know you’ve already received many accolades, and you deserve every one of them. Your performance under life-and-death pressure was nothing short of extraordinary. At the same time, while the details of the rescue certainly were incredible, the effort and sacrifice of the SIU crew and the officers was nothing new. It’s all part of our union’s motto, Brotherhood of the Sea, and you better believe it was on display when the Reliance came to the rescue on February 8. For instance, Seafarers LOG readers may Michael Sacco remember that it was only one month ago when I got to commend the SIU-crewed Ocean Titan for its dramatic rescue. And, we reported on rescues performed by three other SIU vessels in the prior year. Reading some of the quotes after the Horizon Reliance rescue, I was glad to see crew members mentioning the value of their safety training, both at our affiliated school in Piney Point, Md., and aboard the vessel. Learning those types of specific skills is like having insurance – you hope you never have to use them, but if that moment arrives, being properly prepared is priceless. Once again, my hat goes off to the entire crew, and I hope everyone will read our coverage of the rescue in this edition. Welcoming AFL-CIO Officials The SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, located in Piney Point, Md., hosted top AFL-CIO officials during a two-day retreat in late January. SIU President Michael Sacco (right in photo at right) welcomed the gathering and also chatted with AFL-CIO President Rich Trumka (left), a longtime backer of the U.S. Merchant Marine. In photo immediately below, AFL-CIO Executive VP Arlene Holt Baker (center) speaks to the group as Director of Policy Damon Silvers (left) and Northeast Regional Director Sandra Felder look on. In the remaining photo, AFL-CIO Secretary-Treasurer Liz Shuler (left) takes a turn at the microphone as General Counsel Lynn Rhinehart (right) and Amanda Pacheco, assistant to the secretary-treasurer, listen. New Tonnage Not all of the good news this month is nearly as dramatic as a nighttime rescue, but Seafarers undoubtedly are also happy to see the arrival of the containership MV Carat, one of the latest additions to the SIU-crewed fleet. This isn’t replacement tonnage but rather an outright addition, so it’s an especially positive development. We constantly work for exactly this type of acquisition – new tonnage and new jobs for Seafarers. It’s never easy, but one of the main things that makes our success possible is the professionalism of SIU crews. In that regard, I’m not really talking about headline-grabbing stories like rescues, but rather the day-to-day dependability of our union brothers and sisters. No one would invest in building or bringing a ship under the American flag unless they were absolutely sure they could secure reliable crews. And that’s exactly what we deliver. Going hand-in-hand with those efforts are contract negotiations, and 2012 promises to be quite busy on that front. I mentioned this at last month’s membership meeting in Piney Point and it’s worth repeating here: We are going to be aggressive in negotiations, and at the same time we are going to be realistic. We want to secure agreements that properly compensate SIU members while also being fair to the companies. These negotiations will be taking place against the looming backdrop of a still-lousy economy, so I think the parties on both sides of the table will have their work cut out for them. We’re up to the challenge, and we’ll be reporting the results throughout the year. Volume 74, Number 3 March 2012 The SIU online: www.seafarers.org The Seafarers LOG (ISSN 1086-4636) is published monthly by the Seafarers International Union; Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU, AFLCIO; 5201 Auth Way; Camp Springs, MD 20746. Telephone (301) 899-0675. Periodicals postage paid at Southern Maryland 20790-9998. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to the Seafarers LOG, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. Communications Director, Jordan Biscardo; Managing Editor/Production, Jim Guthrie; Assistant Editor, Paddy Lehane; Photographer, Harry Gieske; Administrative Support, Misty Dobry. Copyright © 2012 Seafarers International Union, AGLIWD. All Rights Reserved. The Seafarers International Union engaged an environmentally friendly printer for the production of this newspaper. 2 Seafarers LOG 10802_2X.indd 2 Report: Piracy Costs Billions Severe Economic Toll Mostly Falls on Industry While the human cost of Somali piracy is paramount, the global financial impact also is enormous – a point driven home in a recently issued report that pegs the financial toll of piracy in the year 2011 somewhere between $6.6 and $6.9 billion. Oceans Beyond Piracy, the name of both a coalition and an initiative, announced the report in early February. The group said that approximately 80 percent of piracy-related costs are borne by the shipping industry, while governments account for 20 percent of the expenditures associated with countering pirate attacks. “The report assesses nine different direct cost factors specifically focused on the economic impact of Somali piracy,” explained Anna Bowden, the report’s author. “Over the past year we have had substantial cooperation from maritime stakeholders which has helped to ensure the figures are as reliable as possible.” The breakdown of the most notable costs includes $2.7 billion in fuel costs associated with increased speeds of vessels transiting through high-risk areas, $1.3 billion for military operations, and $1.1 billion for security equipment and armed guards. Additionally, $635 million is attributed to insurance; $486 to $680 million is spent on re-routing vessels along the western coast of India; and $195 million is the estimated tab for increased labor costs. According to the report, 99 percent of the billions spent are attached to recurring costs associated with the protection of vessels – costs which must be repeated each year. “This figure is in sharp contrast to the $38 million spent for prosecution, imprisonment, and build- ing regional and Somali capacity to fight piracy,” Oceans Beyond Piracy said in a statement issued with the report. Additionally, average ransoms increased 25 percent from approximately $4 million in 2010 to $5 million in 2011. Although the total cost for ransoms was $160 million for 2011, money collected by pirates represents a mere two percent of the total economic cost. While ransoms provide the incentive for Somali pirates to attack vessels and hold hostages, they represent a disproportionally small cost compared to the nearly $7 billion spent to thwart these attacks, the report noted. “The human cost of piracy cannot be defined in economic terms,” Bowden added. “We do note with great concern that there were a significant number of piracy-related deaths, hostages taken, and seafarers subject to traumatic armed attacks in 2011. This happened in spite of the success of armed guards and military action in the later part of the year.” Officially launched at a press conference conducted at the Royal United Services Institute for Defence & Security Studies (RUSI) in Whitehall, London, the paper was presented to maritime experts and international press. The report will be used to raise important issues for the Oceans Beyond Piracy Working Group, which is expected to release recommendations for a better-coordinated and longer-looking strategy against piracy in July 2012. The full report is available at oceansbeyondpiracy.org and also is linked in a Feb. 8 post in the News section of the SIU website, www.seafarers. org. March 2012 2/24/2012 7:19:33 PM �Horizon Reliance Saves 3 In Drama-Filled Rescue The SIU-crewed Horizon Reliance overcame exceptionally rough nighttime weather to save three individuals, including a 9-year-old boy, whose sailboat became disabled and ultimately sank in the Pacific during the pre-dawn hours of Feb. 8. “The crew went way beyond anything I could have asked for,” said Bosun Anthony Sabatini a day after the rescue, which took place amid 55-mph wind gusts and waves ranging from 20 to 25 feet. “From top to bottom, the teamwork from the officers and crew was more than I thought possible. We saved lives last night. As they say, the SIU has some of the best-trained crews when it counts.” In addition to the bosun, the following SIU members were aboard the Horizon Reliance when the rescue took place: AB Tar Ahmed, AB Ahmed Baabbad, AB Rene Rafer, AB Julius Udan, AB Gil Villena, QEE David Watkins, GUDE Adel Irani, EU Cirico Geonanga, OMU Jonas Bocaya, OMU Mervin Cruzat, OMU Ricky Orroyo, Steward/Baker Joseph Laureta, Chief Cook Abdulla Baabbad, SA Hus- sain Quraish, UA Christopher Johnson and UA Robert Sale. Also on board were officers from the Marine Engineers’ Beneficial Association (MEBA) and the International Organization of Masters, Mates and Pilots (MM&P). “We prevailed,” said vessel master Capt. James Kelleher, who commended the entire crew for doing an outstanding job. The extremely grateful beneficiaries of their efforts are brothers Mitchell and Bradley James (ages 29 and 32, respectively) and Bradley’s son, Wes, all of Canada. They were sailing approximately 280 miles northeast of Hilo, Hawaii, when their 38-foot boat Liahona lost its mast and suffered engine failure. (Their voyage originated weeks earlier in Mexico.) They contacted the U.S. Coast Guard, which relayed the details to the Reliance as the vessel was on its regular run between Los Angeles and Hawaii. The Reliance then headed for the rescue site some 140 miles away. Arriving after midnight a few hours later as the weather continued to worsen, the Reliance slowly and cautiously maneuvered close to the disabled craft. But, according to the captain’s report, consecutive large waves tossed the sailboat into the 893-foot Reliance, and the boat soon sank. The three people from the boat, all wearing life vests equipped with lights, started drifting apart as lines and life rings were deployed. With Bosun Sabatini safely harnessed on the Jacobs ladder and AB Rafer (among others) keeping an eye on the other two sailors, Mitchell James grabbed a line and eventually climbed the ladder and was assisted to safety on the main deck. At that time, two hours had elapsed since the Horizon ship arrived. Another 90 harrowing minutes would pass before the other two survivors were secured. Despite extremely limited visibility, a line to both of them was put in place and they, too, were safely brought aboard. Wes, the youngest of the trio, was treated for mild hypothermia, but he quickly recovered. He and his father and uncle were given dry clothes, and the galley gang provided them with a hot meal. Bradley James said that when he first came aboard the Reliance, “It was just a gauntlet of happiness. There were tons of people there, and it was all these grown men and most of us had tears in our eyes…. It’s incredible it turned out the There’s plenty of reason to smile for survivors (from left) Bradley, Mitchell and Wes James and Capt. James Kelleher. way it did.” Engine Utility Geonanga said that a combination of schooling at the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center and shipboard safety drills paid off. The rescue “really was a scary experience, but it’s a good thing we go through all that training,” he said. GUDE Irani said, “I feared for the sailors, because the weather was really bad – very windy, rainy, very dark. The swells were huge: between 20-30 feet high.” “We all pulled together and got it done,” added Chief Steward Laureta. William Hamlin, Horizon Lines senior vice president of operations, stated, “We are thankful the Horizon Reliance was in the right place at the right time to come to the aid of these individuals. We commend Captain Kelleher and his crew for their skilled seamanship in accomplishing a successful rescue despite very adverse weather conditions.” Steward/Baker Joseph Laureta (left) and SA Hussain Quraish The vessel arrives in Hawaii following the rescue. The SIU crew included (from left) AB Gil Villena, UA Christopher Johnson, Chief Cook Abdulla Baabbad, OMU Ricky Orroyo, Engine Utility Cirico Geonanga and GUDE Adel Irani. SIU Members Sail Aboard Newly Contracted MV Carat Seafarers are sailing aboard a newly contracted ship – the MV Carat – that is an outright addition to the union’s fleet. Operated by Crowley and chartered to Hapag-Lloyd, the Carat is a 460-foot-long, 889TEU container vessel. It was built in late 2009, has a service speed of slightly greater than 18 knots, and is transporting cargo between Germany and other nations in the Baltic region. The ship reflagged under the Stars and Stripes in late January. “Any time new tonnage is brought under the American flag, it’s a positive reflection on the men and women of the U.S. Merchant Marine,” stated SIU Vice President Contracts George The newly reflagged ship, making its first voyage under the Stars and Tricker. “In this case, it obviously Stripes, transits Germany’s Kiel Canal during a snow shower. (Photo speaks well of the SIU memberby Juergen Braker). In the photo at right, SIU crew members prep for a ship, and it means new jobs.” shipboard safety drill. The Carat is outfitted with March 2012 10802_X.indd 3 state-of-the-art navigation and communication equipment. Constructed in China under German design and supervision, the vessel has a beam of approximately 76 feet. Tricker added that although the new ship is sailing in commercial trades, additions like the Carat also boost U.S. national security by helping maintain a pool of well-trained American mariners. Many if not most or all of those same individuals sailing on commercial ships also are available to serve on U.S. military support vessels like the ones utilized in the Persian Gulf War, Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom. Seafarers LOG 3 2/23/2012 2:54:07 PM �MSC Commander Tours SIU-Affiliated School Rear Adm. Mark Buzby, commander, U.S. Military Sealift Command, toured the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education on Jan. 26. A few photos from the tour are shown here. SIU President Michael Sacco is at far right in the classroom photo. The school is located in Piney Point, Md. Admiral Buzby (right in photo at top left) visits the Joseph Sacco Fire Fighting and Safety School, which is part of the Paul Hall Center. SIU Exec. VP Augie Tellez (left) explains some of the school’s features. Standing behind them is Robby Springer. In the photo immediately above, upgraders in a certified chief cook class enjoy their photo opportunity with the MSC commander. Pictured from left are Marcus Logan, Bernadette Yancy, Admiral Buzby, Lamond Fulton (front), Esper Jordan (rear) and Gary Cruz. Two members of Unlicensed Apprentice Class 753 (photo at left), Jose Gonzalez Del Valle (left) and Jonaime Encarnacion, help welcome Admiral Buzby. ITF Inspectors Meet in Piney Point for Training Conference Focuses On Capability of New Information Technology The International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF) conducted a training symposium Feb. 7-9 at the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. The conference was attended by 26 ITF inspectors and their staffs from seven countries. Its purpose was to familiarize participants with the capabilities of a new information technology system that is being installed to make the job of inspecting flag of convenience (FOC) ships easier. Purchased by the ITF’s Special Seafarers Department, the new state-of-theart system boasts an up-to-date database that stores a myriad of information on all FOC vessels. Included are specifics about violations and shortcomings on such issues as lost or unpaid wages, safety, work hours and working conditions. According to SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel, who also serves as the ITF Seafarers’ Section Chair, “This equipment is going to be a huge improvement over the existing method because inspectors will now have the ability to track the actions of each vessel as they transit from one location to another. “Not only will this technology give inspectors a heads up on vessels and 4 Seafarers LOG 10802_2X.indd 4 Those who participated in the symposium hailed from seven countries. their locations,” Heindel continued, “it will also allow them to easily identify problem vessels when they enter ports and single out those that have ongoing and/or unresolved issues.” Heindel said that in years past, inspectors had to board ships when they entered ports and in the process of servicing them, look around and talk to crew members to find out if anything was wrong. “Now they’ll already know if a vessel has problems, what those problems are and what is being done to resolve them,” he said. “Inspectors can now do a more professional and efficient job.” The ITF is a federation of 779 transport trade unions in 155 countries, repre- senting more than 4.6 million workers. Founded in 1896 in London, the organization represents transport workers at the world level and promotes their interests through global campaigning and solidarity. It is dedicated to the advancement of independent and democratic trade unionism, and to the defense of fundamental human and trade union rights. March 2012 2/24/2012 7:19:36 PM �Union Membership Increases in 2011 The number of men and women who are union members has grown in the past year, according to a report released by the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). The findings have received praise from members of the U.S. Department of Labor, the AFL-CIO, and workers across the country. Union membership had a net increase of 49,000 in 2011, bringing the total number of union workers to 14.8 million for the year. The largest gains were in the construction, health care, and retail trades. The gains also include 15,000 new union jobs for young workers ages 16-24. Secretary of Labor Hilda Solis applauded the news, pointing out that being a union member is not only a factor in creating a better life and future, but also provides a level playing field for working people. “Ensuring that all people have a voice at work and protecting their right to organize and bargain collectively are essential for an ITF Official Earns Lloyd’s List Laurels Working to protect the rights of mariners around the world has earned recognition for the International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF) and the chair of its Seafarers’ Section, SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel. Publishing giant Lloyd’s List recently circulated a 106page magazine describing individuals whom they tabbed as the 100 most influential people in the shipping industry. Heindel’s work for the federation earned him a place on that list, which Lloyd’s unapologetically promotes as subjective. Lloyd’s in part asserts that as the Seafarers’ Section chair, “David Heindel has his work cut out in the current climate. Economic turmoil unfortunately tends to hit seafarers hardest, even without the continuing threat from piracy.” Other U.S.-based people on the list include Federal Maritime Commissioner Richard Lidinsky and Overseas Shipholding Group President and CEO Morten Arntzen. Heindel pointed out that the list’s introductory text indicates the publisher’s hope that the rankings will help “spark debate” about the shipping industry. “For that reason alone, I think it’s important that the ITF was included,” Heindel said. “The rights and working conditions of merchant mariners should and must be part of any discussion about our industry. And on a global level, it’s certainly no exaggeration to say that the ITF is front and center when it comes to standing up for seafarers.” More information about the federation, to which the SIU is affiliated, may be found at www.itfglobal.org. March 2012 10802_2X.indd 5 America that’s built to last, where everyone gets a fair shot, everyone pays his or her fair share and everyone plays by the same rules,” said Solis. The annual study by the BLS found that union workers (full-time wage or salary), on average, earned $200 more per week than non-union workers. In addition, union membership correlates strongly with better access to health care, retirement benefits, and a middle-class living. Full-time workers were twice as likely to be members of a union as their part-time counterparts. AFL-CIO President Richard Trumka also lauded the news, pointing to the significance that the statistics show in the wake of prolonged state-level attacks on unions and their members. Trumka also noted that being a union member not only gives a worker a proven advantage financially, but also helps him or her do a better job. “The ability to come together for a voice on the job gives working people the power to solve workplace problems, to innovate on the job, and to improve their working conditions,” said Trumka. “Collective bargaining brings democracy inside the workplace door and fosters a fair, strong middle-class economy. That’s why the labor movement is working with the next generation of workers, as well as emerging industries, to ensure that each person has a voice in the workplace and an economy that restores balance.” The results of the study show that the majority of unionized workers are in the public sector with less than seven percent of private-sector workers belonging to a union. This presents a set of challenges for the labor movement, but also opportunity for private-sector workers to realize the benefits of collective bargaining rights and union representation. The report also concluded that the largest numbers of union members lived in California (2.4 million) and New York (1.9 million). Kimberly Freeman Brown, executive director of the advocacy group American Rights at Work, said the report demonstrates that “despite the egregious attacks on public sector workers, the continuous assault on collective bargaining from politicians at every level of government, and the obstacles workers still face when they try to join together in a union, Americans are holding their ground. Jobs are finally coming back, and with them, an increased number of workers with access to fair pay, decent benefits, and a voice on the job. Many of these new union jobs are a direct result of unions working together with their employers to weather the economic storm. For instance, as the auto industry rebounded, GM and the UAW collaborated to restore production and good, American jobs.” SIU, MSC Continue CMPI 610 Negotiations Editor’s note: This article is part of a series to advise MSC CIVMARS in the SIU Government Services Division about the ongoing efforts to complete Civilian Marine Personnel Instruction 610 (CMPI 610) negotiations. As noted in previous LOG pieces, CMPI 610 covers Hours of Work and Premium Pay for all CIVMARS employed aboard MSC vessels. The SIU and MSC continued their ongoing CMPI 610 negotiations followed by a break in the negotiations during fall 2011. The last negotiation session took place at the Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service between Jan. 30 and Feb. 3, 2012. The parties have now completed nearly all of the new language for the Instruction, with a few outstanding items remaining to be negotiated. The parties have turned much of their attention to the financial modeling stage of the negotiations. Over the last several months, the parties have been engaged in an extensive financial modeling process to ensure that whatever changes are made have a minimal effect on the overall economic impact for CIVMARS as well as for MSC. This process involves analyses of ships’ logs, payroll records and other data that documents the various work evolutions which may result in overtime and premium pay. Much of the recent financial modeling was done at MSC Norfolk (MSFSC) during January 2012. In addition to the financial modeling, the parties are continuing to refine, clarify and organize the language of the revised CMPI 610 to ensure that the finished product is written as clearly as possible. Much of the criticism of the current Instruction has to do with its confusing and repetitive provisions. Negotiators made every effort to address these well-founded concerns. At each bargaining session, the negotiators worked carefully to eliminate the confusion, misapplication and inconsistent language currently found in the Instruction. The new document is being thoroughly examined to make certain that the language that was reached through these negotiations accurately reflects the intent of the parties in the final SIU Government Services Division members aboard ships including the USNS Charles Drew (left, pictured in the Arabian Gulf in early February delivering supplies to the guided-missile cruiser USS Cape St. George) are affected by the Civilian Marine Personnel Instruction. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Christopher S. Johnson) product. As the parties complete the negotiations, work begins on the process of preparing to “roll out” the revised CMPI 610 in order to get the many users of this Instruction familiar with the changes and train all licensed and unlicensed CIVMARS about the new provisions to ensure the consistent application of the work rules. The SIU will continue to update MSC CIVMARS about this important initiative in future issues of the LOG. Defense Dept. Modifies Imminent Danger Pay The U.S. Department of Defense recently announced a federally mandated change to the way imminent danger pay (IDP) is determined. This change affects merchant mariners as well as members of the armed forces. As noted by the DOD, mariners and service members previously would receive a specific amount of IDP per month ($225) if they spent any part of that month in an area where such pay was authorized. However, that formula changed when this year’s National Defense Authorization Act was signed into law. The upshot is that mariners and service members now are paid a prorated daily amount of IDP ($7.50, or one-thirtieth of $225) only for the days actually spent in areas that qualify for such pay. Among the currently eligible countries are Afghanistan, Iraq, Kuwait, Kenya and the Philippines. At the discretion of the Defense secretary, exceptions may be made for mariners or troops who are “exposed to a hostile-fire incident,” regardless of location. They may receive the full monthly amount of $225. Seafarers LOG 5 2/24/2012 7:19:38 PM �Heavy-Lift Ship Ocean Atlas Circles the Globe Editor’s note: The following story was written by the captain of the Ocean Atlas. On Sept. 24, 2011 the M/V Ocean Atlas, a heavy-lift ship operated by Pacific-Gulf Marine, headed by former SIU member Captain Scott Arthur Lund left Houston with a cargo of oil-rig components bound for Papua New Guinea. Little did the crew know at the time but the voyage would turn into an around-the-world odyssey. After transiting the Panama Canal, the vessel encountered the first major storm of the voyage. As the weather intensified, a call for assistance to the site of a downed aircraft was received. The Intermarineowned Ocean Atlas diverted into the storm to assist in rescue operations. After a few hours the rescue effort was called off as word was received of a false alarm. The Ocean Atlas sailed on to Hawaii for bunkers and then proceeded to Papua New Guinea to deliver its cargo. While we were in the port of Lae, the city broke out in severe riots, making life interesting and just a little tense for the crew. Word then came from the home office that there was cargo waiting in Israel. That took the ship to Singapore for bunkers and Sri Lanka for personnel transfer. Sailing across the Indian Ocean, the vessel’s security team ensured safe passage through high-piracy areas: Gulf of Aden (Pirate Alley), Red Sea, etc. The vessel then transited through the Suez Canal and across the Mediterranean Sea to the port of Haifa, Israel. After a short stay in Israel for cargo and much-needed shore time, the Atlas proceeded to Cartagena, Spain, for a very brief cargo stop. Then it received more bunkers, this time in Gibraltar, before heading across the Atlantic. Crossing the Atlantic Ocean, the vessel encountered another major storm, bringing the total number to four for the voyage. The Ocean Atlas finally made it back to the United States on Dec. 30 in Wilmington, N.C., to discharge cargo and go through its five-year Coast Guard inspection. The trip was almost complete but there was just one more port to make it an around-the-world trip. The ship left North Carolina on New Year’s Day and set sail for Houston, returning Jan. 6, 2012 to its original starting point. Captain Lund, in addition to receiving his own certificate, presented certificates welcoming the following SIU members to the Order of Magellan for completing an around the world cruise: Bosun Maurice Hetrick, AB Barney George, AB Kevin Montiero, AB Russell Y. MacOmber, QMED-Electrician Dan Gaffney, GUDE Randy Pacheco and ACU Henry Commanger. During the voyage the ship steamed 26,337 nautical miles, crossed 24 time zones while continuously sailing westward, encountered four major win- Standing left to right are ACU Henry Commanger, AB Kevin Montiero, Captain Scott A. Lund, AB Russell MacOmber, QMED-Electrician Dan Gaffney and AB Barney George. Bosun Maurice Hetrick is in front. ter storms, traveled through all four hemispheres, crossed the equator four times, encountered major civil unrest, sailed through high-piracy waters on numerous occasions, transited two of the world’s major canals (Panama and Suez) and steamed through the busiest shipping lanes in the world including the Singapore Straits, Malacca Straits, and Straits of Gibraltar. Lands Kudos From Keystone ‘Best of What America Offers’ Electrician Even after nearly 40 years as a mariner, the Relief Mission to Haiti Inspires Seafarer Curry Editor’s note: This story was submitted by SIU member Todd Curry, who recently upgraded to chief cook. He sailed as an SA aboard the Lummus and is a 2000 graduate of the unlicensed apprentice program at the SIUaffiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education. When I came home from my last deployment on the MV Green Cove, I found a package from General Dynamics-American Overseas Marine (AMSEA). When I open it, I was surprised to find a letter from the company regarding my service aboard the USNS 1st Lt. Jack Lummus SIU member Todd Curry says he appreciates being recognized for sailing in Operation Unified Response, but the truly important thing is America’s humanitarian outreach. 6 Seafarers LOG 10802_X.indd 6 during a relief mission to Haiti following the tragic earthquake there. Included in the package was a certificate from the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Maritime Administration certifying that I along with the other crew members of the Lummus was being issued the Merchant Marine Medal for Outstanding Achievement for service provided in Operation Unified Response. While receiving this recognition is an honor, I know in my heart that what we did by answering the call for Operation Unified Response – after such a tragic, life-changing event for the people of Haiti – was the humane thing to do, and that’s what’s really important. I am sure that the actions and kindness of all the individuals involved in this special mission will have a lasting effect on the people of Haiti, and I’m proud and honored to have had the chance to be part of it. I also would like to thank my SIU brothers and sisters from the Lummus along with the military personnel whom we carried during this mission. It is such a special thing to see firsthand the best of what America offers not only to fellow Americans, but to the whole world in the aftermath of disasters like the Haiti earthquake. It is because of each individual, both in the U.S. Merchant Marine and in the military, carrying out their duties and going above and beyond countless times, that the mission proved successful. job still brings occasional surprises for Electrician Chuck Wharton. He got an unwelcome jolt during a stint aboard the NS Savannah but handled it deftly, and for his efforts, Wharton recently was recognized in vessel operator Keystone Shipping’s newsletter. The event happened last summer, with the ship docked in Baltimore. A freak storm displaced the gangway and caused the vessel to roll while moored to the dock. Wharton immediately responded – he rigged and secured the emergency gangway and also helped secure areas on the vessel “which showed evidence of leakage during the intense rainfall,” according to the company. Keystone thanked Wharton and credited him “for his professional response and excellent seamanship.” Asked by a reporter for the Seafarers LOG whether he was worried during the ordeal, Wharton, who joined the SIU in 1973, replied, “No. It was surprising, though, and interesting. It happened all at once – it got dark out and just hit.” Once the temporary gangway was in place, Wharton helped ensure the safe departure of a Maritime Administration project manager who’d been aboard the Savannah. Wharton is a graduate of the trainee program Chuck Wharton has been an SIU member since 1973. at the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, where he also has upgraded several times. Seafarers Assist in Military Exercise The SIU-crewed prepositioning ship USNS PFC Eugene A. Obregon recently played an important role in a two-week exercise conducted by the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps. Exercise Bold Alligator took place Jan. 30 through Feb. 12 and was described by the armed forces as “the largest amphibious exercise in the past 10 years.” In this U.S. Navy photo, Marines conduct an “an amphibious assault vehicle debark splash” from the Keystone-operated ship off the coast of Virginia. March 2012 2/23/2012 2:54:16 PM �Feb. 1 Marks ‘A Sad Day for Working Hoosiers’ Right-to-Work (for Less) Passes Despite its Documented Pitfalls It took more than a year and the blatant disregard of clear opposition from citizens, but anti-worker Indiana politicians finally passed a controversial, so-called right-towork (RTW) bill that ultimately threatens to reduce wages and weaken employee protections throughout the Hoosier State. Indiana on Feb. 1 became the 23rd state in the union to pass anti-union RTW legislation. It also became the first state in the country’s manufacturing heartland to enact RTW legislation, which allows workers covered by collective bargaining agreements to shirk their responsibility and opt out of paying union dues. Indiana Republican Governor Mitch Daniels (R) signed the legislation into law immediately after it was given final approval in the state Senate by a vote of 28-22, making Indiana the first state to adopt such a measure since Oklahoma did so a decade ago. Thousands of union members—opponents of the measure—gathered inside the Statehouse and chanted “Shame on you!” and “See you at the Super Bowl!” as the vote was announced. Thousands more amassed outside for a rally that spilled into the Indianapolis streets which were already bustling with Super Bowl festivities, hoping to point a national spotlight on the state. AFL-CIO President Richard Trumka issued the following statement from his Washington, D.C.-based office shortly after the RTW legislation was signed into law: “Today’s passage of the so-called ‘Right to Work’ bill in Indiana marks a sad day for working Hoosiers. It reflects an extreme partisan agenda that is all about payback to corporate donors, instead of creating good jobs for working families and fostering a middle-class economy. “We all know that ‘Right to Work’ policies don’t create jobs. Study after study has shown that they reduce wages, benefits, and safety for all working people–the last thing anyone needs in this economy. “It’s a shame that flip-flopping politicians like Gov. Daniels are focusing on a divisive partisan agenda–rather than creating jobs as they were elected to do. Working people are energized and will remember who stood with them and who stood with the 1 percent on Election Day.” Also strongly condemning the measure’s passage, Indiana State AFL-CIO President Nancy Guyott echoed Trumka’s stance by issuing her own statement. In part, Guyott’s announcement said: “On behalf of all working men and women across Indiana, we are extremely disappointed that the Indiana General Assembly has passed the ‘right to work for less’ bill today. They have set our state upon a path that will lead to lower wages for all working Hoosiers, less safety at work, and less dignity and security in old age or ill health. Indiana’s elected officials have given the wrong answer to the most important question of this generation. “I am reminded of the saying ‘those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it,’ and it seems especially fitting today. Hoosiers have been here before. From 1957 to 1965, Indiana experimented with this exact same law and after its utter failure to produce on any of its promises of economic salvation Hoosiers rose up, changed elected officials and repealed it. It appears we are headed there Still Going Strong at 102! Norfolk, Va.-area retiree Terrence Chase (above) in early February turned 102, and SIU Port Agent Georg Kenny helped him and his family celebrate the occasion. Chase sailed for 40-plus years, most recently as a bosun. A native of Brooklyn, N.Y., he joined the National Maritime Union before the NMU merged into the SIU. He retired in 1985. Kenny brought him an SIU hat and T-shirt, a copy of the current Seafarers LOG and some cupcakes. “He’s still plenty sharp,” Kenny said. “It was a pleasure meeting him.” March 2012 10802_X.indd 7 again. “Sadly, the passage of this bill not only means that workers’ rights and ability to collectively bargain will be significantly weakened, it means that strong-arm tactics, misinformation and big money have won at the Indiana Statehouse. Citizens who stood against this legislation were barred from entering the Statehouse, were denied the chance to testify before the committees considering it and were refused meetings with their own legislators. Independent, fact-based assessments of the economic impact on this legislation were dismissed in favor of stories, promises and unsubstantiated claims by out-of-state special interest groups. And Indiana’s legislative traditions were dishonored as those in power rammed through this bill at reckless speed to avoid further public scrutiny and to please their corporate paymasters.” While backers of RTW laws maintain that these measures, the facts say otherwise. According to the AFL-CIO, RTW doesn’t guarantee any rights. In fact, by weakening unions and collective bargaining, it destroys the best job security protection that exists: the union contract. Meanwhile, it also allows workers to pay nothing and get all the benefits of union membership. Right to work laws say unions must represent all eligible employees, whether they pay dues or not. This forces unions to use their time and members’ dues money to provide union benefits to free riders who are not willing to pay their fair share. Further: n Right to work laws lower wages for everyone. The average worker in a right to work state makes anywhere from around $1,500 to $5,300 a year less than workers in other states. Weekly wages are as much as $72 greater in free-bargaining states than in right to work states. Working families in states without right to work laws have higher wages and benefit from healthier tax bases that improve their quality of life. n Federal law already protects workers who don’t want to join a union to get or keep their jobs. Supporters claim right to work laws protect employees from being forced to join unions. Don’t be fooled—federal law already does this, as well as protecting nonmembers from paying for union activities that violate their religious or political beliefs. This individual freedom argument is a sham. n Right to work endangers safety and health standards that protect workers on the job by weakening unions that help to ensure worker safety by fighting for tougher safety rules. According to the federal Bureau of Labor Statistics, the rate of workplace deaths is 51 percent higher in states with right to work, where unions can’t speak up on behalf of workers. n Right to work laws just aren’t fair to dues-paying members. If a nonunion worker is fired illegally, the union must use its time and money to defend him or her, even if that requires going through a costly legal process. Everyone benefits, so all should share in the process. Nonmembers can even sue the union if they think it has not represented them well enough. The bottom line, according to researchers at the Economic Policy Institute and the American Worker Project is that rightto-work laws work against the critical needs of our economy, our society, and our democracy. Fast, Efficient Action by Seafarers Prevents Environmental Damage SIU members played a vital role in preventing what could have been a major oil spill in an important waterway at the end of last year. A diesel leak aboard the Horizon Discovery had the potential to spill into Newark Bay if not for the actions of an SIU shore gang. On Dec. 30, the Discovery was docked in Port Elizabeth, N.J. That morning, the crew of the ship was off conducting drills for the U.S. Coast Guard, leaving the vessel temporarily unattended. At around 9:30 a.m. the diesel leak was discovered. A gangway man checking on the ship lifted a power pack and noticed that the fuel tank ruptured (with a foot-long crack) and diesel was spilling all over the deck. Upon hearing the news, the SIU shore gang, led by Bosun Jimmy Niotis, sprung immediately into action. “We ran as fast as we could all over the ship, trying to find supplies to stop the flow,” said Niotis. The Seafarers were able to contain and eventually stop the spill with limited outside help, preventing what could have been an environmental mishap in the heavily populated Newark Bay area. “I truly believe we prevented a major catastrophe from happening,” said Niotis. Others at the port that day credited the SIU team for their professionalism, speed, and poise when handling the crisis. “The immediate, fast, effective, and professional response by the members of the shore gang was critical to our ability to control this substantial spill and to contain the oil on board,” said Robert N. Anderson, port relief officer with the International Organization of Masters, Mates, & Pilots (MM&P), who was on the scene. “There is no way I would’ve been able to keep this oil from entering Newark Bay by myself.” Niotis chocks up the effective response to his fellow Seafarers, who he said were the epitome of good seamen in times of crisis. “They did exceptionally well,” said Niotis. “I’m so proud of my guys and the SIU standbys who were there that day. Everybody did more than their fair share; in fact, everyone gave more than 110 percent to stop the diesel from going over the side. They knew we were under pressure and that we needed to stop the oil, and we did.” Company officials took note of the fast action and its benefits. Wally Becker, Horizon Lines ship superintendent, was on board and he, too, commended the SIU crew for their actions, pointing out that the Coast Guard was so impressed that they didn’t even get involved themselves. “I’m damn glad they were there,” said Becker. Training plays a big role in having the preparedness necessary to respond to an oil spill, according to Niotis, and the opportunities for Seafarers to train for safety is a leading factor in the success of the Port Elizabeth shore gang’s efforts. “It helped that knowledgeable, trained people were around,” said Niotis. “Without that, we might not have been able to stop something as major as this.” Members of the shore gang who participated in the rescue included George DiCanio, Chief Cook Cecilio Suarez, FOWT Orlando Reveron, GUDE Edwin Ruiz, and Justin Loddico. The standbys included OMU Gregory Clotter and FOWT Andre MacCray. Seafarers LOG 7 2/23/2012 2:54:17 PM �Labor and Maritime Briefs Alliance St. Louis Brings Last Cargo from Iraq SIU members earlier this year helped transport what is believed to have been the last shipment of war materiel from an Iraqi port. The Alliance St. Louis, operated by Maersk Line, Limited, arrived in Beaumont, Texas, the last week of January. Cargo from the 650-foot-long ship then was moved onto rail cars. The vessel is part of the U.S. Maritime Security Program (MSP) fleet, which supports Defense Department operations as needed, all over the world. A military officer told a local reporter in Beaumont that the Alliance St. Louis’ shipment “is a significant milestone. It’s our completion of what we were assigned to do in Iraq,” said Lt. Col. Mike Arnold, commander of the 842nd Transportation Battalion. He added that the ship’s work wasn’t done: The vessel was slated to take on additional cargo bound for U.S. troops in Afghanistan. Super Bowl Ad Goes Far Out of Bounds Football fans and other viewers who mainly tuned in to watch the ads may have noticed a half-minute, anti-labor commercial during this year’s Super Bowl. The controversial piece, pushed by an anti-union front group, tries to suggest that workers don’t have a say in whether or not they choose union representation. Based on media coverage after Super Bowl Sunday (ads routinely are talked about in the press following the big game), people easily saw through the phony attempt by the grossly inaccurately named Center for Union Facts. For example, The Washington Post’s “fact check” column called the ad “nonsense.” The paper quoted a Harvard professor who stated, “I don’t see what the point (of the commercial) is. Most people who are union today JOIN a company that is union.” A former Labor Department economist said of the commercial, “It is a bit like saying Virginia isn’t a state because none of its current residents voted for statehood.” Additionally, U.S. Rep. Dennis Kucinich (D-Ohio) wrote, “The goal of this misleading advertising is to spread misperceptions about unions so that workers will not join them, and the implication is that workers will be better off. But eliminating unions would not save workers money or in any way improve their position. In fact, in so-called ‘right to work’ states, the workers are actually worse off. ‘Right to work’ laws cost workers an average of $1,500” per year. For more information on the corporate lobbyists behind the anti-union effort, visit http://bermanexposed.org/ Largest Jones Act Fine Upheld by U.S. Government U.S. Customs and Border Protection recently upheld a $15 million fine against Escopeta Oil Company (now named Furie Operating Alaska) for violating the Jones Act – by far the largest fine ever for breaking the nation’s freight cabotage law. A year ago, the company ignored the Department of Homeland Security’s denial of a waiver and used foreign-flag tonnage to move a jack-up oil-drilling rig from Texas to Alaska. In a letter dated Jan. 25 from the chief of the Penalties Branch of Customs and Border Protection, Escopeta’s actions in violating the law are described as “deliberate, and thus aggravated.” John Connors also pointed out that the Maritime Administration specifically told Escopeta that qualified American-flag vessels were available to carry the rig. Responding to the upholding of the fine, industry coalition American Maritime Partnership (AMP) said, “Given the circumstances, U.S. Customs and Border Protection had little latitude and did exactly what the law requires. A $15 million fine – the largest in history for a violation like this – is the appropriate penalty for such a blatant violation.” Secretary of the Navy Ray Mabus recently announced that this first MLP ship will be named Montford Point, for the North Carolina facility where 20,000 African American Marines were trained throughout seven years starting in 1942. Once delivered to the fleet, MLP ships reportedly will join the U.S. Military Sealift Command’s three Maritime Prepositioning Force squadrons (which include a number of SIU-manned vessels) that are strategically located around the world to enable rapid response in a crisis. Federation Leader Responds to Report of President’s Jobs Council In mid-January, AFL-CIO President Richard Trumka objected to some of the recommendations contained in a report by the President’s Council on Jobs and Competitiveness. In a respectfully worded dissent that made it clear he is honored to serve on the council and wants to continue working with President Obama to help create good jobs in the U.S., Trumka in part said, “Our country has become dominated by the interests of the wealthiest one percent at the expense of the remaining 99 percent. It turns out that a country run in the interests of the wealthiest one percent systematically underinvests in public goods; systematically silences, disempowers and underinvests in its workers; and in the end is less competitive and creates fewer jobs than a country that focuses on the interests of the 99 percent.” He said the report “downplays the need for a proactive role for the U.S. government” in many areas, fails to address “the significant additional revenues” needed to address the very problems identified in the report, and “in many cases erroneously identifies the root causes of the underlying structural problems.” Trumka’s complete statement is available at www.aflcio.org, in a January 17 post in the Media Center section. Seafarer Publishes E-Book Recertified Steward Richard Paulson has put together a basic instructional book for those who want to take up golf or improve their games. Titled “Golf as Easy As 1, 2, 3,” it’s an electronic book available at kindle.com. The book contains illustrations among its 64 pages. One reviewer online called it “a great book.” SS American Victory Relives History During Cruise An unforgettable voyage of discovery will be there for the taking March 24 in Tampa, Fla., when the SS American Victory–one of only four fully operational 1945 WWII ships remaining in the country–takes to the waters of Tampa Bay for her “Relive History Cruise.” Embarkation will commence at 10 a.m., with departure following at 11 a.m. The vessel will return to port at 4 p.m. Open to the public, the cruise will feature live entertainment by a DJ from Rhino Cubes, reenactments by the Florida Historical Preservation Group, a silent auction by Memorabilia Magic, Vintage WWII airplane flyovers, maritime ceremonies and ship tours. Hot and cold foods from vendor Mickey’s Game Time will be available for purchase as will assorted beverages. Cruise tickets are priced at $110 per person and are available at www.ticketweb.com, or by calling 1-(866) 468-7630. Tickets also may be purchased in person aboard the American Victory Ship located directly behind the Florida Aquarium at 705 Channelside Drive, Tampa, FL 33602. More information is available by calling (813) 228-8766, or by visiting www.americanvictory.org Recertified Bosun Stephen Argay Snapshots From Aboard The OSG Maremar AB Franklin Akins Chief Cook Evelina Barnes-Nobles, a crew member aboard the Overseas Maremar, took these photos of her shipmates recently while the vessel was at sea. She sent them to the Seafarers Log to share with our readers. AB David Martinez January Lakes Cargoes Increase The Lake Carriers’ Association reported that U.S.-flag Great Lakes freighters (many of them SIU-crewed) carried 3.9 million tons of dry-bulk cargo in January, an increase of 14 percent compared to a year ago, and 41 percent better than the month’s five-year average. Iron ore cargos for the steel industry increased 21 percent compared to a year ago and outperformed their fiveyear average by 58 percent. Coal loadings slumped by 53 percent compared to 2011, but fell slightly less – 45 percent – compared to the trade’s five-year average. Only one limestone cargo moved in January, which is generally typical. Since much of the limestone shipped on the Lakes is rinsed before loading, shipments largely cease when temperatures slip below freezing. The Lake Carriers’ Association represents 17 companies that operate 56 U.S.-flag vessels. AB Zdravko Kerestes AB Paul Altenor GSU Michael Fernandez (left), Chief Cook Everlina BarnesNobles and Recertified Steward Steward Sergio Castellanos (right). OMU Antonio Tindugan Keel Laid at NASSCO for First Mobile Landing Platform Ship General Dynamics NASSCO, a union-contracted shipyard in San Diego, hosted a keel-laying ceremony Jan. 19 for the first in a series of mobile landing platform (MLP) ships. According to NASSCO, delivery of the first MLP vessel is scheduled for May 2013. The 765-foot ship will be used as a staging area for the Navy and Marines. 8 Seafarers LOG 10802_2X.indd 8 Pumpman Lebarron West GUDE Humberto Lopez AB Reynaldo Bernardez Oiler Roy Green March 2012 2/24/2012 7:19:43 PM �Seafaring Snapshots from the West Coast Port Agent Jeff Turkus (based in Wilmington, Calif.) submitted these photos from three SIU-crewed ships that recently were serviced on the West Coast. The Jean Anne and the USNS Curtiss docked in San Diego, while the Green Wave called on Port Hueneme, Calif. The Curtiss is operated by Crowley Liner Services, the Green Wave by Waterman, and the Jean Anne by Interocean American Shipping for Pasha Hawaii Transport. USNS Curtiss GVA Richard Pepper, Port Agent Jeff Turkus, AB Milton Seril, Bosun Dan Carman Bosun Dan Carman Chief Electrician Mark Campbell Steward/Baker Rodulfo Pardilla AB Milton Seril Green Wave Chief Steward John Palughi Some of the crew along with Safety Director Abdul Al Omari (third from left) Chief Cook Peter Schuetz Jean Anne GVA Mohamed Mohamed March 2012 10802_X.indd 9 Electrician Martin Hamilton, Steward/Baker Ronnie Newman AB Dennis Bracamonte, an unidentified cadet, Bosun Thomas Johnson, AB Roger Tupas Seafarers LOG 9 2/23/2012 2:54:29 PM �UNION PRESIDENT ENCOURAGES SEAFARERS – SIU President Michael Sacco addressed Seafarers and apprentices during the February membership meeting in Piney Point, Md. He discussed the ongoing effects of the rocky economy on workers in general and mariners in particular, and stated that the union will remain aggressive and realistic in pursuing good contracts throughout the fleet. He also reminded them that this is a White House election year, and grassroots political action by the SIU has never been more important. CONGRATS ON RETIREMENT – Late last year, longtime member Tony Mercado (center) received his first pension check at a membership meeting in Puerto Rico. He started sailing in 1970 and most recently shipped out as the bosun aboard the Horizon Trader. “Tony is a solid old-school sailor, loyal SIU member and all-around stand-up guy,” noted Port Agent Amancio Crespo (right), who joined VP Gulf Coast Dean Corgey (left) in welcoming the bosun ashore. At Sea & Ashore with the SIU ELECTRICIAN GETS BOOK IN OAKLAND – Seafarer Maximo Lambert (center) picked up his A-book at the January membership meeting in Oakland, Calif. Congratulating him on the milestone are Asst. VP Nick Celona (left) and Patrolman Nick Marrone II. Lambert recently sailed as electrician aboard the Grand Canyon State. ABOARD THE HORIZON NAVIGATOR – Taking on stores aboard the Horizon Navigator are AB Joel Gonzalez, Chief Cook Mayra Gines and Steward/Baker Carlos Sanchez. The photo was taken while the Navigator was docked in Jacksonville, Fla., earlier this year. WELCOME ASHORE – Asst. VP Archie Ware said it was a bittersweet moment when member Paul Stanford, a captain with Crowley, retired earlier this year. The SIU official congratulated him but said he will be missed. Celebrating the occasion at the union hall in Jacksonville, Fla., are (from left) secretary Karen Shuford, Paul and Jan Stanford and Patrolman Brian Guiry. CELEBRATING IN VIRGINIA – Retiree John Cooper submitted these photos of Seafarers, family members and other guests at the holiday party that took place Dec. 16 at the union hall in Norfolk, Va. He also thanked the union for the gathering and said a good time was had by all. 10 Seafarers LOG 10802_X.indd 10 March 2012 2/23/2012 2:54:35 PM �SEAFARERS GIVE BACK - The SIU worked with local representatives from the U.S. Army and the American Merchant Marine Veterans (AMMV) during a successful holiday toy drive. Port Agent Kris Hopkins (right in group photo above) is pictured with other individuals who were involved in the drive, while a small sampling of the donations is shown in the other photo. The beneficiaries are from the Army. Around the Port Of Ft. Lauderdale As the calendar turned from 2011 to 2012, SIU members in the Ft. Lauderdale, Fla., area were busy not only at work but also in giving back to the community. Port Agent Kris Hopkins submitted the photos on this page, which show Seafarers on the job and at the union hall as well as volunteering in nearby Dania Beach. Also included are photos reflecting a donation by the Maritime Trades Department’s Greater South Florida Maritime Trades Council and SIU participation in a holiday toy drive benefitting the U.S. Army. TAKING THE OATH - SIU VP Gulf Coast Dean Corgey (standing at left) swears in Seafarers Paul Ebanks and Isoline Major-Morris at the January membership meeting. AB Ebanks received his full B-book, while Chief Steward Major-Morris received her A-book. DONATING TO A GOOD CAUSE - Shortly before Christmas, the Greater South Florida Maritime Trades Council, which includes the SIU, donated to LifeNet 4 Families, a local food bank. Throughout the year, combined donations through the council to LifeNet totaled several thousand dollars. Pictured from left are SIU Port Agent Kris Hopkins, LifeNet Director Russ Martin, Al Lichtman from Painters District Council 78, and retired Teamster Gino Cortellesse (who serves on the council). ABOARD CROWLEY ATB - Recertified Steward Judi Chester (above left) and Cook William Sanchez (above right) are pictured aboard Crowley’s new articulated tug-barge Legacy/750-1. The ATB was christened in early November in New Orleans. SEAFARERS GIVE BACK SOME MORE - Members recently continued participating in a program that offers home improvements for citizens who need assistance. Shown in the group photo at right are (from left) AB Bruce Raquet, an unidentified volunteer, Dania Beach Vice Mayor Bobbie Grace, GUDE Alex Capellan and Recertified Steward Danny Brown. Capellan (above) and Racquet (left) show off their respective painting skills in the other photos. March 2012 10802_X.indd 11 Seafarers LOG 11 2/23/2012 2:54:40 PM �Capt. Mike Woolard With Allied Crew The East and Gu More than 100 Seafarers work at Allied. The photos on these two pages show SIU boatmen who sail aboard Allied Transportation Co. vessels. The images were taken late last year by SIU Norfolk, Va., Port Agent Georg Kenny. As reported last month, Seafarers at Allied recently ratified a new three-year contract. That agreement maintains AB Gershom Bempah Chief Engineer Jamie Watson, AB Mark Pruitt medical bene increase in th More than boats along th cal products vessels. The c Capt. Steve Lewis Engineer Travis Hudgins Engineer James Kokosinki, Cargo Mate Steven Shelton Chief Engineer Jeffrey Potter, AB Buddy Holden 12 Seafarers LOG 10802_X.indd 12 OS Jacob Hodgon, Chief Engineer William Racette SIU boatmen at Allied recently ratified a new three-year contract. AB/Cook Elwin Lebouef AB Zach Block March 2012 2/23/2012 2:54:48 PM �AB Phillip Beardin, AB Douglas Reynolds AB James Shuttleworth AB Larry Blount Crews Along d Gulf Coasts medical benefits and increases wages. It also includes an increase in the food allowance aboard Allied vessels. More than 100 SIU members work at Allied, sailing on boats along the East and Gulf coasts. They transport chemical products aboard articulated tug-barge units and other vessels. The company is based in Norfolk. Utility Andrew Volden, Chief Engineer Jake Delcambre contract. AB Russell Struyk, Mate Jim Pearson Capt. Andy Higbee Mate Tyler Percy, Capt. Kendal Deihl March 2012 10802_X.indd 13 Seafarers LOG 13 2/23/2012 2:54:54 PM �Recollections from the Murmansk Run Editor’s note: The October and November 2011 editions of the Seafarers LOG featured the first two installments of an occasional series written by retired mariner Ed Woods, who first shipped out at age 16, during World War II. LOG readers were introduced to Woods’ writing when he shared a separate story that was published off and on from September 2010 to July 2011. “Recollections from the Murmansk Run” is a combination of Woods relaying the accounts of an old shipmate and filling in the blanks “with what I think could have taken place, based on my own war-time experiences at sea. For this reason, I call this narrative a nonfiction novel.” The names of the main character (Johnny Johnston) and his vessels are fictional. The World War II convoys to the Russian ports of Murmansk and Archangel were dangerous and often deadly. Dozens of Americanflag ships were sunk on the Murmansk Run, including many SIU-crewed vessels. The most recent installment ended as the calendar turned from 1943 to 1944, with the Liberty ship S/S John Henry carrying explosives in a convoy eventually destined for Murmansk, escorted by British destroyers. Loud explosions filled the air and the ship vibrated, as the two of us grabbed our lifejackets and raced topside. The air was filled with black smoke and, yet, in the darkness, I could see ships on fire. Liberty ships are not noted for their speed and it was obvious the engine crew had the John Henry going as fast as she could. Larry and I went to our battle stations where we were told that the convoy was breaking up. We were in the middle of a German wolf pack and the commodore had ordered every ship to separate from the group and to sail alone. “Every ship for itself!” Fortunately, it began to snow and a dense fog developed, as we made our way north. In the morning when the fog had lifted, it was reported that a U-boat was following us. There was no sleep for anyone. We were taking turns at battle stations, standing lookout and drinking coffee in the mess hall. No one could understand why the U-boat couldn’t or wouldn’t catch up with us. Our top speed was less than 10 knots and surely, a U-boat could do that when surfaced. Ensign Kelly came to the mess hall and told us that it was his belief that the sub was out of torpedoes and had only its deck gun to use against us. This meant that we had the advantage. We had more firepower. The question then was why was he bothering to follow us? Powell had an answer to that too: “That sub is radioing our position to other German ships and subs. It’s possible that German aircraft will come after us as they have air and sea bases in northern Norway.” That night, after darkness, we slowed down hoping that the sub wouldn’t see us. Kelly said once we got close enough to the sub, he was going have the John Henry open up with all its firepower and blow that dam sub to kingdom come. “We have the advantage, let’s use it.” However, after a discussion with our Captain Behlmer, Kelly decided on a different tactic. The John Henry would come to a complete halt, the engines stationary and all hands maintaining complete silence. “Let the bastards come to us. We’ll give them a nice warm welcome.” Of course, he was expecting and hoping that the sub would keep on a course directly behind us and we would see it before it saw us. Kelly had every gun manned and ready to be fired. A few hours later, we heard shouting aboard ship and our guns opened up. The John Henry had turned 90 degrees so its port side was facing the unsuspecting sub, giving both the forward 3-50 and the aft 5-38 a target. We crossed the T, as the British navy called it. The position allowed four of our 20 mms to take part in the attack. The noise was deafening. In between, I could hear, “We got ’em, we fooled ’em.” Sorry to say, the U-boat was able to get a few shots off from its deck gun. One shell hit the bridge, killed the helmsman and the third mate and damaged the steering wheel. The good news: The sub was blown apart and what was left of it went down below to the bottom of the Arctic Ocean. Captain Behlmer and other mates raced aft to the emergency steering wheel to try to regain control of the ship. They soon had it working. The area had no cover; everything 14 Seafarers LOG 10802_2X.indd 14 was right out in the open, exposed to the elements. The man at the wheel would be freezing. The captain ordered the bosun to rig up some sort of a shelter to protect the helmsman from the freezing weather. It had begun to snow again and the temperature must have been well below the freezing point. No one could stay at the wheel for long under such extreme conditions. Within a relatively short time, the deck crew had lashed posts to nearby railings and erected a huge tent-like tarpaulin over the entire area. It wasn’t much but it did cut down on the wind and snow. Those of us who were off duty went to the mess hall to warm up and have a bite to eat. Ensign Kelly came and told us how bad he felt about the two crew members that were killed during the fight. He said, “If that German shell that hit the wheelhouse had hit any other part of the ship, we would all have been killed. It wouldn’t take much to set off the cargo we are carrying in our holds.” We were now way off course and only had limited control of the ship. Captain Behlmer and the ship’s officers decided to make for the nearest friendly landfall to try to have our helm and bridge repaired. I had never heard of the place: Franz Josef offer you any supplies,” were the last words Ski translated for Captain Behlmer. The captain summoned the entire John Henry crew to the mess hall to explain our situation. For one, we would need to conserve our fuel; this meant there would be days when there would be little or no heat on the ship and at night, with the exception of emergency lights, all lights would be shut off. He said he not only was concerned about having enough fuel to see us through the winter but, more importantly, when the repairs are made and we can break through the ice, we would need fuel to get us to a friendly port where we can refuel and obtain supplies. He laughed and said, “You all had better like fish because you are going to see a lot of it on the menu. I expect there will be seal meat on our tables too.” He went on to say that he had no objection to the crew going ashore when off duty. “You can walk ashore over the ice.” However, he warned against leaving the ship unarmed, as there were wild animals on the island, in particular, polar bears. He said we could only go ashore when accompanied by one or two Navy gunners who would carry rifles and side arms. Finally, he said the Russians are our war allies, but on the other hand, they are not very friendly and have not been as cooperative as he In the U.S. Navy photo from September 2010, color guard members stationed aboard the guided-missile frigate USS Taylor stand at attention alongside members from the Russian armed forces during a wreath-laying ceremony at the Alyosha WWII Monument in Murmansk. Land. However, when we arrived, we were treated to a beautiful light display in the sky – the mystifying Aurora Borealis. I had heard about the Northern Lights and I was hoping they were an omen of good things to come. Franz Josef Land is not one island but a group of islands. They are considered Russian territory and we discovered that weather stations and other observation posts were manned there year-round by the Russian navy. Not wanting to break radio silence, our Navy signalman kept busy displaying various international flag signals. A small boat came alongside of us with three men in it. We dropped a Jacob’s ladder down and two of them climbed aboard. It was obvious that they didn’t speak English and no on board the John Henry spoke Russian. We did have an able-bodied seaman called Ski who spoke Polish. Ski was summoned to the officers’ mess hall and asked to see if he could do some translating. The Russian and Polish languages have many similarities and, fortunately, one of the Russians could speak a limited amount of Polish. We learned that a supply ship visited the station every three months. It was possible that if we could identify the parts we needed for repairs, they could be delivered when the supply ship next called. In the meantime, we would be directed to a safe anchorage inside a shallow lagoon. It was expected that the water level in the lagoon would be too low for U-boats to enter unseen; we would be safe there until repairs were made and we were again seaworthy. With great difficulty due to our damaged helm, we followed a small boat into the lagoon. The lagoon had begun to freeze over and within a day or so the John Henry was completely locked in the frozen waters. We then heard the bad news: We would be here until next spring when the ice broke up. The Russians told Captain Behlmer that we would need to make use of whatever supplies we had on board. “We only have a limited amount of food and fuel for our own use. Don’t expect us to would like. “They seem suspicious whenever I ask questions. It’s best we have little to do with them, especially the Russian women at the weather station.” The first two months went by without any incidents. The bosun and our first assistant engineer made a number of fishing poles and it seemed that all we had to do was drop the line in the water and we would have a fish on the end of it. Our chief cook and the second cook surely knew how to prepare food. We had fish at least once a day, at either lunch or supper. Every day, a seal or two would come up from under the ice and eventually Navy gunners shot one and dragged it aboard. The chief cook butchered it and we all enjoyed our first seal steaks. We saw polar bears in the distance but they kept away from us. One time we saw a polar bear sitting on the ice a few hundred feet away from the ship. He looked like he was waiting for something and surely enough, a seal came up and he made a grab for it. That was the end of that seal. Boredom began to set in while we were at anchorage in the lagoon. We would take walks over the ice to the shore looking for anything different to see or to give us something to talk about. There were mountains about two to three thousand feet high all around us; they were completely ice-covered and impossible to climb without special equipment. A few of the men claimed to have seen a fox or a wolf or two but it was obvious that except for polar bears, the local animal life kept out of our sight as much as possible. We tried to visit the Russians at the weather station but they had an armed guard at the gate of their compound and he refused to let us pass. The older crew members expressed their disappointment. They wanted to see what the Russian women looked like. I discovered that some of the old-time seamen were semiliterate, especially the foreignborn. They had quit school at an early age during the Great Depression and frequently knew their assigned jobs better than their of- ficers. However, they couldn’t pass the Coast Guard examinations to be licensed deck or engine room officers. As I began to know them better and we became friends, they asked me to read and answer their mail. I did so willingly and never made any comments about their lack of education. They appreciated my help and were always ready to answer and help me with my own work. The next morning, three oddly dressed people came to the ship. It took us a few minutes to decide who and what they were: three middle-aged Russian women. They motioned that they wanted to come aboard. We had them wait a few minutes while we checked with Captain Behlmer and obtained his permission. Then we got Ski out of bed and asked him to try to translate for us. He quickly learned that one of the women was a Polish conscript and, of course, could speak both Polish and Russian. The rest was easy. Their senior officer had told them to entertain the Americans in any manner they thought would be pleasing to these poor unfortunate foreigners. Three of the older deckhands immediately invited them into the mess hall and suggested they take their heavy furs and skins off so we could see what they looked like. Ski was asked to please stay while it was decided what could be done next. I don’t want to go into drawn-out details but the women stayed on board for two whole days…. I stayed away from them and so did Larry. When I looked closely at the women, I could not help but notice that they were close to my mother’s age and, being only 16, it turned me off. Also Larry and I had been warned in boot camp about the various diseases one could catch from loose women. No, it was not for Larry or me. That’s not to say that I wasn’t tempted, but I decided to wait until the right girl came along…. Throughout the rest of our stay, I went with some of older guys and tried a number of times to get past the guard at the Russian compound to see if they could chat with the women. No luck! He wouldn’t let us in. Life went on aboard ship and the boredom continued. At night when the heat was shut off, we went to bed early wearing most of our clothing. In the morning we would have heat for a few hours – enough to take a warm shower. Later during our stay, we had to limit our showers to once a week. One bright afternoon, an unidentified airplane flew over us. General quarters was sounded and we ran to our battle stations. The lookouts reported that the plane had no identifying markings. It was decided that it was an enemy spotter plane from God knows where. The watches were doubled and all guns kept at the ready. The next day, two small bombers with big swastikas painted on the fuselages flew over. First they machine gunned us and then dropped bombs. We opened up on them with everything we had; every gun aboard ship kept up a constant fire. One plane flew off into the distant horizon and the other caught fire and crashed into a mountainside on the island. The German machine guns’ bullets made dents in our decks but luckily did not hit any of our explosive cargo. Captain Behlmer sent the bosun and four crew members ashore to try to locate the downed bomber and see if they could salvage any material or information. He said to look for codebooks and so forth. When the men returned, they reported that the Russians had gotten to the plane wreckage before they arrived at the scene and would not let them near it. In fact, the Russians were armed and threatened them with their rifles. Captain Behlmer came to our mess hall and said, “I’ve had enough of this. We’re supposed to be allies and these damn Russians are treating us like the enemy. I am seriously thinking of breaking radio silence and letting the authorities know how we are being dealt with here.” The old-timers expressed surprise at Captain Behlmer coming aft to our mess hall and confiding in us. It was unusual, to say the least. We mentioned this to our first and he said, “Well, you know we are all in this predicament together and will share whatever good or bad comes out of it. I believe Captain Behlmer wants all of us to know that we need each other and that he depends on all of us to cooperate and do the right thing.” The following day, Captain Behlmer and two of his officers, his first and second mates, Continued on next page March 2012 2/24/2012 7:19:45 PM �Murmansk Run Memories Dispatchers’ Report for Deep Sea Continued from Page 14 went ashore to file a protest with the Russian in charge of the weather station. When they returned, it did not take long for us to learn what had transpired. The Russian in charge identified himself as Lieutenant Commander Bresky of the Russian navy. He stated and emphasized that he was in complete charge of the island and then asked, “What can I do for you?” in accented but good English. Captain Behlmer told him that he was disappointed in the manner in which he and the crew of the John Henry had been treated since their arrival on Franz Josef Island. “We are supposed to be friends and allies and yet you have treated us more like the enemy. I am sincerely thinking of breaking radio silence and filing a formal complaint with both the Russian and American governments.” Bresky reminded him that we had not been invited to the island and that we had come here on our own. He went on, “It’s apparent that we are of different cultures and look at our problems and things to be done with very different thoughts. I’ll be frank; I don’t like you or anything American. The only reason I tolerate you or your comrades is that Moscow has ordered us to accept you. Now, please remember, nothing is keeping you here, you can leave at any time.” Captain Behlmer, troubled but not surprised at Bresky’s comments, said nothing in return, left the room and returned to the ship. At the end of the meeting, Bresky had announced the arrival of the supply ship at the other end of the island. “Unfortunately, they were not informed in sufficient time to find the parts you need for your repairs. The supplies they delivered to us will be only adequate for our own needs at this station. You will have to continue on your own. As I told you when you arrived here, we cannot spare any fuel or food.” That afternoon, a meeting was called in the officers’ mess hall. Only the officers were invited and the doors were kept shut to keep the discussion private. Captain Behlmer and his officers decided that we were wasting time and depleting our limited supplies waiting here for new parts to arrive. “For all we know, the parts may never have been ordered. That’s how much I trust these Russians,” Captain Behlmer declared. He went on, “If the chief engineer agrees with me that we have sufficient fuel to make it to the Norwegian Islands of Spitsbergen – it’s about five days of rough weather from here – I think we should make a try for it. We know that most of Norway is occupied by Germany but I’m guessing that Spitsbergen is not. It’s 600 miles from the mainland of Norway and the last I heard the British had a blockade around it to stop the Germans from getting at the island’s huge coal deposits. Spitsbergen is much more developed than Franz Josef Island. It has a small year-round population. It has whaling and fishing stations and an extensive coal mining operation. In other words, there are people and machinery there. I believe we will have a better chance of getting supplies and repairs there than we do here. What do we have to lose? The ice is beginning to break up and our gunnery officer, Ensign Kelly, has informed me that he believes he can keep a path open through the ice using our guns. What say all of you?” We heard later that every officer agreed it was best to get off and away from Franz Josef. (To be continued.) April & May Membership Meetings Piney Point..................................Monday: April 2, May 7 Algonac........................................Friday: April 6, May 11 Baltimore.................................Thursday: April 5, May 10 Guam.....................................Thursday: April 19, May 24 Honolulu....................................Friday: April 13, May 18 Houston......................................Monday: April 9, May 14 Jacksonville.............................Thursday: April 5, May 10 Joliet......................................Thursday: April 12, May 17 Mobile................................Wednesday: April 11, May 16 New Orleans.................................Tuesday: April 10, May 15 New York....................................Tuesday: April 3, May 8 Norfolk....................................Thursday: April 5, May 10 Oakland.................................Thursday: April 12, May 17 Philadelphia...........................Wednesday: April 4, May 9 Port Everglades.....................Thursday: April 12, May 17 San Juan..................................Thursday: April 5, May 10 St. Louis.....................................Friday: April 13, May 18 Tacoma.......................................Friday: April 20, May 25 Wilmington..................................Monday: April 16, May 21 ATTENTION: SEAFARERS Contribute to SPAD (Seafarers Political Action Donation) March 2012 10802_X.indd 15 January 16, 2011 - February 15, 2012 Port Total Registered All Groups A B C Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS 18 0 7 13 4 11 50 28 6 5 10 56 18 28 5 1 8 41 4 32 345 21 2 7 16 5 4 17 24 9 3 7 19 26 7 3 1 6 22 1 18 218 2 0 0 1 1 3 5 1 2 1 1 1 4 0 0 0 0 2 0 2 26 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS 8 0 1 9 5 1 12 19 6 7 7 20 8 10 5 1 1 19 0 10 149 3 1 5 3 1 2 14 23 5 0 2 14 15 4 3 4 9 10 2 12 132 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 1 0 1 0 1 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 7 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS 10 0 3 15 2 13 18 12 3 6 3 22 12 13 2 4 1 30 4 28 201 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS GRAND TOTALS: Total Shipped All Groups A B Registered on Beach All Groups A B C C Trip Reliefs 0 0 1 1 0 1 4 1 0 0 0 1 5 0 0 0 0 2 0 3 19 0 0 1 8 0 2 19 12 0 1 3 13 5 13 2 0 1 23 1 9 113 44 1 6 21 7 23 86 51 9 17 20 82 23 48 10 1 16 62 5 60 592 27 5 14 19 6 5 29 50 12 4 8 27 37 17 4 0 13 22 2 38 339 5 1 1 3 1 3 13 5 2 2 3 3 8 0 0 0 2 6 0 18 76 Engine Department 0 0 0 0 7 5 10 4 1 0 5 1 14 7 20 11 0 0 6 0 2 2 17 6 8 8 5 10 1 1 1 2 1 3 12 9 1 0 3 12 114 81 1 0 0 0 0 0 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 5 0 0 1 3 0 1 6 5 0 1 0 5 1 7 1 0 1 6 0 3 41 13 0 4 15 5 16 24 40 6 15 9 29 21 18 6 2 6 27 1 24 281 7 1 5 10 1 6 24 45 6 3 3 20 34 16 7 4 13 17 5 29 256 2 1 0 0 0 1 2 1 0 2 0 5 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 4 19 5 0 4 5 0 3 7 4 2 3 2 6 13 4 0 5 2 5 1 4 75 Steward Department 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 4 3 0 6 5 0 1 0 0 9 2 0 18 1 0 18 6 0 1 0 1 3 0 2 5 2 0 15 2 0 9 8 2 10 2 0 3 0 0 2 2 1 3 2 1 19 3 0 3 0 0 13 1 7 142 40 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 1 0 2 1 0 0 0 1 0 0 6 0 0 2 3 0 3 6 11 0 1 6 1 5 6 0 1 0 8 1 2 56 9 0 5 17 4 17 33 23 2 9 10 34 17 31 5 4 4 32 3 52 311 7 1 2 5 1 6 14 11 5 4 2 7 18 6 1 4 1 5 2 4 106 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 2 0 0 0 0 0 1 4 3 0 0 0 0 6 3 3 1 0 0 1 0 1 0 0 0 5 0 7 30 26 3 2 10 2 10 10 27 3 1 2 24 21 9 2 12 1 15 2 17 199 Entry Department 18 0 0 0 0 0 2 0 4 3 0 6 0 0 1 5 1 4 1 4 10 10 1 13 2 0 0 0 0 0 6 1 1 11 2 14 14 0 15 4 3 12 2 0 1 23 0 7 1 0 0 2 3 8 0 0 0 7 3 9 111 18 105 0 0 0 0 0 2 2 3 0 0 0 4 8 0 2 17 0 3 0 5 46 0 0 1 1 0 0 1 1 0 0 0 2 1 2 1 1 0 6 0 2 19 6 0 0 0 0 10 5 5 1 0 1 9 0 3 0 0 1 7 0 13 61 38 5 1 17 5 17 27 41 5 6 5 42 42 22 2 10 1 23 4 47 360 20 1 5 5 0 8 9 24 3 1 6 28 39 13 1 14 1 8 0 22 208 725 624 151 76 229 1,245 1,061 307 Deck Department 0 1 1 1 8 3 17 10 5 3 4 4 53 12 29 14 1 2 8 3 8 1 32 14 14 8 18 5 5 2 1 1 5 3 29 20 1 2 22 8 261 117 535 343 Seafarers LOG 15 2/23/2012 2:54:56 PM �Inquiring Seafarer Seafarers International Union Directory Michael Sacco, President Augustin Tellez, Executive Vice President David Heindel, Secretary-Treasurer George Tricker, Vice President Contracts Tom Orzechowski, Vice President Lakes and Inland Waters Dean Corgey, Vice President Gulf Coast Nicholas J. Marrone, Vice President West Coast Joseph T. Soresi, Vice President Atlantic Coast Kermett Mangram, Vice President Government Services HEADQUARTERS 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746 (301) 899-0675 ALGONAC 520 St. Clair River Dr., Algonac, MI 48001 (810) 794-4988 ANCHORAGE 721 Sesame St., #1C, Anchorage, AK 99503 (907) 561-4988 Editor’s note: This month’s question was answered by SIU members at the Houston hall. When did you enter the maritime industry, and why have you stayed with it? Willie Clemmons Wiper/OS I’ve been in this industry for about 20 years. I came over from the NMU. It’s a good career – I like it and it pays the bills. It’s not for everybody, but if you’re looking for a good career, you can see the world. What other people read about, you see. I’m 57 years old so there’s no stopping now. BALTIMORE 2315 Essex St., Baltimore, MD 21224 (410) 327-4900 GUAM P.O. Box 3328, Hagatna, Guam 96932 Cliffline Office Ctr. Bldg., Suite 103B 422 West O’Brien Dr., Hagatna, Guam 96910 (671) 477-1350 HONOLULU 606 Kalihi St., Honolulu, HI 96819 (808) 845-5222 HOUSTON 1221 Pierce St., Houston, TX 77002 (713) 659-5152 JACKSONVILLE 5100 Belfort Rd., Jacksonville, FL 32256 (904) 281-2622 JOLIET 10 East Clinton St., Joliet, IL 60432 (815) 723-8002 MOBILE 1640 Dauphin Island Pkwy, Mobile, AL 36605 (251) 478-0916 NEW ORLEANS 3911 Lapalco Blvd., Harvey, LA 70058 (504) 328-7545 my kids through college, own some property, and can’t complain. I’ve got another nine or 10 years to go – I’m hoping to retire at 67. Andy Beach Oiler I joined in late 2009 and I’m making out so far, you know? Scott Heginbotham Recertified Bosun I’ve been doing this for 23 years, because of the lifestyle. Going around the world, doing exciting things – it has lived up to my expectations, certainly. I’m living the dream, buddy. keep going. I kind of knew I could make a decent living at it. My friend told me about the industry; I called the school even though at that point I didn’t know the first thing about it. They asked me if I had my z-card and I said, “What’s that?” One thing led to another and here I am. Sometimes it’s tough when you’re out (at sea) for five months, but it pays off. Quintin Herrera AB/Tankerman I started in 1978 with the NMU, quit in ’84 and then came back in 1990 with Crowley. In 1997 I went deep sea and to this day I’m still going out to sea. It’s definitely a good way to make living. I’ve put Al Bauzon Chief Cook I’ve been in it since 1993 and I feel lucky to be a member of the SIU. It’s a good organization and I’ve had good jobs. I used to be a bartender on a cruise ship, one of the white ships. That’s how I started. I don’t like being outside on the deck, and the engine room is too hot. I definitely want to Pic-From-The-Past NEW YORK 635 Fourth Ave., Brooklyn, NY 11232 (718) 499-6600 Government Services Division: (718) 499-6600 NORFOLK 115 Third St., Norfolk, VA 23510 (757) 622-1892 OAKLAND 1121 7th St., Oakland, CA 94607 (510) 444-2360 PHILADELPHIA 2604 S. 4 St., Philadelphia, PA 19148 (215) 336-3818 PINEY POINT P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674 (301) 994-0010 PORT EVERGLADES 1221 S. Andrews Ave., Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33316 (954) 522-7984 SANTURCE 1057 Fernandez Juncos Ave., Stop 16 Santurce, PR 00907 (787) 721-4033 ST. LOUIS/ALTON 4581 Gravois Ave., St. Louis, MO 63116 (314) 752-6500 TACOMA 3411 South Union Ave., Tacoma, WA 98409 (253) 272-7774 WILMINGTON 510 N. Broad Ave., Wilmington, CA 90744 (310) 549-4000 Throughout its history, the SIU consistently has stepped up to support other unions. Such was the case when this photo was snapped in March 1970, as more than 100 Seafarers turned out for a big rally in New Jersey backing the striking members of the Newark Teachers Union. The strike was settled just one day after the display of union solidarity. Today, the Newark Teachers Union is the largest AFT local in that state. If anyone has a vintage union-related photograph he or she would like to share with other Seafarers LOG readers, please send it to the Seafarers LOG, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. Photographs will be returned, if so requested. High-resolution digital images may be sent to webmaster@seafarers.org 16 Seafarers LOG 10802_X.indd 16 March 2012 2/23/2012 2:55:01 PM �Welcome Ashore Each month, the Seafarers LOG pays tribute to the SIU members who have devoted their working lives to sailing aboard U.S.-flag vessels on the deep seas, inland waterways or Great Lakes. Listed below are brief biographical sketches of those members who recently retired from the union. The brothers and sisters of the SIU thank those members for a job well done and wish them happiness and good health in the days ahead. DEEP SEA JOSEPH BARRY Brother Joseph Barry, 55, joined the SIU in 1975 while in Piney Point, Md. He initially sailed aboard the Long Beach. Brother Barry shipped in the engine department. On numerous occasions he attended classes at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point. Prior to his retirement, Brother Barry worked on the Houston. He lives in Shalimar, Fla. BENJAMIN BROOKS Brother Benjamin Brooks, 70, began his SIU career in 2001 as the NMU was merging into the SIU. The steward department member’s last trip was aboard the Maersk Montana. Brother Brooks is a resident of North Miami, Fla. RALPH CLARK Brother Ralph Clark, 71, started his seafaring career in 2001 as the NMU was merging into the SIU. That same year, Brother Clark visited the Piney Point school to upgrade his skills. He sailed in the deck department. Brother Clark’s final voyage was aboard the Ltc. John U. D. Page. He is a resident of Saipan. JOHN COOPER Brother John Cooper, 63, became an SIU member in 1967 in the port of New York. He initially sailed aboard the Mankato Victory. Brother Cooper attended classes often at the Seafarers-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. He worked in all three departments during his career. Brother Cooper last sailed on the El Faro. He calls Baltimore home. JOHN DAY Brother John Day, 60, donned the SIU colors in 1970. The engine department member’s first trip was on the St. Louis. On numerous occasions, Brother Day enhanced March 2012 10802_X.indd 17 his seafaring abilities at the maritime training center in Piney Point, Md. He most recently worked aboard the Horizon Anchorage. Brother Day resides in Tacoma, Wash. FRANKIE FARNAM Brother Frank Farnam, 65, signed on with the Seafarers in 1995 while in Jacksonville, Fla. He originally worked on the USNS Antares. In 2008, Brother Farnam took advantage of educational opportunities at the SIU-affiliated school in Piney Point. He most recently sailed aboard the John Boland. Brother Farnam worked in deck department. He makes his home in Harvest, Ala. ADRY LIBRA Brother Adry Libra, 71, started sailing with the union in 1992 while in the port of New York. His first trip was on the Long Lines. Brother Libra was born in Indonesia and worked in the steward department. He upgraded on two occasions at the maritime training center in Piney Point, Md. Brother Libra’s final voyage was on the Charlton. He settled in Brooklyn, N.Y. JOHN ROUSE Brother John Rouse, 65, signed on with the union in 1964. He originally sailed aboard the Choctaw. Brother Rouse worked in the engine department. In 1973, he upgraded his skills at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Rouse’s last trip was on the Overseas Alaska. He calls Faison, N.C., home. JOHN WILSON Brother John Wilson, 62, became a Seafarer in 1968. His earliest voyage was aboard the Sea Georgia; his most recent was on the 2nd Lt. John Paul Bobo. Brother Wilson sailed primarily in the deck department. He enhanced his skills often at the Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md. He resides in Jacksonville, Fla. INLAND CHRISTOPHER BEAHAN Brother Christopher Beahan, 55, donned the SIU colors in 1974 while in Norfolk, Va. He initially sailed with McAllister Towing of Virginia. Brother Beahan was born in Illinois and worked in the deck department. His final vessel was operated by Allied Transportation Company. In 1974 and 2001, Brother Beahan took advantage of educational opportunities at the SIU-affiliated school in Piney Point. He settled in Middleburg, Fla. ROY DELAY Brother Roy Delay, 65, began his SIU career in 1969 while in Piney Point, Md. He sailed in both the deep sea and inland divisions. Brother Delay’s earliest ship was the Overseas Natalie. He enhanced his skills on three occasions at the union-affiliated school. Brother Delay last worked with Crowley Towing and Transportation of Jacksonville. He was born in Massachusetts but calls Seattle home. DONALD OAKLEY Brother Donald Oakley, 62, became a union member in 1972. He first shipped with Steuart Transportation Company. Brother Oakley was born in South Carolina. His final trip was on the Little Curtis. Brother Oakley lives in Fort Meade, Fla. JAMES SANDY Brother James Sandy, 62, signed on with the SIU in 1979. He primarily sailed aboard vessels operated by Cape Fear Towing. Brother Sandy was born in North Carolina and worked in the deck department. He calls Rocky Point, N.C., home. BOBBY SCHEIDER Brother Bobby Scheider, 60, was born in Florida. He joined the SIU in 1990. Brother Scheider initially worked with OSG Ship Management. He was a deck department member and upgraded often at the Piney Point school. Prior to his retirement, Brother Scheider sailed aboard the Innovation. He makes his home in Lake City, Fla. JOSEPH ZOOK Brother Joseph Zook, 67, was born in Maryland. He started sailing with the union in 1973 from the port of Philadelphia. Brother Zook originally worked on a McAllister Towing of Baltimore vessel. The steward department member most recently was employed with Express Marine Inc. Brother Zook is a resident of Baltimore. NATIONAL MARITIME UNION ZACKARY BROWN Brother Zackary Brown, 55, began sailing with the NMU in 1993. In 2002, he attended classes at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Brown was a member of the steward department. He makes his home in Savannah, Ga. This Month In SIU History Editor’s note: The following items are reprinted from previous editions of the Seafarers LOG. 1944 Despite the continuing menace of German Uboat packs and continued sinking of American merchant vessels on their dangerous trips to supply the allied armies, the Maritime War Emergency board decided to slash bonuses for merchant seamen. After assurances to the contrary from Capt. E. Macauley, representative of the Maritime Commission and the War Shipping Administration, the board decided to slash the extra pay for men working ships in dangerous waters. Seafarers aboard ship had objected to the proposed cuts by letter and telegram, citing the fact that the U.S. Navy crews working aboard their vessels were still given extra pay for the voyages, but the MWEB voted on March 14 to reduce the existing rates. 1950 In one of the most significant collective bargaining agreements in modern maritime history, the SIU, Atlantic and Gulf District brought Cities Service’s marine division’s 16-ship tanker fleet under union contract on March 10. The seamen on Cities Service ships gained terms which gave them across-the-board wage increases ranging from $10 to $36.50 per month in addition to the standard union scale of overtime pay. The interim contract provided that the company agree to recognize the SIU as the sole collective bargaining agent for all 16 ships in the fleet, ending one of the longest and bitterest anti-union campaigns on record. The contract also guaranteed Cities Service men hiring rights and it established a solid grievance procedure for job protection. 1961 Two more health clinics – one in Baltimore, and the second in Santurce, Puerto Rico – have been opened by the SIU Welfare Plan’s medical department, bringing the total to six medical centers operated by the union. The Baltimore clinic replaced an older facility located some distance away from the center of union activities. It becomes one of the largest outpatient clinics in the city. Similar in operation to the other SIU clinics, the medical centers provide physical examinations for union members and their families. The fully quipped clinics have x-ray, electrocardiograph, urinalysis and other laboratory service facilities. 1997 SIU members are sailing aboard two newly reflagged containerships – the Maersk Texas and the Maersk Tennessee – that are enrolled in the United States Maritime Security Program (MSP). The Texas lowered the Danish flag and replaced it with the American flag in late February, while the Tennessee replaced the Danish ensign with the Stars and Stripes this March. The vessels, built in 1994, were reflagged and crewed in Port Everglades, Fla. “With the passage of the Maritime Security Act last year and the addition of these ships to the U.S. fleet, the SIU continues its effort to ensure our nation will have a strong, viable merchant marine in the next century,” said SIU President Michael Sacco. Seafarers LOG 17 2/23/2012 2:55:04 PM �Final Departures DEEP SEA JOSEPH DUTKO Pensioner Joseph Dutko, 90, passed away October 9. Brother Dutko became a Seafarer in 1951 in the port of New York. He initially sailed with Delta Steamship Lines Inc. Prior to his retirement in 1982, Brother Dutko, who sailed in the deck and steward departments, worked on the Charleston. He settled in Baltimore. JOSE GOMEZ Pensioner Jose Gomez, 77, died October 6. Brother Gomez joined the SIU in 1972. The deck department member initially shipped on the Hoover. Brother Gomez’s final trip was aboard the Integrity. He went on pension in 1999 and called New York home. CLARENCE HOUCHINS Pensioner Clarence Houchins, 84, passed away October 2. Brother Houchins was a native of North Carolina. He began sailing with the union in 1951. Brother Houchins’ first ship was the Massillon Victory. He worked in the deck department. Brother Houchins last shipped on the Maersk Arizona. He retired in 1987 and lived in Eden, N.C. MICHAEL KADDERLY Pensioner Michael Kadderly, 55, died September 14. Brother Kadderly first donned the SIU colors in 1979. He initially shipped aboard an El Paso Southern Tanker Company vessel. Brother Kadderly, who sailed in the deck department, was born in Portland, Ore. He last worked on the Green Ridge. Brother Kadderly went on pension in 2011 and continued to reside in Oregon. MICHAEL KEITH Brother Michael Keith, 56, passed away July 14. He became a Seafarer in 1971. Brother Keith, a member of the deck department, first sailed aboard the Chatham. He last shipped on the Robert E. Lee. Brother Keith was a resident of New Orleans. UNION SANDERS Pensioner Union Sanders, 83, died October 17. Brother Sanders was born in Alabama, and he signed on with the SIU in 1951. The engine department member’s 18 Seafarers LOG 10802_X.indd 18 earliest trip to sea was aboard an Alcoa Steamship Company vessel. His last voyage was on the Economy. Brother Sanders became a pensioner in 1986. He made his home in Bay Minette, Ala. VINCENT STANKIEWICZ Pensioner Vincent Stankiewicz, 88, passed away October 29. Brother Stankiewicz joined the union in 1951 in the port of New York. He sailed aboard ships including the Louis Emery Jr. and the American Heritage. Brother Stankiewicz was born in Philadelphia and sailed in the deck department. He retired in 1985 and settled in Pennsylvania. FRANKLIN TAYLOR Pensioner Franklyn Taylor, 85, died September 23. Brother Taylor was born in Greenville, N.C. He started sailing with the SIU in 1951 from the port of Norfolk, Va. Brother Taylor was first employed aboard the Steel Architect. His last voyage was with ISCO Inc. Brother Taylor became a pensioner in 1986. He was a resident of Houston. INLAND WALTER HINKO Pensioner Walter Hinko, 84, passed away October 14. Brother Hinko first donned the SIU colors in 1963. His earliest trip was with Erie Lackawanna Railroad Company. Brother Hinko was born in New Jersey. He most recently worked with Penn Central Transportation Company. Brother Hinko went on pension in 1987 and called Little Ferry Borough, N.J., home. JOHN LONG Pensioner John Long, 72, died September 30. Brother Long joined the union in 1962. He worked with Crescent Towing & Salvage Company of New Orleans. Brother Long was born in Louisiana. He began receiving his retirement compensation in 1999. Brother Long lived in New Orleans. PETER MORENI Pensioner Peter Moreni, 81, passed away October 26. Brother Moreni started his seafaring career in 1951. He sailed in both the deep sea and inland divisions. Brother Moreni originally worked with Sprogue Steamship Company. He was a Pennsylvania native and deck department member. Brother Moreni last shipped aboard an Interstate Oil Transport Company vessel. He retired in 1975 and continued to reside in Pennsylvania. JAMES ROCKER Pensioner James Rocker, 77, died September 27. Brother Rocker was born in Alabama. He became an SIU member in 1956. Brother Rocker mainly sailed aboard vessels operated by Dravo Basic Materials Company. He started collecting his pension in 1990 and settled in Jackson, Ala. GRAHAM TAYLOR Pensioner Graham Taylor, 97, passed away September 29. Brother Taylor signed on with the SIU in 1961 while in Philadelphia. He primarily shipped with Interstate Oil Transportation Company. Brother Taylor went on pension in 1980 and called Princess Anne, Md., home. NATIONAL MARITIME UNION Editor’s note: The following brothers and sister, all former members of the National Maritime Union (NMU), have passed away. RAFAEL ANZALDUA Pensioner Rafael Anzaldua, 82, passed away August 20. Brother Anzaldua was born in Texas. He went on pension in 1987. Brother Anzaldua settled in Phoenix, Ariz. JOHN BONCEK Pensioner John Boncek, 86, died August 31. Brother Boncek, a native of New Hampshire, became a pensioner in 1992. He called Titusville, Fla., home. DAVID BRADWELL Pensioner David Bradwell, 75, passed away September 21. The North Carolina-born mariner started collecting his pension in 1993. Brother Bradwell was a resident of Charlotte, N.C. AMADEO CARPIO Pensioner Amadeo Carpio, 97, died June 12. Brother Carpio was born in the Philippines. He began receiving his retirement compensation in 1976 and continued to live in the Philippines. ANGEL CRUZ Pensioner Angel Cruz, 78, passed away September 22. Sister Cruz was a native of Puerto Rico. She retired in 1988. Sister Cruz made her home in Miami. WILLIAM FORBES Pensioner William Forbes, 94, died September 21. Brother Forbes was born in Honduras. He became a pensioner in 1984. Brother Forbes settled in Metairie, La. BENNIE FREELAND Pensioner Bennie Freeland, 73, passed away August 1. Brother Freeland, a native of Orange, N.C., went on pension in 1993. He called Pittsboro, N.C., home. JACK HARDY Pensioner Jack Hardy, 85, died August 16. The California-born mariner started receiving his pension in 1985. Brother Hardy resided in New Jersey. HENRY HART Pensioner Henry Hart, 79, passed away August 30. Brother Hart was born in Essex, N.J. He retired in 1995 and was a resident of Sea Level, N.C. RUPERT HEMMANS Pensioner Rupert Hemmans, 92, died August 26. Brother Hemmans was a native of Honduras. He began collecting his retirement compensation in 1985. Brother Hemmans lived in New Orleans. JOESPH KRAWCZYK Pensioner Joseph Krawczyk, 86, passed away September 9. Brother Krawczyk, a native of Rhode Island, became a pensioner in 1991. He made his home in Attleboro, Mass. WESLEY MORGAN Pensioner Wesley Morgan, 81, died July 24. Brother Morgan was born in Gulf Hammock, Fla. He went on pension in 1985 and called Tampa, Fla., home. 84, died October 18. Brother O’Conner was a New York native. He started receiving his retirement pay in 1974 and resided in Port Richey, Fla. JOSE OLMOS Pensioner Jose Olmos, 88, passed away August 27. Brother Olmos became a pensioner in 1987. He was a New Jersey resident. BENNY PEREZ Pensioner Benny Perez, 89, died August 11. Brother Perez was born in California. He went on pension in 1965 and lived in Charleston, S.C. SALEEM RASHED Pensioner Saleem Rashed, 83, passed away October 12. Brother Rashed, a native of Alabama, became a pensioner in 1992. He made his home in Darien, Ga. WILLIE SMITH Pensioner Willie Smith, 83, died August 15. The Alabama native retired in 1969. Brother Smith called Beaufort, S.C., home. LUIGI SORACI Pensioner Luigi Soraci, 85, passed away August 25. Brother Soraci was born in Brooklyn, N.Y. He began collecting his pension in 1968 and settled in Clearwater, Fla. WILLIAM TORO Pensioner William Toro, 90, died October 10. The Puerto Ricoborn mariner went on pension in 1968. Brother Toro called Clearwater, Fla., home. Name Bettis, Calvin Black, Reginald Bocker, Peter Cisneros, Hector D’amico, Phillip Earls, Donnie Frazer, Thomas McNally, Daniel Silva, Manuel Age 76 89 86 92 86 65 70 67 90 DOD Aug. 7 Aug. 31 Sept. 10 Sept. 28 Sept. 8 Sept. 24 Sept. 14 Sept. 5 Aug. 9 JOHN MORRIS Pensioner John Morris, 91, passed away August 30. The Virginia-born mariner retired in 1970. He settled in Norfolk. WALTER O’CONNER Pensioner Walter O’Conner, March 2012 2/23/2012 2:55:06 PM �Digest of Shipboard Union Meetings The Seafarers LOG attempts to print as many digests of union shipboard minutes as possible. On occasion, because of space limitations, some will be omitted. Ships’ minutes first are reviewed by the union’s contract department. Those issues requiring attention or resolution are addressed by the union upon receipt of the ships’ minutes. The minutes are then forwarded to the Seafarers LOG for publication. OVERSEAS LOS ANGELES (OSG), December 20 – Chairman Teodulfo Alanano, Secretary Rafael Boria, Educational Director Thomas Bain, Deck Delegate James Moore, Engine Delegate Faissal Alamri. Chairman thanked deck gang for job well done and wished a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to all crews. Educational director encouraged fellow members to upgrade at Piney Point and also check individual TWIC cards with respect to recent agency announcement about some cards that aren’t properly encoded. No disputed OT reported. Beefs reported in steward department. Crew read president’s report from latest LOG and also discussed importance of participating in SPAD, the union’s voluntary political action fund. Taking on Cargo Near Philadelphia The SIU-crewed Ocean Freedom (right) on Jan. 20 loads a 320-ton heat exchanger for converting natural gas into liquid form, near Philadelphia. The heavy-lift ship is operated by Pacific-Gulf Marine for Intermarine. Pictured from left in the group photo immediately below are Capt. Leo Bonser of Intermarine (U.S. flag), Intermarine President and Chief Executive Andre Grikitis, SIU Patrolman Robert Wisler and AMO Exec. VP Bob Kiefer. USNS FRED STOCKHAM (Maersk Line, Limited), December 31 – Chairman Andrew Barrow, Secretary Lorraine Keelen, Educational Director Christopher Eason, Deck Delegate Arthur Quinney, Engine Delegate Steven Hoskins, Steward Delegate Toni Johnson. Chairman announced payoff and upcoming change in vessel’s run (from foreign to coastal). He reminded crew to stay current on dues and also reminded them there is absolutely no dumping in the Caribbean zone. Educational director talked about multiple benefits of upgrading at union-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew read president’s report from most recent LOG. They discussed interest in clothing and possibly other items bearing company or vessel logo. Next port: Jacksonville, Fla. GLOBAL SENTINEL (Transoceanic Cable Ship Co.), January 17 – Chairman Lee Hardman, Secretary Vicki Haggerty, Educational Director Vladimir Tkachev, Engine Delegate Johnny Carson, Steward Delegate Robert Haggerty. Crew discussed several issues under “old business.” Chairman said there is uncertainty concerning what is happening with the ship after it off-loads in March. He mentioned that crew recently donated money for annual Santa’s Castle charitable project. Educational director encouraged mariners to upgrade in Piney Point and also allow time for document renewals. Treasurer reported $2,445 in ship’s fund. No beefs or March 2012 10802_X.indd 19 disputed OT reported. Crew requested information on contract. Chairman thanked steward department for job well done. HORIZON RELIANCE (Horizon Lines), January 29 – Chairman Anthony Sabatini, Secretary Joseph Laureta, Educational Director David Watkins, Deck Delegate Rene Rafer, Engine Delegate Adel Irani, Steward Delegate Abdulla Baabbad. Chairman announced payoff at sea and encouraged crew to read latest STCW article in LOG. Educational director encouraged everyone to upgrade at Paul Hall Center’s Lundeberg School. He also reminded crew to keep documents current and don’t wait until the last minute to renew. Treasurer reported $1,702 in ship’s fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew read president’s report from LOG. Crew thanked Steward/ Baker Joe Laureta and his department for job well done. Crew recommended that pension benefits be increased. Next port: Los Angeles. LIBERTY EAGLE (Liberty Maritime), January 22 – Chairman Gregory Jenkins, Secretary Clyde Thompson, Deck Delegate Mark Butler, Engine Delegate Bruce Korte, Steward Delegate Stanley Washington. Chairman discussed restriction to ship and announced room inspection as well as payoff in Washington State. Secretary told crew members to check all documents and keep them up-to-date. Educational director discussed benefits of upgrading at Paul Hall Center. Disputed OT reported in engine department. Crew recommended changes to retirement benefits and discussed various shipboard needs including new mattresses, linens and towels. Crew thanked galley gang for job well done. MAERSK MISSOURI (Maersk Line, Limited), January 9 – Chairman Oliver Balico, Secretary Billy Gigante, Educational Director Jerome Culbreth, Deck Delegate Fermin Baltazar, Engine Delegate James Sieger, Steward Delegate Husain Salah. Chairman reported good voyage and good crew. He announced payoff and said next voyage scheduled to include stops in Dubai, Port Qasim, Salalah and India. Secretary also noted successful voyage and good crew, and reminded mariners to leave cabins clean for reliefs. Educational director encouraged fellow members to upgrade at Piney Point and keep documents up-to-date. Treasurer reported $3,000 in ship’s fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew gave vote of thanks to steward department for job well done, especially for the holidays. Next port: Charleston, S.C. MAERSK WISCONSIN (Maersk Line, Limited), January 14 – Secretary Carlos Olascoaga, Educational Director Ralph Thomas. Chairman said steward department of Carlos Olascoaga, Leoncio Ruiz Gonzalez and Robert Norales Solano did outstanding job for the holidays. Educational director recommended upgrading in Piney Point and also voicing opinions at membership meeting. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew discussed workings of various benefits and thanked galley gang for good job. OVERSEAS NIKISKI (OSG), January 18 – Chairman Anton Sulic, Secretary Justo Lacayo, Educational Director Earl Olson, Deck Delegate Clifton Ayars, Engine Delegate Angelito Basa, Steward Delegate Gregory Johnson. Chairman reported smooth sailing. He encouraged crew to keep documents current and donate to SPAD, the SIU’s voluntary political action fund. Secretary reported all is good in galley. Educational director encouraged fellow mariners to upgrade in Piney Point. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew recommended improvements in pension, dental and medical benefits. Steward department was thanked for excellent work. USNS LAWRENCE GIANELLA (Ocean Ships), January 3 – Chairman Bernardino Eda, Secretary Donna Jacob, Educational Director Florencio Marfa, Deck Delegate Sherwin Jones, Steward Delegate Linda McPhetridge. Chairman discussed various benefits under the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan as well as availability of COBRA coverage. Secretary said previous steward planned to ask about OT issue and will advise upon return to vessel. Educational director encouraged everyone to upgrade at Piney Point. No current beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew read president’s report from LOG. GVA Arzu was recognized for earning safety award. Crew recently caught an 82-pounder while deepsea fishing during off time. Seafarers LOG 19 2/23/2012 2:55:09 PM �Know Your Rights FINANCIAL REPORTS. The Constitution of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU makes specific provision for safeguarding the membership’s money and union finances. The constitution requires a detailed audit by certified public accountants every year, which is to be submitted to the membership by the secretarytreasurer. A yearly finance committee of rank-and-file members, elected by the membership, each year examines the finances of the union and reports fully their findings and recommendations. The annual financial committee will be elected during the April 2 headquarters membership meeting to review the 2011 records. Members of this committee may make dissenting reports, specific recommendations and separate findings. TRUST FUNDS. All trust funds of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU are administered in accordance with the provisions of various trust fund agreements. All these agreements specify that the trustees in charge of these funds shall equally consist of union and management representatives and their alternates. All expenditures and disbursements of trust funds are made only upon approval by a majority of the trustees. All trust fund financial records are available at the headquarters of the various trust funds. SHIPPING RIGHTS. A member’s shipping rights and seniority are protected exclusively by contracts between the union and the employers. Members should get to know their shipping rights. Copies of these contracts are posted and available in all union halls. If members believe there have been violations of their shipping or seniority rights as contained in the contracts between the union and the employers, they should no- 20 Seafarers LOG 10802_X.indd 20 tify the Seafarers Appeals Board by certified mail, return receipt requested. The proper address for this is: Augustin Tellez, Chairman Seafarers Appeals Board 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 Full copies of contracts as referred to are available to members at all times, either by writing directly to the union or to the Seafarers Appeals Board. CONTRACTS. Copies of all SIU contracts are available in all SIU halls. These contracts specify the wages and conditions under which an SIU member works and lives aboard a ship or boat. Members should know their contract rights, as well as their obligations, such as filing for overtime (OT) on the proper sheets and in the proper manner. If, at any time, a member believes that an SIU patrolman or other union official fails to protect their contractual rights properly, he or she should contact the nearest SIU port agent. EDITORIAL POLICY — THE SEAFARERS LOG. The Seafarers LOG traditionally has refrained from publishing any article serving the political purposes of any individual in the union, officer or member. It also has refrained from publishing articles deemed harmful to the union or its collective membership. This established policy has been reaffirmed by membership action at the September 1960 meetings in all constitutional ports. The responsibility for Seafarers LOG policy is vested in an editorial board which consists of the executive board of the union. The executive board may delegate, from among its ranks, one individual to carry out this responsibility. PAYMENT OF MONIES. No monies are to be paid to anyone in any official capacity in the SIU unless an official union receipt is given for same. Under no circumstances should any member pay any money for any reason unless he is given such receipt. In the event anyone attempts to require any such payment be made without supplying a receipt, or if a member is required to make a payment and is given an official receipt, but feels that he or she should not have been required to make such payment, this should immediately be reported to union headquarters. CONSTITUTIONAL RIGHTS AND OBLIGATIONS. Copies of the SIU Constitution are available in all union halls. All members should obtain copies of this constitution so as to familiarize themselves with its contents. Any time a member feels any other member or officer is attempting to deprive him or her of any constitutional right or obligation by any methods, such as dealing with charges, trials, etc., as well as all other details, the member so affected should immediately notify headquarters. EQUAL RIGHTS. All members are guaranteed equal rights in employment and as members of the SIU. These rights are clearly set forth in the SIU Constitution and in the contracts which the union has negotiated with the employers. Conse quently, no member may be discriminated against because of race, creed, color, sex, national or geographic origin. If any member feels that he or she is denied the equal rights to which he or she is entitled, the member should notify union headquarters. SEAFARERS POLITICAL ACTIVITY DONATION (SPAD). SPAD is a separate segregated fund. Its proceeds are used to further its objects and purposes including, but not limited to, furthering the political, social and economic interests of maritime workers, the preservation and furthering of the American merchant marine with improved employment opportunities for seamen and boatmen and the advancement of trade union concepts. In connection with such objects, SPAD supports and contributes to political candidates for elective office. All contributions are voluntary. No contribution may be solicited or received because of force, job discrimination, financial reprisal, or threat of such conduct, or as a condition of membership in the union or of employment. If a contribution is made by reason of the above improper conduct, the member should notify the Seafarers International Union or SPAD by certified mail within 30 days of the contribution for investigation and appropriate action and refund, if involuntary. A member should support SPAD to protect and further his or her economic, political and social interests, and American trade union concepts. NOTIFYING THE UNION — If at any time a member feels that any of the above rights have been violated, or that he or she has been denied the constitutional right of access to union records or information, the member should immediately notify SIU President Michael Sacco at headquarters by certified mail, return receipt requested. The address is: Michael Sacco, President Seafarers International Union 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746. March 2012 2/23/2012 2:55:10 PM �Paul Hall Center Upgrading Course Information The following is the schedule of courses at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md., for the next few months. All programs are geared to improving the job skills of Seafarers and to promoting the American maritime industry. Please note that this schedule may change to reflect the needs of the membership, the maritime industry and—in times of conflict—the nation’s security. Students attending any of these classes should check in the Saturday before their course’s start date. The courses listed here will begin promptly on the morning of the start dates. For classes ending on a Friday, departure reservations should be made for Saturday. Seafarers who have any questions regarding the upgrading courses offered at the Paul Hall Center may call the admissions office at (301) 994-0010. Title of Course Start Date Date of Completion Title of Course Start Date Advanced Firefighting June 2 June 8 Basic Firefighting/STCW April 7 May 12 June 23 April 13 May 18 June 29 Medical Care Provider March 10 May 12 June 9 March 16 May 18 June 15 Government Vessels April 21 June 16 April 27 June 22 ` Deck Department Lifeboat Date of Compeltion Steward Department March 31 April 28 May 26 June 23 April 13 May 11 June 8 July 6 Able Seaman March 17 May 12 April 13 June 8 STOS March 31 April 13 Fast Rescue Boat May 5 June 23 May 11 June 29 Chief Cook These modules start every other week. The next class begins March 3. Radar March 10 May 19 March 23 June 1 Galley Operations/Advanced Galley Operations These modules start every Monday. The next class will begin March 5. ARPA March 24 June 2 March 30 June 8 Radar Renewal June 25 June 25 Tank PIC Barge March 10 March 16 Engine Department BAPO March 31 May 26 April 27 June 22 FOWT April 28 June 23 May 25 July 20 Junior Engineer May 12 July 6 Marine Electrician May 5 June 29 Marine Refrigeration March 10 April 20 Pumpman March 24 April 6 Welding March 31 April 28 June 2 April 20 May 18 June 22 Safety Upgrading Courses Advanced Firefighting May 5 May 11 UPGRADING APPLICATION Name ________________________________________________________________________ Address ______________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________ Telephone (Home)_________________________ (Cell)_________________________ Date of Birth __________________________________________________________________ Deep Sea Member o Lakes Member o Inland Waters Member o If the following information is not filled out completely, your application will not be processed. Social Security #_______________________ Book # _________________________________ Seniority_____________________________ Department_____________________________ Home Port____________________________________________________________________ E-mail_______________________________________________________________________ Endorsement(s) or License(s) now held_____________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________ Are you a graduate of the SHLSS/PHC trainee program? o Yes o No If yes, class # __________________________________________________________________ Have you attended any SHLSS/PHC upgrading courses? o Yes o No If yes, course(s) taken____________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________ With this application, COPIES of the following must be sent: One hundred and twenty-five (125) days seatime for the previous year, one day in the last six months prior to the date your class starts, USMMD (z-card) front and back or relevant pages of merchant mariner credential, front page of your union book indicating your department and seniority, qualifying seatime for the course if it is Coast Guard tested, 1995 STCW Certificate, valid SHBP Clinic Card and TWIC. March 2012 10802_X.indd 21 Serve Safe April 14 July 7 September 29 April 20 July 13 October 5 Chief Steward April 14 July 7 October 13 May 25 August 17 November 23 Reminder for Paul Hall Center Students Students who have registered for classes at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, but later discover— for whatever reason—that they cannot attend should inform the admissions department immediately so arrangements can be made to have other students take their places. NOTICE: National Maritime Center Web Site Provides Valuable Mariner Resources The National Maritime Center (NMC), the licensing authority for the U.S. Coast Guard, offers a comprehensive web site covering mariner credentialing, medical guidelines and much more. The site features a wide range of applications and forms, deck- and engine-department exam information, lists of Coast Guard-approved courses and more. Seafarers are encouraged to COURSE check out the site at:http://www.uscg. mil/nmc/ Mariners may call the NMC at 1-888-IASKNMC (1-888-427-5662). Operational hours are 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. EST, Monday through Friday. (The NMC is closed for all federal holidays.) Various email forms also are available through the NMC web site. ____________________________ START DATE _______________ DATE OF COMPLETION _______________________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________________ LAST VESSEL: ___________________________________ Rating: ____________________ Date On: _______________________________ Date Off:____________________________ SIGNATURE ____________________________________ DATE______________________ NOTE: Transportation will be paid in accordance with the scheduling letter only if you present original receipts and successfully complete the course. If you have any questions, contact your port agent before departing for Piney Point. Not all classes are reimbursable.Return completed application to: Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education Admissions Office, P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674-0075; or fax to (301) 994-2189. The Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education is a private, non-profit, equal opportunity institution and admits students, who are otherwise qualified, of any race, nationality or sex. The school complies with applicable laws with regard to admission, access or treatment of students in its programs or activities. 3/12 Seafarers LOG 21 2/23/2012 2:55:11 PM �Paul Hall Center Classes Unlicensed Apprentice Water Survival Class 752–The following individuals (left, in alphabetical order) completed their requirements in this course Oct. 28: Alphonzo Berry, Justin Bly, William Coffy, Randall Craig, Andrew Devine, Michael Durango, David Gentsch, Stepen Heinz III, Rayshaun Hughes, Andrew Kritz, Justin Machuga, David McGuire Jr., Enrique Medri, Travis Monroe, Ronald Nicol, Justin Robertson, Harry Schrefer III, William Sculley, Jesse Turner and Robert Wright Jr. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Unlicensed Apprentice Water Survival Class 755 – Fourteen Phase I unlicensed apprentices completed this course Jan. 20. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Joseph Arigo, Juan Cardona, Cody Conley, Charles Crowther, Jamar Henderson, Jeremy Jendrusiak, Robert Lloyd, Gina Lucas, Derek Minnix, Matthew Phillips, Marc Silvester, Matthew Thomas, Jose Vega Caraballo and Pedro Vega Caraballo. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Important Notice Students who have registered for classes at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, but later discover - for whatever reason- that they can’t attend, should inform the admissions department immediately so arrangements can be made to have other students take their place. FOWT – The following students (left, in alphabetical order) finished their requirements in this course Feb. 3: Roberto Borras Valencia, Cleavern Brown, Joseph Griggs, Joshua Hammons, Matthew Maynard, Ronilo Monares, Corey Moore Newberry, Fidel Pascua, Andrew Powell, Dhahabi Quarish, Elmer Rochez, Gerald Scott, Daunteley Signal Jr., and Samir Tarsha. Class Instructor Tim Achorn is at the far left. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Radar Observer – Eight upgraders completed their requirements in this course Feb. 3. Graduating (right, in alphabetical order) were: Amancio Crespo, Larry Harewood, Tyrone Hernandez, Charles Hosea Jr., Jeffrey Idalski, Timothy McKenna, Stephen Roell and Kevin Stehlik. 22 Seafarers LOG 10802_2X.indd 22 March 2012 2/24/2012 7:19:48 PM �Paul Hall Center Classes Tankship Familiarization DL – Two classes of Phase III unlicensed apprentices finished this course Feb. 10. Those graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Chivon Arnold, Lakisha Barnes, Patrick Bethel, Richard Brockway, Rodriques Carson, John Cragin, Richard Cristiani, Matthew Curtis, James Dillion, Davis Freitas, Steven Gagnon, Carlo Gentile, Priscilla Greene, Evan Hansen, Frank Jennings, Mark Keller, Do Luong, Trevor Manion, Peter Mertz, Leo Onofrio, Kyle Pardun, Casey Pearson, Davon Peterson, Christopher Sanicola, Jerry Semper Jr., Derrick Siefke and Robert Tomo. BST (Hawaii) – The following individuals (above, in no particular order) graduated from this course Dec. 3 at the Seafarers Training Facility in Barbers Point, Hawaii: John Alexander, William Bridges III, Richard Camorlinga, William Charles, Brandon Dienger, Travis Graham, Philip Mickulas, Danielle Pedersen, Michael Resnick, Mondrekio Robertson, Eric Seabury, John Shepard, Harry Sobolewski, Romina Victoria, Le’Keith Wright, Jennifer Jeter, Michael Jeter and Richard Wojnowski. BST (Hawaii) – Seventeen individuals graduated from this course Dec. 10 in Barbers Point, Hawaii. Completing their requirements (above, in no particular order) were: Sydney Abad, Cody Bair, Khieai Boyd, James Capik, Daniel Crocker, Allyssa Dickert, Ashley Erickson, Joshua Hamby, Amy Kellogg, Matthew McComb, Kevin Millar, Jordan Osborne, Estefany Ozuna, Wesley Shippee, Ryan Spock, Alifton Furtado and Georgia Virgo. BST (Hawaii) The following individuals (above, in no particular order) finished their training in this course Jan. 21 at the Seafarers Hawaii-based training facility: Sarah Allen, Rachel Boatwright, Pedrito Catapang, Sarah Dahlgren, Adam Davis, Diana Fuller, Chase Johnson, Dominic Perez, Justin Pratt, Andrea Sharpe, Mark Tiedt, Christopher Tuccinardi, Crystal VanBuskirk and Brian Wachowski. BST (Hawaii) Eleven individuals completed this course Jan. 27 at the Seafarers Training Facility in Hawaii. Graduating from the course (above, in no particular order) were: Clarence Tabula, Ely Cuaresma, Getolio Medallo, Richard Huffman, Leonardo Cortez, Rico Ecalnir Jr., Wilshire Cortez, Nestor Rapusas, Mark Cabasang, Thomas Farrell and William Dwyer. March 2012 10802_X.indd 23 Seafarers LOG 23 2/23/2012 2:55:17 PM �Volume 74, Number 3 March 2012 Photos of SIU Members At Allied Transportation Pages 12-13 Waterfront Project Proceeds at Accelerated Pace The waterfront restoration project at the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education (PHC) is proceeding faster than originally anticipated. Despite initial delays caused by the acquisition of construction permits, unusually mild weather has enabled engineers to forge ahead with selected segments of the project at a quicker-than-projected pace. “We have been able to get a lot more done that we thought we could accomplish in December and January,” said PHC Vice President Don Nolan. “We’ve had a very mild winter so far and that has translated very favorably toward the project’s completion. “Most of the demolition has been done with the exception of some of the piers that are going to be situated near the rock reef inlet,” Nolan continued. “In addition, all of the sheet steel on the new side of the seawall has been completed and the old crane has been removed.” He added, “I would say that we are about 60 percent through the project right now and we anticipate that it will be completed by the end of May or the first part of June.” Launched May 11, 2010 prior to the christening ceremony for the MV John F. Fay, the project’s end result will be a completely refurbished and modernized waterfront near the school’s north side pier perimeters. Among other things, the project entails the removal of: n More than 1,500 feet of old piers n In excess of 1,000 feet of old bulkheads, and n The old railway, marina, Hagglund Crane and marine museum. Slated for replacement during the restoration project are: n Pier 45 with new concrete pier and floating concrete marina (12 double slips), and n Old seawall with revetment rock. Among the area’s new features will be: n A 100-foot marshland n A waterfront park (green) n Single-point davit with fast rescue boat capability n Pier site for the MV John F. Fay training vessel, and n Lifeboat davit and new lifeboats. Union officials, officers and trustees from the Paul Hall Center (PHC) officially launched the waterfront restoration project May 11, 2010 at the school. Participating in that ceremony (photo above, from left to right were: SIU Executive VP Augie Tellez, PHC VP Don Nolan, PHC Trustee Anthony Naccarato, SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel, SIU President Michael Sacco and SIU Plans Administrator Margaret Bowen. The photos at the top of this page show the flimsy condition of the school’s waterfront pier prior to the launch of the restoration project. Maersk Peary Delivers in ‘Deep Freeze’ At press time, the Maersk Peary was continuing an SIU tradition by helping resupply the National Science Foundation’s McMurdo Station in Antarctica. The yearly voyage is part of Operation Deep Freeze. A few images from the mission are shown here. Vessel Master Everett M. Hatton noted that a U.S. Military Sealift Command official said the Peary’s docking at McMurdo’s ice pier went extremely well. Each Antarctic summer since McMurdo Station was established in 1955, an MSC tanker and dry cargo ship – with assistance from an icebreaker – have arrived to deliver the vast majority of the fuel and dry cargo required to sustain personnel on the continent for a year. Look for more coverage of Operation Deep Freeze 2012 in an upcoming edition of the LOG. 10802_2X.indd 24 2/24/2012 7:19:54 PM � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Seafarers Log Issues 2010-2019 Description An account of the resource Volumes LXXII-LXXXI of the Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Seafarers Log Digital Copies Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 2010-2019 Document A resource containing textual data. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre text. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource March 2012 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES WELCOMING AFL-CIO OFFICIALS REPORT: PIRACY COSTS BILLIONS SEVERE ECONOMIC TOLL MOSTLY FALLS ON INDUSTRY HORIZON RELIANCE SAVES 3 IN DRAMA-FILLED RESCUE SIU MEMBERS SAIL ABOARD NEWLY CONTRACTED MV CARAT MSC COMMANDER TOURS SIU-AFFILIATED SCHOOL ITF INSPECTORS MEET IN PINEY POINT FOR TRAINING UNION MEMBERSHIP INCREASES IN 2011 SIU, MSC CONTINUE CMPI 610 NEGOTIATIONS ITF OFFICIAL EARNS LLOYD’S LIST LAURELS DEFENSE DEPT. MODIFIES IMMINENT DANGER PAY HEAVY-LIFT SHIP OCEAN ATLAS CIRCLES THE GLOBE ELECTRICIAN LANDS KUDOS FROM KEYSTONE ‘BEST OF WHAT AMERICA OFFERS’ RELIEF MISSION TO HAITI INSPIRES SEAFARER CURRY FEB 1. MARKS ‘A SAD DAY FOR WORKING HOOSIERS’ RIGHT-TO-WORK (FOR LESS) PASSES DESPITE ITS DOCUMENTED PITFALLS FAST, EFFICIENT ACTION BY SEAFARERS PREVENTS ENVIRONMENTAL DAMAGE RECOLLECTIONS FROM THE MURMANSK RUN WATERFRONT PROJECT PROCEEDS AT ACCELERATED PACE Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Seafarers Log Digital Copies Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 03/01/2012 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Newsprint Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context Vol. 74, No. 3 http://www.seafarerslog.org/archives/files/original/7ba0147e5ecbf253885d2c288c629b44.pdf 440e81fb58e6440ee33a6e09e9c4ab9a PDF Text Text Volume 74, Number 4 April 2012 MTD, Guests Underscore Need For Robust U.S. Maritime Industry Jobs Crisis, Piracy Among Key Topics at Annual Meeting The executive board of the Maritime Trades Department, AFL-CIO on March 8-9 conducted its annual winter meeting, and as usual, the gathering featured prominent guest speakers from the military, government, labor and business. Both the board and the guests covered many important topics, including the critical need for a strong U.S. Merchant Marine; the ongoing fight against piracy; America’s jobs crisis; the importance of this year’s elections, and more. In photo at left, SIU President Michael Sacco, who also serves as MTD president, stands with Rear Adm. Mark Buzby, commander, U.S. Military Sealift Command. Pictured from left to right in photo at right are MEBA Secretary-Treasurer Bill Van Loo, SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel, and International Transport Workers’ Federation official Jon Whitlow. Left to right in the group photo above are SIU VP Gulf Coast Dean Corgey, SIU Exec. VP Augie Tellez, AFL-CIO President Richard Trumka and SIU VP Contracts George Tricker. The meeting took place near Orlando, Fla. Coverage starts on page 3 and continues on pages 9-14. SIU Welcomes Maersk Texas SIU members in mid-March reported to the newly reflagged Maersk Texas in Mobile, Ala. An outright addition to the union-contracted fleet, the heavy-lift ship was scheduled to make its first voyage under the Stars and Stripes late last month. Pictured aboard the ship are SIU crew members (from left) Electrician Gary Dahl, QMED Courtney Price, GVA Willie Clemmons, OS Melvin Hill, Steward/Baker Michael McDermott, Bosun Kennard Campbell and OS Dennis Marshall. Page 3. Green Wave Helps Complete ‘Deep Freeze’ Page 4 10950_LOG_X.indd 1 Federation Endorses Obama Page 5 Union Plus Services Page 8 3/26/2012 6:54:14 PM �President’s Report Tackling the Jobs Crisis Both during the most recent Maritime Trades Department executive board meeting and then the AFL-CIO executive council meeting that followed, much of the discussions centered on jobs and the economy. Our nation’s financial state and still-too-high unemployment promise to be the most important issues in this year’s national elections, which means we will all hear different plans and ideas for digging out from the recession. The AFL-CIO laid out some realistic, promising strategies during last month’s meeting. But let me back up for a second, for those of you who are new to our union. The AFL-CIO is a federation of 57 unions, including the SIU, representing more than 12 million working men and women. I have served on the federation’s executive council for many years; our affiliation helps give the SIU strength beyond our numbers. Those affiliated unions are autonomous, and I can tell you without giving away any secrets that it’s not always easy to get dozens of union leaders to agree on Michael Sacco something. Heck, once in a while it feels like it’s hard to get us to agree on anything. Some of you may have been aboard ships like that. But our ultimate solidarity is very real and very much intact, and when it comes to a blueprint for creating and keeping good jobs at home, we are clearly united. One of the first points we tackled at the AFL-CIO meeting was the need to stop rewarding companies that send jobs overseas. And that starts by changing the focus of our national economic policy from one of maximizing the competitiveness and profitability of corporations that only maintain headquarters somewhere on U.S. territory to one of maximizing the competitiveness and prosperity of the human beings who live and work in America. Note that we didn’t say companies don’t have the right to turn a profit. We’re not fools – we know that America’s working families can’t succeed unless their employers are doing well. But we are saying that U.S. businesses still can make money by keeping their production here. I’ve said it for years: The national economy is every bit as real and arguably more important than the global economy. We don’t have any interest in protectionism, and Seafarers in particular undoubtedly appreciate the importance of having imports and exports to ship. But it’s like the instructions you receive on an airplane, when they’re explaining how to use the oxygen masks – you’d better get yourself squared away first, or you won’t be able to help anyone else. Something else the council agreed upon is that, to encourage domestic investment and lay a stronger and more stable foundation for long-term growth, it is essential that we tackle the problems of wage stagnation and economic inequality. This will mean changing our labor laws so that all workers who want to form a union and bargain collectively have a fair opportunity to do so. What it also means is making full employment the top goal of our economic policy. We can do that by, in part, shrinking the trade deficit and eliminating incentives for offshoring. Once again, we’re not talking about doing economic harm to other countries. We instead want to make it easier for them to rely on domestic incomes as sources of growth. A key to that step is establishing suitable minimum standards for the global economy, stopping the race to the bottom, and in the process, creating new markets for American manufacturing. The executive council summed it up like this: “We can no longer rely on household debt, real estate bubbles, tech bubbles, stock bubbles or any other kind of bubbles to fuel our economic growth. We cannot go back to a low-wage, high-consumption economy. We need bold leadership to draw the right lessons from the mistakes of the past 30 years and forge a new model of economic growth in which we make things in America again, workers can form a union and bargain collectively if they want to, working people can afford to buy the things they make, the U.S. economy produces as much as it consumes, everybody who wants to work can find a good job and prosperity is broadly shared.” Lofty ambitions? No. This is how our families, our union and our nation were built. We cannot allow the American Dream to fall further and further out of reach. Coalition: U.S.-Flag Tonnage Ready to Transport SPR Oil AMP Urges Adherence to New Rules Governing Jones Act Waivers In a letter to the Departments of Homeland Se- comply with certain requirements to maximize the curity (DHS), Energy (DOE) and Transportation use of U.S.-flag vessels for the transportation of oil (DOT), the American Maritime Partnership (AMP), from future SPR drawdowns before Jones Act waiva broad-based coalition representing U.S.-flag ves- ers are approved. sel operators, maritime unions (including the SIU) Specifically, the new law states that no waivers and allied interests, in late February offered its re- may be granted until the DHS “takes adequate measources to help implement new Congressional re- sures to ensure the use of United States-flag vessels” quirements that should increase the use of U.S.-flag and no waivers may be granted unless the DOT has vessels in future Strategic Petroleum Reserve (SPR) determined whether U.S.-flag vessels are capable of drawdowns. assisting an SPR move. The DOT is now required Several circumstances could lead to another SPR to provide the DHS with written justification for not drawdown soon, according to the coalition, includ- using U.S.-flag vessels during an SPR drawdown. ing an Iranian blockade of the Strait of Hormuz and To ensure that the federal government has adrising U.S. gas prices. There are dozens of American equate measures in place to utilize U.S.-flag vessels, vessels with millions of barrels of capacity available the departments are statutorily required to consult to transport oil, according to AMP. with representatives of the U.S.-flag maritime in“AMP was troubled by the decisions during the dustry. AMP believes that such consultations with last SPR drawdown to issue waivers for foreign- industry should begin immediately, the letter stated. flag vessels, employing foreign workers to transport Meanwhile, the Maritime Trades Department oil from the SPR despite the fact U.S.-flag ves- (MTD), AFL-CIO recently published a story comsels were available to assist,” the AMP letter said. paring new attacks on the Jones Act with the er“AMP recognizes roneous ones that that there may surfaced after the be circumstances Deepwater Horizon where waivers of disaster. the Jones Act are “Now, just as necessary, but we then, [Jones Act want to work with opponents] are the Departments disseminating into maximize the formation that, use of available at best, is highly American vessels, skewered,” the deemploying Ameripartment reported. can workers, in “The MTD and its the transportation allies in the labor of SPR oil should movement and another drawdown shipping industry occur.” have been working The coalition overtime to educonsists of more cate the American than 400 Ameripublic and the new can companies, members of Conassociations, labor gress about the isorganizations, sues involved. The shipyards, defense important thing to groups and others. Jones Act vessels like the SIU-contracted Overseas Tampa, pic- remember is that The Jones Act tured last year in Philadelphia, have proven vital to U.S. national there are proceis a longstanding and economic security. (Photo by John Curdy) dures in place to U.S. maritime law grant waivers if that mandates the use of vessels that are crewed, they are needed. There is, almost everyone in the built, owned and flagged American to move cargo industry believes, no reason to do so when U.S.-flag between two U.S. ports. The law is critical for vessels are available.” American economic, national, and homeland secuIn a mid-March New York Times article about gas rity, which is why it has enjoyed the support of the prices, some industry experts said that waiving the U.S. Navy, many members of Congress of both par- nation’s freight cabotage law likely would have, at ties, and every president in modern history includ- most, a nominal effect on prices at the pump. ing President Obama, the coalition pointed out. The paper quoted MTD Executive SecretaryRelease of oil from the SPR in 2011 resulted in Treasurer Daniel Duncan as saying, “In a time of nearly 50 waivers of the Jones Act, allowing the high unemployment in the United States, ignoring transportation of the oil on foreign vessels when the Jones Act, which has been central to American U.S.-flag vessels were available to assist. New Con- national security and protects American jobs, makes gressional law now requires the DHS and DOT to no sense.” Final T-AKE Set for Christening Volume 74, Number 4 April 2012 The SIU online: www.seafarers.org The Seafarers LOG (ISSN 1086-4636) is published monthly by the Seafarers International Union; Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU, AFLCIO; 5201 Auth Way; Camp Springs, MD 20746. Telephone (301) 899-0675. Periodicals postage paid at Southern Maryland 20790-9998. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to the Seafarers LOG, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. Communications Director, Jordan Biscardo; Managing Editor/Production, Jim Guthrie; Assistant Editor, Paddy Lehane; Photographer, Harry Gieske; Administrative Support, Misty Dobry. Copyright © 2012 Seafarers International Union, AGLIWD. All Rights Reserved. The Seafarers International Union engaged an environmentally friendly printer for the production of this newspaper. 2 Seafarers LOG 10950_LOG.indd 2 The USNS Cesar Chavez (shown in late December) is scheduled to be christened and launched into San Diego Bay during an evening ceremony May 5 at the NASSCO shipyard. The 689-foot vessel, named in memory of labor leader Cesar Chavez, is the fourteenth and final vessel in the U.S. Navy’s T-AKE class. Members of the SIU’s Government Services Division sail in the unlicensed slots aboard those vessels, which deliver food, ammunition, fuel and other provisions to American combat ships at sea. April 2012 3/23/2012 10:22:08 AM �MTD Speakers Focus on Need for Jobs Military, Government, Business Leaders Also Cite Ongoing Need for Strong U.S.-Flag Fleet The need for good jobs in the United States – and the maritime industry’s great potential to be part of the solution – were prime topics during the annual winter meeting of the Maritime Trades Department, AFL-CIO executive board March 8-9 in Lake Buena Vista, Fla. As usual, the meeting featured an array of high-level speakers from the military, government, business and labor. They talked about the ongoing need for a strong U.S. Merchant Marine; projects that may be sources of union jobs; the importance of this year’s elections; global efforts to combat piracy, and much more. SIU President Michael Sacco, who also serves as MTD president, chaired the meeting. The MTD consists of 23 affiliated unions representing approximately 5 million members. The MTD also includes 21 port maritime councils. In his opening remarks, Sacco said that family-wage jobs “are on everybody’s mind all across the country, not just in the labor movement. Jobs and the economy are really one subject, and that’s going to be front and center not only for the presidential election but for other federal and state campaigns.” He said that in order to recover some of the jobs the nation has lost as well as protecting the good American jobs that are still here, President Obama “is on the right track when he talks about rewarding companies who keep their production here at home, and not rewarding the ones who move it overseas. That’s a pretty simple concept, but it won’t be possible to execute unless we have pro-worker majorities in Congress and a pro-worker administration.” Sacco then emphasized the need for membership education, supporting proworker candidates, getting out the vote, and then “following up with the winners and making them live up to their promises.” He discussed federal and state-level attacks on collective bargaining rights, and pointed to recent wins by working families MTD President Michael Sacco (right) opens the meeting. MTD VP Scott Winter is at left. In the photo below, SIU Executive VP Augie Tellez (second from left) and others applaud remarks by AFL-CIO President Richard Trumka. in Ohio and Wisconsin as proof that the labor movement still knows how to fight. He added, “I think it’s ironic that as we’re fighting to protect workers’ rights, a lot of the media coverage has pointed to unions as a key to economic revitalization. Don’t get me wrong – our state-level battles aren’t exactly the preferred method for spreading the word about the union advantage. “But one of the silver linings has been coverage that points out the facts that union members are more productive, earn more money and have better benefits than unrepresented workers. Other reporting – and this is coming from economists and journalists, not from labor organizations – has flat-out stated that one reason the economy is in the tank is because fewer people belong to unions now than they did any number of years ago. We can use that as a recruiting tool. We have a lot to offer.” In order of appearance, the following guest speakers addressed the board on March 8: Capt. Andrew McGovern, president, United New Jersey Sandy Hook Pilots Association; Barry Holiday, executive director, Dredging Contractors of America; Rear Adm. Mark Buzby, commander, U.S. Military Sealift Command; Rear Adm. Wendi Carpenter, president, State University of New York Maritime College; Rear Adm. Michael Devany, director of the National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration’s Marine and Aviation Operations Centers; Joseph Angelo, managing director, Intertanko; and Paul Anderson, CEO, Jacksonville Port Authority. Speaking to the board the next day were AFL-CIO President Richard Trumka; Michael Stotz, president, AFL-CIO Investment Trust Corporation; U.S. Secretary of Labor Hilda Solis (via a video specifically prepared for the MTD); Robert Mitchell, CEO, Atlantic Wind Connection; Jon Whitlow, secretary, International Transport Workers’ Federation Seafarers’ Section; U.S. Rep. Cedric Richmond (D-La.); and U.S. Rep. Michael Grimm (R-N.Y.). Throughout both days, the board approved policy statements that define many of the MTD’s goals and strategies and voice unwavering support for our troops and first responders. Full copies of those statements are posted on maritimetrades. org. See pages 9-14 for more coverage of the MTD meeting Maersk Texas Newest Addition to SIU Fleet The union last month welcomed new shipboard jobs with the reflagging of the Maersk-Rickmers heavy-lift vessel Maersk Texas. Like its sister ship Maersk Illinois, which reflagged U.S. at the end of last year, the Maersk Texas is 485 feet long and can carry 20,000 cubic meters of cargo. Built in 2011, the 19,600 DWT ship features two cargo cranes with a combined maximum lift of 480 metric tons. It has a service speed of 16 knots. The Maersk Texas was April 2012 10950_LOG.indd 3 scheduled to sail from Mobile, Ala., late last month with a load of cargo destined for India. The first SIU crew aboard the Maersk Texas included Bosun Kennard Campbell, ABs Michael Congress, Robert Boudreaux and Billy Hill, OSs Melvin Hill and Dennis Marshall, Electrician Gary Dahl, QMEDs Courtney Price and Tyesha Boyd, GUDE Roderick Thomas, GVA Willie Clemmons, Steward/Baker Michael McDermott and ACU Paula Hopson. Maersk-Rickmers is a joint venture between Maersk Line, Limited and Rickmers-Linie (America) to provide American-flag service for breakbulk cargo around the world. AB Michael Congress Bosun Kennard Campbell, Capt. Nickolaus Keydel, Port Agent Jimmy White. AB Billy Hill, GUDE Roderick Thomas, QMED Tyesha Boyd, ACU Paula Hopson Seafarers LOG 3 3/23/2012 10:22:12 AM �New Contract Secured with Great Lakes Dredge and Dock Seafarers employed at the Great Lakes Dredge and Dock Company have overwhelmingly approved a new contract that features some significant gains, as well as maintaining important benefits. The three-year pact is being hailed as a win-win for both the members and the company. The agreement calls for wage increases in each of the three years of the contract and the maintenance of benefits at CorePlus levels, the highest level possible. The negotiating committee also secured continued company contributions on members’ behalf to the Seafarers Money Purchase Pension Plan. The contract covers both licensed and unlicensed members. “We were able to make some real progress in the negotiations and I think the results reflect the hard work put in by both sides,” said SIU Vice President Contracts George Tricker. “The fact that we secured annual wage increases while maintaining ben- efits is a solid achievement.” In addition to the maintenance of benefits and pay increases, the contract calls for a new classification to be added to the unlicensed agreement. That classification is known, as of March 1, as “Electronic Technician.” The negotiating committee also obtained extra compensation for AB dragtenders and steward assistants. The negotiations were led by Tricker, Norfolk Port Agent Georg Kenny, and Brooklyn Patrolman Terence Maxwell. Representing the licensed crew were Robert Kiefer and Elmer Prestidge and representing the unlicensed crew were Duane Evans and Charles Troutwine. Great Lakes Dredge and Dock Company, LLC is the largest provider of dredging services in the country. Founded in 1890, the company is one of the only U.S. dredge businesses to have a significant international presence. It operates 10 hopper dredges that are crewed by around 100 SIU members. Bargaining committee members are pictured at the SIU-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. Company reps included (front, from left) George Strawn, Bill Pagendarm and (standing, far left) Jack Graham. The union’s team included (front, starting third from left) VP George Tricker, Port Agent Georg Kenny, (standing, starting second from left) members Duane Evans, Jake Troutwine, Robert Kiefer and Elmer Prestidge and Patrolman Terence Maxwell. SIU-Crewed Green Wave Delivers Supplies to McMurdo, Completes ‘Deep Freeze’ Mission The SIU-crewed containership MV Green Wave departed McMurdo Station, Antarctica, Feb. 25, after delivering more than 6.8 million pounds of vital supplies in support of Operation Deep Freeze (ODF). ODF is the annual U.S. military mission to resupply the remote scientific outpost. Earlier, the SIU-crewed tanker Maersk Peary delivered more than 6.3 million gallons of crucial diesel, gasoline and jet fuel to McMurdo Station Jan. 28-31. Waterman Steamship operates the Green Wave, while Maersk Line, Limited operates the Peary. The U.S. Military Sealift Command (MSC) pointed out that during the yearly ODF mission, the agency’s civilian-crewed ships “deliver 100 percent of the fuel and about 80 percent of the supplies that researchers and support personnel who live and work across Antarctica need to survive and work over the course of a year.” “MSC’s Operation Deep Freeze support is truly a ‘no failure accepted’ mission,” said Tim McCully, MSC Pacific deputy commander. “Without the fuel, food, and other support materials delivered by our chartered ships, researchers could not continue their operations through the brutal Antarctic winter.” SIU-crewed ships operated for MSC have made the challenging voyage to Antarctica for decades. Two SIU-crewed ships – the Green Wave (above, at McMurdo Station The station was established in 1955. During the most recent ODF, although the Maersk in February) and the Maersk Peary – transported vital cargo during this Peary and Green Wave have hulls designed to withyear’s Operation Deep Freeze. (U.S. Navy photo by Larry Larsson) stand the pressure of ice, both ships were escorted through a 15-mile ice channel – in places more than 13 feet thick – by an icebreaker that carved a safe path to the station. The Green Wave arrived at McMurdo Station Feb. 13 with cargo loaded on board in Port Hueneme, Calif., in early January, including food and research equipment. Typically, the ODF cargo ship off-loads at a 500foot ice pier that juts out from the Antarctic coast. This year’s mission was one of the more challenging in the last two decades, according to the agency, due to unfavorable weather conditions that made the ice pier at McMurdo unusable for dry cargo operations. In lieu of the ice pier, the Green Wave carried a disassembled modular causeway system from the U.S. Army. Once the ship safely was anchored at McMurdo Station, 41 Army personnel spent three days assembling the interlocking pieces of the causeway and powered modular warping tugs, which were craned off the ship individually and built into a floating dock capable of handling the vessel’s load. After the causeway was ready, approximately 60 Navy personnel worked around-the-clock for eight days to off-load the Green Wave’s cargo, then load the ship with 391 pieces of cargo for transportation off the continent, including ice core samples carried back to the United States in sub-zero freezer containers. The ship also took on trash and recyclable materials for disposal. Cargo operations ended Feb. 24, and the Green Wave was slated to arrive back at Port Hueneme late last month. Horizon Lines Releases Green Initiative Report SIU-contracted Horizon Lines in early March issued a report presenting the company’s progress in pursuing environmental excellence through its ongoing “Green Initiatives.” The report describes the carrier’s efforts to mitigate environmental impact from shipping operations and intermodal transport. “Ensuring sustained environmental protection has always been a mission at Horizon Lines,” said Stephen H. Fraser, the company’s president and chief executive officer. “Our approach emphasizes environmental excellence through conservation techniques, waste stream management, system upgrades and voluntary compliance.” The report, available at www.horizonlines. com, outlines a number of initiatives the company has been pursuing. In a news release announcing the report’s availability, Horizon said that in the marine environ- 4 Seafarers LOG 10950_LOG_X.indd 4 ment area, “these initiatives include vessel management controls, low sulfur diesel fuel usage, and marine terminal pollution mitigation planning. The company has focused on reducing transportation emissions through improvements in vessel fuel consumption and truck efficiency, the use of alternative fuels and the development of more fuel-efficient transportation solutions. Additionally, the company is pursuing a long-term, sustainable approach to logistics management that should benefit all stakeholders. Examples include working to reduce empty backhaul miles through logistics network optimization and researching the feasibility of using containers built from recycled materials.” Andrew Phillips, Horizon’s newly appointed environmental compliance director, added, “Environmental stewardship is a fundamental tenet at Horizon Lines. In 2011, our company received recognition from the Chamber of Shipping of America for environmental excellence and we also were named a Top 75 Green supply chain partner by Inbound Logistics magazine. We remain ever vigilant and committed to continuous improvement when it comes to environmental stewardship and compliance.” Under Horizon Lines’ Green Initiative, specific areas of focus include training; recycling and waste reduction; fuel conservation; cargo hold water pumping; a ballast water management program; and a joint venture with the U.S. Department of Energy. Additionally, according to Horizon, “Improved technology oily water separators (OWS) were installed several years ago on a number of the company’s vessels as a pre-treatment system to the ship’s existing OWS. This upgrade is not required by any country, international organization or regulatory body. The dual processing approach allows for improved management of oily water discharge through more efficient processing of problematic waste streams such as oil-water emulsions, resulting in an effluent oil content of significantly less than the allowable 15 ppm. The dual approach incorporates a pretreatment step before the contents of the bilge holding tank are processed through the existing OWS system and pumped overboard. Horizon Lines installed the improved technology OWS to further reduce the possibility of inadvertent discharge of oil into the sea.” The cooperative effort with the Energy Department (dubbed MAGIC) aims “to investigate clouds and their properties by deploying radars and other instrumentation aboard the Horizon Spirit sailing between Los Angeles and Honolulu from October 2012 through September 2013.” April 2012 3/26/2012 6:54:16 PM �Federation Endorses President Obama The AFL-CIO Executive Council, on which SIU President Michael Sacco sits, has announced its backing of President Obama and Vice President Joe Biden for a second term. Citing President Obama’s commitment to working families, executive council members on March 13 during their semiannual meeting in Orlando, Fla., unanimously voted to endorse the president for his run at a second term in office. AFL-CIO President Richard Trumka said Obama has placed his faith in America’s working men and women to lead our country to economic recovery while Republican presidential candidates have pledged their loyalty to Wall Street and the 1 percent. Trumka, announcing the federation’s support for the 2012 Obama/Biden reelection ticket, issued the following statement which is being published in its entirety: “As president, Barack Obama has placed his faith in America’s working men and women to lead our country to economic recovery and to our full potential as a nation. With our endorsement today, we affirm our faith in him—and pledge to work with him through the election and his second term to restore fairness, security and shared prosperity. “The coming election is about values. President Obama honors the values of hard work, of mutual respect, and of solving problems together—not every person for himself or herself. He believes that together we will get through the most challenging economic crisis in memory and restore opportunity for all. Each of the Republican presidential candidates, on the other hand, has pledged to uphold the special privileges of Wall Street and the 1percent – privileges that have produced historic economic inequality and drowned out the voices of working people in America. “President Obama took America from the brink of a second Great Depression by pressing Congress to pass the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, which saved or created 3.6 million jobs. He championed comprehensive health insurance reform, which – while far from perfect – set the nation on a path toward health security that had eluded our country for nearly 100 years. He insisted upon Wall Street reform—passed over the objection of almost every Republican—that is now beginning to reverse decades of financial deregulation that put our entire economy at risk. “Although the labor movement has sometimes differed with the president and often pushed his administration to do more and do it faster, we have never doubted his commitment to working families. He has worked hard to create good jobs; he has made the revival of the manufacturing sector a hallmark of his jobs agenda; he has moved aggressively to protect workers’ rights, pay and health and safety on the job; he has worked for a fair resolution of the housing crisis and he put his confidence and administration unequivocally behind the workers and companies in the American auto industry—a move that saved hundreds of thousands of jobs and is helping to revive the economy now and for the future. “President Obama has earned the support of working people for a second term and today the AFL-CIO voted proudly and enthusiastically to endorse him for a second term. “The labor movement is the original social network—a working class social network—and this year the unions of the AFL-CIO will be mobilizing working people to come together to organize our neighborhoods door to door, powered by cutting-edge technology and old-fashioned energy. “We will be running an independent program rooted not in parties or candidates but in helping working people build power, making informed decisions about which candidates at every level to work for based on records and issues.” The AFL-CIO is the umbrella federation for U.S. unions. It is comprised of 57 unions representing more than 12 million working men and women. The federation functions to ensure that all people who work receive the rewards of their work— decent paychecks and benefits, safe jobs, respect and fair treatment. The alliance operates to make the voices of working people heard in the White House, on Capitol Hill, in state capitals across the country and in corporate boardrooms. The federation provides an independent voice for working families and ways for working people to be actively engaged in politics and legislation. It holds corporations accountable for their treatment of employees and ensures the voice of working people is heard in the financial system. The coalition also works with federations of unions in other countries to achieve global social and economic fairness. STCW Amendments Include New Minimum for Rest Hours SIU officials and representatives at the union-affiliated Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md., are making a concerted effort to help ensure that Seafarers are prepared for the ongoing application of the Manila amendments to the STCW convention. The 2010 amendments to the convention (known popularly as the Manila amendments) will be phased in during the next five years, with the process having begun in January 2012. The more immediate effects on the day-to-day lives of SIU members include an increase in mandatory minimum rest hours in any seven-day period, and documentation of security-related training. The new standard for rest is 77 hours, while the old one was 70 hours. Because the final rule covering these issues hasn’t been published, the Coast Guard isn’t yet enforcing the provisions. However, the agency strongly urges compliance by U.S.-flag ships, particularly when overseas. A Coast Guard notice released earlier this year further points out that the Manila amendments changed “the rest hours requirements as follows: (1) Expanded the application for hours of work and rest periods for mariners to include all personnel with designated safety, prevention of pollution, and security duties onboard any vessel; (2) changed the weekly rest hours requirements from 70 hours to 77 hours; and (3) required the recording of hours of rest…. Vessels operating in foreign ports are encouraged to implement these requirements to avoid any potential port state control detentions. Hours of rest for each crew member can be documented in the vessel logbook.” In part, the section of the notice covering security training requirements reads as follows: “The STCW Convention requires that mariners who commenced service after 1 January 2012 meet the training requirements for vessel personnel with designated security duties and security awareness, as appropriate. In addition, the STCW Convention also provides transitional provisions for mariners who started service prior to 1 January 2012. Recognizing that the implementation date is fast approaching, and that there may be practical difficulties for all seafarers with security related requirements to obtain necessary certifications and/or the necessary endorsements required in accordance with regulation VI/6 of the 2010 Manila Amendments, the IMO issued Circular STCW.7/Circ.17. The Circular provides advice for port state control officers on transitional arrangements leading up to full implementation of the 2010 Manila Amendments on 1 January 2017. The Circular also recommends that Administrations inform their port state control authorities that, until 1 January 2014, it would be sufficient to accept compliance with section 13 of the International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code, even if a seafarer’s documentation with regard to the security-related training in regulation VI/6 is not in accordance with the 2010 Manila Amendments….” In addition to added rest and security training, other noteworthy changes include mandatory training in a variety of capacities including Tanker, Bridge and Engine-room Resource Management, and Electronic Chart Display and Information System (ECDIS). While these training standards are currently optional, they will become mandatory in 2014. Failure to prepare for the implementation of the Manila amendments can result in the inability to get needed sea time. April 2012 10950_LOG_X.indd 5 Brian Schoeneman (right), the union’s legislative director, testifies at the recent House hearing on cruise ship safety. SIU Asserts Vital Importance of Training Union Testifies at House Hearing Spurred by Costa Concordia Disaster The SIU was called upon to testify at a Congressional hearing on cruise ship safety Feb. 29. The hearing, dubbed “A Review of Cruise Ship Safety and Lessons Learned from the Costa Concordia Accident,” was called in response to the deadly accident involving the Costa Concordia passenger vessel off the coast of Italy earlier this year. Due to the severity of the accident, and the widespread media attention that accompanied it, Chairman John Mica (R-Fla.) of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee and Chairman Frank LoBiondo (R-N.J.) of the House Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation Subcommittee both called for the hearing to address safety concerns within the industry. SIU Legislative Director Brian Schoeneman testified that one of the top priorities for the union and its members has been safety training. In fact, according to Schoeneman’s testimony, the SIU leadership has long been preaching that having a well-trained and qualified crew is one of the most important steps a ship operator can take in an effort to ensure safe travels. “This is why the SIU places so much emphasis on training,” said Schoeneman. “Since our founding in 1938, we have had been providing mariner training as a key part of the benefit of being a union member.” Schoeneman also pointed out that with access to unionaffiliated training facilities such as the Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md., and at Barbers Point, Hawaii, Seafarers are some of the best equipped to deal with unforeseen emergencies when at sea. “The SIU has established a state-of-the-art training program to ensure that both our mariners and our other cruise ship personnel receive the best, most up-to-date and in-depth training available anywhere,” said Schoeneman. “We’ve invested a considerable amount of time and money into training, so when our members go up the gangway they know what to do if the unthinkable happens.” Another significant issue that was raised by the SIU is flag-of-convenience vessels and the unfortunate amount of market share they have in the cruise industry. While the Costa Concordia was not an FOC ship, a majority of those in the Caribbean and Hawaiian cruise industries are. SIU officials are quick to point out that crews on FOC vessels often don’t have the stringent safety training that American, union mariners have. Others testifying included Coast Guard Vice Admiral Brian Salerno, the president of a cruise-line trade association, a mariner whose work has included serving as captain of the SIU-crewed Pride of America, two of the passengers from the Costa Concordia, and an executive from Princess Cruises. The consensus of those testifying before the subcommittee is that safety in the cruise ship sector must be a top priority. “Experience has long since proven that training and practice saves lives, especially in situations where every second counts,” Schoeneman concluded. “It is important to remember that the best way to protect passengers and respond to an emergency is to ensure that crew members are well-trained and professional and that passengers and crew alike know what to do in an emergency. Training saves lives. It is that simple.” Seafarers LOG 5 3/26/2012 6:54:17 PM �Like Sons, Like Father Seafaring careers often run in families, but for Jim Ross and his sons, Zachary and Grayson, the proverbial torch wasn’t handed down. Instead, Jim followed his sons’ path from California through the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education and into the union. The three of them sail in the engine department, and all say they are quite pleased with their careers. Jim, who turns 55 this month, already knew the benefits of union representation from prior work as a meat cutter long before he arrived at the Paul Hall Center’s Piney Point, Md., campus in January 2010. He knew the pitfalls of non-union work, too, and lost his managerial job when the recession started. “I was very interested in getting back into a union,” Jim said. “Non-union is a cut in pay and cut in lifestyle.” He was working in landscaping in early 2009 – a time when Grayson and Zach were studying as members of Paul Hall Center Unlicensed Apprentice Class 719. “They both told me I should get started with the school and the SIU,” Jim recalled. He went to Piney Point within a year and quickly knew he’d made a good decision. “Shipboard life agrees perfectly with me,” he said. “I love it. You work 12 hours a day on the ship, but what else are you going to do out there? And when you’re off, you’re home all the time or you can travel. We travel more now than when I worked on shore.” He added, “It’s kind of interesting that the kids got into it before the old man. Seafaring Life Proves Great Fit for Ross Family Usually it’s a family thing handed down, but it has worked out great. I’m extremely grateful both to the union and the school.” ‘A Lot of Fun’ For Zach, 29, the lousy economy led him out of the construction business and into the maritime industry. He and Grayson, both of whom recently upgraded to junior engineer, met a former SIU member and then a current official (Assistant Vice President Chet Wheeler) who explained the basics. “It seemed like a great opportunity,” Zach stated. “So far, I love the union. It has really taken care of me and I love all the perks. It’s been a lot of fun.” He said that despite some initial surprise at Jim’s entry into the unlicensed apprentice program, “for him it makes sense. He saw us enjoying it and he had been a union member before. He lives to travel. By no means did we talk him into it.” Zach also said that even when they’re on the beach, shop talk “is pretty much the majority of our conversation. It’s nice to have somebody in the family you can vent to or ask questions.” Finally, he recommended upgrading at the Paul Hall Center and its Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship. He said that upgrading improves job security and earning power. (Jim was taking the basic auxiliary plant operations course at the same time the brothers were in the junior engineer class.) ‘Right Choice’ Grayson, 25, remembered doing asphalt work several years ago “and then the From left, Jim, Grayson and Zachary Ross successfully switched from other fields to the maritime industry. economy died, pretty much.” After checking out the union’s website, he and his brother went to the SIU hall in Oakland, Calif., “and the rest is history. We were sold; we started getting our documents ready and headed out [to the school] five or six months later.” Grayson said that while his lineage includes some affiliation with the sea – family members have served in the Navy – he and Zach and Jim are the first ones to make a living in the merchant sector. “I like it,” he said. “Working on a ship is like helping make a small city run. It’s nice being part of something that big, and I enjoy building stuff. We’re all pretty mechanical. It seems like the right choice.” Like Zach, Grayson said he was at least slightly surprised at Jim’s entry into the apprentice program – not because it wasn’t a good potential fit, but rather because it was such a big change. “He was a butcher all my life, but I think he was tired of it,” Grayson said. “It wasn’t going anywhere and of course the money is a lot better out here…. It’s pretty cool. We’ve never lived anywhere near the coast, but we’re all sailing now.” Guard Unit Trains at Union-Affiliated School The SIU’s affiliated training center in Hawaii recently provided classroom and handson instruction for members of the Hawaii Army National Guard (HIARNG) Fire Unit. The sessions took place Feb. 18-19. Two photos from the training are shown here. VP Contracts George Tricker (front, left) is pictured with other Polar Plunge participants and a Special Olympics athlete. Union VP ‘Takes the Dive’ For a Very Special Cause SIU Vice President Contracts George Tricker braved the bone-chilling Atlantic Ocean off Seaside Heights, N.J., to raise money for the New Jersey Special Olympics. The annual event, dubbed The Polar Bear Plunge for Special Olympics-New Jersey, brought nearly 5,000 people to the shore for a good cause. The plunge, which took place Feb. 25, generated more than $1 million for the Special Olympics, according to event organizers. Participants are required to raise at least $100 apiece for the organization in order to participate in the plunge. Tricker was joined by other officials and rank-and-file members from various unions for the plunge. In addition to members of the organized labor community (among them, police officers, fire fighters and teachers), participants included people from all walks 6 Seafarers LOG 10950_LOG.indd 6 of life and all parts of the country. According to Tricker, it was an experience he won’t soon forget. “This was the first year that I’ve been able to do this and I’m really glad I got the opportunity,” he said. “I’m honored to have been able to do my part and help out the Special Olympics, which is a truly great event.” According to the website for the Polar Bear Plunge, the “Special Olympics New Jersey provides year-round sports training and Olympic-type competition in 24 sports for more than 22,000 children and adults with intellectual disabilities, all completely free of charge.” For any Seafarers interested in participating in next year’s event, registration can be completed at http://www.sonj.org/LawEnforcement/NjPolarPlunge/. April 2012 3/23/2012 10:22:19 AM �BOOK PRESENTATION AT HQ – In early April, SIU VP Contracts George Tricker (right) administered the union oath and presented an A-seniority book to QMED James Oling (left) at the union’s headquarters building, located in Camp Springs, Md. When he’s not sailing, Oling works as a substitute teacher. PAYOFF IN NEW YORK – SIU Asst. VP Nick Celona (right) and Patrolman Mark von Siegel (left) paid off the APL ship President Truman on March 13 in Staten Island, N.Y. Pictured with the officials are (from left, starting second from left) Chief Steward Benjamin Sivells, Chief Cook Julio Lobo and ACU Jaime Cayonte. At Sea and Ashore With the SIU ABOARD ALLIANCE CHARLESTON – AB David Denizac (left in photo above) and Joselito Beof are shown in early March painting and installing a non-skid safety walkway on the bridge deck of Maersk’s Alliance Charleston. Thanks to Bosun Terry Cowans and Chief Mate Ryan Arnold for their efforts to submit the photo to the LOG. SHIPBOARD MEETINGS OVERSEAS – SIU VP West Coast Nick Marrone and Guam Port Agent John Hoskins earlier this year met with Seafarers aboard several ships in Diego Garcia and Saipan. In the photo above, Marrone (center) is pictured with AB Francis Miller (left) and Bosun John Wells aboard the USNS Seay. In the photo below, Hoskins (center) stands with SA Marcelo Rase (left) and Storekeeper Eurico Liboon aboard the USNS Pomeroy. The Seay is operated by AMSEA, while the Pomeroy is operated by Ocean Shipholdings. REWARDED FOR SAFETY – Electrician James Beatty (photo at right) recently won a cash award as part of Maersk Line, Limited’s ongoing program promoting shipboard and shore-side safety. According to a recap by the chief mate aboard the Baldomero Lopez, Beatty discovered that an incorrect-sized wire had been used on a lube oil heater and the protective covering was starting to deteriorate, which could have caused an injury or accident. Beatty “took it upon himself to open and inspect all of the other … heads to ensure they were correctly wired. Job well done on discovering the problem and having the initiative to take it the next step and make sure there would not be any future issues,” wrote Chief Mate David Schumacker. VISION IN CALIFORNIA – In late February, Patrolman Nick Marrone II (right in photo at left), with member Lou Cabano) met with Seafarers aboard the Crowley ATB Vision in Martinez, Calif. They discussed upcoming contract negotiations, the importance of contributing to SPAD, and other union and maritime industry news. Among those on hand for the gathering were Captain George Sadler, 1st Mate Charlie Carlson, 2nd Mate David Gilles, 3rd Mate Lou Cabano, Chief Engineer John Ashley, Asst. Engineer Piotr Kwiatkowski, QMED Edward Schlueter, AB/Tankerman Bruce Murphy, AB/ Tankerman Kenric Henry, AB/Utility Caesar Smith and OS/Cook Bradley Palmer. April 2012 10950_LOG.indd 7 Seafarers LOG 7 3/23/2012 10:22:25 AM �8 Seafarers LOG 10950_LOG.indd 8 April 2012 3/23/2012 10:22:28 AM �2012 AFL-CIO Maritime Trades Department Executive Board Meeting AFL-CIO President Cites ‘Critical Juncture’ for U.S. Trumka: Solidarity a Must for Working Families Throughout Nation Solidarity—the willingness and commitment of union members to stand together shoulder to shoulder and fight to achieve a better life for working families—is the foundation on which the labor movement rests. This point was exemplified repeatedly by AFL-CIO President Richard Trumka March 9 during his address to the Maritime Trades Department, AFL-CIO executive board’s annual meeting near Orlando, Fla. The federation president was one of 12 distinguished speakers to address the body during the two-day gathering. “The time has come again for us all to stand together, and to show America the true meaning of solidarity,” Trumka said, “because we will not win what we need without strong coalitions—not only of our union members, but also of working people of allied organizations and industries.” Having grown up in a small mining town in southwestern Pennsylvania, Trumka told those present that he learned early in life about the importance of solidarity and the necessity of its unbroken practice for working people. “My entire family would come together every Sunday at my grandmother’s house,” he said. “The adults would be sitting and talking about what was going on, and about 95 percent of them were mine workers, the other five percent were teachers. “They talked unions and I learned about unions from the time that I can remember,” he continued. “At those sessions, we learned the meaning of solidarity. We learned how to stand together for safety on the job. We learned what it meant to stand together for a fair share, for good benefits and for a dignified retirement.” Thanks to this background, said the federation president, no one had to tell him or members of his family what to do when it was time for them to stand together in the struggle to make things better for working families. “No one had to teach us on the line,” he said “When you saw a picket line, you honored it first, you asked questions later…. What mattered is working people were struggling and that picket line was sacred. And every picket line out there became your own picket line. That was solidarity. What to do when you saw it was ingrained in all of us.” Along those same lines, Trumka told members of his audience that each of them had an important role to play, a critical contribution to make toward ensuring the survival of a strong trade union movement and the continued presence of the American flag on the waterways and high seas. “Brothers and sisters, today we really have to gather ourselves together again and raise our voices for all aspects of the maritime trades—from ships and docks to railways and highways,” he said. “Right now, our country is at a very, very critical juncture and we stand at that critical juncture in American life.” The federation president pointed out that as a nation, we have some vital choices to make and questions to answer regarding our future: “Will we continue to build ships in America at places like Avondale? Will we embrace the future of green energy by supporting the construction of wind farms, like those proposed off the Mid-Atlantic coast? Will we build deep-water harbors to accommodate the rise in traffic from expansion of the Panama Canal Zone, and the necessary rail and trucking infrastructure, so that America’s marine-highway system can handle the freight coming off those jumbo ships?” he asked. Trumka then advised board members and others in the crowd to avoid the temptation of treating the foregoing questions as isolated issues or assuming “that they are someone else’s problem rather than mine.” That’s precisely what anti-union factions want us to do, he said. April 2012 10950_LOG_X.indd 9 “They want these to be isolated questions, but they are not because the answers won’t affect just a handful of workers or a small number of companies,” Trumka said. “The answers will spell the future of America, just as the outcome of political fights for collective bargaining rights for public employees in Wisconsin and Ohio, and for the right to form strong unions in Indiana. All will impact the prosperity of America for generations to come.” Emphasizing the importance of unity, Trumka noted that the labor movement can’t win if individuals affected by a single issue act alone. “We can’t act in isolation, or we’ll surely be beaten one at a time,” he said. “We need all of us working together.” This approach is what made the difference in Wisconsin and Ohio, where public employees and private employees worked together and won key political fights, he pointed out. Turning his attention to the issue of jobs, Trumka noted that the country needs to invest in infrastructure. The East Coast needs mega-ports, America needs clean wind energy, and all across America—from the Great Lakes to the Mississippi River waterways, the Gulf Coast, the West Coast, Puerto Rico, Alaska and Hawaii—we need investments in infrastructure, he said. “When the public invests in jobs … it benefits everybody, every last American out there,” Trumka said. “We’ll get mariners, longshoremen, shipbuilders, painters, machinists, ironworkers, boilermakers, operating engineers, laborers, miners and teamsters and a thousand other occupations back on the job when we do that because it’s pretty simple: America prospers when America works.” Recalling the 2010 elections, Trumka talked about how right-wing politicians duped the American public by reneging on their campaign promises to create jobs. “They got elected, and what happened on day one? On day one, they forgot about jobs,” he said. Politicians like Wisconsin Governor Scott Walker, Ohio Governor John Kasich MTD President Michael Sacco (right), and MTD VP Scott Winter (left) joined AFL-CIO President Richard Trumka for this photo shotrly after Trumka addressed the MTD Executive Board. percent of Hispanic women because they don’t have a voter ID. Trumka continued, “Remember what else they did? They closed down the place where you get the IDs on Saturday so that you had to take a day off of work during the week to go and get one. It wasn’t an accident, it was an assault on democracy, and it’s an assault on us as well.” Trumka expects more of the same during the 2012 election cycle. “They spent almost $2 billion in the last election cycle and they’ll spend between $5 billion and $6 billion this time,” he said. “Money will be no object; they will be coming right at us.” The attacks on collective bargaining and the right to vote have the same purpose, Trumka noted. “The goal is one thing and one thing only—and that’s to tilt the playing field against us, to defeat us, to keep us in our place, to stop the workers from getting “Brothers and sisters, today we really have to gather ourselves together again and raise our voices for all aspects of the maritime trades—from ships and docks to railways and highways. Right now, our country is at a very, very critical juncture and we stand at that critical juncture in American life.” - - - AFL-CIO President Richard Trumka and hundreds of others like them in Washington and the state legislatures around the country dropped jobs from their agenda and attacked collective bargaining rights, Trumka said. They also attacked democracy with so-called voter ID laws and with other new laws meant to restrict the ability of working people to vote. According to Trumka, the impetus for the voter ID measures is a group known as ALEC, the American Legislative Education Council. They brought 2,000 legislators together and established as their goal a 10 percent reduction in the progressive vote in 2012. “So they came after our collective bargaining rights, they came after immigrants, they came after seniors, they came after students, they came after people of color, they came after public employees and they came after private employees, trying to suppress that vote,” Trumka said. The resulting laws, if unchallenged, will have devastating effects for certain categories of voters, said the federation president. In the state of Wisconsin alone, it disenfranchises 52 percent of senior women because they don’t have an ID and they can’t get out to obtain one; it disenfranchises 78 percent of African-American males between the ages of 18 and 24 because they don’t have a driver’s license; and it disenfranchises 56 uppity and actually start to demand something, like health care and wage increases and retirement security.” Trumka said labor knows the antidote for anti-worker politicians: solidarity. “We stood together in Wisconsin and Ohio, and we delivered stunning defeats to those who targeted working people,” he said. “We know more tests are coming, and we’re getting ready for them.” That’s why the AFL-CIO is launching a political program that reaches all levels, the federation president said. “Seven days a week, 12 months a year, it’s not going to break down after the elections, are over.” Quite to the contrary, it’s going to continue to build and bring more people in, Trumka said. “It’s going to last and we’re building power for working people—not power for politicians—an independent voice that won’t vanish after Election Day. “It will stay there and it will grow, and it will organize and it will bring more people in,” he said. “And our new program will be able to transition from electoral politics to advocacy and from advocacy to accountability. We’ll stay strong so we can win the legislation we need to rebuild the America that we can have and that we must have.” Trumka told the MTD attendees that the country needs leaders who will campaign for jobs, and then after they get elected, stand and fight and create those jobs, not give us lip service. “We need leaders who will run a campaign for those jobs and create them,” he said. “And I’ve got to tell you that the Maritime Trades, you are a powerful voice for working people, a mighty voice. But as mighty as you are, and as mighty as our labor movement is, we cannot take on this battle alone.” The federation leader said that when we stand together with those organizations, progressive groups and individuals who share our values, the numbers are on our side. No matter how much money they have, he said, we can produce votes that nullify that money. “When we remind America that work connects us all, we can build a culture of mutual support and solidarity. Quite frankly, if all working people united, we can’t be turned around.” Commenting on the upcoming 2012 General Election, Trumka said that he was sure that some of us are going to look back to 2008 when labor helped elect President Obama. “It seemed like our time had finally come,” he said. “I remember that and I was so excited. I said man we got the House, we got the Senate … good times are going to roll.” But the “good times” have been few and far between, Trumka suggested. Based on a record numbers of filibusters in the U.S. Senate and a flood of cash that’s been let loose by the Citizens United decision, Trumka said that the right-wing has put up a much more viscous fight than anyone anticipated. Further, he said, President Obama has had fewer people confirmed in his cabinet than any president before him. “They won’t even give him the people that he needs to make the government run,” Trumka said. “You know why? They don’t want government to run. They don’t want him to be able to create jobs; they don’t want him to be able to solve problems. That doesn’t fit their agenda.” After noting that the right wing’s number one goal is not fixing the economy, not creating jobs, not bringing retirement security to Americans, not fixing education, and not fixing our infrastructure, but instead to take Barack Obama out of office, Trumka said that he still expected more from the president. “Sometimes the right-wing blocked President Obama from making more progress, and quite honestly sometimes Obama and our friends in the Senate could have fought a whole lot harder and negotiated a whole lot better.” Continued on Page 14 Seafarers LOG 9 3/26/2012 6:54:19 PM �2012 AFL-CIO Maritime Trades Department Executive Board Meeting ‘Best of America’s Labor Movement’ Labor Secretary, Congressmen Credit MTD Unions for Vital Roles A cabinet member and two U.S. Representatives were among speakers to address those who attended the Maritime Trades Department, AFL-CIO executive board (MTD) meeting last month near Orlando, Fla. Secretary of Labor Hilda Solis, U.S. Representative Cedric Richmond (D-La.) and U.S. Representative Michael Grimm (R-N.Y.) each delivered speeches to the body March 9. Solis’ message came via a DVD specifically prepared for the MTD while Congressmen Richmond and Grimm made personal appearances. Solis thanked American merchant mariners, shipbuilders, longshoremen and their affiliated unions for their respective roles in making the nation’s maritime industry strong and vibrant. Noting the strong leadership provided to the MTD by President Michael Sacco and Vice President Scott Winter, Solis said, “The members you represent are fortunate to have you at the helm. Your advocacy is making an enormous difference for the middle class workers who labor in our ports and build and supply our flag vessels.” The Labor Secretary then told attendees that she was incredibly proud of the contributions the merchant mariners have made to our commerce, our national defense and vital humanitarian missions around the world. “Whether bringing supplies to Haiti to alleviate suffering after the earthquake, or delivering grains to foreign ports to alleviate famine, or serving as our fourth arm of defense in times of emergency,” she said, “you represent the best of America’s labor movement. Focusing on the economy, Solis said that the MTD’s meeting was being held at a critical time. She conceded that the recession had taken a tremendous toll on the maritime industry, but expressed optimism for a better future. “We have now created nearly 3.7 million jobs over the last 24 months,” she said. “Our recovery is growing stronger and you played a critical role in educating Congress about the millions of jobs generated by American ports.” She then pledged the administration’s continued support of the maritime industry, noting that if this country is going to export products rather than jobs, then we need to make major infrastructure investments in our ports. These investments will enable us to keep pace with our rapid trade growth, she said. “President Obama understands this,” Solis told the board members. “Even in these difficult partisan times, we will continue to make the case on Capitol Hill and to the American people that these investments are in our vital national interest. And as we make that case, we will continue to stand up against the attacks on the rights of organized labor.” In closing, the Labor Secretary noted that our opponents are waging attacks on working people at the worst possible time in states all across the country. “They say that given the state of the economy, we can’t afford unions right now,” Solis said. “I say they got it backwards…. That’s why I continue to speak out against those who want to use the financial crisis as an excuse to take this country backwards by attacking collective bargaining rights. That’s that wrong way to go…. President Obama understands that labor unions are not the cause of America’s problems, they are part of the solution.” Congressman Richmond A strong advocate for the U.S. maritime industry, Richmond talked about the importance of solidarity and organizing in the labor movement. To set the tone for his presentation, he told the board members about the role he and others have been playing in the ongo- 10 Seafarers LOG 10950_LOG_X.indd 10 The Honorable Hilda Solis U.S. Secretary of Labor The Honorable Cedric Richmond U.S. Representative (D) Louisiana ing battle to keep New Orleans’ Avondale Shipyard open. In the middle of the night, Richmond said, company executives decided to shut the facility down because they did not deem it efficient. The congressman said that he didn’t think it was fair for them to kick 11,000 New Orleans metro area residents out of work. He later learned that the company stood to gain some $310 million by closing the facility. This to him was insane: a company being given $310 million for quitting on the American people. “I can see giving $310 million to a company if they are expanding, or if they are opening,” he said. “But to give $310 million to somebody who is going to quit on the American people…. It just seemed like foolishness.” Armed with this information, Richmond said he launched an all-out campaign to save Avondale. His crusade, strongly backed by organized labor, continues today; and although he has not realized his ultimate goal of saving Avondale, he said he believes that he, his supporters, and the Avondale workers eventually will prevail. The congressman pointed out that while he was captivated by the masses of Avondale workers who turned out during their rallies to save the shipyard, he was more awestruck by the turnout of supporters – by “all of the brothers and sisters from labor from all over the country who came down to support them. That really means a lot,” he said. “You find out who your friends are when you are in a time of need. And I can tell you as a survivor of Katrina, you really find out who your friends are when you’re down.” With that as a framework, Richmond shared his views on the importance of the maritime industry. “The future of the maritime industry in this country is important to the future of this country,” he said. Richmond said that Americans make up only five percent of the consumers in this world, so the remaining 95 percent of them are outside of our country. “This means that we need not only an information superhighway, but we also need to make sure that we invest in our maritime superhighway which is the trade superhighway for this country,” he stated. “So, just as we talk about laying fiber-optic cable, we should be talking about dredging our rivers and our ports. Just as you talk about investing in the infrastructure of the country to make sure we can hardwire things, we have to talk about the infrastructure in our maritime industry.” The congressman then stated while he was sure each member of the audience was on the same page when it came to the maritime industry, that wasn’t enough. It’s more important that everyone continue to stand together and let their feelings be known through a united voice, he noted. “Whether we’re talking about the Jones Act, cargo preference or the Maritime Security Program, we should keep saying it again and again,” he said. “I support them all.” “Muhammad Ali used to always say I’m the greatest, I’m the greatest, I’m the greatest everywhere he went,” the congressman continued. “One day, a reporter asked him why do you keep saying that? His response was if I say it long enough, people will start to believe it.” One of the problems developing in this country is that we have allowed people to say labor is a bad thing, Richmond pointed out. “They said it over and over again to the point that people are starting to believe it. We can’t afford to let people say it over and over again without them getting checked. We have to say it’s all lies and garbage.” On the issue of the 99 percent versus the one percent, Congressman Richmond emphasized that Americans are not in the business of penalizing people for being successful. “That’s not what we do,” he stated. “But as my grandmother once told me, to whom much is given, much is required.” This means that during these tough economic times, “rich people need to do a little more,” he said. “We’re not saying that you have to give more for the rest of your life, but for the next couple of years while we’re in this crunch, we’re going to need just a little bit more. And for people who don’t have that, we’re asking for their time. We need you to mentor kids, to coach little league, to give what you can give.” Richmond told the board that his passion for labor was ingrained in him as a child. Having picketed with his mother, who served as a strike captain for a teachers union in New Orleans, he said he learned a great deal about organized labor deal from her. “My mother was from one of the poorest places in the country, she had 15 brothers and sisters,” he said. “But she was proud to be in the union, she was proud to stand with others to fight for what she believed in. And my brother and I started to believe in it, too. As we grew up and watched her fight when things were not right … we formed that same pride. And that’s the pride that it’s going to take to get this country back on the right track.” Congressman Richmond closed by saying he is a product of all of their hard work and sacrifice. “It was the labor movement that joined to make sure that I could go to some of the best schools and do anything I wanted to do” he said. “And it was certainly your help that got me elected to the United States Congress.” The Honorable Michael Grimm U.S. Representative (R) New York Congressman Michael Grimm Republican Congressman Grimm told the board that despite the popular perception that Congress is broken and dysfunctional, a lot of across-the-aisle bipartisanship exists. “A good example of that is taking place here today because not only do I stand here in support of and behind every one of you, not only with the labor movement, not only with the maritime industry, but also with my colleague Congressman Richmond from across the aisle,” Grimm said. “So when you get past the sound bites and rhetoric and nonsense, you’re going to find out just how much alike we really are.” A veteran of the U.S. Marine Corps who also served as an FBI Special Agent, Grimm also hails from a labor background. And, like his Democratic colleague, he developed a deep appreciation for labor and its pioneering values early in life. “No one knew this when I was running for office, but I grew up in a union household,” the congressman shared. “My dad, who could barely read and write, swung a hammer and basically broke his back all day working two or three jobs because he promised himself that his two children would have a chance to have an education that he did not have. He was a proud member of Local 8 Roofers and Water Proofers Union. And he taught me from a very early age that it was about a fair day’s work for a fair day’s wage. This was ingrained in me from day one and that made me grow up with a very profound respect for the people who work hard, the very people who built this country.” Congressman Grimm said he was fortunate to have grown up New York because of its historic connection with organized labor. “When you look around New York, you have to marvel at the architecture, the roads and bridges, tunnels and infrastructure that was built by the hard working hands of labor,” he said. “It really makes me so proud and I don’t hesitate to admit that I bleed red, white and blue. You can’t find anyone that’s more proud of this country and that why I stand here today – because we need to get back to get back to our basics.” Addressing the issue of jobs, the congressman said that virtually everyone—especially elected politicians—has an idea about how to create jobs. “That’s all you hear from them when you stick a microphone in front of them,” Grimm said. “But the answer is right here in front of our nose: We need to get back to the basics.” To clarify his point, Congressman Continued on Page 14 April 2012 3/26/2012 6:54:22 PM �2012 AFL-CIO Maritime Trades Department Executive Board Meeting SIU VP Government Services Kermett Mangram (right) and Asst. VP Chet Wheeler (left) are pictured with MSC Commander Rear Adm. Mark Buzby following the admiral’s address to the executive board. Rear Adm. Wendi Carpenter President, SUNY Maritime MSC Commander, NOAA Admiral Cite Crucial Work of U.S. Merchant Mariners SUNY Maritime President Echoes Need for Good Jobs, Partnerships The commander of the U.S. Military Sealift Command (MSC) and the director of the National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) Marine and Aviation Operations Centers recently praised the work of U.S. Merchant Mariners and their respective unions at the Maritime Trade Department, AFL-CIO meeting on March 8 near Orlando, Fla. MSC Commander Rear Adm. Mark Buzby and NOAA Rear Adm. Michael Devany described the key roles played by mariners when it comes to protecting America’s national and economic security. They also talked about the ongoing need for industry partnerships and the importance of creating and maintaining good jobs – themes echoed at the MTD meeting by Rear Adm. Wendi Carpenter (USN), president of the Maritime College of the State University of New York. Buzby gave a brief history of MSC and its missions throughout the years. He cited the “trust that has been established” between the agency and maritime labor, and said it was a privilege to address the MTD executive board. “It is important to me to be here,” Buzby stated. “I can’t execute the MSC mission without you. National security and national defense rely on you.” The admiral pointed out that agency and union leaders regularly meet to address various issues affecting both organizations, including mariners. He specifically pointed to the ongoing Civilian Marine Personnel Instructions (CMPI) 610 negotiations, and expressed optimism about final changes being implemented in the very near future. Regular communications between labor and the agency also help address issues “before they become problems,” Buzby added. “All of this goes toward maintaining a strong U.S. maritime industry that is crucial to our continued leadership in a world that depends on the seas and the maritime trade.” Buzby described MSC as a “growth industry” and said that “when it comes to new ships and missions, the pace seems to be picking up.” Among other examples, he cited the launch of the joint high-speed vessel USNS Spearhead, slated for delivery this summer. That vessel is one of 10 scheduled to be built; the first four will be crewed by civilservice mariners, while the other six will be run by private American-flag operators. April 2012 10950_LOG_X.indd 11 The commander further noted that NASSCO is assembling modules for the first two mobile landing platforms and soon will launch the final ship in the 14-vessel T-AKE fleet, the USNS Cesar Chavez. Finally, Buzby said that MTD-affiliated unions including the SIU “have been helping us as we take advantage of your expertise and training. We will continue to use your schools for some of our training. Of course, we take advantage of your seamanship, and your shipbuilding skills, and all the rest. “We’ve been charting the same course as we move America forward, and I fully expect that to continue, so I’m looking forward to moving ahead together. So thanks for your continued help and partnership – in peace and war.” Devany described NOAA’s missions and how mariners’ work supports the U.S. economy. Those tasks include weather forecasting, severe storms warnings, fisheries management, marine charting, coastal restoration and protection. “All of these support maritime commerce and the U.S. economy, and our fleet is dispersed across the nation,” he pointed out. “There’s a vital national security role as well as a commercial role.” Devany acknowledged the budgetary battles that are affecting NOAA’s fleet, but added, “We also have some opportunities to move ahead,” including a scheduled addition of a new ship that will be based in San Diego. He also said it is “imperative” that NOAA work with maritime unions to help recruit “the mariners of the future.” Speaking of those efforts and others, he said they “all require partnerships. The future of what NOAA does, the future of the people who sail on our ships, is built on partnerships not only with the folks that provide training, but also with the maritime unions…. I look forward to a continued positive relationship with all of you.” Echoing not only the dominant theme of MTD President Michael Sacco’s opening remarks but also a key point in virtually every other address given at the meeting, Carpenter said, “I also believe it’s all about jobs, and it’s about how we innovate for the future.” She said her parents grew up during the Great Depression, which enhanced her appreciation for the need for good jobs. “I understand firsthand your com- mitment to jobs, to good jobs, and how that fits into the maritime industry.” Carpenter discussed maritime training and also how various regulations affect such training, including cost. “We must be united together in turning back some of these regulations that are stifling our economy, and stifling the jobs, and stifling our opportunities to move forward competitively in such a global industry,” she asserted. She also touched on a recent visit to the SIUaffiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, calling it “a fine facility” and adding, “I believe that there are ways that we can move forward together” when it comes to innovative training. Finally, she emphasized the importance of partnerships in the industry and how they will benefit everyone. MTD President Michael Sacco (right), Rear Adm. Michael Devany Seafarers LOG 11 3/26/2012 6:54:24 PM �2012 AFL-CIO Maritime Trades Department Executive Board Meeting Robert Scardelletti President TCU Bruce Smith President GMP James Williams President Painters Mark Spano President Novelty Workers Tom Bethel President AMO Mike Jewell President MEBA Michel Desjardins President SIU of Canada Roman Gralewicz President Emeritus SIU of Canada Richard Hughes President Emeritus ILA Gunnar Lundeberg President SUP Anthony Poplawski President MFOW Brian Bryant Chief of Staff to VP Machinists Lynn Tucker, General VP Machinists Joseph Condo International VP TCU Desiree Gralewicz Secretary-Treasurer SIU of Canada Daniel W. Duncan Exec. Secretary-Treasurer MTD Scott Winter Vice President MTD Bernard Hostein Asst. to President Steelworkers MTD Snapshot Formed in 1946, the Maritime Trades Department is a constitutionally mandated department of the AFL-CIO. The MTD’s 23 affiliates include the SIU, and altogether those unions represent approximately 5 million members. The MTD also features 21 port maritime councils. SIU President Michael Sacco also serves as MTD president, a post to which he most recently was re-elected in 2009. The articles and images on pages 9-14 reflect some of the happenings at this year’s MTD executive board meeting, which took place March 8-9 near Orlando, Fla. Check out the MTD’s new website (www.maritimetrades.org) for additional information about the department. Warren Fairley International VP Boilermakers Jerry Abell Secretary-Treasurer South Florida Maritime Trades Council Joseph Soresi VP Atlantic Coast SIU 12 Seafarers LOG 10950_LOG_X.indd 12 Richard Lanigan Vice President OPEIU Larry Holbert Director, Rail & Shipyards Sheet Metal Workers Nick Marrone VP West Coast SIU Brian Schoeneman Legislative Director SIU Don Nolan Vice President Paul Hall Center Tom Orzechowski VP Great Lakes SIU Tim Buxton Cleveland Port Maritime Council Tom Orzechowski III, son of SIU VP Great Lakes Tom Orzechowski, leads the Pledge of Allegiance as President Michael Sacco looks on. April 2012 3/26/2012 6:54:37 PM �2012 AFL-CIO Maritime Trades Department Executive Board Meeting Speakers Offer Different Perspectives, Same Focus: Jobs Whether it involves port modernization or harnessing new sources of energy, job creation is at the forefront of planned and needed maritime projects, noted three guest speakers at last month’s Maritime Trades Department, AFL-CIO executive board meeting. Robert Mitchell, CEO of Atlantic Wind Connection, told the board on March 9 that developing offshore wind energy on the East Coast will generate good jobs and tens of billions of dollars in economic activity. A day earlier, both Barry Holliday, executive director of the Dredging Contractors of America, and Paul Anderson, CEO of the Jacksonville Port Authority, said that the United States can’t waste any more time improving the nation’s ports, or it will continue to cost the country jobs and other assets. They both pointed to the surplus in the Harbor Maintenance Trust Fund and said the money should be used for its explicit mandate of paying for dredging. Mitchell described Atlantic Wind’s 10year plan “to build more than 350 miles of sub-sea transmission cable that will become like the interstate highway for electricity along the East Coast.” He pointed out that between Washington, D.C. and New York City “we have the most congested transmission corridor in the United States, and that means that, just like on a highway that’s congested, everything slows down and it costs extra money for people to sit in traffic. The analogy for electricity is that the demand is there, and you’ve got to push it through, but the power that does get through now becomes extremely expensive.” He estimated that from New Jersey to Chicago, energy rate-payers fork over anywhere from $2 billion to $4 billion extra in congestion cost “because we don’t have enough transmission. When we build this line, it will relieve a great deal of that congestion.” Mitchell said Atlantic Wind has the administration’s support and is going through the process of securing permits. Their goal is “to have this operational by 2017-2018.” He added that while the expected creation of 34,000 jobs associated with the project may not seem like a large number, the related economic activity is expected to surpass $100 billion. Finally, Mitchell stated that he doesn’t view the project as one that competes with Paul Anderson, CEO Jacksonville Port Authority Barry Holliday, Exec. Director Dredging Contractors of America Robert Mitchell, CEO Atlantic Wind Connection other energy sources. “America is going to need as much energy as we can produce,” he said. “How many times will we have an opportunity to produce an entirely new industry for this country? Right now, offshore wind is welldeveloped in Europe. There are factories there that are producing the turbines and the towers and blades and so on. But it’s expensive to move all of that over here. There’s no reason at all why we can’t put American workers to work, producing quality machines that are going to be great not only for our environment but for our economy.” Holliday described the Harbor Maintenance Trust (HMT) Fund and explained a four-year effort to improve U.S. ports spearheaded by a large coalition called Realize America’s Maritime Promise. “It’s all about jobs, and this is no exception,” he said. “It’s been our mantra all through this in talking with Congress…. Our focus right now is to try to get the HMT legislation introduced into the transportation bills on both the House and the Senate side, and as many of you know, that’s been a real challenge…. I have my fingers and toes crossed that we’ll have some recognition and acknowledgement that this is important to our nation and our jobs.” The Harbor Maintenance Trust Fund provides money for the United States Army Corps of Engineers to dredge federally maintained harbors to their authorized depths and widths. That money comes from the Harbor Maintenance Tax, under which certain users of U.S. coastal and Great Lakes harbors pay a tariff of $1.25 per $1,000 in cargo value passing through these waters. The tax applies to imported and domestic waterborne cargo, as well as the ticket value of cruise ship passengers. The tax was intended to provide a sufficient, stable, long-term source of funding to pay for harbor dredging. In recent years, Fund expenditures have remained flat while collections have increased with rising imports, creating a large surplus. The Fund’s uncommitted balance continues to grow and reached an estimated $6.1 billion at the beginning of fiscal year 2012. Yet, many U.S. harbors are under-maintained because the federal government has been using the trust fund to off-set increasing deficits, rather than spending the funds on what they were intended – harbor maintenance and dredging. Those points where echoed by Anderson, who said that larger ships are here already, and U.S. ports must grow to accommodate them. “To handle these ships, we’re having to sail these in at high tide,” he explained. “The ships have to wait to come in to ports along the East Coast of the United States because the channels are not deep enough.” Anderson said that all of Florida’s 14 ports have lost jobs “because those ships are not able to call at our ports 24/7…. Our country is woefully behind in our investment in port infrastructure.” He mentioned that as recently as 10 years ago, Los Angeles/Long Beach was ranked as the world’s third container port. Today it is ranked tenth, and the six overseas ports that moved ahead of it didn’t exist a decade ago. Anderson said he believes political red tape is a big part of the problem. “This is a critical, critical factor in our country’s ability to maintain competitiveness over the next decade,” he declared. “We have to change the process and the system and the funding for our nation’s gateway infrastructure…. We need faster improvement of our ports, full use of the Harbor Maintenance Trust Fund … and if we don’t get on the stick, our country is going to face serious problems in the next decade with the ability to handle bigger ships.” Progress in Piracy Fight, but Much Work Remains Jon Whitlow ITF Seafarers’ Section Secretary Joseph Angelo Intertanko Managing Director April 2012 10950_LOG_X.indd 13 High-ranking officials from the International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF) and the influential global tanker association Intertanko told the Maritime Trades Department, AFL-CIO executive board that progress is happening in the battle against piracy, but it’s still a significant problem. ITF Seafarers’ Section Secretary Jon Whitlow talked to the board on March 9, while Intertanko Managing Director Joseph Angelo (a former U.S. Coast Guard official) addressed the MTD a day earlier. Both men asserted that mariner wellbeing should be the first consideration in the piracy fight. Whitlow pointed out that since 2008, more than 800 vessels have been attacked by pirates; last year alone, some 113 vessels were fired upon. During that same period, and sometimes inexplicably omitted from mainstream reporting, Whitlow noted, “More than 60 seafarers have died – killed by pirates in crossfire or deliberately, by suicide in despair, killed in naval action to counter piracy, or died through illness, usually [because of] poor water, poor nutrition.” He said that the “failure to confront piracy off of Somalia has led to it becoming a growing problem elsewhere, (including) off West Africa and the Gulf of Guinea.” Whitlow declared the challenges in combatting piracy include lack of effort by some of the major flag states; attempts to outlaw ransom payments; an overall reduction of naval assets; and not enough prosecution of pirates, sometimes labeled “catch and release.” However, he also stated that real progress has been made, as reflected by reliable figures which demonstrate far fewer successful attempted attacks. Positive developments include growing political will, the use of armed security guards, improved shipboard practices, “more robust naval action,” and follow-up care for mariners after they return home from a piracy incident. A less-obvious but much-needed step, Whitlow continued, is stopping the pirates before they ever leave shore. The ITF “is on record with 60 governments calling for the need to attack the pirate logistic bases on land.” Finally, he talked about the Save Our Seafarers (SOS) campaign, launched one year ago by organizations representing every component of the maritime industry, including the ITF and Intertanko. In order to achieve the campaign’s goals, the industry first had to get the attention of the people whom Whitlow described as “the decisionmakers.” With that in mind, he stated, “The biggest achievement in our eyes is that we’ve secured mainstream press coverage. Previ- ously we’d been confined to the maritime press…. We have managed to secure widespread and regular coverage in Reuters, five articles in Time magazine, a special edition of The Economist, coverage by the BBC, CNN, Daily Telegraph, Financial Times, Wall Street Journal to name but a few. So we’ve moved into the main press.” However, he concluded, “We’ve got a long way to go, and we need to put an end to the scourge of piracy once and for all.” Much of Angelo’s presentation also focused on piracy, but he first pointed out that Intertanko is a non-profit association of independent owners and operators of oil and chemical tankers (oil companies are not members). Collectively, the 230 or so members account for about 80 percent of the world’s tanker fleet. He described why his organization is deeply concerned about its market – worries that perhaps were best illustrated by the grim fact that current tanker market rates are consistently below shipowners’ operating costs. Nevertheless, he said that piracy, especially off the coast of Somalia, is the international shipping industry’s main concern. And, like Whitlow, he stated that the plight of mariners should top that list. Continued on Page 14 Seafarers LOG 13 3/26/2012 6:54:41 PM �2012 AFL-CIO Maritime Trades Department Executive Board Meeting Federation President Says It’s Time For Labor To Lead Continued from Page 9 Despite the administration’s real or perceived shortcomings, Trumka urged his audience to remain resolute in labor’s quest to level the playing field for working families in this country. “We know progress never comes easy, and that’s why our job is to never stop demanding more—demanding from this president, demanding more from the senate and the state houses and the state legislators and from any other leader that’s out there. “We cannot allow the blowback from the right-wing to make us lose track of the very real progress we have made since 2008 when we were losing 700,000 jobs per month. Seven hundred thousand of our brothers and sisters were becoming unemployed every month,” he said. With the help of organized labor, Trumka said that the job hemorrhaging has stopped. “President Obama has created more jobs, almost 3 million in a recession, than George Bush did in eight years of good times,” Trumka said. “He enacted a health care reform that’s going to make a life-and-death, dollars-and-cents difference for working people. “He passed strong and significant Wall Street reform and he bypassed the effort to keep the consumer financial protection bureau from doing its job,” he continued. “And, President Obama also bypassed right-wing obstructionism to keep the National Labor Relations Board working to protect workers.” Trumka told those present that as they recalled the frustrations of the past Three Voice Praise for Labor Movement Continued from Page 10 Grimm said the ports in New York City and a few other ports around the country started commerce in the Unites States. “That’s where it all began, so we don’t need a Harvard professor or some other Ivy League expert consultant to tell me how to create jobs,” he said. “Our forefathers and ancestors invested in our ports when they came here; they invested in our infrastructure, they invested in our maritime industry.” During the next 15 years, the expectation is that international trade will double. This, he said, sounds like an excellent opportunity to create jobs and is the chief reason why he has been pushing for improving our ports— getting ready for the mega ships that will be coming into Staten Island and elsewhere. “Why don’t we continue to create jobs in the areas that we know already work?” he asked the board. “I’m talking about goodpaying, honorable and distinguished jobs where people go to work with dignity, work hard and are able to feed their families. “That’s really what it’s all about,” he continued. “I believe that the American dream is to have the opportunity to give the next generation more and that’s why I have been an ardent and fervent supporter of maritime, because I really do think that it’s a part of the greatness of this country…. That’s where American exceptionalism got its start.” Speaking specifically about the maritime industry, Congressman Grimm voiced his support. “I’ve been there with all of you from day one,” he said. “Whether it was the MSP, or the Jones Act, or the need to get monies so that we could continue to dredge, I was in your corner. I would still like to know why we don’t use 100 percent of the money from our ports for our ports; to dredge and make other improvements,” he continued. “In my view, it’s foolish and constitutes a fight that we need to have. We need to bring that to the forefront.” Congressman Grimm said he has been talking to many of his congressional colleagues about these issues. He also told the board that it was not always an easy task as a Republican to stand up with labor, but nonetheless pledged his unwavering support. Recalling a recent union-related vote on the House floor in which he cast the deciding ballot in favor of labor, he said, “After the vote, some of my friends from labor came up to me and said we were holding our breaths. I’m here today to let each and every single one of you know … that you don’t have to hold your breath with me. I’m there for and with you and I’m going to be there. And I’m going to be there, not because I need your vote … but because I believe in you and that’s how I was raised.” ‘100 Percent Union’ four years, they should remember one truth about politics: Sometimes elected leaders lead, sometimes we walk side by side and sometimes “it’s on us to push them forward and get behind them and kick them in the backside to keep them moving forward as we push them ahead. That’s our job and we can’t forget about that. “Now is the time for us to lead, to show them where to go and how to create jobs. “It’s time for us to do our part for the American Dream, so that working people can earn a fair wage and some good benefits and can look forward to a secure retirement,” he continued. “So that every worker can have the right to bargain collectively for a better life. So that the infrastructure in this country that’s falling down around us gets rebuilt. It’s time for us to lead.” In closing, Trumka said that if we want a better America then we are going to have to work for it. “We are going to have to stand for it together,” he said. “Each and every one of us, you and me, all of us standing together to bring out the best in America, to bring out the best in ourselves, and each other. Because, when we are united, we are the 99 percent. We are moving America forward. And I promise you that if we stay united—not lip service solidarity, but real solidarity where your fight is absolutely my fight and my fight is your fight—no one will ever be able to turn us around. “We will rebuild the middle class and we will rebuild and take back America for every last worker that’s out there,” he concluded. Union Captain Helps Promote Industry The first guest speaker to address the board was Capt. Andrew McGovern (above), a member of the MM&P and the president of the United New Jersey Sandy Hook Pilots. McGovern introduced the stirring video “Boatlift,” a 12-minute piece that shows how mariners responded to the 9/11 tragedy in New York. (Look it up on YouTube.) McGovern said he agreed to be interviewed for the video “because I think it’s important that we try to show the resiliency of the marine transportation system and what the seafarer can do in times of trouble.” He said that the industry’s biggest problem “is that nobody knows what we do,” and he hopes “Boatlift” will generate well-deserved positive exposure and, in turn, help produce more jobs. The evacuation from Manhattan on September 11, 2001 was the largest water evacuation in history (nearly 500,000 civilians moved by boat), and greatly was aided by SIU members aboard NY Waterway ferries. McGovern added that 9/11 itself was just the start of the story for the local maritime industry, whose members spent four days transporting rescue workers and performing other tasks as needed while area roads, bridges and tunnels were closed. Piracy Remains Troubling Issue Continued from Page 13 Michael Stotz (above), president and managing director of the AFL-CIO Investment Trust Corporation (ITC), spoke at the MTD meeting on March 9. The ITC works with the labor movement and the pension community to raise capital for labor-related investment projects. Funds served by the ITC have more than 170 pension plan investors and more than $2.5 billion in total assets. “Our returns are very, very competitive, and I’m really proud of that,” Stotz said. “We think that not only are we creating jobs, but we’re doing it very strategically to keep the returns quite competitive…. We build union and we service union 100 percent.” He said that in simplest terms, the ITC’s mission is “let’s get workers’ money to work for workers.” 14 Seafarers LOG 10950_LOG.indd 14 Angelo recalled doing a BBC interview last year about a tanker that had been captured en route to Houston. The vessel was carrying $200 million worth of cargo. “My response was, the number one concern of Intertanko and the entire shipping industry is the 35 seafarers on the ship who are being detained,” he said. “Not only that, but the 700 seafarers who were being held (in Somalia) as hostages. The response I got from the reporter was, ‘Oh, we didn’t know that, that’s very interesting. But let’s talk about the $200 million cargo.’ ” He added that Intertanko deserves credit for initiating the SOS campaign, which is expanding its outreach and currently has 30 industry organizations on board. The campaign’s goals include boosting government will to eradicate piracy in part by increasing general public awareness; stopping the use of mother ships; increasing prosecution of pirates; adding naval assets in the region; and taking action ashore in Somalia to address piracy’s root causes. Overall, Angelo (who led numerous U.S. delegations to the International Maritime Organization while working for the Coast Guard) said that Intertanko’s main goals all involve mariner welfare and safety: no fatalities, no pollution, no ship detentions. He stated that while some outsiders are surprised to learn that seafarers are such a big part of Intertanko’s focus, the organization is proud of its priorities and will continue working on issues including piracy, shore access, accommodation spaces, fatigue and more. April 2012 3/23/2012 10:22:53 AM �Personals Dispatchers’ Report for Deep Sea Harold Viser Jr. wants to get in contact with Wilfred Maurice. The two mariners sailed together during the early 1990s. Viser’s phone number is (713) 775-7072. Frank Jenkins would like to get in contact with Robert Beecks. Jenkins’ phone number is (347) 325-6844. May & June Membership Meetings Piney Point....................................Monday: May 7, June 4 Algonac..........................................Friday: May 11, June 8 Baltimore...................................Thursday: May 10, June 7 Guam.......................................Thursday: May 24, June 21 Honolulu......................................Friday: May 18, June 15 Houston......................................Monday: May 14, June 11 Jacksonville...............................Thursday: May 10, June 7 Joliet........................................Thursday: May 17, June 14 February 16, 2012 - March 15, 2012 Port Total Registered All Groups A B C Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS 14 1 5 18 2 10 39 30 6 16 16 35 16 24 7 1 9 40 4 33 326 7 0 7 16 2 7 12 25 7 9 3 19 15 8 7 0 5 14 3 22 188 2 0 1 0 0 2 3 3 0 0 0 3 1 1 0 0 1 2 0 2 21 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS 1 0 6 4 1 11 12 18 2 8 3 12 8 14 2 2 3 15 2 8 132 7 1 8 5 0 4 11 16 2 5 1 6 15 8 2 5 7 12 1 10 126 4 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 1 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 7 New York......................................Tuesday: May 8, June 5 Norfolk......................................Thursday: May 10, June 7 Oakland....................................Thursday: May 17, June 14 Philadelphia..............................Wednesday: May 9, June 6 Port Everglades........................Thursday: May 17, June 14 San Juan.....................................Thursday: May 10, June 7 St. Louis.......................................Friday: May 18, June 15 Tacoma.........................................Friday: May 25, June 22 Wilmington....................................Monday: May 21, June 18 Each port’s meeting starts at 10:30 a.m. Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS 3 0 1 13 2 7 15 16 1 3 8 16 3 11 4 3 2 16 1 20 145 Attention: Seafarers Another New Ship! Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS SPAD Works For You! Contribute to the Seafarers Political Activities Donation SPAD GRAND TOTALS: April 2012 10950_LOG.indd 15 C Trip Reliefs Registered on Beach All Groups A B C Deck Department 35 14 0 1 2 3 8 10 3 5 5 1 28 8 28 13 12 7 12 4 9 1 38 8 10 17 19 4 6 0 1 0 10 4 32 14 2 1 25 10 285 125 4 1 0 0 1 1 0 1 0 0 0 0 1 1 0 0 0 2 0 0 12 0 0 2 3 0 0 15 10 0 1 1 13 6 8 3 0 4 13 0 11 90 12 2 9 24 7 20 94 49 2 18 24 72 24 43 11 0 14 64 7 68 564 15 3 12 23 3 10 28 59 7 6 10 35 31 18 10 0 14 26 4 47 361 1 0 1 2 0 4 15 5 2 0 1 3 7 0 0 0 2 4 0 8 55 Engine Department 10 7 0 2 3 3 5 2 2 0 4 4 10 9 11 11 7 3 5 1 1 2 10 11 9 15 2 5 2 0 1 2 1 5 14 8 2 0 5 12 104 102 3 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 6 0 0 2 0 0 1 10 8 0 0 0 5 1 2 1 0 3 7 0 3 43 3 0 5 12 5 18 22 39 1 15 9 23 15 23 5 3 4 21 1 23 247 4 1 6 10 1 5 25 40 3 4 2 15 34 17 7 7 18 20 6 22 247 3 1 0 0 0 1 2 1 0 1 0 2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 14 2 1 0 2 0 3 3 9 3 1 2 7 10 2 0 1 3 4 0 4 57 Steward Department 1 2 4 0 0 0 0 1 2 2 8 3 1 0 0 0 2 4 1 8 4 2 10 3 0 3 4 0 6 1 2 2 0 0 14 4 2 8 7 1 13 2 0 5 0 0 3 2 0 2 1 0 15 2 1 1 2 1 20 1 14 123 46 0 0 0 1 1 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 1 1 0 0 0 0 1 0 6 0 0 0 1 0 0 2 4 0 1 1 8 3 4 1 0 0 2 0 4 31 8 0 5 21 3 20 34 29 0 5 9 31 11 25 3 4 4 32 2 48 294 3 1 0 5 0 2 12 12 2 6 5 7 19 4 0 2 3 7 0 9 99 1 0 0 1 0 0 1 3 0 0 2 0 3 2 0 0 0 0 0 2 15 3 0 1 0 0 4 0 1 0 0 0 7 0 5 0 0 0 8 0 5 34 7 0 6 4 2 4 14 13 9 2 4 30 17 16 3 11 1 11 0 10 164 Entry Department 5 4 19 0 0 2 1 1 3 2 0 5 1 0 0 9 1 3 8 2 8 9 3 12 0 0 11 4 0 4 7 0 1 9 1 15 15 0 19 7 1 8 3 0 2 27 0 7 0 0 0 4 5 9 0 0 1 7 2 6 118 20 135 1 0 0 0 0 5 1 2 0 1 2 6 7 1 0 24 1 2 0 2 55 2 0 0 0 0 1 1 3 0 0 0 2 3 1 0 1 0 1 0 1 16 3 0 1 0 0 9 6 4 1 0 1 13 0 5 0 0 1 8 0 12 64 15 3 4 15 6 12 24 36 1 6 5 54 25 20 2 11 1 18 3 26 287 20 0 4 5 1 12 9 21 3 3 9 30 30 10 4 15 2 8 0 23 209 637 535 160 79 180 1,169 994 293 Mobile..................................Wednesday: May 16, June 13 New Orleans...................................Tuesday: May 15, June 12 Total Shipped All Groups A B 532 408 Seafarers LOG 15 3/23/2012 10:22:54 AM �Inquiring Seafarer Seafarers International Union Directory Michael Sacco, President Augustin Tellez, Executive Vice President David Heindel, Secretary-Treasurer George Tricker, Vice President Contracts Tom Orzechowski, Vice President Lakes and Inland Waters Dean Corgey, Vice President Gulf Coast Nicholas J. Marrone, Vice President West Coast Joseph T. Soresi, Vice President Atlantic Coast Kermett Mangram, Vice President Government Services HEADQUARTERS 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746 (301) 899-0675 ALGONAC 520 St. Clair River Dr., Algonac, MI 48001 (810) 794-4988 ANCHORAGE 721 Sesame St., #1C, Anchorage, AK 99503 (907) 561-4988 Editor’s note: This month’s question was answered by SIU members in Piney Point, Md. What do you like most about your job? Tristan Brand QMED I like working with my hands, being able to get outside and not sitting in an office. I’m coast-side now, but I really enjoyed traveling when I had the chance to work deep sea. And the pay. The pay and the vacation are both good things. the opportunity to get a lot of time off and a lot of money at once. Also, you have the opportunity to advance. The union and the school give you the opportunity to go as far as you want. That’s a great advantage to have. The opportunity of advancement is my favorite part. You have the option of not only improving your rating, but also being able to do it at your own pace. You don’t have to follow a set path – it’s really up to you how far and how fast you want to go. Not a lot of other jobs give you that kind of freedom. BALTIMORE 2315 Essex St., Baltimore, MD 21224 (410) 327-4900 GUAM P.O. Box 3328, Hagatna, Guam 96932 Cliffline Office Ctr. Bldg., Suite 103B 422 West O’Brien Dr., Hagatna, Guam 96910 (671) 477-1350 Grayson Ross Junior Engineer HONOLULU 606 Kalihi St., Honolulu, HI 96819 (808) 845-5222 HOUSTON 1221 Pierce St., Houston, TX 77002 (713) 659-5152 JACKSONVILLE 5100 Belfort Rd., Jacksonville, FL 32256 (904) 281-2622 JOLIET 10 East Clinton St., Joliet, IL 60432 (815) 723-8002 MOBILE 1640 Dauphin Island Pkwy, Mobile, AL 36605 (251) 478-0916 NEW ORLEANS 3911 Lapalco Blvd., Harvey, LA 70058 (504) 328-7545 Zach Ross Junior Engineer I like the fact that I get to work in a block schedule. Working in blocks gives you from the travel, I also get to experience on-the-job training which, to me, is the best way to learn. Anthony Thomas Oiler There’s always something interesting going on. You’re constantly learning something new. I transferred over to the engine department and I’m learning every single day. When you’re learning how to work on engines and things like that, those skills not only help you become a better mariner but are transferable to other fields as well. With the training that I get, I can work on all sorts of engines. The stuff I learn at work also helps me at home. I can fix my own car and save some money. That’s something you can’t get anywhere else. Samuel Shuebrooks Oiler I like having the opportunity to travel. I’m learning new things every day, meeting new people from different cultures. The best place I’ve been to so far is Dubai. I got to see a totally different way of living and I have the opportunity to see places that I never would’ve been able to see in a different job. Aside Pic-From-The-Past NEW YORK 635 Fourth Ave., Brooklyn, NY 11232 (718) 499-6600 Government Services Division: (718) 499-6600 NORFOLK 115 Third St., Norfolk, VA 23510 (757) 622-1892 OAKLAND 1121 7th St., Oakland, CA 94607 (510) 444-2360 PHILADELPHIA 2604 S. 4 St., Philadelphia, PA 19148 (215) 336-3818 PINEY POINT P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674 (301) 994-0010 PORT EVERGLADES 1221 S. Andrews Ave., Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33316 (954) 522-7984 SANTURCE 1057 Fernandez Juncos Ave., Stop 16 Santurce, PR 00907 (787) 721-4033 ST. LOUIS/ALTON 4581 Gravois Ave., St. Louis, MO 63116 (314) 752-6500 TACOMA 3411 South Union Ave., Tacoma, WA 98409 (253) 272-7774 WILMINGTON 510 N. Broad Ave., Wilmington, CA 90744 (310) 549-4000 In August 1948, nearly 150 members attended the first regular branch meeting at the new union hall in San Francisco, located at 85 Third Street. Conducting the meeting were (from left) West Coast Representative Steve Cardullo, Chairman Al Bernstein, Reading Clerk Roy Pierce and Recording Secretary H.A. Orlando. If anyone has a vintage union-related photograph he or she would like to share with other Seafarers LOG readers, please send it to the Seafarers LOG, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. Photographs will be returned, if so requested. High-resolution digital images may be sent to webmaster@seafarers.org 16 Seafarers LOG 10950_LOG.indd 16 April 2012 3/23/2012 10:22:59 AM �Welcome Ashore Each month, the Seafarers LOG pays tribute to the SIU members who have devoted their working lives to sailing aboard U.S.-flag vessels on the deep seas, inland waterways or Great Lakes. Listed below are brief biographical sketches of those members who recently retired from the union. The brothers and sisters of the SIU thank those members for a job well done and wish them happiness and good health in the days ahead. DEEP SEA IVAN AGUILAR Brother Ivan Aguilar, 65, donned the SIU colors in 1988. His first voyage was aboard the President Taylor; his last was on the Eugene A. Obregon. Brother Aguilar was born in Nicaragua and sailed in the deck department. He settled in Metairie, La. JOHN CADE Brother John Cade, 65, signed on with the union in 1965. He was a frequent upgrader at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Cade’s earliest trip was on a Transeastern Shipping vessel. His final ship was the Overseas Chicago. Brother Cade, who sailed in the engine department, lives in Mobile, Ala. GERALDINE CARTER Sister Geraldine Carter, 65, started sailing with the union in 1980 in San Francisco. A member of the deck department, she upgraded on three occasions at the Piney Point school. Sister Carter initially worked on the Santa Adela. Her most recent trip was aboard the Oakland. Sister Carter calls San Francisco home. JOSEPH COMEAUX Brother Joseph Comeaux, 62, joined the SIU in 2001 as the NMU merged into the Seafarers International Union. In 2001 and 2002, Brother Comeaux attended classes at the SIU-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. The deck department member’s last trip was on the Horizon Spirit. Brother Comeaux resides in Riverside, Calif. RICHARD GARCEA Brother Richard Garcea, 71, was born in Spokane, Wash. He became an SIU member in 1971 while in Seattle. Brother Garcea often took advantage of educational opportunities at the Paul Hall Center. He sailed as a member of April 2012 10950_LOG.indd 17 school in Piney Point, Md. The deck department member makes his home in Shelton, Wash. the steward department. Brother Garcea’s final voyage was aboard the Express. He continues to make his home in Washington. JOHN GLENN Brother John Glenn, 65, began sailing with the union in 1967. He first worked with Columbia Steamship Company. Brother Glenn sailed in the deck department, most recently on the North Star. He attended classes on numerous occasions at the maritime training center in Piney Point, Md. Brother Glenn is a resident of Enumclaw, Wash. ODELL MURRAY Brother Odell Murray, 71, became an SIU member in 2001 during the SIU/NMU merger. On two occasions he took advantage of educational opportunities available at the Piney Point school. Brother Murray’s final voyage was on the Resolve. He sailed in the engine department and lives in Houston. WILLIAM GOELTZ RICHARD NICHOLAS Brother William Goeltz, 62, signed on with the union in 1973. He originally sailed on the Buck Monitor. Brother Goeltz was born in Ashland, Wis., and worked in the deck department. In 2007, he enhanced his skills at the Piney Point school. Brother Goeltz last shipped aboard the Presque Isle. He lives in Wisconsin. Brother Richard Nicholas, 62, began his SIU career in 1990. He initially shipped aboard the Francis Hammer. Brother Nicholas enhanced his seafaring abilities often at the Paul Hall Center. He sailed in the deck department. Brother Nicholas most recently worked on the Dodge Island. He lives in Bay Minette, Ala. JOHN HENRY MICHAEL ORTON Brother John Henry, 65, started sailing with the SIU 2001 as the NMU was merging into the SIU. He mainly worked aboard vessels operated by Alaska Tanker Company such as the Tonsina and the Prince William Sound. Brother Henry, who sailed in the engine department, calls Keizer, Ore., home. Brother Michael Orton, 66, joined the union in 2002 while in the MARCOS HILL Brother Marcos Hill, 63, donned the SIU colors in 1968. His earliest trip was with Penn Tanker Company. Brother Hill often attended classes at the Paul Hall Center. His most recent trip was aboard the Horizon Falcon. Brother Hill sailed in the engine department and resides in New Orleans. CHARLES JAMES Brother Charles James, 66, joined the Seafarers in 1991 while in Seattle. His first ship was the Sealift Arctic; his last was the Midnight Sun. Brother James upgraded in 1997 at the union-affiliated port of San Francisco. In 2006, the deck department member went to the maritime training center in Piney Point, Md. Brother Orton’s final trip to sea was aboard the Lawrence Gianella. He calls Jacksonville, Fla., home. CARMA PETERSEN Sister Carma Petersen, 67, started shipping with the Seafarers in 1998. She originally worked on the USNS Silas Bent. Sister Petersen was a steward department member. She upgraded in 2002 at the Piney Point school. Sister Peterson’s last trip was aboard the USNS Pathfinder. She resides in Roanoke, Va. MICHAEL WEBER Brother Michael Weber, 62, donned the SIU colors in 2001 as the NMU merged into the Seafarers International Union. He primarily sailed with Marine Personnel & Provisioning on vessels such as the Yorktown Express and the Washington Express. Brother Weber attended classes in 1999 at the SIU-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. The deck department member is a resident of Cornell, Mich. INLAND MICHAEL DOUTHITT Brother Michael Douthitt, 64, became a Seafarer in 1983 while in the port of New Orleans. His earliest trip was with Dravo Basic Materials Company. Brother Douthitt sailed in the deck department and last worked with Martin Marietta. He lives in Sontag, Miss. BENJAMIN GUILLOT Brother Benjamin Guillot, 64, joined the SIU ranks in 1992 in New Orleans. He initially worked with Energy Ammonia Transportation Corporation. The Louisiana native sailed in the deck department. Brother Guillot upgraded his skills in 2000 and 2004 at the Paul Hall Center. His final trip was on a vessel operated by Crowley Towing and Transportation of Wilmington. Brother Guillot makes his home in Slidell, La. This Month In SIU History Editor’s note: The following items are reprinted from previous editions of the Seafarers LOG. 1950 With a complete tie-up of all U.S. shipping by the powerful AFL Maritime Trades Department hanging over their heads, East and Gulf coast ship operators quickly altered their union-busting stand and negotiated an agreement with the AFL Masters, Mates and Pilots. The pact was signed on April 21, just 36 hours before the strike deadline set by the licensed officers’ union. The settlement ended nine months of stalling by the operators. At the request of federal mediators, the old contract had been extended four times since it expired on September 30. Member unions of the MTD intervened in the dispute when they were satisfied that the shipowners were intent on destroying the MM&P, one of the AFL waterfront group’s affiliates. 1960 Hitting back at Egypt President Nasser’s blacklisting of American-flag ships, the SIU and the International Longshoremen’s Association have tied up the Egyptian-flag SS Cleopatra in New York harbor. A joint SIU-ILA picket line demonstration protesting the blacklist has idled the Egyptian vessel since Wednesday morning, April 13, when the ship arrived in New York. Efforts by the owners of the vessel (which, incidentally, includes the Egyptian government) to obtain court orders against the picket line were rebuffed in two federal courts. 1970 “No industry is more dependent on world trade than the merchant marine,” AFL-CIO SecretaryTreasurer Lane Kirkland told a conference on the crisis in international trade. But he warned: “When American exports are being shipped on foreignflag vessels, American jobs are being exported. When U.S.-made goods are exported, if it’s on a foreign bottom, a service – shipping – is being imported.” He spoke at an AFL-CIO Industrial Union Department conference, “Developing Crisis in International Trade.” 1980 Wherever she goes on the Great Lakes, American Steamship’s brand-new bulk carrier will serve as a floating ambassador, paying tribute to all hardworking U.S. seamen. Because the name painted on her 730-foot hull is MV American Mariner. At christening ceremonies held April 15 at Bay Shipbuilding’s Sturgeon Bay, Wisc., yard, the SIUcontracted vessel was dedicated “to the generation of seamen – past and present – who have kept the Lakes as the primary transportation link in North America’s heartland.” Ably wielding the inaugural bottle of champagne over American Steamship’s tenth new vessel in seven years was Valerie Nemirow, wife of Maritime Administration head Samuel B. Nemirow, who gave the keynote speech of the day. Seafarers LOG 17 3/23/2012 10:23:02 AM �Final Departures DEEP SEA WILLIAM BARNES Pensioner William Barnes, 89, passed away Nov. 18. Brother Barnes was born in Alabama. The steward department member began receiving his retirement compensation in 1970. Brother Barnes called Irvington, Ala., home. WILLIAM DILLON Pensioner William Dillon, 82, died Oct. 25. Brother Dillon became a union member in 1960 while in the port of New York. He was originally employed aboard the Cantigny. The engine department member was born in Massachusetts. Brother Dillon last sailed on the Challenger. In 1995, he retired and settled in Jacksonville, Fla. FREDDIE GRIFFIN Pensioner Freddie Griffin, 71, passed away Oct. 27. Brother Griffin began sailing with the SIU in 1984. His earliest trip to sea was aboard the Portland. Brother Griffin was a native of Onward, Miss. Prior to his retirement in 2002, he sailed on the Westward Venture. Brother Griffin, a member of the deck department, made his home in Renton, Wash. RONALD HACKENSMITH Brother Ronald Hackensmith, 61, died Nov. 21. He started sailing with the union in 1996. Brother Hackensmith, who sailed in the engine department, was first employed aboard the Presque Isle. He was born in Evansville, Wis. Brother Hackensmith’s last voyage was on the St. Marys Challenger. He was a resident of Gordon, Wis. ALI MOHAMED Brother Ali Mohamed, 59, passed away Oct. 27. He signed on with the SIU in 1990. Brother Mohamed, a member of the steward department, initially shipped on the Independence. He was a Yemen native. Brother Mohamed last sailed aboard the Cape Jacob. He lived in Dearborn, Mich. 18 Seafarers LOG 10950_LOG.indd 18 STEVEN MYRICK GILBERT DIGGS Brother Steven Myrick, 54, died Oct. 31. He first donned the SIU colors in 2008. Brother Myrick’s earliest trip was aboard the Integrity. The steward department member most recently shipped on the Freedom. Brother Myrick called Baltimore home. Brother Gilbert Diggs, 52, passed away Nov. 17. He was born in Newport News, Va. Brother Diggs started his SIU career in 1999. He worked primarily with Allied Transportation Company. Brother Diggs sailed in both the engine and steward departments. He lived in Haynesville, Va. EDWARD O’BRIEN Pensioner Edward O’Brien, 85, passed away Nov. 13. Brother O’Brien began shipping with the union in 1967. He was a New York native and worked in the deck department. Brother O’Brien first sailed aboard the Eagle Traveler. His final trip was on the Liberator. Brother O’Brien went on pension in 1998 and resided in Pomona, Calif. GRADY STEWART Pensioner Grady Stewart, 83, died Nov.14. Brother Stewart became a Seafarer in 1962. He initially sailed with Seatrade Corporation. The Floridaborn mariner was a member of the deck department. Brother Stewart’s final trip was aboard the Overseas New Orleans. He started collecting his pension in 1995 and made his home in Jay, Fla. TELE TOGIAI Brother Tele Togiai, 61, passed away Nov. 22. He joined the union in 1979. Brother Togiai originally shipped on the Pioneer. He worked in the engine department. Brother Togiai last worked as a crane maintenance electrician on the West Coast. He was a resident of Fort Mohave, Az. INLAND ANTHONY CHIPERAS Brother Anthony Chiperas, 67, died Nov. 26. He began sailing with the SIU in 2004 while in the port of Norfolk, Va. Brother Chiperas mainly sailed aboard Allied Towing vessels. The steward department member made his home in Norfolk. JOSEPH MAZUREK Pensioner Joseph Mazurek, 82, died Dec. 6. Brother Mazurek first donned the SIU colors in 1962. He spent most of his career aboard Moran Towing of Maryland vessels. Brother Mazurek became a pensioner in 1987 and resided in his native state of Maryland. ALFRED SMITH Pensioner Alfred Smith, 74, passed away Nov. 17. Brother Smith signed on with the SIU in 1962. He was a deck department member. Brother Smith initially worked with Merritt Chapman & Scott. He was a Connecticut native. Brother Smith was last employed with Turecamo Maritime. He retired in 1997 and called New Jersey home. GREAT LAKES PETER NAGOWSKI Brother Peter Nagowski, 55, died Oct. 26. He was born in New York. Brother Nagowski became a union member in 1976. His earliest trip was on the Frank Denton. Brother Nagowski, who sailed in the deck department most recently worked aboard the Indiana Harbor. He was a resident of Williamsville, N.Y. GLENN WEIST Pensioner Glenn Weist, 88, passed away Nov. 13. Brother Weist joined the union in 1957 while in Fort Lauderdale, Fla. He originally worked with T.J McCarthy Steamship. The deck department member was born in Pennsylvania. Before retiring in 1988, Brother Weist shipped on the St. John. He made his home in Bedford, Pa. Editor’s note: The following brothers, all former members of the National Maritime Union (NMU), have passed away. FRANK BALLOU Pensioner Frank Ballou, 86, died Oct. 30. Brother Ballou went on pension in 1974. He made his home in La Marque, Texas. DAGOBERTO BORGES Pensioner Dagoberto Borges, 93, died Nov. 11. Brother Borges was born in Cuba. He retired in 1987 and made his home in Galveston, Texas. BERTRAND DANIELS Pensioner Bertrand Daniels, 84, passed away Oct. 29. Brother Daniels was born in Jacksonville, Fla. He became a pensioner in 1991 and continued to reside in Jacksonville. JOSEPH DENNIS Pensioner Joseph Dennis, 78, died Oct. 5. Brother Dennis, a native of Alabama, started collecting his retirement compensation in 1995. He lived in Mobile. LUCIAN HARRIS Pensioner Lucian Harris, 86, passed away Oct. 4. The Texasborn mariner became a pensioner in 1990. Brother Harris called Houston home. 60, passed away Oct. 5. Brother Lankford was a Virginia native. He went on pension in 2006 and resided in Norfolk, Va. PAUL MILOBAR Pensioner Paul Milobar, 88, died Oct. 25. Born in Nebraska, Brother Milobar became a pensioner in 1965. He lived in Lincoln, Neb. RAMON ORTIZ Pensioner Ramon Ortiz, 92, passed away Oct. 30. Brother Ortiz, a native of Puerto Rico, started collecting his retirement pay in 1968. He called Brooklyn, N.Y., home. MANUEL PUIG Pensioner Manuel Puig, 86, passed away Nov. 10. Brother Puig, a native of Caguas, P.R., went on pension in 1970. He lived in Deltona, Fla. ROBERT REQUA Pensioner Robert Requa, 84, died Oct. 31. Brother Requa was born in New York. He went on pension in 2001. Brother Requa settled in Davenport, Wash. ANTONIO VARA Pensioner Antonio Vara, 79, passed away Oct. 25. Born in Spain, Brother Vara began receiving his pension in 1994. He continued to make his home in Spain. DALLAS WILLIAMSON Pensioner Nathaniel Jackson, 84, died Oct. 28. Brother Jackson was born in Virginia. He went on pension in 1995 and was a resident of Houston. Pensioner Dallas Williamson, 84, died Oct. 7. Brother Williamson was born in Plaquemine, La. He became a pensioner in 1989. Brother Williamson was a resident of Iberville, La. GERMAN KERCADU SO YUE Pensioner German Kercadu, 77, passed away Oct. 27. Brother Kercadu, a native of Fajardo, P.R., began receiving his pension in 1989. He settled in Philadelphia. Pensioner So Yue, 101, passed away Oct. 11. Brother Yue, a native of China, retired in 1966. He lived in Sunnyvale, Calif. NATHANIEL JACKSON JOHN KNIGHT Pensioner John Knight, 89, died Oct. 31. Brother Knight was born in New York. He retired in 1984 and made his home in Tuskegee, Ala. Name Bauer, John Rivera, Manuel Taylor, Luke Torres, Francisco Torres, Miguel Age 71 88 83 86 87 DOD Nov. 1 Oct. 29 Nov. 7 Oct. 29 Nov. 4 RAYMOND LANKFORD Pensioner Raymond Lankford, April 2012 3/23/2012 10:23:03 AM �Digest of Shipboard Union Meetings HORIZON ENTERPRISE (Horizon Lines), January 27 – Chairman George B. Khan, Secretary Scott A. Opsahl, Educational Director Shawn L. Clark, Engine Delegate Albert Dulig, Steward Delegate Joseph J. Gallo. Chairman asked mariners to help keep common areas clean and return movies when finished watching them. He let crew know TV series available upon request. Secretary requested members leave fresh linens for reliefs. Educational director suggested Seafarers take advantage of courses available at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. He also reminded them that they will not be able to ship if MMD/ Merchant Mariner Credential runs out before the trip ends, so keep documents up-to-date. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Members were advised to check out members-only section of the SIU website. Suggestion was made to cover periodontal maintenance, to prevent gum disease which is a gateway to other health issues such as heart disease and stroke. Crew members were reminded that there is no smoking in computer room. Thanks given to the steward department for a job well done. Honorable mention given to SA Steve Walsh and D.E.U. Zayed Ali for making crew members’ jobs a lot easier. Next ports: Tacoma, Wash., Oakland, Calif. and Honolulu. MAERSK CAROLINA (Maersk Line, Limited), January 29 – Chairman Albert Williams, Secretary Alexander Banky, Educational Director Carl D. Montoya, Deck Delegate Daniel K. Murley, Engine Delegate Albert Riollano, Steward Delegate Medardo Thomas. Bosun thanked crew for a safe 80th voyage. Secretary urged crew to read Seafarers LOG to stay up-to-date on information pertaining to the union, benefits and shipping rules. They were also encouraged to contribute to SPAD and reminded that when they do, they are helping themselves as well as their union brothers and sisters. He recognized SA Tharwat Saleh for completing his tour (200 days) without safety issues or health problems. Educational director reminded crew to get their time in and take advantage of upgrading at Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md. Treasurer stated $2,456 in ship’s fund. Suggestion made to use ship fund monies to put satellite pay phone in ship’s conference room and sell calling cards out of slop chest so all crew members can call home. Beef reported in engine department; no disputed OT. Request was made for new toaster in crew mess. Recommendations were made regarding medical, pension and vacation benefits. Next ports: Newark, N.J., Charleston, S.C. and Norfolk, Va. CHAMPION (Maersk Line, Limited), February 26, - April 2012 10950_LOG.indd 19 The Seafarers LOG attempts to print as many digests of union shipboard minutes as possible. On occasion, because of space limitations, some will be omitted. Ships’ minutes first are reviewed by the union’s contract department. Those issues requiring attention or resolution are addressed by the union upon receipt of the ships’ minutes. The minutes are then forwarded to the Seafarers LOG for publication. Remembering Brother Joseph Gutierrez In accordance with his wishes, the ashes of the late engine-department Seafarer Joseph H. Gutierrez – who passed away late last year at age 82 – were scattered at sea Jan. 23 from aboard the Seabulk Trader, while the vessel was sailing from Port Everglades, Fla., to Lake Charles, La. A few photos from the ceremony are shown here. “On behalf of the crew, it was an honor and privilege for us to perform the burial-at-sea ceremony for Mr. Gutierrez, carrying out his final wishes and serving as the final chapter in his life story,” wrote vessel master Capt. Thomas M. Liebsch. “Our deepest sympathies go out to his extended family, friends and former SIU shipmates.” Brother Gutierrez started going to sea as a teenager during World War II, and sailed for 66 years, including initial voyages with the SUP and later the NMU and SIU. He last sailed in 2009 before retiring to Hollywood, Fla. Chairman James K. Walker, Secretary Willie E. Massaline, Educational Director Dennis R. Baker, Deck Delegate Jerry P. Ray, Steward Delegate Will D. Dalton, Engine Delegate Samuel M. Addo. Chairman went over ship’s itinerary and encouraged mariners to read the president’s report in the Seafarers LOG. Secretary urged members to support our union leadership and donate to SPAD and MDL. Educational director advised everyone check expiration dates and keep documents current. He also suggested Seafarers upgrade at the SIU-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew thanked the steward department for excellent food. Members would like to increase pension amounts and lower sea time requirements. Next port: Elizabeth, N.J. COMET (Maersk Line, Limited), February 25 – Chairman Khaled G. Munassar, Secretary William E. Bragg, Educational Director Rene R. Rosario, Engine Delegate Alton Hickman, Steward Delegate Reynaldo Ricarte. Chairman thanked crew members for a smooth voyage. He asked those departing vessel to ensure rooms are clean and ready for reliefs. Mariners were reminded to make sure all necessary seafaring documents were up-to-date. Secretary noted payoff to take place in Long Beach, Calif., on February 27. Educational director urged mariners to upgrade often at the Piney Point school. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Request was made to increase food budget to reflect current food prices. Vote of thanks was given to steward department for good meals and deck dayman for always rendering assistance. Next ports: Long Beach, Calif. and Oakland, Calif. FREEDOM (ARC), February 2 – Chairman Timothy J. Fitzgerald, Secretary Frank J. Starling, Educational Director Angel Cintron. Bosun discussed ship’s schedule and announced payoff in Beaumont, Texas, on February 7. Secretary advised all mariners to attend classes at the union-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Next ports: Beaumont, Texas, Jacksonville, Fla. and Charleston, S.C. HORIZON TRADER (Horizon Lines), February 7 – Chairman George H. Saltz, Secretary Kevin M. Dougherty, Educational Director Thomas M. Flynn, Engine Delegate Igbal Mahmood. Chairman stated payoff to take place upon arrival in Elizabeth, N.J., on February 10. He expressed gratitude to the steward department for great barbecue and Super Bowl party. Educational director advised all mariners to enhance skills at the maritime training center in Piney Point, Md. Treasurer noted $1,662 in ship’s fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Suggestion made pertaining to medical benefits. Next ports: Newark, N.J. and Charleston, S.C. MAERSK MISSOURI (Maersk Line, Limited), February 26 – Chairman Oliver M. Balico, Secretary Glenn C. Bamman, Educational Director Jerome Culbreth, Deck Delegate Rolando Guity, Engine Delegate Anatoli Vetsinov, Steward Delegate Brian T. McEleney. Chairman reported a good trip with a great crew. Seafarers were urged to attend classes at the union-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Vote of thanks was given to the steward department for a job well done. Next ports: Newark, N.J., Charleston, S.C. and Norfolk, Va. MAERSK VIRGINIA (Maersk Line, Limited), February 19 – Chairman Mohamed S. Ahmed, Secretary LaShawn L. Rivera, Educational Director Michael D. Murphy, Deck Delegate Hanapiah Ismail. Chairman announced payoff on February 20 in Newark, N.J. Crew members leaving ship were reminded not to depart until properly relieved. They were also asked to leave rooms clean for arriving mariners. Secretary noted that parts for broken garbage disposal to be ordered. Motion was made to add wiper to engine department. Treasurer reported $2,000 in ship’s fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew expressed gratitude for great food by the steward department. Next port: Newark, N.J. RACER (Maersk Line, Limited), February 3 – Chairman Thomas P. Flanagan, Secretary Glenn Williams, Educational Director Paul M. Titus, Deck Delegate John Walsh, Engine Delegate Davon A. Brown. Bosun reported a safe and productive voyage. He informed crew of upcoming room inspections and warned about cold weather in New York. Secretary requested crew separate plastic from trash. Departing mariners were asked to leave clean sets of linens for arriving mariners. Educational director reminded crew to get their time in and take advantage of upgrading at Piney Point. Treasurer stated $1,500 in ship’s fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Seafarers requested new dryer for laundry room. Thanks were given to the steward department for a job well done. Seafarers LOG 19 3/23/2012 10:23:06 AM �Mariners Hone Skills in Piney Point The SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, which includes the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship, has provided instruction for mariners since 1967. Located in Piney Point, Md., the school blends hands-on training with classroom instruction both for entry-level mariners and for experienced individuals returning for upgrading classes. Since 1999, the school also has featured the Joseph Sacco Fire Fighting and Safety School, a state-of-the-art facility located on a nearby campus. A handful of recent photos from the school appear on this page. Additional information about the school, including a new application for the unlicensed apprentice program, is available in the Paul Hall Center section of www.seafarers.org Know Your Rights FINANCIAL REPORTS. The Constitution of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU makes specific provision for safeguarding the membership’s money and union finances. The constitution requires a detailed audit by certified public accountants every year, which is to be submitted to the membership by the secretarytreasurer. A yearly finance committee of rank-and-file members, elected by the membership, each year examines the finances of the union and reports fully their findings and recommendations. Members of this committee may make dissenting reports, specific recommendations and separate findings. TRUST FUNDS. All trust funds of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU are administered in accordance with the provisions of various trust fund agreements. All these agreements specify that the trustees in charge of these funds shall equally consist of union and management representatives and their alternates. All expenditures and disbursements of trust funds are made only upon approval by a majority of the trustees. All trust fund financial records are available at the headquarters of the various trust funds. SHIPPING RIGHTS. A member’s shipping rights and seniority are protected exclusively by contracts between the union and the employers. Members should get to know their shipping rights. Copies of these contracts are posted and available in all union halls. If members believe there have been violations of their shipping or seniority rights as contained in the contracts between the union and the employers, they should notify the Seafarers Appeals Board by certified mail, return receipt requested. The proper address for this is: 20 Seafarers LOG 10950_LOG.indd 20 Augustin Tellez, Chairman Seafarers Appeals Board 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 Full copies of contracts as referred to are available to members at all times, either by writing directly to the union or to the Seafarers Appeals Board. CONTRACTS. Copies of all SIU contracts are available in all SIU halls. These contracts specify the wages and conditions under which an SIU member works and lives aboard a ship or boat. Members should know their contract rights, as well as their obligations, such as filing for overtime (OT) on the proper sheets and in the proper manner. If, at any time, a member believes that an SIU patrolman or other union official fails to protect their contractual rights properly, he or she should contact the nearest SIU port agent. EDITORIAL POLICY — THE SEAFARERS LOG. The Seafarers LOG traditionally has refrained from publishing any article serving the political purposes of any individual in the union, officer or member. It also has refrained from publishing articles deemed harmful to the union or its collective membership. This established policy has been reaffirmed by membership action at the September 1960 meetings in all constitutional ports. The responsibility for Seafarers LOG policy is vested in an editorial board which consists of the executive board of the union. The executive board may delegate, from among its ranks, one individual to carry out this responsibility. PAYMENT OF MONIES. No monies are to be paid to anyone in any official capacity in the SIU unless an official union receipt is given for same. Under no circumstances should any member pay any money for any reason unless he is given such receipt. In the event anyone attempts to require any such payment be made without supplying a receipt, or if a member is required to make a payment and is given an official receipt, but feels that he or she should not have been required to make such payment, this should immediately be reported to union headquarters. CONSTITUTIONAL RIGHTS AND OBLIGATIONS. Copies of the SIU Constitution are available in all union halls. All members should obtain copies of this constitution so as to familiarize themselves with its contents. Any time a member feels any other member or officer is attempting to deprive him or her of any constitutional right or obligation by any methods, such as dealing with charges, trials, etc., as well as all other details, the member so affected should immediately notify headquarters. EQUAL RIGHTS. All members are guaranteed equal rights in employment and as members of the SIU. These rights are clearly set forth in the SIU Constitution and in the contracts which the union has negotiated with the employers. Conse quently, no member may be discriminated against because of race, creed, color, sex, national or geographic origin. If any member feels that he or she is denied the equal rights to which he or she is entitled, the member should notify union headquarters. SEAFARERS POLITICAL ACTIVITY DONATION (SPAD). SPAD is a separate segregated fund. Its proceeds are used to further its objects and purposes in- cluding, but not limited to, furthering the political, social and economic interests of maritime workers, the preservation and furthering of the American merchant marine with improved employment opportunities for seamen and boatmen and the advancement of trade union concepts. In connection with such objects, SPAD supports and contributes to political candidates for elective office. All contributions are voluntary. No contribution may be solicited or received because of force, job discrimination, financial reprisal, or threat of such conduct, or as a condition of membership in the union or of employment. If a contribution is made by reason of the above improper conduct, the member should notify the Seafarers International Union or SPAD by certified mail within 30 days of the contribution for investigation and appropriate action and refund, if involuntary. A member should support SPAD to protect and further his or her economic, political and social interests, and American trade union concepts. NOTIFYING THE UNION — If at any time a member feels that any of the above rights have been violated, or that he or she has been denied the constitutional right of access to union records or information, the member should immediately notify SIU President Michael Sacco at headquarters by certified mail, return receipt requested. The address is: Michael Sacco, President Seafarers International Union 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746. April 2012 3/23/2012 10:23:10 AM �Paul Hall Center Upgrading Course Information The following is the schedule of courses at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md., for the next few months. All programs are geared to improving the job skills of Seafarers and to promoting the American maritime industry. Please note that this schedule may change to reflect the needs of the membership, the maritime industry and—in times of conflict—the nation’s security. Students attending any of these classes should check in the Saturday before their course’s start date. The courses listed here will begin promptly on the morning of the start dates. For classes ending on a Friday, departure reservations should be made for Saturday. Seafarers who have any questions regarding the upgrading courses offered at the Paul Hall Center may call the admissions office at (301) 994-0010. Title of Course Title of Course Chief Cook These modules start every other week. The next class begins April 6. Start Date Date of Completion Deck Department Lifeboat April 28 May 26 June 23 May 11 June 8 July 6 Able Seaman May 12 June 8 Fast Rescue Boat May 5 June 23 May 11 June 29 Radar May 19 June 1 ARPA June 2 June 8 Radar Renewal June 25 June 25 Engine Department BAPO May 26 June 22 FOWT April 28 June 23 May 25 July 20 Junior Engineer May 12 July 6 Marine Electrician May 5 June 29 Welding April 28 June 2 May 18 June 22 Safety Upgrading Courses Advanced Firefighting May 5 June 2 May 11 June 8 Basic Firefighting/STCW April 7 May 12 June 23 April 13 May 18 June 29 Medical Care Provider March 10 May 12 June 9 March 16 May 18 June 15 Government Vessels April 21 June 16 April 27 June 22 ` UPGRADING APPLICATION Name ________________________________________________________________________ Address ______________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________ Telephone (Home)_________________________ (Cell)_________________________ Date of Birth __________________________________________________________________ Deep Sea Member o Lakes Member o Inland Waters Member o If the following information is not filled out completely, your application will not be processed. Social Security #_______________________ Book # _________________________________ Seniority_____________________________ Department_____________________________ Home Port____________________________________________________________________ E-mail_______________________________________________________________________ Endorsement(s) or License(s) now held_____________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________ Are you a graduate of the SHLSS/PHC trainee program? o Yes o No If yes, class # __________________________________________________________________ Have you attended any SHLSS/PHC upgrading courses? o Yes o No If yes, course(s) taken____________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________ With this application, COPIES of the following must be sent: One hundred and twenty-five (125) days seatime for the previous year, one day in the last six months prior to the date your class starts, USMMD (z-card) front and back or relevant pages of merchant mariner credential, front page of your union book indicating your department and seniority, qualifying seatime for the course if it is Coast Guard tested, 1995 STCW Certificate, valid SHBP Clinic Card and TWIC. April 2012 10950_LOG_X.indd 21 Start Date Date of Compeltion Steward Department Serve Safe April 14 July 7 September 29 April 20 July 13 October 5 Chief Steward April 14 July 7 October 13 May 25 August 17 November 23 Galley Operations/Advanced Galley Operations These modules start every Monday. The next class will begin April 2. Reminder for Paul Hall Center Students Students who have registered for classes at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, but later discover—for whatever reason—that they cannot attend should inform the admissions department immediately so arrangements can be made to have other students take their places. NOTICE: National Maritime Center Web Site Provides Valuable Mariner Resources The National Maritime Center (NMC), the licensing authority for the U.S. Coast Guard, offers a comprehensive web site covering mariner credentialing, medical guidelines and much more. The site features a wide range of applications and forms, deck- and engine-department exam information, lists of Coast Guard-approved courses and COURSE more. Seafarers are encouraged to check out the site at:http://www.uscg.mil/nmc/ Mariners may call the NMC at 1-888-IASKNMC (1-888-427-5662). Operational hours are 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. EST, Monday through Friday. (The NMC is closed for all federal holidays.) Various email forms also are available through the NMC web site. ____________________________ START DATE _______________ DATE OF COMPLETION _______________________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________________ LAST VESSEL: ___________________________________ Rating: ____________________ Date On: _______________________________ Date Off:____________________________ SIGNATURE ____________________________________ DATE______________________ NOTE: Transportation will be paid in accordance with the scheduling letter only if you present original receipts and successfully complete the course. If you have any questions, contact your port agent before departing for Piney Point. Not all classes are reimbursable.Return completed application to: Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education Admissions Office, P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674-0075; or fax to (301) 994-2189. The Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education is a private, non-profit, equal opportunity institution and admits students, who are otherwise qualified, of any race, nationality or sex. The school complies with applicable laws with regard to admission, access or treatment of students in its programs or activities. 4/12 Seafarers LOG 21 3/26/2012 6:54:42 PM �Paul Hall Center Classes Unlicensed Apprentice Water Survival Class #756 – Twenty-one individuals (unlicensed apprentices and upgraders) completed this course Feb. 17. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Pedro Abuda, Rajeh Ahmed, Jose Alicea Sanchez, Nathaniel Balos, Eric Collins Jr., Lawa Dowdell, Elliot Duncan, John Garrett, Dominique Greer, Jonathan Harrell, Mark Maduro, Adele Messina, Paul Nelson, James O’Hara, Robert Resurreccion, Dennis Saggese, Frank Sambula, Julius Sykes, Jessie Ticer, Samuel Tilles and Danylo Zayats. (Note: Not all are pictured.) ARPA – The following individuals (above, in alphabetical order) completed the enhancement of their skills in this course Feb. 10. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Tyrone Hernandez, Charles Hosea Jr., Amancio Mendez, Stephen Roell, Kevin Stehlik and Richard Weaver. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Survival Craft/Personal Survival Techniques – Seven upgraders completed their requirements in this course March 2. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Leonard Anderson, Ronald Derouin, Michael Kolich, Christopher Mathers, Kenneth Mathers, Robbi Purcell and Danny Stropich. Class Instructor Bernabe Pelingon is seated in the vessel at the far left. Government Vessels – Sixteen individuals graduated from this course March 2. Those graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Harlan Alonzo, Joseph Arigo, Darrol Bates, Lawa Dowdell, Curtis Harris, Timothy Heil, Leola Johnson, Ogden Lee, David McCarthon, Kevin Moore, James Oling, Fidel Pascua, Paul Pitcher, Lamont Surrat, Gemini Tacang and James Watson. Tom Truitt, their instructor, is at the far right. BAPO – Twenty-three students, including upgraders as well as unlicensed apprentices, completed their training in this course March 2. Finishing their requirements and graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: John Albritton, Nabil Ali, Majed Alsharif, Lakisha Barnes, Major Brooks, Rodriques Carson,Dwight Cherry, Matthes Curtis, Davis Freitas, Bobbie Gibbs, Evan Hansen, Lucion Liles, Mark Loughman, Do Q. Luong, Trevor Manion, Tremain McCoy, Kyle Pardun, Davon Peterson, James Ross, Fadhel Saleh, Jerry Semper Jr., Michael Souza and Florencio Tindugan. Class Instructor Tim Achorn is at the far right, in the front row. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Marine Electrician – Six individuals graduated from this course March 2. Completing their requirements (above, in alphabetical order) were: Marion Cruzat, Mohsen Hubair, Kenneth Sumner, Jervona Vorise, Kareim Wright and Joshua Zelinsky. Jay Henderson, their instructor, is at the far left. BST – The following Seafarers (photo at right, in alphabetical order) upgraded their skills and graduated from this course Feb. 10: Ahmed Ali, Jamie Austria, Darrol Bates, Susano Cortez, Edward Dandy, William Doud, Lydia Dye, Henry Gamp, Paul Gohs, Santos Guity, Sean Hall, Andrew Lukasiewicz, George McAnern, John McCarthy, Sean McCarthy, Timothy McKenna, Fidel Pascua, James Roy, Monassar Saleh, Gary Toomer and Kevin Williams. Class Instructor Ethan Evans is at the far right. 22 Seafarers LOG 10950_LOG_X.indd 22 April 2012 3/26/2012 6:54:47 PM �Paul Hall Center Classes STOS – Sixteen individuals completed their requirements in this course March 2. Those graduating (photo at left, in alphabetical order) were: Patrick Bethel, Richard Brockway, John Cragin, Richard Cristiani, James Dillon, Steven Gagnon, Kevin Gebhard, Carlo Gentile, Priscilla Greene, Frank Jennings, Peter Mertz, Leo Onofrio, Sonny Perez, Christopher Sanicola, Derrick Siefke and Robert Tomo. Stan Beck, their instructor, is at the far left. Important Notice Students who have registered for classes at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, but later discover for whatever reason - that they can’t attend, should inform the admissions department immediately so arrangements can be made to have other students take their places. Medical Care Provider – Six Seafarers completed this course Feb. 10. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Wiliam Davis Jr., Roy Frett, Benjamin Hodge, Anthony Kimbrell, Michael Presser and Victor Quioto. Class Instructor Mike Roberts is at the far left. Welding – Upgraders Felipe Jimenez (above, left) and Kevin Carraby (above, right) augmented their skills by completing this course Feb. 10. Course Instructor Buzzy Andrews is in the center. Machinist – Six Seafarers completed their requirements in this course Feb. 10. Those graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Michael Blue, Ruben Haynes, Travis Moody, Carmus Peet, Lawrence Todd Jr., and Abner Torres. Their instructor, Steve Haver, is at the far left. Basic & Advanced Firefighting – Eight upgraders completed the enhancement of their skills in this course Feb. 10. Those graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Ashley Carmichael, Larry Harewood, Phillip Harmon, Jeffrey Idalski, Michael Lau, Walter Ritvalsky, Elmer Rochez and William White. Class instructors Joe Zienda and Wayne Johnson are at the far left and far right respectively. April 2012 10950_LOG_X.indd 23 Medical Care Provider – The following Seafarers (above, in alphabetical order) enhanced their skills by completing this course Feb. 17: Kevin Carraby, Ruben Haynes, Larry Harewood, Lisa Harewood, Reginald Hunter Sr., Jeffrey Idalski, Michael Lau, Travis Moody, Anthony Thomas and William White. Mark Cates, the class instructor, is at the far right. Vessel Security Officer – Upgrader Perry Cubeta (above, right) was the lone graduate of this course which culminated Feb. 9. At left is his instructor, Brad Wheeler. Machinist – Six Seafarers finished this course March 2. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Alex Amarra, Antoine Best, Mohammed Elazzouzi, Robert Orloff III, Cornelius Smith and Steben Torres. Class Instructor, Steve Haver, is in the center wearing white jacket. BST (Hawaii) – The following individuals (above, in no particular order) completed this course March 3 at the Seafarers Training Facility in Barbers Point, Hawaii: Jonathan Harvey, Mark Perkins, Heather Bohn, James Harvey, Patrick McCannon, Milena Mladenova, Jessica Platt, Thavy Van, Samuel Burdick, Holly Canale, Jessica Chapman, India Evans, Paul Guinan, Christopher Hogan, Koral King, David Lewis, Mindy Livesey, Christopher Lyons, Shalena Mumford and Ana Nunes. Seafarers LOG 23 3/26/2012 6:54:53 PM �Volume 74, Number 4 April 2012 Save With Union Plus Page 8 Port Agent Hazel Galbiso presents AB Bill Cooley with his full B-book. Seafarers and members of other MTD-affiliated unions demonstrate in support of the American Postal Workers Union. SIU Snapshots from Hawaii Safety Director Warren Asp congratulates ACU Jennifer Reid for receiving her full Bbook. Here are some recent photos of Seafarers aboard ship, at the union hall and demonstrating in support of fellow trade unionists in Hawaii. Additional photos from the Aloha State are posted on the gallery section of seafarers.org. Chief Steward Karen Fensel Manukai Chief Cook Efren Ancheta Jean Anne 10950_LOG.indd 24 AB Roger Tupas Jean Anne Chief Cook Romarico Hinayon Maunawili ABs Mohamed Mohamed and Ali Quarish Jean Anne Chief Steward Colleen Mast Matsonia ACU Nasser Hasson Manulani 3/23/2012 10:23:33 AM � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Seafarers Log Issues 2010-2019 Description An account of the resource Volumes LXXII-LXXXI of the Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Seafarers Log Digital Copies Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 2010-2019 Document A resource containing textual data. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre text. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource April 2012 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES MTD, GUESTS UNDERSCORED NEED FOR ROBUST U.S. MARITIME INDUSTRY JOBS CRISIS, PIRACY AMONG KEY TOPICS AT ANNUAL MEETING COALITION: U.S.-FLAG TONNAGE READY TO TRANSPORT SPR OIL AMP URGES ADHERENCE TO NEW RULES GOVERNING JONES ACT WAIVERS MTD SPEAKERS FOCUS ON NEED FOR JOBS MAERSK TEXAS NEWEST ADDITION TO SIU FLEET NEW CONTRACT SECURED WITH GREAT LAKES DREDGE AND DOCK SIU-CREWED GREEN WAVE DELIVERS SUPPLIES TO MCMURDO, COMPLETES ‘DEEP FREEZE’ MISSION HORIZON LINES RELEASES GREEN INITIATIVE REPORT FEDERATION ENDORSES PRESIDENT OBAMA STCW AMENDMENTS INCLUDE NEW MINIMUM FOR REST HOURS SIU ASSERTS VITAL IMPORTANCE OF TRAINING UNION TESTIFIES AT HOUSE HEARING SPURRED BY COSTA CONCORDA DISASTER LIKE SONS, LIKE FATHER SEAFARING LIFE PROVES GREAT FIT FOR ROSS FAMILY UNION VP ‘TAKES THE DIVE’ FOR A VERY SPECIAL CAUSE AFL-CIO PRESIDENT CITES CRITICAL JUNCTURE’ FOR U.S. ‘BEST OF AMERICA’S LABOR MOVEMENT’ LABOR SECRETARY, CONGRESSMEN CREDIT MTD UNIONS FOR VITAL ROLES MSC COMMANDER, NOAA ADMIRAL CITE CRUCIAL WORK OF U.S. MERCHANT MARINERS SUNY MARITIME PRESIDENT ECHOES NEED FOR GOOD JOBS, PARTNERSHIPS SPEAKERS OFFER DIFFERENT PERSPECTIVES, SAME FOCUS: JOBS PROGRESS IN PIRACY FIGHT, BUT MUCH WORK REMAINS Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Seafarers Log Digital Copies Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 04/01/2012 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Newsprint Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context Vol. 74, No. 4 http://www.seafarerslog.org/archives/files/original/42ec0f2435cbae6322c1ec651aa32830.pdf 69f50498730243eb04a2fbfce85d8c19 PDF Text Text Volume 74, Number 5 May 2012 Green Cove to the Rescue The SIU-crewed Green Cove saved four men (pictured in large photo at right) whose boat capsized approximately 200 miles off the coast of Colombia. Bosun Brad Brunette provided a recap and additional photos of the rescue. Page 3. Union Mourns René Lioeanjie The SIU sadly reports the passing of retired official René Lioeanjie (pictured above), who died April 10 at age 89. Lioeanjie was president of the National Maritime Union when that organization merged into the SIU in 2001. He subsequently served as an SIU vice president at large before retiring in 2009. Page 3. Alaska Tanker Company Crews Hone Safety Skills in Piney Point SIU members who sail with Alaska Tanker Company recently completed safety and leadership training at the union-affiliated Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md. A few of those Seafarers are pictured below. The mid-March gathering blended practical training and classroom instruction. It also featured a safetycentered discussion jointly hosted by SIU President Michael Sacco (middle in group photo) and ATC President Anil Mathur (second from right). That session included Seafarers and school personnel. Also pictured in the group photo are (from left) ATC Port Manager Mike Meadors, SIU Exec. VP Augie Tellez and ATC Labor Relation Director Bill Cole. Pages 12-13. Navy League Backs Jones Act Page 2 11757_May_Log_X.indd 1 Finance Committee, Pre-Balloting Reports Issued Page 4 Annual Funding Notices Pages 9-10 4/27/2012 6:43:07 PM �President’s Report TRANSCOM Leader Visits SIU Ships Workers Memorial Day Around the world on April 28, which is Workers Memorial Day, people remember those who were hurt or killed on the job, and those of us in the labor movement renew our struggle for safe workplaces. In town squares and union halls, at worksites and memorials, in community after community, we gather to remember our brothers and sisters who have lost their lives and those who fight for a safe work environment. Perhaps more than most, SIU members have a deep appreciation for on-the-job safety. It’s a constant focal point for Seafarers because of the nature of the maritime industry. There is no ambulance available to drive up when someone is injured aboard a vessel. Individual wellbeing is the most important reason for that focus; realistically, potential liabilities are a factor, too. When it comes to workplace safety, the SIU has a lot to be proud of, including our cooperative efforts with Seafarers-contracted companies and, of Michael Sacco course, with our affiliated Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md. Check out this month’s LOG feature on recent Alaska Tanker Company safety training for just one example of these efforts. Our struggle for safer workplaces at sea goes back almost a century, to Andrew Furuseth and the Seamen’s Act of 1915. Through our affiliation with the AFL-CIO, we are also part of a larger endeavor that involves all industries. It was the American labor movement four decades ago that secured enactment of the Occupational Safety and Health Act along with mine-safety laws that promised workers in this country a right to a safe job. Since then, we’ve made great progress in improving safety and protecting workers. Workplace fatalities and injuries have significantly declined. Exposures to job hazards and toxic chemicals have been reduced. This progress didn’t just happen because the OSHA law and mine safety laws were passed. It happened because workers and their unions organized and then demanded action from employers and their government. Just about every safety and health protection on the books today exists because of working men and women and their unions. Through this work, we’ve made jobs safer and saved lives – not just for union members, but for all workers. Still, much more work remains to be done. We all remember – and still feel the consequences of – the Deepwater Horizon tragedy, which claimed 11 lives. We all remember the horrific explosion at the Massey Upper Big Branch coal mine in West Virginia that killed 29 miners – the worst coal mine disaster in four decades. Those incidents made headlines around the world, but in that regard they were exceptions. Outside of local news coverage, how many of us hear about the thousands of workers who die in this country every year? The average for workplace fatalities is startling: 12 workers die on the job each day in the U.S. as a result of work-related injuries. Thousands more die each year from occupational diseases. On Workers Memorial Day (still a few days away at press time), the SIU will remember all of the victims, and we will renew our commitment to help prevent more tragedies. Much of that commitment involves political action, because, just like we have to constantly fight to maintain the Jones Act, cargo-preference laws and other statutes that are vital to maritime, we also have to defend workplace protections and job-safety measures. On that note, it’s only fair to credit the Obama administration for remaining committed to worker safety and health. Make no mistake, they have been our ally all the way, and that’s vitally important at a time when certain business groups and anti-worker legislators want to block new protections and roll back existing ones. On this Workers Memorial Day, we remember and pay tribute to those who have lost their lives on the job or have been injured or made sick. And on this day, we commit to work together to fight the assault on workers’ rights to bargain for fairer workplaces, safer job sites, a better life and a brighter future. The commander of the U.S. Transportation Command, Gen. William M. Fraser III (fourth from left), visited SIU-crewed Ready Reserve Force ships in Alameda, Calif., early last month. Pictured aboard the USNS Algol are (from left) Kevin Tokarski, associate administrator for national security, U.S. Maritime Administration; Command Chief Master Sgt. Marty Klukas, Air Combat Command, Langley Air Force Base; SIU VP West Coast Nick Marrone; Gen. Fraser; SIU Asst. VP Nick Celona; Bosun Charles Frisella; Bosun Ralph White; and Hank Ryan, ship operations and maintenance officer, Maritime Administration. TRANSCOM is in charge of global transportation for the Department of Defense. The Algol is operated by Ocean Shipholdings. American-Flag Ships Ready To Transport Fuel to Northeast With potential refinery closures in the Northeast looming as another unwelcome development in the already dire gas crisis, a major American maritime industry coalition has let the government know that plenty of U.S.-flag tonnage is ready to transport fuel to that part of the country from the Gulf of Mexico. The American Maritime Partnership (AMP), composed of 400 member organizations including the SIU, contacted the Department of Energy in late March to reiterate that U.S. ships can handle the job of carrying gas, heating oil and other important petroleumbased products wherever needed. The coalition also explained that using American-flag ships won’t affect the price of gas at the pump. According to the Energy Information Administration (EIA), part of the Department of Energy, three oil refineries located in and serving the American Northeast are scheduled to close in the coming months. Consumers in that region, and particularly New England, may suffer from supply shortages and severe price hikes at a time when gas prices are already upwards of $4 per gallon in many places. Since late 2011, two refineries in Pennsylvania have closed and another facility in the U.S. Virgin Islands shut its doors. In its communications to the government, AMP explained in detail how the Jones Act fleet has the ves- sel capacity and the workforce to transport the needed amount of oil and gas from the Gulf of Mexico and elsewhere to ports in the Northeast. Last February, the EIA released a report that erroneously stated Jones Act ships may be in “short supply” to move oil from the Gulf. This report was quickly discredited by AMP. “In an error of omission, the EIA’s analysis understated the American tank vessel capacity by approximately 50 percent,” AMP said in a letter. “Once all American tank vessel capacity is considered, there is ample capacity to address changes in petroleum product markets as a result of Northeast refinery closures.” The letter noted that the group is working with EIA to update its information and correct its report. Another rumor that apparently has been fed to the media by Jones Act opponents is that shipping American would increase the price of gas. This idea was also shot down by AMP, who pointed out that 90 percent of gas prices come from taxes and crude oil prices, neither of which have anything to do with shipping. The bottom line, according to AMP and other allies of the U.S.-flag fleet, is that American workers aboard American ships are ready to do their part in the oil crisis. Claims to the contrary, and requests for Jones Act waivers and other anti-U.S. worker agendas, are not only untrue but will be detrimental to continued economic growth. Navy League: Jones Act Vital to National Security Volume 74, Number 5 May 2012 The SIU online: www.seafarers.org The Seafarers LOG (ISSN 1086-4636) is published monthly by the Seafarers International Union; Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU, AFLCIO; 5201 Auth Way; Camp Springs, MD 20746. Telephone (301) 899-0675. Periodicals postage paid at Southern Maryland 20790-9998. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to the Seafarers LOG, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. Communications Director, Jordan Biscardo; Managing Editor/Production, Jim Guthrie; Assistant Editor, Paddy Lehane; Photographer, Harry Gieske; Administrative Support, Misty Dobry. Copyright © 2012 Seafarers International Union, AGLIWD. All Rights Reserved. The Seafarers International Union engaged an environmentally friendly printer for the production of this newspaper. 2 Seafarers LOG 11757_May_Log.indd 2 A recently released annual policy statement from the Navy League of the United States, Maritime Primacy & Economic Security, says the Jones Act is critical to U.S. economic, homeland and national security – serving the nation by maintaining a skilled merchant marine, shipbuilding capacity and sealift capability. Announced in late March, the policy statement says the Navy League supports “the Jones Act and Passenger Vessel Services Act, which are important to economic and national security because they protect critical national infrastructure and provide added sealift capacity through the Voluntary Intermodal Sealift Agreement (VISA), an expanded pool of trained and experienced mariners to crew U.S. government-owned sealift assets and help sustain the U.S. shipbuilding and repair industrial base that is vital to the U.S. Navy and Coast Guard.” The Jones Act mandates the use of vessels that are crewed, built, owned and flagged American to move cargo between domestic U.S. ports. Similar laws and statutes apply the same ground rules to the movement of passengers, towing, dredging and marine salvage. The law boosts security by adding a sealift capacity as well as an expanded pool of trained and experienced mariners to crew U.S. governmentowned sealift assets. It also prevents foreign-owned, foreign-crewed tonnage from having unfettered access to U.S. waterways. “We are pleased that the Navy League supports the Jones Act and understands the essential role the law plays in creating jobs and protecting our homeland,” said James Henry, president of the Transportation Institute and chairman of the board of directors of the American Maritime Partnership, a major coalition of American maritime industry members including the SIU. “The Jones Act makes America more secure economically and militarily by maintaining a skilled merchant marine that supports our military while providing nearly 500,000 American jobs.” The policy statement says the Jones Act is critical to the long-term sustainability of the U.S. fleet, noting that without commercial capability, the U.S. government would be required to provide significantly more funds to build a replacement fleet and infrastructure (at an estimated costs of many billions of dollars) while losing the pool of highly qualified mariners needed to sail these vessels. In addition, the Navy League says the Jones Act has a positive impact on the U.S. economy. May 2012 4/26/2012 7:02:59 PM �Lioeanjie, Last NMU President, Dies at 89 Rene Lioeanjie, who as president of the old National Maritime Union helped implement its merger into the SIU more than a decade ago, died April 10 in Panama. He was 89 and had been in poor health. Among other accomplishments, Lioeanjie will be remembered for organizing Panama Canal workers and for important efforts in the International Transport Workers’ Federation’s flag-of-convenience campaign. But his most significant achievement, according to several people who worked closely with him, was helping finalize a merger that had been attempted on and off for decades. “He saved the NMU by merging with the SIU,” stated SIU President Michael Sacco. “Rene stepped forward and knew what had to be done to save his members’ jobs. He was a man of his word.” Charlie Stewart, a former NMU official and retired Seafarers vice president at large who knew Lioeanjie since 1962, said his departed colleague “did an outstanding job and steered the ship right. He did the right thing in leading us to the merger and asking the SIU to accept us. Without that move, we’d probably be out on the street…. He’s to be congratulated, and I hope his family and friends recognize what he’s done for us.” Lioeanjie was the NMU’s fourth president, and he held that post from 1997 until the merger took place in 2001. From then until his retirement in 2009, he was a vice president at large for the Seafarers. A native of Dutch Guyana, Lioeanjie went to the United States in 1945 after sailing on Dutch-flag ships and immediately started sailing aboard American-flag vessels. He sailed as an ordinary seaman, deck storekeeper, quartermaster and bosun until he went ashore in 1955 as chief, master of Rene Lioeanjie (left) shakes hands with the late SIU Exec. VP John Fay as merger documents are signed in 2001. arms at the New York headquarters of the NMU. He became a U.S. citizen that year. Moving up within the union, Lioeanjie was responsible for some groundbreaking activities and frequently represented the NMU on innovative projects—always aimed at improving the working conditions of all mariners. He tackled the job of working with crews on runaway-flag vessels and later was appointed organizer for the International Maritime Workers Union, an orga- nization formed by the NMU and the SIU to organize FOC ships. Lioeanjie then went to organize seamen on public-sector vessels and federal employees in the Panama Canal Zone. Working his way up through the ranks, he served as patrolman, agent, vice president, secretary-treasurer and president. SIU Executive Vice President Augie Tellez said Lioeanjie “was very courageous in taking the step that he took for his membership regarding the merger. In difficult times, he made the right decisions for his members.” SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel remembered Lioeanjie as “a very humble individual who was pleasant to work with. He worked diligently for mariners from all nations to better their lives.” ITF General Secretary David Cockroft said, “Both in his NMU and, later, SIU roles, he played a leading role in ITF policy. The whole family will miss him.” Green Cove Crew Rescues Four Editor’s note: Bosun Brad Brunette wrote the following account and provided the accompanying photos from a recent rescue by the Central Gulf Lines vessel Green Cove. On Dec. 8, 2011 at 1400, the captain of the Green Cove received a call from an airborne warning and control system (AWACS) plane. The pilot reported a capsized vessel and asked for our assistance. This happened approximately 200 miles off the coast of Colombia. The captain proceeded to the location the pilot provided. Once we were there, the AWACS stayed on station until the men were safely aboard our ship. Bosun Brad Brunette and ABs Edward Ayres and Dhindo Faulve lashed two cargo nets together and lowered them alongside the pilot ladder. It turned out the men in the disabled boat were too weak to use the ladder, so we rigged the gangway to get them aboard. Once aboard our ship, the men were treated for exposure and dehydration by AB Fred Martinez and the chief mate. The rescued men received the best Christmas present ever: being able to return to their families. They told us they had been adrift for nine days, and were out of water and food. They were very lucky to have survived. Once rehydrated and fed, they felt much better and were transferred later that night to a Brazilian naval vessel. In addition to those already mentioned, SIU members aboard the ship during the rescue included AB Larry Byrd, AB Louis Holder, AB Kelvin Johnson, OMU Dale Graham, OMU Davon McMillan, Steward/Baker Wayne Howard, Chief Cook Leslie McGirt and SA Diana House. The U.S. Navy plane above contacted the Green Cove and remained on site through the rescue’s completion. In the photo at right, the men from the capsized boat safely climb aboard the Green Cove. May 2012 11757_May_Log.indd 3 Seafarers LOG 3 4/26/2012 7:03:01 PM �Membership Receives Pre-Balloting Report SIU President Michael Sacco has issued the pre-balloting report to the membership announcing general elections for the union’s officers will take place this year. The release of this report is called for in Article X, Section 1(e) of the SIU constitution. The report lists the various offices that will appear on the ballot. Voting will begin Nov. 1 and continue through Dec. 31. Those elected will serve a four-year term from 2013 through 2016. A total 25 positions from president to port agent will appear on the ballot. In presenting the report, Sacco noted he has worked with the union’s executive board and port officials to appraise the needs of the SIU for the next four years and beyond, while considering changes that have occurred in the industry. Printed here is the full text of the 2012 pre-balloting report. May 7, 2012 Pursuant to Article X, section 1(e) of our Constitution, I am submitting at this regular May membership meeting of this election year, my Pre-Balloting Report. The balloting for our General Election of Officers for the term 2013-2016 will commence on November 1, 2012 and continue through December 31, 2012. The election will be conducted under the provisions of our Constitution, as amended and effective March 13, 2009, and such other voting procedures as our Secretary-Treasurer may direct. I have, in consultation with our Executive Board and Port Representatives, made a careful appraisal of the needs of this union, its membership and its currently existing constitutional ports. We have carefully considered the changes that have taken place in the maritime industry over the last few years, with a view toward meeting the everchanging demands. It is my recommendation, in accordance with our Constitution, that the following offices be placed on the ballot in the 2012 General Election of Officers for the term 2013-2016: n 1 President n 1 Executive Vice President n 1 Secretary-Treasurer n 1 Vice President in Charge of Contracts and Contract Enforcement n 1 Vice President in Charge of the Atlantic Coast n 1 Vice President in Charge of the Gulf Coast n 1 Vice President in Charge of the Southern Region, Great Lakes, and Inland Waters n 1 Vice President in Charge of the West Coast n 1 Vice President in Charge of Government Services and Fishing Industries n 1 Assistant Vice President in Charge of Contracts and Contract Enforcement n 1 Assistant Vice President in Charge of the Atlantic Coast n 1 Assistant Vice President in Charge of the Gulf Coast n 1 Assistant Vice President in Charge of the Southern Region, Great Lakes and Inland Waters n 1 Assistant Vice President in Charge of the West Coast n 1 Assistant Vice President in Charge of Government Services and Fishing Industries n 10 Port Agents There shall be one (1) Port Agent in each of the ten (10) constitutional ports; namely: New York, Philadelphia, Baltimore, Mobile, New Orleans, Houston, Algonac, Oakland, St. Louis and Piney Point. In accordance with the above-mentioned Article X, Section 1(e) of our Constitution, I am required to recommend a bank, a bonded warehouse, regular office thereof, or any similar depository, to which the ballots are to be mailed, no later than the first regular meeting in October of this year. I will make such a recommendation to the membership before such deadline. As provided for in Article XIII, Section 1, nominations open July 15, 2012 and close August 15, 2012. The foregoing constitutes your President’s Pre-Balloting Report and, subject to my further recommendation as to the depository to be made hereafter, I recommend its adoption. Fraternally submitted, Michael Sacco President ITF Seafarers’ Trust Celebrates 30th Anniversary The International Transport Workers’ Federation’s Seafarers’ Trust recently celebrated its 30th anniversary during a formal gathering in London. SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel, chair of the trustees for the ITF Seafarers’ Trust, was a featured speaker at the March 22 event. Also addressing the audience were ITF President Paddy Crumlin, ITF General Secretary David Cockroft and Tom Holmer, the Trust’s administrative officer. Established by the ITF’s Executive Board, the Trust is a charitable body “dedicated to the spiritual, moral and physical welfare of seafarers irrespective of nationality, race or creed.” It is funded by investment income from the parent organization, which itself is a federation of transportation-related unions from around the world. The ITF’s 690 affiliates (including the SIU) SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel (right), who also serves in multiple capacities with the ITF, presents a memento to Conrad Oca, son of the late AMOSUP leader whose life was devoted to promoting mariner welfare. The presentation was part of an event celebrating the ITF Seafarers’ Trust. represent more than 4.5 million workers in 153 countries. During the ceremony in London, Heindel said that in his 10 years of involvement with the Trust, he has been “amazed and proud to see the amount of work which we have managed to do to benefit seafarers. We have issued many grants worth millions of pounds. We view this as seafarers’ money, and as such, we believe the funds should be put to work to benefit the world’s seafarers.” He recalled that in the 1980s and 1990s, most of the Trust’s expenditures were for new or renovated buildings that help provide mariners “a home away from home” in ports around world. Both during those decades and more recently, other monies were spent on things including vehicles that help mariners safely go ashore and equipment that helps them keep in touch with their families. After describing some of the changes in shipboard life in the last 10 years as well as some of the most significant modern challenges, Heindel, who also serves the ITF in another capacity (as chair of the federation’s Seafarers’ Section) said that outreach to mariners “has had to become more mobile.” He also emphasized that the Trust’s work is meant to be compassionate, but not a form of pity. “I am a seafarer as are a number of you here tonight,” Heindel said. “We know the life, and we know the advantages and the disadvantages of working at sea. One thing that all of us in the Trust understand is that seafarers are not helpless members of society who need charity in order to be able to function. As a trade unionist acting on behalf of seafarers, I know we are working with professionals, all of whom want to do better for themselves and their families. I believe it is up to us to make their lives a little easier and help them feel welcome when they come ashore.” He then credited the cooperative work of ITF-affiliated unions, inspectors, shipowners and operators. Individual efforts have made a difference, too, and Heindel said one of the unions that has been quite active in promoting mariner welfare – both through the ITF and on their own – is the Associated Marine Officers’ and Seamen’s Union of the Philippines (AMOSUP). He praised the groundbreaking work of AMOSUP’s late leader, Capt. Greg Oca, who “was considered a visionary – a man of action, known to both the maritime industry and labor sector, who had consistently championed the rights of seafarers and other workers alike through the continuing welfare programs that he has established. These include four modern hospitals, a shelter institution program, dormitory facilities, a commissary for Filipino seafarers, a modern training center, a licensure facility affiliated with the Professional Regulation Commission, a worldclass maritime school and an institution for higher maritime studies, to name a few.” In recognition of Capt. Oca’s work, the Trust then announced that a scholarship to the World Maritime University has been named in his honor. Comprehensive information about the Trust is available online at www.seafarerstrust.org. Rank-and-File Committee Okays Union’s Financial Records for 2011 The union’s financial records for 2011 have been reviewed and approved by a committee of rank-and-file Seafarers who were elected by fellow SIU members at the April membership meeting in Piney Point, Md. This annual review is mandated by the union’s constitution, which also calls for the financial committee’s report to be read in all ports at the SIU’s monthly membership meetings and presented for membership approval. The report also has been submitted to the SIU secretary-treasurer. The following Seafarers served on the committee following their election: Kevin Moore (chairman), Antuan Barnes, Ion Boros, Willie Marsh, Frank Messick, Timothy Pillsworth, and Jerry Stillman. They met at SIU headquarters in Camp 4 Seafarers LOG 11757_May_Log_X.indd 4 Springs, Md., the first week of April, where they studied all of the appropriate records and found them in good order. In its report, the committee noted, “All records used in connection with the union’s financial operations were reviewed fully…. We find that the headquarters of the union is taking all steps possible to safeguard union funds and to see that the disbursements of the union are in accordance with the authority delegated to them and that, at the same time, there is a striving effort to increase day-to-day efficiency of our operation.” Article X, Section 14-c of the SIU Constitution lists the duties of the annual financial committee along with rules and procedures for electing the committee. Seafarers and two SIU officials are pictured at headquarters right after the financial committee finished its report. Seated left to right are Timothy Pillsworth, Antuan Barnes, Ion Boros and Frank Messick. Standing (from left) are Asst. VP Ambrose Cucinotta, Jerry Stillman, Willie Marsh, Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel and Kevin Moore, the committee chairman. May 2012 4/27/2012 6:43:09 PM �NY Waterway Crew Plucks Shipping Industry Giant Three People from Harbor Maersk McKinney-Moller Seafarers working for NY Waterway were part of a rescue in the New York Harbor near Liberty Island on April 6. Captain Mohamed Gouda and Deckhand Marquis Mainor responded to an overturned tugboat that left three people in the frigid waters. After doing a scheduled drop-off on Wall Street, the NY Waterway vessel was returning to New Jersey. Shortly after departing, Gouda noticed a capsized tugboat (the Katherine G.) turned on its side, and three people floating in the water. Gouda and Mainor quickly jumped into action and lowered a rescue device into the water which was used to pull the stranded victims aboard the vessel. “I approached them and my deckhand (Mainor) lowered the Jason’s Cradle,” said Gouda in an interview with a local radio station, 1010 WINS. “We were able to pick them up safely and bring them to safety.” The three people pulled from the water were sent to area hospitals for evaluation. None of the three suffered life-threatening injuries and all are expected to make a full recovery, according to news sources. This isn’t the first time Gouda has par- ticipated in a rescue in New York Harbor. He was one of the first responders to the Flight 1549 crash landing known as the “Miracle on the Hudson.” On Jan. 15, 2009, a passenger jet that just took off from nearby LaGuardia Airport crossed paths with a flock of geese, resulting in engine failure. The plane landed safely in the water, but also stranded 155 people in the middle of the freezing cold river. Gouda and his fellow Seafarers are credited with saving 143 people that day. In addition to the Miracle on the Hudson, NY Waterway vessels and their SIU crews took part in the evacuation of lower Manhattan after the 9/11 attacks. Mainor credits his quick-thinking and lifesaving actions in this most recent rescue to the training he’s received over the years. “We prepare for things like this to happen,” said Mainor in an interview with CBS New York. “We didn’t know it was going to happen today, but it happens.” Gouda agrees that the unpredictability is all in a day’s work for Seafarers. “Another day, another adventure,” Gouda told 1010 WINS. Maritime Trades Department, U.S.-Flag Coalition Set Newspaper Straight On Ex-Im Bank Shipping Maritime Trades Department President Michael Sacco and a coalition of maritime unions and U.S.-flag shipping companies recently set the record straight about legislation in Congress to reauthorize the U.S. ExportImport (Ex-Im) Bank until 2015. Sacco, who also serves as president of the SIU, challenged a Washington Post editorial of April 9 that sought to end U.S.-flag shipping requirements for American export cargo generated by Ex-Im Bank loans. The newspaper went so far as to call the action “protectionist.” (Since its 1934 creation, Ex-Im Bank-generated cargo has been carried aboard U.S.-flag vessels.)  “In an industry where foreign competitors are heavily subsidized by their governments, we must ensure American mariners move American goods financed by American tax dollars,” Sacco stated. “The Post’s call for not expanding the portfolio of the Export-Import Bank should not be placed on the backs of yet more American workers who simply perform their jobs day-in and day-out in a safe, world-class manner.” The measure before the Senate at press time has bipartisan support and White House backing as the bank’s work produces U.S. jobs. Yet, the newspaper’s editorial board calls for a reduction of the bank’s portfolio in order to save money and “phase out marketdistorting practices.” In a separate response to the Post, Jim Henry, chairman of USA Maritime, which is composed of U.S.-flag carriers and maritime unions (including the SIU and several other MTD affiliates), wrote: “The cargo vessels financed by Ex-Im Bank are vital to U.S. national security. They are among those vessels that meet critical Department of Defense national security sealift requirements and, as a result, transported over 90 percent of the equipment and supplies to our troops in Iraq and Afghanistan. The use of these fleets is extremely cost-effective; it would cost at least $13 billion just for the capital costs of duplicating a portion of U.S.-flag sealift capability if purchased directly by the government. “And finally, the operation of U.S.-flag ships provides Americans much-needed jobs; jobs that are critical to the U.S. industrial base.” The bottom line, according to Henry, is, “By eliminating Ex-Im support, we will increase the cost of shipping, eliminate American jobs and weaken our national defense. This is a great investment in America and in our U.S. maritime fleet.” Passes Away at Age 98 Legacy Includes Strong Support of America The maritime industry recently lost a man widely considered as one of its greatest leaders of all time: Maersk McKinney-Moller, the former chairman of the A.P. Moller – Maersk Group, parent organization of Maersk Line, Limited. He died on April 16, at age 98. McKinney-Moller is credited with growing the Maersk Group into one of the largest and most prolific shipping companies in the world. The company was the first to build ships that catered exclusively to standardized containers in the 1950s. Today, its container vessels transport an estimated 15 percent of the world’s manufactured goods. Maersk also operates a major tanker fleet and manages container terminals around the globe, owns a prominent oil and gas exploration company in the North Sea, and is one of Denmark’s top retailers through a collection of supermarket brands. A native of Copenhagen, McKinneyMoller started in the shipping business in the 1930s, took over as chairman of the company in 1965 and proceeded to expand it. His work made him Denmark’s wealthiest man and one of the richest in the world. McKinney-Moller was also a good friend to American workers and the American government in times of need. His mother was American, and he was temporarily relocated to the U.S. during World War II. Examples of McKinney-Moller’s close ties to the U.S. were plentiful. His ships sailed under U.S. and British flags during World War II; during the Persian Gulf War in the early 1990s, he diverted vessels from his fleet, at no charge, to carry troops and materiel to the area, according to an obituary in The New York Times. He was also the first non-American member of IBM’s Board of Directors. “He truly did a lot for the U.S. Merchant Marine,” said SIU President Michael Sacco, who added that he was very impressed when he met McKinneyMoller. “He treasured his experience in the United States and was a great patriot. He also was really one of the giants of his time.” Also known for his philanthropy, Maersk McKinney-Moller owned the world’s largest publicly held container shipping group and was a respected backer of the U.S. McKinney-Moller officially retired from the board of his family’s company in 2003. However, he continued to work and is credited with having remained a key figure for years after his retirement. In a statement released by his family, McKinney-Moller is remembered as an influential and appreciative man. “We are grateful that our father lived a long and eventful life. In his never-failing wish to do good, together with many and great initiatives, he has left a significant mark on our time,” said the statement, written by McKinney-Moller’s daughter Ane Maersk-McKinney Uggla. “On this day, I am compelled to give thanks to all current and previous employees of the A.P. Moller - Maersk Group for the loyalty which has been shown to our father throughout the years.” Labor Movement Stunned By Death of Mark Ayers The SIU has joined with the rest of the American labor movement in mourning the death of AFL-CIO Building and Construction Trades Department (BCTD) President Mark Ayers, who passed away unexpectedly April 8 at age 63. Ayers led the BCTD since 2007. Previously, he served for nine years as an official with the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW). He also was a member of IBEW Local 34 in his native Illinois since 1973, which he headed as business manager for nine years. A veteran of the U.S. Navy who most recently resided in Alexandria, Va., Ayers was remembered as an effective, likeable leader. AFL-CIO President Richard Trumka called him an “extraordinary leader and friend.” U.S. Secretary of Labor Hilda Solis stated, “Whether it was fighting for in- May 2012 11757_May_Log.indd 5 vestments in infrastructure and good construction jobs, securing decent wages and safe workplaces or protecting health benefits and pension plans, Mark stood proudly on the side of working people. And I was proud to stand with him.” IBEW President Edwin Hill said, “I can’t think of anyone who worked harder to build our common movement. His steady hand and activist spirit steered the IBEW and the Building Trades through some of the toughest times we’ve ever faced. But more than that: Mark was my friend.” A statement from the BCTD announcing Ayers’ passing read in part, “President Ayers was a labor leader of vision, innovation, passion and integrity, and it was through his leadership that North America’s Building Trade Unions were on the path to success and increased market share for the union construction industry. Although our hearts are heavy today, our spirits are lifted by virtue of the unsullied legacy of a working man who was grounded and guided to his core through the values that were instilled in him during this upbringing in Peoria, Illinois. Mark Ayers was a true trade unionist in every sense of the word, and it was through that commitment to bettering the lives of working families that he was able to offer so much to his country, his family, and the labor movement.” SIU President Michael Sacco paid respects at Ayers’ funeral, which took place April 18 at Metropolitan Memorial United Methodist Church in Washington, D.C. Ayers’ survivors include his wife, mother, brother, two daughters and numerous grandchildren, nieces and nephews. Mark Ayers served as BCTD president since 2007. Seafarers LOG 5 4/26/2012 7:03:05 PM �Ocean Crescent Carries Last Army Vehicle from Kuwait Rugged MRAP Hitches Ride Aboard Union-Crewed Vessel Earlier this year, the SIU-crewed Alliance St. Louis transported what is believed to have been the last shipment of war materiel coming directly from an Iraqi port to the U.S. More recently, Seafarers on the Ocean Crescent contributed to another milestone when they helped carry the last U.S. Army vehicle from the port of Shuaiba, Kuwait. According to communications from vessel master Capt. Jeff Fischer and from the Army, the final U.S. vehicle to drive out of Iraq was loaded onto the Ocean Crescent on March 24. The mine-resistant, ambush-protected vehicle (MRAP) was slated for delivery to Fort Hood, Texas, in April. According to an Army spokesman, “The last vehicle in Iraq represents our nation’s efforts over the past nine years to bring freedom to the Iraqi people.” The Army further reported that the MRAP will be preserved for historical value at the 1st Cavalry Division Museum at Fort Hood. The Ocean Crescent, operated by Pacific-Gulf Marine, is manned by SIU members and officers from the Seafarers-affiliated AMO. Pictured from left to right are AB Albert Bharrat, ACU Edward English, Chief Steward Emie Aguinaldo, AB Jovan Williams, Bosun Joseph Casalino, Electrician David Brewster and GUDE Justino Riascos-Sanchez. At Great Lakes Dredge and Dock As reported in the April LOG, SIU members employed by Great Lakes Dredge and Dock (GLDD) recently approved a three-year contract calling for wage increases while maintaining benefits. A few of the 100 or so Seafarers who sail in the GLDD fleet are pictured here along with a shot of the hopper dredge Liberty Island. Chief Engineer Michael Las Dulce Maritime Briefs Important Note about Vacation Applications and Beneficiaries Recently, the Seafarers Vacation Plan slightly modified the wording in the beneficiary section of the printed application for benefits. This change was done in order to better serve the membership and to eliminate potential confusion. The new text specifies that the beneficiary named on a Seafarers Vacation Plan application will be used by the Plan “in the event of your death before payment of your vacation benefit. It will also be used for the payment of death benefit from an affiliated plan(s) only in the event that you do not have a valid beneficiary on file with the particular plan or if the beneficiary on the file has predeceased you….” Seafarers are encouraged to check the membersonly section of www.seafarers.org to confirm whether they have current beneficiaries on file. Seafarers also may call the membership assistance line at 1-800-2524674. MSC Praises Performance Of SIU-Crewed USNS Wheat The commander of the U.S. Military Sealift Command (MSC) recently lauded the efforts of crew members aboard the Maersk-operated USNS LCPL Roy M. Wheat. In a message to the vessel, Rear Adm. Mark Buzby said he “noted with extreme pleasure the professional mariners of LCPL Roy M. Wheat have done an exceptional job of ensuring a safe working environment. Your superb efforts to mitigate safety-related mishaps including comprehensive and professional internal safety reporting continue to set a high standard for the Military Sealift fleet. Your attention to detail has been crucial to providing continuity of safe operations across the globe.” The Wheat is part of MSC’s prepositioning fleet. Capt. Dick Roel Mate Todd Schaefer AB Dave Ling Agency Publicizes Additional Logbook and Entry Requirements The U.S. Coast Guard recently called attention to a new section of the U.S. Code titled “Additional Logbook and Entry Requirements” (46 U.S.C. Chapter 113). The new section stems from amendments to the Coast Guard Authorization Act of 2010. According to the agency’s announcement, “The new section is comprised of paragraphs (a) and (b) with the latter broken down into three specific subrequirements. U.S. vessels subject to inspection must have an official logbook, which shall be kept available for review by the Secretary (i.e., Coast Guard) upon request. Entries must now include: (1) officer/seaman watch change outs, (2) hours of service for officers/ seamen, and (3) documentation of accidents, illnesses, and injuries that occur during watch.” The announcement continued, “Congress did not direct specific tasking or an implementation period 6 Seafarers LOG 11757_May_Log.indd 6 for these new additions to the U.S. Code. Currently, Commandant, Office of Operating and Environmental Standards (CG-522) is conducting an analysis to determine if new regulations are required. In the meantime, OCMIs should immediately notify local vessel operators that are impacted, so they can take proactive measures to be in compliance. Coast Guard marine inspectors should be checking to ensure these new logbook entry requirements are being complied with at each inspection. To ensure vessel operators have adequate time to come into compliance, initial enforcement actions should focus on educating mariners vice initiating civil penalty actions.” Questions concerning the notice may be directed to the Office of Vessel Activities, Domestic Compliance Division at 202-372-1224 or CG5431@uscg.mil. Mariner Exams at MU Guam Scheduled via Honolulu REC The National Maritime Center in mid-March reported that all mariners “who wish to take examinations at Monitoring Unit (MU) located in Guam will be scheduled through the Regional Examination Center Honolulu.” The REC in Honolulu is located at 433 Ala Moana Blvd., ZIP Code 96813, telephone (808) 522-8258. The home web page for that particular center is www.uscg. mil/nmc/recs/hon.asp. The NMC further noted that mariners “wanting to submit their application at MU Guam should submit their complete application package to any of the 17 Regional Examination Centers (REC). The most efficient way to submit an application is by e-mail. Instructions can be found on our website under the REC Information menu. For questions about the use of the new forms, please contact the NMC by email at iasknmc@ uscg.mil or by phone at 1-888-IASKNMC.” Coast Guard Announces Final Rule for Ballast Water Earlier this year, the U.S. Coast Guard announced its final rule concerning living organisms in ships’ ballast water discharged into the waters of the United States. The agency is amending its regulations on ballast water management by establishing a standard for the allowable concentration of living organisms in ballast water discharged from vessels in American waters. Also, the Coast Guard is amending its regulations for engineering equipment by establishing an approval process for ballast water management systems. Jeffery Lantz, director of the agency’s Office of Commercial Regulations and Standards, who is a strong supporter of the U.S. Merchant Marine, said the new regulations are aimed at helping control the introduction and spread of non-indigenous species. He added that the final rule is consistent with the discharge standard adopted by the International Maritime Organization in 2004. May 2012 4/26/2012 7:03:08 PM �OVERSEAS SERVICINGS – Earlier this year, SIU VP West Coast Nick Marrone and Guam Port Agent John Hoskins met with SIU members on several vessels in Saipan and Diego Garcia. In the photo above, Marrone (front, left) is pictured with Seafarers aboard the Maersk-operated USNS Pfc. Dewayne T. Williams. Hoskins is standing third from right in the other photo, taken aboard the Central Gulf Lines ship Green Lake. At Sea And Ashore With the SIU ABOARD ALASKAN EXPLORER – Patrolman Nick Marrone II (third from left in the photo above) found the crew of the Alaskan Explorer in good spirits when he serviced the Alaska Tanker Company vessel March 16 in Benicia, Calif. Standing left to right in the group photo are Chief Cook David Vaughn, AB Rasheen Breathwaite, Marrone, Bosun Frank Sena and Chief Steward John Huyett. SA Eusebio Avila is pictured in the photo at right above. HEADED FOR JORDAN – Capt. Kimberly Borges (behind the lens) sent along this photo of Seafarers, officers and security team members aboard the MV Patriot in late March. The ship, owned by Crowley and operated by American Roll-On/Roll-Off Carrier, was sailing for Aqaba, Jordan. SIU members in the photo include Bosun Erik Penia, AB Santos Baltazar, AB Joel Eay, AB David Kennedy, OS Terence Brennan, OS Dannal Williams, OMU James Anderson, OMU Anthony Dellorusso, OMU Arthur Sanders, Chief Steward Thomas Allen, Chief Cook Bruce Johnson and SA Bannacke Figueroa-Diaz. May 2012 11757_May_Log.indd 7 WELCOME ASHORE IN JACKSONVILLE – QMED Wilbur Ensminger (right) receives his first pension check and a word of congratulations from Asst. VP Archie Ware in Jacksonville, Fla. Ensminger recently retired following an SIU career that dated back to 1990. Seafarers LOG 7 4/26/2012 7:03:13 PM �Bosun Francisco Bonilla AB Peter Westropp AB Glen Rogers Holiday Spirit and Pigskin Talk Prevalent on Alliance Beaumont Early in the New Year, AB Lisa Sottile mailed the photos appearing on this page to the LOG, along with notes describing lots of holiday spirit and pro football banter aboard the Alliance Beaumont. The pigskin loyalties were decidedly mixed on the Maersk Line, Limited ship (rooting interests included the Saints, Ravens, Vikings and Texans), but good cheer prevailed aboard the roll-on/rolloff vessel. OMU Charlie Walker, SA Johnny Sawyer, Third Mate Thomas Delamater AB Tyrone Benjamin admires Corvo, the northernmost island of the Azores. Electrician Paul Pagano lights the holiday tree. AB Richard Wittwer 8 Seafarers LOG 11757_May_Log.indd 8 QMED Vorden “Chip” Ferguson Chief Cook Tony Rutland (right) and Chief Mate Bob Haradon show that the giftgiving spirit is alive and well aboard ship. May 2012 4/26/2012 7:03:20 PM �ANNUAL FUNDING NOTICE MCS SUPPLEMENTARY PENSION PLAN Introduction This notice includes important funding information about your pension plan (“the Plan”). This notice also provides a summary of federal rules governing multiemployer plans in reorganization and insolvent plans and benefit payments guaranteed by the Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation (PBGC), a federal agency. This notice is for the plan year beginning January 1, 2011 and ending December 31, 2011 (referred to hereafter as “Plan Year”). Funded Percentage The funded percentage of a plan is a measure of how well that plan is funded. This percentage is obtained by dividing the Plan’s assets by its liabilities on the valuation date for the plan year. In general, the higher the percentage, the better funded the plan. The Plan’s funded percentage for the Plan Year and 2 preceding plan years is set forth in the chart below, along with a statement of the value of the Plan’s assets and liabilities for the same period. Valuation Date Funded Percentage Value of Assets Value of Liabilities 2011 January 1, 2011 153.87% $7,049,456 $4,581,505 2010 January 1, 2010 142.91% $6,813,528 $4,767,618 2009 January 1, 2009 143.43% $7,140,845 $4,987,794 Fair Market Value of Assets Asset values in the chart above are actuarial values, not market values. Market values tend to show a clearer picture of a plan’s funded status as of a given point in time. However, because market values can fluctuate daily based on factors in the marketplace, such as changes in the stock market, pension law allows plans to use actuarial values for funding purposes. While actuarial values fluctuate less than market values, they are estimates. As of December 31, 2011, the unaudited fair market value of the Plan’s assets was $6,811,370. As of December 31, 2010, the fair market value of the Plan’s assets was $7,049,456. As of December 31, 2009, the fair market value of the Plan’s assets was $7,048,783. The December 31, 2011 fair value of assets disclosed above is reported on an unaudited basis since this notice is required to be distributed before the normal completion time of the audit which is currently in progress. Participant Information The total number of participants in the plan as of the Plan’s valuation date was 819. Of this number, 257 were active participants, 452 were retired or separated from service and receiving benefits, and 110 were retired or separated from service and entitled to future benefits. Funding & Investment Policies The law requires that every pension plan have a procedure for establishing a funding policy to carry out the plan objectives. A funding policy relates to the level of contributions needed to pay for benefits promised under the plan currently and over the years. The funding policy of the Plan is to make contributions in accordance with the existing Collective Bargaining Agreement, but in no event less than the minimum amount annually as required by law. Once money is contributed to the Plan, the money is invested by plan officials called fiduciaries. Specific investments are made in accordance with the Plan’s investment policy. Generally speaking, an investment policy is a written statement that provides the fiduciaries who are responsible for plan investments with guidelines or general instructions concerning various types or categories of investment management decisions. The investment policy of the Plan is to provide a source of retirement income for its participants and beneficiaries while attaining an annual investment return of 6 percent. To preserve capital, some of the assets are invested in a general account with Connecticut General Life Insurance Company that pays a guaranteed rate of interest each year. Approximately 40 percent of the remainder of the Plan’s assets is invested in equity securities with the balance invested in fixed income securities. In accordance with the Plan’s investment policy, the Plan’s assets were allocated among the following categories of investments, as of the end of the Plan Year. These allocations are percentages of total assets: Employer Securities 0 Employer real property 0 16. Buildings and other property used in plan operation 0 17. Other 0 Critical or Endangered Status Under federal pension law a plan generally will be considered to be in “endangered” status if, at the beginning of the plan year, the funded percentage of the plan is less than 80 percent or in “critical” status if the percentage is less than 65 percent (other factors may also apply). If a pension plan enters endangered status, the trustees of the plan are required to adopt a funding improvement plan. Similarly, if a pension plan enters critical status, the trustees of the plan are required to adopt a rehabilitation plan. Rehabilitation and funding improvement plans establish steps and benchmarks for pension plans to improve their funding status over a specified period of time. The Plan was not in endangered or critical status in the Plan Year. Right to Request a Copy of the Annual Report A pension plan is required to file with the U.S. Department of Labor an annual report (i.e., Form 5500) containing financial and other information about the plan. Copies of the annual report are available from the U.S. Department of Labor, Employee Benefits Security Administration’s Public Disclosure Room at 200 Constitution Avenue, NW, Room N-1513, Washington, DC 20210, or by calling (202) 693-8673. Or, you may obtain a copy of the Plan’s annual report by making a written request to the plan administrator. Summary of Rules Governing Plans in Reorganization and Insolvent Plans Federal law has a number of special rules that apply to financially troubled multiemployer plans. Under so-called “plan reorganization rules,” a plan with adverse financial experience may need to increase required contributions and may, under certain circumstances, reduce benefits that are not eligible for the PBGC’s guarantee (generally, benefits that have been in effect for less than 60 months). If a plan is in reorganization status, it must provide notification that the plan is in reorganization status and that, if contributions are not increased, accrued benefits under the plan may be reduced or an excise tax may be imposed (or both). The law requires the plan to furnish this notification to each contributing employer and the labor organization. Despite the special plan reorganization rules, a plan in reorganization nevertheless could become insolvent. A plan is insolvent for a plan year if its available financial resources are not sufficient to pay benefits when due for the plan year. An insolvent plan must reduce benefit payments to the highest level that can be paid from the plan’s available financial resources. If such resources are not enough to pay benefits at a level specified by law (see Benefit Payments Guaranteed by the PBGC, below), the plan must apply to the PBGC for financial assistance. The PBGC, by law, will loan the plan the amount necessary to pay benefits at the guaranteed level. Reduced benefits may be restored if the plan’s financial condition improves. A plan that becomes insolvent must provide prompt notification of the insolvency to participants and beneficiaries, contributing employers, labor unions representing participants, and PBGC. In addition, participants and beneficiaries also must receive information regarding whether, and how, their benefits will be reduced or affected as a result of the insolvency, including loss of a lump sum option. This information will be provided for each year the plan is insolvent. Benefit Payments Guaranteed by the PBGC The maximum benefit that the PBGC guarantees is set by law. Only vested benefits are guaranteed. Specifically, the PBGC guarantees a monthly benefit payment equal to 100 percent of the first $11 of the Plan’s monthly benefit accrual rate, plus 75 percent of the next $33 of the accrual rate, times each year of credited service. The PBGC’s maximum guarantee, therefore, is $35.75 per month times a participant’s years of credited service. Example 1: If a participant with 10 years of credited service has an accrued monthly benefit of $500, the accrual rate for purposes of determining the PBGC guarantee would be determined by dividing the monthly benefit by the participant’s years of service ($500/10), which equals $50. The guaranteed amount for a $50 monthly accrual rate is equal to the sum of $11 plus $24.75 (.75 x $33), or $35.75. Thus, the participant’s guaranteed monthly benefit is $357.50 ($35.75 x 10). Percentage Asset Allocations Example 2: If the participant in Example 1 has an accrued monthly benefit of $200, the accrual 3 1. Interest-bearing cash rate for purposes of determining the guarantee would be $20 (or $200/10). The guaranteed amount 21 2. U.S. Government securities for a $20 monthly accrual rate is equal to the sum of $11 plus $6.75 (.75 x $9), or $17.75. Thus, the 3. Corporate debt instruments (other than employer securities): 0 participant’s guaranteed monthly benefit would be $177.50 ($17.75 x 10). The PBGC guarantees pension benefits payable at normal retirement age and some early rePreferred 17 tirement benefits. In calculating a person’s monthly payment, the PBGC will disregard any benefit All other 0 increases that were made under the plan within 60 months before the earlier of the plan’s termina4. Corporate stocks (other than employer securities): tion or insolvency (or benefits that were in effect for less than 60 months at the time of termination Preferred 0 or insolvency). Similarly, the PBGC does not guarantee pre-retirement death benefits to a spouse or All other 24 beneficiary (e.g., a qualified pre-retirement survivor annuity) if the participant dies after the plan termi5. Partnership/joint venture interests 0 nates, benefits above the normal retirement benefit, disability benefits not in pay status, or non-pension 6. Real estate (other than employer real property) 0 0 7. Loans (other than to participants) benefits, such as health insurance, life insurance, death benefits, vacation pay, or severance pay. 8. Participant loans 0 Where to Get More Information 9. Value of interest in common/collective trusts 0 For more information about this notice, you may contact the office of the Plan Administrator at: 10. Value of interest in pooled separate accounts 0 Margaret Bowen, Plan Administrator, (301) 899-0675, or by writing to: Plan Administrator, 5201 Auth 0 11. Value of interest in master trust investment accounts Way, Camp Springs, Maryland 20746. 12. Value of interest in 103-12 investment entities 0 For identification purposes, the official plan number is 001 and the plan sponsor’s employer identifi13. Value of interest in registered investment companies (e.g., mutual funds) 0 cation number or “EIN” is 51-6097856. For more information about the PBGC and benefit guarantees, 14. Value of funds held in insurance co. general account (unallocated contracts) 35 go to PBGC’s website, www.pbgc.gov. 15. Employer-related investments: Summary Annual Report for SIU Pacific District Supplemental Benefits Fund, Inc. This is a summary of the annual report of the SIU Pacific District Supplemental Benefits Fund, Inc., EIN 94-1431246 for the year ended July 31, 2011. The annual report has been filed with the Employee Benefits Security Administration, as required under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA). Benefits under the Plan are provided by the SIU Pacific District Supplemental Benefits Fund, Inc., a Trust Fund. Basic Financial Statement The value of plan assets, after subtracting liabilities of the plan, was $(270,015) as of July 31, 2011, compared to $94,919 as of August 1, 2010. During the plan year the plan experienced a decrease in its net assets of $364,934. This decrease includes unrealized appreciation or depreciation in the value of plan assets; that is, the difference between the value of the plan’s assets at the end of the year and the value of the assets at the beginning of the year or the cost of assets acquired during the year. During the plan year, the plan had total income of $8,520,451, which included employer contributions of $8,509,377, realized losses of $1,810 from the sale of assets, and earnings from investments of $12,844. Plan expenses were $8,885,385. These expenses included $408,878 in administrative expenses and $8,476,507 in benefits paid to participants. Your Rights to Additional Information You have the right to receive a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, on request. The items listed below are included in that report: n An accountant’s report; May 2012 11757_May_Log.indd 9 n Financial information and information on payments to service providers; n Assets held for investment; and n Transactions in excess of 5 percent of plan assets. To obtain a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, write or call the office of SIU Pacific District Supplemental Benefits Fund, Inc., at 730 Harrison Street, Suite 400, San Francisco, CA 94107, telephone number (415) 764-4990. The charge to cover copying costs will be $4.25 for the full annual report, or $0.25 per page for any part thereof. You also have the right to receive from the plan administrator, on request and at no charge, a statement of the assets and liabilities of the plan and accompanying notes, or a statement of income and expenses of the plan and accompanying notes, or both. If you request a copy of the full annual report from the plan administrator, these two statements and accompanying notes will be included as part of that report. The charge to cover copying costs given above does not include a charge for the copying of these portions of the report because these portions are furnished without charge. You also have the legally protected right to examine the annual report at the main office of the plan at 730 Harrison Street, Suite 400, San Francisco, CA 94107, and at the U. S. Department of Labor in Washington, DC, or to obtain a copy from the U. S. Department of Labor upon payment of copying costs. Requests to the Department should be addressed to Public Disclosure Room, Room N1513, Employee Benefits Security Administration, U.S. Department of Labor, 200 Constitution Avenue, N. W., Washington, D.C. 20210. Notice COBRA Continuation Coverage The Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan (SHBP) would like to notify you of the right to elect to purchase continuation of health coverage if you lose coverage, or experience a reduction in coverage due to certain qualifying events. This continuation of coverage is known as COBRA. Generally, if you are the employee, you will be eligible to purchase COBRA coverage for a certain period of time if you lost coverage because you did not have enough days of covered employment (unless the job was lost due to gross misconduct). If you are the family member of a covered employee, you may also elect COBRA for a certain period of time when the employee loses coverage; or if you are going to lose coverage because of a divorce or the death of the employee; or in the case of a child of an employee, the child reaches an age at which the Plan no longer considers him or her to be a “dependent child.” In the case of a divorce or the death of an employee, you must notify the Plan within 60 days of the divorce or death in order to be eligible to purchase continuation coverage. If you do not notify the Plan in a timely manner, you may not be eligible to receive further coverage. If you are the spouse or dependent child of an employee, you may also elect COBRA if you experience a reduction in coverage when the employee retires. When you retire, if you were eligible for benefits from the SHBP at the time of your retirement, you will be eligible to purchase COBRA continuation coverage for yourself and/or your family members, even if you are eligible for retiree health benefits. This will enable you and/ or your family to continue to receive the same level of benefits that you had prior to your retirement for a certain period of time. If you meet the eligibility requirements for retiree health benefits, you will begin to receive those benefits when the COBRA period ends. For more information about continuation coverage rights under COBRA, please refer to the Plan’s “Guide to Your Benefits.” The guide is also available in PDF format on the SIU web site, www.seafarers.org, under “Member BenefitsSeafarers Benefit Plans-Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan.” If you have questions regarding this notice or COBRA, contact the Plan at 1 (800) 252-4674. Seafarers LOG 9 4/26/2012 7:03:20 PM �ANNUAL FUNDING NOTICE - - SEAFARERS PENSION PLAN 1. Introduction This notice includes important information about the funding status of your pension plan (“the Plan”) and general information about the benefit payments guaranteed by the Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation (“PBGC”), a federal insurance agency. All traditional pension plans (called “defined benefit pension plans”) must provide this notice every year regardless of their funding status. This notice does not mean that the Plan is terminating. It is provided for informational purposes and you are not required to respond in any way. This notice is for the plan year beginning January 1, 2011 and ending December 31, 2011 (“Plan Year”). 2. How Well-Funded Is Your Plan Under federal law, the plan must report how well it is funded by using a measure called the “funded percentage.” This percentage is obtained by dividing the Plan’s assets by its liabilities on the Valuation Date for the plan year. In general, the higher the percentage, the better funded the plan. Your Plan’s funded percentage for the Plan Year and each of the two preceding plan years is set forth in the chart below, along with a statement of the value of the Plan’s assets and liabilities for the same period. Funded Percentage 2011 2010 2009 January 1, 2011 January 1, 2010 January 1, 2009 Valuation Date Funded Percentage 121.2%1 110.1% 106.1% $1,013,288,083 $910,293,605 $798,341,351 Value of Assets Value of Liabilities $836,014,907 $826,992,528 $752,536,506 3. Year-End Fair Market Value of Assets The asset values in the chart above are measured as of the Valuation Date for the plan year and are market values. Because market values can fluctuate daily based on factors in the marketplace, such as changes in the stock market, pension law allows plans to use actuarial values that are designed to smooth out those fluctuations for funding purposes. The asset values below are market values and are measured as of the last day of the plan year, rather than as of the Valuation Date. Use of the market value of assets for the actuarial value used in the above chart shows a clearer picture of a plan’s funded status as of the Valuation Date. The fair market value of the Plan’s assets as of the last day of the Plan Year and each of the two preceding plan years is shown in the following table (2011 is not audited): December 31,2011 December 31, 2010 December 31, 2009 $1,050,000,000 $1,013,288,083 $910,293,605 Fair Market Value of Assets 4. Critical or endangered Status Under federal pension law a plan generally will be considered to be in “endangered” status if, at the beginning of the plan year, the funded percentage of the plan is less than 80 percent or in “critical” status if the percentage is less than 65 percent (other factors may also apply). If a pension plan enters endangered status, the trustees of the plan are required to adopt a funding improvement plan. Similarly, if a pension plan enters critical status, the trustees of the plan are required to adopt a rehabilitation plan. Rehabilitation and funding improvement plans establish steps and benchmarks for pension plans to improve their funding status over a specified period of time. The Plan was not in endangered or critical status in the Plan Year. 5. Participation Information The total number of participants in the Plan as of the Plan’s valuation date was 21,677. Of this number, 8,016 were active participants, 8,741 were retired or separated from service and receiving benefits, and 4,920 were retired or separated from service and entitled to future benefits. 6. Funding & Investment Policies (a) Every pension plan must have a procedure for establishing a funding policy to carry out plan objectives. A funding policy relates to the level of assets needed to pay for benefits promised under the plan currently and over the years. The funding policy of the Plan is to provide benefits from contributions by signatory employers under the terms of collective bargaining agreements between the Seafarers International Union, Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU and the employers. The Plan may receive the portion of the employers’ contributions made to the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan which the Trustees determine is necessary to provide for pension benefits based on the recommendation of the Plan’s Actuary. (b) Investment Policies Investment objectives: Assets of the Plan shall be invested with sufficient diversification so as to minimize the risk of large losses unless it is clearly prudent under the then current circumstances not to do so. Plan assets shall be invested in a manner consistent with the fiduciary standards of ERISA and supporting regulations, and all transactions will be undertaken on behalf of the Plan in the sole interest of Plan participants and beneficiaries. Assets of the Plan shall be invested to maintain sufficient liquidity to meet benefit payment obligations and other Plan expenses. Investment Guidelines: Each Investment Manager shall be a bank (trust company), insurance company, or a registered investment advisor under the Investment Advisers Act of 1940. The Investment Managers shall acknowledge in writing that it is a fiduciary of the Plan within the meaning of Section 3(21)(A) of Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974, as amended (“ERISA”) and an “investment manager” within the meaning of Section 3(38) of ERISA. Full discretion is granted to each Investment Manager with regard to the sector and security selection and the timing of any transactions, provided that such discretion shall always be exercised in accordance with each Investment Manager’s fiduciary responsibilities under ERISA. (c) Once money is contributed to the Plan, the money is invested by plan officials called fiduciaries, who make specific investments in accordance with the Plan’s investment policy. Generally speaking, an investment policy is a written statement that provides the fiduciaries that are responsible for plan investments with guidelines or general instructions concerning investment management decisions. The investment policy of the Seafarers Pension Plan is primarily a balanced portfolio of equity, fixed income, and cash equivalent securities. Equities consist of common stocks, preferred stocks, and convertible securities. The total equity exposure for the total managed account should not exceed 55 percent for a prolonged period of time. The portfolios are diversified into 10 or 15 industry sectors and hold in excess of 50 individual issues. No issue exceeds 3.5 percent of the portfolio at cost. The fixed income portion of the portfolio consists of: n U.S. Government and Agency Securities n Commercial Paper n Corporate Bonds n Traditional Non-High Leverage n Mortgage and Asset backed Securities These securities must be rated Investment Grade at time of purchase. Summary Annual Report For SIU Pacific District Seafarers Medical Center Fund This is a summary of the annual report of the SIU Pacific District Seafarers Medical Center Fund, EIN 94-2430964 for the year ended June 30, 2011. The annual report has been filed with the Department of Labor, as required under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA). Benefits under the plan are provided by the SIU Pacific District Seafarers Medical Center Fund, a trust fund. Basic Financial Statement The value of plan assets, after subtracting liabilities of the plan, was $(78,131) as of June 30, 2011, compared to $(124,844) as of July 01, 2010. During the plan year the plan experienced an increase in its net assets of $46,713. During the plan year, the 10 Seafarers LOG 11757_May_Log.indd 10 (d) Under the Plan’s investment policy, the Plan’s assets were allocated among the following categories of investments, as of the end of the Plan Year. These allocations are percentages of total assets: Asset Allocations Percentage 1. Cash (Interest-bearing and non-interest bearing) 1 2. U.S. Government securities 22 3. Corporate debt instruments (other than employer securities): Preferred 26 All other 0 4. Corporate stocks (other than employer securities): Preferred 0 Common 26 5. Partnership/joint venture interests 0 1 6. Real estate (other than employer real property) 7. Loans (other than to participants) 0 0 8. Participants loans 9. Value of interest in common/collective trusts 6 0 10. Value of interest in pooled separate accounts 11. Value of interest in master trust investment accounts 0 0 12. Value of interest in 103-12 investment entities 13. Value of interest in registered investment companies (e.g., mutual funds) 18 0 14. Value of funds held in insurance co. general account (unallocated contracts) 15. Employer-related investments: Employer Securities 0 Employer real property 0 0 16. Buildings and other property 17. Other 0 (e) For information about the plan’s investment in any of the following type of investments as described in the chart above – common/collective trusts, pooled separate accounts, master trust investment accounts, or 103-12 investment entities, contact: Margaret Bowen, Plan Administrator, at 301-899-0675, or by writing to: Plan Administrator, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, Maryland 20746 7. Right to Request a Copy of the Annual Report A pension plan is required to file with the US Department of Labor an annual report called the Form 5500 that contains financial and other information about the plan. Copies of the annual report are available from the US Department of Labor, Employee Benefits Security Administration’s Public Disclosure Room at 200 Constitution Avenue, NW, Room N-1513, Washington, DC 20210, or by calling 202.693.8673. For 2009 and subsequent plan years, you may obtain an electronic copy of the plan’s annual report by going to www.efast.dol.gov and using the Form 5500 search function. Or you may obtain a copy of the Plan’s annual report by making a written request to the plan administrator. Individual information, such as the amount of your accrued benefit under the plan, is not contained in the annual report. If you are seeking information regarding your benefits under the plan, contact the plan administrator identified below under “Where To Get More Information.” 8. Summary of Rules Governing Plans in Reorganization and Insolvent Plans Federal law has a number of special rules that apply to financially troubled multiemployer plans. The plan administrator is required by law to include a summary of these rules in the annual funding notice. Under socalled “plan reorganization rules,” a plan with adverse financial experience may need to increase required contributions and may, under certain circumstances, reduce benefits that are not eligible for the PBGC’s guarantee (generally, benefits that have been in effect for less than 60 months).  If a plan is in reorganization status, it must provide notification that the plan is in reorganization status and that, if contributions are not increased, accrued benefits under the plan may be reduced or an excise tax may be imposed (or both). The plan is required to furnish this notification to each contributing employer and the labor organization. Despite these special plan reorganization rules, a plan in reorganization could become insolvent. A plan is insolvent for a plan year if its available financial resources are not sufficient to pay benefits when due for that plan year. An insolvent plan must reduce benefit payments to the highest level that can be paid from the plan’s available resources. If such resources are not enough to pay benefits at the level specified by law (see “Benefit Payments Guaranteed by the PBGC”, below), the plan must apply to the PBGC for financial assistance. The PBGC will loan the plan the amount necessary to pay benefits at the guaranteed level. Reduced benefits may be restored if the plan’s financial condition improves. A plan that becomes insolvent must provide prompt notice of its status to participants and beneficiaries, contributing employers, labor unions representing participants, and PBGC. In addition, participants and beneficiaries also must receive information regarding whether, and how, their benefits will be reduced or affected, including loss of a lump sum option. This information will be provided for each year the plan is insolvent. 9. Benefit Payments Guaranteed by the PBGC The maximum benefit that the PBGC guarantees is set by law. Only benefits that you have earned a right to receive and that cannot be forfeited (called vested benefits) are guaranteed. Specifically, the PBGC guarantees a monthly benefit payment equal to 100 percent of the first $11 of the Plan’s monthly benefit accrual rate, plus 75 percent of the next $33 of the accrual rate, times each year of credited service. The PBGC’s maximum guarantee, therefore, is $35.75 per month times a participant’s years of credited service. Example 1: If a participant with 10 years of credited service has an accrued monthly benefit of $500, the accrual rate for purposes of determining the PBGC guarantee would be determined by dividing the monthly benefit by the participant’s years of service ($500/10), which equals $50. The guaranteed amount for a $50 monthly accrual rate is equal to the sum of $11 plus $24.75 (.75 x $33), or $35.75. Thus, the participant’s guaranteed monthly benefit is $357.50 ($35.75 x 10). Example 2: If the participant in Example 1 has an accrued monthly benefit of $200, the accrual rate for purposes of determining the guarantee would be $20 (or $200/10). The guaranteed amount for a $20 monthly accrual rate is equal to the sum of $11 plus $6.75 (.75 x $9), or $17.75. Thus, the participant’s guaranteed monthly benefit would be $177.50 ($17.75 x 10). The PBGC guarantees pension benefits payable at normal retirement age and some early retirement benefits. In calculating a person’s monthly payment, the PBGC will disregard any benefit increases that were made under the plan within 60 months before the earlier of the plan’s termination or insolvency (or benefits that were in effect for less than 60 months at the time of termination or insolvency). Similarly, the PBGC does not guarantee pre-retirement death benefits to a spouse or beneficiary (e.g., a qualified pre-retirement survivor annuity) if the participant dies after the plan terminates, benefits above the normal retirement benefit, disability benefits not in pay status, or non-pension benefits, such as health insurance, life insurance, death benefits, vacation pay, or severance pay. 10. Where to Get More Information For more information about this notice, or for a statement of your estimated monthly pension benefit payable at retirement, you may contact the Board of Trustees, or the Administrator, at 301-899-0675 or by writing to: Plan Administrator, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746 For identification purposes, the official plan number is 001 and the plan sponsor’s employer identification number or “EIN” is 13-6100329 for Seafarers Pension Plan. For more information about the PBGC, go to PBGC’s website, www.pbgc.gov. plan had total income of $586,299, including employer contributions of $581,925, earnings from investments of $191 and other income of $4,183. Plan expenses were $539,586. These expenses included $133,477 in administrative expenses, and $406,109 in benefits paid to participants and beneficiaries. Your Rights to Additional Information You have the right to receive a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, on request. The items listed below are included in that report: n An accountant’s report; n Financial information and information on payments to service providers; and n Assets held for investment. To obtain a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, write or call the office of SIU Pacific District Seafarers Medical Center Fund, 730 Harrison St., Suite 400, San Francisco, CA 94107, (415) 392-3611. The charge to cover copying costs will be $2 for the full annual report, or $.25 per page for any part thereof. You also have the right to receive from the plan administrator, on request and at no charge, a statement of the assets and liabilities of the plan and accompanying notes, or a statement of income and expenses of the plan and accompanying notes, or both. If you request a copy of the full annual report from the plan administrator, these two statements and accompanying notes will be included as part of that report. The charge to cover copying costs given above does not include a charge for the copying of these portions of the report because these portions are furnished without charge. You also have the legally protected right to examine the annual report at the main office of the plan, at 730 Harrison Street, Suite 400, San Francisco, CA 94107, and at the U.S. Department of Labor in Washington, DC or to obtain a copy from the U.S. Department of Labor upon payment of copying costs. Requests to the Department should be addressed to: Public Disclosure Room, N-1513, Employee Benefits Security Administration, U.S. Department of Labor, 200 Constitution Avenue, N.W., Washington, DC 20210. May 2012 4/26/2012 7:03:21 PM �5/12 May 2012 11757_May_Log.indd 11 Seafarers LOG 11 4/26/2012 7:03:24 PM �ATC Attends Safety Training at Paul Hall Center Nineteen Seafarers (many of whom are shown in the pictures appearing on these two pages) from the SIU-contracted Alaska Tanker Company (ATC) recently participated in a five-day Safety Leadership and Training Conference at the union-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. Conducted March 19-23, the seminar featured classroom as well as hands-on refresher instruction in basic safety training (BST), Hazardous Waste Operations and Emergency Response, and culinary preparation. Included in the BST module were: fire prevention and firefighting, personal safety and responsibilities, first aid and personal survival. In addition to the foregoing elements, the symposium also featured a joint ATC/SIU safety discussion. Hosted by SIU President Michael Sacco and ATC President Anil Mathur, this segment of the conference was four hours in duration 12 Seafarers LOG 11757_May_Log.indd 12 and provided participants the opportunity to discuss the hazards and risks of their profession and measures that could be implemented to minimize and eliminate them. “Overall, I thought the training was great,” said Bosun Anthony Sabatini, who sails aboard ATC’s Explorer. “I had not been to the school in about 10 years, so the instruction provided me with a fresh taste of some of the things that I had learned before. “I think the other people who attended the conference felt the same way,” he continued. “It was a wonderful experience and I definitely benefitted from it.” ATC President Mathur stated, “I was very pleased with the quality of the training, the facilities at Piney Point, and the SIU’s systems and processes. The course attendees have very positive feedback from the training they received. This is testimony of the excellent leadership the SIU provides.” Bill Cole, ATC’s director of labor relations, said the school is an important tool that helps the company’s marine keep up with the industry’s ever-changing training requirements. “It’s great to have the Paul Hall Center available to help us maintain the best-trained crews in the world,” he noted. Those who took part in the training represented each of the three shipboard departments and hailed from four ATCoperated vessels: the Explorer, Legend, Frontier and Navigator. In addition to Sabatini, participants included: Bosun Mike Moore; ABs Brendan O’Brien, Ramiro Rubio, Cod Russell, Domingo Cazon, Kevin Kellum, Gavin Scott, Ste ven Blair, Manuel Enrico and Timothy Vaefaga; QMEDs Tristan Brand, Odilio Evora, AlJohn Fernandez and Leland Peterson; DEU Alvin Alcasid; Stewards Jeff Smith and Just Self; and Cook Craig Lundberg. May 2012 4/26/2012 7:03:29 PM �enter ions, said the company’s mariners training requirenter available to the world,” he resented each of d from four ATCrontier and Naviincluded: Bosun miro Rubio, Coda , Gavin Scott, SteVaefaga; QMEDs ernandez and Leards Jeff Smith . May 2012 11757_May_Log.indd 13 Seafarers LOG 13 4/26/2012 7:03:38 PM �Recollections from the Murmansk Run Editor’s note: The October and November 2011 and March 2012 editions of the Seafarers LOG featured the first three installments of an occasional series written by retired mariner Ed Woods, who first shipped out at age 16, during World War II. LOG readers were introduced to Woods’ writing when he shared a separate story that was published off and on from September 2010 to July 2011. “Recollections from the Murmansk Run” is a combination of Woods relaying the accounts of an old shipmate and filling in the blanks “with what I think could have taken place, based on my own war-time experiences at sea. For this reason, I call this narrative a non-fiction novel.” The names of the main character (Johnny Johnston) and his vessels are fictional. The World War II convoys to the Russian ports of Murmansk and Archangel were dangerous and often deadly. Dozens of Americanflag ships were sunk on the Murmansk Run, including many SIU-crewed vessels. Altogether, it is believed that 57 Allied ships were lost in convoys to north Russia. The most recent installment ended in 1944 as Johnston and his shipmates aboard the S/S John Henry were preparing to attempt to sail from an icy group of islands called Franz Josef Land. The John Henry crew spent the next two days preparing for our voyage to Spitsbergen. A stronger shed was built around the emergency steering wheel area, giving the helmsman better protection from the weather. We knew that the German navy patrolled much of the Barents Sea and we would be in dangerous waters for the entire voyage. The lookouts were doubled and went on a four-on and a four-off schedule. The guns were at the ready at all times. We weighed anchor and began our push through the ice, stopping twice to allow the big guns to blast a path to open water. Within a few hours, we were in the open seas and on our way. It took us five full days of sailing in rough seas to reach our destination, the main island of Spitsbergen. The lookouts were pleased to report that two small boats, one with the Norwegian flag and one with the British Union Jack, were heading out to greet us. Captain Behlmer had two American flags on view. He didn’t want anyone to mistake us for an enemy. The British boat reached us first and an officer called out asking, “Who are you and what are you doing here?” Captain Behlmer identified our ship and said we were in need of repairs and fresh supplies. The officer, who identified himself as Major Woodrow, said for us to follow the Norwegian boat that would lead us to a safe anchorage. Captain Olsen, a Norwegian who was in charge of governing the island, came aboard and introduced himself. He also managed the coal and whaling operations and was the Allies’ liaison with a large group of Russian coal miners who lived and worked on the other side of the island. That night we had our first good meal in many weeks. A lighter came along side and sent up boxes and baskets full of fresh vegetables. Fresh in the sense that they weren’t frozen: potatoes, carrots, and cabbages. They also sent up two frozen reindeer carcasses and the following day we had venison steaks. A most welcome meal and a change from the seal meat and fish diet we had lived on at Franz Josef. Captain Behlmer and our chief engineer went ashore and asked to speak with Nels Johnson, the head shipwright. Like many of the Norwegians they were to meet, Johnson spoke reasonably good English. They explained to Johnson what was needed to get the John Henry repaired. He offered to return with them to our ship and see for himself what was needed and what he could provide in the way of repairs. “We have a small but efficient ship repair yard on our island.” The dry dock they used for maintaining their fishing and whaling boats was not large enough to accommodate Liberty-size ships, such as the John Henry. The next day, however, a large barge came along side loaded with all types of machinery: drill presses, lathes, saws, assorted pieces of wood, metal stock and a gang of workers. The group started the repair work immediately. Later, the British officer, Major Woodrow, whom we had first met when we entered the harbor, came aboard. He wanted to discuss our cargo. He told Captain Behlmer that he knew 14 Seafarers LOG 11757_May_Log_X.indd 14 that we were loaded with bombs, grenades, assorted ammunition and various weapons, both small and big, and asked what we intended to do with it. Captain Behlmer said it was not for him to decide. The John Henry was in service to the United States military and only someone with clear-cut authority could order how and where it was to be offloaded. He told Major Woodrow that the cargo had been assigned to the Russian government and was originally destined to be taken to Murmansk. The major replied, “Well now, sir, that is all well and good; however, you are now in Spitsbergen without an armed escort; short of fuel and other necessary supplies. Please tell me how do you expect to reach Murmansk?” “I’ll be completely honest with you, major. I don’t know. You are correct. We are very low on food and our fuel tanks are almost empty. If the good people here in Spitsbergen are able to repair my ship, I hope to be able to obtain sufficient fuel from the supply here on the island and make my way back to England. I would never consider going on to Murmansk alone without naval escorts. However, I want you to know something. If I was to ask my crew to sail with me unescorted in order to bring these vital supplies to our Russian allies, they would agree to the voyage without question.” “The reason I asked you about your cargo, captain, is that we could put it to good use here if or when the Germans decide to continue their conquest of Norway by occupying these northern islands. Up to now, they have stayed away due to the rather large British naval presence in the nearby waters. However, our intelligence sources tell us that much of our naval force has left the area to be put to better use elsewhere. The Germans know this and would like nothing better than to use tain Behlmer had us stand lookout watches with them. I must say, though, that our captain was more than fair in keeping the crew up to date with his plans. He was right; the crew would willingly do whatever was asked of them. I was a history buff and when I heard that that Roald Amundsen’s nephew was here on the island, I wanted to meet him. The nephew of one of the greatest explorers of the 20th century. The very man who was first to reach the South Pole and plant the Norwegian flag there and who later became the first to fly over the North Pole in a dirigible. I had to get ashore and meet Ron Amundsen. As good fortune would have it, the next day, our entire crew was invited to a buffet and movie show that evening at the Lutheran Church Hall in town. Nels Johnson sent a barge out to carry us ashore. A few of the older men volunteered to stay aboard and stand watch. I found it hard to believe that less than a year ago, I was in high school in New York City without any idea of ever being in a place like Spitsbergen in the Barents Sea. Now I was about to meet the nephew of the most famous explorer of the century. Upon our arrival at the meeting hall, we were treated to a delicious Scandinavian buffet prepared by the Christian Ladies’ Club. It was the best meal I had in a long time. I never knew so many dishes made from fish could taste so good. Almost all the Norwegians, both the men and women, spoke a limited amount of English when talking with us but subtly changed to Norwegian when talking to each other. Major Woodrow was there and using a microphone asked for our attention and then introduced us to our hosts and their families. They SIU-crewed ships delivered cargo to the Russian port of Murmansk during WWII. This AP photo shows war supplies being unloaded there in June 1942. Spitsbergen’s air strip, as small as it is, to patrol these northern routes to Russia and also to get their hands on our valuable coal deposits. Therefore, I would like to invite you and your officers to a dinner at my home tonight, next to my headquarters. I will also invite Nels Johnson and Ron Amundsen, our chief intelligence officer. After dinner, we can have a conference, exchange ideas, make suggestions and decide what actions we should next take. The John Henry sitting here in the harbor is not doing anyone any good. It is certainly not helping the war effort. By the way, you will enjoy meeting Ron Amundsen; he’s Roald Amundsen’s nephew. Ron lives here yearround on the island, it’s his home. He was here in 1926, when his Uncle Roald took off from here in a dirigible with two other explorers and flew over the North Pole and landed in Alaska. You’ll enjoy Ron’s conversation and I’m confident he will have some good suggestions as to our next step.” I was getting more news than usual about what was taking place on the John Henry. Being an engine room wiper, a low man in the pecking order on most ships, meant that I would be one of the last guys to know what was going on. However, the conversations between the men from the island and Behlmer with his officers took place on the bridge. There was always at least one able-bodied seaman standing watch in the area and he was privy to all that was discussed. It didn’t take him long to pass on the latest news to the crew in the mess hall. Larry and I had also become good friends with the deckhands when Cap- invited us to sit down and watch a movie. It was an old American Western starring John Wayne. The characters spoke in English with Norwegian captions on the bottom of the screen. When the movie ended, we were invited back to the main hall for dessert and coffee. It was then that I met Ron Amundsen and got him to talk about his famous uncle. He told me things that I had never heard before. For one, his uncle did not get along with one of the other explorers, the Italian Umberto Nobile. Nobile was an engineer and had himself built the dirigible under the auspices of his Italian government. Yet, two years later in 1928, Nobile on another flight in the same airship became lost and crashed in the northern wilderness. Amundsen obtained a plane and was among the first to volunteer to search for him. Nobile was eventually found alive but Amundsen’s plane crashed and he lost his life. Amundsen’s list of accomplishments as an explorer of both the northern and southern polar areas has never been equaled, more so when one considers the technological advances since his time. None of the crew could learn what took place at the previous night’s conference between our captain and the local authorities. In the past, we had pretty much known what was going on. This time it was different, as there were no rumors or any reports. What we did hear was that all of those present at the conference were sworn to secrecy. Two days later, a barge came along side and the deckhands were ordered to help the barge crew unload cargo. Nobody liked working with high explosives, especially the crew members who were not familiar with the correct procedures for handling it. When it was put on board in New York, the work was carried out by a special loading crew supplied by the United States Army. However, orders were orders and had to be obeyed. The deckhands did as they were told. I could see that they were uncomfortable with the assignment. It was then that we learned that Captain Behlmer had traded part of our cargo for fuel and food supplies. Later, we heard that he had been in touch by radio with the U.S. Navy offices in London and, after explaining his situation, was given permission to trade cargo for supplies. The word was out, once the repair work was finished and the bridge back in good order, we were to return to Scapa Flow, Scotland, to be reassigned. I heard that Captain Behlmer wanted to ask permission from the American authorities in England to unload the remainder of his cargo anywhere in the British Isles and then return to the States, to refit the John Henry, give the crew a well-earned leave to rest and load up with fresh cargo and start sailing again. It took another two weeks to complete the repair work to our bridge. Major Woodrow had arranged with the local Norwegian government to supply us with enough fuel and food for our return to Scapa Flow in exchange for the armament and ammunition we had given them. We weighed anchor and sailed out of the harbor on a dark moonless night. It was estimated that it would take about four days of good weather to reach Scapa Flow. We were alert to the serious U-boat menace in these waters. The Germans wanted to stop all deliveries of war supplies to Russia and knew that the Allies used these northern routes to reach Murmansk. Extra lookouts were maintained 24 hours a day. It was our second day out to sea; the weather was crisp but sunny and clear. We were in the mess hall having lunch when we heard shouting: “Torpedo! Torpedo!” The warning came too late, the tin fish hit us dead center and the John Henry immediately began to list. The ship appeared to jump into the air and trembled. I was thrown to the deck and hit my head on a table leg. I ignored the bleeding from the bruise, as it was obvious the good old John Henry was going down. The alarms kept sounding and there were cries of abandon ship. I raced to my lifeboat station where the deckhands were already in the process of swinging the lifeboat out on its davits. Someone called out, “Did you check the drain plug?” I immediately volunteered to check it and climbed into the boat. The bilge was dry and I quickly found and secured the plug. The chief mate, Mr. Smith, who was in charge of the boat station, told me to stay in the boat. Larry was also assigned to this station but was nowhere in sight. I asked in a loud voice, “Do any of you guys know where Larry is?” Nobody answered. The rest of crew climbed in the boat and we began lowering away. We had the oars out as soon as we hit the water and began to row away from the sinking ship as fast as possible. An oiler, who was along side of me, said, “Let’s get out of here as fast as we can. This thing still might blow up. Remember it’s full of ammo and all kinds of stuff like that.” Mr. Smith answered, “So far we have been lucky, the torpedo hit the empty cargo hold. If it had hit any of the other holds, we would be all in small pieces right now.” With that, the bosun, a real tough old guy, said, “Let us all say a prayer for deliverance from this tribulation,” and he began to pray aloud. He certainly surprised me. I had seen and heard him giving orders to the deckhands and never expected him to be religious and believe in prayer. I had heard, though, there were no atheists in lifeboats, especially in cold unknown waters. We watched as the John Henry disappeared beneath a field of debris and then, suddenly a submarine surfaced almost on top of us. A man called out in heavy accented English. “Identify yourself and answer my question or you will suffer the consequences.” I had no idea what he meant by “suffer the consequences.” How worse off could we be? The chief said, “It will best for me to answer him, they have their deck gun pointed right Continued on next page May 2012 4/27/2012 6:43:14 PM �Mariner Recalls WW II Events Continued from Page 14 at us.” He shouted, “We’re the steamship John Henry out of New York. We were bound out from Scotland when we met up with you. Our holds were filled with food and other living necessities to be delivered to Spitsbergen.” The German officer replied, “Sorry we had to do what we did, but you know, that’s war, isn’t it? I have nothing to offer you other than to say try to sail south. You will soon hit land and find the ocean water a little warmer. Good luck.” Mr. Smith called out to the other boats and suggested that we attempt to stay together. The weather, however, suddenly changed and a storm came up. When it finally cleared, the other boats were nowhere in sight. We were alone, north of the Arctic Circle, on the vast empty Norwegian Sea. There were 10 cold, frightened but determined men in the boat. “I know we’ll get out of this,” was my first thought. Under the direction of the chief and the bosun, we rigged a sail out of the canvas we located in the lifeboat’s small hatch. The chief said that the last time he was in the wheelhouse and looked over the charts, we were about 100 miles north of an island called Jan Mayen. He figured that if we kept a southern course we might be lucky and hit the little bit of land head on. In the meantime, we would ration our water and food supply. In our lifeboat, there were two tanks of drinking water and an assortment of canned food. There was also a supply of a pemmican-like mix that proved to be a saving factor. The lifeboat also had an emergency kit full of useful items. For one, there was a small but well-made compass that the chief immediately put to use. He told the bosun to take the rudder and four of us to man the oars. We had a spray curtain mounted at the bow and we began to take turns sitting under it. It wasn’t much but it did keep us dry and out of the wind. None of us had enough clothes with us and we all regretted not taking the time to get heavy winter gear out of our lockers before abandoning the ship. The chief heard our comments and asked, “Are you crazy? Do you realize how fast the John Henry went down? If any of you had taken the time to go down to your lockers, you could well be aboard the ship right now, this very moment, at the bottom of the ocean. No, we’re cold but alive and if we stick together, we’ll get through this safely.” With this, the bosun cried out, “The good Lord put us here and the good Lord will get us out. Amen.” A few of the sailors replied, “Amen to that.” Personal Charles O’Brien, my uncle, joined the U.S. Merchant Marine in the 1920s. He passed away in Galveston, Texas in 1960. I’d appreciate any information anyone could provide regarding his life from 1920-1960; especially about his career and any known family members. Please feel free to contact me at fanmm28@comcast.net. June & July Membership Meetings Piney Point.....................................Monday: June 4, July 2 Algonac.............................................Friday: June 8, July 6 Baltimore......................................Thursday: June 7, July 5 Guam........................................Thursday: June 21, July 19 Honolulu........................................Friday: June 15, July 13 Houston.........................................Monday: June 11, July 9 Jacksonville..................................Thursday: June 7, July 5 Joliet........................................ Thursday: June 14, July 12 Dispatchers’ Report for Deep Sea March 16, 2012 - April 15, 2012 Port Total Registered All Groups A B C Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS Deck Department 9 2 0 12 7 0 0 10 10 0 4 1 0 0 0 0 0 4 2 0 4 7 1 2 6 0 1 10 11 2 15 14 1 16 9 1 6 25 28 1 5 5 0 2 2 0 0 5 6 0 7 3 4 9 1 0 4 15 11 6 46 15 3 33 7 0 18 96 34 11 29 26 1 17 15 0 12 53 53 5 3 5 0 4 5 1 1 1 7 0 7 6 1 3 0 0 0 17 11 1 15 5 2 7 1 0 6 28 12 3 49 19 3 42 12 0 19 69 37 6 15 24 2 12 16 0 3 26 35 5 18 10 0 13 4 0 6 42 19 1 4 5 0 3 2 0 3 10 13 0 2 4 0 0 2 0 1 2 2 0 5 9 0 6 6 0 7 13 11 1 31 17 2 22 9 3 9 65 31 2 0 3 0 1 0 0 0 7 5 0 21 16 3 23 12 1 8 50 52 7 289 196 23 227 116 6 104 548 390 51 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS Total Shipped All Groups Trip A B C Reliefs Registered on Beach All Groups A B C Engine Department 3 1 3 3 1 2 0 1 4 3 0 2 1 0 1 0 0 0 1 1 1 5 0 0 4 0 1 5 8 0 7 4 0 2 3 0 3 14 8 0 3 1 1 1 1 1 0 5 0 0 7 4 0 5 3 1 1 19 2 0 18 12 0 8 5 0 6 29 24 2 16 22 1 10 10 0 3 32 44 2 1 2 1 0 2 0 0 2 3 0 7 2 0 2 1 0 1 15 4 1 4 2 1 3 0 0 1 11 5 1 15 11 0 10 6 0 6 28 25 2 13 13 2 13 13 1 3 20 32 2 8 13 0 6 5 0 2 20 17 0 4 1 0 2 1 0 1 7 4 0 1 3 0 1 3 0 0 2 4 0 1 7 0 0 3 0 1 4 13 0 12 12 0 9 10 0 2 22 16 0 2 2 0 1 1 0 0 2 4 0 8 17 1 5 9 0 5 17 22 1 131 136 11 81 82 5 36 255 240 15 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS Steward Department 0 2 4 4 2 2 0 5 3 3 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 4 1 0 3 1 0 0 6 0 0 11 6 0 7 2 0 0 26 8 2 2 1 0 0 1 0 0 3 0 0 6 2 0 4 1 0 1 22 5 0 19 7 0 14 4 0 5 29 12 1 17 2 1 13 4 0 3 28 10 3 0 1 0 0 1 0 0 0 1 0 8 4 0 4 3 0 0 9 4 0 8 2 0 2 2 0 2 13 3 2 14 6 0 11 3 0 7 32 10 0 10 12 1 8 8 0 5 14 23 2 25 1 0 12 0 0 4 35 5 0 0 0 0 2 0 0 1 1 0 0 0 2 0 3 0 0 0 1 3 0 1 1 0 0 1 0 0 4 1 0 13 2 1 13 4 1 4 26 5 0 0 1 0 2 0 0 1 0 1 0 22 4 1 16 1 0 7 43 11 2 160 57 8 118 38 3 40 297 106 15 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS Entry Department 3 8 11 0 5 3 1 4 14 23 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 0 0 2 1 1 1 1 0 0 3 3 0 10 0 0 4 0 1 0 20 4 0 4 0 0 2 0 0 0 4 1 1 7 6 5 5 7 2 8 12 6 2 15 1 2 3 1 0 2 28 5 4 15 10 2 4 6 1 5 29 18 0 2 2 1 2 0 0 0 0 2 0 2 0 0 1 0 0 0 4 3 1 1 0 0 1 0 0 1 5 9 8 13 12 3 12 4 2 14 50 43 1 15 16 0 12 7 0 1 32 30 0 12 5 2 5 1 0 3 24 11 0 2 0 0 1 0 0 0 3 3 0 9 35 0 9 27 0 0 12 22 2 2 1 1 0 0 0 1 3 7 2 9 7 3 5 3 2 6 21 7 0 1 0 0 1 0 0 0 1 0 2 16 9 1 6 2 1 12 34 39 26 145 116 21 79 62 10 57 301 236 GRAND TOTALS: 606 534 158 447 315 76 190 1,157 1,037 317 Mobile.................................. Wednesday: June 13, July 11 New Orleans....................................Tuesday: June 12, July 10 New York.......................................Tuesday: June 5, July 3 Norfolk.........................................Thursday: June 7, July 5 Oakland.....................................Thursday: June 14, July 12 Philadelphia..........Wednesday: June 6, *Thursday: July 5 Port Everglades.........................Thursday: June 14, July 12 San Juan........................................Thursday: June 7, July 5 St. Louis.........................................Friday: June 15, July 13 Tacoma..........................................Friday: June 22, July 20 Wilmington.....................................Monday: June 18, July 16 * Philadelphia change created by Independence Day holiday Each port’s meeting starts at 10:30 a.m. May 2012 11757_May_Log.indd 15 Seafarers LOG 15 4/26/2012 7:03:41 PM �Inquiring Seafarer Seafarers International Union Directory Michael Sacco, President Augustin Tellez, Executive Vice President David Heindel, Secretary-Treasurer George Tricker, Vice President Contracts Tom Orzechowski, Vice President Lakes and Inland Waters Dean Corgey, Vice President Gulf Coast Nicholas J. Marrone, Vice President West Coast Joseph T. Soresi, Vice President Atlantic Coast Kermett Mangram, Vice President Government Services HEADQUARTERS 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746 (301) 899-0675 ALGONAC 520 St. Clair River Dr., Algonac, MI 48001 (810) 794-4988 ANCHORAGE 721 Sesame St., #1C, Anchorage, AK 99503 (907) 561-4988 BALTIMORE 2315 Essex St., Baltimore, MD 21224 (410) 327-4900 GUAM P.O. Box 3328, Hagatna, Guam 96932 Cliffline Office Ctr. Bldg., Suite 103B 422 West O’Brien Dr., Hagatna, Guam 96910 (671) 477-1350 Editor’s note: This month’s question was asked of port agents. What steps can SIU members take that would help you serve them most efficiently? Georg Kenny Norfolk, Va. Write legibly and correctly when completing documents or forms; fill in every blank! Addresses and phone numbers should be kept current, and members shouldn’t use the union hall as their address. Also, pay attention to the expiration dates of clinic cards, documents, physicals, etc. We’ve also requested at the membership meetings for the past several years, when you first come to the hall, check with the counter personnel as to the status of your drug clearance. It’s disappointing having to inform any member that the clearance has expired, thus rendering them ineligible for employment opportunities. HONOLULU 606 Kalihi St., Honolulu, HI 96819 (808) 845-5222 HOUSTON 1221 Pierce St., Houston, TX 77002 (713) 659-5152 JACKSONVILLE 5100 Belfort Rd., Jacksonville, FL 32256 (904) 281-2622 JOLIET 10 East Clinton St., Joliet, IL 60432 (815) 723-8002 MOBILE 1640 Dauphin Island Pkwy, Mobile, AL 36605 (251) 478-0916 NEW ORLEANS 3911 Lapalco Blvd., Harvey, LA 70058 (504) 328-7545 NEW YORK 635 Fourth Ave., Brooklyn, NY 11232 (718) 499-6600 Government Services Division: (718) 499-6600 Jeff Turkus Wilmington, Calif. First, members should make sure that all of their documents are up-to-date and scanned in the system. Also, make sure their clinic cards and drug tests haven’t expired. On another note, patience is a virtue, and it’s always appreciated when members are patient when they come to the counter. There are times when the people working behind the counter are extremely busy. Lastly, members need to have up-to-date phone numbers and addresses on file. That should do it. Hazel Galbiso Honolulu Members who are expecting to reclaim their jobs but have not received any confirmation about their job order from the union hall should immediately let us know in an effort to follow up with the company to avoid any delays from being shipped. When members renew their shipping credentials (MMC, BST, TWIC, passport, clinic card), they should come into the hall for us to make copies  immediately in an effort to update the system and to avoid any delays from being dispatched to ship and/or reclaim their jobs. When members are seeking to be registered, dispatched to ship, file vacation, file for a membership book, apply for upgrading courses, etc., make sure all the proper documents and credentials are provided to prevent delays in processing their application. Communicate with us on any unresolved matters or concerns they may have. Jimmy White Mobile, Ala. One thing members can do is always be aware of their credential circumstances, starting with expiration dates. Whether it’s your clinic card, z-card, TWIC, basic safety training, be in tune with what his or her status is. Even at the time of shipping, guys are throwing in for jobs not realizing that something may have expired. We stress this at our meetings but sometimes it still falls through the cracks. Stay on top of anything that has an expiration date. Mike Russo Houston What the members can do to help us service them better is keep an eye on their documents. Make sure that they’ve gone and upgraded at the school if they have the sea time and are eligible to upgrade. Check all your documents. Help keep the hall clean, too. This is a place of business and we don’t want anyone to look negatively at the hall. Pic-From-The-Past NORFOLK 115 Third St., Norfolk, VA 23510 (757) 622-1892 OAKLAND 1121 7th St., Oakland, CA 94607 (510) 444-2360 PHILADELPHIA 2604 S. 4 St., Philadelphia, PA 19148 (215) 336-3818 PINEY POINT P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674 (301) 994-0010 PORT EVERGLADES 1221 S. Andrews Ave., Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33316 (954) 522-7984 SANTURCE 1057 Fernandez Juncos Ave., Stop 16 Santurce, PR 00907 (787) 721-4033 ST. LOUIS/ALTON 4581 Gravois Ave., St. Louis, MO 63116 (314) 752-6500 TACOMA 3411 South Union Ave., Tacoma, WA 98409 (253) 272-7774 WILMINGTON 510 N. Broad Ave., Wilmington, CA 90744 (310) 549-4000 In this 1952 photo from the LOG’s archives, members aboard the Robin Gray show their support for an organizing campaign at Atlantic Refining. If anyone has a vintage union-related photograph he or she would like to share with other Seafarers LOG readers, please send it to the Seafarers LOG, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. Photographs will be returned, if so requested. High-resolution digital images may be sent to webmaster@seafarers.org 16 Seafarers LOG 11757_May_Log_X.indd 16 May 2012 4/27/2012 6:43:18 PM �Welcome Ashore Each month, the Seafarers LOG pays tribute to the SIU members who have devoted their working lives to sailing aboard U.S.-flag vessels on the deep seas, inland waterways or Great Lakes. Listed below are brief biographical sketches of those members who recently retired from the union. The brothers and sisters of the SIU thank those members for a job well done and wish them happiness and good health in the days ahead. DEEP SEA KENNETH CAFFEY Brother Kenneth Caffey, 65, joined the SIU in 2000. He initially sailed aboard the Independence. Brother Caffey was born in Norfolk, Va., and shipped in the steward department. In 2001, he took advantage of educational opportunities at the SIU-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. Prior to his retirement, Brother Caffey worked sailed aboard the Wright. He lives in Virginia Beach, Va. ROBERT CRAPO Brother Robert Crapo, 65, became an SIU member in 1994 while in the port of Jacksonville, Fla. He originally sailed aboard the Sealift Pacific. Brother Crapo worked in the deck department. He last shipped on the Pfc. William Baugh. Brother Crapo calls Jacksonville Beach, Fla., home. RUBEN FIEL Brother Ruben Fiel, 65, donned the SIU colors in 1978 while in San Francisco. The steward department member’s first trip was with Michigan Tankers Inc. Brother Fiel attended classes on two occasions at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. He most recently worked aboard the Horizon Eagle. Brother Fiel resides in San Francisco. GEORGE GAUGGEL THURMAN JOHNSON Brother George Gauggel, 65, began sailing with the union in 1986. His first trip was on the USNS Contender. Brother Gauggel was born in Iowa and worked in the steward department. He upgraded on numerous occasions at the maritime training center in Piney Point, Md. Brother Gauggel’s most recent voyage was aboard the Paul Buck. He settled in Tacoma, Wash. Brother Thurman Johnson, 62, signed on with the union in 1974 while in the port of San Francisco. His earliest ship was the President Kennedy. Brother Johnson was born in St. Louis. The steward department member upgraded often at the SIU-affiliated school. Brother Johnson last sailed aboard the Alaskan Legend. He settled in Moreno Valley, Calif. MELCHOR GOROSPE SAM KASSEM MARY OLIVAS Brother Melchor Gorospe, 68, became an SIU member in 2001 during the SIU/NMU merger. Brother Gorospe sailed in the deck department. He enhanced his seafaring abilities in 2001 at that unionaffiliated school in Piney Point, Md. Brother Gorospe’s most recent trip was on the Horizon Pacific. He resides in California. Brother Sam Kassem, 67, became a Seafarer in 1975 in Seattle. His first ship was the Trader. Brother Kassem was born in Yemen. He attended classes in 1998 at the Piney Point school. The steward department member’s final trip was on the Horizon Tacoma. Brother Kassem is a resident of Tacoma, Wash. Sister Mary Olivas, 65, started sailing with the Seafarers in 2000. She originally shipped on the Global Sentinel. Sister Olivas was born in Los Angeles and sailed in the steward department. Her most recent voyage was aboard the USNS Dahl. She lives in Tampa, Fla. LUIS LIMA PATRICK HELTON Brother Patrick Helton, 65, donned the SIU colors in 1988 while in San Francisco. His first vessel was the Maj. Stephen W. Pless; his last, the Pfc. Eugene A. Obregon. Brother Helton was a member of the steward department. He upgraded often at the Piney Point school. Brother Helton calls Reno, Nev., home. ANGEL FIGUEROA Brother Angel Figueroa, 67, signed on with the Seafarers in 1994 in Houston. He originally sailed aboard the Nedlloyd Holland. Brother Figueroa worked in the engine department. In 1998 and 2010, he upgraded his skills at the Piney Point school. Brother Figueroa’s most recent voyage was on the Horizon Challenger. He is a resident of Houston. EDMOND FRANCOIS Brother Edmond Francois, 72, started his SIU career in 2001 as the NMU was merging into the Seafarers. The same year, Brother Francois visited the Paul Hall Center to upgrade his skills. He sailed in the deck department. Brother Francois’ last trip was aboard the Charleston Express. He makes his home in Houston. May 2012 11757_May_Log.indd 17 DONALD HOOD Brother Donald Hood, 61, joined the Seafarers in 1968 while in the port of Norfolk, Va. He initially sailed with Hudson Waterways Corporation. Brother Hood worked in the deck department. He attended classes on numerous occasions at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Hood most recently shipped aboard the Sgt. Matej Kocak. He lives in Norfolk. JAMES HORNBY Brother James Hornby, 71, was born in Glenoma, Wash. He began his SIU career in 1961 in Seattle. The deck department member’s first voyage was on the Madaket. Prior to his retirement, Brother Hornby sailed on the Horizon Anchorage. He continues to reside in Washington. Brother Luis Lima, 58, began his SIU career in 2001 as the NMU was merging into the Seafarers. He was a native of Cape Verde Island and sailed in the steward department. Brother Lima upgraded on three occasions at the Paul Hall Center. His most recent voyage was aboard the APL Agate. Brother Lima makes his home in Providence, R.I. CAMERON MILLER Brother Cameron Miller, 68, was born in Barbados. He joined the SIU in 2001 during the SIU/ NMU merger. The steward department member enhanced his skills often at the Piney Point school. Brother Miller last sailed on the Cape Rise. He calls Flushing, N.Y., home. MOUSID OMAR Brother Mousid Omar, 62, began his SIU career in 1976. His first voyage was on the Philadelphia. Brother Omar, a native of Yemen, upgraded twice at the Paul Hall Center. Before retiring, the deck department member was employed aboard the Horizon Eagle. Brother Omar resides in Detroit. GILBERTO PADILLA Brother Gilberto Padilla, 69, signed on with the union in 2003. He initially sailed on the Lib- erator. The Puerto Rico native attended classes in 2003 at the SIU-affiliated school. Brother Padilla, who sailed in the deck department, last worked aboard the Resolve. He makes his home in Ensenada, Mexico. PHILIP REYNOLDS Brother Philip Reynolds, 75, became an SIU member in 1994 while in the port of Houston. He sailed on vessels including the USNS Capella and the Maersk Georgia. Brother Reynolds shipped in the deck department. He upgraded on two occasions at the Piney Point school. Brother Reynolds is a resident of Flat Rock, N.C THOMAS SORESI Brother Thomas Soresi, 70, donned the SIU colors in 1961 in the port of New York. His first trip to sea was on the Beaugard. Brother Soresi was a deck department member. He most recently worked as chief bosun of the shore gang in Elizabeth, N.J. Brother Soresi calls Pocono Lake, Pa., home. Continued on Page 20 This Month In SIU History Editor’s note: The following items are reprinted from previous editions of the Seafarers LOG. 1939 After a strike of less than one week’s duration, the SIU reached an agreement with the Peninsula and Occidental Steamship Company. The agreement provided for a complete closed shop and all hiring to be done through the union hall. In addition to wage increases, the agreement established the payment of overtime for all work performed on Saturday afternoons, Sundays, and holidays, both at sea and in port, including the standing of regular watches. 1941 The SIU negotiated a bonus increase from $50 to $60 per month on the African and Far Eastern war zones with Waterman Steamship Company, Robin Line, and Bernstein Shipping Company. In addition, the agreements called for additional pay if a ship touched the ports of Suez and any other port in the Red Sea or the Persian Gulf. The bonus agreements were reopened when the President declared the Red Sea open to American shipping and after the Germans had declared that they would consider the Red Sea a war zone. 1962 Protesting Moore McCormack-Robin Line’s violations of its contract with the SIU, the union began picketing the company’s vessels on May 15 in Brooklyn. Within a few days, picketing had been extended to Manhattan, Philadelphia, Baltimore and Jacksonville and was tying up 10 vessels. The SIU also filed unfair labor practice charges against the company with the National Labor Relations Board alleging that the management was refusing to bargain in good faith. The SIU charged that the line was planning to sell seven ships, in violation of the contract. 1970 The SIU has opened a vacation center at the Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship at Piney Point, Maryland. This is a new and unique union program to make available to SIU members and their families first-class vacations at the lowest possible cost. Seafarers are often away from their families for months at a time and theirs is a hard life. The vacation center at Piney Point will give our members and their families a chance to enjoy themselves in comfort. Fishing, swimming, tennis, and sailing, soaking up the sun and exploring the lands that form the coast of the Chesapeake Bay area – all including good food and large, clean rooms – are some of the things that are now available at the SIU summer vacation center. Seafarers LOG 17 4/26/2012 7:03:47 PM �Final Departures DEEP SEA SAM BROOKS Pensioner Sam Brooks, 79, died Jan. 2. Brother Brooks, a Georgia native, joined the union in 1963 while in the port of New York. The deck department member initially shipped on the Steel Survey. Brother Brooks’ final trip was aboard the Virgo. He went on pension in 1994 and resided in Brooklyn, N.Y. EDGARDO CASTRO Brother Edgardo Castro, 47, passed away Oct. 15. He became a Seafarer in 1999 while in New York. Brother Castro first sailed on the Maj. Bernard Fisher. The deck department member last shipped aboard the El Faro. Brother Castro was born in Honduras but called New York home. HENRY CONNOLLY Pensioner Henry Connolly, 85, died Dec. 24. Brother Connolly first donned the SIU colors in 1944 in New York. He originally sailed with States Marine Lines. Brother Connolly, who worked in the steward department, was born in Harrison, N.J. He last shipped on the Inspiration. Brother Connolly retired in 1988 and lived in New Jersey. CHARLES DAVIS Pensioner Charles Davis, 77, passed away Dec. 12. Brother Davis was a native of Ohio. He began sailing with the union in 1966. Brother Davis’ first ship was the Ocean Cloud. He worked in the deck department. Brother Davis last shipped aboard the Maersk Alaska. He went on pension in 1999 and called Jacksonville, Fla., home. JOHN DUDA Pensioner John Duda, 86, died Dec. 31. Brother Duda was born in New Haven, Conn. He joined the SIU in 1959. The engine department member’s earliest trip to sea was on the Steel Scientist. His last voyage was aboard the OMI Wabash. Brother Duda became a pensioner in 1989. He made his home in Brooklyn, N.Y. KEVIN FARRELL Brother Kevin Farrell, 56, passed away Jan. 16. He first donned the SIU colors in 1993 while in Puerto Rico. Brother Farrell’s earliest trip was with Crowley Puerto Rico Services. The deck department member most recently worked on the USNS Stockham. Brother Farrell was a resident of Puerto Rico. 18 Seafarers LOG 11757_May_Log.indd 18 JOSEPH FRUGE Pensioner Joseph Fruge, 77, died Dec. 20. Brother Fruge joined the union in 1953. He initially shipped aboard Pan Shipping Corporation vessels. Brother Fruge was born in Louisiana and sailed in the deck department. His final ship was the Liberty Sun. Brother Fruge retired in 1995 and settled in Sulphur, La. RICHARD GLAZE Pensioner Richard Glaze, 81, passed away Dec. 4. Brother Glaze was born in Maryland. He started sailing with the SIU in 1951. Brother Glaze was first employed aboard the Edith. He was an engine department member. Brother Glaze’s last voyage was on the Global Link. He became a pensioner in 1993. Brother Glaze was a resident of Towson, Md. FELTON GREEN Brother Felton Green, 85, has passed away. He became an SIU member in 1978 while in the port of Wilmington, Calif. Brother Green was born in Panama and sailed in the steward department. He called New York home. HAYWOOD GREEN Pensioner Haywood Green, 84, died Dec. 17. Brother Green was born in Georgia. He began his seafaring career in 1952. Brother Green originally shipped on the Steel Inventor as a member of the engine department. Prior to his retirement in 1992, he worked aboard the Sealift Arctic. Brother Green resided in Mobile, Ala. ROBERT HOMMEL Pensioner Robert Hommel, 83, passed away Jan. 7. Brother Hommel joined the SIU in 1950 while in New York. His first voyage was with Pan Shipping Corporation. Brother Hommel was a native of Tacoma, Wash., and worked in the deck department. His last ship was the Tacoma. Brother Hommel started collecting his retirement compensation in 1988. He lived in Naples, Fla. ROBERT LANG Pensioner Robert Lang, 77, died Nov. 27. Brother Lang was born in Connecticut. He began sailing with the union in 1977 while in Jacksonville, Fla. Brother Lang’s earliest trip was on the Columbia. The steward department member’s final trip was aboard the Carolina. Brother Lang went on pension in 1999 and made his home in Jacksonville, Fla. JERRY POW Pensioner Jerry Pow, 87, passed away Dec. 30. Brother Pow joined the SIU ranks in 1951. He was born in Shanghai, China. Brother Pow sailed in the steward department in both the deep sea and inland divisions. He initially worked with AH Bull Steamship Company. Brother Pow last shipped on the Manhattan Island. He became a pensioner in 1990 and called New York home. JOHN RISBECK Pensioner John Risbeck, 90, died Dec. 9. Brother Risbeck, a native of Yugoslavia, began shipping with the union in 1943. He sailed in the engine department of the Jefferson City and the Tacoma (among other vessels) during his seafaring career. Brother Risbeck retired in 1980 and settled in Colville, Wash. EUELLE SCROGGINS Pensioner Euelle Scroggins, 84, passed away Dec. 30. Brother Scroggins became an SIU member in 1947. He sailed with various companies including Eagle Carries Inc. and CSX Lines. Brother Scroggins, a member of the deck department, was born in Thorsby, Ala. He began receiving his pension in 1993 and called Houston home. PABLO VASQUEZ Pensioner Pablo Vasquez, 70, died Nov. 16. Brother Vasquez first donned the SIU colors in 1966. He initially shipped aboard the Western Hunter. Brother Vasquez was a native of Puerto Rico. The engine department member’s final voyage was on the Horizon Producer. Brother Vasquez went on pension in 2006 and continued to live in Puerto Rico. DONALD WHITE Pensioner Donald White, 83, passed away Oct. 18. Brother White joined the union in 1947 while in the port of New York. His earliest trip was aboard a Sinclair Oil Corporation vessel. Brother White was born in New York and shipped in the deck department. His last vessel was the Philadelphia. Brother White became a pensioner in 1993. He was a resident of the state of Washington. WILLIAM YORK Pensioner William York, 85, died Dec. 6. Brother York began his seafaring career in 1948. He originally sailed with Bloomfield Steamship Company. Brother York was born in Lincoln, Mo., and worked in the engine department. Before his retirement in 1987, he shipped on the Robert E. Lee. Brother York called Covington, La., home. INLAND ROBERT DUNN Pensioner Robert Dunn, 84, passed away Jan. 2. Brother Dunn joined the SIU in 1970. He sailed with McAllister Towing of Virginia for the duration of his career. Brother Dunn was a Portsmouth, Va., native. The engine department member retired in 1993 and settled in Swannanoa, N.C. ELLIOTT GORDON Pensioner Elliott Gordon, 93, died Nov. 12. Brother Gordon was born in Frankfort, Ky. He donned the SIU colors in 1962. Brother Gordon first worked with Bernhardt Brothers. Prior to retiring in 1980, he shipped with American Barge Lines Company. Brother Gordon resided in Lexington, Ky. VICTOR LOZINAK Pensioner Victor Lozinak, 79, passed away Dec. 12. Brother Lozinak became a union member in 1957 while in the port of Philadelphia. The Pennsylvania native first sailed with Taylor Marine Towing Company. His last boat was operated by McAllister Towing of Philadelphia. Brother Lozinak started collecting his retirement compensation in 1988 and lived in Audubon, Pa. ANGEL SANCHEZ Pensioner Angel Sanchez, 71, died Nov. 29. Brother Sanchez joined the SIU ranks in 1977. He worked aboard vessels operated by Crowley Puerto Rico Services. Brother Sanchez was a native of Puerto Rico and sailed in the deck department. He went on pension in 1998 and continued to make his home in Puerto Rico. Editor’s note: The following brothers, all former members of the National Maritime Union (NMU), have passed away. RAYMOND AIKMAN Pensioner Raymond Aikman, 89, passed away Nov. 7. Brother Aikman, a native of Belize, became a pensioner in 1988. He called Georgia home. JOSE DEL ROSARIO Pensioner Jose Del Rosario, 90, died Oct 6. Brother Del Rosario was born in Tampa, Fla. He went on pension in 1970. Brother Del Rosario settled in Smyrna, Tenn. EDWARD GARCIA Pensioner Edward Garcia, 86, passed away Nov. 20. The New York-born mariner started collecting his pension in 2001. Brother Garcia was a resident of Gretna, Tenn. JOSEPH GUTIERREZ Pensioner Joseph Gutierrez, 83, died Dec. 16. Brother Gutierrez joined the NMU in 1973. The engine department member was born in New Orleans. Brother Gutierrez last sailed on the Cyprine. He made his home in Hollywood, Fla. Brother Gutierrez retired in 1999. RAY GUZMAN Pensioner Ray Guzman, 89, passed away Nov. 6. Brother Guzman was born in Colombia. He began receiving his retirement compensation in 1987. Brother Guzman lived in Naples, Fla. GEORGE HENDERSON Pensioner George Henderson, 85, died Nov. 9. Brother Henderson, a native of Alabama, went on pension in 1984. He continued to reside in Alabama. HENRY LOSS Pensioner Henry Loss, 86, passed away Nov. 11. Brother Loss was a Maryland native. He became a pensioner in 1987 and called Middle River, Md., home. JOSE MARTINEZ Pensioner Jose Martinez, 92, died Nov. 15. Brother Martinez was born in Puerto Rico. He started collecting his retirement compensation in 1985. Brother Martinez settled in Port Charlotte, Fla. MARTIN WATSON Pensioner Martin Watson, 85, passed away Oct. 16. The Georgiaborn mariner retired in 1972. Brother Watson continued to make his home in Georgia. Name Allen, Habe Boswell, Lieutenant Briseno, Manuel Chladek, Clarence Cruz, Candelario Fears, Ernest Gouge, William Hernandez, Enrique Jones, John Mattei, Geran Mercadel, Joseph Reyna, Reinaldo Tolar, Webster Tulley, Louis Weeks, James Age DOD 73 87 92 69 95 85 84 86 88 88 87 86 88 87 99 Dec. 12 Oct. 18 Dec. 10 Nov. 30 Nov. 10 Dec. 22 Nov. 21 Dec. 27 Aug. 29 Dec. 13 Nov. 12 Nov. 13 Nov. 28 Dec. 29 Dec. 5 May 2012 4/26/2012 7:03:53 PM �Digest of Shipboard Union Meetings HORIZON RELIANCE (Horizon Lines), February 26 – Chairman Anthony Sabatini, Secretary Joseph Laureta, Educational Director David Watkins, Deck Delegate Rene Rafer, Engine Delegate Adel Irani, Steward Delegate Abdulla Baabbad. Chairman announced upcoming payoff at sea. He recommended reading the LOG for news on STCW. Secretary reminded fellow mariners to help keep lounge clean and keep laundry room supplied. Educational director urged Seafarers to upgrade their skills at the unionaffiliated school in Piney Point. He also encouraged them not to wait until the last minute for document renewals. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew thanked steward department for job well done. Crew would like increased pension benefits. Next ports: Los Angeles and Honolulu. LIBERTY GRACE (Liberty Maritime), February 19 – Chairman Willie Marsh, Secretary Donna Saling, Educational Director Jerome Dooms, Steward Delegate Gerald Joseph. Crew lounge AC has been repaired. Chairman announced ship’s scheduled arrival in Houston. Educational director encouraged members to upgrade at union-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. He also reminded everyone to keep all documents current. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew discussed overtime in each department. They requested additional vacation days and better dental benefits. Crew thanked galley gang for all the great meals, fresh-baked bread and desserts. LIGHTNING (Maersk Line, Limited), February 25 – Chairman Samuel Lampshire, Secretary Christina Mateer, Educational Director Daniel Dean, Engine Delegate Sergio Ayala, Steward Delegate Patricia Geras. Chairman reminded crew members The Seafarers LOG attempts to print as many digests of union shipboard minutes as possible. On occasion, because of space limitations, some will be omitted. Ships’ minutes first are reviewed by the union’s contract department. Those issues requiring attention or resolution are addressed by the union upon receipt of the ships’ minutes. The minutes are then forwarded to the Seafarers LOG for publication. Burial at Sea for Brother Taranto Mariners aboard the Horizon Enterprise solemnly gathered on Feb. 22 to remember Bosun James Taranto and to commit his last remaining ashes to the sea. The shipboard memorial service (parts of which are pictured here) took place while the vessel sailed between Honolulu and Tacoma, Wash. Brother Taranto died Jan. 11 at age 61. He sailed with the SIU for more than 20 years, most recently aboard the Grand Canyon State in December 2011. (Thanks to vessel master Capt. Ron Radicali for passing along the photos.) to make sure rooms are clean and new linens are available for arriving mariners. Educational director recommended upgrading in Piney Point, Md. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew noted that Seafarers LOG is available on the union’s website. Crew expressed need for new dryer. They said bosun, steward and electrician should have their own computers for work, with internet access, in their respective rooms. Crew thanked steward department for excellent food including superb salad bar. Next port: Los Angeles. OVERSEAS LUXMAR (OSG), February 13 – Chairman Raymond Nowak, Secretary Nancy Heyden, Educational Director Carlos Sanchez, Deck Delegate Ricardo Guevara. New dryer is on order and should be delivered when ship arrives in Corpus Christi. Chairman reminded departing crew to leave clean sets of linens and towels for those arriving. He thanked everyone for an enjoyable trip and commended crew for good seamanship. Also thanked steward for “all the extras she does with the pastries, breads and nice night lunches.” He also urged members to make sure their documents are up-to-date and to get a copy of the contract so they know what to expect aboard ship. Secretary thanked everyone for keeping common areas clean and thanked bosun for leadership. Educational director “wanted everyone to know that the union now has a great website” that includes a members-only portal with individual information such as sea time and medical records, plus current news about the union and industry. He said it’s a good idea to check the sea time listed and if potential inaccuracies are found, contract headquarters. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew Supporting Operation Enduring Freedom discussed rotary shipping. They talked about various shipboard procedures and schedules, and stressed the importance of courtesy and working together. PELICAN STATE (Crowley), February 29 – Chairman Raymond Tate, Secretary Exxl Ronquillo, Educational Director Oscar Garcia, Deck Delegate James Hall, Engine Delegate Emanuel Paul, Steward Delegate Mauricio Fernandez. Chairman discussed upcoming payoff and need for safety at all times. Secretary said room inspection went great. He thanked crew for keeping vessel clean. Educational director encouraged fellow members to upgrade at union-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. Crew thanked steward department for job well done. CHARGER (Maersk Line, Limited), March 16 – Chairman Mathew Bevak, Secretary Gregory Broyles, Educational Director Andrew Linares. Chairman thanked everyone for a good trip. He encouraged Seafarers to donate to SPAD, the union’s voluntary political action fund. Secretary urged members to upgrade at Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md. Educational director thanked steward department for excellent job and reiterated encouragement to all members concerning upgrading in Piney Point. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew discussed vacation benefits. LIBERTY GLORY (Liberty The Seafarers-crewed USNS Charles Drew (left) is pictured April 5 in the Gulf of Oman while sailing in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. Approaching from the right is the guided-missile cruiser USS Cape St. George, ready for an at-sea replenishment. The Drew is manned in the unlicensed positions by members of the SIU Government Services Division. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Christopher S. Johnson) May 2012 11757_May_Log.indd 19 Maritime), March 18 – Chairman Amante Gumiran, Secretary James Harris. Chairman announced upcoming payoff in New Orleans. Secretary reminded everyone to clean rooms before leaving the vessel. Educational director encouraged fellow members to upgrade in Piney Point and reminded everyone to keep documents current. Disputed OT in deck department; no beefs or disputed OT in others. Crew talked about not overloading washer or dryer. They thanked galley gang for great meals. OVERSEAS ANACORTES (OSG), March 12 – Chairman Felsher Beasley, Secretary Dana Paradise, Educational Director Cary Pratts, Engine Delegate Carlos Castillo, Steward Delegate Alfrancis Bauzon. Chairman reported ship running well. President’s report from LOG was read and discussed. Secretary noted forms are available and crew can see steward for them any time. Educational director reminded everyone to keep documents up-to-date and upgrade in Piney Point whenever possible. No beefs or disputed OT reported. New dryer expected to arrive tomorrow. Crew wants heavy bag for gym. Next ports: Port Everglades, Fla., and Pascagoula, Miss. RACER (Maersk Line, Limited), March 10 – Chairman Thomas Flanagan, Secretary Glenn Williams, Educational Director Paul Titus, Deck Delegate John Walsh, Engine Delegate Davon Brown, Steward Delegate Norma West. Chairman announced payoff scheduled for Newark, N.J. He reported another good, safe trip and thanked entire crew for excellent efforts and good fellowship. Secretary reminding departing crew to put dirty linen in C-deck crew locker room. Educational director advised fellow members to protect their futures by taking advantage of the school in Piney Point. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Upcoming ports in addition to Newark include Charleston, S.C., Savannah, Ga., Mobile, Ala., and Houston. Seafarers LOG 19 4/26/2012 7:03:56 PM �Welcome Ashore Each month, the Seafarers LOG pays tribute to the SIU members who have devoted their working lives to sailing aboard U.S.-flag vessels on the deep seas, inland waterways or Great Lakes. Listed below are brief biographical sketches of those members who recently retired from the union. The brothers and sisters of the SIU thank those members for a job well done and wish them happiness and good health in the days ahead. Brother Robert Stevens, 66, started his seafaring career in 1963. His first voyage was on an Isco Inc. vessel and his most recent ship was the Elizabeth. Brother Stevens sailed in the deck department. He lives in Santa Rosa, Calif. while in the port of Norfolk, Va. His earliest trip was aboard a Gulf Atlantic Transport Corporation vessel. Brother Austin was born in North Carolina. He was last employed on the Mariner Towing. Brother Austin is a resident of Frisco, N.C. JAMES WADSWORTH HUGH GIBBS Brother James Wadsworth, 56, was born in Florida. He joined the union in 1973 while in Piney Point, Md. Brother Wadsworth originally worked on the Overseas Aleutian. The steward department member’s final ship was the Sgt. Matej Kocak. Brother Wadsworth makes his home in Wilmington, N.C. Brother Hugh Gibbs, 60, became a union member in 1990. In 1993 and 2001, he upgraded his skills at the maritime training center in Piney Point, Md. Brother Gibbs sailed in the engine department of vessels operated by Allied Towing for the duration of his career. He resides in Engelhard, N.C. Continued from Page 17 ROBERT STEVENS INLAND MEDFORD AUSTIN Brother Medford Austin, 72, signed on with the SIU in 1968 ville. Brother Harrington was a member of the deck department. He often took advantage of educational opportunities at the Piney Point school. Brother Harrington continues to live in his native state, Texas. OLIVER STEINER THOMAS HORTON Brother Thomas Horton, 54, began his seafaring career in 1984. The steward department member upgraded on numerous occasions at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Horton first sailed with Allied Towing. His final trip was with Express Marine Inc. Brother Horton calls North Carolina home. Brother Ronnie Harrington, 61, joined the SIU ranks in 1989. He primarily worked with Crowley Towing and Transportation of Jackson- Brother Oliver Steiner, 66, donned the SIU colors in 1994 while in New Orleans. He was primarily employed with Westbank Riverboat Services. Brother Steiner was a member of the engine department. He is a resident of Coden, Ala. GREAT LAKES LONNEE AAKEBERG WALTER JARVIS RONNIE HARRINGTON Allied Towing. He shipped in the engine department and attended classes at the Seafarersaffiliated school in Piney Point, Md. Brother Jarvis makes his home in Wakefield, Va. Brother Walter Jarvis, 58, was born in Virginia. He signed on with the union in 1970 while in the port of Norfolk, Va. Brother Jarvis mainly worked on vessels operated by Brother Lonnee Aakeberg, 62, was born in Superior, Wisc. He worked aboard Great Lakes Towing Company vessels. In 1993, Brother Aakeberg enhanced his seafaring abilities at the Piney Point school. He continues to reside in Wisconsin. ALAN CHAPIN Brother Alan Chapin, 62, started sailing with the union in 1992 in Detroit. The deck department member sailed mainly with Upper Lakes Towing Company. Brother Chapin went to the Paul Hall Center in 1995 to upgrade. He lives in Gladstone, Mich. ALI ZAWKARI Brother Ali Zawkari, 61, joined the SIU in 1972. His first vessel was the George D. Goble; his last, the Sam Laud. Brother Zawkari worked in the steward department and in 2008 completed training at the unionaffiliated school in Piney Point, Md. He calls Detroit home. Know Your Rights FINANCIAL REPORTS. The Constitution of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU makes specific provision for safeguarding the membership’s money and union finances. The constitution requires a detailed audit by certified public accountants every year, which is to be submitted to the membership by the secretary-treasurer. A yearly finance committee of rank-and-file members, elected by the membership, each year examines the finances of the union and reports fully their findings and recommendations. Members of this committee may make dissenting reports, specific recommendations and separate findings. TRUST FUNDS. All trust funds of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU are administered in accordance with the provisions of various trust fund agreements. All these agreements specify that the trustees in charge of these funds shall equally consist of union and management representatives and their alternates. All expenditures and disbursements of trust funds are made only upon approval by a majority of the trustees. All trust fund financial records are available at the headquarters of the various trust funds. SHIPPING RIGHTS. A member’s shipping rights and seniority are protected exclusively by contracts between the union and the employers. Members should get to know their shipping rights. Copies of these contracts are posted and available in all union halls. If members believe there have been violations of their shipping or seniority rights as contained in the contracts between the union and the employers, they should notify the Seafarers Appeals Board 20 Seafarers LOG 11757_May_Log.indd 20 by certified mail, return receipt requested. The proper address for this is: Augustin Tellez, Chairman Seafarers Appeals Board 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 Full copies of contracts as referred to are available to members at all times, either by writing directly to the union or to the Seafarers Appeals Board. CONTRACTS. Copies of all SIU contracts are available in all SIU halls. These contracts specify the wages and conditions under which an SIU member works and lives aboard a ship or boat. Members should know their contract rights, as well as their obligations, such as filing for overtime (OT) on the proper sheets and in the proper manner. If, at any time, a member believes that an SIU patrolman or other union official fails to protect their contractual rights properly, he or she should contact the nearest SIU port agent. EDITORIAL POLICY — THE SEAFARERS LOG. The Seafarers LOG traditionally has refrained from publishing any article serving the political purposes of any individual in the union, officer or member. It also has refrained from publishing articles deemed harmful to the union or its collective membership. This established policy has been reaffirmed by membership action at the September 1960 meetings in all constitutional ports. The responsibility for Sea­ farers LOG policy is vested in an editorial board which consists of the executive board of the union. The executive board may delegate, from among its ranks, one individual to carry out this responsibility. PAYMENT OF MONIES. No monies are to be paid to anyone in any official capacity in the SIU unless an official union receipt is given for same. Under no circumstances should any member pay any money for any reason unless he is given such receipt. In the event anyone attempts to require any such payment be made without supplying a receipt, or if a member is required to make a payment and is given an official receipt, but feels that he or she should not have been required to make such payment, this should immediately be reported to union headquarters. CONSTITUTIONAL RIGHTS AND OBLIGATIONS. Copies of the SIU Constitution are available in all union halls. All members should obtain copies of this constitution so as to familiarize themselves with its contents. Any time a member feels any other member or officer is attempting to deprive him or her of any constitutional right or obligation by any methods, such as dealing with charges, trials, etc., as well as all other details, the member so affected should immediately notify headquarters. EQUAL RIGHTS. All members are guaranteed equal rights in employment and as members of the SIU. These rights are clearly set forth in the SIU Constitution and in the contracts which the union has negotiated with the employers. Conse­ quently, no member may be discriminated against because of race, creed, color, sex, national or geographic origin. If any member feels that he or she is denied the equal rights to which he or she is entitled, the member should notify union headquarters. SEAFARERS POLITICAL ACTIVITY DONATION (SPAD). SPAD is a separate segregated fund. Its proceeds are used to further its objects and purposes including, but not limited to, furthering the political, social and economic interests of maritime workers, the preservation and furthering of the American merchant marine with improved employment opportunities for seamen and boatmen and the advancement of trade union concepts. In connection with such objects, SPAD supports and contributes to political candidates for elective office. All contributions are voluntary. No contribution may be solicited or received because of force, job discrimination, financial reprisal, or threat of such conduct, or as a condition of membership in the union or of employment. If a contribution is made by reason of the above improper conduct, the member should notify the Seafarers International Union or SPAD by certified mail within 30 days of the contribution for investigation and appropriate action and refund, if involuntary. A member should support SPAD to protect and further his or her economic, political and social interests, and American trade union concepts. NOTIFYING THE UNION — If at any time a member feels that any of the above rights have been violated, or that he or she has been denied the constitutional right of access to union records or information, the member should immediately notify SIU President Michael Sacco at headquarters by certified mail, return receipt requested. The address is: Michael Sacco, President Seafarers International Union 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746. May 2012 4/26/2012 7:03:58 PM �Paul Hall Center Upgrading Course Information The following is the schedule of courses at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md., for the next few months. All programs are geared to improving the job skills of Seafarers and to promoting the American maritime industry. Please note that this schedule may change to reflect the needs of the membership, the maritime industry and—in times of conflict—the nation’s security. Students attending any of these classes should check in the Saturday before their course’s start date. The courses listed here will begin promptly on the morning of the start dates. For classes ending on a Friday, departure reservations should be made for Saturday. Seafarers who have any questions regarding the upgrading courses offered at the Paul Hall Center may call the admissions office at (301) 994-0010. Title of Course Start Date Date of Completion Title of Start Date of Course Date Completion Marine Electrician October 20 December 14 FOWT August 18 September 14 October 13 November 9 Junior Engineer May 12 July 6 August 25 October 19 Machinist July 28 August 17 August 18 September 7 Pumpman September 8 September 21 Deck Department Able Seaman May 12 June 8 August 4 August 31 October 13 November 9 ARPA June 2 June 8 July 28 August 3 October 27 November 2 Welding June 2 June 22 July 7 July 27 September 15 October 5 October 20 November 9 November 24 December 14 Bosun Recertification July 14 August 6 Steward Department Upgrading Courses Chief Steward July 7 August 17 October 13 November 23 ECDIS September 29 October 5 December 8 December 14 Serve Safe July 7 July 13 September 29 October 5 Fast Rescue Boat June 23 June 29 July 28 August 3 Chief Cook These modules start every other week. The next class begins May 18. GMDSS June 9 June 22 November 24 December 7 Galley Operations/Advanced Galley Operations Lifeboatman/Water Survival May 26 June 8 June 23 July 6 July 21 August 3 August 18 August 31 September 15 September 28 October 13 October 26 November 11 November 23 December 8 December 21 May 19 June 1 Radar Observer July 14 July 27 October 13 October 26 Radar Renewal (One day) June 25 June 25 August 13 August 13 November 16 November 16 STOS July 14 July 27 September 15 September 28 Engine Department Adv. Refer Containers July 14 August 10 Basic Auxiliary Plant Operations (BAPO) May 26 June 22 July 21 August 17 September 15 October 12 November 10 December 7 FOWT June 23 July 20 UPGRADING APPLICATION Name_________________________________________________________________________ Address_______________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________ Telephone (Home)_________________________ (Cell)_________________________ Date of Birth___________________________________________________________________ Deep Sea Member o Lakes Member o Inland Waters Member o If the following information is not filled out completely, your application will not be processed. Social Security #_______________________ Book #__________________________________ Seniority_____________________________ Department_____________________________ Home Port____________________________________________________________________ E-mail_______________________________________________________________________ Endorsement(s) or License(s) now held_____________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________ Are you a graduate of the SHLSS/PHC trainee program? o Yes o No If yes, class #___________________________________________________________________ Have you attended any SHLSS/PHC upgrading courses? o Yes o No If yes, course(s) taken____________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________ With this application, COPIES of the following must be sent: One hundred and twenty-five (125) days seatime for the previous year, one day in the last six months prior to the date your class starts, USMMD (z-card) front and back or relevant pages of merchant mariner credential, front page of your union book indicating your department and seniority, qualifying seatime for the course if it is Coast Guard tested, 1995 STCW Certificate, valid SHBP Clinic Card and TWIC. May 2012 11757_May_Log.indd 21 These modules start every Monday. The next classes will begin May 7. Safety Upgrading Courses Advanced Firefighting June 2 June 8 July 21 July 27 July 28 August 3 September 15 September 21 September 22 September 28 Basic Firefighting/STCW May 12 May 18 June 23 June 29 July 7 July 13 August 11 August 17 September 15 September 21 October 13 October 19 Government Vessels June 16 June 22 August 18 August 24 September 29 October 5 November 24 November 30 May 12 May 18 Medical Care Provider June 9 June 15 July 28 August 3 August 4 August 10 September 22 September 28 Tank PIC Barge December 8 December 14 Tanker Asst. Cargo DL July 14 July 27 COURSE ____________________________ START DATE _______________ DATE OF COMPLETION _______________________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________________ LAST VESSEL: ___________________________________ Rating: ____________________ Date On: _______________________________ Date Off:____________________________ SIGNATURE ____________________________________ DATE______________________ NOTE: Transportation will be paid in accordance with the scheduling letter only if you present original receipts and successfully complete the course. If you have any questions, contact your port agent before departing for Piney Point. Not all classes are reimbursable.Return completed application to: Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education Admissions Office, P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674-0075; or fax to (301) 994-2189. The Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education is a private, non-profit, equal opportunity institution and admits students, who are otherwise qualified, of any race, nationality or sex. The school complies with applicable laws with regard to admission, access or treatment of students in its programs or activities. 5/12 Seafarers LOG 21 4/26/2012 7:03:58 PM �Paul Hall Center Classes Unlicensed Apprentice Water Survival Class #757 – Eighteen Phase I unlicensed apprentices completed this course March 16. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Julio Bernardez, Richard Brockway, Crowder Carson, Jayson Cruz, Olympia Harley, Rene Hernandez Ramos,Tristan Jones, Sean McCarthy, Peter Mertz, Keith Miller, Kyle Nielsen, Juan Norales, Christopher Sanicola, Christopher Sears, Derrick Siefke, Grant Simonson, Joseph Spencer and Anthony Thomas. Class Instructor Ben Cusic is in the back row at the far right. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Radar Observer – Seven upgraders completed the enhancement of their skills in this course March 23. Those graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Timothy Culwell, Daniel Deneau, Kevin Johnson, Russell Macomber, Kevin Moore, Juan Negron and Perry Schroff. Welding – Eight upgraders finished their requirements in this course March 23. Those graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Marie Acosta, Ashley Carmichael, Reginald Colbert, Terrance Colbert, Dwight Gordon, Reginald Hunter, Fidel Pascua and Cornelius Smith. Their instructor, Buzzy Andrews, is in the back row at the far right. FOWT – The following Seafarers (above, in alphabetical order) completed their requirements and graduated from this course March 30: Abdullah Alamri, Major Brooks, Rommel Crespo, Romeo Cruda, Daniel Cunningham, Nathan Graddick, Lucion Liles, James Ross, Samuel Shuebrooks, Michael Souza, Steven Supplee, Mony Williams and Dhahabi Quraish. Class Instructor Tim Achorn is at the far right. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Junior Engineer – The following individuals (above, in alphabetical order) completed this course March16: Joel Bell, George Box, Tristan Brand, Matthew Bryant, Ernest Bullock Jr., Robert Crosby, Ordilio Evora, Alijohn Fernandez, Abdulkarim Ghaleb, Jason Greene, Leparte Jasper, Latanya Johnson, Allen Newgen, Phillip Nies, Joseph Noach, Antonio Perez, Lionel Rivera, Reinaldo Roman, Grayson Ross, Zachary Ross, Antonio Simon, Robert Stafford, Jonathan Tucker and Todd Williams. Automatic Radar Plotting Aids – Six upgraders graduated from this course March 30. Completing their requirements (above, in alphabetical order) were: Timothy Culwell, Kevin Johnson, Henry Kenric, Russell Macomber, Kevin Moore and Perry Schroff. Tankship Familiarization DL – Two classes of Phase III unlicensed apprentices completed this course March 23. Graduating (photo at right, in alphabetical order) were: Ali Kassem Ali, Jason Allen, Matthew Bailer, Khoury Bethea, Tania Carson, Matt Dalgetty, Joseph Dasteel, Sage Embleton, Terry Frazier, Andre Graham, Sean Hernandez, Robert Hofferth, Christopher Hughes, Jade Keller, Magare Kidane, Christopher King, Joseph Longuidice, Kaleb McGill, Yancey Mitchell, Angela Puchalsky, Adolph Romero, Brandon Simken, Justin Smith, John Sorsdal, Slawomir Tlalka and Burton Uys. 22 Seafarers LOG 11757_May_Log.indd 22 May 2012 4/26/2012 7:04:06 PM �Paul Hall Center Classes BST – The following Seafarers (photo at left, in alphabetical order) finished their requirements in this course March 9: Xavier Alfaro, Sonny Austria, Mario Batiz, Gabriel Bello, David Bennett, James DeMouy, Willie Doud, Jack Gainers, Artemia Gandeza, Ernesto Gonzaga, Ruben Haynes, Gil Lawrence, Eileen Mendiola, Larry Middleton, Raul Napoles, Penny Pollard, Luis Ramos-Rosa, James Stimage, Gemini Tacang, Kirk Willis and Kevin Wimbley. Mike Roberts, the class instructor, is at the far right. Important Notice Students who have registered for classes at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, but later discover - for whatever reason - that they can’t attend, should inform the admissions department immediately so arrangements can be made to have other students take their places. Tank Barge DL – Eighteen upgraders improved their skills by completing this course March 12. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Carlo Balajadia, Mario Batiz, Wayne Bell, David Bennett, Dan Carman, Amancio Crespo, John Daunoras, Alfred Drake, Jack Gainers, Xavier Mercado, Brent Midgetts, Bryan Page, Morgan Piper, Keith Reeder, Derik Rye, James Stimmage, Richard Weaver and Kirk Willis. Mitch Oakley, their instructor, is kneeling in the front row at the far left. Basic & Advanced Fire Fighting – Nine individuals completed this course March 9. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Mohamed Ahmed, Roy Carey, Daniel Deneau, Rafael Lanila, Bryan Page, Derik Rye, Gerry Schroff, Jon Silveira and Scott Thompson. Class Instructor Wayne Johnson is in the back row at the far right. BST (Hawaii) – The following individuals (above, in no particular order) completed this course March 10 at the Seafarers Training Facility in Barbers Point, Hawaii: Darlene Dominguez, Souleymane Sall, Janalee Adams, Rebecca Addison, Daniel Eiden, Adriano Girangaya Jr., Katia Pogarchenka, Neil Shyte, Ndeye Fall, Mark Henderson, McKenzie Neuman, Heather Schwartz, Joseph Staples, Rosetta Hurst, Tonique Newell, Joseph Ritchey, Amareca Thompson, Rebecca Kotte, Daniel Minzer and Wilford Simmons. May 2012 11757_May_Log_X.indd 23 Medical Care Provider – The following Seafarers (above, in alphabetical order) graduated from this course March 9: Carlo Balajadia, Amancio Crespo, Milan Dzurek, Carlo Johnson, Steven Jones, M’Barek Nouhairi, Morgan Piper, Louis Santoago, Jeremy Scheil and Jonathan Stratton. Medical Care Provider – The following upgraders (above, in alphabetical order) finished their requirements and graduated from this course March 16: Mohamed Ahmed Elsawi, Rafael Lanila, Bruce Morris, Stephen Morris III, Gil Pruitt, Scott Thompson and Allen Ward. Class Instructor Mark Cates is standing at the far right. BST (Hawaii) – Sixteen individuals finished this course March 24 at the Seafarers’ Hawaiibased training facility. Those graduating (above, in no particular order) were: Craig Cady, Allison Boyd, Chad Collins, Julian Fernandez, Arianna Keever, Lance Vallis, Joseph Almeida, Michele Borchew,  Brian Straub, Peter Fu, Jasmine Pierce, Amanda Stuart, Jeffrey Drown, Elpidio Ramos, Scott Mikelonis and George Solomon. Seafarers LOG 23 4/27/2012 6:43:27 PM �Volume 74, Number 5 May 2012 Paul Hall Center Course Dates Page 21 School Offers Comprehensive Steward Training Paul Hall Center’s Upgrading Courses Help Mariners Advance In the eyes of many Seafarers, the backbone of a ship is the steward department. After a hard day’s work in the engine room or on deck, everyone looks forward to a delicious meal. Members of the steward department have ample opportunities to maintain and upgrade their skills at the union-affiliated Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md. The steward department typically is composed of three different ratings. The entry-level position is Steward Assistant (SA), followed by Chief Cook, and then Chief Steward. “What’s important for prospective upgraders to remember is that working your way up is a process,” said Paul Hall Center Executive Chef John Hetmanski. “The program is by-design, meaning that we have stewards completing the course and then going out to sea for more seatime for a reason. We need Seafarers to have the opportunity to practice the specifics of what they’ve learned at sea before they can continue with their education.” The first course that a Seafarer with the required seatime can take is Galley Operations. To be eligible for the course, a student must have successfully completed the Unlicensed Apprentice (UA) program (prior to Oct. 17, 2009) and have six months of seatime sailing as SA or have one year seatime sailing as SA. The four-week course covers basic safety and equipment training and also teaches attendees basic sanitation skills. By the end of the course, students should be able to make simple baked goods like breads and cookies and other dishes. The next step in the upgrading process is the Certified Chief Cook course. This 12-week course is done in six two-week modules and is designed to increase skills in cooking, sanitation, and safety. For Seafarers to be eligible for this course, they must either have successfully completed the UA program (after Oct. 17, 2009) and have six months seatime as an SA or, if they completed the UA program prior to Oct. 17, 2009, then they must take Galley Operations and then have six months seatime as an SA. Another prerequisite option is to complete Galley Operations and sail for one year as SA. The Chief Cook course not only teaches students many fundamentals of cooking fish, meat, vegetables, and soups, but also teaches the complexities of menu planning and recipe development. Another important component of the course is ServSafe certification. ServSafe is a widely used program that specializes in food service management. The classes include classroom instruction and a practicum where potential Chief Cooks try out their skills in a real-life setting at the school. Advancing to a Chief Steward rating initially involves taking the Advanced Galley Operations course, which takes place over four weeks. The course reinforces skills that steward department members learned in other classes and also introduces some international recipes and computer training. This course has a six-month seatime prerequisite sailing as a Chief Cook and completing the aforementioned Certified Chief Cook course. The final step in becoming a Chief Steward requires an additional six months Gov’t Services Galley Gangs Earn MSC Excellence Awards Four Seafarers-crewed ships have been honored by the Military Sealift Command (MSC) for food service excellence. The four vessels, the USNS Sacagewea, USNS Richard Byrd, USNS Kanawha, and USNS Guadalupe are crewed by members of the SIU Government Service Division. MSC presented the 2012 David M. Cook Food Service Excellence awards to representatives of the ships at the International Food Service Executives Association’s Joint Military Awards Ceremony in San Diego, Calif., March 31. More than 600 people were on hand for the awards, ranging from rank-and-filers to military 11757_May_Log.indd 24 Upgraders in the photo above, as well as those shown in the other two photos below, sharpen their skills at the union-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. of seatime as a Chief Cook after taking the Advanced Galley Operations course and then completing the Chief Steward upgrading course. The Chief Steward course is six weeks long; it covers topics in various areas that a person in control of a galley will need to succeed. A Chief Steward candidate will take basic supervision, computer application or information technology, food production, menu planning, and inventory management. The course, overall, emphasizes effective management of a galley, including menu planning and being able to manage inventory by computer. In addition, instruction in leadership and conflict resolution is included. leadership, food service executives, and others. “I take great pleasure in commanding all of the food service personnel who participated in this year’s awards program,” said Rear Adm. Mark Buzby, commander of MSC. “Your exceptional efforts keep morale and quality of life at peak levels. Congratulations and Bravo Zulu for a job well done.” The awards were given in four separate categories: East Coast large ship, West Coast large ship, East Coast small ship, and West Coast small ship. The Sacagawea won for East Coast large ship; the Byrd won for West Coast large ship; the Kanawha won for East Coast small ship; and the Guadalupe took home the award for West Coast small ship. Seafarers who sail in the steward department are known industry-wide as being excellent cooks but these With top-notch instructors and state-ofthe-art training facilities available at the Paul Hall Center, members of the Steward Department have all the tools they need at the ready for not only upgrading their careers, but for continuing to provide nutritious and great-tasting meals for fellow mariners. Steward Dept. Courses At the Paul Hall Center Galley Operations (4 weeks) – Must have successfully completed UA program (prior to Oct. 17, 2009) and have six months’ seatime sailing as SA or one year’s seatime as SA. Certified Chief Cook (12 weeks) – Must have successfully completed the UA program (after Oct. 17, 2009) and have six months’ seatime as SA or successfully finished UA program (prior to Oct. 17, 2009), Galley Operations, and six months’ seatime as SA or must have successfully completed Galley Operations and one year’s seatime as SA. Advanced Galley Operations (4 weeks) – Requires taking all the above courses and having six months’ seatime sailing as a Chief Cook. Chief Steward (6 weeks) – Requires taking all of the above courses and having six months’ additional seatime sailing as a Chief Cook. awards really put the icing on the cake, according to some of the winners. “We’re already looking toward next year,” said Chief Cook Frank Porter of the Sacagawea. “We’re really focusing on the ‘Healthy Heart’ program and continuing to decrease the amount of fat and salt in our menu items. We’re looking at what restaurants do and trying to incorporate those practices into how we prepare and serve our food. We’re really going to have to step up our game if we want to win again next year. This is a very competitive award and there are some really good cooks out there on our ships.” In addition to the award, the winning galley gangs also receive a week of shipboard culinary training with a certified executive chef to help continue the pattern of excellence shown by the Seafarers. 4/26/2012 7:04:17 PM � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Seafarers Log Issues 2010-2019 Description An account of the resource Volumes LXXII-LXXXI of the Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Seafarers Log Digital Copies Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 2010-2019 Document A resource containing textual data. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre text. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource May 2012 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES GREEN COVE TO THE RESCUE UNION MOURNS RENE LIOEANJIE ALASKA TANKER COMPANY CREWS HONE SAFETY SKILLS IN PINEY POINT AMERICAN-FLAG SHIPS READY TO TRANSPORT FUEL TO NORTHEAST NAVY LEAGUE: JONES ACT VITAL TO NATIONAL SECURITY LIOEANJIE, LAST NMU PRESIDENT, DIES AT 89 GREEN COVE CREW RESCUES FOUR MEMBERSHIP RECEIVES PRE-BALLOTING REPORT ITF SEAFARERS’ TRUST CELEBRATES 30TH ANNIVERSARY RANK-AND-FILE COMMITTEE OKAYS UNION’S FINANCIAL RECORDS FOR 2011 NY WATERWAY CREW PLUCKS THREE PEOPLE FROM HARBOR MARITIME TRADES DEPARTMENT, U.S.-FLAG COALITION SET NEWSPAPER STRAIGHT ON EX-IM BANK SHIPPING SHIPPING INDUSTRY GIANT MAERSK MCKINNEY-MOLLER PASSES AWAY AT AGE 98 LABOR MOVEMENT STUNNED BY DEATH OF MARK AYERS OCEAN CRESCENT CARRIES LAST ARMY VEHICLE FROM KUWAIT IMPORTANT NOTE ABOUT VACATION APPLICATIONS AND BENEFICIARIES MSC PRAISES PERFORMANCE OF SIU-CREWED USNS WHEAT AGENCY PUBLICIZES ADDITIONAL LOGBOOK AND ENTRY REQUIREMENTS MARINER EXAMS AT MU GUAM SCHEDULED VIA HONOLULU REC COAST GUARD ANNOUNCES FINAL RULE FOR BALLAST WATER HOLIDAY SPIRIT AND PIGSKIN TALK PREVALENT ON ALLIANCE BEAUMONT ATC ATTENDS SAFETY TRAINING AT PAUL HALL CENTER RECOLLECTIONS FROM THE MURMANSK RUN SCHOOL OFFERS COMPREHENSIVE STEWARD TRAINING PAUL HALL CENTER’S UPGRADING COURSES HELP MARINERS ADVANCE Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Seafarers Log Digital Copies Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 05/01/2012 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Newsprint Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context Vol. 74, No. 5 http://www.seafarerslog.org/archives/files/original/9d1467a9d7b22cab3b9e72e2d1daf781.pdf f690fca461ca048a6e9f4af94155d0e9 PDF Text Text Volume 74, Number 6 June 2012 Members Ratify Standard Contracts 5-Year Agreements Boost Wages, Maintain Benefits By an overwhelming majority, SIU members have approved the new standard freightship and tanker agreements. Voting continued as this edition of the LOG went to press, but by late May enough Seafarers already had voted in favor of the new pacts to ensure their ratifications. Among other highlights, the contracts call for annual wage increases while maintaining benefits. Some of the members who backed the new agreements are pictured on the Horizon Enterprise (below at left), the Ocean Atlas (immediately below) and at the union hall in Tacoma, Wash. (left). Pages 2, 3, 9. Ceremonies Honor U.S. Mariners During this year’s National Maritime Day ceremonies in the nation’s capital, U.S. Merchant Mariners were praised for their centuries of service and for their ongoing importance to America’s security. Officials and other representatives from the SIU and its affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education participated in events hosted by (respectively) the U.S. Department of Transportation and the U.S. Military Sealift Command. Pictured below, after the DOT ceremony, are (from left) MSC Commander Rear Adm. Mark Buzby, SIU President Michael Sacco and TRANSCOM Commander Gen. William Fraser. At right are some of the apprentices from the Paul Hall Center who were on hand throughout the day. Pages 12-14. New Tonnage Pages 2, 4 ‘Sail-In’ Successful Page 5 Waterfront Project Progresses Page 24 �President’s Report More Progress for the SIU During a month that was loaded with positive, important stories, nothing tops the great news that Seafarers overwhelmingly have ratified the new standard freightship and tanker agreements. Voting was still taking place at press time, but enough “ayes” had been counted to ensure rank-and-file approval of the new five-year contracts. These agreements are excellent for the membership and I think they’re positive for our operating companies, too. In addition to yearly wage increases and maintaining all benefits, the contracts include various improvements that promote safer, more efficient shipboard operations. It may sound like a cliché but I truly believe this is a win-win: good for the union, good for the companies. I said many months ago, before negotiations started, that the SIU would be both aggressive and realistic in our approach, and that’s exactly what Michael Sacco we did. And I commend everyone involved in the negotiations, on both sides of the table. Credit also goes to the membership – your input made a difference, and it very clearly is reflected in the agreements. We have other reasons to feel good about the future, not the least of which is new tonnage entering the SIU fleet. As reported in this edition, our union recently welcomed a new heavy-lift ship for our deep-sea mariners, a new ATB that’s sailing on the Great Lakes, and a new T-AKE vessel that’ll operate in our Government Services Division. Also, the first in a fleet of joint high-speed vessels (abbreviated as JHSVs) recently completed sea trials; those vessels will mean new jobs both for our private-sector Seafarers and for our Government Services crews. And, a new tugboat is scheduled for its ceremonial launch late this month. There’s big news concerning new tonnage on the way, too, and I expect we’ll be announcing it soon. On the legislative front, the SIU (and all of American maritime labor) worked very hard to help secure the mid-May Congressional renewal of the Export-Import Bank for three years. This is big news for the SIU because American-flag ships transport a significant amount of the cargo generated by Ex-Im financing. It’s also worth noting that the bank, which does not take money from taxpayers, directly benefits small businesses and that its financing supports an estimated 290,000 American jobs, including many in the maritime industry. This is, in fact, a jobs program, and as I’ve said before, when labor unions and the Chamber of Commerce (another Ex-Im backer) are on the same side of any argument, you can bet it’s a slam dunk. That program was one of many the SIU helped identify during this year’s “Sail-In” in the nation’s capital. Coinciding with this year’s event on May 9, which promoted a strong U.S. Merchant Marine, the Navy League of the United States issued a report citing our industry as crucial to America’s national and economic security. The very first sentence in the report says it all: “No industry has been more vital to the success of our country than America’s maritime industry.” Last but not least, also last month, U.S. Rep. Elijah Cummings (D-Md.) attached an amendment to the Defense of Defense authorization bill that would require the U.S. Maritime Administration to take additional steps to encourage the use of U.S. vessels in meeting national security needs, and U.S. Rep. Jeff Landry (R-La.) spearheaded a letter to Homeland Security Secretary Janet Napolitano to publicly recognize the importance of the Jones Act, the fundamental law of the American maritime industry. The letter was signed by a bipartisan contingent of 15 Members of Congress. Like I said, it was a good month. And I guarantee our brothers and sisters throughout the SIU that we will continue working on your behalf to ensure continued progress and more gains throughout the months and years ahead. Volume 74, Number 6 June 2012 The SIU online: www.seafarers.org The Seafarers LOG (ISSN 1086-4636) is published monthly by the Seafarers International Union; Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU, AFLCIO; 5201 Auth Way; Camp Springs, MD 20746. Telephone (301) 899-0675. Periodicals postage paid at Southern Maryland 20790-9998. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to the Seafarers LOG, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. Communications Director, Jordan Biscardo; Managing Editor/Production, Jim Guthrie; Assistant Editor, Paddy Lehane; Photographer, Harry Gieske; Administrative Support, Misty Dobry. Copyright © 2012 Seafarers International Union, AGLIWD. All Rights Reserved. The Seafarers International Union engaged an environmentally friendly printer for the production of this newspaper. 2 Seafarers LOG The newly reflagged BBC Seattle previously sailed as the BBC Leer. SIU Gains Jobs As BBC Seattle Reflags Under ‘Stars & Stripes’ SIU members are sailing aboard the newly reflagged cargo vessel BBC Seattle, operated by American Overseas Marine (AMSEA). Seafarers signed onto the ship in late April in Savannah, Ga.; the BBC Seattle began sailing under the Stars and Stripes in mid-May. The ship was built in 1998 in Germany and is roughly 500 feet long. It will be employed in “worldwide cargo delivery” supporting the U.S. Department of Defense, according to a government announcement, with most of the work involving “re-supply operations between the United States and the Arabian Gulf.” Including options, the operating contract extends to January 2017. AMSEA also operates another SIU-crewed heavylift ship for MSC: the BBC Houston, which joined the union-contracted fleet in September 2010. Additionally, SIU members (and officers from the Seafarersaffiliated AMO) sail on the AMSEA-operated LMSRs USNS Bob Hope, USNS Fisher, USNS Seay, USNS Mendonca, USNS Pililaau, USNS Brittin and USNS Benavidez and the prepositioning ships M/V 2nd Lt. John P. Bobo, USNS Pfc. Dewayne T. Williams, USNS 1st Lt. Baldomero Lopez, USNS 1st Lt. Jack Lummus and M/V Sgt. William R. Button. Union’s Great Lakes Crews Welcome New Contracts, Additional Tonnage It’s been a busy couple of months on the Great Lakes, with a new ATB coming under SIU contract creating additional jobs for the membership, and officials negotiating several contracts that feature significant gains. Led by SIU Vice President Great Lakes and Inland Waters Tom Orzechowski, SIU officials and rank-and-file members took to the negotiating tables to work out agreements with a number of companies that include wage increases, continued benefits funding, and maintaining of upgrading opportunities. SIU members at the Erie Sand and Gravel Company based out of Erie, Pa., have a new three-year agreement (it started April 1) providing for wage increases and a vacation pay increase. In addition, health benefits for SIU members and their families are maintained at Pictured above are some of the crew aboard the new ATB, their current levels. SIU members who choose the M/V Ken Boothe Sr. From left to right are GVA Badr to utilize the resources and opportunities at the Abdullah, AB John Cedeno, AB Frank Pivik, AB Abdulhafidh Ahmed, Oiler Ronald Bujnovsky and GVA Dalton Bertrand. union-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime The tug and barge are shown in the photo below. Training in Piney Point, Md. will have the ability to do so. The SIU also was able to gain company contributions to the Seafarers Money of Orzechowski, Brdak, and Joliet Port Agent Chad Purchase Pension Plan. This particular negotiating Partridge. committee was composed of Orzechowski, Port Agent The line boats division of the Material Service CorTodd Brdak, and SIU Representative Monte Burgett. poration also negotiated an agreement with the SIU. Seafarers at the company work aboard the dredge M/V That division also received wage increases every year St. John on Lake Erie. of the five-year agreement (which went into effect The SIU also completed and ratified an agreement January 1, 2012 and maintained their health and penwith Material Service Corporation aboard their harbor sion benefits as well. The SIU negotiating committee boats based in Morris, Ill. The five-year agreement, also consisted of Orzechowski, Brdak, and Partridge. which is effective from February 28, 2012 through In other good news for Seafarers on the Great February 28, 2017, features wage increases and main- Lakes, the SIU-contracted company American Steamtains current health and pension benefits. The SIU ne- ship Company has entered into service a new articugotiating committee established a floating holiday for lated tug/barge operated by a new SIU-contracted bargaining unit members. This committee consisted company called Boland and Cornelius Incorporated. The agreement with Boland and Cornelius Incorporated, which was negotiated by Orzechowski and Brdak, features many of the benefits obtained at other union-contracted companies. The fiveyear pact, effective from March 1, 2012 through January 15, 2017, includes yearly wage increases, CorePlus health benefits, Seafarers Vacation Plan benefits, Seafarers Pension Plan benefits and Paul Hall Center benefits. In addition, members are also eligible to participate in the Seafarers 401(k) plan. The M/V Ken Booth Sr. began servicing the Great Lakes in April and is designed to transport dry-bulk commodities that are procured through Jones Act trade. The vessel consists of the 10,700 horsepower tug Ken Booth Sr. and the Lakes Contender, which has a cargo capacity of 34,000 tons. June 2012 �Members Ratify Standard Contracts Pacts’ Highlights Include Wage Increases, Maintaining Benefits Despite an economy in which cuts and concessions are the norm, the SIU has secured new standard freightship and tanker agreements that not only call for annual wage increases but also maintain members’ benefits – all while not losing a single shipboard job. At press time, voting continued on the new five-year agreements; but, based on tallies from dozens of SIUcrewed ships and from special meetings and regular membership meetings conducted at the halls, the contracts obviously were headed for ratification. Nearly all of the votes were in favor of the agreements, which take effect July 1 of this year and run through June 2017. The union’s bargaining team, led by SIU Executive Vice President Augie Tellez and Vice President Contracts George Tricker, negotiated contracts which, in addition to the previously stated achievements, also contain other improvements that are being well-received by the membership. Negotiations took place from February to early May, against a backdrop of the recession, refinery closures and political attacks on many of the programs that are vital to the U.S. Merchant Marine. In his monthly report to Seafarers in May, Tricker listed some of the pacts’ highlights and also urged members “not to overlook the fact that Seafarers’ pension and medical benefits not only remain intact, but do so without any major give-backs by the union. At a time when many pension and medical plans are delivering less and costing more, the Seafarers Plans remain fully funded; and we have secured contracts that maintain benefits while also bringing above-average wage gains.” He added that input from rank-and-file members “clearly is reflected in the new agreements.” Reaction from Seafarers has been overwhelmingly positive. Addressing Tellez, Tricker and other dais officials at the May membership meeting in Piney Point, Md., Recertified Bosun James Orlanda hit the deck and stated, “You guys did a great job. We all appreciate your hard work.” In Norfolk, Va., AB Jonathan Davis said the new contracts “are a good thing for the members. I’m excited and I love the changes – I love them all. Being an AB, Seafarers aboard the Horizon Reliance (photo above) and on Matson’s Maunalei (photo at right) show their support for the new contracts. SIU members began voting on the agreements in early May, aboard ships and at the union halls. Negotiating team members included (seated, from left) Mike Blunt, Tony Naccarato, George Tricker, Augie Tellez, Capt. Bob Johnston, Ed Hanley, Mike Bohlman, (standing) Danielle Szepesi (administrative support), Robert Rogers, Jack Craft, Bill Cole, Jean Harrington, Steve Demeroutis and Norm Gauslow. the part about not having to go to the flying bridge, I’m all for that.” Recertified Steward Alonzo Belcher, also in Norfolk, said of the contracts, “Everything was very good. This is a slam dunk, and we really needed it. Considering how slow the economy is, to gain a contract like this is a beautiful thing. Everybody’s happy about it.” Belcher added, “Everyone that had anything to do with this – (SIU President) Mike Sacco, Augie, George – they really came through for us.” Recertified Bosun Randall Porter, speaking in Jacksonville, Fla., said, “I’m very pleased with it. The raises and some of the new rules – they did a very good job with this contract. I was surprised we got we got as much as we did. Keep up the good work and keep fighting for us, and we’ll keep doing it on this end.” Oiler Rafael Alvarez-Chacon, a Jacksonville-area member who immigrated to the U.S., summed up his feelings when he stated, “I am very lucky to be part of this union. Sometimes I feel like people here do not realize how difficult things are, and how fortunate we are to be represented and helped within our work, by people who fight for our wages and benefits…. Our health benefits are great, too, not only (for) me, but also for my wife. It’s wonderful. The economy isn’t getting much better, but we are benefitting from our new contracts. I don’t think we could ask for anything more.” For wages and all wage-related items, the contracts stipulate yearly increases. There are extra increases for Horizon Lines crews that ultimately will bring those vessels back in line with the standard contracts. Members also are commending a planned transition to a new routine that will allow Seafarers to utilize medical facilities closer to home while also permitting them to take follow-up exams that are re-evaluations rather than additional comprehensive physicals. The target implementation date is October 1, 2012. Once this system has been enacted, the employers have committed to phase out the current sign-on physicals performed at Anderson Kelly. In other noteworthy modifications, contract language has been changed to be more inclusive so that coffee time is allowed approximately midway through any fourhour overtime period. Also, all three shipboard departments now are eligible for an hour of overtime pay per week for maintaining their living quarters at recognized sanitary standards. Seafarers in the deck department are taking note of the fact that under the new contracts, if cargo is not properly secured before going to sea and crew members are required to change lashings, they shall be paid at the rates specified in Article II, Section 21 (b), Penalty Rates. This is an addition to the contracts. Also affecting deck-department mariners is new language specifying that when members must use Ospho or an equivalent, they will be paid at their respective penalty rates (only Ospho was covered in the old pacts). Seamen on wheel watch will no longer be required to work on the flying bridge. And, starting July 1, in order to be employed as an AB/Dayworker, an AB must possess a green-ticket endorsement. Of note to mariners in the engine room, and as a direct result of membership input, the list of duties qualifying for penalty time has been expanded to include cleaning of scavenger boxes and working above the second tier of containers. In the steward department, the union and the companies are adopting work rules recognized throughout the industry and reflective of three-person galleys. SIU recertified stewards played important roles in developing and modifying those rules. Finally, the SIU and the companies have committed to a six-month review of how the Manila Amendments to the STCW convention affect overtime. Both parties share the goal of protecting mariners’ opportunities for overtime. (See Page 9 for more photos) June 2012 Seafarers LOG 3 �USNS Cesar Chavez Christened at NASSCO The last in a series of 14 dry-cargo/ammunition ships – the USNS Cesar Chavez – was christened May 5 during an evening ceremony at the General Dynamics NASSCO shipyard (a union facility) in San Diego. SIU Vice President West Coast Nick Marrone and Assistant Vice President Government Services Chet Wheeler represented the union at the event. The USNS Chavez will be crewed in the unlicensed slots by members of the SIU Government Services Division. The 689foot vessel is scheduled for delivery to the U.S. Military Sealift Command (MSC) in November. All of the ships in the Lewis and Clarkclass (each abbreviated as T-AKE) honor pioneers and explorers, according to MSC. Cesar Chavez, who passed away in 1993, was an American farm worker, labor leader and civil rights activist who cofounded the National Farm Workers Association, which later became the United Farm Workers. He made the farm workers’ struggle a moral cause with nationwide support. SIU Vice President West Coast Nick Marrone (left) and Assistant Vice President Government Services Chet Wheeler posed for the photo above just prior to the start of the May 5 USNS Cesar Chavez christening ceremony in San Diego. “It is fitting that this ship is named for Cesar Chavez, for among the core values embraced by him were innovation, determination, sacrifice and service to others – core values shared by Military Sealift Command – core values that are the basis of service for this great ship and her crew, now and into the future,” said Navy Rear Adm. Mark H. Buzby, commander, MSC, to an audience of more than 7,000 people who attended the event. Ceremony attendees included the ship’s sponsor, Helen Fabela Chavez, widow of the ship’s namesake, nearly 500 other members of the Chavez family; the ceremony’s keynote speaker, the Honorable Juan M. Garcia III, Assistant Secretary of the Navy (Manpower and Reserve Affairs); the Honorable Jerry Sanders, mayor of San Diego; distinguished guests from the U.S. military and maritime industry; and union NASSCO employees who built the ship. “USNS Cesar Chavez exemplifies the latest innovations in marine technology with its integrated electric power propulsion and ship systems,” said Buzby. “This ship will go to sea better prepared than the ships that preceded her because the team that built her learned new lessons with every ship of the class and incorporated those lessons learned, along with energy-saving technologies into the next hull. USNS Cesar Chavez is the culmination of that extraordinary process – she is the ultimate T-AKE!” The ship is slated for use by MSC’s Combat Logistics Force, or CLF. CLF ships deliver ammunition, food, fuel and other supplies to U.S. and allied ships at sea, enabling the Navy to maintain a worldwide forward presence. Two T-AKEs are being assigned to MSC’s maritime prepositioning ship squadrons, which are deployed to strategic locations worldwide, carrying U.S. Marine Corps cargo ready for rapid delivery to Marines ashore. In the photo above, the USNS Cesar Chavez, to be crewed by SIU Government Services Division members, slides into the water for the first time during a ceremony May 5 at NASSCO. (Photo by Sarah E. Burford, MSC Pacific). St. Louis Port Maritime Council Honors 3 Email System Notifies Mariners SIU President Sacco Presents Labor Award to U.S. Senator Claire McCaskill Several hundred union members, their Of Credential families and friends honored three commuRenewal Dates nity leaders at the Maritime Trades DepartThe U.S. Coast Guard’s National Maritime Center (NMC) in late April launched what it described as “an improvement to the automated email system originally fielded in December 2009. Mariners who have provided an email address to the NMC will receive an email notification 90 days prior to the expiration of their Merchant Mariner Credential, License, Merchant Mariner Document, or Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping. Intended as a final reminder of your impending credential expiration, you can ignore the email if you have recently submitted an application for renewal. If you have any questions regarding your application, use the online Application Status Checker to determine the status.” Questions may be directed to the agency at 888-IASKNMC (888427-5662) or via email at IASKNMC@uscg.mil. In order to access the Application Status Checker, go to http://homeport.uscg.mil/ mmcstatus 4 Seafarers LOG ment Greater St. Louis Area and Vicinity Port Council’s 32nd annual dinner on May 5. David Zimmermann of Sheet Metal Workers (SMWIA) Local 36 received the Labor Man of the Year Award. George “Butch” Welsch was recognized as Management Man of the Year. The council presented U.S. Senator Claire McCaskill (D-Mo.) with its Joe Sacco Friend of Labor Award; MTD President Michael Sacco, who also serves as president of the SIU, gave the award to the senator. Zimmermann serves as the president and business manager of SMWIA Local 36, where the dinner took place. He started his career with the local as an apprentice in 1973. He is a third-generation member SIU Exec. VP Augie Tellez welcomes Lt. Gen. Kathleen Gainey to the port council event. Lt. Gen. Gainey is deputy commander of the U.S. Transportation Command. Honorees and officers of the St. Louis Port Council pose under a replica of the city’s famed Gateway Arch which was constructed by union members. From the left are George ”Butch” Welsch, PMC Vice President Jack Martorelli, MTD President Michael Sacco, SMWIA 36 President/Business Manager David Zimmermann, PMC President Richard Mantia, U.S. Senator Claire McCaskill and PMC Secretary/Treasurer Becky Sleeper. of the Sheet Metal Workers, and noted his uncle received the same award years ago. Zimmermann saluted the way the unions, industry and community work together in St. Louis because “without their ongoing support, I wouldn’t be standing here this evening.” In introducing Welsch, PMC SecretaryTreasurer and SIU Port Agent Becky Sleeper said he “may be management on paper but he’s union at heart.” He serves as president of the 117-year-old Welsch Heating and Cooling Company, where he has worked for more than 50 years. The workers at Welsch are members of SMWIA Local 36. “I believe our two organizations have shown the way how things were done in the past and should be done,” Welsch said of his company and the union. “Our enemy is the competition, not each other. Together, we can do it better.” McCaskill said of her being recognized by the MTD: “This is a big deal to me. I understand what the port council is. Your unions represent thousands of workers who want their voices heard. Some yahoos want to say the problem is the workers who work every day for a living wage. We know the problem is not the fire fighters, the police officers, the teachers and the men and women who belong to your unions.” The senator concluded by stating she is proud “to stand up for the working men and women of this state.” June 2012 �Pictured from left to right: SIU Executive Vice President Augie Tellez, Senior Legislative Assistant Dan Ostermueller of Rep. Rodney Frelinghuysen’s office, Kevin Speers of Maersk, Dave Boatner of MM&P and James Henry of the Transportation Institute. Pictured from left to right: SIU Vice President Gulf Coast Dean Corgey, Greg Detiveaux of Crowley, Jack Belcher of the National Ocean Policy Coalition, Mike Neuman of the Transportation Institute and Brent Greenfield of the National Ocean Policy Coalition. SIU Helps Make Industry ‘Sail-In’ Successful Third Annual Event Carries Maritime’s Message to Capitol Hill More than 150 members of the maritime industry, including eight SIU and Maritime Trades Department (MTD) officials and staff, took to the halls of Congress to advocate for the U.S.-flag industry May 9. The third annual “Sail-In” emphasized the importance of maintaining a strong U.S.-flag merchant marine into the offices of dozens of congresspersons and senators in the Cannon, Longworth, and Rayburn House office buildings and the Russell Senate office building. “The Sail-In is the one time of the year that nearly every segment of the maritime industry comes together to brief Congress on how we make the United States stronger and safer,” said James Henry, chairman of the Board of Directors of the American Maritime Partnership (AMP), an industry group that is made up of a variety of maritime organizations including the SIU. “Working together as one, maritime personnel from the Great Lakes, inland rivers, deep seas and beyond help boost America’s national and homeland security while promoting much-needed job growth here at home.” SIU Executive Vice President Augie Tellez, MTD Executive Secretary-Treasurer Daniel Duncan, Vice President Atlantic Coast Joseph Soresi, Vice President West Coast Nick Marrone, Vice President Lakes and Inland Waters Tom Orzechowski, Vice President Government Services Kermett Mangram, Vice President Gulf Coast Dean Corgey and SIU Political Director Brian Schoeneman were on board, visiting various congressional representatives and their staffs and representing the SIU membership and maritime labor at large. In addition to representatives from maritime labor, the event brought together participants from virtually every sector of the maritime industry. On hand were shipowners, operators, and rank-and-file workers. All of the people involved have a stake in making sure that the U.S.-flag fleet has friends on Capitol Hill. A major point of the day was to thank elected officials for their past support and to encourage their continued backing of major maritime-related issues, including the Jones Act, Maritime Security Program, cargo preference, proper allocation of Harbor Maintenance Tax funds, and other issues that directly affect American maritime workers. Equally important was the effort to contact newer members of Congress who may be less familiar with the maritime industry. SIU officials pointed out that maritime issues not only affect workers in the industry but also play a huge role in our economic recovery and national security. The Sail-In comes on the heels of a major report released by the Navy League of the United States titled, “Maritime Industry: The Foundation of American Seapower.” The study sums up the numerous benefits of the U.S.-flag fleet, including the more than 500,000 jobs that are associated with the domestic industry alone. “The industry provides jobs for hundreds of thousands of Americans in every corner of our nation,” the report said. “The American maritime industry moves cargo and troops around the world in far greater volume, with far greater efficiency, than any other transportation mode.” The reception of the groups was overwhelmingly positive, with longtime friends of the industry being thanked for their continued support and new friends eager to be kept abreast of issues, laws, and positions that are favorable to the merchant marine and American workers. In a related event, U.S. Rep. Norm Dicks (D-Wash.) on May 8 received the prestigious “Salute to Congress” award during an annual dinner in suburban D.C. SIU Vice President West Coast Nick Marrone (at right) is pictured with a congressional staffer and members of his Sail-In group which at various times throughout the day included Danny Shea of AMO, Berit Erickson of SUP, Jim Haussener of the California Marine Affairs and Navigation Conference, Sebastian O’Kelly, and Rocky Smith of Crowley. Pictured from left to right: Rear Admiral Jerry Achenbach (who is a proud former SIU member) of the G.L. Maritime Academy, Mike Hainen of the G.L. Maritime Academy, Representative Peter Welch (D- Vt.), Elizabeth Guerra of MEBA, Jim Sartucci of K&L Gates, SIU Vice President Lakes and Inland Tom Orzechowski and Brian Krus of AMO. Pictured from left to right: SIU Vice President Government Services Kermett Mangram, John Arnold of AMO, SIU Legislative Director Brian Schoeneman, Ed Hanley of Maersk, Barbara Shipley of SUP, Jack Craig of APM Terminals. Pictured from left to right: Captain Steven Werse of MM&P, U.S. Representative Timothy Bishop (D-N.Y.), Captain William Campbell of Liberty Maritime, SIU Vice President Atlantic Coast Joseph Soresi and Rich Berkowitz of the Transportation Institute. Pictured from left to right: Marcus Arky of Metro Group Maritime, U.S. Representative Ileana Ros-Lehtinen (R-Fla.), MTD Executive Secretary-Treasurer Daniel Duncan, Jordan Truchan of Patriot Contract Services and Ian Bennitt of SCA. June 2012 Seafarers LOG 5 �Ocean Crescent Crew Receives Medals for Mission SIU members and officers from the Seafarers-affiliated AMO were honored May 7 by the U.S. Department of Transportation and its Maritime Administration during a well-attended ceremony in Beaumont, Texas. The event celebrated the delivery of the last mine-resistant, ambush-protected vehicle (MRAP) from Iraq to the U.S. – cargo that was transported aboard the heavy-lift ship Ocean Crescent, which was operated by Pacific Gulf-Marine for Intermarine, LLC. SIU Vice President Gulf Coast Dean Corgey was a featured speaker at the ceremony. He described the U.S. Merchant Marine’s centuries-old role as America’s fourth arm of defense, and also touched on why civilian mariners remain vital to national and economic security. As guests including military personnel, longshoremen, and civilian employees of the Army’s 82nd Transportation Battalion looked on, Kevin Tokarski, MarAd’s associate administrator for national security, presented each crew member with the U.S. Merchant Marine Expeditionary Medal. One day after the ceremony, the historic MRAP was loaded onto a truck to begin its final journey to Fort Hood, Texas, where it will be permanently enshrined in the First Cavalry Brigade Division Museum. The MRAP program has deep Texas roots. The vehicles were built in Sealy, Texas, and were utilized by U.S. forces in Some of the honorees and officials from the SIU, AMO, Maritime Administration and Intermarine gather for a photo after the ceremony. Operations Iraqi Freedom and Operation New Dawn. The last cargo of MRAPs left Iraq in midDecember and was loaded onto the Ocean Crescent in Kuwait in late March. In an online post about the ceremony, Secretary of Transportation Ray LaHood wrote, “As our troops return home from their time abroad, it’s important that we do everything we can to thank and honor them for their service. But U.S. Mariners and U.S.flagged vessels have also been there since the beginning, and are at all times, ‘ready for the next call.’ So, to all of those brave mariners, thank you and welcome home.” SIU members sailing aboard the Ocean Crescent on its most recent voyage from the Middle East included Bosun Joseph Casalino, ABs Albert Bharrat, Guillermo Blanco, Thomas Conry, Kevin Moore and Jovan Williams, QEEs David Brewster and Bruce Korte, GUDE Justino Sanchez, Steward/Baker Emie Aguinaldo, ACU Edward English and ACU Enrique Agosto. OSG Executive: U.S. Needs Jones Act The head of an SIU-contracted company recently from drawdowns of U.S. Strategic Petroleum Reserves. made a compelling case for maintaining the Jones Act – As Arntzen observed, American-flag ships were availa time-proven law that benefits America’s national and able, and the situation wasn’t an emergency. economic security. Additionally, he cited the Deepwater Horizon tragMorten Arntzen, president and CEO of Overseas Shi- edy (which happened in 2010) as the launching point for pholding Group (OSG), addressed a large audience April “perhaps the most misguided attack against the Jones 23 as he was being honored by the Marine Society of the Act.” Arntzen recalled blatantly false accusations that the City of New York. He devoted his speech to a 92-year- law somehow “inhibited the cleanup by blocking the use old statute that requires cargo moving between domes- of foreign-flag skimming vessels, which were reported to tic ports to be carried on vessels that are crewed, built, be far superior in technology and number than American flagged and owned American. Even though the Jones Act skimming vessels. A number of media outlets and punisn’t new and is strongly supported by (among others) the dits bought into this story and criticized the unwillingObama administration and the U.S. Navy, the subject is ness of the president to waive the Jones Act. With some, timely because of misguided attacks against the nation’s the accusation stuck. As Mark Twain is alleged to have freight cabotage law. said, ‘A lie can travel halfway around the world while the OSG in recent years has built 12 Jones truth is still putting on its boots.’” Act product tankers and two articulated He then pointed out that the Jones tug-barge units – investments of more Act didn’t even apply at or near the spill than $1.5 billion. site, and the law contains provisions al“The U.S. Merchant Marine has lowing waivers for specialized foreign played an integral role in our nation’s vessels if such ships are needed and no economic history and national security American ones are available. “The truth and the Jones Act has been our industry’s is, there were no magical foreign ships cornerstone for almost 100 years,” Arntready to handle anything American-flag zen stated. “It’s a good law that provides vessels couldn’t already handle,” he said. our nation with sound, stable, cost-effec“The fact is Jones Act did not inhibit the tive transportation.” cleanup in any way; to the contrary, it He pointed out that the Jones Act fleet helped.” consists of 40,000 vessels that generate He emphasized that plenty of Jones about 500,000 American jobs and more Act tonnage is available to move barrels than $100 billion in yearly economic of gasoline to the northeast this summer output. Arntzen also said that while his “as a result of the various refinery closupport for the law has never been stronsures in the Delaware Bay and the Caribger, he also is greatly concerned about its bean.” future. Along those lines, he also refuted the “Support for the Jones Act in the U.S. suggestion that utilizing Jones Act tonMorten Arntzen runs deep – the law has been supported by nage contributes to high gas prices. President & CEO every president of our generation and we can “This is political math at its worst,” OSG count our Navy among its strongest supportArntzen said. “We are talking about a few ers,” he noted. “The support in Congress repennies of difference. And, because transmains bipartisan and solid. Nevertheless, noise from the portation costs are so insignificant in the pricing equation critics of the Jones Act has grown of late. and Jones Act movements of gasoline are a relatively “Critics of the Jones Act decry it as protectionism,” small part of the supply chain, it won’t move the pricing he continued. “Yes, the Jones Act is sort of protectionist: needle for gasoline at all. At most it will put a penny It protects our industrial base, U.S. jobs and our national or two of profits into an industry that is already more security. During Operations Enduring Freedom and Iraqi than adequately profitable…. Does anyone here think it Freedom, U.S.-flag commercial vessels transported 57 is worth destroying the U.S. maritime industry so the oil percent of all military cargoes moved to Afghanistan and industry in this country might make one or two cents Iraq. The American domestic fleet also provided half more profit selling their internationally priced transportaof the mariners used to crew U.S. government-owned tion fuel products to Americans?” sealift vessels activated from reserve status. The U.S. He concluded, “We, the American shipping industry, Navy’s position is crystal clear: repeal of the Jones Act must band together to protect the Jones Act. Our voices would hamper America’s ability to meet strategic sealift must be loud, our convictions strong and our message requirements and Navy shipbuilding. Does anyone in clear: The Jones Act cannot be weakened if America is this audience think that we have evolved to a conflict- to fulfill its opportunities. Short-term waivers of political free world and that our Navy will never call us into ac- convenience will have an enormous long-term negative tion again?” impact on the industry. I ask all of you to take a few Arntzen pointed out that the U.S.-flag industry as a minutes over the coming weeks to contact your elected whole doesn’t object to waivers of the Jones Act if those officials and tell them how you feel about upholding our waivers truly are necessary because of national emer- country’s maritime traditions and capabilities. Remind gency or when no U.S. vessels are available. By contrast, them of the hundreds of thousands of jobs it creates and the industry objects to waivers such as the ones issued the commerce it facilitates. Tell them our country needs last summer allowing foreign-flag vessels to transport oil the Jones Act to stay.” 6 Seafarers LOG Pictured from left are Ed Morgan, Augie Tellez, Tom Murphy and Tony Naccarato. SIU Exec. VP Rallies Industry To Stand United Against Attacks SIU Executive Vice President Augie Tellez told the audience at the annual Seafarers and International House “Setting the Course” Awards Banquet in New York that the U.S.-flag maritime industry will stand united to repel any and all attacks on its vital issues. Tellez fired up the crowd during his April 26 acceptance speech as a 2012 Outstanding Friend of Seafarers. He was referring to the recent broadsides in the media and in Congress on the Jones Act, cargo preference laws and domestic shipbuilding. Speaking before approximately 300 representatives from both labor and business, Tellez explicitly pointed out his remarks were dedicated to the U.S.-flag industry as a whole. “The legislation, regulations and programs that form the basis for the very existence of the U.S.-flag fleet are in jeopardy,” he stated. “The Jones Act and cargo preference and everything in between is under attack. The challenge before us is how do we respond and meet these challenges?” He said the answer is, “We need to put aside our differences in this battle. We need to coordinate, consolidate and concentrate all of our resources and efforts to thwart these attacks. A clear message must be sent to those who always seem to forget us when the war is over, the mission accomplished, the earthquake passed: We say, no more!” He continued, “To those who look to distort the facts and spread lies to meet their insidious agendas, we say, no more! “To those who rush to diminish and dismiss 70-plus years of our feeding the world and the most successful and effective humanitarian effort of our time, we say, no more! “To those politicians who readily accept our support, financial or otherwise, and look to leave our side in this fight, we say, no more! “And to the rest who know us not, it is high time we let them know who we are and what we do.” Also recognized with the same award by the Seafarers and International House was Thomas Murphy of Crowley Maritime. Murphy proudly spoke about his 60 years in the maritime business. He acknowledged many of the people with whom he has worked over the years in labor relations. The New York-based organization is a mission for seafarers and sojourners affiliated with the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. It operates an 84-room guest house in New York City. June 2012 �SIU officials joined the newly recertified stewards following their graduation for this traditional group photo after the May membership meeting in Piney Point, MD. Pictured from left to right are: Asst. VP Ambrose Cucinotta, Eugene Von Flotow, Pedro Castillo, Juan Vallejo Hernandez and wife Odalys, Executive VP Augie Tellez, Donna Rye, VP West Coast Nick Marrone, Edvaldo Viana, James Brockington, Just Self, Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel, and VP Contracts George Tricker. Recertified Stewards Share Valuable Insights 7 Seafarers Complete Course At Union-Affiliated School Seven individuals recently reached the pinnacles of their respective maritime careers to date when they graduated from the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education’s (PHC) Steward Recertification Course. A three-week in-residence curriculum at the center’s Piney Point, Md., based –campus, the class is billed as highest level of training available to SIU members who sail in the steward department. It encompasses hands-on training, classroom instruction and orientation meetings with representatives from different departments of the SIU and Seafarers Plans. Course modules include ServSafe, which focuses on safe and sanitary galley operations; first aid and CPR; galley firefighting; leadership and management skills; computer training; nutrition; and communications. Graduating from the class and receiving their recertification credentials May 7 during the union’s monthly membership meeting in Piney Point were Stewards Donna (D.J.) Rye, Just Self, Eugene Von Flotow, Pedro Castillo, James Brockington, Juan Vallejo Hernandez and Edvaldo Viana. In keeping with a long-standing tradition, each of the new recertified stewards addressed union officials, fellow upgraders, unlicensed apprentices and guests who attended the meeting. Donna (D.J.) Rye Rye was the first to address the audience. Born in Florida, she joined the SIU in 2001 and has upgraded her skills on two previous occasions at the PHC. “I want to thank our leadership as well as the rank-and-file membership for the honor that’s being bestowed upon me today,” Rye said. She sent out a special thanks to West Coast Vice President Nick Marrone for his endorsement of her to receive the training, a validation which she viewed as instrumental in her being selected. Rye, who currently sails form the Port of Tacoma, Wash., said she learned and retained a great deal of information about the union and its internal operations during her recertification training. “I am excited about and looking forward to sharing this information with the people in my port as well as crew members aboard my vessel,” she said. “Thanks to June 2012 the training I received here, I will be better able to answer questions and articulate our benefits—from basic health care to sickness and accident coverage—to fellow brothers and sisters aboard my ship. “I will also be able to tell my shipmates what Camp Springs is all about as well as aid and assist the recertified bosuns with any problems they encounter aboard our vessel,” she continued. Addressing the trainees who attended the meeting, Rye said, “I’m a loyal and dedicated member and I can tell you that everything you hear and see here today is true…it really is what happens in and with our union. “While you are here, pay attention to what the instructors are telling you,” she continued. “Short of a college education at some place like Harvard, it does not get much better than this. We have some of the finest instructors here as you will find anywhere. They are knowledgeable as well as being seafarers themselves.” Concluding her remarks, Rye told those present that the Seafarers Political Action Donation (SPAD) is critical to the SIU’s future existence and prosperity. “It’s really important that all of our members contribute to SPAD often and keep those funds coming in,” she said. “Without SPAD contributions, our leadership’s ability to fight for the continued perseverance of our rights will be limited.” Just Self Next to take the podium was Self. A native of Long Island, N.Y., he launched his career as a merchant mariner in 1991 while a member of the National Maritime Union. Self is home-ported in the Port of Jacksonville, Fla., and joined the SIU with the 2001 SIU/NMU merger. Although he had never attended the PHC for upgrading, he was at the school in March attending a five-day Alaska Tanker Company-sponsored Safety Leadership and Training Conference. Commenting on his upgrading experience, Self said he was especially impressed with the leadership and management skills instruction he received. “It taught me how to be assertive when necessary,” he said. “It also provided me with an understanding of diversity… the knowledge that differences in people are actually strengths when we all work together towards one goal. Taking this knowledge aboard ship and applying it will make my job more rewarding.” Noting that an array of individuals was responsible for his success as a mariner, he said, “So I won’t miss anybody, I would like to give a big thanks to the entire Seafarers International Union, everyone from our great leadership team to the trainees.” Self also acknowledged the union’s labor and political allies and the respective roles they have played toward keeping the maritime industry strong. He then reminded those present that this is an election year and that it it’s critically important that the entire membership register and vote. “Needless to say, don’t forget to vote and do your part to help protect the Jones Act by supporting SPAD,” he said. Directing his attention to the trainees, Self urged them to take full advantage of everything the school has to offer. “This (the school) offers you a great opportunity for success,” he said. “Take it and make good use of it. Stay focused, work diligently, be true to yourself and always support one another. “Most importantly, learn the trade, not the trick,” he concluded. Eugene Von Flotow Von Flotow hails from the Port of Wilmington, Calif., and joined the union in 1990. He has upgraded his skills at the PHC on two previous occasions. Upon taking the podium, he thanked the union officials for their varied contributions and commended them for acting in the best interest of the rank-and-file membership. “Thanks to Mike (SIU President Michael Sacco), Augie (SIU Executive VP Augie Tellez), and George (VP Contract George Tricker) for their leadership and for inviting me back to Piney Point,” the California native said. “I extend my gratitude to all of the instructors for the knowledge they imparted on all of us,” he continued. “I would also I like to send special thanks to the hotel staff for great accommodations.” Von Flotow told those present that it was a very important day for him because it marked the culmination of a highly enlightening experience. “I’ve gained a better appreciation of how the union works as a result of the great training I received here,” he said. “I now have a better understanding of the benefits we have as well as the reasons why it’s important for members to make contributions to SPAD.” Describing his overall upgrading experience as extremely beneficial, Von Flotow said he was particularly im- pressed with the modules dealing with CPR, firefighting and ServSafe. “All of this training was very important” he said. “The road trip to headquarters also was very informative.” Von Flotow wrapped up his remarks by encouraging members to continue supporting SPAD. Pedro Castillo Castillo told the audience that the PHC is the best school in the world for merchant mariners. “The training I received here was a wonderful experience,” he said. “Thanks to the instructors and the interactions I had with my classmates, I have learned how to be a more professional mariner. I also can now help educate my fellow shipmates on the union and how it works.” A native of Honduras, Castillo is home-ported in Houston and joined the union in Honolulu. Castillo has been sailing under the SIU banner since 1993. “It is such a privilege to be here in front of all of you today celebrating this achievement in my career,” he said. “I cannot stand here and say that it has been easy because being away from family and loved ones has at times been difficult. But it has been well worth the sacrifice and hardship because I have accomplished a lot.” Castillo then thanked God for giving him the strength and patience to advance; and the union as a whole for its continuing support. He expressed his gratitude to union officials at headquarters and those in the ports—especially in Houston and New Orleans—who he said work tirelessly on behalf of the rank-and-file membership on a daily basis. “This journey does not end here for me,” Castillo said. “It’s really just the beginning.” Turning his attention to SPAD, he told the audience that the membership’s continued donations are crucial. “Many of us may think that we are losing money when we donate to SPAD,” he said. “But this is not true because it allows our leadership to get out there and fight for our industry, our jobs and our rights every day.” Castillo’s message to the trainees and fellow upgraders was to “work hard, never give up on your dreams and stay focused on a bright future for yourselves and your families.” Continued on next page Seafarers LOG 7 �OSG Hosts Memorial Golf Tournament Seafarers-contracted Overseas Shipholding Group (OSG) recently hosted the seventh annual Tug Valour Memorial Golf Tournament in Dade City, Fla. Pictured from left to right at the kickoff are OSG Senior VP Capt. Robert Johnston, SIU President Michael Sacco and tournament Chairman John McKenzie. The yearly, non-profit tournament originally was a fund-raiser for surviving family members. It now generates funds to provide maritime education opportunities. The tournament is named after the tug which tragically sank in early 2006, claiming three lives, including that of longtime SIU member Ron Emory. Leon “Bucky” Fountain would like to get in contact with Michael Dunn and/ or Cardell Dunn. Fountain can be reached at (253) 983-0082 (home), or (253) 332-9661 (cell).   SIU-Crewed Hospital Ship Mercy Departs for Humanitarian Mission The hospital ship USNS Mercy, manned in the unlicensed positions by members of the SIU Government Services Division, sailed from San Diego early last month to begin its participation in Pacific Partnership 2012. This year’s Pacific Partnership is a four-and-ahalf month humanitarian and civic assistance mission to Indonesia, the Philippines, Vietnam and Cambodia. CIVMARS aboard the hospital ship will operate and navigate the vessel while U.S. Navy planners and medical personnel plan and execute the ongoing mission. According to the Navy’s Military Sealift Command (MSC), Pacific Partnership 2012 “is a mission that will take medical, dental, veterinary, engineering and civic assistance projects to Southeast Asia and Oceania. Pacific Partnership missions build on relationships that have been developed during previous missions, for example Mercy’s participation in international relief efforts following the December 2004 tsunami that struck Southeast Asia, and Mercy’s 2006, 2008 and 2010 humanitarian and civic assistance deployments to the region.” The agency further reported that Pacific Partnership 2012 is led by three different element commanders: Navy Capt. James Morgan, mission commander for Pacific Partnership 2012 and commander of San Diego-based Destroyer Squadron Seven; Navy Capt. Timothy Hinman, commander of the medical treatment facility, who is responsible for the hospital and providing medical care aboard the Mercy and ashore; and Capt. Jonathan Olmsted, the Mercy’s civil service master who has overall responsibility for the ship and the safety of its nearly 1,000 passengers. “Having participated in Pacific Partnership 2009, I know firsthand what an impact we have on the local populations we visit,” said Olmsted. “In building these relationships, we’ll have a better understanding of how multiple militaries and civilian organizations can work together to overcome the adversity of a natural disaster.” Throughout the 2012 Pacific Partnership mission, the 894-foot Mercy will serve as a platform from which U.S. and partner nation militaries and non-governmental organizations will coordinate and carry out humanitarian and civic activities in each country. The Japanese landing ship tank Oosumi (LST 4001), carrying a complete medical team, helicopters and representatives from Japanese volunteer organizations, will join the Mercy during its stops in the Philippines and Vietnam. In announcing this year’s assignment, MSC described civilian mariners as “vital to the mission’s success. They navigate the ship to each mission stop and provide the freshwater and electricity needed to run the shipboard hospital and to support the mission personnel living and working aboard. In addition, the civil service mariners play a critical role in mission success by operating two 33-foot utility boats to transport patients and mission personnel between ship’s anchorage and shore. Mercy is too large to pull pier-side at any of the mission stops. The operation of these small boats, which can carry more than twice as many passengers as Mercy’s two embarked helicopters, will greatly increase the number of people who will benefit from the mission.” The mission will include personnel from all branches of the U.S. military; U.S. departments of State and Justice; the Agency for International Development; the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Association; 12 partner nations; 11 NGOs and numerous in-country organizations. Recertified Stewards Laud Union Officials, Paul Hall Center Continued from Page 7 James Brockington “I have been sailing for 12 years and it’s good to be here,” Brockington said as he addressed his union brothers and sisters. He donned the SIU colors in 2001 in Hawaii and calls the Port of Honolulu home. Brockington has upgraded twice previously at the Paul Hall Center. “I enjoyed all aspects of the upgrading training regiment,” he said. “The refresher modules in ServSafe and sanitation were very informative, and the instruction in union education extremely helpful. “It showed how the union functions and how our leadership interacts with other organizations to foster a strong U.S. Merchant Marine,” he continued. “As a result of this training, I am better equipped to represent the unlicensed members during times of disagreement between officers and crew aboard ships. Now, I can also answer questions about contracts and benefits.” A native of Philadelphia, Brockington said, “It’s always good to return to Piney Point because you see people you know and have worked with during the past. But it’s especially meaningful for me today because I have achieved a goal that I set for myself when I first started sailing…it’s a real sense of achievement.” Brockington told those in the audience that they should always remember the importance of upgrading, SPAD and union education. “In the upgrading arena, continue to come back to school. The instructors are here are world-class and the knowledge you acquire will make you become the best trained mariners in the world,” he said. “You will then be able to contribute to the security of America, the safety of America and the safety of the free world. 8 Seafarers LOG “Contribute to SPAD because it allows us to support those who support us in Congress, regardless of the side of the aisle on which they sit,” he continued. “It helps to keep strong laws that support the U.S. merchant fleet and safeguard our jobs. Along the same lines, go out and vote because it’s very important this year. It does not matter who you vote for as long as they support a strong merchant marine and the laws that protect it.” To the trainees, Brockington said, “Study hard, learn and come back to upgrade because when you get out to sea, you will carry your own load and be part of a team. “If you don’t know something, ask,” he continued, “because you can be dangerous to yourself and your fellow shipmates if you don’t. Always have a good word to say about your shipmates and remember safety first.” In closing, Brockington voiced his deep appreciation to everyone who has contributed to his successful career and for the training he has received. “I’d like to thank all of the union officials for the wonderful job they do on our behalf,” he said. “I’d also like to say thanks to the instructors for their knowledge and to the hotel staff for the wonderful accommodations.” Juan Vallejo Returning to the PHC was a homecoming for Vallejo, who has upgraded at the school on four previous occasions. Born in Venezuela, he sails out of the Port of San Juan and has been a member of the SIU since 2001. “Today, I am graduating as a recertified steward,” Vallejo said upon taking the podium. “But 12 years ago, I went to Puerto Rico after being laid off from an airline in Miami Airport where I had been employed for six years.” Vallejo pointed out that it was at that juncture in his life, when he was in a desperate situation and in need of a friendly helping hand that the SIU hall in San Juan came to his rescue. “They sent me here to this wonderful place (Paul Hall Center),” he said, “And that was when my life took a 180-degree turn for the better.” Thanks to the SIU, Vallejo said, life for him these days could not be better. “Today I own various properties in Florida and Puerto Rico,” he proudly told those at the meeting. “My kids are attending the best private schools, my wife is driving a brand new car, and I look younger than I did 12 years ago.” Vallejo told the audience that his career has taught him that opportunities themselves are great only when people take advantage of them. “It is not up to your port agent or anybody else to take that first step for you,” he said. “You need to take it upon yourselves to move forward in life by taking advantage of all the blessings this great organization has to offer.” He added, “The SIU has been a true blessing not only for me, but also for everyone else who has stepped forward and accepted the challenge of becoming a highly trained maritime professional,” he continued. “We have the best-paying jobs in the maritime industry. But that’s not a secret because that’s what the SIU does. It provides job security for its members and secures a future in the maritime industry for generations to come.” Vallejo then encouraged Seafarers to support SPAD, and thanked the union leadership, his instructors, the hotel management and staff, his classmates and members of his family (especially his wife, Odalys, and his sons Juan Carlos and Juan Andres) for making his career a successful one. Edvaldo Viana Viana was the final new recertified steward to address the audience. The Brazilian-born mariner is home-ported in New York and has been a proud and loyal SIU member for 12 years. A frequent upgrader, Viana has enhanced his skills at the Southern Maryland-based campus on six previous occasions. “During those times as well as on this occasion, I had great experiences and learned a great deal,” he said. During his recertification training, Viana picked up excellent tips and other information about the union’s benefits plans and how the organization works. “I learned about the important alliance that our union has with the AFL-CIO, the Maritime Trades Department and how those relationships work to benefit us all. I also learned about the importance of SPAD contributions,” he said. “These are important and I ask each of you to make contributions because through them, our union leaders can keep building the bridges and making the connections in the political arena that protect the Jones Act and our jobs.” Viana thanked the union’s elected officials for what he called their superb leadership and willingness to keep fighting on behalf of the rankand-file membership. “President Mike Sacco is number one and the SIU is the best,” he said. He also expressed high praise to the school’s instructors and hotel staffs for all they did for him and his classmates during their stay. “To the unlicensed apprentices, I strongly recommend that you keep up with your studies and come back to the Paul Hall Center to upgrade your skills as often as possible,” Viana concluded. “This great school will give you a wonderful education and open the doors to a better way of life.” June 2012 �HORIZON CONSUMER HOUSTON HALL Membership Votes Yes to New Standard Contracts Pictured on this page are Seafarers aboard ships and at the union halls voting in favor of the new standard contracts (or shown shortly after doing so). Additional related photos will be published in an upcoming issue of the LOG. The new agreements take effect July 1 and last through June 2017. HORIZON KODIAK JACKSONVILLE HALL OVERSEAS MARTINEZ SEALAND COMET GEM, KEYSTONE & GRAND CANYON STATES PINEY POINT June 2012 USNS ALGOL HORIZON PACIFIC OAKLAND HALL OCEAN CRESCENT USNS MENDONCA & USNS BRITTIN HONOLULU HALL WILMINGTON HALL Seafarers LOG 9 �SEAFARERS IN CHARM CITY – Baltimore-area members and officials recently carried on their tradition of donating to a local food pantry backed by organized labor. In the photo above (from left), Patrolman Ken Horner, Jay Smith of the local AFL-CIO Community Services department and Recertified Steward Lauren Oram help deliver some of the donations. In the photo at left, Port Agent Elizabeth Brown greets Bosun Rodney Roberson at the union hall. At Sea and Ashore with the SIU FULL BOOKS IN NORFOLK – Three Seafarers recently received their full membership books at the hall in Norfolk, Va. Pictured from left are Oiler Bernard Wade, SA Merly Ford and GVA William Grow. ABOARD MAERSK WYOMING – AB El Sayed Mohamed (photo at right) stands on pirate lookout aboard the Maersk Wyoming as the vessel transits the Bab el-Mandeb Strait in the Red Sea. No pirate activity was encountered, reported vessel master Capt. Kevin G. Coulombe, who submitted this photo. The captain also reported that during 2011, the ship participated in a company-sponsored fund raising campaign for the United Seamen’s Service. Mariners raised more than $1,000, which was matched by Maersk Line, Limited. “The ship was awarded a USS banner for its effort,” Coulombe noted. “Pictured in the other photo are SIU Bosun Lech Jankowski and Chief Mate Scott Reed who accepted the banner on behalf of the SIU crew and MM&P officers who contributed. The banner is on public display in the saloon passageway and will go on permanent display in the ship’s trophy hall.” BOOK PRESENTATION IN OAKLAND – SIU Asst. VP Nick Celona (right) presents Seafarer Nagi Obad with his full B-seniority book at the union hall in Oakland, Calif. Obad’s most recent ship was Maersk’s USNS 1st LT Jack Lummus. ABOARD ALASKAN LEGEND – Patrolman Nick Marrone II serviced Alaska Tanker Company’s Alaskan Legend in mid-April. Pictured aboard the tanker are (photo at above left, from left) Capt. Andrew Wakefield and Bosun Alvin Martin, (photo at immediate left) Recertified Steward Jeffrey Smith and (remaining photo, from left) Chief Cook Johnson Ashun and Marrone. ABOARD OVERSEAS TAMPA – Oakland Safety Director Kathy Chester (third from right) emailed this photo of SIU members aboard the Overseas Tampa. Pictured are Recertified Bosun Joseph Caruso, Recertified Steward George Monseur, Chief Cook Erni Lizada, GUDE Rezk Mohamed, QEP Scott Fuller and SA Abdulsalam Omar. GUDE George Galanis took the photo. 10 Seafarers LOG June 2012 �Recollections from the Murmansk Run Editor’s note: The October and November 2011 and March and May 2012 editions of the Seafarers LOG featured the first four installments of an occasional series written by retired mariner Ed Woods, who first shipped out at age 16, during World War II. LOG readers were introduced to Woods’ writing when he shared a separate story that was published off and on from September 2010 to July 2011. “Recollections from the Murmansk Run” is a combination of Woods relaying the accounts of an old shipmate and filling in the blanks “with what I think could have taken place, based on my own war-time experiences at sea. For this reason, I call this narrative a non-fiction novel.” The names of the main character (Johnny Johnston) and his vessels are fictional. The most recent installment ended in 1944 as Johnston and some of his shipmates from the S/S John Henry had scrambled into a lifeboat after their vessel had been torpedoed while sailing from an icy group of islands called Franz Josef Land. The World War II convoys to the Russian ports of Murmansk and Archangel were dangerous and often deadly. Dozens of American-flag ships were sunk on the Murmansk Run, including many SIU-crewed vessels. Altogether, it is believed that 57 Allied ships were lost in convoys to north Russia. T hat night, the sun went down and there was a drop in temperature. It must have been at the freezing point; at least it felt that way. Then shortly, a freezing rain came down. We were miserable and those who weren’t rowing or taking their turn under the spray curtain sat down and huddled together. Thank God, the U.S. Coast Guard regulations required certain equipment to be kept in all lifeboats and we put it to good use. For one, there were blankets in waterproof wrappings that we passed around. If anyone had ever told these sailors that one day they would be happy to cuddle up together, he would have been called crazy. But cuddle we did and it helped against the cold. Came morning and the weather was still wretched. During the night, one of the deckhands, a young ordinary seaman, developed a fever and lost consciousness. We could do nothing to help him other than to move him to the bow under the curtain and try to keep him warm. It was of no use, and he died in less than an hour. One of his mates said that the lad had not been feeling well since we left Spitsbergen. The chief said, “May the boy rest in peace. We must say a prayer for him and give his earthly body over to the sea.” The bosun said aloud, “We must be practical, strip his body and give what clothing he has to those of us who have the least.” At the moment, his words sounded cold–hearted and disrespectful; however, the chief agreed with him and that is what we did: slipped a naked young body over the side. The bosun asked us to say the prayer, Our Father. I was shivering and wondering how I would get through the day or ever again reach dry warm land. The chief mate admitted that due to the storm-tossed seas he had lost his bearings. He said that he had always had a knack for dead reckoning but he needed something to aid him with this type of navigation. All he had now was his compass and the sun and, unfortunately, there had been little of the latter. The rain continued without letup and there was no way for any of us to keep dry or warm. The bosun, who had been relived at the helm, began to sob uncontrollably. Then he began to shout that God had deserted him and was punishing him for his past misdeeds. The chief told him to be quiet and try to control himself. “I’ll show you how I can control myself,” he shouted, and jumped overboard and disappeared without a trace beneath the rough unfriendly seas. We suffered through another day and night of cold and rain. I wondered who would be next to give up and die. I made a promise that I would do anything to stay alive. I would not quit. There was so much I wanted to do in this world. Dying cold, wet and hungry was not one of my goals. I don’t know who called out first but, as the morning fog lifted, someone called in a loud voice, “That’s land ahead!” Surely enough, directly in front of our bow was good old terra firma. As weak as we all were, we pulled on the oars with new restored energy. In a few minutes, a boat came out to meet us. It had a big gun aimed directly at our lifeboat. A man aboard the vessel shouted to us in a foreign language that we recognized as Norwegian. The chief replied in English, “We’re survivors of the American ship John Henry, torpedoed and sunk by a German submarine. We need food, shelter and medical aid; please help us.” The man answered in accented English, “Of course. I’ll toss you a line and tow you to the pier at the American weather station. Welcome to Jan Mayen.” An American weather station – I could hardly believe it! The Norwegians tied their boat to the pier and then secured our lifeboat next to theirs. We were so stiff and in such bad shape that we had to be helped out of the boat onto the little pier. June 2012 A young man introduced himself: “I’m Ken Morgan, Lieutenant Ken Morgan, United States Navy, the commanding officer of this weather station.” The chief told him who we were and explained how we found ourselves in this predicament. Lieutenant Morgan said, “Welcome, we are limited in what we can offer you but we will do the best we can. We do have a medical doctor here with us, Lieutenant Saunders; I’ll send for him. In the meantime, let’s get all of you up to our station headquarters.” Within a few minutes, we were served hot coffee and rolls; Lt. Saunders arrived and cautioned us against eating too much the first day. “I have a good supply of Vitamin C tablets and I want all of you to take some. Finish your rolls and coffee and then don’t eat any more for a few hours.” The doctor arranged for all of us to have a hot shower and a change of clothes. Finding the clothes for us was a problem, as there were only six American Navy personnel at the station. He told one of the enlisted men to go to the Norwegian compound and ask if they could spare any clothing, especially heavy winter clothing. We learned a few facts about the island. For one, it was a Norwegian possession and they maintained a small weather and communication post year-round on the other side of the island. The United States had been given permission to establish their own weather and communications station. Morgan explained that it was important to know the weather in this area of the Arctic Ocean because it was a good indication of what the weather would be in Europe over the next few days. The information was forwarded to our naval personnel in London on a daily basis for their review. The next day, June 6, 1944, we were listening to a shortwave news broadcast from the British Broadcasting System in London. The reception was much better than we ever received aboard ship. The announcer was interrupted to erect a small, sturdy building. When Mr. Smith asked Morgan about the material, he was told, “That stuff was brought here long before I arrived. I have looked it over and thought it would be great to have a stronger and bigger building, especially during the winter storms but I don’t have the manpower or the know-how to put it together.” The chief mate called the John Henry survivors to a meeting that evening after supper and told us that he had an idea. He said, if implemented, it would serve a dual purpose. “One, it would help pay back the meteorologists for their hospitality. Where would we be without them? Next, it would keep us busy and out of trouble. We must try to keep in good physical shape. Let’s keep in mind, we have no idea what the future holds for us, do we? I’m suggesting that we take all of this material that is sitting here and serving no purpose, and put it together and show the Navy what merchant seamen can do.” Everyone, to a man, agreed with him and the next morning we started right in with the assembly of the new building. First, we visited the Norwegians on the other side of the island and borrowed tools. All the work was to be done manually; no power tools were available and if there were, there would be a problem getting an adequate supply of electricity. There were a number of small generators available but only a limited supply of fuel and that was needed for cooking and heating. I was surprised, but I should not have been, at the talents and skills of my mates. Each of them contributed to the construction of the building. It took three weeks and at the end, Morgan had a first-rate, three-room sturdy structure to use. He and his team of meteorologists moved in that day. The new building was more insulated, had more windows to give added daylight, and each of the three entrance doors had a small foyer to help stop the wind and cold from entering. In this U.S. Navy photo from September 2010, the guided-missile frigate USS Taylor is moored in Murmansk, Russia, to celebrate the close World War II alliance between Russia and the U.S., and to honor veterans in both countries on the 65th anniversary of the end of World War II. and a different voice told the world that the invasion of Europe had begun that morning on the beaches of Normandy, France. I had a feeling of being left out of worldly events. I had sailed to fight the enemy, to help win the war, yet here I was on a remote island in the Arctic Ocean. I had only been a seaman for less than six months, had my first ship bombed and my second sunk and now the fight was in Europe and here I was in the middle of nowhere. I asked the weather station personnel if they had heard from any other John Henry survivors. They hadn’t. While I was concerned about all the crew, I was especially concerned about Larry. I had only known him a short time but we had become close friends. He had become one of the few guys I could confide in and discuss my inner feelings. I didn’t used to pray much but lately, when I did, I included Larry in my prayers and asked for his safety. The Germans had occupied all of mainland Norway and it had been expected they also would take over Jan Mayen; however, they never did. Lieutenant Morgan believed the Germans thought it would be too difficult to hold on to or supply due to the strong nearby British navy presence. However, if the Germans decided to take possession neither he nor the Norwegians could stop them. Mr. Smith told him about Captain Behlmer trading guns and ammo for fuel and food with the Norwegians at Spitsbergen. Morgan replied that the folks at Spitsbergen would not be able to keep a German invasion force from taking the island. “The Germans would have more arms and more men than we have here. No, the Germans would be much too powerful to stop.” Morgan agreed to include a coded message when he next radioed the authorities in London telling of our arrival and our need to be rescued. In the meantime, all we could do is wait and be thankful that we were on dry land. All of us were looking for something to do to break the monotony. Sometime in the past, a large quantity of building supplies had been delivered to the island, an amount sufficient Morgan was so pleased with our work that he decided to have a party to celebrate the occasion. It was the first gathering in the new building. Morgan persuaded the Norwegians to donate bottles of homemade whiskey and their cook brought over trays of assorted sandwiches. We felt good, knowing we had done something to show our appreciation. Morgan had news for us. He had been in radio contact with London and learned that arrangements were being made for a ship to call at Jan Mayen with supplies for the weather station and to return the John Henry survivors to England. Two weeks later, a British ship with a Chinese crew arrived and anchored off shore. There were no docking facilities on Jan Mayen and the water level near the island was too shallow for large vessels. We wanted to go right out to the anchorage and go aboard but it was decided it was best if we waited until the supplies were offloaded. Bringing the supplies ashore in small boats took a full week. Finally, we said our goodbyes and gave our thanks to the Norwegians, Lieutenant Morgan and his meteorology team and rode out on a water taxi to the HMS Henry 8th. We were disappointed (I want to say shocked, but I guess it wouldn’t be polite or friendly) with the sleeping quarters and the food aboard the HMS Henry 8th. Mr. Smith told us that we were spoiled. American ships were the cleanest and the American crews the best-fed of all mariners and we were now dealing with other cultures. He then cautioned us against making any rude remarks: “Remember, we’re guests aboard this ship and it’s our first step in our journey home to the States.” We sailed the next morning, expecting a port in Great Britain to be our next port of call. Mr. Smith suggested that we volunteer to stand lookout or perform whatever other chores the ship’s captain needed. Two days later, we were told that our next port would be Liverpool. I was happy to hear this, as I thought for sure I would be able to get a berth there aboard a ship heading back to the States. Seafarers LOG 11 �President Obama Issues Proclamation For Maritime Day ‘You Are the Fourth Arm of Defense’ Military Leaders, DOT Secretary Praise Contributions of U.S. Mariners S aluting the bravery and reliability of U.S. Merchant Mariners throughout American history, the respective heads of the U.S. Transportation Command, Military Sealift Command and Department of Transportation praised their work during the traditional National Maritime Day ceremonies May 22 in Washington, D.C. SIU headquarters officials were among the hundreds of guests at the morning ceremony hosted by DOT and at the afternoon session at the Washington Navy Yard. Apprentices from the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education also were on hand – and two of them were featured in the ceremonies. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood delivered the keynote speech at the first gathering, while Gen. William Fraser, commander, U.S. Transportation Command, was the featured speaker both at MSC’s ceremony and at a midday luncheon hosted by the Propeller Club. (Fraser also spoke at the Transportation Department event.) Other speakers throughout the day included Rear Adm. Mark Buzby, commander, MSC; and Rear Adm. William Eisenhardt, president, California Maritime Academy. Additionally, Horizon Lines Vice President Bill Hamlin accepted awards from the Maritime Administration on behalf of mariners from the Seafarers-crewed Horizon Reliance, honored for a rescue that took place earlier this year. The SIU contingent included President Michael Sacco, Executive Vice President Augie Tellez, Vice President Contracts George Tricker, Piney Point Port Agent Pat Vandegrift and Legislative Director Brian Schoeneman. Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel represented the union at a separate event hosted by the United Seamen’s Service in Washington (a forum where the main topic was mariner access to shore leave). Apprentices Joseph Knapp and Randolph Harrell played formal roles in both the DOT and MSC ceremonies. Fraser, LaHood and Buzby each paid tribute to the U.S. Merchant Marine’s service in every conflict throughout our nation’s history and also emphasized the critical need to maintain a strong American-flag fleet. “You are a big part of America’s capabilities to keep our supply lines open and to support our troops, and I can’t thank you enough for that,” Fraser stated. “You’re the fourth arm of defense. It’s your bravery and your valor that makes the waterways safer and more efficient every single day. And our ability to defend our nation and our interests around the globe relies heavily on your creativity and your ingenuity…. You have continually delivered for the war fighter.” Fraser repeatedly pointed out the cost-effectiveness of the military’s reliance on the commercial maritime sector. He also said that the Defense Department “could not do our job without the superb relationships that we have with our commercial industry and our U.S. mariners. You are absolutely essential to the greatest military in our history.” Speaking to representatives from every component of the industry, he stated, “I want to thank you personally for everything that you do – for your faithful and tireless service to deliver America’s arsenal and humanitarian aid every nautical mile around the world. Throughout our history you’ve always been there, and you continue to be there. You’re the backbone of America’s ability to project power wherever and whenever it is called upon.” LaHood said that the U.S. has always been a maritime nation, and today, “America’s merchant mariners are essential to both our nation’s strength and our economy…. When called upon to support our nation’s military operations, mariners and their vessels do no shy away from danger.” He said President Obama sees the maritime industry as “a vital building block for an America built to last.” Continued on next page Clockwise from above, SIU VP Contracts George Tricker chats with UA Randolph Harrell, prior to the start of the Military Sealift Command (MSC) Maritime Day ceremony at the Washington Navy Yard. Rear Adm. Mark Buzby, MSC commander, delivers opening remarks at his command’s Maritime Day event while SIU Legislative Director Brian Schoeneman, SIU Executive VP Augie Tellez and SIU President Michael Sacco applaud a speaker during the Department of Transportation (DOT) ceremony. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood and Gen. WIlliam Fraser, commander, U.S. Transportation Command, deliver remarks during the DOT event as UA Jason Knapp stands behind the wreath that he presented during the MSC ceremony. Unlicensed Apprentice Harrell rings a bell in honor of deceased mariners during the MSC event while President Sacco, Horizon Lines VP Bill Hamlin and Executive VP Tellez pose with the medal that was presented by the U.S. Maritime Administration on behalf of mariners aboard the SIU-crewed Horizon Reliance who earlier this year performed a daring rescue at sea of three distressed sailors. 12 Seafarers LOG For 237 years, the men and women of the United States Merchant Marine have risen to meet our country’s call. They have strengthened our economy and our security in times of calm and conflict, connecting our service members to the supplies they need and transporting our exports into the global marketplace. On National Maritime Day, we pay tribute to all those who have served and sacrificed on our waterways and around the world. From privateers who bravely fought for American independence to mariners who have supported our Armed Forces for over two centuries, the United States Merchant Marine carries forward an enduring legacy of service to our Nation. In the War of 1812, mariners put their lives on the line to preserve our young Republic, engaging British warships with sloops and schooners off our Atlantic coast. During World War II, they executed perilous transits to support our troops in combat. And throughout the 20th century and into the 21st, Merchant Mariners have contributed to the defense of our Nation by transporting essential cargo to ports across the globe. Their commitment has helped deliver us through periods of conflict, and their service will remain a critical asset to our security in the years ahead. Our maritime industry also sustains the robust domestic and international trade networks that power our economy. As we open up new markets for American exports and support our businesses here at home, the United States Merchant Marine will continue to play a vital role in driving progress and prosperity in communities across our country. Today, we commemorate that important work, and we honor the mariners who dedicate their lives to seeing it through. The Congress, by a joint resolution approved May 20, 1933, has designated May 22 of each year as “National Maritime Day,” and has authorized and requested the President to issue annually a proclamation calling for its appropriate observance. NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of America, do hereby proclaim May 22, 2012, as National Maritime Day. I call upon the people of the United States to mark this observance and to display the flag of the United States at their homes and in their communities. I also request that all ships sailing under the American flag dress ship on that day. IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this twenty-second day of May, in the year of our Lord two thousand twelve, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirtysixth. BARACK OBAMA June 2012 June 2012 Seafarers LOG 13 �A large crowd converged on the U.S. Department of Transportation May 22 to witness and participate in the first of several Maritime Day ceremonies scheduled in Washington D.C. In the photo above, Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood (standing at podium) delivers his keynote address. SIU President Michael Sacco (right) chats with a contingent of unlicensed apprentices from the union-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md., just prior to the start of the Maritime Day ceremony at the U.S. Department of Transportation. Ceremonies Honor U.S. Merchant Marine’s Valiant History Continued from Page 13 LaHood added that the nation needs to modernize its transportation infrastructure, and he also reiterated the administration’s support for (among other programs) the Title XI shipbuilding loan guarantee initiative. He concluded, “Our future – the maritime industry’s future – is brighter than ever.” Buzby pointed out that his agency and the U.S. Merchant Marine “have been partners since this command’s beginning at the end of World War II…. Merchant mariners have been part of America’s prosperity and security” from the nation’s first days. He continued, “Right now, today, the American Merchant Marine is delivering the supplies and gear that deployed U.S. ground troops need to do their mission.” Buzby listed the many different types of vessels upon which civilian mariners sail, and then added, “More than 80 percent of the U.S. war fighters’ needs are carried by sea. It is U.S. Merchant Mariners who crew the ships and deliver the goods anywhere and everywhere in the world. We at MSC are proud of our civilian mariners, so it is fitting that today is set aside to acknowledge the great debt of gratitude we owe to the dedicated men and women of the U.S. Merchant Marine.” In the day’s final presentation, Fraser good-naturedly wondered aloud how his staff scheduled him to deliver three speeches in one day, but he was quite serious in recalling the U.S. Merchant Ma- rine’s heroic performance in World War II. He said the nation’s mariners suffered a casualty rate greater than that of any of the armed forces, but they never hesitated to keep returning to sea. Fraser noted that people have different reasons for joining the merchant marine, but no matter their individual motivations, “they all risked their lives so that all of us here today might also have the opportunity of the American dream.” He concluded by stating the merchant marine’s peace-time role is very impor- tant in strengthening our economy, and in times of war, “the merchant marine is the lifeline of our troops overseas. They are advancing the cause of freedom. In short, you all are the backbone of America’s ability to present power, wherever and whenever it’s needed. Today’s merchant mariners are truly a tribute to the generations of men and women who’ve served our nation in every single conflict in America’s history. It’s an understatement when we say that we count on you. We absolutely depend on you.” Members of the Alexandria, Va.-based U.S. Coast Guard Honor Guard (above) await the start of the Maritime Day ceremony at the U.S. Department of Transportation while members of the U.S. Navy Ceremonial Guard Firing Party (below) render the 21-gun salute during the Military Sealift Command event at the Washington Navy Yard. 14 Seafarers LOG June 2012 �July & August Membership Meetings Dispatchers’ Report for Deep Sea April 16, 2012 - May 15, 2012 Piney Point.................................Monday: July 2, August 6 Total Registered All Groups A B C Total Shipped All Groups Trip A B C Reliefs Registered on Beach All Groups A B C Algonac.........................................Friday: July 6, August 10 Port Baltimore..................................Thursday: July 5, August 9 Deck Department Algonac 5 7 4 8 3 3 1 6 11 3 Anchorage 1 1 1 2 0 0 1 2 2 1 Baltimore 6 8 0 5 6 2 1 6 9 0 Fort Lauderdale 14 20 1 13 10 0 11 23 30 0 Guam 0 4 1 1 3 1 1 3 6 0 Honolulu 9 2 1 9 2 0 2 11 9 10 Houston 58 18 2 42 18 1 18 83 22 6 Jacksonville 32 23 0 24 27 1 21 58 38 4 Joliet 2 3 2 3 2 0 0 1 5 2 Mobile 7 2 1 7 1 0 2 15 8 2 New Orleans 17 5 3 15 5 0 7 25 8 5 New York 46 27 2 29 16 2 19 82 36 5 Norfolk 14 27 5 10 7 1 5 26 50 6 Oakland 24 8 0 15 6 0 6 42 15 1 Philadelphia 5 4 0 6 6 0 5 8 10 0 Piney Point 1 1 0 1 0 0 1 2 3 0 Puerto Rico 3 6 1 7 5 1 6 11 14 0 Seattle 43 25 3 28 15 2 26 63 31 5 St. Louis 3 4 1 2 1 0 0 4 5 1 Wilmington 17 21 3 14 9 1 10 39 51 13 TOTALS 307 216 31 241 142 15 143 510 363 64 Guam....................................Thursday: July 19, August 23 Honolulu....................................Friday: July 13, August 17 Houston......................................Monday: July 9, August 13 Jacksonville...............................Thursday: July 5, August 9 Joliet......................................Thursday: July 12, August 16 Mobile................................Wednesday: July 11, August 15 New Orleans.................................Tuesday: July 10, August 14 New York.................................Tuesday: July 3, August 7 Norfolk...................................Thursday: July 5, August 9 Oakland..................................Thursday: July 12, August 16 Philadelphia.......*Thursday: July 5,Wednesday: August 8 Port Everglades......................Thursday: July 12, August 16 San Juan...................................Thursday: July 5, August 9 St. Louis......................................Friday: July 13, August 17 Tacoma.......................................Friday: July 20, August 24 Wilmington..................................Monday: July 16, August 20 * Philadelphia change created by Independence Day holiday Each port’s meeting starts at 10:30 a.m. Absentee Ballot Procedures Elections for the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU are scheduled for later this year. As in past SIU election years, a comprehensive guide will be published in the Seafarers LOG prior to the balloting. In the case of members eligible to vote who believe they will be at sea during the Nov. 1 through Dec. 31, 2012 voting period or who otherwise think they will need absentee ballots, absentee ballots will be available. The SIU constitution ensures that members who are eligible to vote and who find themselves in this situation may vote. Procedures are established in the SIU constitution to safeguard the secret ballot election, including the absentee ballot process. Here is the procedure to follow when requesting an absentee ballot: 1. Make the request in writing to the SIU office of the secretary-treasurer, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. 2. Include in the request the correct address where the absentee ballot should be mailed. 3. Send the request for an absentee ballot by registered or certified mail. 4. The registered or certified mail envelope must be postmarked no later than midnight, Nov. 15, 2012 and must be received at 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746 no later than Nov. 25, 2012. 5. The secretary-treasurer, after confirming eligibility, will send by registered mail, return receipt requested, to the address designated in the request, a ballot, together with an envelope marked “Ballot” and a mailing envelope no later than Nov. 30, 2012. 6. Upon receiving the ballot and envelope, vote by marking the ballot. After voting the ballot, place the ballot in the envelope marked “Ballot.” Do not write on the “Ballot” envelope. 7. Place the envelope marked “Ballot” in the mailing envelope which is imprinted with the mailing address of the bank depository where all ballots are sent. 8. Sign the mailing envelope on the first line of the upper lefthand corner. Print name and book number on the second line. The mailing envelope is selfaddressed and stamped. 9. The mailing envelope must be postmarked no later than midnight, Dec. 31, 2012 and received by the bank depository no later than Jan. 5, 2013. National Maritime Center Website Provides Valuable Mariner Resources The National Maritime Center (NMC), the licensing authority for the U.S. Coast Guard, offers a comprehensive website covering mariner credentialing, medical guidelines and much more. The site features a wide range of applications and forms, deck- and engine-department exam information, lists of Coast Guardapproved courses and more. June 2012 Seafarers are encouraged to check out the site at:http:// www.uscg.mil/nmc/ Mariners may call the NMC at 1-888-IASKNMC (1-888427-5662). Operational hours are 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. EST, Monday through Friday. (The NMC is closed for all federal holidays.) Various email forms also are available through the NMC web site. Engine Department Algonac 1 1 0 1 1 2 0 1 6 4 Anchorage 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 1 Baltimore 9 6 1 2 6 0 3 9 7 1 3 4 1 5 4 0 5 8 5 1 Fort Lauderdale Guam 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 5 0 0 Honolulu 2 4 2 5 0 0 2 20 5 2 Houston 15 14 0 15 11 0 12 28 23 1 Jacksonville 22 15 1 17 13 0 8 36 33 2 Joliet 1 0 1 0 1 1 0 2 1 0 Mobile 6 4 0 3 1 0 1 12 6 0 New Orleans 4 1 2 1 2 0 1 9 3 2 New York 16 10 1 12 6 0 4 31 17 2 Norfolk 6 11 0 7 14 0 5 33 28 2 Oakland 10 2 0 6 4 0 5 20 18 0 Philadelphia 4 3 0 3 3 0 2 6 1 0 Piney Point 1 3 1 0 0 0 0 3 2 1 Puerto Rico 3 4 2 1 6 1 1 5 14 1 Seattle 12 7 0 9 5 0 5 18 16 0 St. Louis 1 1 0 0 1 0 0 3 3 0 Wilmington 5 11 4 3 7 1 4 13 20 4 TOTALS 122 102 16 90 85 5 58 262 210 24 Steward Department Algonac 6 4 0 2 5 1 0 6 1 4 Anchorage 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 Baltimore 5 1 1 3 1 0 0 4 0 1 Fort Lauderdale 6 2 0 13 1 0 7 13 7 2 Guam 1 3 0 1 0 0 0 3 3 0 Honolulu 14 2 1 3 2 1 2 24 5 0 Houston 13 5 0 16 2 1 8 25 12 0 Jacksonville 13 7 1 13 9 0 10 26 8 1 Joliet 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 0 Mobile 3 0 1 4 0 0 0 7 4 1 New Orleans 3 2 1 5 0 0 2 11 5 2 New York 21 7 0 12 5 0 6 33 10 0 10 9 1 3 7 2 3 22 20 1 Norfolk Oakland 14 4 2 12 0 0 8 34 6 2 Philadelphia 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 Piney Point 5 0 0 1 0 0 0 2 3 0 Puerto Rico 3 0 0 2 0 0 1 5 1 0 18 10 0 9 4 0 6 30 8 0 Seattle St. Louis 3 0 1 0 0 0 0 2 1 1 Wilmington 25 2 6 14 2 0 9 46 6 2 TOTALS 163 58 15 114 38 5 62 293 103 17 Entry Department Algonac 1 5 14 0 3 1 0 5 7 23 Anchorage 0 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 0 Baltimore 0 4 2 1 1 1 0 1 8 2 2 6 3 0 7 0 2 2 14 5 Fort Lauderdale Guam 0 2 1 0 1 0 0 0 4 1 2 5 5 1 1 3 0 5 12 8 Honolulu Houston 2 10 3 2 10 2 4 2 24 6 Jacksonville 1 20 16 1 11 4 1 4 27 20 Joliet 0 1 1 0 1 0 0 0 0 3 Mobile 1 1 3 0 0 0 0 1 4 5 New Orleans 1 2 2 0 3 0 1 2 3 8 New York 2 31 11 9 15 1 1 11 62 32 0 19 15 0 9 3 0 1 40 31 Norfolk Oakland 2 12 6 3 10 1 4 2 22 13 Philadelphia 1 1 3 0 0 0 0 1 4 5 Piney Point 0 4 12 0 3 23 0 0 9 12 Puerto Rico 1 0 1 0 0 0 0 2 2 2 Seattle 2 18 5 4 6 0 3 6 24 9 St. Louis 0 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 3 0 Wilmington 3 14 7 5 7 2 5 13 38 34 TOTALS 21 159 110 26 88 41 21 58 309 219 GRAND TOTALS: 613 535 172 471 353 66 284 1,123 985 324 Seafarers LOG 15 �Inquiring Seafarer Seafarers International Union Directory Michael Sacco, President Augustin Tellez, Executive Vice President David Heindel, Secretary-Treasurer George Tricker, Vice President Contracts Tom Orzechowski, Vice President Lakes and Inland Waters Dean Corgey, Vice President Gulf Coast Nicholas J. Marrone, Vice President West Coast Joseph T. Soresi, Vice President Atlantic Coast Kermett Mangram, Vice President Government Services HEADQUARTERS 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746 (301) 899-0675 ALGONAC 520 St. Clair River Dr., Algonac, MI 48001 (810) 794-4988 ANCHORAGE 721 Sesame St., #1C, Anchorage, AK 99503 (907) 561-4988 BALTIMORE 2315 Essex St., Baltimore, MD 21224 (410) 327-4900 GUAM P.O. Box 3328, Hagatna, Guam 96932 Cliffline Office Ctr. Bldg., Suite 103B 422 West O’Brien Dr., Hagatna, Guam 96910 (671) 477-1350 HONOLULU 606 Kalihi St., Honolulu, HI 96819 (808) 845-5222 HOUSTON 1221 Pierce St., Houston, TX 77002 (713) 659-5152 JACKSONVILLE 5100 Belfort Rd., Jacksonville, FL 32256 (904) 281-2622 JOLIET 10 East Clinton St., Joliet, IL 60432 (815) 723-8002 Editor’s note: Responses to this month’s question were provided by members at the union hall in Algonac, Mich., and aboard the Burns Harbor (from Mike Keogh). Question: What role does social media such as Facebook and Twitter play in your life, and what are your thoughts in general about social media? Tim Burke Recertified Bosun If it wasn’t for the computer, people wouldn’t have too much to do. Most people I know are on Facebook, and I use it to find out what’s happening with all my friends. I like keeping in touch with friends and making new ones. You find out a lot about what’s going on in people’s lives. It feels like you’re there even when you’re not. It gives people things to do on their off time and it’s just a really great thing. You’re connected with everything and you can be a part of broader things than you would be without it. Jeffery Eckhart Recertified Bosun Social media plays a big part in my life on board the ship. From keeping in contact with family and friends at home to friends on other ships, and especially with two kids in college, it’s great to be able to chat with them even if it’s only for a couple of minutes. It’s funny to think when I first started working on ships we used to line up at the phone booths and had to use the Post Office to keep in contact with loved ones. Times sure have changed. Mike Keogh Recertified Bosun There’s an active social media community on the Great Lakes. I don’t use Facebook or Twitter, but we have internet available most of the time on the ship, although it’s slow. A lot of the guys use Skype to contact their families, and it has made things a whole lot easier. You can talk every other day, at least. Things are a lot better than they used to be, even just a couple of years ago. We also have cell phone service most of the time. Fabian Lanzy AB I’ve stayed off Facebook and Twitter altogether. I re- ally like having a smartphone, though. I like having an email account I can access at any time and I love being able to text. That’s something we didn’t have in the industry years ago. It keeps you closer. It’s important to make sure you use it at appropriate times, like not while you’re on watch. As it happens, just 10 minutes ago I was texting with a steward that I’ve worked with previously and he asked me about the start dates for a ServSafe class at Piney Point. It’s this type of interaction that makes new modes of communicating with each other so important. We’re able to watch each other’s back, answer questions, and stay more involved with other Seafarers. That’s a really important part of our work. Pic-From-The-Past MOBILE 1640 Dauphin Island Pkwy, Mobile, AL 36605 (251) 478-0916 NEW ORLEANS 3911 Lapalco Blvd., Harvey, LA 70058 (504) 328-7545 NEW YORK 635 Fourth Ave., Brooklyn, NY 11232 (718) 499-6600 Government Services Division: (718) 499-6600 NORFOLK 115 Third St., Norfolk, VA 23510 (757) 622-1892 OAKLAND 1121 7th St., Oakland, CA 94607 (510) 444-2360 PHILADELPHIA 2604 S. 4 St., Philadelphia, PA 19148 (215) 336-3818 PINEY POINT P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674 (301) 994-0010 PORT EVERGLADES 1221 S. Andrews Ave., Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33316 (954) 522-7984 SANTURCE 1057 Fernandez Juncos Ave., Stop 16 Santurce, PR 00907 (787) 721-4033 ST. LOUIS/ALTON 4581 Gravois Ave., St. Louis, MO 63116 (314) 752-6500 TACOMA 3411 South Union Ave., Tacoma, WA 98409 (253) 272-7774 WILMINGTON 510 N. Broad Ave., Wilmington, CA 90744 (310) 549-4000 The galley gang of South Atlantic Steamship Company’s SS Cape Race is pictured on deck in September 1948. From left to right (kneeling) are Steward J. Lancaster, Crew Messman W.J. Downs, Chief Cook Joe Wendt, (middle row) Salon Pantryman Bill Ranew, Salon Messman Johnny Coxwell, Galleyman Mac Skittlethorpe, B.R. Whitey Pittman, (back row) Night Cook and Baker Joe “Hunkie” Wilsaak, Second Cook Clyde Kriss and Crew Pantryman J.W. Short. Chief Electrician Bill Nicholson took the photo. If anyone has a vintage union-related photograph he or she would like to share with other Seafarers LOG readers, please send it to the Seafarers LOG, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. Photographs will be returned, if so requested. High-resolution digital images may be sent to webmaster@seafarers.org 16 Seafarers LOG June 2012 �Welcome Ashore Each month, the Seafarers LOG pays tribute to the SIU members who have devoted their working lives to sailing aboard U.S.-flag vessels on the deep seas, inland waterways or Great Lakes. Listed below are brief biographical sketches of those members who recently retired from the union. The brothers and sisters of the SIU thank those members for a job well done and wish them happiness and good health in the days ahead. DEEP SEA RALPH DE ROCHA Brother Ralph De Rocha, 67, signed on with the SIU in 1989. His earliest trip was on the USNS Algol. Brother De Rocha’s final ship was the USNS Altair. The engine department member lives in Marrero, La. ROGER FLAHERTY Brother Roger Flaherty, 65, started sailing with the union in 1978. A member of the steward department, he upgraded on three occasions at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. Brother Flaherty initially worked on the Saginaw Bay. His most recent trip was aboard the USNS Titan. Brother Flaherty was born in Michigan but now calls St. Petersburg, Fla., home. PETER HOVE Brother Peter Hove, 72, was born in Illinois. He became an SIU member in 1967, originally shipping with Bloomfield Steamship Company. Brother Hove often took advantage of educational opportunities at the Piney Point school. He sailed as a member of the engine department. Brother Hove’s most recent voyage was aboard the Great Land. He settled in Federal Way, Wash. ROBERT KIRK Brother Robert Kirk, 62, began sailing with the union in 1968. He first worked with Alcoa Steamship Company. Brother Kirk sailed in the deck department, most recently on the Cape Rise. He attended classes on numerous occasions at the maritime training center in Piney Point, Md. Brother Kirk is a resident of Poplar Beach, N.C. AUGUSTUS MARKRIS Brother Augustus Markris, 65, donned the SIU colors in 1963. His first voyage was aboard the Falcon Lady; his most recent was on the Walter Rice. June 2012 Brother Markris, who sailed in the deck department, makes his home in Mobile, Ala. JOHN PADILLA Brother John Padilla, 64, signed on with the union in 1978 while in the port of New York. He originally sailed aboard an Interocean American Shipping Corporation vessel. Brother Padilla was born in New York City and worked in the steward department. On three occasions, he enhanced his skills at the Piney Point school. Brother Padilla last shipped on the Agate. He lives in Elizabeth, N.J. BRUNO RODRIQUEZ Brother Bruno Rodriquez, 65, joined the SIU in 2001 as the NMU merged into the Seafarers International Union. The steward department member’s most recent trip was aboard the Cape Knox. Brother Rodriquez resides in Fort Wayne, Ind. THOMAS RUSSELL Brother Thomas Russell, 60, became a Seafarer in 1968. His earliest trip was with Interocean American Shipping. In 1975 and 2001, Brother Russell attended classes at the Paul Hall Center. His most recent trip was on the El Morro. Brother Russell shipped in the deck department and calls San Juan, P.R., home. recent trip was on the Coast Range. Brother Wiemer settled in New Port Richey, Fla. vessels operated by Dixie Carriers. Brother Guidroz resides in Arnaudville, La. JAMES HARNISH INLAND THOMAS BODDEN Brother Thomas Bodden, 67, was born in Honduras. He donned the SIU colors in 2005. Brother Bodden primarily sailed in the deck department of the Boomtown. He now makes his home in Marrero, La. CHARLES COLUCCI Brother Charles Colucci, 65, joined the union in 2002. The deck department member worked with Port Imperial Ferry for the duration of his career. Brother Colucci upgraded in 2002 at the Piney Point school. He lives in Monmouth Beach, N.J. LAWRENCE GUIDROZ Brother Lawrence Guidroz, 67, signed on with the SIU in 1968. He primarily sailed aboard Brother James Harnish, 64, joined the SIU ranks in 1981. He originally worked with American Towing & Transportation. Brother Harnish enhanced his skills in 1995 at the Paul Hall Center. His most recent trip was on a Penn Maritime Inc. vessel. Brother Harnish calls St. Petersburg, Fla., home. LINDA RICHERSON Sister Linda Richerson, 72, became a union member in 1996. She sailed mainly with Orgulf Transport Company. Sister Richerson was a member of the steward department. She’s a resident of Dexter, Ky. JAMES STEELE Brother James Steele, 60, started shipping with the SIU in 1976 from the port of Philadelphia. His earliest trip was aboard a Moran Towing of Philadelphia vessel. Brother Steele most recently worked with Crowley Liner Services. He lives in Voorhees, N.J. JOHN WINT Brother John Wint, 66, joined the union in 1994. He was primarily employed with Crescent Towing & Salvage Company. Brother Wint makes his home in Semmes, Ala. NATIONAL MARITIME UNION JOHN BYRNES Brother John Byrnes, 60, was born in New York. He became an SIU member during the 2001 merger. In 2002, he attended classes at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Byrnes was a member of the engine department. His final trip to sea was on the Maersk Nebraska. Brother Byrnes makes his home in East Northport, N.Y. ANGEL GOJILDE Brother Angel Gojilde, 76, joined the SIU in 2001 as the NMU merged into the Seafarers International Union. He was born in Masbate, Philippines. Brother Gojilde now lives in San Fernando City. This Month In SIU History JACINTO SALGADO Editor’s note: The following items are reprinted from previous editions of the Seafarers LOG. Brother Jacinto Salgado, 65, started sailing with the SIU in 1992 while in the port of Wilmington, Calif. His earliest trip was aboard the Independence. Brother Salgado upgraded in 1997 at the union-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. The deck department member’s most recent ship was the Lightning. Brother Salgado is a resident of Highland, Calif. 1947 The long hard fight to organize the unlicensed seamen of Isthmian Steamship Company met with success this week when the National Labor Relations Board certified the SIU as the sole collective bargaining representative of the company’s unlicensed seamen. The certification culminated seven months of stalling by the company. The seamen voted SIU by a margin of 1,256 for SIU representation against 813 for another union. 1967 Addressing nearly 300 delegates during the opening ceremony of the SIUNA convention, House Minority Leader Rep. Gerald Ford said of the U.S. Merchant Marine, “We lack both the ships and manpower to respond adequately to continuing international crisis.” Ford pointed out that the crises in the Middle East and in Vietnam show the need for a strong, efficient U.S. Merchant Marine – American-built, American-crewed ships – capable of handling our worldwide military logistic needs. 1956 Four Seafarers and the daughter of a Seafarer have been selected by the board of university administrators as winners of the 1956 Seafarers Scholarship Awards. Each will receive a $6,000 Andrew Furuseth Memorial Scholarship to cover four years of college or university training in the field of their choice. The award of five scholarships this year was made on the basis of a new ruling by the trustees of the Seafarers Welfare Plan, setting aside a fifth scholarship annually for a Seafarer. Seafarers largely out-classed the 1982 Champagne corks popped and bands played as hundreds of passengers and well-wishers filled the deck of the SIU-contracted S.S. Constitution to welcome her back to the U.S.-flag passenger ship trade. The Constitution joins its sister ship, the Independence, in the U.S.-flag fleet and together have brought more than 650 unlicensed jobs for the SIU. The Constitution, which was christened by Princess Grace of Monaco 25 years earlier, is set to service passengers on tours of the various Hawaiian Islands. RICKY WIEMER Brother Ricky Wiemer, 62, began his SIU career in 1977, initially shipping aboard a Barge Harbor Towing vessel. The deck department member was born in South Carolina. Brother Wiemer enhanced his skills in 1996 and 2002 at the maritime training center in Piney Point, Md. His most field in this year’s competition with three of the first four spots going to SIU men. Seafarers LOG 17 �Final Departures DEEP SEA MELVIN GREEN Pensioner Melvin Green, 86, passed away Dec. 18. Brother Green was born in Oklahoma. The steward department member joined the union in 1961. Brother Green initially sailed with Waterman Steamship Corporation. His final voyage was aboard the OMI Willamette. Brother Green retired in 1997 and called Mena, Ark., home. CHAD HESS Brother Chad Hess, 30, died Jan. 7. He became an SIU member in 2001 while in Piney Point, Md. Brother Hess originally shipped on the ITB Jacksonville. He was a native of Tacoma, Wash. Brother Hess was a member of the engine department. He most recently sailed aboard the Tacoma. Brother Hess made his home in Orting, Wash. ORLANDO HILL Brother Orlando Hill, 50, passed away Jan. 1. He signed on with the union in 2004 while in the port of Seattle. Brother Hill’s first ship was the Overseas Chicago; his last was the USNS Curtiss. The steward department member was born in Baltimore. Brother Hill settled in Kent, Wash. RONALD LEDOUX Brother Ronald Ledoux, 60, died Dec. 3. He began sailing with the SIU in 1991. Brother Ledoux’s earliest trip to sea was on the AMSEA vessel Lake. His final ship was the USNS Algol. Brother Ledoux, a member of the steward department, lived in Mobile, Ala. MONTGOMERY MARTIN Pensioner Montgomery Martin, 96, passed away Jan. 1. Brother Martin first donned the SIU colors in 1968. As a member of the steward department, he initially sailed aboard the R Semmes. Brother Martin was a South Carolina native. He last worked on the Developer. Brother Martin became a pensioner in 1983 and lived in San Diego. YEHYA OMAR Brother Yehya Omar, 32, died Dec. 1. He joined the union 18 Seafarers LOG in 2000 while in the port of San Francisco. Brother Omar originally shipped on the Cape Mohican. He sailed in the engine department. Brother Omar last worked aboard the Horizon Pacific. He resided in Oakland, La. JOSEPH OSORIO Pensioner Joseph Osorio, 72, passed away Dec. 11. Brother Osorio became a Seafarer in 1968. He initially shipped on the Sabine. The deck department member most recently sailed aboard the El Morro. Brother Osorio went on pension in 2003 and called Puerto Rico home. JAMES TARANTO Brother James Taranto, 61, died Jan. 11. He started sailing with the union in 1991 while in San Francisco. Brother Taranto’s earliest voyage was on the Independence. He was a member of the deck department. Brother Taranto’s final trip was aboard the Grand Canton State. He made his home in Oakland, Calif. INLAND TOMMY DONATI Brother Tommy Donati, 55, passed away Sept. 30. He signed on with the union in 1993 in the port of Houston. Brother Donati was primarily employed with Higman Barge Lines. He was a resident of Youngsville, La. HUGH GIBBS Pensioner Hugh Gibbs, 61, died Dec. 13. Born in North Carolina, Brother Gibbs began sailing with the SIU in 1990. He worked mainly on Allied Towing vessels as a member of the engine department. Brother Gibbs retired in 2011 and settled in Engelhard, N.C. EUNIS NELSON Pensioner Eunis Nelson, 90, passed away Dec. 22. Brother Nelson joined the union in 1962. He spent most of his career working with Dravo Basic Materials Company. Brother Nelson started collecting his retirement compensation in 1984. He lived in Irvington, Ala. Editor’s note: The following brothers, all former members of the National Maritime Union (NMU), have passed away. FERDINAND ARAUZ Pensioner Ferdinand Arauz, 86, passed away Dec. 21. Brother Arauz was born in East Chicago, Ind. He went on pension in 1969 and made his home in New Jersey. AZIEL AYALA Pensioner Aziel Ayala, 87, died Dec. 31. Brother Ayala, a native of Puerto Rico, started collecting his retirement compensation in 1991. He lived in Ozone Park, N.Y. ROBERT BESON Pensioner Robert Beson, 84, passed away Dec. 19. The Michigan-born mariner became a pensioner in 1992. Brother Beson called Bay City, Mich., home. JAMES BRATHWAITE Pensioner James Brathwaite, 77, died Dec. 15. Brother Brathwaite was born in Brooklyn, N.Y. He began receiving his pension in 1989. He continued to reside in New York. Verde. He went on pension in 1969. Brother Fernandes made his home in Pawtucket, R.I. became a pensioner in 1984 and lived in Virginia Beach. RICARDO FUSTER Pensioner Ricardo Fuster, 85, passed away Dec. 19. Born in Lares, P.R., Brother Fuster became a pensioner in 1965. He settled in San Antonio, Texas. WILLIAM PROSPER Pensioner William Prosper, 75, passed away Jan. 4. Brother Prosper was born in Mayaguez, P.R. He retired in 1997 and made his home in Jersey City, N.J. THOMAS JOHNSON Pensioner Thomas Johnson, 76, died Dec. 1. Brother Johnson was born in Honduras. He retired in 1993 and was a New York resident. JAMES REID Pensioner James Reid, 81, died Dec. 29. Brother Reid, a native of Alabama, started receiving his retirement pay in 1993. He settled in Mobile. ROY LEE Pensioner Roy Lee, 84, passed away Jan. 11. Brother Lee, a native of Maryland, went on pension in 1972. He continued to call Maryland home. RAYMOND ROBINSON Pensioner Raymond Robinson, 84, passed away Nov. 16. Born in Texas, Brother Robinson began collecting his pension in 1989. He was a resident of Italy, Texas. JAMES LOVE Pensioner James Love, 81, died Jan. 19. Brother Love was born in Pennsylvania. He started receiving his retirement compensation in 1995. Brother Love lived in Picayune, Miss. STEVEN ROCKER Pensioner Steven Rocker, 64, died Nov. 8. Brother Rocker was born in Panama. He became a pensioner in 2004 and resided in Pasco, Wash. ROBERT MASON Pensioner Robert Mason, 91, passed away Dec. 23. Born in North Carolina, Brother Mason became a pensioner in 1968. He made his home in Edenton, N.C. JUAN SANCHEZ Pensioner Juan Sanchez, 86, passed away Jan. 3. Brother Sanchez was a native of Puerto Rico. He went on pension in 1984 and lived in Hudson, Fla. JACK BUIE Pensioner Jack Buie, 84, died Dec. 20. Brother Buie was born in Inverness, Fla. He went on pension in 1967 and continued to make his home in Florida. ANTHONY MICKLOWSKI Pensioner Anthony Micklowski, 90, died Jan. 5. Brother Micklowski was a native of Philadelphia. He went on pension in 1967 and settled in Cleveland, Texas. GERALD SCOLARDI Pensioner Gerald Scolardi, 74, died Dec. 18. Brother Scolardi, a native of Rhode Island, retired in 2002. He called Lincoln, R.I., home. CHARLES CASTLEBERRY Pensioner Charles Castleberry, 69, passed away Dec. 2. Brother Castleberry was a Georgia native. He started collecting his pension in 1998 and settled in Crystal Spring, Miss. JAMES MORRISSEY Pensioner James Morrissey, 95, passed away Dec. 3. Brother Morrissey was born in Bridgeport, Conn. He retired in 1977 and called Fairfield, Conn., home. EUGENE COCHRAN Pensioner Eugene Cochran, 88, died Jan. 7. Born in Texas, Brother Cochran became a pensioner in 1984. He lived in Port Arthur, Texas. WILLIAM OLIVER Pensioner William Oliver, 90, died Jan. 13. Brother Oliver, a native of North Carolina, began collecting his pension in 1990. He was a resident of Swatara, Pa. ELVIN BROWN Pensioner Elvin Brown, 94, passed away Dec. 29. Brother Brown, a native of Oklahoma, retired in 1965. He was a resident of Fresno, Calif. JAMES ELLEBY Pensioner James Elleby, 86, passed away Jan. 19. Brother Elleby, a native of Camden, S.C., began receiving his retirement pay in 1988. He called New York home. ALEXANDER FERNANDES Pensioner Alexander Fernandes, 91, died Nov. 23. Brother Fernandes was born in Brava, Cape ANTONIUS ONGAMSING Pensioner Antonius Ongamsing, 79, passed away Dec. 29. Born in Suriname, Brother Ongamsing went on pension in 1996. He resided in Los Angeles. ROBERT PALMER Pensioner Robert Palmer, 84, died Dec. 22. Brother Palmer was a native of Virginia. He ROOSEVELT WASHINGTON Pensioner Roosevelt Washington, 73, passed away Dec. 19. Born in Brenham, Texas, Brother Washington started collecting his pension in 1996. He made his home in Texas City. BARTON YOUNG Pensioner Barton Young, 71, died Dec. 29. Brother Young was born in Detroit. He became a pensioner in 1994 and settled in Tacoma, Wash. Name Age DOD Ahmed, Mustafa 88 Dec. 25 Albert, George 67 Dec. 13 Aldana, Jose 78 Dec. 20 Cacho, Jose 94 Dec. 5 Church, John 83 Dec. 8 Edinger, Lester 84 Dec. 17 Munoz, Vincente 86 Dec. 28 Notten, Thomas 84 Jan. 4 Oliver, William 88 Nov. 25 June 2012 �Digest of Shipboard Union Meetings HORIZON RELIANCE (Horizon Lines), March 25 – Chairman Kissinfor N. Taylor, Secretary Joseph A. Laureta, Educational Director Cirico L. Geonanga, Engine Delegate Adel Irani, Steward Delegate Teresito Reyes. Bosun announced payoff at sea April 5. He suggested crew members read the Seafarers LOG for information about STCW and reminded them to pay union dues on time. Educational director advised everyone check expiration dates and keep documents current. He also suggested Seafarers upgrade at the SIU-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. Treasurer reported $1,702 in ship’s fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. A vote of thanks was given to Chief Stewrd Joe Laureta and the rest of the galley gang for a job well done. Next ports: Los Angeles and Honolulu. MAERSK GEORGIA (Maersk Line, Limited), March 31 – Chairman Daniel S. Marcus, Secretary Robert E. Wilcox, Educational Director John E. Conn, Deck Delegate Abdullah Oun, Engine Delegate Syed M. Iqbal, Steward Delegate Christopher Coston. Chairman thanked mariners for a good, safe voyage. Secretary reminded those departing to leave rooms clean and supplied with soap and fresh linen. Crew members were thanked for their professionalism. Educational director suggested Seafarers take advantage of courses available at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. He also reminded them that they will not be able to ship if MMD/ Merchant Mariner Credential runs out before the trip ends, so keep documents up-to-date. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Members requested clarification on transportation reimbursement from New York hall to Port Elizabeth. Next ports: Elizabeth, N.J., Charleston, S.C. and Norfolk, Va. OVERSEAS NIKISKI (OSG Ship Management), March 31 – Chairman Anton T. Sulic, Secretary Joseph P. Emidy, Educational Director Benjamin E. Mathews, Deck Delegate Christopher Green, Engine Delegate Musa Quraish, Steward Delegate Gregory K. Johnson. Chairman noted morale aboard vessel is good and jobs are getting done. Mariners were reminded to make sure all necessary seafaring documents were up-to-date. Educational director advised all mariners to enhance skills at the maritime training center in Piney Point, Md. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Recommendation was made to increase optical and dental benefits. Request was made for new mattresses and pillows for rooms. Fellow crew members thanked the steward department for great meals, especially the fresh fish and king crab. Members expressed frustration about trying to June 2012 The Seafarers LOG attempts to print as many digests of union shipboard minutes as possible. On occasion, because of space limitations, some will be omitted. Ships’ minutes first are reviewed by the union’s contract department. Those issues requiring attention or resolution are addressed by the union upon receipt of the ships’ minutes. The minutes are then forwarded to the Seafarers LOG for publication. Shipboard Memorial Service On El Yunque For Brother Adams The cremains of former Seafarer Roger Lee Adams, in accordance with his wishes, were committed to sea April 1 during a ceremony aboard the SIU-crewed El Yunque. A few photos from the memorial event, which took place northeast of Puerto Rico, are shown here. Adams sailed in the engine department, including voyages aboard vessels operated by Interocean American Shipping and Connecticut Transport Inc., respectively. He passed away earlier this year, at age 65. get four months’ worth of a prescription. ALLIANCE BEAUMONT (Maersk Line, Limited), April 15 – Chairman Thomas P. Banks, Secretary Charles A. Brooks, Educational Director Paul P. Pagano, Deck Delegate Charles B. Collins, Steward Delegate Carlos Diaz. Bosun requested clarification on rules regarding extra day vacation per month after completing accident-free tour of duty. Mariners were reminded that garbage room is for paper and plastic only. Educational director advised all mariners to attend classes at the union-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. No beefs or disputed OT reported. One washing machine is broken; parts have been ordered. While recently anchored in Suez Canal, “when we picked up the anchor, we picked up an old anchor chain off the bottom.” Next port: Beaumont, Texas. CHARGER (Maersk Line, Limited), April 21 – Chairman Robert Pagan, Secretary Allen E. Hollinger, Educational Director Andrew J. Linares. Chairman stated payoff to take place in Los Angles on April 23. He reminded crew members to use the right machine for dirty clothes and stressed the importance of carrying their TWIC cards during shore leave in U.S. ports. Secretary urged those departing the vessel to clean rooms, empty trash and leave keys for next mariners. He also expressed gratitude to fellow crew members for helping keep ship clean. Mariners were encouraged to renew documents in a timely manner. No beefs or disputed OT reported. New refrigerators have been ordered. Request was made for new microwave in crew mess. Next ports: Los Angeles and Oakland, Calif. HORIZON SPIRIT (Horizon Lines), April 16 – Chairman Howard Gibbs, Secretary Jennifer K. Jim, Educational Director Roy S. Frett, Deck Delegate Philmon Quitoriano, Steward Delegate Susano Cortez. Chairman announced upcoming payoff at sea. Correspondence from patrolman received and read to crew. Detailed discussion took place concerning standbys. Secretary contacted headquarters for clarification on bonus. Educational director encouraged mariners to upgrade at unionaffiliated school in Piney Point, Md. He offered a number of tips and reminders about merchant mariner credentials and TWICs. No beefs reported. Departmental delegates discussed contractual specifications about time off. Crew noted that company has provided internet service for vessel. Also, Dish TV was reinstalled and crew contributions are paying for services. Vote of thanks given to galley gang “for all the good food and service provided.” Mariners asked for increase in pension benefits and lowering sea-time requirements, among other suggestions. Additional discussion took place concerning tour-of-duty bonus. Next port: Honolulu. HORIZON TRADER (Horizon Lines), April 24 – Chairman Isaac Vega, Secretary Kevin M. Dougherty, Educational Director Thomas M. Flynn, Deck Delegate Marcos Rivera, Engine Delegate Jermaine Love, Steward Delegate Michael D. Henry. Bosun reviewed ship’s itinerary prior to dry dock. He reported that during dry dock Horizon Lines will replace tiles on deck, in cabins and passageways. Educational director reminded members to make sure all necessary seafaring documents were current. He noted that they could pre-file for TWIC and other documents online so the turnaround time should be faster. Mariners were urged to enhance skills at the maritime training center in Piney Point, Md. Treasurer reported $1,700 in ship’s fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Request was made for upgraded internet and satellite aboard vessel. Crew would also like TV cables to each cabin. Next ports: Elizabeth, N.J., San Juan, P.R., Honolulu and Shanghai. MAERSK KENTUCKY (Maersk Line, Limited), April 8 – Chairman William M. Richards, Secretary Wayne R. Wilson, Educational Director Brian J. Sengelaub. Chairman expressed his gratitude to crew for a safe trip. Educational director thanked new apprentice for doing a great job while in engine room. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Suggestions were made regarding vacation benefits. Crew thanked steward department for a job well done. Next port: Newark, N.J. MAERSK MISSOURI (Maersk Line, Limited), April 8 – Chairman Albert C. Williams, Secretary Billy Gigante, Educational Director Jerome D. Culbreth, Deck Delegate Fermin E. Baltazar, Engine Delegate Anatoli Vetsinov, Steward Delegate Brian T. McEleneny. Chairman reported good voyage with a great crew. He urged them to take advantage of Union Plus benefits. Secretary asked those departing vessel to ensure rooms are clean and ready for reliefs. Educational director urged mariners to upgrade often at the Piney Point school and keep documents up-to-date. Treasurer reported $1,500 in ship’s fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Thanks given to steward department for great food. Next ports: Charleston, S.C., Norfolk, Va., and Newark, N.J. Seafarers LOG 19 �Letters To The Editor SIU Pacific District Pension Plan Notes Letters may be edited for conciseness and clarity. Submissions may be mailed to 5201 Auth Way, Camp Sprngs, MD 20746 or emailed to webmaster@seafarers.org. Experience Reveals Truth About ‘Right to Work’ I came from a “right-to-work” state. When I was 22 or so, having tried it their way for several years, and having been kicked on the street without enough earnings to make a living, I found a lucky strike in the oil patch. I sailed as an ordinary seaman on an anchor tug/OSV with a company where I found the “right-towork” dogma was viciously reinforced. In the short year it took for me to get my sea service in for my AB ticket, I also observed countless (literally) ABs routinely reduced to a mediocre status by the company agenda and personal fancied preferences of the shipboard officers. I worked hard to make it, and did, but it hurt me to see the young people, and older more experiential sailors fired, jerked around, and hand-tailored to their own detriment. I received my first job as an AB in a private New England ferry company. They worked their schedules in step with the sailors so that I met members of the SIU, NMU, ILA and other unions while working there. These sailors filled me in on the other side life, that I hadn’t seen or heard, and soon, on my off time I was off to New York, registered, and found myself in the SMU and finally the SIU. I can’t say that learning about the SIU or labor unions in general was easy. I was a supporter from the start, because I believed in the cause, but because I had come from an entirely detached work ethic, or more realistically because I had been so ignorant of the union concept, learning the details of the basic mode of operations of work on an SIU ship was a bit of a challenge for me. I put my time in, however, got with the bosuns and enjoyed the ride. I retired my book in 2010, which has given me some time to think about all that I experienced in my sailing years. I can say that the years I spent sailing, and more so sailing with the SIU were equivalent in proportion to any college degree, and had such a positive effect on my life that I will never discredit any union or entertain the silly “right-to-work” hype again. To me, it is not even worth my breath. One thing I recognize now with certainty is that the so-called right to work never assists one’s actual right to work. Right-to-work politics only assist in reducing a person’s right to be represented by a union. Right to work focuses on replacing the union’s legitimate power to represent their membership with the agenda of the shareholders, or company ownership. It does not change or assist one’s “right to work” in a union or nonunion environment. Normally, for us, an expression of gratitude may be peculiar if not whimsical. However, considering what I have seen, believe me, it is warranted. Thanks for being a good union. Thanks for allowing the SIU to be its best. Union Strong. Union Proud. Honorable. Jonathan Anderson A-1509 Mariner from Greatest Generation Enjoying LOG I sincerely appreciate receiving the Seafarers LOG every month even though I am no longer a dues-paying member. I was a member during the Second World War and always will be an SIU man. My shipping record during the war included voyages aboard the following vessels: Alcoa Pilot (Alcoa Steamship), Alabaman (American-Hawaiian Steamship Company), Reynolds (APL), Samuel F. Miller (Waterman), Galen L. Stone (Eastern Steamship), Ferdinand Hassler (Bull Line), and Young (APL). From 1946 through 1948, I sailed on five ships including ones operated by Calmar, Matson, Robin Line, Eastern Steamship and Seas Shipping Co. God bless you all. William (Bill) Ellis Port St. Lucie, Florida The Plan provides two types of pensions: Deferred Vested Pensions and Pensions Vesting at Retirement. The latter are employer subsidized early retirement benefits. If you qualify for more than one pension, you will receive only the one that is the largest. A few highlights from the SIU Pacific District Pension Plan rules are outlined below: Deferred Vested Pension The Plan provides a Deferred Vested Pension benefit payable at Normal Retirement Age (usually age 65.) The amount of the benefit depends on the pension credits accumulated. One Year of Vesting Service 125 days of covered employment within a calendar year Benefit Credits 125-199 days: pro rata benefit 200 days: full year vested benefit credit Vesting Requirements Before August 1, 1999, 10 years of vesting service for active employees After 7/31/1999, 5 years of vesting service for active employees If following a Plan participant’s most recent year of vesting service, a participant with less than 10 aggregate years of vesting service has one or more one-year service breaks before January 1, 1999, then the required number of aggregate years of vesting service shall continue to be 10 until the participant completes one year of vesting service after December 31, 1998. (Exceptions to the above vesting periods may apply in accordance with break-in-service rules.) Breaks in Service Until your benefit is “vested,” you may lose your accumulated pension credits if you have a Break in Service. Prior to January 1, 1985, you experience a Break in Service for purposes of the Deferred Vested pension if the number of consecutive calendar years in which you have 62 or fewer days of service equals or exceeds the number of accumulated prior calendar years in which you had 125 or more days of service provided, however, that from January 1, 1985 and after, you will not suffer a Break in Service until you have at least five consecutive calendar years of vesting with 62 or fewer days of service. Your accumulated years of vesting service cannot include years lost because of a previous break in service. (Above is a brief extract from the break-in-service rules only. Contact the Plan Office for discussion of how break-in-service rules may apply to your particular circumstances.) Pensions Vesting at Retirement The following pensions may be payable before Normal Retirement Age based on the number of qualifying years earned within the applicable qualification period: Pension Type Qualifying Years Requirement Long Term 25 Basic 20 Reduced 15-19 Disability Minimum of 10 years Min. Age 55 55 65 Any age Year of Qualifying Time 200 days of covered employment within a calendar year equals a full year of qualifying time. Less than 200 days within a calendar year will earn a pro rata partial year of qualifying time. No credit will be earned for covered employment in excess of 200 days in any calendar year. Loss of Qualifying Time A Plan participant shall lose all qualifying time credit if he or she: 1. has failed to maintain seniority shipping rights under the provisions of the Collective Bargaining Agreement, or 2. has failed to work at least 1 day in covered employment or in a non-covered standby employment for a contributing employer in any 2 calendar year period after having attained seniority shipping rights, or 3. did not have seniority shipping rights on June 15, 1965 under the provisions of the Collective Bargaining Agreement, provided that a Plan participant shall be deemed to have seniority shipping rights on June 15, 1965 if he or she was working in covered employment on June 15, 1965, or was eligible for registration or employment on a seniority basis on that date at one of the hiring halls of the Pacific District Unions. Any such Plan participant who reenters covered employment after having so forfeited his qualifying time shall accumulate qualifying time only after the date he or she last forfeited Qualifying time. A Plan participant cannot lose previously acquired qualifying time if he or she has fulfilled all of the eligibility requirements for a Basic or Long Term Pension at any time since June 16, 1978. Normal Retirement Age and Special Rules for Participants over Age 70-½ Your Normal Retirement Age under the Plan is age 65, provided you have: n Completed at least five Aggregate Years of Vesting Service if you have at least one Day of Service after July 31, 1999 or n Completed at least ten Aggregate Years of Vesting Service if you do not have at least one Day of Service after July 31, 1999 If upon attaining age 65 you have not satisfied either of the conditions above, your Normal Retirement Age is the 5th anniversary of your date of Participation, provided you have not had a Break in Service. Special rules apply if you are age 70-½ or older and are still actively employed by a Contributing Employer. If you attain age 70-½ on or after January 1, 1996, you will be required to commence retirement the later of: n April 1 following the calendar year in which you attain age 70-½, and n January 1 following the calendar year in which you fail to complete at least 62 Days of Service If you attained age 70-½ prior to January 1, 1996, please consult the Plan Office for details on the calculation of your benefit. If you work past your Normal Retirement Age or commence your pension after your Normal Retirement Age, any benefits payable to you shall be no less than the actuarial equivalent of the benefit to which you would have been entitled at your Normal Retirement Age. Integration Agreements The SIU Pacific District Pension Plan entered into INTEGRATION AGREEMENTS with (1) the Chevron/SUP/Marine Pension Plan and (2) the San Francisco Bar Pilots Marine Pension Plan. Example Calculation for a Pro-rata Benefit(s): Applicant is age 60 Applicant has accumulated in excess of 25.000 Qualifying Years. Applicant is entitled to receive the current maximum amount of $1,700.00 SIU-PD Pension Plan: 27.500 Qualifying Years Chevron Marine Pension Plan: 7.000 Qualifying Years Total Qualifying Years: 34.500 $1,700.00 ÷ 34.500 Qualifying Years = $49.2754 $49.2754 x 27.500 = $1,355.07 SIU-PD Pension Plan $ 49.2754 x 7.000 = $344.93 Chevron Marine Pension Plan 34.500 $1,700.00 The calculation pertaining to the San Francisco Bar Pilots Integration Agreement is identical. The SIU Pacific District Pension Plan does not integrate with either Plan for VESTING PURPOSES. Space does not allow a full listing of the SIU-PD Pension Plan rules. Questions regarding Exceptions, Break-in-Service rules or Accumulated Vesting or Qualifying Time should be directed to the Plan Office. SIU Pacific District Pension Plan: 415-764-4987 Know Your Rights FINANCIAL REPORTS. The Constitution of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU makes specific provision for safeguarding the membership’s money and union finances. The constitution requires a detailed audit by certified public accountants every year, which is to be submitted to the membership by the secretary-treasurer. A yearly finance committee of rank-and-file members, elected by the membership, each year examines the finances of the union and reports fully their findings and recommendations. Members of this committee may make dissenting reports, specific recommendations and separate findings. TRUST FUNDS. All trust funds of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU are administered in accordance with the provisions of various trust fund agreements. All these agreements specify that the trustees in charge of these funds shall equally consist of union and management representatives and their alternates. All expenditures and disbursements of trust funds are made only upon approval by a majority of the trustees. All trust fund financial records are available at the headquarters of the various trust funds. SHIPPING RIGHTS. A member’s shipping rights and seniority are protected exclusively by contracts between the union and the employers. Members should get to know their shipping rights. Copies of these contracts are posted and available in all union halls. If members believe there have been violations of their shipping or seniority rights as contained in the contracts between the union and the employers, they should notify the Seafarers Appeals Board by certified mail, return receipt requested. The 20 Seafarers LOG proper address for this is: Augustin Tellez, Chairman Seafarers Appeals Board 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 Full copies of contracts as referred to are available to members at all times, either by writing directly to the union or to the Seafarers Appeals Board. CONTRACTS. Copies of all SIU contracts are available in all SIU halls. These contracts specify the wages and conditions under which an SIU member works and lives aboard a ship or boat. Members should know their contract rights, as well as their obligations, such as filing for overtime (OT) on the proper sheets and in the proper manner. If, at any time, a member believes that an SIU patrolman or other union official fails to protect their contractual rights properly, he or she should contact the nearest SIU port agent. EDITORIAL POLICY — THE SEAFARERS LOG. The Seafarers LOG traditionally has refrained from publishing any article serving the political purposes of any individual in the union, officer or member. It also has refrained from publishing articles deemed harmful to the union or its collective membership. This established policy has been reaffirmed by membership action at the September 1960 meetings in all constitutional ports. The responsibility for Sea­farers LOG policy is vested in an editorial board which consists of the executive board of the union. The executive board may delegate, from among its ranks, one individual to carry out this responsibility. PAYMENT OF MONIES. No monies are to be paid to anyone in any official capacity in the SIU unless an official union receipt is given for same. Under no circumstances should any member pay any money for any reason unless he is given such receipt. In the event anyone attempts to require any such payment be made without supplying a receipt, or if a member is required to make a payment and is given an official receipt, but feels that he or she should not have been required to make such payment, this should immediately be reported to union headquarters. CONSTITUTIONAL RIGHTS AND OBLIGATIONS. Copies of the SIU Constitution are available in all union halls. All members should obtain copies of this constitution so as to familiarize themselves with its contents. Any time a member feels any other member or officer is attempting to deprive him or her of any constitutional right or obligation by any methods, such as dealing with charges, trials, etc., as well as all other details, the member so affected should immediately notify headquarters. EQUAL RIGHTS. All members are guaranteed equal rights in employment and as members of the SIU. These rights are clearly set forth in the SIU Constitution and in the contracts which the union has negotiated with the employers. Conse­quently, no member may be discriminated against because of race, creed, color, sex, national or geographic origin. If any member feels that he or she is denied the equal rights to which he or she is entitled, the member should notify union headquarters. SEAFARERS POLITICAL ACTIVITY DONATION (SPAD). SPAD is a separate segregated fund. Its proceeds are used to further its objects and purposes including, but not limited to, furthering the political, social and economic interests of maritime workers, the preservation and furthering of the American merchant marine with improved employment opportunities for seamen and boatmen and the advancement of trade union concepts. In connection with such objects, SPAD supports and contributes to political candidates for elective office. All contributions are voluntary. No contribution may be solicited or received because of force, job discrimination, financial reprisal, or threat of such conduct, or as a condition of membership in the union or of employment. If a contribution is made by reason of the above improper conduct, the member should notify the Seafarers International Union or SPAD by certified mail within 30 days of the contribution for investigation and appropriate action and refund, if involuntary. A member should support SPAD to protect and further his or her economic, political and social interests, and American trade union concepts. NOTIFYING THE UNION — If at any time a member feels that any of the above rights have been violated, or that he or she has been denied the constitutional right of access to union records or information, the member should immediately notify SIU President Michael Sacco at headquarters by certified mail, return receipt requested. The address is: Michael Sacco, President Seafarers International Union 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746. June 2012 �Paul Hall Center Upgrading Course Information The following is the schedule of courses at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md., for the next few months. All programs are geared to improving the job skills of Seafarers and to promoting the American maritime industry. Please note that this schedule may change to reflect the needs of the membership, the maritime industry and—in times of conflict—the nation’s security. Students attending any of these classes should check in the Saturday before their course’s start date. The courses listed here will begin promptly on the morning of the start dates. For classes ending on a Friday, departure reservations should be made for Saturday. Seafarers who have any questions regarding the upgrading courses offered at the Paul Hall Center may call the admissions office at (301) 994-0010. Title of Start Date of Course Date Completion Deck Department Able Seaman August 4 August 31 October 13 November 9 ARPA July 28 August 3 October 27 November 2 Bosun Recertification July 14 August 6 ECDIS September 29 October 5 December 8 December 14 Fast Rescue Boat June 23 June 29 July 28 August 3 GMDSS June 9 June 22 November 24 December 7 Lifeboatman/Water Survival June 23 July 6 July 21 August 3 August 18 August 31 September 15 September 28 October 13 October 26 November 11 November 23 December 8 December 21 Radar Observer July 14 July 27 October 13 October 26 Radar Renewal (One day) June 25 June 25 August 13 August 13 November 16 November 16 STOS July 14 July 27 September 15 September 28 Engine Department Adv. Refer Containers July 14 August 10 Basic Auxiliary Plant Operations (BAPO) July 21 August 17 September 15 October 12 November 10 December 7 FOWT June 23 July 20 August 18 September 14 October 13 November 9 Junior Engineer August 25 October 19 Machinist July 28 August 17 UPGRADING APPLICATION Name_________________________________________________________________________ Address_______________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________ Telephone (Home)_________________________ (Cell)_________________________ Date of Birth___________________________________________________________________ Deep Sea Member o Lakes Member o Inland Waters Member o If the following information is not filled out completely, your application will not be processed. Social Security #_______________________ Book #__________________________________ Seniority_____________________________ Department_____________________________ Home Port____________________________________________________________________ E-mail_______________________________________________________________________ Endorsement(s) or License(s) now held_____________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________ Are you a graduate of the SHLSS/PHC trainee program? o Yes o No If yes, class #___________________________________________________________________ Have you attended any SHLSS/PHC upgrading courses? o Yes o No If yes, course(s) taken____________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________ With this application, COPIES of the following must be sent: One hundred and twenty-five (125) days seatime for the previous year, one day in the last six months prior to the date your class starts, USMMD (z-card) front and back or relevant pages of merchant mariner credential, front page of your union book indicating your department and seniority, qualifying seatime for the course if it is Coast Guard tested, 1995 STCW Certificate, valid SHBP Clinic Card and TWIC. June 2012 Title of Course Start Date Date of Completion Machinist August 18 September 7 Marine Electrician October 20 December 14 Pumpman September 8 September 21 Welding July 7 July 27 September 15 October 5 October 20 November 9 November 24 December 14 Steward Department Chief Steward July 7 August 17 October 13 November 23 Serve Safe July 7 July 13 September 29 October 5 Chief Cook These modules start every other week. The next class begins June 18. Galley Operations/Advanced Galley Operations These modules start every Monday. The next classes will begin June 11. Safety Courses Advanced Firefighting July 21 July 27 July 28 August 3 September 15 September 21 September 22 September 28 October 27 November 2 December 1 December 7 Basic Firefighting/STCW June 23 June 29 July 7 July 13 August 11 August 17 September 15 September 21 October 13 October 19 November 3 November 9 December 1 December 7 Government Vessels June 16 June 22 August 18 August 24 September 29 October 5 November 24 November 30 June 9 June 15 Medical Care Provider July 28 August 3 August 4 August 10 September 22 September 28 September 29 October 5 November 3 November 9 December 8 December 14 Tank PIC Barge December 8 December 14 Tanker Asst. Cargo DL July 14 July 27 Students who have registered for classes at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, but later discover - for whatever reason - that they can’t attend, should inform the admissions department immediately so arrangements can be made to have other students take their places. COURSE ____________________________ START DATE _______________ DATE OF COMPLETION _______________________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________________ LAST VESSEL: ___________________________________ Rating: ____________________ Date On: _______________________________ Date Off:____________________________ SIGNATURE ____________________________________ DATE______________________ NOTE: Transportation will be paid in accordance with the scheduling letter only if you present original receipts and successfully complete the course. If you have any questions, contact your port agent before departing for Piney Point. Not all classes are reimbursable.Return completed application to: Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education Admissions Office, P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674-0075; or fax to (301) 994-2189. The Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education is a private, non-profit, equal opportunity institution and admits students, who are otherwise qualified, of any race, nationality or sex. The school complies with applicable laws with regard to admission, access or treatment of students in its programs or activities. 6/12 Seafarers LOG 21 �Paul Hall Center Classes Unlicensed Apprentice Water Survival Class #758 – The following individuals (above, in alphabetical order) completed their requirements in this course April 13: Wilmer Alvarez, Jack Boscia, Daniel Daigle, Cory Devine, Thomas Edenfield, Randolph Harrell, Tyler Jones, Jason Knapp, Ali Malahi, Prasert Mastrototaro, Michael Pirch, Roque Santacruz, Alisia Scheurer and Brett Scott. (Not all are pictured.) Welding – Ten upgraders graduated from this course April 20. Completing their requirements (above, in alphabetical order) were: Abdullah Alamri, Andrew Beach, Ernest Bullock, Romeo Cruda, Larry Dowling, Stanley Ricks, Christian Rosado, Grayson Ross, Russell Shores and Allen Ward. Class Instructor Buzzy Andrews is standing at the far right. Marine Refrigeration Technician – Twelve Seafarers completed the enhancement of their skills in this course April 20. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Alfonso Bombita Jr., Linarys Castillo Ortiz, Archie Eldridge, Reginald Glover, Stravon Jordon, Michael Kelly, Carlos Marcial, Forrest McGee, M’Barek Nouhairi, Enrique Velez, Eeric White and Jason Yung. Jay Henderson, the class instructor, is standing in the rear, second from left. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Specially Trained Ordinary Seaman – Twelve upgraders finished this course April 13. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Talib Cherry, Joherky Conception, Jesus Derramas, Rico Ecalnir Jr., Victor Febes, Jape Geonzon, Rufino Gonzales Jr., Yung-Fan Haloski, Alfredo Nieto, Jose Ojeda, Nathan Shuford and Julio Zapata. Tom Truitt, their instructor, is standing at the far right. Basic Auxiliary Plant Operations – Twenty individuals (unlicensed apprentices and upgraders) finished this course April 27. Those graduating (photos above and below, in alphabetical order) were: Ahmed Ahmed, Nabil Ahmed, Jason Allen, Khoury Bethea, Corey Chandler, Matt Dalgetty, Andre Graham, Ross Halsted, Sean Hernandez, Jade Kellar, Mohamed Khodeiri, Mahare Kidane, Joseph Loguidice, Tremain McCoy, Forrest McGee, Yancey Mitchell, Abdul Mohsen, Rodney Passapera, Dennis Pangan and Justin Smith. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Tankship Familiarization - The following Seafarers completed the enhancement of their skills in this course April 27. Those graduating (photo at right, in alphabetical order) were: Rogelio Agustin, Alex-Stephen Amarra, Norman Arquillano, Robert Austin, Edgar Derramas, Lawa Dowdell, Rico Ecalnir Jr., Edgar Elegino, Victor Febres, Vorden Ferguson, John O’Connell, Andrew Peprah, James Stimage, LaMont Surrett, Thomas Swanson and Kareim Wright. Brad Wheeler, their instructor, is at the far right. (Note: Not all are pictured.) 22 Seafarers LOG June 2012 �Paul Hall Center Classes Government Vessels – Two classes of upgraders finished their requirements in this course April 27. Graduating (photo at left, in alphabetical order) were: Ahmed Ahmed, Nabil Ahmed, Marcelo Alicea, Mike Andrucovici, Sandra Baler, Linarys Castillo-Ortiz, Dwight Cherry, Romeo Cruda, Archie Eldridge, Rufino Gonzales, Usman Ibrahim, Mohamed Khodeiri, Victorino Labrilla Jr., Melchor Lapac Jr., Kelly Mayo, Jamison McIntyre, Robert Noble, M’Barek Nouhairi, Robert Owens, Jonathan Pampilon, Dennis Pangan, Thessolonian Smith, Francis Toth, Enrique Velez Vallejo, Richard Williams, Jason Young and Julio Zapata. Tom Truitt, their instructor, is standing at the far right. Important Notice Students who have registered for classes at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, but later discover - for whatever reason - that they can’t attend, should inform the admissions department immediately so arrangements can be made to have other students take their places. Able Seaman – The following individuals (above, in alphabetical order) finished this course and graduated April 13: Nofoalii Aiaga, Marco Brown, Michael Fertl, Kevin Gebhard, Scott Gilleland, Marques Johnson, Joseph Koncul, Sonny Perez, Luis Ramos Rosa, Adam Smith, William Smith, Lear Surcedo, Jason Wagner, Timothy Weezel, and Steven Welcome. Class Instructor Bernabe Pelingon is standing at the far right. BST – Eighteen Seafarers completed their requirements in this course April 13. Those graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Rogelio Agustin, Juan Amaya, Norman Arquillano, Sandra Baker, James Brockington, Gregory Carroll, Lawa Dowdell, Edgar Elegino, Kimberly Kalua, Brian Lilly Jr., Abad Martinez, Fisher Myers, John O’Connell, Patrick Smith, Thomas Swanson, Paul Terrell, Paul Titus and Bruce Werts. Specially Trained Ordinary Seaman – The following individuals (above, in alphabetical order) completed this course of study April 27: Ali Ali, Matthew Bailer, Tania Carson, Joseph Dasteel, Sage Embleton, David Heindel, Christoher Hughes, Robert Mackey, Kaleb McGill, Angela Puchalsky, Adoplh Romero, Brandon Simken, John Sorsdal, Slawomir Tlalka and Burton Uys. Class Instructor Stan Beck is standing at the far right, in the back row. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Pumpman – Eight individuals wrapped up their studies in this course April 6. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Alex-Stephen Amarra, Reginald Colbert, Terrance Colbert, Robert Orloff III, Rodney Payne, Carmus Peet, Cornelius Smith and Steben Torres. Class Instructor Jim Shaffer is at the far left. BST (Hawaii) – The following individuals (above, in no particular order) completed this course March 31 at the Seafarers Training Facility in Barbers Point, Hawaii: Jennifer Haws, Christopher Fortney, Michael Alvarez, Andrew Berlin, Kelsey Breece, William Broadwell, Caitlin Flynn, Bradley Gale, Courtney Hammond, Katherine Hinds, Mandi Jo John, Patrick Leahy, Jaclyn Miller, Bradford Rahmlow, Eric Rivas, James Stanley, Lindsey Tulloch and Krystina Lowe. BST (Hawaii) – Sixteen individuals graduated from this course April 21 at the Seafarers Barbers Point, Hawaii-based training facility. Completing the course (above, in no particular order) were: Brian Leeds, Douglas Johnson, Andrew Janson, Ricky Lopez, Megan Zupan, Mercedes West, Ronald Montemayor, Matthew Lee, Michelle Conway, Daniel Burgoon, Janese Garrett, Kelly Oja, Gypsy Brown, Kaloian Barbukov, Ahmad Kadi and Katie Kelley. June 2012 Seafarers LOG 23 �Volume 74, Number 6 June 2012 Paul Hall Center Course Dates Page 21 Progress Continues on School’s Waterfront Piney Point Project Slated for Completion Later this Year The waterfront restoration project at the union-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education is staying ahead of schedule, according to school Vice President Don Nolan. As previously reported, the development kicked off in May 2010 on the Piney Point, Md., campus and is on pace to be finished later this year. Among other components, the operation includes the removal of more than 1,500 feet of old piers plus 1,000-plus feet of old bulkheads, the replacement of Pier 45 with a new concrete pier and floating concrete marina (12 double slips). The area’s new features also will include a waterfront park, a single-point davit with fast rescue boat capability, a pier site for the MV John F. Fay training vessel, a lifeboat davit and new lifeboats. The photos on this page were taken at the school from early April to early May. Updates will be included in future editions of the LOG. � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Seafarers Log Issues 2010-2019 Description An account of the resource Volumes LXXII-LXXXI of the Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Seafarers Log Digital Copies Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 2010-2019 Document A resource containing textual data. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre text. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource June 2012 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES MEMBERS RATIFY STANDARD CONTRACTS 5-YEAR AGREEMENTS BOOST WAGES, MAINTAIN BENEFITS CEREMONIES HONOR U.S. MARINERS SIU GAINS JOBS AS BBC SEATTLE REFLAGS UNDER ‘STARS AND STRIPES’ UNION’S GREAT LAKES CREWS WELCOME NEW CONTRACTS, ADDITIONAL TONNAGE USNS CESAR CHAVEZ CHRISTENED AT NASSCO ST. LOUIS PORT MARITIME COUNCIL HONORS 3 SIU HELPS MAKE INDUSTRY ‘SAIL-IN’ SUCCESSFUL THIRD ANNUAL EVENT CARRIES MARITIME’S MESSAGE TO CAPITOL HILL OCEAN CRESCENT CREW RECEIVES MEDALS FOR MISSION OSG EXECUTIVE: U.S. NEEDS JONES ACT SIU EXEC. VP RALLIES INDUSTRY TO STAND UNITED AGAINST ATTACKS RECERTIFIED STEWARDS SHARE VALUABLE INSIGHTS SIU-CREWED HOSPITAL SHIP MERCY DEPARTS FOR HUMANITARIAN MISSION MEMBERSHIP VOTES YES TO NEW STANDARD CONTRACTS ‘FOURTH ARM OF DEFENSE’ SECRETARY PRAISE CONTRIBUTIONS OF U.S. MARINERS CEREMONIES HONOR U.S. MERCHANT MARINE’S VALIANT HISTORY NATIONAL MARITIME CENTER WEBSITE PROVIDES VALUABLE MARINER RESOURCES PROGRESS CONTINUES ON SCHOOL’S WATERFRONT Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Seafarers Log Digital Copies Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 06/01/2012 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Newsprint Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context Vol. 74, No. 6 http://www.seafarerslog.org/archives/files/original/642feb6134f76e505c9dd7250b05dfc1.pdf 69651efbccc4e43d77fc95d068e9df40 PDF Text Text Volume 74, Number 7 July 2012 Rescue At Sea Horizon Reliance Does It Again SIU members aboard the Horizon Reliance in early June rescued an 81-yearold sailor who had suffered a stroke aboard his sailboat between Hawaii and the West Coast. The Horizon vessel earlier this year handled an even more dramatic rescue in the Pacific. In photo at left, Bosun Kissinfor Taylor carries the stroke victim to safety while Chief Engineer Sean Stevens guards from behind; the gangway had been deployed at sea. Page 2. Great Lakes Group Christens Tugboat SIU members are sailing aboard the new tugboat Handy-Three, pictured below at its christening ceremony in Cleveland (with crew members, shipyard and company personnel and others aboard). The boat is operated by Puerto Rico Towing & Barge Co., a subsidiary of The Great Lakes Group. Page 3. Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan Awards $132,000 for 2012 College Scholarships Page 7 SIU Gains Jobs on BBC Seattle In early June, the newly reflagged cargo ship BBC Seattle (photo at immediate right) finished loading in Sunny Point, N.C., and began her first voyage under the U.S. flag. Operated by AMSEA, the vessel will sail worldwide supporting the U.S. Department of Defense. SIU crew members aboard the ship last month included (from left) Recertified Bosun Arthur Cross, Recertified Steward Juan Gonzalez, SA Sheila Daguio, AB Gerald Kelly, QMED Bernard Smalls and QMED David Terry. Big Win Down Under Page 2 11765_July_2012.indd 1 New NOAA Ship Page 4 More Maritime Day Coverage Page 24 6/21/2012 9:02:27 PM �President’s Report More Jones Act Support Seafarers know that one of the foundations of our industry is a law called the Jones Act, which helps sustain half-a-million American jobs while pumping billions of dollars into our economy. But despite the fact that the Jones Act has helped protect U.S. national and economic security for more than 90 years, the law sometimes comes under attack by groups or individuals who are misguided at best. That’s why it’s so important when key legislators from both political parties like Congressmen Buck McKeon (R-Calif.) and Adam Smith (D-Wash.) speak out on behalf of this crucial law, which specifies that cargo moving between U.S. ports must be carried on ships that are crewed, built, flagged and owned American. The congressmen recently wrote to the Secretaries of Defense, Transportation, Homeland Security and Energy to “urge the Administration to take all steps necessary to ensure that Jones Act vessels are used in the future and that the transporMichael Sacco tation of goods, including petroleum products, is in compliance with our nation’s cabotage laws.” They further stated that it is “critical that the Administration ensure that U.S. vessels and U.S. seafarers are fully utilized before granting any Jones Act waivers.” The letter was written in response to uncalled-for waivers granted last year to foreign vessels that transported oil from the U.S. Strategic Petroleum Reserve. Congressman McKeon chairs the House Armed Services Committee while Congressman Smith is the committee’s ranking member. They concluded, “The Jones Act supports our industrial base and maintains a national maritime infrastructure that helps to ensure there will be ample U.S. sealift capacity to defend our nation…. We recognize the importance of the Jones Act and its invaluable contribution to our nation’s security, which is why we are concerned about any efforts to weaken the law.” No one could have said it better. Members of Congress may not agree on much these days, but they do know the Jones Act is good for America. That’s why it has enjoyed bipartisan support for so many years. Safety Awards and Another Rescue Several SIU-contracted companies recently received safety awards from the U.S. Coast Guard, and almost at the same time as those announcements, the Seafarers-crewed Horizon Reliance was back in the news for its second rescue in the last four months. All of the recognition is well-deserved, and it reflects the overwhelmingly safe operations conducted daily by our members aboard vessels on the deep seas, Great Lakes and inland waterways. For us, a key ingredient to shipboard safety is the training available at our affiliated school in Piney Point, Maryland. Some of our older members and retirees know firsthand that when the school opened in 1967, our training was, by today’s standards, basic, though it met the requirements of that day. But it quickly evolved and has done nothing but improve over the years. Today, it’s a state-of-the-art facility that prepares Seafarers for the routines of shipboard life as well as the unpredictable things that happen at sea. The school is also another example of the partnership that we enjoy with our contracted operators. Many of those companies put substantial backing into the school, because they understand that when a trainee or an upgrader graduates from a safety course at the Paul Hall Center, that mariner is a real asset. And of course, the school is an invaluable resource for Seafarers, who can use it to keep upgrading and advancing their careers. Our school in Piney Point has done a great job not just keeping up with the industry’s needs, but also planning ahead for future concerns. That’s no easy task, but the school’s success also is no accident, and it’s a big reason why I’d stack our SIU crews up against any others across the globe when it comes to safe, reliable performance. Volume 74, Number 7 July 2012 The SIU online: www.seafarers.org The Seafarers LOG (ISSN 1086-4636) is published monthly by the Seafarers International Union; Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU, AFLCIO; 5201 Auth Way; Camp Springs, MD 20746. Telephone (301) 899-0675. Periodicals postage paid at Southern Maryland 20790-9998. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to the Seafarers LOG, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. Communications Director, Jordan Biscardo; Managing Editor/Production, Jim Guthrie; Assistant Editor, Paddy Lehane; Photographer, Harry Gieske; Administrative Support, Misty Dobry. Copyright © 2012 Seafarers International Union, AGLIWD. All Rights Reserved. The Seafarers International Union engaged an environmentally friendly printer for the production of this newspaper. 2 Seafarers LOG 11765_July_2012.indd 2 Horizon Reliance to the Rescue, Again For the second time in four months, the SIU-crewed Horizon Reliance pulled off a dramatic rescue in the Pacific – more recently, coming to the aid of an 81-year-old sailor who had suffered a stroke on June 10. The 893-foot Reliance picked up Robert Bourdon of Longview, Wash., the next day, about halfway between San Diego and Honolulu. Bourdon was sailing with his son and grandson from the West Coast to Hilo, Hawaii, aboard a 33-foot sailboat (the Gallivant) when the stroke occurred. According to news reports, Bourdon was partially paralyzed and couldn’t speak. His family members on the boat contacted the Coast Guard, and the Horizon Initial rescue efforts involved an attempted boat transfer container vessel diverted to the Galli- (above), but Horizon Reliance mariners quickly changed tactics. vant’s location after being called by the agency. Costanzi concluded, “These guys really showed Vessel master Captain Barry Costanzi said the some bravery and seamanship in the time-old tradiReliance first attempted a “boat transfer,” but when tion of rendering assistance at sea. It’s an honor to that maneuver was deemed impractical, they “imme- sail with them.” diately went to plan B, which was to use our crane Family members arrived in Honolulu from Washand a basket” to retrieve Bourdon. The sailboat had ington State in time to meet Bourdon on June 13 as too much rigging, however, so the larger vessel de- crew members carried him on a stretcher down the ployed its gangway in eight-to-10-foot seas. starboard gangway to an awaiting ambulance. AcBosun Kissinfor Taylor hauled Bourdon up the cording to the most recent news reports available accommodation ladder with Chief Engineer Sean at the LOG’s press time, doctors expect Bourdon Stevens right behind them, the captain noted, adding to recover, but he still was paralyzed on his right that Bourdon “was dead weight. He could not walk.” side and unable to speak. Doctors hadn’t determined how long he will remain hospitalized. The sailboat had left Olympia, Wash., on May 17. SIU members sailing aboard the Reliance when the rescue happened included Bosun Taylor, ABs Alan Lumansoc, Rene Rafer, Julius Udan, Ahmed Baabbad, Jerome Luckett, Harold Harper and Venerando Ramos, QEE David Watkins, OMUs Cresente Gumanas, Allen Newgen, Jonas Bocaya, Wilshire Cortez and Mel Sison, GUDE Jamie Merced, EU David Hamilton, Recertified Steward Joseph Laureta, Chief Cooks Teresito Reyes and Romarico Hinayon, SA Mohamed Ahmed and UA Robert Sale. On Feb. 8, the Reliance overcame exceptionally rough nighttime weather Plenty of post-rescue smiles were evident aboard the SIU- to save three individuals, including a crewed ship, as evidenced by (from left) Chief Mate Steve Itson, 9-year-old boy, whose sailboat became Bosun Kissinfor Taylor, Captain Barry Costanzi and Chief Engi- disabled and ultimately sank about 280 miles northeast of Hilo. neer Sean Stevens. MUA: ‘FOC Shipping can be Defeated’ Merchant seamen in Australia are celebrating new landmark legislation that will protect their livelihoods for years to come. The new laws, known as the Shipping Reform Package, won a tight vote in the Australian Parliament thanks to a push by the Maritime Union of Australia (MUA). The head of the MUA, Paddy Crumlin, also serves as the president of the International Transport Workers’ Federation (IFT), to which the SIU is affiliated. Crumlin and the MUA worked for over 10 years to fine-tune and gather support for the bill package, which is regarded by many as the most important maritime reform legislation in more than 100 years, delivering a serious blow to so-called flag-of-convenience (FOC) registries and the abuses that happen aboard some of those vessels. “What Australia has done … is show the way in international shipping,” said Crumlin. “The government has demonstrated that FOC shipping can be defeated and that all seafarers have a right to work in the industry. Cabotage is back on the menu for seafarers worldwide. These bills not only protect the national flag on Australia’s coastline, they privilege it.” Crumlin also praised the ITF and its member unions for their support throughout the entire process, noting that the backing of other maritime groups was a huge boon for the effort. “The support of the ITF was also critical to the political will to enact these wide-ranging and internationally important reforms and the ITF is enshrined in this legislation,” Crumlin said. Among other highlights, the legislation, composed of five bills, gives a zero tax rate for shipping companies in Australia. This serves as an incentive for vessels to fly the Australian flag as opposed to a runway flag. Crumlin and the MUA see this as a guarantee for future work for Australia’s seafarers, and a key step that will help ensure that Australia remains a viable presence in the international maritime trade. “This legislation provides a model for regional labor cooperation,” said Crumlin. “We now call upon other nations around the world to look to Australia’s example and work to protect their own national fleets, cabotage, and workers so that we can do away with flags of convenience forever.” The legislation creates a new register that will allow regional Paddy Crumlin workers from Pacific MUA National Secretary nations to work aboard Australian-flag vessels under Australian collective bargaining agreements. These agreements also guarantee workers’ rights to ITF standards. ITF General Secretary David Cockroft considers this a great victory for working people around the world and notes that it is the first time ITF standards have been incorporated into law on a national level. “This breakthrough … shows that unions are continuing to prove that, even in a globalized world, the need is for responsible shipping that has genuine ties to those who work on ships and the wider populations that they serve,” said Cockroft. The news of the Australian victory was warmly received by the SIU leadership. In a letter to Crumlin, SIU President Michael Sacco commended the MUA and the ITF for their efforts in making sure that strong cabotage laws are at the forefront of a nation’s maritime policy. “We know how long and hard you (Crumlin) and the MUA have been fighting for and encouraging votes to pass these important measures,” said Sacco. “Your efforts show yet again the value of strong cabotage laws that ensure safe jobs with decent wages and benefits for the men and women who ply the seas. This is truly a job well done.” July 2012 6/21/2012 9:02:43 PM �The Handy-Three is home-ported in San Juan, P.R. In the photo at right, U.S. Rep. Marcy Kaptur christens the tugboat at a recent ceremony in Cleveland. (Photo by Donn R. Nottage) Great Lakes Group Christens New Tug ‘Handy-Three’ Signals New Jobs for SIU Members The new tugboat Handy-Three has entered service in Puerto Rico, signifying new jobs for SIU members as well as for members of the Seafarers-affiliated American Maritime Officers. The boat is an outright addition to the Puerto Rico Towing & Barge Co. fleet; the company is a subsidiary of The Great Lakes Group. SIU members working aboard Puerto Rico Towing & Barge vessels have been providing vessel assistance and towing services to commercial vessels and barges in San Juan Harbor, other inland ports, and waters throughout the Caribbean for more than 15 years. Recently constructed at Great Lakes Shipyard in Cleveland, the Handy-Three is the fifth tug in the company’s fleet. The new tug is the third of a class designed by Jensen Maritime Consultants of Seattle, and is built specifically for harbor work and coastal barge towing. It is 74 feet long, has a beam of 30 feet, and a design draft of 11.5 feet. The tug’s free-running speed is 12 knots. In announcing the delivery, The Great Lakes Group noted, “By making this $5.7 million investment in a harbor tug, the company improves the efficiency of the fleet’s round-the-clock towing services and demonstrates the company’s continued commitment to the local economy by creating sustainable career jobs and putting money back into Puerto Rico.” A christening ceremony in Puerto Rico was expected to take place in late June or early July. A naming ceremony happened May 2 at the yard in Cleveland; U.S. Rep. Marcy Kaptur (D-Ohio), a longtime supporter of the U.S. Merchant Marine and American shipbuilding, served as the tug’s sponsor. SIU Vice President Great Lakes and Inland TSA Announces Option for 3-Year ‘Extended Expiration Date’ TWIC The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) on June 15 announced that, starting August 30, certain individuals holding Transportation Worker Identification Credentials will have the option of replacing their expiring TWICs with a three-year Extended Expiration Date TWIC. That credential will cost $60 and may be obtained with a single trip to an enrollment center. The TSA has posted a one-page “Policy Bulletin” covering the basics at www.tsa. gov/twic, along with a four-page “Overview and FAQ” and the related update to the Code of Federal Regulations. All of those papers may be accessed from the TSA’s TWIC home page, and all are directly linked in a June 15 news post on www.seafarers.org. Part of the TSA Policy Bulletin announcement reads as follows: Effective August 30, 2012, TWIC holders who are U.S. citizens or U.S. nationals, and whose TWICs will expire on or before December 31, 2014, have two options to renew their TWIC. They may either replace their expiring TWIC with a 3-year Extended Expiration Date (EED) TWIC or obtain a standard 5-year replacement. All TWIC holders should begin the application process at least 30 days before his or her TWIC expires. The EED TWIC is a one-time temporary extension option intended to provide convenience and cost-savings to workers pending the deployment of TWIC readers. TWIC holders who are not U.S. citizens or U.S. nationals are required to enroll for a standard 5-year replacement upon expiration of their current TWIC. Option 1 – Replacing expiring TWIC with 3-year EED TWIC July 2012 11765_July_2012.indd 3 (Limited to U.S. Citizens and U.S. Nationals) - $60 Fee & 1 Trip to an Enrollment Center Eligibility: n Individuals are eligible to obtain a 3-year EED TWIC if they meet the following requirements: - They are a U.S. Citizen or U.S. National AND - Their current TWIC is valid and not revoked AND - Their current TWIC is currently unexpired, but expires on or before December 31, 2014. n If any of the above requirements are not met, then the individual is not eligible for a 3-year EED TWIC and should apply for a standard 5-year renewal TWIC (option 2). n As long as an individual maintains eligibility, he/she can obtain a 3-year EED TWIC prior to the expiration of their current TWIC before December 31, 2014. Application Process: n Call the help desk (1-866-347-8942, Mon–Fri, 8AM to 10PM Eastern) to begin the application process. n The help desk will confirm whether the individual meets the eligibility requirements. n Once the EED TWIC arrives at the enrollment center specified by the individual, the individual will be notified for pick up and activation of their 3-year EED TWIC. n The individual should turn in the original TWIC upon receipt of the EED, as it will be revoked at the time of activation of the EED TWIC. Waters Tom Orzechowski represented the union at the event. “We have to play to our strengths in creating new jobs,” said Congresswoman Kaptur. “One of our historical assets along the North Coast has been shipbuilding. In a globalized economy, the demand of maritime transportation will grow dramatically, and we can take advantage of that opportunity right here if we work together.” At the naming ceremony, Ron Rasmus, president of The Great Lakes Group, said Kaptur “is here today because of her sponsorship and commitment to small shipyards.” Third JHSV Under Construction The U.S. Navy’s new Joint High Speed Vessels (JHSV) have been making a splash over the course of the spring and into summer with one vessel having passed builder’s sea trials and another starting construction and being named by the Secretary of the Navy. The latest JHSV vessel, known as JHSV-3, was recently given its official name by Navy Secretary Ray Mabus. The new ship will be officially called the USNS Millinocket and will be crewed by SIU members from the Government Services Division. The ship’s name is honor of citizens from the towns of East Millinocket and Millinocket, Maine. The latter town was once home to the largest paper mill in the world and during the Great Depression, workers at the mill collectively agreed to work less hours, ensuring that everyone would be able to keep their jobs and the town would survive. In February 2012, the USS Stephen W. Groves was decommissioned. The ship was named after a resident of East Millinocket, Ensign Stephen W. Groves, who was a Navy pilot. Groves was awarded the Navy Cross for bravery during the Battle of Midway in World War II. Mabus chose to honor him, and his hometown, for his service via the JHSV program. “Millinocket displays American values of community and ingenuity at their best,” said Mabus. “I chose to name the joint high speed vessel after East Millinocket and Millinocket to honor those values and the men and women of the community that represents them no less today than it did in the early 1900s.” The USNS Millinocket is being constructed in Mobile, Ala., by Austal USA but its estimated delivery date to the U.S. Navy has yet to be announced. The second ship in the series, the USNS Choctaw County, also is under construction at the yard and is expected to launch later this year. In other JHSV news, the first of the vessels has recently undergone builder’s sea trails and is waiting to enter service. JHSV-1, otherwise known as the USNS Spearhead, performed to a high standard and passed the builder’s trials with flying colors. The Spearhead is awaiting approval from the Navy itself and is expected to be delivered for service sometime this year. The JHSVs are a versatile, noncombatant class of ship that will be used to transport troops, vehicles, and other military equipment quickly. The vessels will have the capability to sail at an average speed of 35 knots while transporting 600 short tons over a distance of 1,200 nautical miles. The ships have a top speed of over 43 knots. They are nearly 388 feet long, have a 93-foot beam, and a nearly 13foot draft. The Navy expects to purchase more than 20 of the vessels over the next 30 years. As previously reported, the Navy’s current contract with Austal is for the construction of 10 JHSVs. The first four of the 10 will be crewed by federally employed civil service mariners, while the next six are slated to be crewed by civilian mariners working for private companies under contract to MSC. Military mission personnel will embark as required by the mission sponsors. Seafarers LOG 3 6/21/2012 9:02:45 PM �NOAA Commissions New High-Tech Vessel The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has recently commissioned a new, high-tech vessel in Norfolk, Va., that will map and monitor the seafloor to assist in rerouting merchant and military ships. The new ship, the Ferdinand R. Hassler, will be crewed by members of the SIU’s Government Services Division. “With the growth in the size of commercial vessels and the importance of waterborne commerce to our economic security, there is a critical need for accurate information about our coastal waterways,” said Kathryn Sullivan, Ph.D., assistant secretary of commerce for environmental observation and prediction. “This advanced NOAA survey vessel will play a vital role in ensuring safe navigation and commerce as we work each and every day to position America for the future.” The new ship will have the capacity to locate hazards in the seafloor, provide critical information that can be used to update nautical maps, and offer some scientific observation of the seafloors on the U.S. coastline. According to NOAA, the Hassler will be operating primarily along the Gulf and Atlantic coasts, the Caribbean, and even the Great Lakes. The ship “is also equipped to deploy buoys and unmanned submersibles and conduct general oceanographic research. Ferdinand R. Hassler’s twin-hull design is particularly suited to NOAA’s mission to map the ocean floor, as it is more stable than a single-hull vessel,” the agency reported. The vessel’s name was picked by a group of 10th-grade contest winners and their teacher from Naugatuck High School in Naugatuck, Conn. Ferdinand Hassler was the founding superintendent of the Coast Survey, which was created by Thomas Jefferson in 1807. Catherine Sununu, wife of former New Hampshire Senator John Sununu, served as the ship’s sponsor in the June 8 ceremony at the NOAA Marine Operations Center-Atlantic. The Hassler is equipped with stateof-the-art technology and has the potential to make a big impact on important oceanographic projects. The newly commissioned NOAA ship Ferdinand Hassler means new jobs for public-sector Seafarers. “NOAA Ship Ferdinand R. Hassler represents a major step forward in NOAA’s effort to modernize the agency’s fleet,” said Rear Adm. Jonathan Bailey, director of the NOAA Office of Marine Maersk Texas Crew Safe Following Pirate Attack SIU-Crewed Tugs Move USS Iowa Seafarers-crewed Crowley Maritime tugboats including the Master, Scout (inset) and Leader recently helped move the USS Iowa – one of the most powerful battleships of all time. With an assist from the SIU-crewed boats, the Iowa (above) on June 9 journeyed through the main channel of the Port of Los Angeles to her permanent home, Berth 87, near the World Cruise Center in San Pedro, Calif. The Pacific Battleship Center, which owns the ship, is scheduled to celebrate its public grand opening as an interactive naval museum on July 7. Coast Guard Honors SIU-Contracted Companies Crowley Maritime Recognized by NOAA SIU-contracted companies were among those recently recognized by the U.S. Coast Guard for environmental excellence. The agency in late May announced the recipients of the 2012 Biennial Rear Admiral William M. Benkert Marine Environmental Protection Award for Excellence at the American Petroleum Institute Tanker Conference in Orlando, Fla. Winners in various categories included the Seafarers-contracted companies Matson Navigation; Maersk Line, Limited; and U.S. Shipping Corp. According to the Coast Guard, the program “recognizes corporations and businesses involved in marine facility or vessel operations that have demonstrated sustained excellence and outstanding achievement in protecting the marine environment. It also encourages innovations in operations, maintenance, cargo handling, refueling, training, and provides a means for award recipients to share their successful methods and techniques with others in industry.” Also in late May, SIU-contracted Crowley Maritime Corporation was chosen as a 2011 Company Award winner for the United States National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) Voluntary Observing Ship (VOS) program. The selection was based on Crowley’s 48 vessels providing 204,430 “highly accurate and timely weather observations for the U.S. VOS program in 2011,” according 4 Seafarers LOG 11765_July_2012.indd 4 and Aviation Operations and the NOAA Corps. “This new, highly capable ship will enable surveyors to map waterways and coastal areas both accurately and efficiently.” to the company. “Particularly impressive was Crowley’s St. Louis Express, a cargo vessel contributing 4,926 observations in 2011, ranking her the second-highest reporting vessel in the entire U.S. program.” The VOS program, which was established in 1853, relies on volunteer crew members on nearly 1,000 ships around the world to monitor the weather at their locations and submit the observations to national meteorological services. This data is used to create marine weather forecasts and is archived for future use by climatologists and other scientists. “Our vessels’ crew members have been contributing firsthand weather data to VOS for decades,” said Mike Golonka, general manager of Crowley’s ship management division. “As a former volunteer on board our vessels, I am especially proud of Crowley’s history with the program. This company is committed to continuing to support it. We see the impact it has each day on our own vessel operations, and we are very appreciative of this recognition.” “The invaluable efforts provided by the Crowley fleet of ships collecting and disseminating weather and oceanographic observations, during their voyages, is greatly appreciated by the VOS program,” said Helmut H. Portmann, director, National Data Buoy Center of the NOAA, in a letter to Crowley. “Your crews’ hard work and dedication has reflected great credit upon your company and the maritime community. Your contributions make a world of difference.” The SIU-crewed Maersk Texas thwarted an attack by pirates in the Gulf of Oman on May 23 with the help of their onboard security team. At around noon on May 23, reports came in that there was a possible pirate attack in progress. As more reports were posted, it became clear that the Texas was indeed under attack by several skiffs with armed men aboard. The vessel was roughly 70 nautical miles southeast of the Strait of Hormuz when watchstanders noticed roughly 8-10 skiffs approaching the vessel at a high rate of speed. This caused the captain to attempt evasive maneuvers to try and deter the skiffs from getting close. In addition, the crew and the security team took other defensive actions in a last-ditch effort to get the pirates to back off. Those tactics included spraying fire houses at the skiffs and firing warning shots. Things took a turn for the worse as the armed men aboard the skiffs, ranging from four to six men per skiff (possibly more), opened fire on the Texas. To make matters more complicated, there were also civilian fishing vessels in the area which added to confusion. However, due to the professionalism and training of both the crew and the security team, no harm came to any fishermen or their ships. “Despite clear warning signals, the skiffs continued their direct line toward Maersk Texas and the embarked security team fired warning shots,” said a representative of Maersk Line, Limited, the ship operator, in a release to the media. “The pirates then fired upon Maersk Texas, and the security team returned fire per established U.S. Coast Guard rules of engagement.” Once the pirates opened fire, the security team saw no other option other than engaging the pirates head-on. The security team returned fire and engaged in a brief firefight with the pirates that resulted in their retreat. In the meantime, the crew gathered in the citadel while the captain called out for assistance. The Iranian Navy was quick to respond over the radio. According to Bloomberg News, the Iranian Navy “provided guidance to the crew of the Maersk Texas by radio.” Thankfully, all crew members aboard are safe and accounted for. The Texas continued on its route from Kuwait to Beaumont, Texas. The SIU members aboard the ship at the time of the attack included Bosun Kennard Campbell, AB Robert Boudreaux, QDW Tyesha Boyd, GVA Willie Clemmons Jr., GUDE Roderick Thomas, QDW Courtney Price, AB Michael Congress, QEE Gary Dahl, AB Billy Hill, OS Melvin Hill, SB Michael McDermott, and ACU Paula Hopson. The SIU is committed to ensuring that Seafarers work in safe environments at all times. The union has made it clear that much more needs to be done to prevent and eliminate the threat of piracy for mariners. Among many other activities, the SIU is a supporter of the SaveOurSeafarers campaign, which is devoted to spreading the word and cultivating action on piracy issues in the Indian Ocean, Persian Gulf, Gulf of Aden, and elsewhere. For more information, and to sign a petition drawing attention to this problem, go to www.saveourseafarers.org. July 2012 6/21/2012 9:02:50 PM �Maritime Unions: The SIU in mid-June fired back after an article by a U.S. Coast Guard captain left many in the industry incredulous. The union posted its own response on June 14 and then, a day later, joined with the American Maritime Officers, the Marine Engineers’ Beneficial Association, and the International Organization of Masters, Mates & Pilots in sending a related letter to Coast Guard Commandant Adm. Robert Papp. That letter came from the respective presidents of the nation’s major seagoing unions: Michael Sacco of the SIU, Tom Bethel of the AMO, Mike Jewell of the MEBA and Tim Brown of the MM&P. Both of the union communications said that an editorial by Coast Guard Captain Eric Christensen – from its headline to much of its content – not only didn’t ring true, but also opened the U.S.-flag fleet to unwarranted criticism. Christensen is the agency’s chief of commercial vessel compliance. In its individual reply, the SIU said Christensen’s article, titled “Sounding the Alarm on U.S.-Flag Compliance,” paints an “unfair and inaccurate picture of the American-flag fleet and its operators. He leads the reader to believe there’s an epidemic of non-compliance by U.S. operators, when in fact the Coast Guard’s own data shows that less than one-half of one percent of American-flag vessels have reportable problems.” Further, the SIU asserted, the captain’s article “is a blanket indictment that ignores the achievements the U.S.-flag industry has made in training, safety and education. This would be roughly the equivalent of our posting an editorial suggesting that Coast Guard officers are untrustworthy because a single one of them got caught selling mariner credentials. “Christensen’s paper,” the SIU continued, “cites only one specific recent case – and that one involves a non-union company that is infamous in American maritime circles. (The company isn’t named in the paper but it doesn’t have to be; anyone familiar with that outfit’s “record” knows them by the description.)” The SIU also pointed out that U.S. maritime unions and American-flag ship operators “share all of the goals Christensen mentions in his paper: safety for the crews, safety for the ships, and safety for the environment. We collectively spend billions of dollars and incalculable man-hours pursuing those goals and have set standards above those set by international conventions.” Meanwhile, the four union presidents delved into some of the more technical aspects of the original article, including a flagstate control regime (to which the U.S. is not a party) called the Paris MOU. America’s most recent classification by that regime, largely the basis for Christensen’s article, “does not come as a surprise,” wrote the labor officials. “The maritime unions have been advising the Coast Guard for some time that such an outcome would come to pass if steps were not taken to more efficiently administer regulations and correct failures, particularly with non-union companies with historically bad track records on maintenance, safety and regulatory compliance. To place the blame on the shoulders of all American shipowners and crews, however, fails to recognize the true issue and is extremely disingenuous.” They further reminded the commandant that the Paris MOU “acknowledges that of the 174 vessel inspections of U.S.-flag vessels by its member states, only seven vessel detentions have been recorded. This is hardly an ‘alarming trend’ representative of a significant decline in statutory and international convention compliance…. “We believe that part of the problem lies in the United States regulatory regime that the Coast Guard administers in accordance with the Administrative Procedures Act itself. The rulemaking procedures in the Act make it difficult for the USCG to respond to IMO treaty obligations in a timely fashion…. Even simply updating American regulations to conform to international standards can take a considerable amount of time. Changes to the APA are unlikely, making Coast Guard Congratulating Honoree from LIUNA Officials from the SIU and the Maritime Trades Department joined in congratulating Laborers International Union of North America Secretary-Treasurer Armand Sabitoni (second from left) during the 24th annual Sons of Italy Foundation “National Education & Leadership Awards Gala.” Sabitoni was honored May 23 in Washington, D.C. Pictured from left are MTD Executive Secretary-Treasurer Daniel Duncan, Sabitoni, SIU/MTD President Michael Sacco, SIU VP Contracts George Tricker and SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel. The Sons of Italy Foundation is the philanthropic branch of the Order Sons of Italy in America. ILO Elects Ryder to Executive Post The International Labor Organization (ILO), a global body that serves the world’s working people and is affiliated with the United Nations (U.N.), recently announced that Guy Ryder has been elected as the organization’s director-general. Ryder, who currently serves as the ILO’s executive director for international labor standards and fundamental principles and rights at work, will begin a five-year term in October. “I am really excited about this chance,” said Ryder. “This is a tremendous opportunity, in the middle of this global crisis, to make a difference to the lives of millions of people, including those who’ve never heard of the ILO, to change their lives for the better.” The ILO is an organization that is responsible for creating and implementing global labor standards. The ILO is also the only U.N. agency that works on a “tripartite” level, meaning that the organization is not only composed of worker organizations like unions, but also employers and governments. This, according to the ILO website, allows the organization to do more complete and far-reaching work. The director-general is responsible for implementing the group’s strategies worldwide. Ryder’s nomination has been praised by July 2012 11765_July_2012.indd 5 Coast Guard Editorial ‘Unfair and Inaccurate’ numerous labor unions, government officials, and international nongovernmental organizations. Ryder has spent the vast majority of his career, which spans more than 25 years, in the international labor arena working with unions in his native England as well as being an international worker rights advocate. “I extend my congratulations to Guy Ryder on his election as the new director-general of the International Labor Organization and wish him the greatest success in his new position,” said U.S Secretary of Labor Hilda Solis. “Mr. Ryder has been a great advocate of the world’s working people, both as a trade union leader and in his work at the ILO.” International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF) General Secretary David Cockroft also praises the election of Ryder as a great leap forward for working people around the globe. The ITF is an international federation comprised of transportation unions, including the Seafarers International Union. SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel serves as the chair of the Seafarers’ Section of the ITF. “Guy is one of my oldest friends, and I can think of no one better qualified to build on the undoubted successes of his predecessors,” Cockroft said. interim guidance and advisory notices critical to bridging the gap until final regulations are promulgated.” Sacco, Bethel, Jewell and Brown also said that a “resistance” by the agency’s legal division to permitting the Coast Guard to “disseminate non-mandatory advisory notices on international requirements until after regulations are in place, compounds this problem rather than alleviating it. The result is that U.S.-flag ships and operators are left to their own devices in determining how to comply with IMO requirements, thus exposing them to penalties from port state control regimes like the Paris MOU. This is presently occurring with the STCW Manila Amendments related to work and rest hours. Although the new STCW Manila Amendments came into effect January 1, 2012, USCG has not yet promulgated regulations conforming to the international standard nor offered any effective guidance.” They concluded, “In the future, we would prefer to work together to resolve these issues, rather than have senior Coast Guard officials indict the entire industry because of the bad behavior of a very small minority of bad actors in public…. As always, we remain committed to ensuring that American mariners are the best trained and most professional mariners in the world.” GLMTF Names Ohio Rep. Gibbs Great Lakes Legislator of Year U.S. Rep. Bob Gibbs (R-Ohio) has been named 2012 Great Lakes Legislator of the Year by the largest labor/management coalition representing workers and industries dependent on shipping on America’s fourth sea coast. Rep. Gibbs, who represents Ohio’s 18th District in the House of Representatives, formally received the award from Great Lakes Maritime Task Force (GLMTF) in Washington, D.C., on June 6. The SIU is a member of the task force. “Rep. Gibbs’ first term in Congress has been remarkably focused on the issue that will most decide the future of Great Lakes shipping – the dredging crisis,” said Eugene Caldwell, president of the GLMTF. “He was the 100th co-sponsor of the RAMP (Restore America’s Maritime Promise) Act. This legislation requires the Harbor Maintenance Trust Fund (HMTF) to spend all the tax dollars it collects for dredging on dredging, as it was originally intended. Currently the HMTF also serves as a surplus that is then used to paper balance the budget. More than 16 million cubic yards of sediment clog the Great Lakes navigation system and the backlog will grow to 28 million by 2016 unless dredging is adequately funded.” Caldwell, who is also vice president and general manager of Bay Shipbuilding Company in Sturgeon Bay, Wis., stressed that many provisions of the RAMP Act have been incorporated in the Transportation Reauthorization bills passed by both the House and the Senate. “As chairman of the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee’s Subcommittee on Water Resources and Environment, Rep. Gibbs’ support was key in many legislators’ decision to endorse the goals of the RAMP Act and will be when the two chambers conference on their transportation reauthorization bills.” Few states are more negatively impacted by the dredging crisis than Ohio. In a strong economy, its nine deep-draft ports can handle more than 50 million tons of cargo. “Rep. Gibbs understands that resolving the dredging crisis is not just good for Ohio, it’s good for America,” said Don Cree, first vice president of the GLMTF. “Ohio is the second-largest steel-producing state in the country and it takes 1.5 tons of Lakesdelivered iron ore to make a ton of steel. When Great Lakes freighters can again deliver full loads of iron ore and other cargos to Ohio and other Great Lakes states as well, our national U.S. Representative economy will Bob Gibbs (R-Ohio) be stronger.” Congressman Gibbs also monitors other issues that affect shipping on the fourth sea coast, including the importance of adequate Coast Guard icebreaking resources. Upon his selection for the award, Rep. Gibbs said, “I am honored to receive the Great Lakes Maritime Task Force’s Great Lakes Legislator of the Year Award as the economic importance of maritime trade [must not] be underestimated…. The dredging crisis concerns me because harbors that have not been dredged to their proper depth will not only reduce ship traffic and freight at that port, but also will increase shipping costs…. Our Great Lakes ports and waterways must be at their authorized depths and widths so raw materials and general cargo are able to move domestically and overseas in an efficient and economical manner…. Every inch of depth means more cargo can be shipped, and with our nation attempting to increase exports, we need to ensure that all our ports are operating at their full potential and ships aren’t running half-full.” Founded in 1992, Great Lakes Maritime Task Force promotes domestic and international shipping on the Great Lakes. With 82 members, it is the largest coalition to ever speak for the Great Lakes shipping community and draws its membership from both labor and management representing U.S.-flag vessel operators, shipboard and longshore unions, port authorities, cargo shippers, terminal operators, shipyards and other Great Lakes interests. Seafarers LOG 5 6/21/2012 9:02:52 PM �SIU President Michael Sacco Executive VP Augie Tellez Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel Jacksonville Hosts Regional, Trustees Meetings Members Thank President Sacco, Executive Board for Exhibiting ‘Extraordinary Leadership’ Jacksonville, Fla., was a hub of activity for the SIU during the first week of June. In addition to the regular monthly membership meeting on June 7, Seafarers and SIU officials gathered at the union hall for a Gulf Coast regional meeting; and, the Seafarers Board of Trustees also met that week. During the regional meeting, members from the area along with local SIU employees presented SIU President Michael Sacco with a plaque thanking him and the union’s executive board for “extraordinary leadership and continuous support.” The photos on this page were taken June 7 at the hall, located on Belfort Road. VP Contracts George Tricker Gulf Coast VP Dean Corgey VP Government Services Kermett Mangram Seafarers Plans Administrator Maggie Bowen Steward/Baker Shirley Bellamy (holding plaque in photo below) presents a token of appreciation to SIU President Michael Sacco and the executive board. Pictured from left to right around Bellamy are AB Gerald Alford, OMU Darnell O’Hara, QMED Lamont Robinson, AB Thomas Conry, Steward/Baker Allen Van Buren, Chief Cook Jose Constantino and QMED Florencio Marfa. Below is a shot of the plaque that Bellamy presented to President Sacco. Members fill the hall in Jacksonville, Fla. 6 Seafarers LOG 11765_July_2012.indd 6 July 2012 6/21/2012 9:03:01 PM �SHBP Awards $132,000 in Scholarships Eight individuals—three active Seafarers and five dependents—now are better financially prepared to pursue their respective higher education goals thanks to grants totaling $132,000 that have been bestowed upon them by the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan (SHBP). Members of the SHBP Scholarship Committee, who convened in Carmel, Calif., May 11, selected Seafarers Daniel Giles, Curtrina Duck and Jesse Tornabene along with dependents Kathryn Flanagan, Julio Marcone, Patricia Madrio, Abigail Tesfaye and Heidi Garner as recipients of the Calendar Year 2012 Charlie Logan Scholarships. Giles was designated to receive a $20,000 grant to cover the costs associated with a four-year degree while Duck and Tornabene each were selected to garner $6,000 to pursue their respective educational goals in programs offering two-year courses of study. Each of the dependents landed scholarships of $20,000 to help realize their respective aspirations at four-year colleges or universities. Daniel Giles AB Daniel Giles was born in Norfolk, Va., and is a 2000 graduate of First Colonial High School in Virginia Beach, Va. Following high school, he held a variety of positions while working in restaurants and on organic farms. “In each of these distinctive lifestyles, something was missing,” Giles said. “Very rarely was I challenged mentally. “Just as I would find intellectual stimulation it would be time to get back to work,” he continued. “I would share ideas from what I was reading about neuroscience, astronomy or physics with co-workers only to receive blank and bewildered stares.” Brother Giles joined the SIU in 2007. He enrolled in and attended the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. It was there that he earned his merchant mariner credentials and began what has been a very promising career on the high seas. Most recently, he sailed aboard the USNS Invincible. “As a teenager, I didn’t know what I wanted or why I should continue school to achieve it,” he said. “Now, however, I see that the world of academics is where I belong. The idea of spending years in libraries and laboratories, surrounded by other curious and hungry minds seems so right that it’s hard to believe it took me this long to realize it.” Brother Giles will pursue his degree in the sciences, most likely biology or chemistry with a minor in mathematics. He hopes to attend Portland State University, Oregon State University or Concordia University. Curtrina Duck AB Curtrina Duck joined the SIU in 2008 and like Brother Giles received her merchant mariner training at the Paul Hall Center. She has upgraded her skills on several occasions at the Southern Marylandbased school, most recently in 2010. Born in Norfolk, she is a 2002 graduate of the city’s Booker T. Washington High School. Following graduation, she worked as a customer service representative in a call center and later as a medical biller and coder. Her SIU career to date has included voyages aboard deep sea vessels. Sister Duck most recently sailed aboard the Pomeroy, op- July 2012 11765_July_2012_2X.indd 7 erated by Ocean Shipholdings. “My goal is to become a registered nurse,” the able bodied seaman said. Although she has not yet decided the specific nursing specialty she will pursue, she is anxious to assist others. “I am looking forward to helping and caring for people of all ages, races, sizes and genders,” she said. “I think the body is a unique form and it hurts my heart to see people who are hopelessly suffering with poor health conditions. I am an upbeat person and I think that I could do well with making a person smile, while at the same time caring for their needs.” Sister Duck enrolled in and was admitted to Tidewater Community College in 2011 and still attends that school today. She is studying nursing and resides in Chesapeake, Va. Jesse Tornabene QMED Jesse Tornabene donned the union colors in 2004 in Piney Point and like the former SIU scholarship recipients underwent his merchant mariner training there. A frequent upgrader, Brother Tornabene most recently returned to the school earlier this year. A native of New Orleans, Brother Tornabene graduated from Northshore High School in 2002. Following high school he took on work as a pump station attendant in Jefferson Parish, La. Two years later he joined the union. He currently works aboard the SBX-1. “My pursuit for a higher education began when I arrived in Piney Point, Maryland, to attend the apprenticeship program at the Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship,” Brother Tornabene said. “The trainee program revealed to me how much I didn’t know and the fundamentals I lacked. Continuing my education has remained a priority since I arrived at the Paul Hall Center seven years ago.” Brother Tornabene has applied for admission to Delgado Community College in New Orleans as well as at California National University for Advanced Studies. He is currently enrolled at the University of Phoenix. To date, he has earned nine credits and is pursuing his degree in engineering and business administration. Kathryn Flanagan Kathryn Flanagan hails from New Milford, Conn. She is the daughter of Recertified Bosun Thomas Flanagan (and mother, Betty Ann,) and has two siblings. Flanagan is a 2012 graduate of New Milford High School where she held membership in both the National Honor Society and French Honor Society. She also was a member of her school’s marching band and graduated in the top five percent of her class. Flanagan has done volunteer work in her community with food banks and soup kitchens. “Since childhood, I have always been fascinated by life and all it represents,” she said. Over the years, she continued, her keen interest in the human experience has developed into a definite passion: educational biology. “As I moved through high school, my future plans became very clear, and I have tried to excel and go the extra mile while exploring a life in science,” she continued. This extra dedication has translated into fresh perspectives not only about life in general but also about individuals who play significant roles in the life experiences of others. Flanagan plans to major in educational biology at the University of Connecticut, ColbySawyer College or SUNY Stony Brook. Julio Marcone Julio Marcone is the son of Steward/ Baker Julio Marcone (and mother, Angelica) who sails aboard the Intrepid Ship Management operated Courage. He has two siblings. Born in Florida, Marcone is a 2012 graduate of Fort Lauderdale High School where he finished his upper secondary educational experience with a 4.48 grade point average. He ranked 26th in his class of 381 and held membership in the National Honor Society. Additionally, Marcone was a member of his school’s marching band and debating team. “I like to think that I have an accurate bearing on my own skills and a wellthought out, if broad idea, of what I want to study,” Marcone said. “My recurring interests are political science and some path to medical school.” He also has considered studying biology or chemistry as a first step into a medical career. Marcone hopes to pursue his studies at Boston University, Amherst College, Tulane University or the University of Florida. Patricia Madrio Patricia Madrio is a 2012 graduate of New Milford High School in New Milford, Conn. The daughter of ABG Roy Madrio (and mother, Mary, a registered nurse), she has two brothers. Madrio graduated with 4.13 GPA ranking 20th in her class of 352 students. She was a member of the National Honor Society, Kiwanis Club and Rotary Club. Madrio served as secretary for both NHS and Rotary Clubs. “I plan on majoring in nursing….,” she said. “As proven by my mother’s stable work conditions, nursing will provide a stepping stone to a variety of careers. “Nursing will provide a way for me to become, ultimately, a medical lawyer,” she continued. “With a nursing background, I will be able to apply my knowledge to the cases that I am presented with.” She will pursue her nursing degree at Northeastern University, Pennsylvania State University or the University of Connecticut. Abigail Tesfaye Abigail Tesfaye hails from Houston. She is the daughter of QEE Tesfaye Gebregziabher (and mother Ruth) and has one sibling. A 2012 graduate of the High School for Performing and Visual Arts in Houston, Tesfaye finished 35th in her class, which numbered 149 students. She was a member of the National Honor Society, Business Professionals of America and the Fusion Orchestra. Tesfaye also is active in her church as a youth group leader and worship leader. In the area of community service, she has done volunteer work in retirement homes and served as a camp counselor. She works as a sales associate in a nationally acclaimed apparel company. Tesfaye will pursue her bachelor’s degree in English at Concordia, Baylor University, Texas A&M or the University of Houston. Heidi Garner Heidi Garner hails from Knotts Island, N.C., and is the daughter of Capt. Edward Garner (and mother, Heather, a teacher’s assistant) and has one sibling. Born in Virginia Beach, Va., Garner is a 2011 graduate of Currituck County High School in Barco, N.C. She posted a 4.43 GPA and ranked 14th in her class among 246 students. While at Currituck County High, Garner was a varsity cheerleader and held membership in the Disney Movie Club, the Companion Animal Club and the Beta Book Club. In addition, she served as a counselor–in-waiting during a Ferrum College (Virginia) Summer Enrichment Camp. Garner currently attends N.C. State University where she is majoring in elementary education. She has earned 15 credits while posting an overall 3.6 GPA. Scholarship Committee Members of the calendar year 2012 SHBP Scholarship Committee on May 11 met in Carmel, Calif., to choose this year’s award recipients. Comprising the committee (above from left to right) were: Dr. Louis Fernandez, provost and vice president academic affairs, California State University, San Bernardino; Dr. Hank Toutain, dean of students, Kenyon College; Dr. Gayle Olson, University of New Orleans (retired); Dr. Trevor Carpenter, College of Southern Maryland (retired); Dr. Keith Schlender, associate VP academic affairs, Lourdes University; and Dr. Charlie Lyons Jr., American Association of Colleges and Universities (retired) and a committee member since 1968. Also on the committee, but not pictured is Dr. Michael Glaser, St. Mary’s College (retired). Seafarers LOG 7 6/22/2012 6:30:55 PM �Alaskan Explorer Alaskan Navigator Seafarers Ratify Standard Contracts As reported last month, SIU members overwhelmingly have approved the new standard freightship and tanker agreements. The five-year contracts call for yearly wage increases while maintaining benefits. The contracts take effect July 1 and run through June 2017. Pictured on this page are SIU members on vessels and at the New Orleans hall voting in favor of the new standard contracts. Ocean Freedom Horizon Spirit Jean Anne 8 Seafarers LOG 11765_July_2012.indd 8 Maersk Ohio Jean Anne Maersk Wyoming Horizon Tacoma New Orleans Hall Overseas Los Angeles Sealand Champion Sealand Charger Sealand Lightning July 2012 6/21/2012 9:03:20 PM �U.S. Military, Government Leaders Urge Passage of Law of Sea Treaty On May 23, United States defense and diplomatic leaders urged the Senate to ratify the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea – known in maritime circles by its acronym, UNCLOS. Defense Secretary Leon Panetta along with Army General Martin Dempsey, the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, joined Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton in testimony before the Senate Foreign Relations Committee. All three urged the committee to approve the treaty. Panetta told the Senate panel, “I strongly believe that [ratification of] this treaty is absolutely essential, not only to our economic interests and our diplomatic interests, but I’m here to say that it is extremely important to our national security interests as well. I join a lot of the military voices of the past and present that have spoken so strongly in support of this treaty.” The treaty, which came into force in 1994, has been waiting for Senate ratification ever since. Clinton said it is “imperative” that America act now. She also stated: “No country is better served by this convention than the United States. As the world’s foremost maritime power, we benefit from the convention’s favorable freedom of navigation provisions. As the country with the world’s second-longest coast- line, we benefit from its provisions on offshore natural resources.” A total of 161 countries have approved the treaty. “We’re the only industrial power that has failed to do that,” Panetta said. “And as a result, we don’t have a seat at the table.” The SIU and the rest of American maritime labor have Defense Secretary Leon Panetta long been in favor of testifies on the Law of the Sea United States ratifi- Convention before the Senate Relations Committee in cation of UNCLOS. Foreign Washington, D.C. (Photos by U.S. D e m p s e y s a i d Navy Petty Officer 1st Class Chad U . S . r a t i f i c a t i o n J. McNeeley) would strengthen America’s ability to utilize sea power. “And, it reinforces the sovereign immunity of our warships as they conduct operations,” he stated. America’s absence from the treaty “plays into the hands of foreign states that seek to bend customary law to restrict movement on the oceans,” the chairman added. “And, it puts our warships and aircraft ‘on point’ to constantly challenge claims. “But, the force of arms does not have to be – and should not be – our only national security instrument. Joining the convention would provide us another way to stave off conflict with less risk of escalation.” In additional to its economic provisions, the treaty establishes specific jurisdictional limits on the ocean area that countries may claim, including a 12-mile territorial sea limit and a 200-mile exclusive economic zone limit. A number of countries currently are pushing to extend the latter limit to 300 miles. Being a signatory party would better enable the U.S. to make Army Gen. Martin E. Dempsey, chairman of the Joint Chiefs such claims and would bolster our capacity to defend of Staff, endorses U.S. ratification of the treaty as Secretary our economic interests, say those who favor ratificaof State Hillary Rodham Clinton looks on. tion. Merchant Mariners, MSC Receive Accolades On Defense News Site A respected defense industry news outlet recently released a glowing article that details the contributions made by merchant mariners and the Military Sealift Command (MSC). AOL Defense, an online defense magazine, began publishing a series on the U.S. government’s strategy in Asia, and specifically how sea power is going to be a cornerstone of that policy. The first article in the series, titled “Military Sealift Command: A Flexible Key to The Asia Strategy”, pays special attention to the vital role that merchant mariners play in supporting the foreign policy goals of the country. “The Military Sealift Command is not the most visible element of the Navy-Marine Corps team, unless you are at sea and need them,” said the article’s author, Robbin Lair, an AOL Defense Board of Contributors member and defense consultant. “Whether that support comes from underway replenishment, from ships at sea or air assets, the more than 100 MSC ships are the lifeblood of our fleet.” The article goes on to explain the logistical and strategic advantages that MSC utilizes in the Asian waters, including the speed and costeffective nature of the work of civilian mariners. “There are a number of notable aspects of MSC as the U.S. builds its fleet out into the future for the long distances of the Pacific,” said Lair. “First, the crews of the MSC are civilians. Indeed, they are among the hardest working civilians in the U.S. government or in the private sector, for that matter. They are at sea an average of nine months of each year. The personnel costs of these civilian mariners are substantially less than if they wore uniforms. Second, the command has a very flexible contracting system, which allows it to achieve cost effective results and breathtaking acquisition outcomes in short periods of time.” The article concludes with an assertion that merchant mariners have known for a long time: The MSC and its civilian crews are an integral and vital part of the U.S. military’s forward deployment. Maersk Seafarers Complete Safety Session In late May, SIU-contracted Maersk Line, Limited (MLL) resumed its beneficial series of safety leadership meetings at the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md. Twenty-six SIU members employed by MLL and several of the company’s shore-side workers completed a safety conference at the Piney Point, Md., school May 22-23. As previously reported, the meetings are part of a program designed to maintain and improve workplace safety. Attendees, most of whom are pictured here, included SIU members Gerald “Mike” Alford, James Bates, Seller Brooks, Glenn Davis, Bebiana Eason, Russell English, Ralph Garner, Tesfaye Gebregziabher, Joseph Grandinetti, James Gregory, Carl Herrmann, Michael Hilton, Elizabeth Ibanez, Randolph Jemmott, Melvin Kennedy, Karl Mayhew, Eileen Mendiola, Andrew Peprah, Terrence Sawyer, Damar Shaw, Jerry Stillman, Brett Sunderland, Ira Thomas, Mario Torrey, James Walker and Don Williams, and shore-side employees Dennis Houghton, Wayne Solomon, Robert Dziegielewski, Al Veek, Rick Kaser and Woody Garber. July 2012 11765_July_2012.indd 9 Seafarers LOG 9 6/21/2012 9:03:23 PM �Pictured in the photo at left (from left to right) are Hawaii Port Maritime Council President Randy Swindell, U.S. Rep. Colleen Hanabusa (D-Hawaii), Luke Kaili of MEBA and SIU Port Agent Hazel Galbiso. In the photo above are Chief Cook Henry Wright, an MM&P member, Bosun Ernesto Lomboy, Congresswoman Hirono, AB Antonio Miana and QMED Getolio Medallo. Honolulu-Area SIU Members Back Pro-Maritime Candidates Dozens of Seafarers in Honolulu are turning out for weekly demonstrations of support for pro-maritime political candidates. The photos on this page were taken in and around the union hall during two different “sign-waving” gatherings, in early and mid-April. Seafarers showed their backing of U.S. Rep. Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), who is running for the United States Senate; U.S. Rep. Colleen Hanabusa (D-Hawaii), seeking reelection; and former Honolulu Mayor Mufi Hannemann, Democratic candidate for the state’s Second Congressional District. Recertified Steward James Brockington (left in photo above) poses with Mayoral Candidate Kirk Caldwell (center) and Port Agent Hazel Galbiso. In photo at left, Congressional Candidate Mufi Hannemann (center, shaking hands) greets Seafarers at the hall. Demonstrating their support for U.S. Representative Colleen Hanabusta (D-Hawaii) in her reelection effort (photo below) are QMED Butch Lumansoc (left), OMU Cresente Gumanas, and MFOW Port Agent Bonny Coloma. SA Nicanor Sereno (left in photo above) took to the streets with Chief Cook Robert Borroin to support U.S. Representative Mazie Hirono. Following suit in the photo at right were AB Antolin Avorque (left), and Wiper Arturo Reyes. Seafarers and other supporters (photo above) pose with Congresswoman Hirono at the hall. In the photo at right, OS Michael Fincannon (left) shakes hands with the congresswoman as SA Melchor Ganir (second from left) and others look on. 10 Seafarers LOG 11765_July_2012.indd 10 July 2012 6/21/2012 9:03:30 PM �Shovel components (photo above) are lifted aboard the SIU-crewed ship in Milwaukee. (Photo by Betty Nowak). In the photo at right, the Maersk Illinois sails from Detroit on its way down the St. Lawrence Seaway. (Photo by Chuck Wagner) Maersk Illinois Makes Historic Port Call Cargo ships are a common sight at the Port of Milwaukee, but the arrival of the SIU-crewed Maersk Illinois on May 31 stood out among the port’s typical marine traffic. The Maersk Illinois, a multipurpose vessel with heavy-lift cranes, became the first American ship to load cargo in Milwaukee for an overseas destination in more than 30 years. As an oceangoing vessel, the Maersk Illinois’ navigation of the St. Lawrence Seaway demonstrated its versatility and flexibility, according to the ship operator. “The loading in Milwaukee simplified the logistics of an otherwise complicated move, and it has served to demonstrate the value of our service to U.S. exporters,” noted Dave Harriss, director of ship management and chartering at SIU-contracted Maersk Line, Limited (MLL). The shipment of two P&H rope shovels, financed by the U.S. Export-Import Bank, required the U.S.-flag vessel to carry nearly 8,000 cubic meters of machinery bound for a Siberian mining project. According to the port’s spokesman, Jeff Fleming, the Maersk Illinois is the first U.S.-flag vessel since 1981 to arrive in Milwaukee by way of the St. Lawrence Seaway, marking an achievement of historic significance. SIU members sailing aboard the ship during the notable voyage included Bosun Leslie Jacobs, AB Alvin Clark, AB Peter Westropp, OS Angela Corbitt, OS Ronnie Hamilton, QMED Stanley Jackson, QMED Mining shovels like this one were transported aboard the Maersk Illinois. (Photo by Mark Dietz) Terrance Maxwell, QMED James Demouy, GVA Gary Boyd, GUDE Mahare Kidane, GUDE William Drummond, Steward/Baker Theodore Quammie and ACU Gregory Brown. MLL noted that the Maersk Illinois’ voyage to Milwaukee attracted the attention of U.S. Secretary of Transportation Ray LaHood, who pointed out the benefits of U.S. Export-Import Bank financing in a blog post by Ocean Shipholdings Honors Seafarers Two SIU members working for the Seafarers-contracted company Ocean Shipholdings, Inc. (OSI) were recently given awards for their professionalism and skills. This year’s Peter Hulsebosch Shipmate of the Year award was given to AB Iqbal Kosar and Steward/Baker Caezar Mercado. Kosar, who recently sailed aboard the USNS Soderman, was noted in the award announcement for being a “kindhearted shipmate with the patience and professionalism to perform his job with excellent results.” Kosar’s award this year can be added to his pile of accolades for a job well done; he was honored with the Shipmate of the Year award last year as well. Mercado recently sailed aboard the USNS Red Cloud and was credited for maintaining a positive, cheerful, and Celebrating the awards are (from left) SIU Port Agent Mike Russo, Steward/Baker Caezar Mercado, Ocean Shipholdings VP of Operations Robert Sheen, AB Iqbal Kosar and SIU Asst. VP Jim McGee. Mercado and Kosar are this year’s main honorees. July 2012 11765_July_2012_X.indd 11 professional attitude all year. Mercado was acclaimed for keeping the galley operating at a high standard throughout the year and keeping the crew well-fed with nutritious meals. The Peter Hulsebosch Shipmate of the Year award is presented each year to OSI employees who “embody good seamanship, professionalism, cooperation and teamwork,” according to a message from the company announcing the award winners. The award was created in memory of Chief Mate Peter Hulsebosch who began his career with the SIU as an AB and eventually worked his way through the ranks to chief mate. Hulsebosch passed away in 2008, but served throughout his life as an exemplary worker and union member, according to those who knew him. The award was established in his honor to recognize others who possessed these and other positive characteristics. In addition to Mercado and Kosar who were the outright winners, several other SIU members were given honorable mentions. Those Seafarers are AB Beltran Cahapay, QMED John Fichter, Chief Electrician Lowell Lemm, QE Tyler Womack and Electrician Kashmir Dhillon. highlighting the Milwaukee port call. Ship photographers and aficionados have followed the vessel’s historic trek, posting various images of Maersk Illinois online, the company also pointed out. The mining shovels aboard the Maersk Illinois are part of an ongoing relationship between Milwaukee-based P&H and Joy Global with the Russian Federation’s coal industry. A third shovel is slated for transport from Milwaukee in September, to be carried by the same vessel or its twin, the SIU-crewed Maersk Texas. The Maersk Illinois and Maersk Texas are the vessels making up Maersk-Rickmers U.S. Flag Project Carrier, or Maersk-Rickmers for short. Maersk-Rickmers is a partnership between MLL and Rickmers-Linie (America), Inc., and it “combines the capabilities of both companies to form a reliable global carrier for large and heavy cargo.” The Maersk Illinois reflagged under the Stars and Stripes in December, completing two voyages to West Africa before its most recent journey. Subsequently, the ship is slated to carry commercial cargo to the Middle East. MLL reported that the Illinois left Milwaukee on June 5; the voyage to Russia’s west coast was expected to take about two weeks. Upon the ship’s arrival, the shovels were to be loaded onto rail cars to complete their journey to the Kuzbass coal mine in western Siberia. Attention Seafarers: Another New Ship! SPAD Works For You! Contribute to the Seafarers Political Activity Donation SPAD Seafarers LOG 11 6/22/2012 9:32:14 AM �AB Robert Buzard OS Rich Swirtz, Bosun Munassar Ahmed, QMED/Electrician Chris Eason Third Mate Ed McDonnell, AB Arthur Quinney SIU-Crewed USNS Stockham Helps Maintain Strength of Military Prepositioning Program For SIU crew members working aboard prepositioning ships like the USNS GYSGT Fred W. Stockham, being part of America’s fourth arm of defense is all in a day’s work. Operated by Maersk Line, Limited, the Stockham is a key asset in the U.S. Military Sealift Command’s (MSC) prepositioning program. The agency describes that program as “an essential element in the U.S. military’s readiness strategy. Afloat prepositioning strategically places military equipment and supplies aboard ships located in key ocean areas to ensure rapid availability during a major theater war, a humanitarian operation or other contingency.” SIU-crewed prepositioning ships including the Stockham support not only the Navy and Marine Corps but also the Army, Air Force and Defense Logistics agency. MSC notes that the 30 vessels in the program “provide quick and efficient movement of military gear between operating areas without reliance on other nations’ transportation networks. These ships give U.S. regional combatant commanders the assurance that they will have what they need to quickly respond in a crisis – anywhere, anytime.” The Stockham is 906 feet long and has a beam of nearly 106 feet. It can sail at up to 24 knots. Third Mate Ed McDonnell, who submitted the photos accompanying this story, said the ship recently had been prepositioned in Diego Garcia when it received instructions to sail “down and around South Africa and up to Jacksonville, Fla., to download USMC equipment. Following that, the ship proceeded north to the shipyard in Philadelphia for a regular shipyard period.” 11765_July_2012_2X.indd 12-13 SA Cliff Simril OS Mutea Alnuzely Whether delivering cargo to our troops or bringing it home, Seafarers have a long and proud tradition of serving as part of the nation’s fourth arm of defense. Bosun Munassar Ahmed, Third Mate Ted Dodson, OS Rich Swirtz Cargo operations continue while the vessel is docked in Jacksonville. American military leaders consistently say that utilizing U.S.-crewed, U.S.-flag ships to carry materiel for our troops – like this assortment of cargo pictured in Jacksonville, Fla. – is both reliable and cost-effective. 12 Seafarers LOG The vessel’s roll-on/roll-off capabilities help make it a valuable part of MSC’s prepositioning program. Shipboard cranes enhance the Stockham’s versatility. July 2012 July 2012 The SIU-crewed USNS Stockham is operated by Maersk Line, Limited. Seafarers LOG 13 6/22/2012 6:55:22 PM �14 Seafarers LOG 11765_July_2012.indd 14 July 2012 6/21/2012 9:03:52 PM �August & September Membership Meetings Dispatchers’ Report for Deep Sea May 16, 2012 - June 15, 2012 Port Total Registered All Groups A B C Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS Deck Department 10 10 1 7 7 1 5 6 12 2 2 1 0 1 0 1 1 3 3 1 7 4 1 5 6 1 3 6 9 1 12 7 1 11 12 0 17 18 18 1 3 5 2 1 3 2 1 3 7 0 9 3 1 4 5 2 1 16 5 3 43 20 4 26 9 0 17 89 29 3 37 25 3 26 20 2 17 65 41 2 4 5 2 2 5 2 1 4 3 1 16 5 1 5 1 0 1 22 8 3 13 3 1 9 2 1 6 25 8 5 42 13 6 39 17 0 20 81 29 8 21 13 8 11 17 1 6 30 43 10 18 8 3 12 9 1 6 36 11 3 4 5 1 2 3 1 2 11 7 0 1 2 0 1 0 0 0 2 4 0 15 2 2 5 2 1 0 17 10 4 35 13 5 21 7 3 11 66 28 6 4 0 2 2 0 1 1 5 3 2 38 12 3 26 21 1 27 55 42 11 334 156 47 216 146 21 143 560 320 66 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS Engine Department 4 2 3 2 2 1 1 3 2 3 0 0 0 0 2 0 0 0 0 0 3 2 1 0 4 1 2 9 6 1 12 5 1 7 3 0 7 12 7 1 2 0 0 2 0 0 0 2 0 0 9 4 1 5 1 1 3 11 9 3 20 11 4 16 5 1 10 36 24 3 24 19 3 18 12 1 17 38 31 3 6 3 0 3 2 0 1 4 0 0 6 2 1 5 2 0 1 15 4 1 7 2 2 3 1 0 2 11 3 3 18 15 1 12 10 0 10 37 18 2 6 9 2 4 6 0 2 38 16 4 10 6 0 4 5 0 4 19 12 0 9 3 0 6 0 0 1 10 4 0 3 3 0 2 0 0 0 4 4 1 4 2 0 5 6 0 3 4 8 1 24 15 2 11 12 1 6 27 17 1 0 4 1 1 1 0 0 2 3 1 10 14 3 6 6 2 8 17 30 6 177 121 25 112 80 8 78 299 198 34 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS Steward Department 2 4 4 3 2 5 3 4 4 1 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 2 1 0 0 0 0 0 4 2 1 9 4 0 7 4 0 4 16 5 0 2 1 1 0 1 0 0 4 2 1 10 3 0 14 1 0 4 16 5 0 17 2 0 15 4 0 5 23 10 0 17 5 1 12 4 0 10 26 3 1 1 2 0 0 3 0 0 1 2 0 5 0 0 1 2 0 0 12 2 1 4 2 0 3 1 1 2 10 4 1 22 5 1 20 5 1 15 36 7 0 9 14 0 10 8 1 9 15 22 0 15 4 0 14 2 1 9 29 7 2 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 0 0 1 1 0 0 1 0 0 3 2 0 4 3 0 4 1 0 3 5 2 0 25 3 0 12 4 0 10 34 6 0 1 1 0 2 0 0 1 1 2 1 32 2 2 25 4 1 13 47 4 2 180 58 9 142 47 10 88 288 92 11 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS Entry Department 0 14 13 2 7 10 4 3 18 23 0 2 1 0 1 0 1 0 3 1 0 3 4 0 1 0 0 0 7 5 0 7 1 0 4 0 1 2 13 4 0 3 0 0 1 0 0 0 5 0 5 8 3 2 5 0 0 3 12 8 5 11 2 0 9 0 1 6 20 5 2 11 8 2 6 0 1 3 24 26 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 1 3 0 0 2 0 1 2 4 3 0 2 5 0 1 0 0 3 3 7 3 25 10 2 14 6 1 11 53 25 0 16 22 0 11 2 0 0 32 46 3 12 3 1 7 2 2 3 20 9 0 3 3 0 1 1 0 1 3 5 0 11 20 0 6 15 1 0 7 11 1 3 1 0 0 0 0 3 4 3 9 7 4 1 7 1 2 9 26 9 0 1 0 0 2 0 0 0 2 0 3 15 7 0 10 2 3 7 50 20 32 157 107 10 95 39 18 56 306 212 GRAND TOTALS: 723 492 188 480 368 78 327 1,203 916 323 Piney Point........Monday: August 6, *Tuesday, September 4 Algonac...............................Friday: August 10, September 7 Baltimore.........................Thursday: August 9, September 6 Guam............................Thursday: August 23, September 20 Honolulu...........................Friday: August 17, September 14 Houston..........................Monday: August 13, September 10 Jacksonville......................Thursday: August 9, September 6 Joliet.............................Thursday: August 16, September 13 Mobile......................Wednesday: August 15, September 12 New Orleans.....................Tuesday: August 14 , September 11 New York..........................Tuesday: August 7, September 4 Norfolk.............................Thursday: August 9, September 6 Oakland........................Thursday: August 16, September 13 Philadelphia..................Wednesday: August 8, September 5 Port Everglades............Thursday: August 16, September 13 San Juan...........................Thursday: August 9, September 6 St. Louis............................Friday: August 17, September 14 Tacoma.............................Friday: August 24, September 21 Wilmington.......................Monday: August 20, September 17 * Piney Point change created by Labor Day holiday Each port’s meeting starts at 10:30 a.m. Absentee Ballot Procedures Elections for the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU are scheduled for later this year. As in past SIU election years, a comprehensive guide will be published in the Seafarers LOG prior to the balloting. In the case of members eligible to vote who believe they will be at sea during the Nov. 1 through Dec. 31, 2012 voting period or who otherwise think they will need absentee ballots, absentee ballots will be available. The SIU constitution ensures that members who are eligible to vote and who find themselves in this situation may vote. Procedures are established in the SIU constitution to safeguard the secret ballot election, including the absentee ballot process. Here is the procedure to follow when requesting an absentee ballot: 1. Make the request in writing to the SIU office of the secretary-treasurer, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. 2. Include in the request the correct address where the absentee ballot should be mailed. 3. Send the request for an absentee ballot by registered or certified mail. 4. The registered or certified mail envelope must be postmarked no later than midnight, Nov. 15, 2012 and must be received at 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746 no later than Nov. 25, 2012. 5. The secretary-treasurer, after confirming eligibility, will send by registered mail, return receipt requested, to the address designated in the request, a ballot, together with an envelope marked “Ballot” and a mailing envelope no later than Nov. 30, 2012. 6. Upon receiving the ballot and envelope, vote by marking the ballot. After voting the ballot, place the ballot in the envelope marked “Ballot.” Do not write on the “Ballot” envelope. 7. Place the envelope marked “Ballot” in the mailing envelope which is imprinted with the mailing address of the bank depository where all ballots are sent. 8. Sign the mailing envelope on the first line of the upper lefthand corner. Print name and book number on the second line. The mailing envelope is selfaddressed and stamped. 9. The mailing envelope must be postmarked no later than midnight, Dec. 31, 2012 and received by the bank depository no later than Jan. 5, 2013. ATTENTION SEAFARERS Help The Seafarers Polical Activity Donation (SPAD) Help You... Contribute Often! July 2012 11765_July_2012_X.indd 15 Total Shipped All Groups Trip A B C Reliefs Registered on Beach All Groups A B C Seafarers LOG 15 6/22/2012 9:32:15 AM �Inquiring Seafarer Seafarers International Union Directory Michael Sacco, President Augustin Tellez, Executive Vice President David Heindel, Secretary-Treasurer George Tricker, Vice President Contracts Tom Orzechowski, Vice President Lakes and Inland Waters Dean Corgey, Vice President Gulf Coast Nicholas J. Marrone, Vice President West Coast Joseph T. Soresi, Vice President Atlantic Coast Kermett Mangram, Vice President Government Services HEADQUARTERS 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746 (301) 899-0675 ALGONAC 520 St. Clair River Dr., Algonac, MI 48001 (810) 794-4988 ANCHORAGE 721 Sesame St., #1C, Anchorage, AK 99503 (907) 561-4988 BALTIMORE 2315 Essex St., Baltimore, MD 21224 (410) 327-4900 GUAM P.O. Box 3328, Hagatna, Guam 96932 Cliffline Office Ctr. Bldg., Suite 103B 422 West O’Brien Dr., Hagatna, Guam 96910 (671) 477-1350 HONOLULU 606 Kalihi St., Honolulu, HI 96819 (808) 845-5222 HOUSTON 1221 Pierce St., Houston, TX 77002 (713) 659-5152 JACKSONVILLE 5100 Belfort Rd., Jacksonville, FL 32256 (904) 281-2622 JOLIET 10 East Clinton St., Joliet, IL 60432 (815) 723-8002 MOBILE 1640 Dauphin Island Pkwy, Mobile, AL 36605 (251) 478-0916 NEW ORLEANS 3911 Lapalco Blvd., Harvey, LA 70058 (504) 328-7545 Editor’s note: Responses to this month’s question were provided by upgraders at the unionaffiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime and Education in Piney Point, Md., who were attending the steward recertification course. Question: What are some of the most effective measures you have seen implemented over the years to improve shipboard safety? James Brockington Recertified Steward The shipping companies have become more proactive in stressing safety. One company has a policy that allows anyone who sees a job being done in an unsafe manner to stop the job until the safety issue has been resolved. Another has implemented a cash reward and employee recognition program for reporting unsafe conditions. This same company also requires that the ship submit five near-miss incidents monthly. The culture of safety is very strong among us mariners. We all want to come back home in the same condition we left. Pedro Castillo Recertified Steward Education has been the most effective measure that I’ve seen over the years to enhance safety. It is advocated in all union meetings as well as aboard ship. As mariners, our expertise on safety is a direct result of education. Gene Von Flotow Recertified Steward Some companies mandate daily safety meetings. In the steward department, we have informal morning exchanges wherein we remind one another to employ good safety practices in all of our duties. One example is to always make sure that meat slicers are kept clean. Several companies out there are providing PPE equipment to help ensure that our work is done more safely. Donna Rye Recertified Steward Increased safety drills and more meetings aboard ship are some of the things that I have seen take place to enhance safety. I’ve also seen the increased implementation of ISO-ISM standards and practices. All of these have had very positive impacts. Just Self Recertified Steward Some of the most effective safety measures that I have seen implemented include safety observations, near-miss reporting, [specialized] training and safe foodhandling practices. In addition, I’ve seen the benefits of job hazard analysis partnerships. When this happens, on-site supervisors and crew members jointly assess job risks in order to eliminate potential accidents, injuries and other harmful factors from the work environment. The staff and crews of the Alaska Tanker Company, as well as (SIU Asst. VP) Archie Ware from the Port of Jacksonville do a great job constantly stressing safety awareness and excellence in the workplace. Juan Vallejo Hernandez Recertified Steward Education is the most critical measure in maintaining a safe work environment aboard ship. An educated mariner is a safe mariner. The president of our union as well as the staff and instructors at the Paul Hall Center are always advocating this to our membership. This is the best school in our industry for preparing seamen to do their jobs safely. Edvaldo Viana Recertified Steward I’ve been coming to upgrade at the Paul Hall Center constantly since I joined the SIU. On each occasion, I have noticed various improvements that have been implemented to enhance safety and the membership’s understanding of its importance and necessity. This is visible all around the school and especially at the Joseph Sacco Fire Fighting and Safety School. Both do a great job preparing the membership to work safely aboard all union-contracted vessels. Pic-From-The-Past NEW YORK 635 Fourth Ave., Brooklyn, NY 11232 (718) 499-6600 Government Services Division: (718) 499-6600 NORFOLK 115 Third St., Norfolk, VA 23510 (757) 622-1892 OAKLAND 1121 7th St., Oakland, CA 94607 (510) 444-2360 PHILADELPHIA 2604 S. 4 St., Philadelphia, PA 19148 (215) 336-3818 PINEY POINT P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674 (301) 994-0010 PORT EVERGLADES 1221 S. Andrews Ave., Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33316 (954) 522-7984 SANTURCE 1057 Fernandez Juncos Ave., Stop 16 Santurce, PR 00907 (787) 721-4033 ST. LOUIS/ALTON 4581 Gravois Ave., St. Louis, MO 63116 (314) 752-6500 TACOMA 3411 South Union Ave., Tacoma, WA 98409 (253) 272-7774 WILMINGTON 510 N. Broad Ave., Wilmington, CA 90744 (310) 549-4000 Members of the SIU-affiliated United Industrial Workers have been employed for decades aboard the floating hotel Queen Mary in Long Beach, Calif. Standing left to right in this 1979 photo (taken in the Lady Hamilton Restaurant aboard the famed former ocean liner) are union members Chris Stratton, Carol Leydon and Carol Tomich (all waitresses) and Harriet Tomich (hostess). If anyone has a vintage union-related photograph he or she would like to share with other Seafarers LOG readers, please send it to the Seafarers LOG, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. Photographs will be returned, if so requested. High-resolution digital images may be sent to webmaster@seafarers.org 16 Seafarers LOG 11765_July_2012.indd 16 July 2012 6/21/2012 9:04:01 PM �Welcome Ashore Each month, the Seafarers LOG pays tribute to the SIU members who have devoted their working lives to sailing aboard U.S.-flag vessels on the deep seas, inland waterways or Great Lakes. Listed below are brief biographical sketches of those members who recently retired from the union. The brothers and sisters of the SIU thank those members for a job well done and wish them happiness and good health in the days ahead. DEEP SEA ALEJANDRO ALDAIZ Brother Alejandro Aldaiz, 65, became an SIU member in 1974 while in Houston. He sailed in both the inland and deep sea divisions. Brother Aldaiz originally worked with Dixie Carriers. He was born in Corpus Christi, Texas. Brother Aldaiz was a member of the deck department. He last shipped on the Liberty Pride. Brother Aldaiz calls San Antonio home. JOHN BURGER Brother John Burger, 65, joined the SIU in 1988. He initially sailed aboard the Dewayne T. Williams. Brother Burger shipped in the deck department. His final trip was on the Nedlloyd Holland. Brother Burger lives in Hilham, Tenn. LARRY CLAGHORN Brother Larry Claghorn, 69, donned the SIU colors in 1986. The deck department member’s first ship was operated by Steuart Transportation Company. In 2005, Brother Claghorn took advantage of educational opportunities at the SIU-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. He most recently worked aboard the Sumner. Brother Claghorn resides in Ingleside, Texas. PAUL DORNES Brother Paul Dornes, 60, signed on with the Seafarers in 1969. He originally sailed aboard the Windjammer Janeen. Brother Dornes worked in the deck department. He attended classes often at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. Prior to his retirement, Brother Dornes sailed on the El Yunque. He is a resident of Jacksonville, Fla. KONSTANTY DUCZYMINSKI Brother Konstanty Duczyminski, 71, began sailing with the union in 1998. His first trip was on the Steven L Bennett. Brother Duczyminski worked in the July 2012 11765_July_2012.indd 17 deck department. He upgraded his skills at the Piney Point school. Brother Duczyminski’s most recent voyage was aboard the Maersk Utah. He makes his home in Tigard, Ore. ROBERT HUDAS Brother Robert Hudas, 66, started his SIU career in 1968. He initially worked in the Great Lakes division with American Steamship Company. Brother Hudas was born in Michigan. He shipped in the deck and engine departments. Brother Hudas’ last trip was on the Sgt. William R. Button. He settled in Eastpointe, Mich. KENNY JOHNSON Brother Kenny Johnson, 60, became an SIU member in 1969. He sailed in the deck department. Brother Johnson enhanced his seafaring abilities in 2001 at the union-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. His final ship was the Terrapin Island. Brother Johnson resides in Edgewater, Fla. ALFREDO SILVA Brother Alfredo Silva, 66, donned the SIU colors in 1998 while in Baltimore. His first vessel was the Global Mariner; his most recent, the Sunshine State. Brother Silva was a member of the engine department. He upgraded often at the Piney Point school. Brother Silva calls Hialeah Gardens, Fla., home. TERRY TVEIT Brother Terry Tveit, 65, joined the Seafarers in 1965. He initially sailed with Alcoa Steamship Company. Brother Tveit worked in the deck department. He most recently shipped aboard the Great Land. Brother Tveit lives in Shoreline, Wash. INLAND ANDRES BRITO Brother Andres Brito, 70, signed on with the union in 1980. He sailed mostly in the inland division but made his last few trips aboard deep sea vessels. Brother Brito first sailed aboard vessels operated by Crowley Towing & Transportation of Jacksonville, Fla. The steward department member last sailed on the USNS Denebola. He makes his home in Jacksonville. FARRELL FRAZEE Brother Farrell Frazee, 59, began his SIU career in 1973. His first ship was the Sabine. Brother Frazee worked in the engine department. His final trip was aboard a Seabulk Tanker Inc. vessel. Brother Frazee is a resident of Beaumont, Texas. ROBERT JOINER Brother Robert Joiner, 55, started sailing with the SIU in 1979. He initially shipped with Crowley Towing & Transportation of Jacksonville. Brother Joiner was a member of the engine department. He most recently sailed on the Vision. Brother Joiner resides in Ethel, Miss. CRAIG MELWING Brother Craig Melwing, 62, was born in New York. He joined the union in 1986 while in the port of Wilmington, Calif. Brother Melwing originally sailed in the deep sea division. His first ship was the USNS Algol. Brother Melwing upgraded often at the Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md. Prior to his retirement, he worked with Crowley Towing & Transportation of Wilmington. Brother Melwing settled in Harbor City, Calif. WILLIAM ROSE ROBERT SAID Brother William Rose, 57, became a Seafarer in 1980. His first trip was aboard the Oceanic Independence. Brother Rose attended classes on numerous occasions at the SIU-affiliated school. He sailed in both the steward and deck departments. Brother Rose last worked with Crowley Towing & Transportation of Wilmington. He calls Pahoa, Hawaii, home. Brother Robert Said, 65, was born in Yemen. He became an SIU member in 1989. Brother Said’s earliest trip was aboard the Southdown Challenger. The deck department member’s most recent ship was the Alpena. Brother Said is a resident of Coldwater, Mich. WILLIAM TRAVIS Brother William Travis, 55, donned the SIU colors in 1975. His earliest trip to sea was on the Sabine. Brother Travis was a deck department member. His most recent vessel was operated by Crowley Towing & Transportation of Jacksonville. Brother Travis lives in Nederland, Texas. GREAT LAKES DANIEL NATTO Brother Daniel Natto, 63, signed on with the union in 1988. He initially sailed with Dunbar & Sullivan. In 1997, Brother Natto took advantage of educational opportunities at the Piney Point school. He last shipped with Great Lakes Towing Company. Brother Natto makes his home in Cleveland, Ohio. NATIONAL MARITIME UNION JAMES CALHOUN Webster, Texas. Brother James Calhoun, 64, began his career with the NMU in 1974. The Alabamaborn mariner last shipped on the Chilbar. Brother Calhoun resides in ARTHUR TAYLOR Brother Arthur Taylor, 65, joined the NMU in 1966. He is a South Carolina native. Brother Taylor’s most recent voyage was on the Lyra. He settled in Charleston, S.C. This Month In SIU History 1941 Following the certification by the Labor Board in the Robin Line election, the union, on July 21, signed a full agreement with the company. The contract included the closed shop, hiring through the union hall and top wages and working conditions that compared favorably with the best in the industry. Opposing unions weren’t a factor in this election, as they could not get on the ballot against the SIU. 1951 On July 20, Cities Service Oil Company agreed to the same conditions and benefits as were in effect with all other SIU-contracted tanker companies. On the terms of the agreement Cities Service agreed to the same SIU industry-wide vacation plan that the union had won from its other contracted operators on June 1. First payments by the company to the vacation plan were made retroactive to June 1. In addition the new agreement provided for an increase in the stewards’ department manning scale on Cities Service tankers with one messman being added to each ship. Other working conditions were improved in order to bring the Cities Service ships in line with the remainder of the SIU fleet. 1961 The number of companies signed to new SIU contracts neared the 100 percent mark this month when Bloomfield Steamship reached agreement with the union, leaving Alcoa as the sole remaining major holdout in the dispute which last month precipitated the 18-day maritime strike. The Bloomfield agreement was considered particularly significant because Bloomfield and Alcoa were the two SIU-contracted companies which had assigned their bargaining rights to the American Merchant Marine Institute (AMMI). AMMI was the chief foe of the unions during the contract dispute. 1982 Construction on the SIU’s brand new sixstory headquarters building in Camp Springs, Md. is nearing completion. The building is located just minutes by car from downtown Washington, D.C. All of the exterior work has been completed, and interior work is moving along rapidly. The building should be ready for occupation in the next few months. The opening of this structure gives the SIU a very visible presence in Washington, where the fortune of the U.S. maritime industry is decided on a daily basis. Seafarers LOG 17 6/21/2012 9:04:04 PM �Final Departures DEEP SEA RICHARD ALMOJERA Pensioner Richard Almojera, 71, passed away Feb. 17. Brother Almojera, a New Orleans native, joined the union in 1961. He initially shipped with Seatrain Lines, Inc. Brother Almojera sailed in the engine department and was last employed by NPR Inc. He went on pension in 2001 and resided in Boynton Beach, Fla. FRANCISCO ANCHETA Pensioner Francisco Ancheta, 76, died Feb. 7. Brother Ancheta first donned the SIU colors in 1970. He originally sailed on the Pacer. The steward department member last shipped aboard the Challenger. Brother Ancheta retired in 2002 and lived in Vallejo, Calif. HOLLIS BISHOP Pensioner Hollis Bishop, 89, passed away Jan. 23. Brother Bishop became a Seafarer in 1952. He first shipped on the La Salle. Brother Bishop, who worked in the engine department, was born in Alabama. His final trip was aboard a vessel operated by Michigan Tankers Inc. Brother Bishop went on pension in 1974 and called Collierville, Tenn., home. HARRY DAVIS Pensioner Harry Davis, 91, died Jan. 29. Brother Davis was a Florida native. He began sailing with the union in 1966. Brother Davis’ first trip to sea was on the Platte. He shipped in the deck department. Brother Davis last worked aboard the Ambassador. He became a pensioner in 1986 and made his home in Jacksonville. MELVIN FERGUSON Pensioner Melvin Ferguson, 72, passed away Jan. 15. Brother Ferguson joined the union in 1968. He initially shipped aboard the Fairland. Brother Ferguson was an engine department member. His final ship was the Kodiak. Brother Ferguson retired in 2000. He was a resident of Port Orchard, Wash. VINCENT GRIMA Pensioner Vincent Grima, 91, died Feb. 13. Brother Grima was born in Malta. He started sailing with 18 Seafarers LOG 11765_July_2012.indd 18 the SIU in 1962 while in the port of New York. Brother Grima was first employed on the Steel Survey. He worked in the deck department. Brother Grima’s last voyage was aboard the Ranger. He began collecting his retirement compensation in 1985. Brother Grima settled in Brooklyn, N.Y. RICHARD JOHANSEN Brother Richard Johansen, 64, passed away Feb. 6. He first donned the SIU colors in 1998 in Fort Lauderdale, Fla. Brother Johansen’s earliest trip was on the Sumner. The deck department member most recently worked aboard the Pride of Aloha. Brother Johansen was a resident of Imperial Beach, Calif. JOHN KATSOS Pensioner John Katsos, 94, died Jan. 21. Brother Katsos was born in Massachusetts. He began his seafaring career in 1955 while in Seattle. He originally shipped with Blue Stack Towing Company and primarily sailed in the steward department. Prior to his retirement in 1985, Brother Katsos worked on the Independence. He resided in Seattle. THOMAS KENNY Pensioner Thomas Kenny, 88, passed away Jan. 23. Brother Kenny became a Seafarer in 1963. His first vessel was the Commander; his last, the American Cormorant. Brother Kenny, who sailed in the deck department, went on pension in 1988 and lived in Sea Level, N.C. Martinez worked in the engine department. His last ship was the Puerto Rico. Brother Martinez went on pension in 2002. He was a resident of Bayamon, P.R. HERMINIO PACHECO Pensioner Herminio Pacheco, 87, passed away Feb. 14. Brother Pacheco, a native of Puerto Rico, began sailing with the SIU in 1951. His first voyage was aboard the Robin Kettering. Brother Pacheco was a deck department member. His final trip was on the Sealift Mediterranean. Brother Pacheco retired in 1985 and settled in York, Pa. FULGENCIO PEREZ Pensioner Fulgencio Perez, 86, died Nov. 23. Brother Perez became an SIU member in 1965. He sailed with various companies including Calmar Steamship Corporation and NPR Inc. Brother Perez, a member of the deck department, began receiving his pension in 1990 called Baltimore home. RODNEY PONTIFLET Brother Rodney Pontiflet, 53, passed away Feb. 10. He joined the SIU ranks in 1978 in Piney Point, Md. The engine department member’s first trip to sea was aboard the Finance. Brother Pontiflet last shipped on the Trader. He made his home in Antioch, Calif. DAVID RAMIREZ Pensioner Keramidas Konstantinos, 77, died Dec. 5. Brother Konstantinos joined the SIU in 1966. His first voyage was aboard the Yaka. Brother Konstantinos was born in Greece and worked in the engine department. His final trip was on the Mt. Vernon Victory. Brother Konstantinos started receiving his retirement compensation in 1986. He continued to call Greece home. Pensioner David Ramirez, 84, died Jan. 30. Brother Ramirez began his seafaring career in 1944 while in the port of New Orleans. He originally sailed aboard the Alcoa Runner. Brother Ramirez was born in Florida and worked in the deck department. He last shipped on a Michigan Tankers Inc. vessel. Brother Ramirez became a pensioner in 1978 and lived in Alabama. LUIS MALAVE JOHN RIVERA Pensioner Luis Malave, 78, passed away Jan. 28. Brother Malave was born in Puerto Rico. He began sailing with the union in 1968. Brother Malave’s earliest trip was on the Robin Locksley. The engine department member’s final trip was aboard the Motivator. Brother Malave retired in 1998 and made his home in Guayama. Pensioner John Rivera, 91, passed away Dec. 29. Brother Rivera joined the union as a charter member in 1938. He shipped with Sinclair Oil Corporation during his early years. Brother Rivera was born in Ponce, P.R. Before retiring in 1983, he sailed in both the deck and engine departments. Brother Rivera was a resident of Orlando, Fla. KERAMIDAS KONSTANTINOS DIONISIO MARTINEZ Pensioner Dionisio Martinez, 74, died Jan. 24. Brother Martinez first donned the SIU colors in 1966. He initially shipped on the Wacosta. Brother LUTHER ROBINSON Brother Luther Robinson, 54, died Feb. 15. He was born in California. Brother Robinson started sailing with the SIU in 1997 while in San Francisco. He initially shipped aboard the USNS Silas Bent as a member of the steward department. Brother Robinson’s final ship was the R J Pfeiffer. He settled in San Francisco. YAHIA SALEH Brother Yahia Saleh, 25, passed away Jan. 23. He became a union member in 2005. Brother Saleh sailed in the engine department of vessels operated by American Steamship Company including the Adam E. Cornelius and American Mariner. He called Dearborn, Mich., home. JOHN SAUERHEBER Pensioner John Sauerheber, 92, died Jan. 31. Brother Sauerheber joined the SIU ranks in 1946. He sailed with Sprogue Steamship Company, Waterman, Delta Lines and others. Brother Sauerheber was born in Collum, Ill., and worked in the deck department. Prior to his retirement in 1979, he shipped on the Anchorage. Brother Sauerheber lived in Corydon, Ind. CLAUDIO UDAN Pensioner Claudio Udan, 68, passed away Jan. 28. Brother Udan first donned the SIU colors in 1989. He initially sailed aboard the Independence. Brother Udan, a member of the deck department, was last employed on the Horizon Trader. He made his home in Fairfield, Calif. GERALD YORE Brother Gerald Yore, 76, died Feb. 10. He was a native of Oak Park, Ill. Brother Yore originally worked with Red Circle Transport Company. The engine department member last sailed on the LNG Leo. Brother Yore resided in Michigan. INLAND DAN GISCLAIR Brother Dan Gisclair, 60, passed away Dec. 27. He joined the union in 1993. Brother Gisclair primarily sailed with American Marine Corporation. He was a resident of Raceland, La. VINCENT MOORE Brother Vincent Moore, 61, died Jan. 31. He joined the SIU ranks in 1990 while in the port of New Orleans. Brother Moore mainly sailed on vessels operated by OSG Ship Management. The deck department member lived in Brandon, Miss. GREAT LAKES WILLIE CICHOCKE Pensioner Willie Cichocke, 86, passed away Jan. 24. Brother Cichocke started his SIU career in 1960 while in Detroit. He worked in the engine department of American Steamship Company vessels. Brother Cichocke was a native of Wisconsin but called Chicago home. He became a pensioner in 1990. JOHN PERRY Pensioner John Perry, 80, died Jan. 6. Brother Perry first donned the SIU colors in 1978 in Detroit. He originally worked on the Niagara. Brother Perry’s final trip was aboard the H Lee White. A member of both the deck and engine departments, he went on pension in 1996 and made his home in South Daytona, Fla. Editor’s note: The following brothers, all former members of the National Maritime Union (NMU), have passed away. FRANCIS CLOTHIER Pensioner Francis Clothier, 86, passed away Jan. 26. Brother Clothier became a pensioner in 1987. He made his home in New Jersey. ARTHUR KANE Pensioner Arthur Kane, 89, died Feb. 27. Brother Kane, a New York native, started collecting his pension in 1987. He called St. Petersburg, Fla., home. HERMAN MCCOY Pensioner Herman McCoy, 85, died Feb. 5. Brother McCoy was born in Virginia. He went on pension in 1995. Brother McCoy settled in Hertford, N.C. JOHN McCORMICK Pensioner John McCormick, 85, died Feb. 14. Brother McCormick became an SIU member in 1970. He shipped with Interstate Oil Transportation Company for the duration of his career. Brother McCormick was a member of the deck department. He retired in 1988 and called Middletown, Del., home. BERNARD MILLINGTON Pensioner Bernard Millington, 89, passed away Jan. 27. Brother Millington was born in Maine. He began sailing with the union in 1969, initially working aboard an Allied Transportation Company vessel. Brother Millington shipped in the steward department. He was last employed with Mariner Towing. Brother Millington went on pension in 1990 and settled in Safety Harbor, Fla. Name Flynn, James Foo, Yue Rosario, Alejandro White, Kelvin Age 91 99 98 70 DOD Jan. 23 Feb. 15 Jan. 18 Feb. 4 July 2012 6/21/2012 9:04:07 PM �Digest of Shipboard Union Meetings The Seafarers LOG attempts to print as many digests of union shipboard minutes as possible. On occasion, because of space limitations, some will be omitted. Ships’ minutes first are reviewed by the union’s contract department. Those issues requiring attention or resolution are addressed by the union upon receipt of the ships’ minutes. The minutes are then forwarded to the Seafarers LOG for publication. EL MORRO (Sea Star), April 25 – Chairman Thomas W. Grosskurth, Secretary Rafael A. Cardenas, Educational Director Joseph A. Letang, Engine Delegate Kenneth L. Biddle. Chairman went over ship’s itinerary and reminded them of upcoming contract. He encouraged mariners to check expiration dates and keep documents current. Educational director urged crew to attend classes at the union-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Suggestions were made regarding rotary jobs. Steward department was thanked for good food. Aboard the Overseas Anacortes These photos from the double-hulled tanker Overseas Anacortes were submitted by Patrolman Nick Marrone II after a recent servicing in Crockett, Calif. Pictured from left to right in the group photo aboard the Overseas Shipholding Group vessel are SA Frances Bautista, GUDE Fausto Aranda, AB Irving Rochez, STOS Connie Adejado, GUDE Carlos Castillo, Steward/Baker Dana Paradise, Bosun Felsher Beasley, AB Edward Gavagan, STOS Orvin Mejia and QEP Cary Pratts. Pratts also is pictured at the far left while Adejado is shown at immediate left. HORIZON PACIFIC (Horizon Lines), April 30 – Chairman Augustus C. Udan, Secretary Robert P. Mosley, Educational Director John A. Osburn, Engine Delegate Larry P. Calixto, Deck Delegate Nicole Geideman, Steward Delegate Christopher W. Hyatt. Bosun expressed gratitude to fellow crew members for working safely. Seafarers were reminded to keep documents current and keep noise down while people are sleeping. He requested all crew members departing vessel to clean rooms and supply fresh linens for reliefs. Secretary encouraged members to donate to SPAD (Seafarers Political Activity Donation) and keep documents up-todate. Educational director reminded crew to get their time in and take advantage of upgrading at Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md. Treasurer reported $341.23 in cookout fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Bosun read president’s report from Seafarers LOG, and crew members accepted and gave a vote of thanks to President Sacco and his staff. Recommendations were made pertaining to wages and wording on vacation application. Crew members thanked steward department for great food and a clean house. Next ports: Tacoma, Wash., Oakland, Calif. and Hawaii. MAERSK UTAH (Maersk Line, Limited), April 29 – Chairman Ovidio J. Santos, Secretary Daniel L. Wehr, Educational Director Troy Ancar, Engine Delegate Tsawang L. Gyume, Steward Delegate Winston W. Coburn. Chairman read and discussed president’s report from the Seafarers LOG. Educational director suggested Seafarers take advantage of courses available at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. No beefs or disputed OT reported. It was noted satellite TV would be set up in all rooms. Request was made for a small flat screen TV and DVD player for state room. Members would July 2012 11765_July_2012_2X.indd 19 also like satellite phone in the crew lounge. Next port: Newark, N.J. OVERSEAS LUXMAR (OSG Ship Management), April 29 – Chairman Albert E. Mensah, Secretary Nancy S. Heyden, Educational Director Carlos L. Sanchez, Steward Delegate George Quinn. Bosun thanked crew for their hard work and advised them to read the constitution and contract of the ship before taking a job. He asked that everyone take care on decks as they are freshly waxed. Secretary requested mariners remove empty boxes when last item is taken in the common cleaning gear locker. No beefs or disputed OT reported. The procedure for handling a beef aboard the vessel was discussed. Dishwasher and hot water pot in crew mess need to be fixed or replaced. Next ports: Houston and Corpus Christi, Texas. PRESTIGE NEW YORK (Liberty Maritime), April 15 – Chairman Elkanah B. Ladia, Secretary Lionell P. Packnett, Educational Director Timothy J. Brock, Deck Delegate Val Curtis. Chairman talked about transportation issue with apprentice. He asked crew to be courteous when washing clothes and put other member’s clothes in dryer. Secretary reminded mariners to renew necessary seafaring documents early. No beefs; disputed OT reported in deck department. It was reported the washer and dryer were not working. Crew expressed the need for commercial dryers. They would also like refrigerators in member’s rooms. Steward thanked crew for helping keep duty mess clean. Next ports: Kingston, Jamaica; Galveston, Texas; Beaumont, Texas; and Jacksonville, Fla. SULPHUR ENTERPRISE (Waterman Steamship Corporation), April 29 – Chairman Jessie L. Mixon, Secretary Abraham M. Martinez, Educational Director Glenn G. Barnes, Deck Delegate Earnest Dillard, Engine Delegate Luis Fernandez. Bosun announced payoff in Tampa, Fla. He thanked everyone aboard for a smooth voyage. Educational director urged mariners to upgrade often at the Piney Point school. He also talked about the importance of keeping documents current. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Chairman encouraged members to read about their pension, vacation and prescription benefits. Crew asked about status of new standard contracts. LIBERTY PRIDE (Liberty Maritime), May 6 – Chairman Lionel Rivas, Secretary Sajid D. Foster, Educational Director Keith L. Carswell, Deck Delegate Lloyd Lindsey, Steward Delegate Lissette Bonilla. Chairman talked about ship’s itinerary. Educational director advised all mariners to enhance skills at the maritime training center in Piney Point, Md. and contribute to SPAD. He recommended they stay informed of issues affecting the union. Treasurer noted $500 in ship’s fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Mariners would like refrigerators in rooms. Discussion was held concerning stores and quality of provisions. Steward and bosun thanked crew and UA for their assistance with this issue. LIGHTNING (Maersk Line, Limited), May 6 – Chairman Shawn T. Evans, Secretary Ernest Polk, Educational Director Fidel C. Blanco, Deck Delegate James D. Morgan, Engine Delegate Marion M. Cruzat, Steward Delegate Wiley Owens. Bosun reported good trip and asked those departing to sign out with mate and leave keys to get discharge. Secretary thanked fellow seafarers for maintaining clean decks. Educational director suggested mariners take advantage of courses available at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. He also urged them to renew documents in a timely manner. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Request was made to have direct deposit of vacation checks. Steward department was thanked for excellent meals. Next port: Los Angeles. OVERSEAS HOUSTON (OSG Ship Management), May 8 – Chairman Calvin M. Miles, Secretary Justo R. Lacayo, Educational Director Lamar A. Parker. Chairman asked crew members leaving vessel to clean rooms for next mariner. Educational director urged mariners to upgrade often at the Piney Point school. No beefs; disputed OT reported in the deck department. Vote of thanks to the steward department for good food. Next port: New Orleans. OVERSEAS TAMPA (OSG Ship Management), May 6 – Chairman Joseph J. Caruso, Secretary George Monseur, Educational Director Scott S. Fuller, Deck Delegate Antonio Miana, Engine Delegate George Galanis. Chairman congratulated crew for doing a great job and notified them of upcoming Coast Guard inspection. Educational director reminded crew to get their time in and take advantage of upgrading at Piney Point. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew expressed gratitude to the steward department for excellent meals. Next ports: Los Angeles, Richmond, Calif. and Honolulu. Seafarers LOG 19 6/22/2012 6:30:58 PM �Aboard the Union-Crewed Maersk Missouri in Bahrain Chief Mate Mohyeldeen El-Abbasi submitted this photo of “my deck crew aboard the Maersk Missouri at ASRY Shipyard in Bahrain.” Pictured from left are AB Abdalla Gaafar, Deck Cadet Alex Cline, Unlicensed Apprentice Jose Del Valle, Bosun Oliver Balico, AB Goducel Pascua and AB Fermin Baltazar. SIU CIVMARS Support ‘Pacific Partnership’ The hospital ship USNS Mercy, shown June 6 off the coast of Manado, Indonesia, recently mobilized for Pacific Partnership 2012, a yearly humanitarian and civic assistance mission. Unlicensed mariners aboard the Military Sealift Command vessel are members of the SIU Government Services Division. This year’s Pacific Partnership is scheduled to last longer than four months and will take the vessel to Indonesia, the Philippines, Vietnam and Cambodia. In the other photo, a group of Indonesian and multinational Pacific Partnership surgeons operates on an Indonesian patient aboard the ship early last month. (Both photos courtesy U.S. Navy) Know Your Rights FINANCIAL REPORTS. The Constitution of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU makes specific provision for safeguarding the membership’s money and union finances. The constitution requires a detailed audit by certified public accountants every year, which is to be submitted to the membership by the secretary-treasurer. A yearly finance committee of rank-and-file members, elected by the membership, each year examines the finances of the union and reports fully their findings and recommendations. Members of this committee may make dissenting reports, specific recommendations and separate findings. TRUST FUNDS. All trust funds of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU are administered in accordance with the provisions of various trust fund agreements. All these agreements specify that the trustees in charge of these funds shall equally consist of union and management representatives and their alternates. All expenditures and disbursements of trust funds are made only upon approval by a majority of the trustees. All trust fund financial records are available at the headquarters of the various trust funds. SHIPPING RIGHTS. A member’s shipping rights and seniority are protected exclusively by contracts between the union and the employers. Members should get to know their shipping rights. Copies of these contracts are posted and available in all union halls. If members believe there have been violations of their shipping or seniority rights as contained in the contracts between the union and the employers, they should notify the Seafarers Appeals Board by certified mail, return receipt requested. The 20 Seafarers LOG 11765_July_2012.indd 20 proper address for this is: Augustin Tellez, Chairman Seafarers Appeals Board 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 Full copies of contracts as referred to are available to members at all times, either by writing directly to the union or to the Seafarers Appeals Board. CONTRACTS. Copies of all SIU contracts are available in all SIU halls. These contracts specify the wages and conditions under which an SIU member works and lives aboard a ship or boat. Members should know their contract rights, as well as their obligations, such as filing for overtime (OT) on the proper sheets and in the proper manner. If, at any time, a member believes that an SIU patrolman or other union official fails to protect their contractual rights properly, he or she should contact the nearest SIU port agent. EDITORIAL POLICY — THE SEAFARERS LOG. The Seafarers LOG traditionally has refrained from publishing any article serving the political purposes of any individual in the union, officer or member. It also has refrained from publishing articles deemed harmful to the union or its collective membership. This established policy has been reaffirmed by membership action at the September 1960 meetings in all constitutional ports. The responsibility for Sea­farers LOG policy is vested in an editorial board which consists of the executive board of the union. The executive board may delegate, from among its ranks, one individual to carry out this responsibility. PAYMENT OF MONIES. No monies are to be paid to anyone in any official capacity in the SIU unless an official union receipt is given for same. Under no circumstances should any member pay any money for any reason unless he is given such receipt. In the event anyone attempts to require any such payment be made without supplying a receipt, or if a member is required to make a payment and is given an official receipt, but feels that he or she should not have been required to make such payment, this should immediately be reported to union headquarters. CONSTITUTIONAL RIGHTS AND OBLIGATIONS. Copies of the SIU Constitution are available in all union halls. All members should obtain copies of this constitution so as to familiarize themselves with its contents. Any time a member feels any other member or officer is attempting to deprive him or her of any constitutional right or obligation by any methods, such as dealing with charges, trials, etc., as well as all other details, the member so affected should immediately notify headquarters. EQUAL RIGHTS. All members are guaranteed equal rights in employment and as members of the SIU. These rights are clearly set forth in the SIU Constitution and in the contracts which the union has negotiated with the employers. Conse­quently, no member may be discriminated against because of race, creed, color, sex, national or geographic origin. If any member feels that he or she is denied the equal rights to which he or she is entitled, the member should notify union headquarters. SEAFARERS POLITICAL ACTIVITY DONATION (SPAD). SPAD is a separate segregated fund. Its proceeds are used to further its objects and purposes including, but not limited to, furthering the political, social and economic interests of maritime workers, the preservation and furthering of the American merchant marine with improved employment opportunities for seamen and boatmen and the advancement of trade union concepts. In connection with such objects, SPAD supports and contributes to political candidates for elective office. All contributions are voluntary. No contribution may be solicited or received because of force, job discrimination, financial reprisal, or threat of such conduct, or as a condition of membership in the union or of employment. If a contribution is made by reason of the above improper conduct, the member should notify the Seafarers International Union or SPAD by certified mail within 30 days of the contribution for investigation and appropriate action and refund, if involuntary. A member should support SPAD to protect and further his or her economic, political and social interests, and American trade union concepts. NOTIFYING THE UNION — If at any time a member feels that any of the above rights have been violated, or that he or she has been denied the constitutional right of access to union records or information, the member should immediately notify SIU President Michael Sacco at headquarters by certified mail, return receipt requested. The address is: Michael Sacco, President Seafarers International Union 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746. July 2012 6/21/2012 9:04:15 PM �Paul Hall Center Upgrading Course Information The following is the schedule of courses at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md., for the next few months. All programs are geared to improving the job skills of Seafarers and to promoting the American maritime industry. Please note that this schedule may change to reflect the needs of the membership, the maritime industry and—in times of conflict—the nation’s security. Students attending any of these classes should check in the Saturday before their course’s start date. The courses listed here will begin promptly on the morning of the start dates. For classes ending on a Friday, departure reservations should be made for Saturday. Seafarers who have any questions regarding the upgrading courses offered at the Paul Hall Center may call the admissions office at (301) 994-0010. Title of Start Date of Course Date Completion Deck Department Able Seaman August 4 August 31 October 13 November 9 ARPA July 28 August 3 October 27 November 2 Bosun Recertification July 14 August 6 ECDIS September 29 October 5 December 8 December 14 Fast Rescue Boat July 28 August 3 GMDSS November 24 December 7 Lifeboatman/Water Survival July 21 August 3 August 18 August 31 September 15 September 28 October 13 October 26 November 11 November 23 December 8 December 21 Radar Observer July 14 July 27 October 13 October 26 June 25 June 25 Radar Renewal (One day) August 13 August 13 November 16 November 16 STOS July 14 July 27 September 15 September 28 Engine Department July 14 Adv. Refer Containers August 10 Basic Auxiliary Plant Operations (BAPO) July 21 August 17 September 15 October 12 November 10 December 7 FOWT August 18 September 14 October 13 November 9 Junior Engineer August 25 October 19 Machinist July 28 August 17 August 18 September 7 Marine Electrician October 20 December 14 UPGRADING APPLICATION Name_________________________________________________________________________ Address_______________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________ Telephone (Home)_________________________ (Cell)_________________________ Date of Birth___________________________________________________________________ Deep Sea Member o Lakes Member o Inland Waters Member o If the following information is not filled out completely, your application will not be processed. Social Security #_______________________ Book #__________________________________ Seniority_____________________________ Department_____________________________ Home Port____________________________________________________________________ E-mail_______________________________________________________________________ Endorsement(s) or License(s) now held_____________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________ Are you a graduate of the SHLSS/PHC trainee program? o Yes o No If yes, class #___________________________________________________________________ Have you attended any SHLSS/PHC upgrading courses? o Yes o No If yes, course(s) taken____________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________ With this application, COPIES of the following must be sent: One hundred and twenty-five (125) days seatime for the previous year, one day in the last six months prior to the date your class starts, USMMD (z-card) front and back or relevant pages of merchant mariner credential, front page of your union book indicating your department and seniority, qualifying seatime for the course if it is Coast Guard tested, 1995 STCW Certificate, valid SHBP Clinic Card and TWIC. July 2012 11765_July_2012.indd 21 Title of Course Start Date Date of Completion Pumpman September 8 September 21 Welding July 7 July 27 September 15 October 5 October 20 November 9 November 24 December 14 Steward Department Chief Steward July 7 August 17 October 13 November 23 Serve Safe July 7 July 13 September 29 October 5 Chief Cook These modules start every other week. The next class begins July 2. Galley Operations/Advanced Galley Operations These modules start every Monday. The next classes will begin July 2. Safety Courses Advanced Firefighting July 21 July 27 July 28 August 3 September 15 September 21 September 22 September 28 October 27 November 2 December 1 December 7 Basic Firefighting/STCW July 7 July 13 August 11 August 17 September 15 September 21 October 13 October 19 November 3 November 9 December 1 December 7 August 18 August 24 Government Vessels September 29 October 5 November 24 November 30 July 28 August 3 Medical Care Provider August 4 August 10 September 22 September 28 September 29 October 5 November 3 November 9 December 8 December 14 Tank PIC Barge December 8 December 14 Tanker Asst. Cargo DL July 14 July 27 NMC Website Provides Useful Mariner Resources The National Maritime Center (NMC), the licensing authority for the U.S. Coast Guard, offers a comprehensive website covering mariner credentialing, medical guidelines and much more. The site features a wide range of applications and forms, deck- and engine-department exam information, lists of Coast Guard-approved courses and more. Seafarers are encouraged to check out the site at:http://www.uscg.mil/nmc/ Mariners may call the NMC at 1-888-IASKNMC (1-888-427-5662). Operational hours are 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. EST, Monday through Friday. (The NMC is closed for all federal holidays.) Various email forms also are available through the NMC web site. COURSE ____________________________ START DATE _______________ DATE OF COMPLETION _______________________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________________ LAST VESSEL: ___________________________________ Rating: ____________________ Date On: _______________________________ Date Off:____________________________ SIGNATURE ____________________________________ DATE______________________ NOTE: Transportation will be paid in accordance with the scheduling letter only if you present original receipts and successfully complete the course. If you have any questions, contact your port agent before departing for Piney Point. Not all classes are reimbursable.Return completed application to: Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education Admissions Office, P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674-0075; or fax to (301) 994-2189. The Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education is a private, non-profit, equal opportunity institution and admits students, who are otherwise qualified, of any race, nationality or sex. The school complies with applicable laws with regard to admission, access or treatment of students in its programs or activities. 7/12 Seafarers LOG 21 6/21/2012 9:04:15 PM �Paul Hall Center Classes Unlicensed Apprentice Water Survival Class 759 – The following individuals (above, in alphabetical order) completed this course May 11: Cris Arsenio, Jeffrey Beasley, Julian Beasley, Ahmed Mohamed Eissa, Clifford Evans, Fadhel Hussein, Andrew Johnson, Jamie Mendoza, Ingrid Oritz, Yolanda St. Clair, Brett Tiedeman, Samuel Tilles and Aurora Williams. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Medical Care Provider – The following upgraders (above, in alphabetical order) graduated from this course May 18: Ahmed Abolela, Norman Arquillano, James Atwell, Sidnei Aparecido Barboza, Timothy Culwell, Kenric Henry, Leonard Johnson Jr., Karen Laycock, Frederick Kwaku Kotoku-Sackson and Jo-Vanio Sprauve. Mark Cates, their instructor, is standing at the far right. Fast Rescue Boat – Three individuals finished their requirements in this course May. 11. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: John Edwards, Angel Perez and Cesar Runatay. Class Instructor Tom Truitt is at the far right. Small Arms – Eight upgraders completed their requirements in this course May 25. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Alan Barnett, William Dowzicky, Rick James, Thomas Moore, Robert Oppel, David Sexton, Gregory White and Mariette Wright. Class Instructors Robbie Springer and Stan Beck are standing at the far left and far right, respectively. Basic and Advanced Fire Fighting – The following individuals (above, in alphabetical order) graduated from this course May 11: Ahmed Abolela, Nabil Ahmed, Aaron Anderson, James Atwell, Norman Arquillano, Sidnei Barboza, Timothy Culwell, Charles Jackson, Leonard Johnson Jr., Gerald McIntyre, John Richardson, Jo-Vanio Sprauve and Joseph Waller Jr. Class Instructor Mark Cates is standing at the far right. (Note: Not all are pictured.) BST – The following individuals (above, in alphabetical order) completed this course May 18: Jason Allen, Wadeea Alnasafi, Jose Clotter, Joseph Dasteel, Eugene Evans Jr., Charles Ferguson, Edward Galbis, Jamie Guerrero, David Heindel, Sean Hernandez, Christopher Hughes, Army Leake, Demetrio Marchione, Kelly Mayo, Timothy McKibbon, Mark Rivers, Cesar Runatay, Tim Russell, Ramon Sanchez, Roy Saranthus, Kenneth Shaw, Christopher Sullivan, Richard Williams, Steven Woods and Julio Zapata. Class instructor Joe Zienda is standing at the far right in the back row. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Tankship Familiarization DL – The following students finished this course May 18. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Ahmed Yahya Ali, Brian Beasley, Justin Biggerstaff, Justin Bly, Darvin Brown, Christian Bryant, Jared Cabasug, Earl Dimmick, Scott Doxey, Cody Fox, Eric Garcia, Julius Gimutao, Rachel Janssen, Eser Kaptan, Jason Meyers, Nathan Nicholson, Stephen Nowell, Lucas Osborn, Leonard Patterson Jr., Nikita Ryshkov, Ervin Sadler II, Joshua Schwarz and Frederick Wright. 22 Seafarers LOG 11765_July_2012.indd 22 Welding – Five upgraders finished their requirements in this course May 18. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Donnell Criswell, Brian Jackson, James Orlanda, Jonathan Pampilon and Daniel Saunders. Their instructor, Buzzy Andrews, is standing at the far left in the back row. Radar Observer – Seven upgraders completed this course June 1. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Ahmed Abolela, Cleveland Foy, Eric Kjellberg, Ryan Legario, James Orlanda, Michael Presser and Mark Rivers. July 2012 6/21/2012 9:04:29 PM �Paul Hall Center Classes FOWT – Twenty three Seafarers (above) finished this course May 25: Nabil Ahmed, John Albritton, Kenneth Atkinson, Sean Branch, Ryan Brown, Corey Chandler, Michael Deren, Brandon Grace, Michael Gray, Ross Halsted, Victorino Labrilla, Antonio McAdams, Robert Noble, Roosevelt Osbourne, Michael Page, Zaza Tchitanava, Alexander Zharkoff, Major Brooks, Dhahabi Quraish, Romeo Cruda, Lucion Liles, Samuel Shuebrooks and Michael Souza. Class Instructor Tim Achorn is standing at the far left. Designated Duty Engineer- Six upgraders finished their requirements in this class May 4. Those graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Sidnei Barbosa, Grant Gutter, Hurston Harcum, Clint Haylock, John Richardson Jr. and Larry Saunders. Their instructor, Jay Henderson, is at the far left. Water Survival – The following individuals (above, in alphabetical order) completed this course May 11: Ahmed Ahmed, Marcelo Alicea, Jason Allen, Joseph Dasteel, Rufino Gonzales Jr., Jamie Guerrero, David Heindel, Sean Hernandez, Christopher Hughes, Melchor Lapac Jr., Abdul Mohsen, Rodney Passapera Barbosa, Jethro Powers, Roy Saranthus, Steve Woods and Julio Zapata. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Galley Operations – Five Seafarers recently fulfilled their requirements in this course. Those graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Efren Aguirre, Saeed Azahmadi, Robyn Majette, Ali Munsar and Tashara Newton. Chief Steward – Six steward department members recently completed the enhancement of their skills in this course. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Bebiana Eason, John Favreaux, Lisa Favreaux, Ismael Garayua, Elizabeth Ibanez and Norma West. Certified Chief Cook – Two Seafarers recently finished this course at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Eduation in Piney Point, Md. Completing their requirements (above from left) were Ismael Gonzalez and Lamond Fulton. Galley Operations – Four upgraders recently graduated from this course. Completing their requirements (above, in alphabetical order) were: Marcelo Alicea, Sorrac Dognia, Abel Hernandez and Quentin Hood. BST HAWAII – The following individuals (above, in alphabetical order) graduated from this course May 26 at the Barbers Point, Hawaii-based Seafarers training center: Cori Bryan, Joel De Ocampo, Stephanie Johnson, Dennie Ladd, Jevon Lowery, Chelsie McRae, Kenneth Norberg, Henry Otazo, Crystal Ramsey, Benjamin Rodriquez, Jeremy Ruby, Sean Santiago, Marcelo Shah, Richard Stadlander, Ida Suardana, Kathryn Sunderhauf, Michelle Swain, Candace Tran and Andy Versoza. BST Hawaii – Twelve individuals completed this course June 2 at the Seafarers Training Facility in Hawaii. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Travis Bosshardt, Robert Chambers, Geoffrey Devine, Jeremiah Floyd, Heriberto Jimenez, Brandon Larkin, David Reimer, Joseph Roma, Sandybell Salazar, Richard Teytom Sambola, Daniel Zubovic and Richard Blough. Advanced Galley Operations – Four stewards recently graduated from this course. Completing their requirements (above, in alphabetical order) were: Wilmer Alvarez, Charles Davis, Kim Kalua and Robert Wright Jr. Chief Cook – Three steward department members recently finished this course. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Eugenio Cabral Jr., Michael Ray and JonDa Tanner. Important Notice Students who have registered for classes at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, but later discover - for whatever reason - that they can’t attend, should inform the admissions department immediately so arrangements can be made to have other students take their places. July 2012 11765_July_2012.indd 23 Seafarers LOG 23 6/21/2012 9:04:46 PM �Volume 74, Number 7 July 2012 Paul Hall Center Course Dates Page 21 SIU Wilmington Port Agent Jeff Turkus stands with U.S. Rep. Janice Hahn after the annual ceremony in San Pedro, Calif. Honoring mariners at a ceremony in Washington, D.C., are (from left) Deputy Transportation Secretary John Porcari, Associate Maritime Administrator Kevin Tokarski and MarAd Director of Ship Operations Bill Cahill. Los Angeles Councilman Joseph Buscaino was one of the featured speakers at the AMMV ceremony in San Pedro. SIU Guam Port Agent John Hoskins (left) and CDR Brian Peterson, commanding officer of MSC Ship Support Unit Guam, are pictured at the union hall on Maritime Day. Mariners Honored Across Nation Seafarers Recognized at Memorial Day, Maritime Day Events Beginning on May 22 – National Maritime Day – and continuing a week later on Memorial Day, U.S. Merchant Mariners were honored during ceremonies across the country as well as in written statements from the administration, Congress and fellow trade unionists. SIU members and officials participated in various observances in California, Texas, Guam, the nation’s capital and elsewhere. (The Washington, D.C. events of May 22 were covered in detail in the May issue of the LOG.) On Memorial Day, U.S. Secretary of Transportation Ray LaHood used his “FastLane” blog to remind readers of the historic sacrifices of America’s mariners. He wrote about a ceremony one day earlier commemorating the 50th anniversary of the Vietnam War, and pointed out, “Even when they are not called to active duty, many of America’s merchant mariners serve their nation through sealift operations that support our military overseas. During the Vietnam War, 172 ships were activated from the National Defense Reserve Fleet and assigned to commercial shippers to support American military forces.” He then described the dangers faced by civilian mariners supporting our troops in Vietnam. Finally, LaHood wrote that the mariners who died during the war “served on ships that brought mail, helicopters, ammunition, food, medical supplies, and more. They carried troops and brought home many of those whose names are found on the Vietnam Memorial. “U.S. Merchant Mariners have paid the ultimate sacrifice in conflicts across our nation’s history. For their service, we say thank you.” For Maritime Day, in addition to the traditional White House proclamation saluting the service and value of seafarers, communications were issued by Senator Mark Warner (D-Va.), U.S. Rep. Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), and the AFL-CIO’s Transportation Trades Department (TTD). Warner credited merchant mariners “for their dedication to promoting commerce and protecting our freedom. The United States Merchant Marine … has served our country honorably. It has met our country’s economic and security needs whether in wartime or in peace.” Hirono directed her message specifically to Aloha State maritime workers. “More than 10,000 hardworking maritime and longshore workers literally help to keep our state going by bringing in the goods we rely upon,” she stated. “Without their commitment to transporting cargo and people, our islands would come to a standstill…. We also pay tribute to the U.S. Merchant Mariners who work to transport cargo to ports around the world.  Their service and sacrifice have helped to defend our nation by connecting service members to the supplies they need, often in treacherous and unstable situations. In addition, the efforts of our merchant mariners enable American exports to enter the global marketplace, maintaining essential domestic and international trade net- works that strengthen our national economy.” She concluded, “The maritime community reminds us of the importance of the Jones Act to ensure efficient, reliable shipping to Hawaii. Warmest mahalo to all who work on our waterways and around the world on this National Maritime Day.” The TTD, in addition to thanking maritime workers, said the industry must be maintained and strengthened. “A strong maritime industry is critical to our multi-modal transportation system and economy, and it plays a critical role in protecting national security,” the department’s statement pointed out. “But because our ships and navigation channels are not as visible as congested highways, aging bridges and deteriorating transit systems, funding for our ports and waterways is far too often pushed down the priority list. This neglect must end. “We also renew our vigorous support for a strong, privately owned U.S.-flag fleet through policies such as U.S. cargo preference laws and the Jones Act. These laws are essential if the U.S. is to keep an adequate pool of trained mariners capable of meeting sealift objectives…. “The skilled employees in the maritime industry work tirelessly to keep our country and our economy moving, often in dangerous and trying circumstances. It is especially appropriate to pause today and thank these workers who risk their lives to preserve our freedom and our economic strength around the world.” Attending the observance at the American Merchant Marine Veterans Memorial in San Pedro, Calif., are (from left) GUDE Mohammad Siddiq, ACU Larry Ballard, Bosun Gerry Gianan, QMED/Electrician Anwar Muthala, Port Agent Jeff Turkus, DEU Jason Stutes, Bosun Richard Barnhart and AB George Siegel. 11765_July_2012.indd 24 The union donated this wreath for the commemoration in San Pedro, Calif. Coast Guard Captain James Jenkins addresses the crowd in San Pedro. 6/21/2012 9:04:58 PM � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Seafarers Log Issues 2010-2019 Description An account of the resource Volumes LXXII-LXXXI of the Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Seafarers Log Digital Copies Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 2010-2019 Document A resource containing textual data. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre text. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource July 2012 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES RESCUE AT SEA HORIZON RELIANCE DOES IT AGAIN GREAT LAKES GROUP CHRISTENS TUGBOAT SEAFARERS HEALTH AND BENEFITS PLAN AWARDS $132,000 FOR 2012 COLLEGE SCHOLARSHIPS SIU GAINS JOBS ON BBC SEATTLE MUA: ‘FOC SHIPPING CAN BE DEFEATED’ GREAT LAKES GROUP CHRISTENS NEW TUG TSA ANNOUNCES OPTION FOR 3-YEAR ‘EXTENDED EXPIRATION DATE’ TWIC THIRD JHSV UNDER CONSTRUCTION NOAA COMMISSIONS NEW HIGH-TECH VESSEL MAERSK TEXAS CREW SAFE FOLLOWING PIRATE ATTACK COAST GUARD HONORS SIU-CONTRACTED COMPANIES CROWLEY MARITIME RECOGNIZED BY NOAA MARITIME UNIONS: COAST GUARD EDITORIAL ‘UNFAIR AND INACCURATE’ GLMTF NAMES OHIO REP. GIBBS GREAT LAKES LEGISLATOR OF YEAR ILO ELECTS RYDER TO EXECUTIVE POST JACKSONVILLE HOSTS REGIONAL, TRUSTEES MEETINGS MEMBERS THANK PRESIDENT SACCO, EXECUTIVE BOARD FOR EXHIBITING ‘EXTRAORDINARY LEADERSHIP’ U.S. MILITARY, GOVERNMENT LEADERS URGE PASSAGE OF LAW OF SEA TREATY MERCHANT MARINERS, MSC RECEIVE ACCOLADES ON DEFENSE NEWS SITE HONOLULU-AREA SIU MEMBERS BACK PRO-MARITIME CANDIDATES MAERSK ILLINOIS MAKES HISTORIC PORT CALL OCEAN SHIPHOLDINGS HONORS SEAFARERS SIU-CREWED USNS STOCKHAM HELPS MAINTAIN STRENGTH OF MILITARY PREPOSITIONING PROGRAM MARINERS HONORED ACROSS NATION SEAFARERS RECOGNIZED AT MEMORIAL DAY, MARITIME DAY EVENTS Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Seafarers Log Digital Copies Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 07/01/20120 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Newsprint Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context Vol. 74, No. 7 http://www.seafarerslog.org/archives/files/original/8931410ba2a5e681dcc157ac30efdd23.pdf 324ab2880a8abe25b643cd0f60b9d905 PDF Text Text Volume 74, Number 8 August 2012 Ocean Giant Hoists Stars & Stripes The Ocean Giant (above), operated by Crowley for Intermarine, is a new addition to the SIU-contracted fleet. The vessel reflagged American in late June. Page 3. Congress Voices More Support for Jones Act Page 4 U.S. Navy Honors CIVMARS All Hands Safe Aboard Rappahannock The fleet replenishment oiler USNS Rappahannock (above), crewed by members of the SIU Government Services Division, defended itself during a midJuly incident near Jebel Ali, United Arab Emirates. A shipboard security team, after repeatedly issuing warnings to an oncoming boat, fired at the smaller craft. Page 4. Bosun Billy Bushey (third from left) and the rest of the SIU Government Services Division crew aboard the submarine tender USS Frank Cable early this year received an efficiency award from the U.S. Navy. The vessel carries a hybrid crew of civilians and military personnel. “This award is the result of a team effort by the MSC crew,” Bushey said. “It validates the training, dedication and hard work of Government Services Division mariners.” Pictured from left aboard the ship are Capt. Nelson Hildreth (USN), Chief Mate Joseph Siddell, Bosun Bushey, Capt. James Ransom (USN Chief of Staff for Submarine Force Pacific Fleet), CWO John Lewis (USN) and Second Officer Baron Garvey. The bosun added that this is believed to have been the first time civilians received the “Battle Efficiency” or Battle E award. Harley Marine Crews Ratify 3-Year Pact A busy year for SIU contracts continued with the recent ratification of a threeyear pact by Harley Marine boatmen. The agreement calls for yearly wage increases and other gains. Pictured from left to right on the tug HMS Liberty in New York are tallying committee members AB/Deckhand Tom Powell, Engineer Lewis Canterbury and Lead Tankerman Kenny Shaw. Page 3. Crowley Contract Approved Page 3 11766_August.indd 1 TWIC Reminders Page 4 Union Plus Scholarship Info Page 14 7/25/2012 9:25:53 PM �President’s Report Register and Vote You know it’s election season when you can’t escape from the political ads, whether they’re on television, radio, online or in print. It’s only July as of this writing and, at least here around the nation’s capital, the ads are everywhere. Political forecasters say billions of dollars will be spent on the White House election alone. You can bet that very few if any races for the Senate or House of Representatives or state governorships will be inexpensive, either. The effects of money on elections are nothing new, but we in the labor movement got a stark reminder during the recent recall election in Wisconsin. We fought well and made it competitive at the ballot box despite being outspent by a wide margin. Analysts disagreed about whether the recall was more of a referendum on those types of elections rather than the specific office-holder, but the anti-worker money (tens of millions of Michael Sacco dollars) that flowed to the governor didn’t require painstaking study. It came from anti-union, antiworker business interests and anyone with an ounce of common sense knows it made a difference. So where does that leave us with Election Day on the horizon? For starters, even though we already know we’ll be outspent, the SIU and our allies in the American maritime industry will continue financial support of those candidates and office-holders who support the U.S. Merchant Marine. With that in mind, your continued support of SPAD, the union’s voluntary political action fund, is more vital than ever. Our old salts have heard this line before, but for those of you who are newer members, be assured that while contributing to a candidate doesn’t assure we’ll get everything we want, it normally will at least allow us to voice our side. And on the other hand, if you don’t contribute, you all but guarantee no voice at all. Fortunately, we still have another asset that cannot be measured on bank statements. Our ability to generate grassroots support for candidates and issues is something our enemies simply cannot match. And that’s why we all must be activists. That means registering to vote and then following through on Election Day. This includes the members of your family who are eligible. It means waving signs, taking part in precinct walks, crewing phone banks and helping get out the vote. Historically, the SIU has always had an excellent amount of grassroots activism from rank-and-file members. We can’t afford to let up now. Our industry is under attack from all sides, largely due to budget slashers and the economy. Election-year politics affect us, too. So stay in touch with your port agents. If you’re asked to help out, please do so. For those of you interested in doing even more, get in touch with your area labor federation or state AFL-CIO. We have information on the back page of this issue of the LOG to help you get started. Our industry’s future is at stake on November 6. Don’t sit this one out. Excellent Contracts In many places, givebacks and reductions are what pass for contract negotiations these days, but not in the SIU. On the heels of the standard contract ratifications, members have approved several more outstanding agreements, some of which are reported in this edition and others of which we’ll be reporting soon. Congratulations to our contracts department and everyone else who’s been involved in negotiations, on both sides of the table. You’ve all done a remarkable job securing agreements that benefit Seafarers and our companies. We are proving once again that collective bargaining, done firmly but respectfully, is good for workers and good for business. Volume 74, Number 8 August 2012 The SIU online: www.seafarers.org The Seafarers LOG (ISSN 1086-4636) is published monthly by the Seafarers International Union; Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU, AFLCIO; 5201 Auth Way; Camp Springs, MD 20746. Telephone (301) 899-0675. Periodicals postage paid at Southern Maryland 20790-9998. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to the Seafarers LOG, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. Communications Director, Jordan Biscardo; Managing Editor/Production, Jim Guthrie; Assistant Editor, Paddy Lehane; Photographer, Harry Gieske; Administrative Support, Misty Dobry. Copyright © 2012 Seafarers International Union, AGLIWD. All Rights Reserved. The Seafarers International Union engaged an environmentally friendly printer for the production of this newspaper. 2 Seafarers LOG 11766_August_X.indd 2 SIU-Crewed Ships Earn Top Safety Awards The SIU-crewed ships Horizon Reliance and Ocean Titan earned top honors at this year’s Chamber of Shipping of America (CSA) safety and environmental awards event, which took place June 12 in New Orleans. Overall, more than 20 Seafarerscontracted companies received awards for “outstanding feats of safety” or sustained safe operations, or both. The Ocean Titan was recognized for its December 2011 rescue of seven European mariners in the Bay of Biscay. Operated by Pacific-Gulf Marine for Intermarine, the Ocean Titan overcame extremely rough nighttime weather and other challenges in pulling off the rescue. Similarly, Horizon Lines’ ship Reliance faced severe weather conditions when saving the lives of three people, including a USCG Rear Adm. Kevin Cook (right in both photos) pres9-year-old boy, in early February near Ha- ents plaques to Horizon Lines Director of Marine Services waii. The captain and crew handled the pre- Mike Bohlman (above) and Ocean Titan vessel master Capt. dawn rescue despite 55-mph wind gusts and Christopher D. Hill (photo below at left). Both awards were presented June 12 in New Orleans. (Photos by Barry Chamwaves ranging from 20-25 feet. pagne) Meanwhile, the CSA also recognized recipients of its Jones F. Devlin Awards, given to vessels that have operated for at Sea Star Line, Seabulk Tankers, Seabulk Towing, least two years without a mariner involved in a lost- Totem Ocean Trailer Express, and USS Vessel time injury. SIU-contracted companies earning the Management. Devlin Awards included Alaska Tanker Company, CSA President Joseph Cox pointed out that the Crescent Towing, Crowley Maritime (and sev- organization has been conducting its safety awards eral of its subsidiaries), E.N. Bisso & Son, Farrell events since 1958. He credited this year’s honorees Lines, American Overseas Marine, Harley Marine, for an “extraordinary record (that) is directly attribHigman Barge Lines, Horizon Lines, Interocean utable to the professionalism of our seafarers and American Shipping, Keystone Shipping, Maersk the dedication of shore-based company personnel Line Limited, Moran Towing, Ocean Shipholdings, to safe operation.” OSG Ship Management, Patriot Contract Services, He added, “CSA’s involvement in safety is longstanding. We continue to represent the industry, domestically and internationally, on safety issues encompassing every facet of ship operations. It is, therefore, only fitting that an industry so focused on safety, publicly recognizes the skills and dedication of the women and men who are responsible for actions in keeping with the highest traditions of the sea – aid to those in peril.” The Chamber of Shipping of America represents 37 U.S.-based companies that own, operate or charter oceangoing tankers, container ships, and other merchant vessels engaged in both the domestic and international trades and other entities that maintain a commercial interest in the operation of such oceangoing vessels. Admiral Papp: Coast Guard Appreciates Professionalism of American Mariners Admiral Robert J. Papp, the commandant of the U.S. Coast Guard, recently voiced strong appreciation of the U.S. Merchant Marine in a letter to SIU President Michael Sacco. He also reiterated the agency’s eagerness to work cooperatively for the benefit of everyone involved in the maritime industry. The admiral was responding to a joint letter from the presidents of the SIU, American Maritime Officers, Marine Engineers’ Beneficial Association and International Organization of Masters, Mates & Pilots. As reported in last month’s LOG, that letter expressed great concern about an article written by a Coast Guard captain; the presidents asserted that the editorial by Eric Christensen was very misleading, and that it unfairly portrayed U.S.-flag vessels as unsafe. Papp, after mentioning that Christen recently had been transferred, wrote, “Be assured the Coast Guard appreciates the professionalism and dedication of the United States-flag commercial ship operators and the crews you represent. We are also keenly aware it is these operators and crews, not regulators and inspectors, who have the most direct and effective impact on safety, particularly when they and the organizations that represent them go beyond the minimum standards set in regulation.” He added that the agency is committed to working with the industry to help U.S. ship operators and crews comply with all international standards. Adm. Robert Papp Commandant, U.S. Coast Guard August 2012 7/26/2012 6:06:08 PM �The Ocean Giant reflagged in late June and sailed with an SIU crew. Giant Addition: Heavy-Lift Ship Joins SIU Fleet The SIU in late June welcomed new shipboard jobs as the heavy-lift ship Ocean Giant reflagged under the Stars and Stripes in Jacksonville, Fla. Operated by Crowley Maritime for Intermarine, the 545-foot-long vessel was built last year and is equipped with three cranes with a combined lifting capacity of 800 tons. “The SIU is proud to represent the unlicensed crew members sailing aboard the Ocean Giant, and we definitely are excited about this outright addition to the union-contracted fleet,” stated SIU Vice President Contracts George Tricker. “In addition to gaining new jobs, another positive aspect of this development is that ships like the Ocean Giant help maintain a pool of reliable, well-trained U.S. mariners who support our troops wherever and whenever needed.” Following its reflagging, the Ocean Giant sailed to Norfolk, Va., and then began a voyage under U.S. Military Sealift Command charter to Thule, Greenland. After that, the 19,100-dwt ship is scheduled to join Intermarine’s Americanflag commercial and project fleet, which has worldwide service, noted a company spokesman. The SIU crew for the Ocean Giant’s first voyage included Bosun Joseph Casalino, AB Aristotle Bone, AB David Crisp, AB Alexander Ward, QEE Randy Slue, QE4 Lamont Robinson, Oiler Jeffrey Nicholson, Steward/Baker Gregory Broyles and ACU Steven Holmes. Other SIU-crewed Intermarine heavylift ships include the Ocean Atlas, Ocean Titan, Ocean Charger and Ocean Crescent. The vessels are enrolled in the Voluntary Intermodal Sealift Agreement and Maritime Security Program, each of which has been described by top U.S. military leaders as vital to America’s security. Harley Marine Crews Ratify 3-Year Contract Seafarers employed by Harley Marine Services Inc. recently ratified a three-year contract featuring annual wage increases and other gains. All of the votes were in favor of the new pact, which covers two dozen SIU boatmen sailing on tugboats and barges in the New York Harbor. Negotiations began in March, with the SIU bargaining team consisting of Vice President Atlantic Coast Joseph Soresi, Patrolman Mark von Siegel and AB/ Deckhand Bill Richardson. “I think the guys will be happy with it,” said Richardson, who added that this was his first time participating on a bargaining committee. “I didn’t know what to expect, but it was a positive experience,” Richardson stated. “I’m glad I was part of it and could help my fellow shipmates out.” The contract calls for yearly wage increases and also boosts company contributions to the Seafarers Pension Plan and the separate Seafar- Harley Marine’s fleet includes the Seafarers-crewed St. Andrews. August 2012 11766_August.indd 3 ers Money Purchase Pension Plan. It establishes a “training” pay rate for attending classes at the unionaffiliated school in Piney Point, Md. Other highlights include additional holidays, annual increases in food allowances, greater consideration of seniority, and the opportunity for members to enroll in the Seafarers 401(k) Plan. “Under any circumstance, a contract like this one is something the membership can be proud of,” Soresi stated. “But particularly in light of the current economy, this is a very solid agreement that will help both the crew members and the company.” Similarly, von Siegel noted, “The end result is a good contract that was negotiated in good faith. It is fair and equitable to both parties and, most importantly, beneficial to the membership.” Harley Marine was founded in 1987. The New York-area boatmen who work for the company primarily perform bunkering operations. Bargaining team members from the union and company (pictured above) reached an agreement that benefits both sides. Members Approve Crowley Contract Seafarers sailing aboard Crowley Towing & Transportation vessels have recently agreed to a new contract that provides a wide variety of gains for SIU members. The new four-year agreement has been ratified by the membership. The contract gives workers at Crowley Towing & Transportation pay increases for each of the four years that the agreement is effective. The company also agreed to reimburse boatmen for purchasing safety equipment and uniforms for their work. In addition, the company has altered its holiday transportation policy and will now pay for up to two checked bags when they fly home. The negotiating committee also arranged for shipwreck compensation from the company and secured additional contributions to the Seafarers Pension Plan based on days worked. Additionally, the bargaining team gained wage increases for repair workmen and for barge riders. The agreement went into effect retroactive to July 1. One of the most important elements of this contract for SIU members is that nothing was given back, in spite of tough economic times and other external elements that are challenging the industry. The SIU-crewed tug HMS Liberty is pic“This is a great contract for all intured at the Brooklyn Navy Yard, with volved,” said SIU Vice President Contracts Mate Mike Parks on the upper deck and AB/Deckhand Bill Richardson on the George Tricker. “It’s important to note that lower one. not only was the negotiating committee able to not make any concessions, but we were also able to make some pretty substantial gains. This is a great contract that provides security for the future.” Tricker also noted that the smoothness of the negotiations is a testament to the solid working relationship between the union and the company. “The rank-and-file members who served on the negotiating committee fought hard for their brothers’ and sisters’ interests while, at the same time, making it clear to the company that they’re all committed to success,” said Tricker. “This is a job well done for everyone.” Assistant Vice President Archie Ware, who also served on the negotiating committee, agreed with Tricker’s assessment. “The SIU delegates and our officials did a great job in these negotiations, fighting hard each step of the way,” said Ware. “We’ve accomplished a great deal in these past few weeks and I think we’ve walked away with something we can all be proud of and happy with.” In addition to Tricker and Ware, the SIU negotiating committee consisted of Port Agent Jeff Turkus, Port Agent Mike Russo, and delegates Ted Caffy, Roger Eastwood, Kyle Sweep, Roger Stewart, Craig Perry, and Satchel Caffy. Crowley representatives included Lee Egland, Lee McGuire, Sandy Teng, Ira Douglas, Chris Peterson, and Jeremiah Stokes. Seafarers LOG 3 7/25/2012 9:26:09 PM �Congressmen Voice Support for Jones Act On June 27, the House Subcommittee on Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation conducted a hearing, chaired by Representative Frank LoBiondo (R-N.J.), to review the process used to determine the availability of Americanflag vessels during the summer 2011 drawdown of crude oil from the Strategic Petroleum Reserve (SPR) and what steps are being taken to improve that process. During the hearing, Chairman LoBiondo and Ranking Member Rick Larsen (D-Wash.), both great friends of the U.S. Merchant Marine, made strong statements in support of the Jones Act, which is one of the foundations of the American maritime industry. LoBiondo said, “The Jones Act protects our national security and promotes job growth in the U.S. maritime sector.” Speaking about waivers that were issued last year for the SPR draw-down, he continued, “I find these actions extremely disturbing, particularly because it came at a time when so many Americans were out of work.” Congressman Larsen stated, “The Jones Act exists for good reason. It sustains a vibrant and strong domestic maritime industry. It creates job opportunities for U.S. mariners. It underpins U.S. maritime defense policy.” He added, “U.S. industry has available capacity to move U.S. strategic oil reserves on U.S. flagged ships, putting U.S. mariners to work. I don’t know of anyone on this committee who agreed with these controversial waivers, and Congress has responded accordingly to uphold the integrity of the Jones Act.” Larsen was referring to language passed by Congress to prohibit the use of funds to issue future Jones Act waivers for SPR draw-downs for the balance of this fiscal year until the ad- ministration has taken adequate steps to ensure the use of U.S.-flag vessels. Also, as previously reported, the House adopted an amendment offered by Congressman Elijah Cummings (DMd.) and Congressman Jeff Landry (R-La.) that strengthens information and notice requirements for any future Jones Act waivers. Part of the Merchant Marine Act of 1920, the Jones Act mandates that cargo moving between domestic ports must be carried aboard vessels that are built, crewed, owned flagged American. The law is a major contributor to national and economic security. Extended Expiration Date TWIC Available Beginning August 30 USNS Rappahannock Fires After Boat Ignores Warnings An embarked security team aboard a fleet replenishment oiler crewed by members of the SIU Government Services Division – the USNS Rappahannock – fired upon a small motor vessel after it disregarded warnings and rapidly approached the U.S. ship near Jebel Ali, United Arab Emirates on July 16. One person aboard the smaller boat was killed and three others reportedly were wounded. No one aboard the Rappahannock, a government-owned ship, was harmed. Although the incident remained under investigation as this edition went to press, a detailed timeline released by the Navy supports assertions that the Rappahannock properly followed protocol. The small boat got as close as 90 yards from the oiler in an incident that lasted three minutes. “In accordance with Navy force protection procedures, the [security team] on the USNS Rappahannock used a series of non-lethal, preplanned responses to warn the vessel before resorting to lethal force,” the Navy reported. “The U.S. crew repeatedly attempted to warn the vessel’s operators to turn away from their deliberate approach. When those efforts failed to deter the approaching vessel, the security team on the Rappahannock fired rounds from a .50-caliber machine gun.” News accounts described the boat’s occupants as Indian fishermen. Pentagon spokesman George Little told CNN, “We certainly regret the loss of life in this incident…. There were, in fact, warning measures that were taken based on what we know now.” Lt. Greg Raelson, a spokesman for the Navy’s Fifth Fleet, stated, “Our ships have an inherent right of self-defense against potential threats. In this situation you had a small motor vessel that was deliberately approaching and did not respond to any warnings.” Within the first few days after the incident, military and civilian security experts who were contacted by reporters pointed out that the Navy’s strategies have changed since the USS Cole was attacked by terrorists in October 2000. The American destroyer was refueling in Aden Harbor, Yemen, when a small boat carrying explosives detonated, killing 17 U.S. sailors and nearly sinking the ship. That attack is “constantly on your mind,” retired Vice Adm. Pete Daly, who was in charge of a destroyer squadron when the Cole was attacked, recently told a reporter. “I would say that the Navy, as a result of the Cole, significantly reevaluated what the Navy calls the waterborne threat.” The U.S. Navy released the photo immediately above of the boat that disregarded warnings from the USNS Rappahannock, pictured at the top. Sealift, Inc. Awarded New Contract For Charter of MV Bernard Fisher SIU jobs remain secure aboard the prepositioning ship MV MAJ Bernard F. Fisher following a July 5 contract announcement by the U.S. Department of Defense. The Fisher’s current operator, SIU-contracted Sealift, Inc., has been awarded a new charter for the vessel which includes options that would extend through September 2017. 4 Seafarers LOG 11766_August.indd 4 According to the government’s announcement, the Fisher’s mission will be “to preposition ammunition and related supplies in support of the Air Force’s at-sea prepositioning program.” It is expected to operate mainly in Diego Garcia and Korea. The Fisher is 652 feet long and has a beam of 105 feet. It can sail at up to 19 knots. As previously reported, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) on June 15 announced that, starting August 30, certain individuals holding Transportation Worker Identification Credentials will have the option of replacing their expiring TWICs with a threeyear Extended Expiration Date TWIC. That credential will cost $60 and may be obtained with a single trip to an enrollment center. The TSA has posted a one-page “Policy Bulletin” covering the basics at www.tsa.gov/ twic, along with a four-page “Overview and FAQ” and the related update to the Code of Federal Regulations. All of those papers may be accessed from the TSA’s TWIC home page, and all are directly linked in a June 15 news post on www.seafarers.org. Part of the TSA Policy Bulletin announcement reads as follows: Effective August 30, 2012, TWIC holders who are U.S. citizens or U.S. nationals, and whose TWICs will expire on or before December 31, 2014, have two options to renew their TWIC. They may either replace their expiring TWIC with a 3-year Extended Expiration Date (EED) TWIC or obtain a standard 5-year replacement. All TWIC holders should begin the application process at least 30 days before his or her TWIC expires. The EED TWIC is a one-time temporary extension option intended to provide convenience and cost-savings to workers pending the deployment of TWIC readers. TWIC holders who are not U.S. citizens or U.S. nationals are required to enroll for a standard 5-year replacement upon expiration of their current TWIC. Option 1 – Replacing expiring TWIC with 3-year EED TWIC (Limited to U.S. Citizens and U.S. Nationals) - $60 Fee & 1 Trip to an Enrollment Center Eligibility: n Individuals are eligible to obtain a 3-year EED TWIC if they meet the following requirements: They are a U.S. Citizen or U.S. National AND Their current TWIC is valid and not revoked AND Their current TWIC is currently unexpired, but expires on or before December 31, 2014. n If any of the above requirements are not met, then the individual is not eligible for a 3-year EED TWIC and should apply for a standard 5-year renewal TWIC (option 2). n As long as an individual maintains eligibility, he/she can obtain a 3-year EED TWIC prior to the expiration of their current TWIC before December 31, 2014. Application Process: n Call the help desk (1-866-347-8942, Mon–Fri, 8AM to 10PM Eastern) to begin the application process. n The help desk will confirm whether the individual meets the eligibility requirements. n Once the EED TWIC arrives at the enrollment center specified by the individual, the individual will be notified for pick up and activation of their 3-year EED TWIC. n The individual should turn in the original TWIC upon receipt of the EED, as it will be revoked at the time of activation of the EED TWIC. Longtime Labor Relations Advocate Tom Murphy Passes Away at Age 75 The SIU was saddened to learn of the him a trusted friend.  Tom was old school passing of Thomas Murphy of Crowley Mari- but not out of touch. He was revered by some time, who served the industry for 60 years. and relied upon by his colleagues. He will be Murphy died July 13 at age 75, just days be- missed and in my prayers.” fore his birthday. Earlier this year, Murphy was a co-honMurphy spent his whole career with oree with Tellez at an annual Seafarers and Crowley Maritime and its subsidiary Marine International House event in New York. DurTransport Lines (MTL). The ing his address to the crowd, son of a New York shipyard Murphy noted that he sailed worker, he started working on several Marine Transport in the maritime industry at Lines ships in order to hone his age 16. He served in the U.S. skills as the company prepared Army beginning at age 19 him to work in labor relations. but returned to maritime after “It was my intention to completing his military years do more than just observe,” and never left the industry. Murphy said. “I worked with SIU Executive Vice Presithe crew and, in short order, dent Augie Tellez said, “Alfound out what it was like to though the majority of his handle mooring lines, hook career was spent working up runarounds to the cargo with MEBA and the NMU, manifolds, crawl through cofI got to know and work with ferdams, set up wind chutes, Tom when Crowley acquired stand watch on the bridge as MTL. We developed a strong well as in the engine room. In relationship built on mutual the evenings, I would record in Tom Murphy respect, understanding and a log what I had observed durtrust.  He was a great family ing the day. At first, the ship’s man and a devoted husband to personnel viewed me with some his wife, Judy.  He was a good Joe.  I will skepticism, but, in due course, they accepted miss my friend and his sharp Irish wit. My me as a shipmate. It was helpful to me.” heartfelt condolences go out to Judy and all Ed Hanley, vice president of labor relathe Murphy clan.” tions for Maersk Line, Limited, stated, “Tom SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel was a man of great integrity who was doubly stated, “Tom was a great guy and someone blessed with extra rations of brains and backI came to respect as a colleague, and some- bone. He dedicated his entire professional one that was a joy to be around. I considered life to the U.S. Merchant Marine.” August 2012 7/25/2012 9:26:11 PM �Piracy Study Gives Extensive Details About Dangers Faced by Mariners The human cost of piracy remained high in 2011, with more than 4,000 mariners from around the world being subjected to armed attacks at the hands of Somali pirates. A new report released by the Oceans Beyond Piracy group goes into exhaustive detail about the plight seafarers face when traversing the Gulf of Aden, Persian Gulf, Indian Ocean and other hightraffic and economically significant waterways. The study, called The Human Cost of Somali Piracy, was released June 6 at Chatham House in London. The report found that a staggering number of mariners suffered from a wide variety of attacks over the course of 2011. For example, in addition to more than 4,000 mariners who were attacked by armed pirates, 342 survived by waiting out the attacks in citadels. More than 1,000 mariners were taken hostage by the pirates. Of those taken hostage, nearly 60 percent reported being abused, used as a human shield, or both. Ultimately, 35 innocent mariners lost their lives in 2011 alone at the hands of Somali pirates. For those captured, 2011 also marked a significant change in the tactics used by the pirates. Although there were notable exceptions, prior to last year piracy had been viewed, more or less, as a menacing but not necessarily violent crime. “In late 2010 and the first part of 2011, troubling accounts from hostages released after months in captivity forced maritime stakeholders to reassess their perception of piracy,” the report said. “Specifically, hostages recounted incidents of physical and psychological abuse by their pirate captors, which eroded the perception of Somali pirates as humane captors.” In addition, the pirates have also changed the way they collect ransom for the crews and cargo. Before, pirates would simply stay aboard a captured ship until the ransom was paid. Today, the pirates have separated crews from their ships and from each other. “To further complicate shipowners’ ability to negotiate for the release of their crew, hostages are not always kept aboard their vessels,” said the study. “In some cases, they are moved to other boats. In one known case, only the crew was taken while the ship was left behind (the MV Leopard). In the case of the MV Vega 5, two Spanish crew members, the only Western seafarers aboard the vessel, were held separately. As a result, they were not freed when the vessel was rescued by the Indian Navy, and the Spanish government later paid a reported $7 million for their release.” While governments – spurred by maritime labor – have stepped up and confronted pirates, potentially saving the lives of hundreds of seafarers worldwide, there still are numerous challenges to ending piracy. Creating a legal deterrent for piracy is a major source of contention for mariners suffering from attacks, according to the report. While there has been some progress with different nations making piracy a crime, there is no international and very little national enforcement of anti-pirate laws. Further, the international community has contributed a modest amount of resources to fighting piracy, the report states, and has limited coordination with various navies with presences in the region. One of the study’s overarching themes was the increase in pirate attacks and the fact that these confrontations often go unreported and generally are misunderstood by the public. The lack of public outcry over the threat of attack has many implications that hamper the safety of merchant mariners. Without recognition and vocal support, the report argues, governments are less inclined to take more serious steps to address piracy. In addition, the families of captured seafarers may be left with little support by local communities when their relatives go missing. Many maritime industry groups, including unions like the SIU and coalitions such as the International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF), have made eradicating piracy a top priority. This solidarity from the industry has resulted in positive strides by governments from all around the world. However, as this report indicates, there is still much to be done in the fight against piracy. The full report can be found at www.oceansbeyondpiracy.org/. ITF Report Exposes ‘Black Sea of Shame’ The International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF), a global labor group whose affiliates (including the SIU) represent more than 4.5 million workers worldwide, has released a report that describes some of the horrific conditions for mariners who sail the Black Sea. The study, titled “Black Sea of Shame,” goes into detail about some of the hardships and extreme challenges faced by seafarers from numerous countries who sail the Black Sea. The report aims to draw attention to their plight and to help spur improvements to working conditions. The study provides several pages of individual examples of withheld wages, wrecked vessels, and abandoned crews. These case studies provide shocking revelations into the reality of working aboard runawayflag and other questionably owned and operated vessels. The report found that several violations of workers’ and human rights consistently happened on the Black Sea. According to the findings, workers in the Black Sea region face a high frequency of vessel accidents, groundings and sinkings. While the Black Sea is susceptible to extreme weather, particularly in the winter months, the report alleges that other, preventable factors come in to play. “In addition to poor weather conditions and geographical features, [the high incidence of accidents] is likely to be due to the proliferation of older vessels operating with substandard conditions,” the report states. “There would appear to be a lack of investment and poor maintenance due to a flawed economic model that does not sustain minimum safety measures.” Other significant problems that workers face on the Black Sea are wage theft and almost constant delays in receiving wages when they receive them at all. This issue is compounded by the fact that, due to lax regulations and virtually no international oversight, there is little legal recourse for obtaining the wages, the report finds. Effectively, according to the ITF, many seafarers end up working for months for no pay. “It seems acceptable behavior on the part of shipowners to manage shortfalls in cash flow by neglecting to pay wages,” said the report. “This shows a total disrespect for basic human rights. In such circumstances the employment relationship is utterly dysfunctional and results in seafarers being forced to go on strike … or, in some cases, take more extreme measures such as hunger strikes.” In keeping with the above sentiment, the study argues that seamen who sail the Black Sea are left with a feeling of hopelessness when it comes to protesting their working conditions. “It would appear that the labor market in the Black Sea is dominated by seafarers either at the beginning or towards the end of their careers,” the report states. “Seafarers can feel that they have no choice but to accept conditions that would be unthinkable ashore or in other regions of the world. In addition there is strong evidence to suggest that crewing agents in the region make extensive use of blacklisting to intimidate crew and discourage them from making complaints.” These facts have a serious impact on the lives of seafarers and their families, the report concludes. The ITF plans on making a case before the International Maritime Organization and other bodies to draw attention and ratchet up enforcement of labor regulations. Navy Adm. James Winnefeld (center), vice chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, joins Navy Adm. Samuel Locklear, commander of U.S. Pacific Command; Air Force Gen. William M. Fraser, commander, U.S. Transportation Command; Navy Adm. Jonathan W. Greenert, chief of Naval Operations; Coast Guard Commandant Adm. Robert J. Papp; and Army Gen. Charles H. Jacoby Jr., commander, U.S. Northern Command as they testify on the Law of the Sea Convention. (Photo by Air Force Sgt. Chuck Marsh) Military Leaders Back Law of Sea Treaty Air Force Gen. William M. Fraser, the commander of the U.S. Transportation Command (TRANSCOM), has joined other high-ranking military, government, and maritime industry officials in calling on the U.S. government to ratify an important international treaty dealing with the world’s oceans. Known as the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), the treaty would serve important functions that would help solidify the nation’s naval power if ratified by Congress. Fraser testified before the Senate Foreign Relations Committee on the matter on June 14. He joined several other top military officers who were called to give their opinions on the treaty, including the vice chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Navy Adm. James Winnefeld, Coast Guard Commandant Robert Papp, U.S. Pacific Command commander Navy Adm. Samuel Locklear, and U.S. Northern Command commander Army Gen. Charles Jacoby Jr. Fraser noted that the treaty will provide a legal framework that will help the country to get a firmer grip on the nation’s maritime territory while also allowing for disputes to be settled easier, faster, and with more efficiency. August 2012 11766_August.indd 5 “In today’s environment, we assess our navigation and overflight rights through customary international law,” Fraser said. “To better secure our global access, joining the Law of the Sea Convention would provide a solid legal foundation to our military and commercial partners that transport the lifeline of supplies and equipment to our warfighters around the globe.” For Fraser and other military leaders, maintaining and expanding our nation’s reach on the world’s seas is paramount to national defense. Fraser mentioned the importance of private ship operators, including those with SIU contracts, as being a particularly significant partner in assisting the U.S. warfighter in times of conflict. Ratifying UNCLOS, according to Fraser, would be a major boon to all these components. “On any given day, TRANSCOM has approximately 30 ships loading, unloading or under way,” Fraser said. “We have a mobility aircraft taking off and landing every 90 seconds. These assets are operated by our military components and our commercial partners. It’s vital we maintain freedom of the high seas and international overflight routes for our military and our commercial operations as these freedoms are essential to our nation’s strategic mobility.” Winnefeld pointed out another issue, which is the emergence of new global powers and the effect that they may have on the world’s waters. “[There are] ongoing and persistent efforts on the part of a number of nations, including those with growing economic and military power, to advance their national laws and set precedents that could restrict our maritime activities, particularly within the bounds of their exclusive economic zones,” said Winnefeld. That fact could have a major impact on global trade and the U.S.’s ability to maintain its naval dominance in the decades to come. Ultimately, according to Fraser, Winnefeld, and the other military leaders in attendance at the hearing, ratifying UNCLOS is a sensible move for our nation’s future. “As we move forward and look to the future challenges, support of [the] Law of the Sea Convention is essential to our national strategy and security,” said Fraser. Seafarers LOG 5 7/25/2012 9:26:12 PM �United Seaman’s Service Announces Recipients of 2012 AOTOS Awards The late bosun (photo above) holds his grandson, Thomas Joseph Soresi – who was named after him. In the photo at right, Soresi is pictured behind the old New York hall in November 1963, two years after joining the union. Union Bids Emotional Farewell To Chief Bosun Tommy Soresi In many ways, Chief Bosun Tommy Soresi embodied the most dedicated SIU members of his era. Physically tough but with a heart of gold, he devoted decades to the advancement of both the union and its affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. Soresi passed away June 22 at age 70, following a heart attack. A Staten Island, N.Y.-area resident and a native of nearby Bay Ridge, Brooklyn, he had retired November of last year. Apart from his time with the SIU, he was a motorcycle enthusiast – and, most of all, enjoyed spending time with his family and especially his grandson, Thomas, his namesake. The emotional reactions to Soresi’s death from union officials and fellow rank-andfile members reflected his popularity and respect. A familiar figure on northeastern shore gangs, at SIU and Maritime Trades Department meetings, and in Piney Point during the school’s earliest days, Soresi was a mainstay with the union since 1961. Tom’s son, Joseph, is vice president of the union’s Atlantic District. Remembering his father, Joseph stated, “He was the greatest guy in the world. Everything I am today is because of him. I will miss him more each day.” Tom Soresi was a longtime confidant of SIU President Michael Sacco. “We worked together in New York for a number of years, on and off the waterfront,” Sacco said. “We were in a lot of beefs together. He was a good friend and a good family man who loved life. Tommy was a good union man and he definitely will be missed.” SIU Executive Vice President Augie Tellez remembered working closely with Soresi “since 1978, when I was hired in New York and he was the chief bosun at the Sea-Land shore gang. We were together on numerous assignments throughout the country and Tom’s true colors always showed SIU VP Joseph Soresi (left) is pictured with his father, Chief Bosun Tommy Soresi, during a recent Maritime Trades Department meeting in Florida. The bosun spent 50 years in the SIU. 6 Seafarers LOG 11766_August.indd 6 through. He was an SIU man from head to toe, a real standup guy and truly a man’s man. He came up at a time when the waterfront was a more rough-and-tumble place and he could come off as a big grizzly bear. He was serious when called for, but also funny, warm and generous. In truth he was a big teddy bear with a big heart that ironically finally gave out. He was my friend and brother and l will miss him terribly.” Assistant Vice President Nick Celona recalled, “I go back with Tommy a long time, from when I was shipping out in Brooklyn as a young kid. I had just come out of Piney Point and first met him at the union meetings. We always got along really well, and I always admired him. As the years progressed, we continued working together. I have fond memories of Tommy as a good, solid SIU union man. He was very kind to me.” Fellow shore gang Bosun John Cain said he “was crazy about Tommy. The shore gang was Tommy; he made it what it is. He was one of the icons of the union.” Close friend and fellow Seafarer John Natoli knew Soresi for nearly 50 years. “We had a lot of good times and he’s a guy I’m really going to miss,” Natoli said. “He was a great guy. Even after he retired, I talked to him every day or at least every other day. I just can’t believe he’s gone.” After spending his early years with the union sailing, Soresi was one of the first people assigned to Piney Point when the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship was being built, starting in 1967. (The overall campus was renamed the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in the early 1990s.) In a 2007 interview about the school’s founding, Soresi spoke in terms and tones that typified him: He wasn’t complaining, but he didn’t sugarcoat the experience. He and many others who were on hand in the late 1960s usually spent seven days a week performing physically demanding tasks. “We worked very hard and very long,” Soresi told a reporter for the Seafarers LOG. “I really don’t know how all of us hung in there…. I came to Piney Point from Brooklyn and it was like a no-man’s land.” But, he added, the vision of the late SIU President Paul Hall paid off. “It was hard work, but we had a lot of faith in his leadership and in the leadership of our other union officials,” Soresi said in the same interview. “It wasn’t a very gratifying job at that time, but later on, when you saw what you helped develop, it all worked out.” Soresi’s survivors include his wife of 47 years, Barbara; his daughter, Justine; his son, Joseph; his daughter-in-law, Joanne; and his grandson, Thomas. SIU headquarters and regional officials and members were on hand to pay their respects during the memorial services in late June. Two U.S. shipping company executives and a United States Senator have been chosen as recipients of the United Seamen’s Service’s (USS) 2012 Admiral of the Ocean Sea (AOTOS) Awards. Niels M. Johnsen, CEO and chairman of International Shipholding Corporation; Captain Robert Johnston, senior vice president and head of U.S. Flag Strategic Business Unit for Seafarers-contracted Overseas Shipholding Group (OSG); and U.S. Sen. Mary Landrieu, (D-La.) have been designated as winners of the distinguished prize. They will be presented their respective awards Oct. 26 during a maritime industry dinner and dance gala in New York. The dinner will be chaired by SIU President Michael Sacco. In addition to the AOTOS award winners, several American mariners also will be recognized during the festivity for specific acts of bravery and heroism while at sea. “Niels M. Johnsen represents the finest in ship management just as Bob Johnston brings seagoing and operational excellence to our industry,” said Retired U.S. Army Gen. Kenneth Wykle, chairman of the USS AOTOS Committee, in announcing the award recipients. “Senator Landrieu has spent her career in elected office bringing a leadership voice to efforts that benefit all Americans. “It is our honor to honor these three with the AOTOS Award this year,” he added. Niels M. Johnsen Johnsen joined International Shipholding Corporation in 1970 after service in the U.S. Army. He has been executive chairman and chief executive officer of the company since 2007. Johnsen also serves as chairman of the business’ principal subsidiaries: SIU-contracted Central Gulf Lines, Inc. and Waterman Steamship Corporation. Since 1988, he has served on the company’s board of directors. Johnsen is a native of New Jersey and a 1967 graduate of Tulane University. Capt. Robert Johnston Captain Johnston was head of OSG’s Shipping Operations from 2005 until he received his current appointment. In his previous role, the captain established numerous programs dedicated to improve safety, environmental and operational performance of OSG’s international and U.S.-flag fleet. Prior to that, he Niels M. Johnsen held nuChairman & CEO merous International Shipholding Corp. positions including chief commercial officer and vice president of U.S. operations. Before coming ashore in 1976, Captain Johnston served on crude oil tankers and product carriers in capacities ranging from third mate to master. He holds a bachelor of science degree in marine transportation from SUNY Maritime College and is a graduate of the executive program at Dartmouth University’s Tuck Business School. Captain Johnston also is vice chairman of Intertanko. Sen. Mary L. Landrieu Senator Landrieu is currently the chair of the Senate Small Business Committee, chair of the Appropriations Subcommittee on Homeland Security and a member of the Energy and Natural Resources Committees. The nonpartisan Congress.org has ranked Senator Landrieu as one of the most effective legislators in the Senate. Senator Landrieu was first elected to public office at the age of 23. In 1996, after serving eight years as a Louisiana state representative and two terms as State Treasurer, she became the first woman from Louisiana elected to a full term in the U.S. Senate. The senator has been a leading voice in Washington for the Gulf Coast recovery effort. In the wake of Hurricanes Katrina and Rita and the failures of the federal levee system, she secured billions in recovery dollars and has worked extensively to jumpstart recovery projects. The USS provides services for the U.S. Merchant Marine, the American Armed Forces, and seafarers of the world. A non-profit agency established in 1942, it operates centers in six foreign ports in Europe, Asia, and Africa and in the Indian Ocean. The organization also provides Mary L. Landrieu U.S. Senator seagoing libraries to American vessels through its (D) Louisana affiliate, the American Merchant Marine Library Association. All proceeds from the AOTOS event benefit community services abroad for the U.S. Merchant Marine, seafarers of other nations, and U.S. government and military overseas. Capt. Robert Johnston Senior VP Overseas Shipholding Group August 2012 7/25/2012 9:26:16 PM �High Court Finds Affordable Care Act Constitutional The U.S. Supreme Court, in its most anticipated rulings in recent years, on June 28 upheld the constitutionality of the Affordable Care Act of 2010 In reaching its 5-4 decision, the nation’s highest court noted that the measure’s mandate that most Americans obtain insurance or pay a penalty was authorized by Congress’s power to levy taxes. The verdict was a victory for President Obama and Congressional Democrats, affirming the central legislative achievement of Obama’s presidency. “Today’s decision was a victory for people all over this country whose lives are more secure because of this law,” President Obama said in a televised White House statement shortly after the court’s verdict became public. “The Affordable Care Act’s requirement that certain individuals pay a financial penalty for not obtaining health insurance may reasonably be characterized as a tax,” Chief Justice Roberts said in the majority opinion. “Because the Constitution permits such a tax, it is not our role to forbid it, or to pass upon its wisdom or fairness.” Justices Ruth Bader Ginsburg, Stephen Breyer, Sonia Sotomayor and Elena Kagan joined Roberts in the majority. Justices Antonin Scalia, Anthony Kennedy, Clarence Thomas, and Samuel Alito dissented from the majority opinion. While upholding the Affordable Care Act’s constitutionality, the court rejected the administration’s central argument that the measure’s individual mandate was justified by Congress’s power to regulate interstate commerce. The vote on this specification was again 5-4, but in this instance Chief Justice Roberts and the court’s four more conservative members were in agreement. In another development, the court greatly limited the law’s expansion of Medicaid, the joint federal-state program that provides health care to poor and disabled people. Seven justices agreed that Congress had exceeded its constitutional authority by forcing states to participate in the expansion by threatening them with the loss of existing federal payments. “We are pleased and relieved that the Supreme Court has upheld the constitutionality of the Affordable Care Act,” said AFL-CIO President Richard Trumka. “Today’s deci- sion means that we can continue moving full speed ahead to implement and build upon the Affordable Care Act. We have no illusion that the destination has been reached, and we are more committed than ever to the hard work necessary to achieve our dream of quality health care for all. “With this decision more than 105 million Americans will continue to benefit from the elimination of lifetime limits and the coverage or preventive services without cost-sharing, and more than 6 million young adults will remain covered by their parents’ health care plan,” Trumka added. “Seniors will continue to save money on prescription drugs as the Part D donut hole closes over the next eight years; already over 5 million seniors have saved $3.7 billion on prescriptions in 2010 and 2011. And insurance companies will not be able to deny coverage due to preexisting conditions, charge women more or drop coverage for those who get sick.” The Affordable Care Act is valuable legislation for a host of reasons, according to Elsie Gould, director of Health Policy at the Economic Policy Institute (EPI), an independent, nonprofit think tank that researches the impact of economic trends and policies on working people in the United States. “Most notably, it provides coverage for millions of Americans who would not have been able to secure insurance, and therefore, health care when they need it,” Gould wrote in an EPI news release issued following the court’s ruling. “The Supreme Court decision to uphold ACA was also important because it gives clarity and certainty to states and private industry that they should start preparing for the main provisions to kick in in 2014. It resolves any uncertainty that was felt throughout the country by the important players, and now provides the necessary push for its implementation.” Following the ACA’s passage in 2010, Journalist Nick Baumann, who serves as the new editor at Mother Jones listed 10 ways President Obama’s signature health care law will impact the healthy and sick, young and old, rich and poor. Following are Baumann’s findings: n Insurance companies can no longer impose lifetime coverage limits on your insurance. Never again will you face the risk of getting really sick and then, a few months in, having your insurer tell you, “Sorry, you’ve ‘run out’ of coverage.” n If you don’t know someone who has run into a lifetime cap, you probably know someone who has run into an annual cap. The use of these will be sharply limited. (They’ll be eliminated entirely in 2014.) n Insurers can no longer tell kids with preexisting conditions that they’ll insure them “except for” the preexisting condition. That’s called preexisting condition exclusion, and it’s out the window. n A special, temporary program will help adults with preexisting conditions get coverage. It expires in 2014, when the health insurance exchanges—basically big “pools” of businesses and individuals—begin. That’s when all insurers will have to cover everyone, preexisting condition or not. n Insurance companies can’t drop you when you get sick, either—this plan means the end of “rescissions.” n You can stay on your parents’ insurance until you’re 26. n Seniors get $250 towards closing the “doughnut hole” in their prescription drug coverage. Currently, prescription drug coverage ends once you’ve spent $2,700 on drugs and it doesn’t kick in again until you’ve spent nearly $6,200. Eventually, the health care reform bill will close the donut hole entirely. Next year, 50 percent of the doughnut hole will be covered. n Medicare’s preventive benefits now come with a free visit with your primary care doctor every year to plan out your prevention services. And there are no more co-pays for preventative services in Medicare. n This is a big one: Small businesses get big tax credits—up to 50 percent of premium costs—for offering health insurance to their workers. n Insurers with unusually high administrative costs have to offer rebates to their customers, and every insurance company has to reveal how much it spends on overhead. Since the ACA passed in 2010, researchers at Mother Jones have added one other benefit to Baumann’s original list: n Free birth control and other preventative services for women, unless you work for a faith-based organization that opposes birth control. Notice Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan Advises Members of Their Right to Purchase COBRA Continuation Coverage The Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan (SHBP) would like to notify you of the right to elect to purchase continuation of health coverage if you lose coverage, or experience a reduction in coverage due to certain qualifying events. This continuation of coverage is known as COBRA. Generally, if you are the employee, you will be eligible to purchase COBRA coverage for a certain period of time if you lost coverage because you did not have enough days of covered employment (unless the job was lost due to gross misconduct). If you are the family member of a covered employee, you may also elect COBRA for a certain period of time when the employee loses coverage; or if you are going to lose coverage because of a divorce or the death of the employee; or in the case of a child of an employee, the child reaches an age at which the Plan no longer considers him or her to be a “dependent child.” In the case of a divorce or the death of an employee, you must notify the Plan within 60 days of the divorce or death in order to be eligible to purchase continuation coverage. If you do not notify the Plan in a timely manner, you may not be eligible to receive further Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan Important Notice To Participants with Children Between Ages 19 and 25 The Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan would like to remind you that since January 1, 2011, the Plan has offered health coverage to children between the ages of 19 and 25, regardless of whether the child is a full-time student. Your child does not have to live with you or be supported by you to be eligible for coverage from the Plan; however, you must provide a notarized affidavit which certifies that your child does not have other health coverage. If your child is about to turn 19, you must send the Plan a completed Enrollment Form and Affidavit for Dependent Child in order to maintain your child’s coverage. If the Plan does not receive August 2012 11766_August_X.indd 7 this form by your child’s 19th birthday, your child will lose coverage from the Plan. Coverage will not be reinstated until the first of the month following the month in which the Plan receives the form. The Enrollment Form and Affidavit for Dependent Child is available at www. seafarers.org, under the Member Benefits Section. You must click on the link for the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan. The Plan will also mail this form to you upon request. If you have any questions about the form or about enrolling your child, you may contact the Claims Department at 1-800-252-4674. coverage. If you are the spouse or dependent child of an employee, you may also elect COBRA if you experience a reduction in coverage when the employee retires. When you retire, if you were eligible for benefits from the SHBP at the time of your retirement, you will be eligible to purchase COBRA continuation coverage for yourself and/or your family members, even if you are eligible for retiree health benefits. This will enable you and/or your family to continue to receive the same level of benefits that you had prior to your retirement for a certain period of time. If you meet the eligibility requirements for retiree health benefits, you will begin to receive those benefits when the COBRA period ends. For more information about continuation coverage rights under COBRA, please refer to the Plan’s “Guide to Your Benefits.” The guide is also available in PDF format on the SIU web site, www. seafarers.org, under “Member BenefitsSeafarers Benefit Plans-Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan.” If you have questions regarding this notice or COBRA, contact the Plan at 1 (800) 252-4674. Notice SHBP is a Grandfathered Plan under Affordable Care Act The Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan would like to remind you that it believes that it is a “grandfathered health plan” under the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (the Affordable Care Act). As permitted by the Affordable Care Act, a grandfathered health plan can preserve certain basic health coverage that was already in effect when that law was enacted. Being a grandfathered health plan means that this Plan may not include certain consumer protections of the Affordable Care Act that apply to other plans – for example, the requirement for the provision of preventive health services without any cost sharing. However, grandfathered health plans must comply with certain other consumer protections in the Affordable Care Act – for example, the elimination of lifetime limits on benefits. Questions regarding which protections apply and which protections do not apply to a grandfathered health plan and what might cause a plan to change from grandfathered health plan status can be directed to the Plan Administrator at 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. You may also contact the Employee Benefits Security Administration, U.S. Department of Labor at 1-866-4443272 or www.dol.gov/ebsa/healthreform. This website has a table summarizing which protections do and do not apply to grandfathered health plans. Seafarers LOG 7 7/26/2012 6:06:47 PM �Labor Federation Pushes ‘Bring Jobs Home Act’ Seafarers hold the operations guide to the new system in preparation for testing out the software. Pictured from left to right are Instructor Brad Wheeler, Randall VanHorn, Richard Dozier, Timothy Smithwick, Andrew Higbee, Peter Madden and Martin Meravy. School Adds More High-Tech Training Tools Seafarers who train and upgrade at the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md., are no strangers to high-tech training tools that enhance their ability to do their jobs, and the school itself is constantly bringing in the latest devices to keep up with the times, as it did with the inclusion of a new technology alliance with Rose Point Navigation Systems. The new equipment, known as Rose Point ECS + Inland, is a state-of-the-art navigation software tool designed by the Washington state-based company Rose Point Navigation Systems. The system was first put to use on June 25 with a group from Allied Transportation Company who were eager to get to use the new features. “We’re really excited to have an opportunity to have this great piece of equipment at the school,” said Brad Wheeler, a Paul Hall Center instructor. “It’s things like the Rose Point ECS + Inland software and our other industry-leading train- ing tools that allow us to not only stay ahead of the curve, but also ensure that all of the people who go through the school come out well-trained and ready to handle any situation.” Rose Point Navigation Systems was started in 2003 by a former Microsoft software development manager who was passionate about marine navigation. The company creates software for use by commercial marine operators on a PCbased platform. According to the company, “Rose Point ECS improves operational efficiency, situation awareness, and decision making with straightforward, uncluttered displays and controls that provide instant access to the information mariners need to navigate safely.” All Seafarers interested in learning more about this and other training tools are encouraged to contact the Paul Hall Center at (301) 994-0010 or talk with their port agents. MERPAC Meets in Piney Point Two working groups of the Coast Guard’s Merchant Marine Personnel Advisory Committee (MERPAC) gathered at the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md., June 11-13. The groups finalized development of assessment criteria for the Coast Guard; it was the third time MERPAC has met on this issue, which involves the deck and engine departments. Later this year, the full committee is expected to vote on the criteria and, if approved, submit details to the agency. SIU representatives at the June meeting included former Paul Hall Center Director of Training Bill Eglinton and AB Fr. Sinclair Oubre. Some of the other participants are pictured above. The AFL-CIO, its member unions and working families across the nation since the week leading up to July 4 have been gathering at events across the country outside the offices of politicians and corporations to demand they take action now to bring good jobs home and invest in America. In the past decade, 50,000 manufacturing sites have closed in the United States and 6 million American jobs were lost because of outsourcing, according to the labor federation. Some in Congress however, have failed to act on a legislative agenda that will create and keep jobs here at home. Meanwhile, many of our existing tax and trade policies continue to reward multinational companies who offshore jobs. Participants in the events to date – including activities in Pennsylvania, Michigan, Wisconsin, Nebraska, Ohio and Georgia, to name a few – have been urging corporation heads, members of Congress and other elected representatives to do their parts to help keep and create jobs in the U.S. by: n Passing the Bring Jobs Home Act legislation which was introduced by Sen. Debbie Stabenow (D-Mich.) in the Senate (S. 2884) and by Rep. Bill Pascrell (D-N.J.) in the House (H.R. 5542). If passed, the legislation would eliminate the tax deduction U.S. companies receive for moving expenses and would reward businesses that bring jobs back to the U.S. with a tax credit. n Addressing currency manipulation by other countries, which is a key driver of offshoring. n Taxing the overseas income of U.S. corporations the same way we tax their domestic income, so they can no longer lower their tax bill by shifting income and jobs overseas. n Pushing for fair trade policies that benefit workers—not just multinational corporations. n Passing the United States Call Center Worker and Consumer Protection Act to prevent offshoring more service-sector jobs. “Every major industrial country has a strategic plan to create and keep good jobs. It’s time for us to follow suit.” said AFL-CIO President Richard Trumka. “We need a real plan that lives up to our patriotic ideals – a plan to put our people back to work and end the tax breaks and flawed trade policies that encourage rampant offshoring.” Notice Plan Administrator Announces Additional Changes in Eligibility for Health Benefits for Pensioners Who Return to Work Note: The following is excerpted from a letter dated June 29 that was mailed to SHBP participants. On behalf of the Board of Trustees of the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan (SHBP), I would like to notify you of some additional changes with regard to the eligibility requirements for health benefits for pensioners who return to work. As I informed you in a letter dated February 3, 2012, the Trustees implemented some changes in these requirements. The Trustees have recently adopted a few further clarifications with regard to pensioners’ eligibility for health benefits. 8 Seafarers LOG 11766_August.indd 8 As previously stated, if you retire with medical benefits from this Plan and your pension benefits are suspended because you returned to work; your pensioner health benefits will also be suspended. In an effort to make it easier for you to qualify for health benefits as an active employee, you will now become eligible after working125 days within the first 12 months of returning to active employment. However, if you don’t work 125 days during the first 12 months after returning to employment, then you must satisfy the regular SHBP eligibility rule for qualifying for health benefits, which requires 125 days of covered employment in the previous calendar year, and one day in the last six months. If you qualified for pensioner health benefits before retiring, but lost them when you went back to work, the SHBP will immediately reinstate the pensioner health benefits when you retire again. However, the Trustees have made it clear that if you were not eligible for pensioner’s health benefits at the time you first began receiving a pension, you will not be able to establish eligibility for those benefits by returning to work and obtaining additional days of covered employment. Please note, if you did not receive the previous letter, it is posted at www.seafarers. org. You can access this letter and all other SHBP communications under the “Member Benefits” section by clicking on the heading “Seafarers Benefit Plans,” then clicking on “Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan.” The changes described in this letter are effective August 1, 2012. If you have any questions about this letter or about any of your benefits, feel free to contact the Plan at 1-800-252-4674…. Sincerely, Margaret Bowen Administrator August 2012 7/25/2012 9:26:19 PM �OMU Frank Zoumakpe (right) picks up his A-seniority membership book at the hall in Wilmington, Calif. Congratulating him is Safety Director Abdul Al Omari. AB Travis Hudgins (left) receives his full book from Port Agent Kris Hopkins at the union hall in Ft. Lauderdale, Fla. Taking the union oath and receiving his full book in Oakland, Calif., is AB Santiago Rodriguez (left). Patrolman Nick Marrone II is at right. At the hall in Houston, Safety Director Brian Kinard (right) presents an A-book to AB John Mbelwa. Book Presentations From Coast to Coast FOWT James Ross (right) takes the oath for his full B-book during the June membership meeting in Oakland, Calif. SIU Asst. VP Nick Celona is at left. In Piney Point, Md., Port Agent Pat Vandegrift (right in photos directly above and at left) recently presented full books to GUDEs Michael Gray (left) and Abdulkhalek Mohsen (right) and as well as an A-book to Oiler Derek Ivory (center). Black Eagle Crew Votes for Standard Contracts Earlier this year, members aboard Sealift’s Black Eagle voted in favor of the new standard freightship and tanker agreements. SIU members said they are very pleased with the new contracts, which feature yearly wage increases while maintaining benefits. (Detailed coverage of the standard contracts appeared in the June LOG.) Pictured from left to right aboard the Black Eagle, which was docked on the West Coast, are OS Manuel Alicaway, AB Editho Barraca, SIU VP West Coast Nick Marrone, SA Joseph Hernandez, AB Romero Jomoc, GUDE Justin Smith, GUDE Andre Graham, AB Anthony Lowe and Bosun Reynaldo Nuqui. August 2012 11766_August.indd 9 Seafarers LOG 9 7/25/2012 9:26:25 PM �HAPPY RETIREMENT – Longtime maintenance man Charlie Cowan has retired after many years working for the SIU, most recently at the hall in Oakland, Calif. Members and employees gathered with Cowan (middle row, center, in dark shirt) to wish him fair winds and following seas. At Sea & Ashore With the SIU CATCHING UP IN NORFOLK – Retiree Henry Williams Jr., 83, (left, with Port Agent Georg Kenny) stopped by the hall in Norfolk, Va., in early June to catch up on the latest union news and also to reminisce about his sailing days. The former deck-department mariner, who retired from the old NMU in the early 1990s, first shipped out in 1956. Some of his earliest vessels were the Winchester (Eastern Gas and Fuel), Tomahawk (Mathiasen Tanker), Newton (Mystic Steamship) and Flying Foam (American Export Isbrandsten). AT THE HOUSTON HALL – Melchor Lapac Jr. waits for the next job call while resting on Seafarer M.J. Lapac’s lap. GUDE Dennis Pangan is at right. SNAPSHOTS FROM USNS SEAY – These photos were taken during a recent voyage on the USNS Seay, operated by AMSEA. Bosun John Wells (above, left) hand-cranks lifeboat No. 4 into place, while AB Antonio Jones (above, center and right) rides the lifeboat to the water and then admires the Seay’s waterline during the lifeboat test. In photo below, (from left) AB Russell Lofing, AB Tony Burbank and Bosun Wells chat in the crew mess during a break. Thanks to AB Dino Cam for the photos. BBC SEATTLE JOINS SIU FLEET – Seafarers and officers are pictured aboard one of the newest additions to the union-contracted fleet, the AMSEA-operated BBC Seattle. The photo was taken in early June in Sunny Point, N.C., as the vessel prepped for its first voyage under the Stars and Stripes. Those pictured include AB Gerald Kelly, QMEDs Bernard Smalls and David Terry, Chief Steward Juan Gonzalez, SA Sheila Daguio, Chief Engineer Matt Campbell, 1AE Kevin Hogle, Chief Mate Peter Kirk, Second Mate John Finer, Second Assistant Larry French, 3AE Leowen Punzalan and Third Mate Robert Belfield. Bosun Arthur Cross and AB Paul Jagger also were part of the crew but aren’t pictured. Thanks to vessel master Capt. Bud Conroy for sending the photo. ALL IN FAVOR – Seafarers aboard OSG’s Overseas Anacortes unanimously voted in favor of the new standard freightship and tanker agreements on June 15 in Richmond, Calif. Some of the crew members are pictured along with Patrolman Nick Marrone II (fourth from left). 10 Seafarers LOG 11766_August.indd 10 August 2012 7/25/2012 9:26:31 PM �Recertified Bosun Raphael James Recertified Bosun Ray Henderson (left in photo above, with Patrolman Mark von Siegel) had lots to celebrate recently as he and his wife, Karen, welcomed their firstborn son, Kody (pictured with mom in photo at right above). With Seafarers In New York SIU-crewed NY Waterway ferries help commuters in New York and New Jersey. The SIU has maintained offices in New York since its founding in 1938. The current hall, located in Brooklyn, is shown here. SIU CIVMARS are pictured aboard the USNS Robert Peary with Government Services Division Representative Kate Hunt (fourth from right). The ship was docked in nearby Earle, N.J. Seafarers fill the hall for the June membership meeting. August 2012 11766_August.indd 11 Recertified Bosun Domingo Leon Port Agent Bobby Selzer (right) congratulates Recertified Bosun Tom Flanagan on the good news that Flanagan’s daughter, Kathryn, recently won a Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan scholarship. Seafarers LOG 11 7/25/2012 9:26:40 PM �Each week, Seafarers and other locals (photo above) display signs near the union hall in support of pro-worker candidates. In the photo at right, Seafarers pack the hall for the June membership meeting. Around the Port of Honolulu SIU members sail in the steward department aboard Matson’s Matsonia. Engine-department member Federico Giray (right) picks up his first pension check and is congratulated by Amber Akana, secretary at the Honolulu hall. In photo at the immediate right, SIU Asst. VP Ambrose Cucinotta (left) meets with SA Mohamed Ahmed, Chief Cook Teresito Reyes and Recertified Steward Joseph Laureta aboard the Horizon Reliance. Cucinotta and Port Agent Hazel Galbiso (second from left in photo directly above) are joined by Bosun Kissinfor Taylor (left) and AB Jerome Luckett. 12 Seafarers LOG 11766_August.indd 12-13 ACU Shawn Canon recently had five of his poems published in a 2012 anthology titled “Fifty-Eight Stones.” A U.S. Army veteran who served in Vietnam, Canon began sailing with the SIU in 1980. Information about the book is available online at SavantBooksAndPublications.com Engine Storekeeper Aristotle Cortez emailed these photos of fellow crew members celebrating Independence Day aboard the Pride of America. The vessel – the only American-flag deep-sea cruise ship – was docked at Kona. Recertified Steward Robert Wilcox, QEP Joseph Noach, Overseas Tampa August 2012 August 2012 Seafarers LOG 13 7/25/2012 9:48:53 PM �8/12 14 Seafarers LOG 11766_August.indd 14 August 2012 7/25/2012 9:27:03 PM �September & October Membership Meetings Dispatchers’ Report for Deep Sea June 16, 2012 - July 15, 2012 Port Total Registered All Groups A B C Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS Deck Department 19 8 1 5 7 1 2 20 13 2 1 0 1 0 1 0 0 3 2 2 3 4 2 1 4 0 1 7 7 3 18 9 3 12 10 1 10 27 15 3 4 2 1 2 2 0 0 5 6 1 8 3 2 11 1 2 3 14 6 0 56 12 4 41 6 2 21 96 30 5 29 19 2 23 20 1 11 58 26 4 5 5 2 5 3 1 1 3 5 2 9 3 1 4 4 1 4 25 5 2 18 2 2 13 1 0 2 23 5 5 43 19 3 33 13 0 18 79 29 9 13 24 3 12 17 3 9 34 38 7 17 7 4 12 5 1 4 35 9 6 5 2 1 1 5 0 3 12 2 1 0 0 0 0 2 0 0 1 1 0 2 9 0 7 7 0 5 14 7 4 37 13 2 38 11 4 29 52 27 5 1 1 0 2 1 1 2 4 2 1 23 14 5 13 9 1 8 61 34 18 311 156 39 235 129 19 133 573 269 80 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS Engine Department 5 3 1 1 2 0 0 5 3 3 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 8 1 4 5 0 5 4 6 2 10 4 1 3 1 0 2 17 9 2 2 0 0 1 0 0 0 3 0 0 11 5 1 6 4 2 2 17 9 3 18 9 2 8 8 2 8 38 18 4 18 10 2 13 11 1 9 40 23 5 4 2 3 4 0 1 1 4 2 1 6 1 1 4 2 2 1 14 2 0 2 2 0 3 1 1 2 8 3 1 15 11 5 6 7 0 4 37 17 6 10 9 2 8 4 1 4 18 18 3 12 10 1 10 7 1 5 17 11 0 1 0 0 5 2 0 2 4 1 0 1 1 0 0 3 0 0 3 2 1 0 4 1 0 2 0 0 4 5 1 13 4 0 11 8 0 7 29 15 1 2 1 2 1 1 0 0 2 2 2 11 14 3 5 6 1 3 19 27 4 142 98 27 93 74 12 55 283 173 40 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS Steward Department 1 0 3 1 2 0 1 4 2 4 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 5 4 0 5 2 0 4 2 4 1 10 3 0 10 3 0 5 11 6 0 3 0 0 0 0 0 0 6 2 1 9 0 0 10 3 0 2 17 3 0 23 5 1 14 5 0 11 32 5 1 14 3 1 6 1 1 4 26 6 1 1 2 0 0 2 0 0 2 1 0 6 2 1 5 1 0 1 9 2 2 8 0 0 12 2 0 8 6 1 1 22 8 1 17 3 0 8 37 8 4 14 7 0 7 10 0 5 16 12 0 15 2 1 13 4 1 8 24 5 2 5 1 2 0 0 1 0 7 1 0 3 0 0 2 1 0 0 4 0 0 1 0 0 1 0 0 0 5 1 0 18 4 0 16 2 0 9 29 4 0 1 2 0 0 0 0 0 2 3 1 21 3 2 15 1 1 7 46 5 3 180 46 12 134 42 4 73 285 72 21 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS Entry Department 4 15 14 0 6 9 4 4 23 22 0 1 0 0 2 0 1 0 4 1 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 3 5 0 9 1 1 9 0 1 1 12 5 0 3 0 0 1 0 0 0 4 0 1 4 11 3 7 4 1 4 10 12 4 13 5 2 9 1 2 8 17 7 1 14 9 1 5 4 3 2 28 29 1 0 2 0 0 0 0 1 0 3 0 2 2 0 1 1 0 2 3 2 2 4 2 1 2 0 1 2 5 8 7 26 7 2 23 6 2 9 56 30 0 9 23 0 10 13 0 0 23 39 3 11 5 2 6 5 1 2 22 4 0 2 3 0 2 2 1 1 2 4 0 5 0 0 1 1 0 0 9 8 1 0 3 0 0 0 0 3 3 5 9 8 5 4 14 4 4 10 21 8 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 6 14 7 2 15 7 5 11 52 20 39 140 99 18 114 57 26 60 297 212 GRAND TOTALS: 672 440 177 480 359 92 287 1,201 811 353 Piney Point........*Tuesday: September 4, *Tuesday: October 9 Algonac...............................Friday: September 7, October 12 Baltimore.........................Thursday: September 6, October 11 Guam............................Thursday: September 20, October 25 Honolulu...........................Friday: September 14, October 19 Houston..........................Monday: September 10, October 15 Jacksonville......................Thursday: September 6, October 11 Joliet.............................Thursday: September 13, October 18 Mobile......................Wednesday: September 12, October 17 New Orleans.....................Tuesday: September 11, October 16 New York..........................Tuesday: September 4, October 9 Norfolk.............................Thursday: September 6, October 11 Oakland........................Thursday: September 13, October 18 Philadelphia..................Wednesday: September 5, October 10 Port Everglades............Thursday: September 13, October 18 San Juan...........................Thursday: September 6, October 11 St. Louis............................Friday: September 14, October 19 Tacoma.............................Friday: September 21, October 26 Wilmington.......................Monday: September 17, October 22 * Piney Point changes created by Labor Day and Columbus Day holidays. Each port’s meeting starts at 10:30 a.m. Personals Kenneth Wells, please contact Kathy Wells at the home address in Jacksonville, N.C. Brandon Maeda would like to get in touch with Wagner Pellerin. Please contact Brandon at brandonmaeda@gmail.com James Hill out of San Francisco, please contact your cousin George Bradley at: F-90678, Q.A. 26-A, T-C.C.F., 414 U.S. Highway 49 North, Tutwiler, MS 38963. Absentee Ballot Procedures Elections for the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU are scheduled for later this year. As in past SIU election years, a comprehensive guide will be published in the Seafarers LOG prior to the balloting. In the case of members eligible to vote who believe they will be at sea during the Nov. 1 through Dec. 31, 2012 voting period or who otherwise think they will need absentee ballots, absentee ballots will be available. The SIU constitution ensures that members who are eligible to vote and who find themselves in this situation may vote. Procedures are established in the SIU constitution to safeguard the secret ballot election, including the absentee ballot process. Here is the procedure to follow when requesting an absentee ballot: 1. Make the request in writing to the SIU office of the secretary-treasurer, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. 2. Include in the request the correct address where the absentee ballot should be mailed. 3. Send the request for an absentee ballot by registered or certified mail. 4. The registered or certified August 2012 11766_August.indd 15 mail envelope must be postmarked no later than midnight, Nov. 15, 2012 and must be received at 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746 no later than Nov. 25, 2012. 5. The secretary-treasurer, after confirming eligibility, will send by registered mail, return receipt requested, to the address designated in the request, a ballot, together with an envelope marked “Ballot” and a mailing envelope no later than Nov. 30, 2012. 6. Upon receiving the ballot and envelope, vote by marking the ballot. After voting the ballot, place the ballot in the envelope marked “Ballot.” Do not write on the “Ballot” envelope. 7. Place the envelope marked “Ballot” in the mailing envelope which is imprinted with the mailing address of the bank depository where all ballots are sent. 8. Sign the mailing envelope on the first line of the upper lefthand corner. Print name and book number on the second line. The mailing envelope is selfaddressed and stamped. 9. The mailing envelope must be postmarked no later than midnight, Dec. 31, 2012 and received by the bank depository no later than Jan. 5, 2013. Total Shipped All Groups Trip A B C Reliefs Registered on Beach All Groups A B C Seafarers LOG 15 7/25/2012 9:27:03 PM �Inquiring Seafarer Seafarers International Union Directory Michael Sacco, President Augustin Tellez, Executive Vice President David Heindel, Secretary-Treasurer George Tricker, Vice President Contracts Tom Orzechowski, Vice President Lakes and Inland Waters Dean Corgey, Vice President Gulf Coast Nicholas J. Marrone, Vice President West Coast Joseph T. Soresi, Vice President Atlantic Coast Kermett Mangram, Vice President Government Services HEADQUARTERS 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746 (301) 899-0675 ALGONAC 520 St. Clair River Dr., Algonac, MI 48001 (810) 794-4988 ANCHORAGE 721 Sesame St., #1C, Anchorage, AK 99503 (907) 561-4988 BALTIMORE 2315 Essex St., Baltimore, MD 21224 (410) 327-4900 GUAM P.O. Box 3328, Hagatna, Guam 96932 Cliffline Office Ctr. Bldg., Suite 103B 422 West O’Brien Dr., Hagatna, Guam 96910 (671) 477-1350 HONOLULU 606 Kalihi St., Honolulu, HI 96819 (808) 845-5222 HOUSTON 1221 Pierce St., Houston, TX 77002 (713) 659-5152 JACKSONVILLE 5100 Belfort Rd., Jacksonville, FL 32256 (904) 281-2622 JOLIET 10 East Clinton St., Joliet, IL 60432 (815) 723-8002 MOBILE 1640 Dauphin Island Pkwy, Mobile, AL 36605 (251) 478-0916 NEW ORLEANS 3911 Lapalco Blvd., Harvey, LA 70058 (504) 328-7545 NEW YORK 635 Fourth Ave., Brooklyn, NY 11232 (718) 499-6600 Government Services Division: (718) 499-6600 Editor’s note: Responses to this month’s question were provided by members at the union-affiliated Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md. The steward-department Seafarers are upgrading to chief cook, while those in the engine department are enrolled in junior engineer (Pavis Whitley) and FOWT (James Cronk), respectively. Sean Mannix ACU It was the Crowley Empire State in 2010 and, besides getting there, everything was a blast. We went to Korea, Japan and Guam. Seeing other countries made me appreciate what we have. The experience made me realize I enjoy what I do, and I’m going to be doing it for a long time. a while, but it was around 120 degrees and we had to stay on base. I can’t forget temperatures like that. There were coolers and bottled water at every station on the base, and you needed an escort to go ashore. Question: What was one of your first ships, and what do you remember about it? Bob Goren SA My first ship was the Maersk Missouri, one of the newer ships. We were on a Middle East route and it was fantastic; I learned a lot. That was in 2010, right after I got out of the apprentice program, and I have nothing but good memories. I’d like to add that I appreciate the whole apprentice program and I’m proud to be a member of this union. It’s a great opportunity. me the ins and outs of the industry – ways to benefit, and things to steer clear of. Emmanuel Matias SA My first ship was the USNS Sisler, in 2006. I remember going to Kuwait with heavy equipment for the Army. The ship took about two weeks to unload, so we were ashore for Pavis Whitley FOWT The El Yunque was my first ship, eight years ago. We were on a Puerto Rico run and that was my first time out of the state of Florida, other than being here (in Piney Point, Md.). That was my secondphase ship. The entire crew was outstanding. They were very informative and gave James Cronk Wiper The Maersk Virginia as part of Phase II, in 2011. I had never been out of the United States, so at the beginning, I was scared. But everybody on the ship was really friendly – officers and crew – and it didn’t take long to catch on. That happened on my second ship, too (the Lummus). People took me under their wings and I did a good job and learned a lot. You find that there are similarities between working aboard ships and other jobs. Hard work is hard work, and using a wrench on a ship is the same as ashore. Pic-From-The-Past NORFOLK 115 Third St., Norfolk, VA 23510 (757) 622-1892 OAKLAND 1121 7th St., Oakland, CA 94607 (510) 444-2360 PHILADELPHIA 2604 S. 4 St., Philadelphia, PA 19148 (215) 336-3818 PINEY POINT P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674 (301) 994-0010 PORT EVERGLADES 1221 S. Andrews Ave., Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33316 (954) 522-7984 SANTURCE 1057 Fernandez Juncos Ave., Stop 16 Santurce, PR 00907 (787) 721-4033 ST. LOUIS/ALTON 4581 Gravois Ave., St. Louis, MO 63116 (314) 752-6500 TACOMA 3411 South Union Ave., Tacoma, WA 98409 (253) 272-7774 WILMINGTON 510 N. Broad Ave., Wilmington, CA 90744 (310) 549-4000 In this file photo from the September 4, 1953 edition of the Log, three mariners board a bus in New York for the trip to Philadelphia. They were headed to help crew up the Ampac Nevada. Pictured from left are Gildo Berdon, J. Raun and Alameda Red. If anyone has a vintage union-related photograph he or she would like to share with other Seafarers LOG readers, please send it to the Seafarers LOG, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. Photographs will be returned, if so requested. High-resolution digital images may be sent to webmaster@seafarers.org 16 Seafarers LOG 11766_August.indd 16 August 2012 7/25/2012 9:27:08 PM �Welcome Ashore Each month, the Seafarers LOG pays tribute to the SIU members who have devoted their working lives to sailing aboard U.S.-flag vessels on the deep seas, inland waterways or Great Lakes. Listed below are brief biographical sketches of those members who recently retired from the union. The brothers and sisters of the SIU thank those members for a job well done and wish them happiness and good health in the days ahead. DEEP SEA NILE DEAN Brother Nile Dean, 65, started sailing with the union in 1990. His earliest trip was on the USNS Triumph. Brother Dean’s most recent ship was operated by Crowley. The engine department member lives in Rusk, Texas. DOYLE ELLETTE Brother Doyle Ellette, 65, signed on with the Seafarers in 1969. A member of the deck department, he upgraded on three occasions at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. Brother Ellette initially worked on the Eagle Traveler. His most recent trip was aboard the Constellation. Brother Ellette calls Irvington, Ala., home. ORLANDO FLORES Brother Orlando Flores, 55, was born in Rio Piedras, P.R. He became an SIU member in 1976, originally shipping aboard the Ft. Hoskins. Brother Flores took advantage of educational opportunities at the Piney Point school. He sailed as a member of the engine department. Brother Flores most recently worked on the San Juan. He settled in Kissimmee, Fla. JERALD GALLETTA Brother Jerald Galletta, 71, donned the SIU colors in 1986. His first voyage was aboard the USNS Contender; his last was on the Observation Island. Brother Galletta attended classes on numerous occasions at the maritime training center in Piney Point, Md. The deck department member makes his home in Richlands, N.C. Brother Kron sailed in the engine department, most recently on the Spirit. In 1992, he trained at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Kron is a resident of San Francisco. WILLIAM NATHAN Brother William Nathan, 50, signed on with the SIU in 1979. He originally sailed aboard a Cove Shipping Inc. vessel. Brother Nathan enhanced his skills in 1986 at the Piney Point school. He worked in the engine department. Brother Nathan last shipped on the USNS Capella. He lives in Belle Chasse, La. MICHAEL WHITE Brother Michael White, 65, joined the SIU in 2001 as the NMU merged in the Seafarers International Union. The deck department member’s most recent trip was aboard the Cape Kennedy. Brother White attended classes on two occasions at the unionaffiliated school in Piney Point, Md. He resides in Orleans, Mass. INLAND ROBERT BOUTON Brother Robert Bouton, 64, became a union member in 1984 in the port of Wilmington, Calif. His earliest trip was aboard a Crowley Towing & Transportation of Wilmington vessel. Brother Bouton enhanced his skills often at the Paul Hall Center. He most recently worked on the Pacific Reliance. Brother Bouton sailed in the engine department and calls Molina, Col., home. DANIEL HANSEN Brother Daniel Hansen, 62, was born in Maine. He donned the SIU colors in 1974 while in Philadelphia. Brother Hansen primarily worked aboard vessels operated by Mariner Towing. He makes his home in Buxton, Maine. JOHN KRON MICHAEL LYDICK Brother John Kron, 65, began sailing with the union in 1991 while in the port of San Francisco. He first worked aboard the Pacific. Brother Michael Lydick, 57, started shipping with the union in 1975. He originally sailed with Steuart Transporta- August 2012 11766_August.indd 17 tion Company as a member of the deck department. Brother Lydick, a Maryland native, frequently attended classes at the SIU-affiliated school. He last shipped with Crowley Towing of Jacksonville. Brother Lydick resides in Lake City, Fla. RICHARD MILLS Brother Richard Mills, 62, joined the SIU in 1989. He was mainly employed with OSG Ship Management. The deck department member lives in his native state, Delaware. DONALD SABARA Brother Donald Sabara, 62, was born in Philadelphia. He signed on with the union 1996. Brother Sabara sailed with Crowley for the duration of his career. He is now a resident of Langhorne, Pa. ERNEST SCOTT Brother Ernest Scott, 62, joined the SIU ranks in 1984. His earliest trip was with Steuart Transporta- tion Company. Brother Scott was born in Colorado and worked in the deck department. In 1993, he upgraded at the Piney Point school. Brother Scott was last employed with OSG Ship Management. He settled in Merritt, N.C. CHARLES TUCK Brother Charles Tuck, 60, began his SIU career in 1986 while in Houston. He initially shipped with Moran Towing of Texas. Brother Tuck was a deck department member. He most recently sailed on the Achievement. Brother Tuck calls Miami home. EDWARD WHILDEN Brother Edward Whilden, 62, became a union member in 1971 while in Philadelphia. He first worked with Mariner Towing as a deck department member. Brother Whilden was born in New Jersey. His final vessel was operated by OSG Ship Management. Brother Whilden makes his home in Fort McCoy, Fla. JOHN ZARROLI Brother John Zarroli, 59, started sailing with the SIU in 1977. He worked in both the deep sea and inland divisions. Brother Zarroli’s first voyage was aboard the John Penn. The deck department member last shipped with Crowley Towing of Wilmington. Brother Zarroli lives in Gilbert, Ariz. GREAT LAKES SALEH SAEED Brother Saleh Saeed, 65, donned the SIU colors in 1970. He first sailed on Bob-Lo Island’s Columbia. Brother Saeed sailed in the Great Lakes and inland divisions. He was born in Arabia and sailed in the deck department. Brother Saeed’s final trip was with Cement Transit Company. He resides in Dearborn, Mich. This Month In SIU History Editor’s note: The following items are reprinted from previous editions of the Seafarers LOG. 1940 The constitution adopted in 1939 provided for the establishment of two separate districts: the Atlantic District and the Gulf District, with two separate headquarters, one in New York and one in New Orleans, and two separate bookkeeping and financial systems. The membership of the two districts, in a 30-day referendum vote, voted overwhelmingly to amalgamate the two districts. The amalgamation resolution which was adopted in August 1940 provides that the headquarters of the Atlantic and Gulf District will be in Washington, D.C., until the next election, and that all of the financial and bookkeeping work shall be done in that office. 1958 An eight percent increase in base wages and 30 cents per man per day additional contribution to the Vacation Plan are the highlights of an agreement on major contract items that has been reached between the SIU and its contracted operators. A memorandum of agreement that was signed on August 8, a few days after the start of negotiations, provided for several basic changes to take effect September 1, one month before the present contact expires. Basic terms of the settlement thus far reached with the shipowners: wages up eight percent; overtime up six percent; vacation payment increased 30 cents daily; five cents more per day for SIU health and safety programs; five cents more per day for SIU feeding program; improved room and meal allowances and other items yet to be negotiated. 1968 At the behest of the SIU and the Maritime Trades Department, the Democratic Party at its convention in Chicago pledged itself to work for an “aggressive and balanced” program for the revitalization of U.S.-flag shipping and shipbuilding. Meeting in their National Convention, the Democrats keyed their maritime plank to the “build-American” philosophy which has been the basic tenet of the AFL-CIO and the Maritime Trades Department. The Committee was told by O. William Moody, Jr., Administrator of the Maritime Trades Department and a spokesman for the SIU, that the U.S. Merchant Marine has been in a 20-year period of decline. “Official neglect and indifference,” Moody charged, has created a situation whereby nearly 95 percent of this country’s imports and exports are carried aboard ships of other nations instead of American-built, American-owned, and American-manned vessels. 1991 The complex embodying the Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship in Piney Point, Md., has been named the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education as a result of action taken by the institution’s Board of Trustees. The dedication of the Paul Hall Center was marked with a simple ceremony on August 20, the anniversary date of the birth of the late SIU president. In describing the naming of the Piney Point facility, Herbert Brand, chairman of the Transportation Institute and master of ceremonies for the event, called it “more than a dedication – it is an act of remembrance” for the man who headed the SIU from 1947 until his death in 1980. Seafarers LOG 17 7/25/2012 9:27:11 PM �Final Departures DEEP SEA JAMES BABSON Pensioner James Babson, 88, died March 4. Brother Babson began sailing with the Seafarers in 1951. He was born in North Carolina and worked in the engine department. Brother Babson’s earliest voyage was aboard the Longview Victory. Prior to his retirement in 1985, he shipped on the Cove Navigator. Brother Babson was a resident of Clayton, N.C. JAMES ELLIOT Pensioner James Elliot, 74, passed away April 13. Brother Elliot was born in Virginia. The deck department member joined the union in 1965. Brother Elliot initially sailed on the Steel Worker. His final voyage was aboard the Jade Phoenix. Brother Elliot retired in 2003 and called Elizabeth, N.J., home. HENRY GALICKI Pensioner Henry Galicki, 83, died March 5. Brother Galicki became an SIU member in 1952. He first sailed with Interocean American Shipping Corporation. Brother Galicki was a New Jersey native and a member of the steward department. Brother Galicki most recently sailed aboard the Humacao. He went on pension in 1992 and made his home in North Charleston, S.C. ALTHALO HENTON Pensioner Althalo Henton, 64, passed away March 2. Brother Henton signed on with the union in 1993. During his career he sailed aboard ships including the Equality State and the Charleston Express. Brother Henton worked in the deck department. He became a pensioner in 2010 and lived in his native state of Texas. 18 Seafarers LOG 11766_August.indd 18 FRANCISCO LATORRE Pensioner Francisco Latorre, 88, died March 22. Brother Latorre began sailing with the SIU in 1951. His first ship was the Benjamin Sillman; his last was the Stonewall Jackson. The deck department member was born in Panama. Brother Latorre started collecting his retirement compensation in 1990 and settled in Kenner, La. JOHN MCLAIN Pensioner John McLain, 66, passed away April 18. Brother McLain joined the union in 1968. He initially worked with Columbia Steamship Company as a member of the engine department. Brother McLain was a Pennsylvania native. His final trip to sea was on the Cape John. Brother McLain began receiving his pension in 1999 and called Philadelphia, Pa. home. WILLIAM TINDALE Pensioner William Tindale, 81, passed away March 8. Brother Tindale first donned the SIU colors in 1979. His earliest trip to sea was on the Ogden Traveler. Brother Tindale’s final ship was the Faust Liberty. He was born in Australia. Brother Tindale, a member of the deck department, lived in Miami Beach, Fla. RODERICK TINIO Brother Roderick Tinio, 36, died March 28. He became a Seafarer in 2010. Brother Tinio originally shipped on the Walter J. McCarthy. He sailed in the steward department. Brother Tinio last worked aboard the USNS Pililau. He was born in the Philippines but resided in Durham, N.C. INLAND ROBERT COOPER Pensioner Robert Cooper, 83, died April 8. Brother Cooper joined the SIU ranks 1961 while in the port of Philadelphia. He originally worked with Sheridan Transportation Company. Brother Cooper was born in Pennsylvania. Before his retirement on 1988, he shipped with McAllister Towing of Philadelphia. Brother CHEE CHENG Pensioner Chee Cheng, 96, passed away Feb. 21. Brother Cheng was born in China. He became a pensioner in 1981 and called New York home. EDWARD MCCALL Pensioner Edward McCall, 86, passed away Jan. 4. Brother McCall, a native of Lake Charles, La., went on pension in 1990. He called Port Arthur, Texas, home. JUAN DECLET Pensioner Juan Declet, 95, died Feb. 5. Brother Declet was a native of Puerto Rico. He began receiving his pension in 1970. Brother Declet resided in Astoria, N.Y. PABLO NEGRON Pensioner Pablo Negron, 86, died Jan. 30. Brother Negron was born in Salina, P.R. He started receiving his retirement compensation in 1972. Brother Negron lived in New Jersey. RODNEY DESVIGNES Pensioner Rodney Desvignes, 88, passed away Dec. 18. Brother Desvignes was born in Louisiana. He retired in 1972 and was a resident of Los Angeles. LUIS PADILLA Pensioner Luis Padilla, 73, passed away Jan. 20. Born in Puerto Rico, Brother Padilla became a pensioner in 1996. He made his home in Dundalk, Md. JOSEPH MUSCATO Pensioner Joseph Muscato, 91, died April 29. Brother Muscato started sailing with the SIU in 1977. A member of the steward department, he first shipped on the Montpelier Victory. Brother Muscato was a New York native. His final trip was with Crowley Towing & Transportation of Jacksonville. Brother Muscato became a pensioner in 1988 and made his home in Jacksonville, Fla. HERMON DIXSON Pensioner Hermon Dixson, 76, died Feb. 10. Brother Dixson was a Georgia native. He started collecting his pension in 1991 and settled in Jacksonville, Fla. KELLY REED Pensioner Kelly Reed, 90, died Feb. 5. Brother Reed was a native of Geiger, Ala. He went on pension in 1985 and settled in Port Arthur, Texas. IVAN DONK Pensioner Ivan Donk, 75, passed away Jan. 30. Brother Donk was born in Indonesia. He went on pension in 1999. Brother Donk made his home in Arlington, Wash. JAMES RUSSELL Pensioner James Russell, 85, passed away Jan. 1. Brother Russell was born in Davidson, N.C. He retired in 1988 and called Charlotte, N.C., home. FRANK OTTOFARO Pensioner Frank Ottofaro, 77, passed away March 14. Brother Ottofaro signed on with the union in 1962. He was born in Virginia. Brother Ottofaro was primarily employed with Chesapeake & Ohio Railway. He lived in Hampton, Va., and had recently retired. JOE EVERHART Pensioner Joe Everhart, 65, died Jan. 31. Born in Sinton, Texas, Brother Everhart became a pensioner in 2001. He lived in Corpus Christi, Texas. Cooper settled in Lewes, Del. RUDOLPH GRASSIA Pensioner Rudolph Grassia, 54, passed away March 12. Born in Pennsylvania, Brother Grassia joined the union in 1976. He sailed in both the inland and deep sea divisions. Brother Grassia initially shipped with Crowley Towing and Transportation of Jacksonville. The deck department member most recently worked aboard the Independence. Brother Grassia went on pension in 2003 and called Las Vegas home. Editor’s note: The following brothers, all former members of the National Maritime Union (NMU), have passed away. CANDIDO BADILLO Pensioner Candido Badillo, 83, passed away Feb. 15. Brother Badillo, a native of Puerto Rico, started collecting his retirement compensation in 1993. He continued to live in Puerto Rico. DAVID BLANCO Pensioner David Blanco, 73, died Dec. 21. The Puerto Rico-born mariner went on pension in 2003. He made his home in Orlando, Fla. CHANG FOOK Pensioner Chang Fook, 92, passed away Feb. 9. Brother Fook, a native of China, began receiving his retirement pay in 1971. He called New York home. ROBERT HOFFMAN Pensioner Robert Hoffman, 86, died Feb. 12. Brother Hoffman was born in New Jersey. He went on pension in 1996. Brother Hoffman made his home in Hazlet, N.J. ROBERT JONES Pensioner Robert Jones, 67, passed away Jan. 27. Born in New York, Brother Jones became a pensioner in 2000. He settled in Dover, Del. RICHARD LAWRENCE Pensioner Richard Lawrence, 84, died Feb. 17. Brother Lawrence was born in New Jersey. He retired in 1969 and was a resident of Dover, Del. WILLIAM SEPULVEDA Pensioner William Sepulveda, 77, died Jan. 14. Brother Sepulveda, a native of Puerto Rico, began collecting his pension in 1999. He was a resident of Ponce. GREGORY STAPLES Pensioner Gregory Staples, 56, passed away Jan. 14. Born in Weymouth, Mass., Brother Staples went on pension in 2011. He resided in Barrington, N.H. LAWYES VIDRINE Pensioner Lawyes Vidrine, 85, died Jan. 16. Brother Vidrine was a native of Louisiana. He became a pensioner in 1970 and lived in Mamou, La. EARL WESTBROOK Pensioner Earl Westbrook, 86, passed away Jan. 18. Brother Westbrook was born in Pennsylvania. He retired in 1985 and made his home in Pittsburg, Calif. AUGUSTINE YATES Pensioner Augustine Yates, 85, died Jan. 28. Brother Yates, a native of Honduras, started receiving his retirement pay in 1984. He settled in Deltona, Fla. August 2012 7/25/2012 9:27:12 PM �Digest of Shipboard Union Meetings BURNS HARBOR (American Steamship), April 28 – Chairman Michael Keogh, Secretary Dariusz Czepczynski, Educational Director Dean Parks, Deck Delegate Larry Skowroneck, Engine Delegate Richard Frederick. Crew discussed importance of voting in union election. New jobs on tug and barge were talked about. Mariners were reminded to start early on document renewals, especially if individuals have medical issues. Engine delegate reported overtime dispute that is being handled by the Joliet hall; no other beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew requested improved internet service. The Seafarers LOG attempts to print as many digests of union shipboard minutes as possible. On occasion, because of space limitations, some will be omitted. Ships’ minutes first are reviewed by the union’s contract department. Those issues requiring attention or resolution are addressed by the union upon receipt of the ships’ minutes. The minutes are then forwarded to the Seafarers LOG for publication. With Military Personnel Aboard the Liberty Pride Bosun Lionel Rivas (left in photo at immediate right) recently submitted these photos of Seafarers and U.S. military personnel aboard Liberty Maritime’s Liberty Pride in Kuwait. Shown in the photo below are ABs Roberto Zapata and Aman Mohamed. In the remaining photo, AB Dan Tennant (left) and Bosun Rivas (right) welcome military guests. H. LEE WHITE (American Steamship), April 30 – Chairman William Mulcahy, Secretary Joel Markle, Educational Director Mark MacRury, Deck Delegate Raymond Hotchkiss. Chairman reminded everyone to make sure all documents are up-to-date. Educational director encouraged crew members to upgrade at unionaffiliated school in Piney Point, Md. Deck delegate offered safety reminder concerning cables. Engine delegate provided a separate safety tip. No beefs or disputed OT reported. AMERICAN SPIRIT (American Steamship), May 31 – Chairman Paul Gohs, Secretary Joyce Sufak, Educational Director Asker Abubaker. Chairman distributed vessel information packets to crew. Educational director noted Paul Hall Center course listings from May LOG are posted on bulletin board. All mariners are encouraged to upgrade whenever possible. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew has question about Seafarers Money Purchase Pension Plan statement and will contact a Plan rep. They discussed extending all help available to reliefs who’ll be on board soon. BUFFALO (American Steamship), May 18 – Chairman Timothy Koebel, Secretary Walter Wise, Educational Director Ricardas Juska, Deck Delegate Kassim Ghaleb, Engine Delegate Yaser Mohamed. Chairman said DVD/VCR is now in the pipeline. He reported on conversation with Coast Guard marine safety office concerning sea-time requirements for STCW renewals. Also discussed final resolution between union and company concerning an overtime issue. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew read President Mike Sacco’s report from April LOG and agreed actions must be taken to stop outsourcing of American jobs. Crew suggested modification to all non-watchstanding jobs. Chairman encouraged everyone to attend shipboard union meetings. Crew thanked galley gang for job well done. They asked for a clarification on a potential jurisdictional issue. Next ports: Silver Bay, Minn., and Cleveland. SEALAND CHARGER (Maersk Line, Limited), May 26 – Chairman Robert Pagan, Secretary Alan Hollinger, Educational Director Andrew Linares, Deck Delegate Nagi Musaid. Chairman announced upcoming payoff and said it has been a good trip with no drama or b.s. He said port agent will meet ship upon arrival in Los Angeles. He reminded members to carry their TWIC cards during shore leave. He thanked steward department for job well done. Secretary also thanked galley gang SIU CIVMARS Deliver The Seafarers-crewed fleet replenishment oiler USNS Henry J. Kaiser (left) delivers a 50-50 blend of advanced biofuels and traditional petroleum-based fuel to the guided-missile cruiser USS Princeton during the Great Green Fleet demonstration portion of the Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) 2012 exercise. Members of the SIU Government Services Division sail aboard the Kaiser. In the background are the aircraft carrier USS Nimitz and the guided-missile destroyer USS Chung-Hoon. Twenty-two nations, more than 40 ships (including other Seafarers-crewed vessels) and submarines, more than 200 aircraft and 25,000 personnel are participating in the biennial RIMPAC exercise from June 29 to Aug. 3, in and around the Hawaiian Islands. (U.S. Navy photo by Seaman Apprentice Ryan J. Mayes) August 2012 11766_August.indd 19 and reminded fellow members to keep their dues current and their documents, endorsements and training record books up-to-date. Educational director encouraged mariners to upgrade at union-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Next ports: Los Angeles and Oakland, Calif. FREEDOM (Crowley), May 6 – Chairman Timothy Fitzgerald, Secretary Frank Starling, Educational Director Tusif Ahmed, Deck Delegate Milan Taigan, Engine Delegate Edward Shamburger, Steward Delegate Betty Cooper. Chairman reported a job well done by everyone aboard. Payoff scheduled to take place in Baltimore. Secretary reminded mariners to leave rooms clean and leave new linen for reliefs. Educational director reminded everyone to keep documents current and also noted Paul Hall Center annual course guide was published in January LOG. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew passed motion requesting compensation for dry-docking in certain ports. New washer and dryer are needed along with satellite phone. Next port: Baltimore. INDIANA HARBOR (American Steamship), May 29 – Chairman Scott Krajniak, Secretary Maccine Bell, Educational Director Daryl Overby, Deck Delegate Terry Pyrlik. Chairman reminded crew to check document expiration dates and to make sure to register at the hall you ship from within 72 hours of signing off. He discussed the importance of contributing to SPAD and MDL. Secretary reminded crew to clean rooms and leave clean linens for reliefs. Educational director encouraged mariners to upgrade at union-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Next port: Indiana Harbor. MAERSK GEORGIA (Maersk Line, Limited), May 19 – Chair- man Konstantinos Prokovas, Secretary Darryl Goggins, Educational Director Tomas Merel. Crew discussed clarification that was received from headquarters. Chairman thanked crew for safe voyage. Secretary reminded fellow mariners to make sure rooms are clean and leave clean linen. Educational director encouraged everyone to upgrade at Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Votes of thanks given to deck and engine gangs. Members asked for clarification on transportation reimbursement. Next port: Charleston, S.C. ST. CLAIR (American Steamship), May 28 – Chairman Mohamed H. Mohamed, Secretary Michael Ingram, Educational Director Donald Jaegle, Deck Delegate Marc Tantre. Chairman encouraged everyone to keep ship clean and to talk about safety. If you see anything unsafe, bring it to his attention. Secretary reminded crew to leave fresh linen for reliefs. Educational director encouraged crew to take advantage of courses available at Paul Hall Center. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew suggested modification for vacation-pay schedule. They thanked steward department for good work. USNS HENSON (3PSC), May 13 – Chairman Mark Grzegorczyk, Secretary Marlon Battad, Educational Director Kevin Lewis, Deck Delegate Andrzej Bronkowski, Engine Delegate Dario Dizon, Steward Delegate Salvador Deguzman. Chairman said crew has several procedural and contractual questions that are being addressed. Treasurer reported $260 in ship’s fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Engine delegate noted gym equipment cable is damaged. Crew discussed how to use and build up vessel’s fund. Next port: Busan, Korea. Seafarers LOG 19 7/25/2012 9:27:16 PM �Letters To The Editor Letters may be edited for conciseness and clarity. Submissions may be mailed to 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746 or emailed to webmaster@seafarers.org. Unions and Informed Citizens Keys to Economic Recovery Honoring WWII Mariners Thanks to Thomas S. Brown for his recent letter to the editor, headlined, “The value of unions.” He is right on target. The American working public must decide who will best represent them and then must vote accordingly. We had elections two years ago and voted a lot of new faces into office; I, for one, am having reservations as to the wisdom of this action. Today there is an awful battle going on between the working class and the would-be ruling class. We’re hearing from the right that unions (organized labor) are creating the problem. As an independent voter, I wholeheartedly disagree with this. What we really have is a battle going on between the working class and corporate greed! Having been a member of organized labor for 55 years, I will be the first to admit that unions may have their faults, but in the end they are the voice of working people. Unions, like our government, are no better or worse than their constituents or, if you will, their members or voters. It has taken us 235 years to reach this place in history, and I’m certain that we will not recover from this dark economic hole overnight. It’s my opinion that what we’re dealing with is an uninformed citizenry. We appear so near the brink that it may take the hand of providence to salvage our nation. Respectfully, Earl Herring MM&P Retiree Beverly Hills, Florida Scholarship Winner Puts Grant to Good Use My name is Benjamin Wilmoth and I received the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan scholarship for $20,000 in 2008. I recently graduated from the University of Florida with a Bachelor of Science degree in advertising, and it is due in large part to your gift. Across the street here in Gloucester, Mass., is a World War II memorial. I always attend the Memorial Day ceremony there, and also make it a must to stop by the mariners’ memorial. This year, Amvets Post 32 along with the Disabled American Veterans Chapter 74 (I’m a member of both) laid wreaths at the WWII seamen’s memorial. A good friend, Carole Dagle, took it upon herself to plant flowers. In the near future, her husband, Tom, and I are planning to scrape and repaint the anchor. Thanks for considering placing the photo in the LOG. I believe those men deserve the honor, don’t you? Recent graduate Benjamin Wilmoth (left) and his father, QMED Wendell Wilmoth, celebrate Benjamin’s degree from the University of Florida. Sal Gilardi SIU Retiree Gloucester, Massachusetts I just wanted to say thank you for the support you provided over the last four years. Benjamin Wilmoth Plantation, Florida Big Investment in Long Beach As many of your readers know, the port of Long Beach, Calif., is the second-largest port in the United States, behind only Los Angeles. What probably is news to most Seafarers, though, is that the port has just signed a 40-year lease for its “Middle Harbor Project.” That’s a $4.6 billion agreement – not exactly chump change. It is expected to double cargo movement at the port and create thousands of jobs. When the expanded Panama Canal opens in about two years, even it won’t be able to handle the largest ships, but Long Beach will. Richard J. McConnell SIU Retiree Long Beach, California Retiree Sal Gilardi stands next to the mariners’ memorial. The inscription reads, “With Thanks From The People Of Gloucester To Our Sons Who Served As Merchant Mariners, 1941-1945.” Know Your Rights FINANCIAL REPORTS. The Constitution of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU makes specific provision for safeguarding the membership’s money and union finances. The constitution requires a detailed audit by certified public accountants every year, which is to be submitted to the membership by the secretary-treasurer. A yearly finance committee of rank-and-file members, elected by the membership, each year examines the finances of the union and reports fully their findings and recommendations. Members of this committee may make dissenting reports, specific recommendations and separate findings. TRUST FUNDS. All trust funds of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU are administered in accordance with the provisions of various trust fund agreements. All these agreements specify that the trustees in charge of these funds shall equally consist of union and management representatives and their alternates. All expenditures and disbursements of trust funds are made only upon approval by a majority of the trustees. All trust fund financial records are available at the headquarters of the various trust funds. SHIPPING RIGHTS. A member’s shipping rights and seniority are protected exclusively by contracts between the union and the employers. Members should get to know their shipping rights. Copies of these contracts are posted and available in all union halls. If members believe there have been violations of their shipping or seniority rights as contained in the contracts between the union and the employers, they should notify the Seafarers Appeals Board by certified mail, return receipt requested. The 20 Seafarers LOG 11766_August.indd 20 proper address for this is: Augustin Tellez, Chairman Seafarers Appeals Board 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 Full copies of contracts as referred to are available to members at all times, either by writing directly to the union or to the Seafarers Appeals Board. CONTRACTS. Copies of all SIU contracts are available in all SIU halls. These contracts specify the wages and conditions under which an SIU member works and lives aboard a ship or boat. Members should know their contract rights, as well as their obligations, such as filing for overtime (OT) on the proper sheets and in the proper manner. If, at any time, a member believes that an SIU patrolman or other union official fails to protect their contractual rights properly, he or she should contact the nearest SIU port agent. EDITORIAL POLICY — THE SEAFARERS LOG. The Seafarers LOG traditionally has refrained from publishing any article serving the political purposes of any individual in the union, officer or member. It also has refrained from publishing articles deemed harmful to the union or its collective membership. This established policy has been reaffirmed by membership action at the September 1960 meetings in all constitutional ports. The responsibility for Sea­farers LOG policy is vested in an editorial board which consists of the executive board of the union. The executive board may delegate, from among its ranks, one individual to carry out this responsibility. PAYMENT OF MONIES. No monies are to be paid to anyone in any official capacity in the SIU unless an official union receipt is given for same. Under no circumstances should any member pay any money for any reason unless he is given such receipt. In the event anyone attempts to require any such payment be made without supplying a receipt, or if a member is required to make a payment and is given an official receipt, but feels that he or she should not have been required to make such payment, this should immediately be reported to union headquarters. CONSTITUTIONAL RIGHTS AND OBLIGATIONS. Copies of the SIU Constitution are available in all union halls. All members should obtain copies of this constitution so as to familiarize themselves with its contents. Any time a member feels any other member or officer is attempting to deprive him or her of any constitutional right or obligation by any methods, such as dealing with charges, trials, etc., as well as all other details, the member so affected should immediately notify headquarters. EQUAL RIGHTS. All members are guaranteed equal rights in employment and as members of the SIU. These rights are clearly set forth in the SIU Constitution and in the contracts which the union has negotiated with the employers. Conse­quently, no member may be discriminated against because of race, creed, color, sex, national or geographic origin. If any member feels that he or she is denied the equal rights to which he or she is entitled, the member should notify union headquarters. SEAFARERS POLITICAL ACTIVITY DONATION (SPAD). SPAD is a separate segregated fund. Its proceeds are used to further its objects and purposes including, but not limited to, furthering the political, social and economic interests of maritime workers, the preservation and furthering of the American merchant marine with improved employment opportunities for seamen and boatmen and the advancement of trade union concepts. In connection with such objects, SPAD supports and contributes to political candidates for elective office. All contributions are voluntary. No contribution may be solicited or received because of force, job discrimination, financial reprisal, or threat of such conduct, or as a condition of membership in the union or of employment. If a contribution is made by reason of the above improper conduct, the member should notify the Seafarers International Union or SPAD by certified mail within 30 days of the contribution for investigation and appropriate action and refund, if involuntary. A member should support SPAD to protect and further his or her economic, political and social interests, and American trade union concepts. NOTIFYING THE UNION — If at any time a member feels that any of the above rights have been violated, or that he or she has been denied the constitutional right of access to union records or information, the member should immediately notify SIU President Michael Sacco at headquarters by certified mail, return receipt requested. The address is: Michael Sacco, President Seafarers International Union 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746. August 2012 7/25/2012 9:27:19 PM �Paul Hall Center Upgrading Course Information The following is the schedule of courses at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md., for the next few months. All programs are geared to improving the job skills of Seafarers and to promoting the American maritime industry. Please note that this schedule may change to reflect the needs of the membership, the maritime industry and—in times of conflict—the nation’s security. Students attending any of these classes should check in the Saturday before their course’s start date. The courses listed here will begin promptly on the morning of the start dates. For classes ending on a Friday, departure reservations should be made for Saturday. Seafarers who have any questions regarding the upgrading courses offered at the Paul Hall Center may call the admissions office at (301) 994-0010. Title of Start Date of Course Date Completion Deck Department Able Seaman August 4 August 31 October 13 November 9 ARPA October 27 November 2 ECDIS September 29 October 5 December 8 December 14 GMDSS November 24 December 7 Lifeboatman/Water Survival August 18 August 31 September 15 September 28 October 13 October 26 November 11 November 23 December 8 December 21 Radar Observer October 13 October 26 Radar Renewal (One day) August 13 August 13 November 6 November 6 STOS September 15 September 28 Basic Auxiliary Plant Operations (BAPO) September 15 October 12 November 10 December 7 FOWT August 18 September 14 October 13 November 9 Junior Engineer August 25 October 19 Machinist August 18 September 7 October 20 Welding September 15 October 5 October 20 November 9 November 24 December 14 UPGRADING APPLICATION Name_________________________________________________________________________ Address_______________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________ Telephone (Home)_________________________ (Cell)_________________________ Date of Birth___________________________________________________________________ Deep Sea Member o Lakes Member o Inland Waters Member o If the following information is not filled out completely, your application will not be processed. Social Security #_______________________ Book #__________________________________ Seniority_____________________________ Department_____________________________ Home Port____________________________________________________________________ E-mail_______________________________________________________________________ Endorsement(s) or License(s) now held_____________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________ Are you a graduate of the SHLSS/PHC trainee program? o Yes o No If yes, class #___________________________________________________________________ Have you attended any SHLSS/PHC upgrading courses? o Yes o No If yes, course(s) taken____________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________ With this application, COPIES of the following must be sent: One hundred and twenty-five (125) days seatime for the previous year, one day in the last six months prior to the date your class starts, USMMD (z-card) front and back or relevant pages of merchant mariner credential, front page of your union book indicating your department and seniority, qualifying seatime for the course if it is Coast Guard tested, 1995 STCW Certificate, valid SHBP Clinic Card and TWIC. 11766_August.indd 21 Start Date Date of Completion Steward Department Chief Steward October 13 November 23 Serve Safe September 29 October 5 Chief Cook These modules start every other week. The next class begins August 13. Galley Operations/Advanced Galley Operations These modules start every Monday. The next classes will begin August 6. Safety Courses Advanced Firefighting September 15 September 21 September 22 September 28 October 27 November 2 December 1 December 7 Basic Firefighting/STCW August 11 August 17 September 15 September 21 October 13 October 19 November 3 November 9 December 1 December 7 Government Vessels August 18 August 24 September 29 October 5 November 24 November 30 Medical Care Provider August 4 August 10 September 22 September 28 September 29 October 5 November 3 November 9 December 8 December 14 Tank PIC Barge December 8 December 14 The National Maritime Center (NMC), the licensing authority for the U.S. Coast Guard, offers a comprehensive website covering mariner credentialing, medical guidelines and much more. The site features a wide range of applications and forms, deck- and engine-department exam information, lists of Coast Guard-approved courses and more. Seafarers are encouraged to check out the site at:http://www. uscg.mil/nmc/ Mariners may call the NMC at 1-888-IASKNMC (1-888-427-5662). Operational hours are 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. EST, Monday through Friday. (The NMC is closed for all federal holidays.) Various email forms also are available through the NMC website. December 14 Pumpman September 8 September 21 August 2012 NMC Website Provides Useful Mariner Resources Engine Department Marine Electrician Title of Course Important Notice Students who have registered for classes at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, but later discover - for whatever reason - that they can’t attend, should inform the admissions department immediately so arrangements can be made to have other students take their places. COURSE ____________________________ START DATE _______________ DATE OF COMPLETION _______________________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________________ LAST VESSEL: ___________________________________ Rating: ____________________ Date On: _______________________________ Date Off:____________________________ SIGNATURE ____________________________________ DATE______________________ NOTE: Transportation will be paid in accordance with the scheduling letter only if you present original receipts and successfully complete the course. If you have any questions, contact your port agent before departing for Piney Point. Not all classes are reimbursable.Return completed application to: Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education Admissions Office, P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674-0075; or fax to (301) 994-2189. The Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education is a private, non-profit, equal opportunity institution and admits students, who are otherwise qualified, of any race, nationality or sex. The school complies with applicable laws with regard to admission, access or treatment of students in its programs or activities. 8/12 Seafarers LOG 21 7/25/2012 9:27:19 PM �Paul Hall Center Classes Unlicensed Apprentice Water Survival Class 754 – Twenty-four Phase I unlicensed apprentices completed their requirements in this course Dec. 23. Those graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Antonio Anderson, Mario Botelho, Vincent Burton, Carmelo Calderon, Seadon Gastaldo, Bobbie Gibbs, Joseph Hernandez, Bill Hunt, Orakwue Ikegwu, Hamza Jinah, Bonnie Kropolinsky-Hinkle, Todd Lander, Ryan Lindsoe, Clifton Medley III, Yousef Mohamed, Robert Neff, Gary Newbegin Jr., Michael Robinson, Jorge Roman, Ervin Sadler, Corey Sanders, Benjamin Smith, Freddie Taylor and Joshua Weiner. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Welding – Seven Seafarers finished the enhancement of their skills in this course June 22. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Donald Bishop, Sean Branch, Karen Laycock, Ronie Llave, Kelly Mayo, Roosevelt Osborne and Zaza Tchitanava. Buzzy Andrews, their instructor, is at the far right. Unlicensed Apprentice Water Survival Class 760 – The following individuals (above, in alphabetical order) graduated from this course June 8: Charles Elam, William Elam, Noel Fedee, David Garrett, Sean Geddie, Arvin Heras, Michael Hunnicutt, Chase Knisley, Fredrick Kotoku-Sackson, Orvin Mejia, Robert Navarro, Royle Payne, Clinton Perrett, Edwin Salada and Christopher Wing. (Note: Not all are pictured.) GMDSS – Eight upgraders finished their requirements in this course June 22. Those graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Ahmed Abolela, Secundino Arzu, Scott Bowmer, Brandon Braam, Daniel Fields, Ryan Legario, Michael Paiko and Whitney Sheridan. Class Instructor Brad Wheeler is at the far right. Certified Chief Cook – Three members of the steward department completed this course in June. Graduating and receiving their certifications (above from left to right) were: Teresa Barrera, Junior Reyes and Yvonne Feltham. BAPO – The following upgraders and unlicensed apprentices (above, in alphabetical order) graduated from this course June 22: Justin Biggerstaff, Dennis Blake, Justin Bly, Christian Byrant, Jared Cabasug, Alexander Capellan, Vasil Cholakovski, Earl Dimmick, Scott Doxey, Cody Fox, Eric Garcia, Eser Kaptan, Yahya Mohamed, Lucas Osborn, Joshua Schwarz, James Sloan, Deralle Watson and Frederick Wright. Tim Achorn, their instructor, is at the far right. Able Seaman – Seventeen individuals completed their training in this course June 8. Those graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Jerry Aquino, Terence Brennan, James Burnett Jr., Talib Cherry, Joherky Concepcion, John Diaz-Hernandez, Jeffrey Gleason, Warren Gorman, Kelly Krick, Robert Mackey, Michael Paiko, Angela Porter, Nathan Shuford, Patrick Slade, Kevin Sykes, Zachary Thibeault and Steven Whiting. Class Instructor Tom Truitt is standing second from the left. Basic & Advanced Fire Fighting – Twelve upgraders finished this course June 8. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Xavier Alfaro, James Armer, Brandon Braam, James Davis, Bill Dowzicky, Thomas Moore, Stacy Murphy, Anwar Muthala, Whitney Sheridan, Richard Trovillo, Louis Valencia and Christopher Vincenzo. Class Instructor Wayne Johnson is at the far right. BST – Twenty Seafarers completed their training in this course June 29. Graduating from the five-day curriculum (above, in alphabetical order) were: Ricky Arroyo, Jose Ayon-Ayon, Zaldy Bacarisas, Robert Borchester, Clayton Byrd, Oscar Catabay, John Dacuag, James Driggers, Trevor Gray, Charles Hammester Jr., Donna Hickman, Gregory Jones, Worlise Knowles, Alton Lupton, Robin Majette, Arthur Marshall, John Palughi, Gary Ramirez, Jason Schoenstein and Connie Tarplin. Wayne Johnson, their instructor, is standing at the far left in the back row. 22 Seafarers LOG 11766_August.indd 22 August 2012 7/25/2012 9:27:23 PM �Paul Hall Center Classes Medical Care Provider – Nine upgraders graduated from this course June 15. Completing their requirements (left, in alphabetical order) were: Janos Bognar, Eric Kjellberg, Anwar Muthala, Thomas Swayne Jr., Richard Trovillo, Louis Valencia, Christopher Vincenzo, and Joseph Waller Jr. Class Instructors Wayne Johnson Jr., and Mark Cates is at the far left and far right respectively. Important Notice Students who have registered for classes at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, but later discover - for whatever reason - that they can’t attend, should inform the admissions department immediately so arrangements can be made to have other students take their places. Marine Electrician – Twelve Seafarers completed the enhancement of their skills in this course June 29. Those graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Johnathyn Bland, Chris Ceyzyk, Kevin Daughtry, Alonzo Griswell, Dwight Hunt, Gregorio Orara Jr., Emma Porter, Jason Powell, Timothy Sexton, Scott Thompson, Allen Ward and Ronald Westerfield. Jay Henderson, their instructor, is third from the left in the back row. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Government Vessels – The following upgraders (above, in alphabetical order) graduated from this course June 22: Ricky Arroyo, Jose Ayon-Ayon, Kenneth Benton, Janos Bognar, Jose Bonita, John Dacuag, James Davis, Johnny Dozier, Donna Hickman, Fabian Jefferson, John Palughl, Mykola Smirnov, Diomedes Vigo and Papa Yankeh. Class Instructor Tom Truitt is standing at the far right in the second row. Fast Rescue Boat – Nine Seafarers completed their training in this course June 29. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Steven Blair, Douglas Covil, Gregory Dodds, Thomas Griffin, Nathaniel Jennings, Karen Laycock, Michael Paiko, Mykola Smirnov and Richard Trovillo. Stan Beck, their instructor, is standing at the far left. BST (Hawaii) – Seventeen individuals completed this course June 23 at the Seafarers Training Facility in Barbers Point, Hawaii. Graduating (above, in no particular order) were: Anthony Bloch, Leslie Burris, Jonathan Copeland, Genaro De Leon, Steven Fairbairn, Blair Feole, Robert Gillis, Deanne Glascoe, Sarah Klenotic, William Kulanthaisamy, Derek Purcell, James Reiske, Brittany Minor, Marlon Sartin, Chad Wheeler, Ronnel Sugui and Byron Seward. August 2012 11766_August.indd 23 ARPA – Five individuals completed their requirements in this course June 8. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Ahmed Abolela, Eric Kjellberg, Ryan Legario, Michael Moore and Mark Rivers. BST (Hawaii) – The following individuals (above, in no particular order) finished their requirements in this course June 30 in Barbers Point, Hawaii: Ruel Tan Alivio, Rumor Baker, Christoper Bantog , Matthew Bonafe, Yadram Chintoman, Velma Clarke, FNU Ihya, Kenneth John, Raven Taylor, Edward Velez, Sarah Neelis, David Pellegreene, Kelmund Pellumbi, Rachel Reid, Lesly Richard, Senaida Rodriguez, Gary Slighter, Mark Teves, Robert Binyatov and Gabrielle Martinez. Seafarers LOG 23 7/25/2012 9:27:28 PM �Volume 74, Number 8 August 2012 Paul Hall Center Course Dates Page 21 Protect Your Right To VOTE Dozens Of States Over The Years Have Passed Restrictive Voter ID Laws And Other Voter Containment Measures That Could Disenfranshise Millions Of Eligible Voters, Mostly People Of Color, Young Voters And Senior Citizens. You Could Be One Of Them! Don’t Take The Chance Of Having Your Voice Silenced At the Polls! Go Online And Utilize The Following Resources To Ensure That Your Fundamental Freedom To Vote Is Not Denied: n Nonprofit Vote http://www.nonprofitvote.org/ n Know Your Rights In Your State http://www.aflcio.org/Legislation-and-Politics/Voters-Rights/Know-Your-Rights-in-Your-State n Voter Registration In Your State http://www.aflcio.org/Legislation-and-Politics/Voters-Rights/Voter-Registration/ n Check Your Voter Registration Status http://www.vote411.org/ VOTE ! 11766_August_X.indd 24 7/26/2012 6:16:10 PM � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Seafarers Log Issues 2010-2019 Description An account of the resource Volumes LXXII-LXXXI of the Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Seafarers Log Digital Copies Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 2010-2019 Document A resource containing textual data. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre text. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource August 2012 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES OCEAN GIANT HOISTS STARS AND STRIPES SIU-CREWED SHIPS EARN TOP SAFETY AWARDS ADMIRAL PAPP: COAST GUARD APPRECIATES PROFESSIONALISM OF AMERICAN MARINERS GIANT ADDITION: HEAVY-LIFT SHIP JOINS SIU FLEET HARLEY MARINE CREWS RATIFY 3-YEAR CONTRACT MEMBERS APPROVE CROWLEY CONTRACT CONGRESSMEN VOICE SUPPORT FOR JONES ACT EXTENDED EXPIRATION DATE TWIC AVAILABLE BEGINNING AUGUST 30 USNS RAPPAHANNOCK FIRES AFTER BOAT IGNORES WARNINGS LONGTIME LABOR RELATIONS ADVOCATE TOM MURPHY PASSES AWAY AT AGE 75 SEALIFT, INC. AWARDED NEW CONTRACT FOR CHARTER OF MV BERNARD FISHER PIRACY STUDY GIVES EXTENSIVE DETAILS ABOUT DANGERS FACED BY MARINERS ITF REPORT EXPOSES ‘BLACK SEA OF SHAME’ MILITARY LEADERS BACK LAW OF SEA TREATY UNITED SEAMAN’S SERVICE ANNOUNCES RECIPIENTS OF 2012 AOTOS AWARDS UNION BIDS EMOTIONAL FAREWELL TO CHIEF BOSUN TOMMY SORESI HIGH COURT FINDS AFFORDABLE CARE ACT CONSTITUTIONAL LABOR FEDERATION PUSHES ‘BRING JOBS HOME ACT’ SCHOOL ADDS MORE HIGH-TECH TRAINING TOOLS Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Seafarers Log Digital Copies Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 08/01/2012 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Newsprint Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context Vol. 74, No. 8 http://www.seafarerslog.org/archives/files/original/1ca9d80385b022d930f42e87ec18628a.pdf 8f54a7fe8b6c2a06043cee8c9d97fe3e PDF Text Text Volume 74, Number 9 September 2012 American Phoenix Lands in SIU Fleet Seafarers Sail Aboard New Jones Act Tanker The double-hulled tanker American Phoenix (above, in Mobile, Ala.) is a recent addition to the SIU-contracted fleet. The first SIU crew members aboard the Jones Act vessel included (group photo, first row, from left) AB Daniel Laitinen, OMU Laura Hollar, AB Luis Garcia, OMU John Cacella, (back) AB Wilmer Herrera, AB Victor Chevalier, Bosun Samuel Duah, AB Edward Gavagan, OMU Moriah Collier and QMED Kelly Mayo. Page 3. Union Backs Workers Stand for America Rally Dozens of SIU members, officials, and apprentices from the Paul Hall Center were among the approximately 40,000 people who gathered in Philadelphia Aug. 11 for a peaceful but powerful demonstration promoting America’s working families. Part of the SIU contingent is pictured below. Pages 12-13. SIU Gains Jobs Aboard MSC’s USNS Wheeler CIVMAR News Page 2 11767_Log.indd 1 The USNS Wheeler (above) and its support ship, the Fast Tempo, recently were added to the SIU-crewed fleet as Interocean American Shipping won the government bid to operate the vessels. Page 3. DOL Honors Paul Hall Center Page 4 SIU Election Update Pages 4, 6, 7 8/23/2012 10:04:32 AM �President’s Report What it Means to be Union When it comes to the general public’s perception of the labor movement, one of the most accurate – and most sobering – descriptions I’ve read said that we’re living in a period of “historical amnesia.” That phrase was used in an opinion piece by a history professor who went on to remind readers about organized labor’s hard-won benefits that lift all workers, not just union members, and about why our nation needs a viable labor movement. Within our own ranks, it’s no secret that we need to do a better job of telling our story to fellow citizens and to the politicians whose decisions affect our livelihoods. In many ways I’m reminded of a long-time lament in the maritime industry: Why don’t more people know about us? But while we readily acknowledge that we have to do more to spread the word about workers’ rights, it doesn’t help when governors unfairly attack collective bargaining, or when employers routinely get away with breaking the law in representation elections, or when blowhards in certain segments of the media and even in Congress try to blame working people for the damage done by Wall Street and corporate CEOs. That’s not to say we never hit the mark in setting the record straight. One of the times we really made an impact was with our “from the people who brought you the weekend” ad campaign. It’s more than a clever saying – it’s an accurate reflection of the fair treatment we fight for every day. There has also been a potential silver lining to state-level attacks on collective bargaining that have taken place in recent years. The public debates that are happening on the heels of those attacks have helped educate people about why collective bargaining exists, how it benefits union and unrepresented workers alike, and how communities with a strong union workforce enjoy greater productivity and higher living standards. In any poll that doesn’t come from Fox News, a solid majority of Americans now say that everyone should have the right to join a union and bargain for a better life. We have to capitalize on those feelings by explaining what it means to be a union member. And this effort isn’t limited to op-eds or TV advertising or marketing campaigns. It starts with each rank-and-file member, and on that note I encourage all Seafarers to take every opportunity to talk to your friends and neighbors about what we stand for. I’m not asking you to buy radio ads, but when the chances present themselves in general conversations, social settings, community activities – wherever – stand up for your union and your movement. We have a lot to be proud of, in the SIU specifically and in the union movement as a whole. We stand for freedom and democracy and the American Dream. We stand for rewarding an honest day’s work with an honest day’s pay. We want our contracted companies to succeed – and we want to ensure that everyone who helps generate that success is rewarded, not just in the executive board room but also on the factory floor. As we’ve shown in our union, we also are willing to sacrifice in order to help our companies through tough times. Brothers and sisters, we have a lot to offer, and our nation as a whole has a lot to gain if we’re successful in spreading the word about what it really means to say, “Union Yes!” We can start right now, by making sure we’re registered to vote on Election Day, by supporting pro-worker candidates, helping get out the vote, and then holding the winners accountable for all the promises they made. It may sound tiresome to say our future is at stake, but if we don’t succeed, that historical amnesia will worsen, and the resulting conditions will undo decades and decades of workers’ rights that literally were secured with blood, sweat and tears. Please keep that in mind with Election Day on the horizon, and don’t be afraid to speak up – politely but firmly – the next time you hear or read attacks on our way of life. Because ultimately, what we stand for is fairness, decency, solidarity and productivity for all working people and their families. Those things are worth defending, at sea and ashore. Volume 74, Number 9 September 2012 The SIU online: www.seafarers.org The Seafarers LOG (ISSN 1086-4636) is published monthly by the Seafarers International Union; Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU, AFLCIO; 5201 Auth Way; Camp Springs, MD 20746. Telephone (301) 899-0675. Periodicals postage paid at Southern Maryland 20790-9998. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to the Seafarers LOG, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. Communications Director, Jordan Biscardo; Managing Editor/Production, Jim Guthrie; Assistant Editor, Brian Ahern; Photographer, Harry Gieske; Administrative Support, Misty Dobry. Copyright © 2012 Seafarers International Union, AGLIWD. All Rights Reserved. The Seafarers International Union engaged an environmentally friendly printer for the production of this newspaper. 2 Seafarers LOG 11767_Log.indd 2 CMPI 610 Negotiations Conclude Unions, MSC Await SECNAV Approval; Instruction Roll-Out Planned This article is part of a series describing the Civilian Marine Personnel Instruction (CMPI) 610 negotiations covering the hours of work and premium pay Instruction for CIVMARS working aboard Military Sealift Command (MSC) vessels. As noted previously, this Instruction does not impact CIVMAR base wages. The Instruction covers only what CIVMARS earn when working during overtime, premium and penalty time aboard MSC vessels. The SIU and MSC recently completed negotiations over CMPI 610. The completion of negotiations marks the culmination of a roughly 24-month process in which the two parties engaged in a series of negotiating sessions using the interest-based bargaining (IBB) method. Also participating in these negotiations were unlicensed CIVMARS who served as subject matter experts. CIVMARS attended negotiations in person and also participated in the talks via conference call and written surveys. CIVMAR comments and suggestions throughout the negotiation process were extremely helpful, bringing the most up-to-date shipboard experience to the attention of the negotiators, and their comments helped to frame the new work rules. Concurrent negotiations between MSC, the Marine Engineers’ Beneficial Association (MEBA) and the International Organization of Masters, Mates & Pilots (MM&P), the unions representing the agency’s licensed CIVMARS, also have concluded. MSC Commander Rear Admiral Mark Buzby delivered the completed Instruction to the Office of Civilian Human Resources (OCHR) who must review and approve the document for the Secretary of the Navy. The parties hope for a swift approval process in order to meet an October implementation date. As the negotiations concluded, the parties conducted a thorough financial analysis to ensure, as accurately as possible, that the financial negotiation goals noted below would be met. Much earlier, at the start of negotiations, the parties adopted detailed ground rules and goals to guide them through the difficult and complicated bargaining and implementation process. Additionally, as this is the first time in a quarter century that the entire Instruction has been revised, certain protections were agreed to and will go into effect as the Instruction is implemented. Both of these topics are discussed in greater detail below. Negotiation Goals The goals of the negotiations were to: 1. Ensure that CIVMARS would be fairly compensated by the new work rules; 2. Ensure that the changes would be cost-neutral for MSC. This means that MSC would not have to pay much more money to implement the rule changes or save significant amounts of money by cutting pay through work rule changes; 3. Develop work rules that would be applied fairly and consistently on every vessel; 4. Streamline the Instruction, to delete repetitive, confusing and inconsistent language that was found throughout the previous Instruction. 5. Develop work rules covering unlicensed CIVMARS which could be applied whenever possible to both coasts; and 6. Develop a document that is easy to read and allows CIVMARS to find the information they are looking for quickly and efficiently. Program Protections The protections built into the implementation of the new CMPI 610 include reviewing CIVMAR feedback and other shipboard documents as well as evaluating payrolls in a timely manner to ensure that CIVMAR wages have not been impacted significantly – in a negative or positive way, or in a way that was not anticipated by the parties. The SIU and MSC have also agreed to meet yearly to review the financial impact of the rules for the next five years. As in the previous CMPI 610 there is a mechanism to dispute or grieve a situation where a CIVMAR believes he or she has not been paid accurately for the overtime or premium pay work performed. There will also be a process to advise the union and the agency if a CIVMAR believes that a specific work rule has resulted in significant pay loss. Once this is brought to the attention of the union and MSC, the parties will reconvene to determine whether the new rule creating the impact needs to be revised. The new rules will have to be implemented for several months before CIVMARS, the SIU and MSC will be able to determine whether there is a significant impact one way or the other. This is be- cause premium pay varies from vessel to vessel. Additionally, while a few of the old rules which have been eliminated may diminish pay under certain circumstances, this change may be offset by new rules which will now provide pay to CIVMARS for previously uncompensated work. CIVMAR comments and financial data will help the parties with this evaluation. Layout and Organization of New CMPI 610 While the new CMPI 610 still contains a majority of the rules in the old Instruction, overall the newly negotiated Instruction is noticeably shorter. CIVMARS will find that the language is much more concise compared to the previous Instruction. The new CMPI 610 is user-friendly and logically organized. It is designed to enable the reader to quickly and definitively answer practically any question regarding a CIVMAR’s hours of work and premium pay. The new CMPI 610 is also organized in a way that is entirely different from the previous Instruction. The new CMPI 610 is now organized by type of work or work event rather than by department and sailing coast. While it may take some time for CIVMARS to adjust to the new format, the document itself is more cohesive and understandable. For example, one major section deals with premium pay associated with moving cargo. This section covers scenarios when any CIVMAR, regardless of department, handles or moves any type of item deemed to be cargo. In the previous document, pay provisions regarding cargo were located in several different sections. This required a review of multiple pages and referring to several sections to analyze the cargo work rules. Many CIVMARS advised negotiators that the language could be confusing and contradictory. In response to those concerns, negotiators included all language pertaining to a specific rule or evolution of work into a specific section. The document now contains a detailed, cross-referenced index which will help CIVMARS quickly locate any CMPI 610-related information they need. CMPI 610 Roll-Out and Training While negotiations are complete, work must be done to ensure a successful implementation period. As with any new program, there will be many questions. It is expected that full implementation of the Instruction will commence on Oct. 7, 2012 at which time the new provisions will take effect. While the parties wait for final approval, the SIU and MSC have begun planning the roll-out training sessions and writing the educational materials for the new Instruction. Some CMPI 610 negotiators will be will be visiting ships and the East and West Coast CIVMAR Support Units (CSUs) to educate the fleet about the changes and to answer questions. The parties are in the process of producing a DVD which explains the changes and highlights the important aspects of the new CMPI. These DVDs will be made available to all vessels and each CSU. Each CIVMAR will have available on a CD and the ship’s LAN, a copy of the new Instruction and a user guide. The negotiators have also prepared a document which provides a side-by-side comparison of the new and old Instructions. Other documents describing the new Instruction will also be available, including a “frequently asked questions” document which will be updated as the Instruction is implemented to include the questions which arrive from the fleet. The SIU will continue to publish articles in the LOG to keep MSC CIVMARS updated on the progress of the CMPI 610 implementation. With the help of unlicensed CIVMARS, this Instruction was negotiated by the SIU with all CIVMARS in mind. In these talks, all participants were on equal footing. Negotiations were transparent and hard-fought. The IBB process required negotiators to reach a consensus on every line and section in this Instruction. To make implementation of the new Instruction as successful as possible, the SIU asks all CIVMARS to view the DVD and all other training materials as they become available, and be sure to contact the main e-mail address (provided in your training materials) as well as SIU representatives with questions or concerns. Lastly, the SIU encourages each CIVMAR to read the Instruction carefully, learn its provisions and refer to it often to ensure you are paid fairly and accurately for work done during overtime, premium and penalty pay periods aboard your vessels. September 2012 8/23/2012 10:04:43 AM �American Phoenix Lands in SIU Fleet SIU members are sailing aboard the brand new Jones Act tanker American Phoenix, which was christened June 28 in Mobile, Ala. Operated by Phoenix Crew Management, LLC for Mid Ocean Tanker Company, the American Phoenix is an outright addition to the Seafarerscrewed fleet. The double-hulled ship is 616 feet long, 49,000 DWT and has a capacity of 339,000 barrels. With a beam of 105 feet, it’s equipped to carry petroleum products, crude oil and chemicals. According to news reports, the American Phoenix had been part of a three-ship order by a company that went bankrupt. It was purchased by Mid Ocean at auction; finishing touches then were made to the American Phoenix at the BAE Systems shipyard in Mobile. The state-of-the-art vessel is expected to operate in the Gulf of Mexico. The Jones Act requires that vessels travelling between domestic ports must be crewed, built, owned and flagged American. The law helps sustain a pool of well-trained, reliable American mariners who are available to sail aboard U.S. military support ships. It also supports nearly 500,000 American jobs and contributes billions of dollars to the national economy, according to a study by PricewaterhouseCoopers. Bosun Samuel Duah (right) and Capt. Kurt Yost are pictured aboard the vessel in Mobile, Ala. The first galley gang aboard the new tanker consisted of (from left) Chief Cook Cesar Avila, Steward/Baker Pedro Mena and GVA Leo Battiste. Bipartisan Bill Aims To Reverse Harmful Cuts To Cargo Preference As reported during the July and August membership meetings, the entire industry, along with members of Congress, were blindsided by a last-minute, back-room deal in late June that used the Surface Transportation Bill to repeal longstanding cargo preference laws concerning PL-480 Food Aid cargoes. Among other harmful changes, the mandated U.S.-flag percentage of those cargoes was reduced from 75 percent to 50 percent. The SIU, other maritime unions and allies throughout the industry have been working nonstop to reverse these unjustifiable, sneaky cuts. One result of these efforts is a recently introduced bill called the Saving Essential American Sailors Act, H.R. 6170. Abbreviated as the SEAS Act, this bill has strong bipartisan support. It was introduced by U.S. Rep. Elijah Cummings (D-Md.) and U.S. Rep. Jeff Landry (R-La.). The bill would restore the 75-percent mandate and thereby help ensure that American food aid is transported by American workers. Additional original co-sponsors include Democratic U.S. Representatives Nick Rahall of West Virginia, Rick Larsen of Washington, Bennie Thompson of Mississippi, Colleen Hanabusa of Hawaii, Cedric Richmond of Louisiana and Tim Bishop of New York and Republican Representatives Michael Grimm of New York and Candice Miller of Michigan. Although there is widespread support for the heart of the SEAS Act, quick passage is far from assured, mainly because it is believed that Congress is essentially shutting down for the year. They have less than two weeks scheduled for September and then are out until after Election Day. Nevertheless, this bill is a top priority for the SIU and many others, and the union will continue fighting for its enactment. After the Surface Transportation Bill passed, Landry said of the reductions to U.S.-flag carriage of food aid cargoes, “This is what happens when Washington rushes bills; we don’t fully debate them or understand their ramifications. Section 100124 will mean that American taxpayers will be paying foreign workers while American mariners sit on the beach. I hope my colleagues from both sides of the aisle will join us in fighting for our American workers and quickly pass the SEAS Act.” Cummings said that when reductions like this one take place, “We risk leaving our economy and indeed our military dependent on foreign-flagged, foreign-owned vessels manned by non-U.S. citizens – a situation that would be intolerable.” For more information about the SEAS Act, visit the News section of the SIU website (www.seafarers.org). September 2012 11767_Log.indd 3 SIU Crews Up USNS Wheeler The union last month welcomed new shipboard jobs as Seafarers-contracted Interocean American Shipping (IAS) took over operations and maintenance of the USNS VADM K.R. Wheeler, a U.S. Military Sealift Command prepositioning ship that’s utilized for offshore petroleum distribution. IAS won the government bid to operate both the Wheeler and its support vessel, the Fast Tempo. Including options, the contract would last for approximately five years. SIU Vice President Contracts George Tricker pointed out that the Wheeler and the Fast Tempo are outright additions to the union’s fleet. As of press time, the Wheeler was crewing up in Pusan, South Korea. IAS Vice President for Human Resources Bob Rogers thanked the SIU and the Seafarers-affiliated American Maritime Officers “for the support we have received … which allowed us to be competitive in this solicitation.” Built in 2007, the Wheeler works as a pumping station. It is roughly 350 feet long, has a beam of 70 feet and can sail at 15 knots. The USNS Wheeler and its support vessel (both pictured above) are outright additions to the SIU fleet. Seafarers LOG 3 8/23/2012 10:04:45 AM �Labor Dept. Credits PHC Apprentice Program as One of Best The unlicensed apprentice program at the SIU-affiliated Paul Haul Center (PHC) for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md., has been recognized by the U.S. Labor Department as one of the best in the nation. The school was honored as an “Innovator and Trailblazer” Aug. 1 during a Washington, D.C., summit celebrating the 75th anniversary of the signing of the National Apprenticeship Act. Presenting the award to the PHC and other top programs, Labor Secretary Hilda Solis emphasized the role apprenticeship programs play in creating a strong middle class. “There’s a reason why industry invests $1 billion every year in apprenticeship programs,” she said. “They improve skills. They improve wages. And they improve a company’s bottom line. When all of these things happen together, they improve our economy and our way of life.” The PHC was founded in 1967 and has operated a DOL-registered apprenticeship program since 2003. The school is America’s largest training facility for merchant seafarers and inland waterways boatmen, and has graduated more than 3,000 entry-level mariners since 2003. John Mason, CEO of American Service Technology Inc., who accepted the award from Solis on behalf of the Paul Hall Center, said the recognition highlights the trainee program’s positive impact on the maritime industry and the country as a whole. “It’s an outstanding example of a labor and management partnership,” he said. “It fulfills the maritime transportation industry’s need for skilled, safe and qualified workers. The trailblazer award honors apprenticeship programs that have demonstrated an outstanding commitment to excellence.” The Aug. 1 event also celebrated the 75th anniversary of the creation of the National Apprenticeship Act. The original measure allowed the Labor Department to enact national labor standards for apprentices. There are now more than 24,000 DOL-registered apprenticeship programs in the country. Citing a study that showed those who complete a registered apprenticeship program earn at least $250,000 more over their lifetimes, Solis said programs like the one at the PHC are vital to the country’s economic future and workers’ financial stability. “Since my very first day as the secretary of labor, I’ve called apprenticeship ASTI CEO John Mason (center) accepts an award Aug. 1 recognizing the apprenticeship program at the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center from Labor Secretary Hilda Solis (left) and John Ladd, head of the Labor Department’s Employment and Training Administration. (Photo courtesy DOL) one of America’s best-kept secrets,” she said. “We’re giving hundreds of thousands of Americans industry-recognized credentials. Credentials can help workers For His Intensity, Dedication Union Remembers Late Retired Official Ripoll Gruff and often intense, former SIU official George Ripoll served his union much like he served his country during the Korean War – with a deep sense of duty and pride. The former soldier, Seafarer and businessman spent 37 years with the SIU, leaving a lasting impression with nearly everyone he came in contact with. Ripoll died July 31 in Palm Coast, Fla. He was 78. Ripoll’s time with the SIU began in 1955. He had recently completed service as an Army Ranger during the Korean War – a post that earned him several Bronze and Silver Stars – and was looking for a post-war job. After joining the SIU, Ripoll sailed on ships operated by companies like Waterman, Delta Lines and Victory Carriers, mostly in the engine and deck deRipoll is pictured at a Maritime partments. In 1961, he came Trades Department meeting in ashore to work for the SIU at the Andrew Furuseth School the early 1990s. in New York. Ripoll taught boxing, karate and other courses at the school – utilizing the particular set of skills he developed during his military service. He held a sixth-degree black belt in karate, was the 1961 world jujitsu champion and earned a gold medal in a 1965 international competition against the Soviet Union. “He was one of the soldiers stuck behind enemy lines in North Korea as the troops pulled back,” said retired port agent Edd Morris, who worked closely with Ripoll. “He could be quite an inspiration. He survived challenging circumstances and defied death many times … but, he survived to do many things for the SIU and the labor movement.” That work grew in 1978, following Ripoll’s appointment as a headquarters representative in New York. It was in New York that current SIU Vice President Government Services Kermett Mangram first met Ripoll. “He was responsible for my daily training. He took me to the waterfront and taught me how to be a rep and the things we were responsible for. He taught me how to protect the membership,” said Mangram, who arrived in New York in 1981. “He and his wife (Christine) opened up their home to me. He prided himself on protecting the membership. I owe that trait in myself to him.” While in New York, Ripoll earned his GED, attended Staten Island State College and later received a bachelor’s degree from what is now known as St. John’s University. In 1983, Ripoll moved to Jacksonville, Fla., eventually becoming an assistant vice president of the union’s government services division in 1988. 4 Seafarers LOG 11767_Log.indd 4 Florida was where current MTD Executive Secretary-Treasurer Daniel Duncan first met Ripoll. Duncan was beginning his SIU career as a field representative at the Jacksonville union hall and Ripoll was serving the SIU in various capacities. “George was very strong and determined for me to learn what the Seafarers was all about,” Duncan said. “I will always appreciate him for that.” Ripoll was well-known for his rough exterior. SIU colleagues who worked closely with him said that outer seriousness was fueled by an internal desire to better both himself and the union he so loyally served. “He was always tough because he wanted you to learn and understand and do the best you could,” Duncan said. While in Florida, Ripoll earned a master’s degree in accounting and served on many local civic and economic organizations. He retired from the SIU in 1991 after more than 37 years of service. Duncan, Mangram and Morris all said they kept in touch with Ripoll throughout the years, adding they were impressed by his constant desire to better himself. He may have been an intense guy, they said, but that intensity was what made Ripoll so memorable and effective. “There is so much to be said for and about him, it leaves me in awe,” Morris said. “I will be meditating on him for a while.” move up in their job – or move anywhere in America – knowing that their abilities will be recognized and their futures will be secure.” Committee Reviews Nomination Credentials For Upcoming Election The credentials committee, composed of six rank-and-file SIU members, has reviewed all nominating credentials of SIU members seeking office in the 2012 district-wide elections in the union’s Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/ NMU. After meeting last month and studying the nomination applications to ensure each candidate had complied with the criteria spelled out in the SIU’s constitution, the credentials committee issued its report, which will be presented to the membership for its approval at the September meetings. Twenty-six candidates for 25 ballot positions qualified to run in the election, which takes place Nov. 1 through Dec. 31, the committee reported. Members of the committee were elected at a special meeting conducted at headquarters-port of Piney Point on August 14, 2012. Voted to the committee by their fellow Seafarers were Gerard Costello, Thomas Cyrus, Hazel Johnson, Robert Ott, Nelson Poe and Francis Washington Jr. Ott was selected by the committee to serve as chairman. During the special meeting on August 14, Seafarers had to present their union books in order to be nominated to the committee. After the voting took place, results immediately were made known. The union constitution establishes guidelines for the credentials committee in Article XIII, Section 2. According to those rules, the committee must be elected at the port where headquarters is located (Piney Point). The credentials committee must consist of six full-book members, including two members from each of the three shipboard departments: deck, engine and steward. Continued on Page 7 After his sailing days, Ripoll (right) taught boxing and self-defense courses at the Furuseth School in New York in the early 1960s. See pages 6-7 for the full texts of the committee reports September 2012 8/23/2012 10:04:48 AM �Study Labels Collective Bargaining As Key to ‘Prosperity Economics’ A new report from Yale University identifies collective bargaining and other rights associated with union representation as crucial components of rebuilding an economy that benefits America’s working families. Professor Jacob Hacker and Nathaniel Loewentheil of Yale released their paper titled “Prosperity Economics: Building an Economy for All” during a July 31 event hosted by the respected, non-partisan think tank Economic Policy Institute (EPI) in Washington, D.C. They were joined by AFL-CIO President Richard Trumka and officials from the EPI, The Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights, the Center for Community Change, and other civic-minded organizations. Drawing on recent economic research, lessons from American history, and the success stories of other nations, Hacker and Loewentheil (a graduate student at Yale Law School) argue that the only path to sustainable, longterm growth is through an economy in which the benefits of growth are broadly shared. Prosperity economics depends on what they call the three pillars of prosperity: growth, security and democracy. “To achieve an economy that works for all Americans, we must focus on innovation-led growth grounded in job creation and public investment; security for workers and their families; and an accountable, effective democracy,” said Hacker. “Together, these three pillars will strengthen the middle class and drive our economy forward.” “Prosperity economics, as an integrated set of policies, offers a light at the end of the long economic tunnel of a generation of stagnant wages and financial crises,” said Trumka at the briefing. “Prosperity economics means jobs, it means investment and it means growth.” The 84-page report features numerous specific recommendations for economic growth. They include “ensuring decent wages and job quality by guaranteeing that workers have the right to form unions and to collectively bargain…. Guarantee every worker has a voice in the workplace, including a quick, fair process for workers to choose union representation and have the power to bargain collectively. Enforce stronger penalties on companies that violate labor laws.” The authors also noted, “Corporate power is not reigned in simply by empowering shareholders. Democracy also requires a counterweight to corporate power. Strong unions and community organizations are needed to ensure that workers, and the public more broadly, have an organized voice in our political process.” Other recommendations contained in the report include “investing $250 billion per year for the next six years to rebuild our nation’s crumbling roads, bridges, ports, airports and public transportation systems; restoring America’s manufacturing base by ending the trade deficit and tax incentives for offshoring; providing help to states and localities to hire back teachers, first responders and other public servants; (and) freeing government from corporate interests by reinstating the firewalls between investment and banking.” The report features many additional suggested steps for “investing in people and productivity that will lead to good jobs and rising wages.” The executive director of the Center for Community Change, Deepak Bhargava, stated, “The Great Recession shows us that when an economy is built on unequal policies, everyone loses. Prosperity economics increases revenue and growth and addresses the vast inequality and plummeting living standards that failed conservative economic policies have created.” “Hacker and Loewentheil have created  a serious, economically sound plan that meets the challenges facing America’s working people, specifically job creation and better job qual- ity, the key elements of an economy that works for everyone,” said Lawrence Mishel, president of the EPI. One day after the Yale study was announced, the AFL-CIO Executive Council (on which SIU President Michael Sacco serves) approved a statement that read in part: “Our history and the experience of working people around the world tells us that only when workers have the right to organize and collectively bargain do societies enjoy shared, sustainable prosperity. America desperately needs a reinvigorated middle class, and an economy where dignity and opportunity are rights shared by all and where workers are our economy’s most valuable assets. But this vision will remain unfulfilled so long as the right to organize and bargain collectively remains an empty promise for most American workers. We know from our history and from the example of other countries that without strong unions, shared prosperity will remain out of reach. “This is why Yale Professor Jacob Hacker’s blueprint titled ‘Prosperity Economics’ is so important,” the council’s statement continued. “Professor Hacker has proposed a comprehensive vision for our nation’s economic future—and he understands that for the vision to become reality, workers must be able to organize and bargain collectively. As Professor Hacker states, ‘Restoring the middle class means reversing the disconnect between wages and productivity, which means giving workers power to collectively negotiate for better terms of employment and a larger share of the rewards of growth.’ Shared prosperity requires policies that create good jobs and growth, provide families with economic security and restore democracy both in the public square and in the workplace. Shared prosperity also requires policies that promote collective bargaining as Congress recognized in the preamble to the National Labor Relations Act.” NOAA Ship Starts Arctic Mission In late July, the National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration vessel Fairweather (above) began a 30-day survey mission in the Arctic. The Fairweather’s crew includes members of the SIU Government Services Division. The ship was scheduled to check a sparsely measured, 1,500-nautical mile coastal corridor from Dutch Harbor, Alaska, north through the Bering Strait and east to the Canadian border. According to the agency, the mission aimed to cover sea lanes last measured in 1778. September 2012 11767_Log_X.indd 5 SIU Contracts Stay In Place As Maersk Acquires 3PSC SIU-contracted Maersk Line, Limited (MLL) in early August completed its acquisition of another Seafarers-contracted company: 3PSC. For SIU members aboard the affected vessels, it is business as usual. The union’s contracts remain in place and, as noted in a separate communication to the ships, the transition is expected to take place over a five-month period. The closing took place Aug. 2 in Norfolk, Va., where MLL is headquartered. 3PSC is based in Cape Canaveral, Fla. Under the terms of the agreement, MLL will take over 3PSC’s current contract for the operation and maintenance of SIUcrewed special mission ships owned by the U.S. Navy’s Military Sealift Command. Those vessels are the USNS Pathfinder, USNS Sumner, USNS Bowditch, USNS Henson, USNS Bruce Heezen and USNS Mary Sears. MLL plans to integrate 3PSC operations into its Norfolk headquarters by the end of the calendar year. A Maersk spokesman said the acquisition “demonstrates MLL’s longstanding commitment to ship operation and management services for the national defense of the United States, and solidifies MLL’s position as a leading government contractor.” “Through the acquisition of 3PSC, MLL will continue its tradition of providing outstanding ship operation and maintenance services to the Military Sealift Command,” said John F. Reinhart, president and CEO of MLL. “During our visits to the Cape Canaveral office, we have been impressed by the technical expertise and professionalism of the 3PSC team. We are pleased to have them join Maersk Line, Limited. “We see a lot of promise in the vessel operation and maintenance segment,” added Reinhart. “The integration of 3PSC will strengthen our team and capabilities. We look forward to competing for new opportunities, for the Military Sealift Command and other programs that support the National Defense requirements.” AFL-CIO Asserts Federal Workers Have Shouldered Enough Sacrifice They do jobs of vital importance for the American people, but the nation’s 2.6 million federal civilian workers are being “substantially” underpaid in the name of deficit reduction, the AFL-CIO Executive Council said in a recent statement. The SIU is an AFL-CIO affiliate, and SIU President Michael Sacco is the longest-serving current member on the federation’s executive council. Referring to the fact that federal workers earn an average of 24 percent less than their private-sector counterparts, the council said federal employees are simply forced to sacrifice too much. Federal workers are the ones who administer Social Security and Medicare benefits, enforce wage and safety standards and provide support to the military, among many other duties. “Federal employees are substantially underpaid for this important work,” the council said in a statement that was released in early August, adding the problem doesn’t just apply to wages. “Their health insurance is (also) less generous than that provided by large firms in the private sector.” While pressure to reduce the deficit has resulted in an unprecedented twoyear pay freeze for federal workers, the council said many of the most successful private-sector workers have not been asked to make any sacrifices of their own. “It is often said there must be ‘shared sacrifice’ to reduce the deficit, but it hardly qualifies as ‘shared sacrifice’ when nobody else shares in the pain,” the council said. “Unlike federal employees, millionaires, billionaires, Wall Street firms and the 1 percent have not been asked to pitch in one dime.” Sacrifices by federal employees, on the other hand, have already produced $60 billion in projected budget savings over the next 10 years. A planned 2013 pay adjustment could raise that number to more than $100 billion. That’s particularly alarming, the council said, when it comes to what federal contractors are allowed to earn. Seafarers LOG 5 8/24/2012 12:01:52 PM �Credentials Approved for Candidates to 25 Union Offices REPORT OF CREDENTIALS COMMITTEE ON CANDIDATES FOR 2012 ELECTION OF OFFICERS, 2013-2016 SEAFARERS INTERNATIONAL UNION OF NORTH AMERICA-ATLANTIC, GULF, LAKES AND INLAND WATERS DISTRICT/NMU We, the undersigned members of the Credentials Committee, were duly elected at a Special meeting held in Headquarters-Port of Piney Point on August 14, 2012. We have examined the credentials of candidates for elective office or job in the Seafarers International Union of North America-Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU for the years 2013-2016, in accordance with Article XI, Section 1, and submit the following report. Your Committee qualified or disqualified those members who submitted for office based upon the Union Constitution, particularly those provisions contained in Articles XII and XIII. The applicable constitutional provisions are as follows: ARTICLE XII, Qualifications for Officers, Assistant VicePresidents, Port Agents, and Other Elective Jobs Section 1. Any member of the Union is eligible to be a candidate for, and hold, any office or the job of Assistant Vice-President, or Port Agent provided: (a) He has at least three (3) years of seatime in an unlicensed capacity aboard an American-flag merchant vessel or vessels. In computing time, time spent in the employ of the Union, its subsidiaries and its affiliates, or in any employment at the Union’s direction, shall count the same as seatime. Union records, Welfare Plan records and/or company records can be used to determine eligibility; and (b) He has been a full book member in continuous good standing in the Union for at least three (3) years immediately prior to his nomination; and (c) He has at least one hundred (100) days of seatime, in an unlicensed capacity, aboard an American-flag vessel or vessels covered by contract with this Union or one hundred (100) days of employment with, or in any office or job of, the Union, its subsidiaries and its affiliates, or in any employment at the Union’s direction or a combination of these, between January 1 and the time of nomination in the election year, except if such seatime is wholly aboard such merchant vessels operating solely upon the Great Lakes or, if such seatime is wholly aboard tugboats, towboats or dredges and contractual employment thereon is for fixed days with equal amount of days off, he shall have at least sixty-five (65) days of such seatime instead of the foregoing one hundred (100) days; and (d) He is a citizen of the United States of America; and (e) He is not disqualified by law. He is not receiving a pension from this Union’s Pension Fund, if any, or from a UnionManagement Fund, to which Fund this Union is a party or from a company under contract with this Union; unless such individual commenced receiving a pension benefit from any such fund by virtue of having reached the age of 70½. (f) He has not sailed in a licensed capacity aboard an American flag merchant vessel or vessels within twenty four (24) consecutive months immediately prior to the opening of nominations. Section 2. All candidates for, and holders of, other elective jobs not specified in the preceding sections shall be full book members of the Union. Section 3. All candidates for, and holders of, elective offices and jobs, whether elected or appointed in accordance with this Constitution, shall maintain full book memberships in good standing. ARTICLE XIII, Election for Officers, Assistant VicePresidents, and Port Agents Section 1. Nominations. Except as provided in Section 2(b) of this Article, any full book member may submit his name for nomination for any office, or the job of Assistant Vice-President, or Port Agent, by delivering or causing to be delivered in person, to the office of the Secretary-Treasurer at Headquarters, or sending a letter addressed to the Credentials Committee, in care of the Secretary-Treasurer at the address of Headquarters. This letter shall be dated and shall contain the following: (a) The name of the candidate. (b) His home address and mailing address. (c) His book number. (d) The title of the office or other job for which he is a candidate, including the name of the Port in the event the position sought is that of Port Agent. (e) Proof of citizenship. (f) Proof of seatime and/or employment as required for candidates. (g) In the event the member is on a vessel, he shall notify the Credentials Committee what vessel he is on. This shall be done also if he ships subsequent to forwarding his credentials. (h) Annexing a certificate in the following form, signed and dated by the proposed nominee: “I hereby certify that I am not now, nor, for the five (5) years last past, have I been either a member of the Communist Party or convicted of, or served any part of a prison term resulting from conviction of robbery, bribery, extortion, embezzlement, grand larceny, burglary, arson, violation of narcotics laws, murder, rape, assault with intent to kill, assault which inflicts grievous bodily injury, or violation of Title II or III of the Landrum Griffin Act, or conspiracy to commit any such crimes.” Dated……………………………. Signature of Member……………….. Book No. …………………. Printed forms of the certificate shall be made available to nominees. Where a nominee cannot truthfully execute such a certificate, but is, in fact, legally eligible for an office or job by reason of the restoration of civil rights originally revoked by such conviction or a favorable determination by the Board of Parole of the United States Department of Justice, he shall, in lieu of the 6 Seafarers LOG 11767_Log.indd 6 foregoing certificate, furnish a complete signed statement of the facts of his case together with true copies of the documents supporting his statement. Any full book member may nominate any other full book member in which event such full book member so nominated shall comply with the provisions of this Article as they are set forth herein relating to the submission of credentials. By reason of the above self nomination provision the responsibility, if any, for notifying a nominee of his nomination to office shall be that of the nominator. All documents required herein must reach Headquarters no earlier than July 15 and no later than August 15 of the election year. The Secretary-Treasurer is charged with safekeeping of these letters and shall turn them over to the Credentials Committee upon the latter’s request. In order to ascertain the meaning of the term “member in good standing” which is used in Article XII, Subsection 1(b), the Committee referred to Article XXIV, Section 9 of our Constitution which reads as follows: Section 9. The term “member in good standing” shall mean a member whose monetary obligations to the Union are not in arrears for thirty (30) days or more, or who is not under suspension or expulsion effective in accordance with this Constitution. Unless otherwise expressly indicated, the term “member” shall mean a member in good standing. Your Committee sought guidance from the Union’s General Counsel and the Secretary-Treasurer as to whether this section would apply to a member who is unable to pay dues because of employment aboard an American flag merchant vessel as stated in Article III, Section 3(e). Your Committee was advised that, in keeping with past practice and constitutional interpretation, the same thirty (30) day grace period should be applied in these situations. Accordingly, when a member who is working on foreign articles leaves the vessel, the dues for the applicable quarter must be paid within thirty (30) days from the date of discharge in order to maintain good standing. Your Committee also referred to Article XXIV, Section 13 for the definition of the term “seatime”. This section reads as follows: Section 13. The term “seatime” shall include employment upon any navigable waters, days of employment in a contracted employer unit represented by the Union or time spent in the employ of the Union or one of the Union’s direct affiliates as an elected or appointed representative. We also noted in Article XXIV, Section 14, the meaning of the term “in an unlicensed capacity aboard an American-flag merchant vessel or vessels.” This portion of the Constitution reads as follows: Section 14. The term “in an unlicensed capacity aboard an American-flag merchant vessel or vessels” shall include persons employed in an unlicensed or licensed capacity aboard dredges, tugboats, towboats and similar vessels used to tow, propel, or push barges or other conveyances or assist merchant vessels in docking or undocking, or persons otherwise employed in a contracted employer unit represented by the Union. After full and careful deliberations, the Committee made its decisions and sent appropriate notification to candidates. The ultimate decisions of this Committee are later set forth. In arriving at these ultimate decisions, the Committee was most concerned with carrying out a stated principle of our Union which is that “every qualified member shall have the right to nominate himself for, and, if elected or appointed, to hold office in this Union.” In connection with the foregoing, we have also consulted with the Secretary-Treasurer who, under our Constitution, has the obligation to insure appropriate election procedures as legally required (Article XIII, Section 7). Our Secretary-Treasurer has further consulted with the Union’s Counsel as to the law applicable in Union nominations and elections. The following is a complete listing of all members who submitted their credentials to the Committee. Their names and the office or job for which they submitted such credentials are listed in the order in which this Committee feels they should be placed on the general ballot, that is, in alphabetical order under the office or job for which they run, and that the Ports, following the Headquarters offices, beginning with Piney Point, be arranged on the ballot geographically, as has been done in the past. After each member’s name and book number is his/her qualification or disqualification, followed by the reason for that decision. PRESIDENT Michael J. Sacco, S-01288 Qualified Credentials in order EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT Augustin Tellez, T-00764 Qualified Credentials in order SECRETARY-TREASURER David W. Heindel, H-01443 Qualified Credentials in order VICE-PRESIDENT IN CHARGE OF CONTRACTS AND CONTRACT ENFORCEMENT George Tricker, T-00919 Qualified Credentials in order VICE-PRESIDENT IN CHARGE OF THE ATLANTIC COAST Joseph T. Soresi, S-02658 Qualified Credentials in order VICE-PRESIDENT IN CHARGE OF THE GULF COAST Dean E. Corgey, C-05727 Qualified Credentials in order VICE-PRESIDENT IN CHARGE OF THE WEST COAST Nicholas J. Marrone, M-02308 Qualified Credentials in order VICE-PRESIDENT IN CHARGE OF THE SOUTHERN REGION, GREAT LAKES AND INLAND WATERS Michael D. Murphy, M-02483 Qualified Credentials in order Thomas Orzechowski, Jr, O-00601 Qualified Credentials in order VICE-PRESIDENT IN CHARGE OF GOVERNMENT SERVICES AND FISHING INDUSTRIES Kermett T. Mangram, M-02394 Qualified Credentials in order ASSISTANT VICE-PRESIDENT IN CHARGE OF CONTRACTS AND CONTRACT ENFORCEMENT Archie Ware, W-01169 Qualified Credentials in order ASSISTANT VICE-PRESIDENT IN CHARGE OF THE ATLANTIC COAST Nicholas A. Celona, C-01578 Qualified Credentials in order ASSISTANT VICE-PRESIDENT IN CHARGE OF THE GULF COAST Ambrose L. Cucinotta, C-01795 Qualified Credentials in order ASSISTANT VICE-PRESIDENT IN CHARGE OF THE WEST COAST Bryan Powell, P-01987 Qualified Credentials in order ASSISTANT VICE-PRESIDENT IN CHARGE OF THE SOUTHERN REGION, GREAT LAKES AND INLAND WATERS James P. McGee, M-05945 Qualified Credentials in order ASSISTANT VICE-PRESIDENT IN CHARGE OF GOVERNMENT SERVICES AND FISHING INDUSTRIES Chester Wheeler, W-25058 Qualified Credentials in order PINEY POINT PORT AGENT Patrick Vandegrift, V-00488 Qualified Credentials in order NEW YORK PORT AGENT Robert Selzer, S-01258 Qualified Credentials in order PHILADELPHIA PORT AGENT Joseph Baselice, B-02795 Qualified Credentials in order BALTIMORE PORT AGENT Georg Kenny, K-01041 Qualified Credentials in order MOBILE PORT AGENT Jimmy White, W-1600 Qualified Credentials in order NEW ORLEANS PORT AGENT Chris Westbrook, W-05787 Qualified Credentials in order HOUSTON PORT AGENT Michael Russo, R-5772 Qualified Credentials in order OAKLAND PORT AGENT Tracey Mayhew, M-03487 Qualified Credentials in order ST. LOUIS PORT AGENT Rebecca J. Sleeper, S-02497 Qualified Credentials in order DETROIT-ALGONAC PORT AGENT Todd Brdak, B-02684 Qualified Credentials in order In compliance with Article XIII, Section 2(b) of our Constitution, and in an attempt to give every nominee every consideration and to try to prevent any disqualifications by this Committee, Robert Ott, of the Credentials Committee, remained at the entrance of the Headquarters building of the Union until midnight of Wednesday, August 15, 2012, to receive any credentials that might have been delivered by hand after the closing of business hours by the Union. The Committee points out that in the President’s Pre-Balloting Report approved by the membership as per the Constitution and published in the May SEAFARERS LOG the exact offices and jobs for which nominations were to be made was set forth. Our committee was presented with a nomination of Brother Michael Murphy for the position of Vice President In Charge of Southern Region, Great Lakes and Inland Waters. After review- Continued on Page 7 September 2012 8/23/2012 10:04:50 AM �REPORT OF CONSTITUTIONAL COMMITTEE We, the undersigned Constitutional Committee, were elected at a Special Meeting held in Piney Point on August 14, 2012, in accordance with Article XXV, Section 2 of our Constitution. We have had referred to us and studied, proposed Constitutional Amendments contained in Resolutions submitted by our Executive Board. These Resolutions, containing the proposed amendments, prior to their submission to us, were adopted by a majority vote of the membership. The provisions of these Resolutions including their “WHEREAS” clauses, are contained in this report so that all members will have available to them their full text for review and study at the same time that they read this, our Report and Recommendations. First, Whereas, Article XIII, Section 1 of the Constitution of this Union, which deals with the nomination process for the election of officers, specifies that, in addition to satisfying all other constitutional eligibility requirements to run for office, anyone nominated must also sign a certificate certifying that he or she has not been convicted of certain specific criminal offenses or been a member of the Communist Party during the five year period preceding the year of nominations; and Whereas, legal counsel has advised that the relevant law has been amended which extended the disqualifying period from five years to thirteen years; and Whereas, legal counsel has also advised that judicial precedent no longer allows a disqualification from running for or holding union office solely based upon an individual’s Communist party membership, NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT, an amendment to Article XIII, section 1 of the Constitution of the Seafarers International Union, AGLIWD, be included on the upcoming ballot for the election of officers to change the language on the required certificate to read as follows: “I hereby certify that the during the past thirteen (13) years I have not been convicted of, or served any part of a prison term resulting from a conviction for robbery, bribery, extortion, embezzlement, grand larceny, burglary, arson, violation of narcotics laws, murder, rape, assault with intent to kill, assault which inflicts grievous bodily injury, or violation of Title II or III of the Landrum Griffin Act, or conspiracy to commit such crimes. In addition, I certify that I support the Constitution of the United States of America, its institutions and form of government.” Second, Whereas, the name of this Union was chosen decades ago when several individual districts and entities came together to form one union; and Whereas, all of the individual districts and entities have been successfully merged into one Union which acts as a National Union affiliated with the Seafarers International Union of North America, AFL-CIO; and Whereas, the Executive Board of this Union, upon resolution duly introduced, seconded and voted upon unanimously, on July 20, 2012, agreed to submit to the membership at their next regular membership meeting a proposal to amend the constitution to change the name of the Union; Be it resolved that, if approved by a majority vote of the membership, the name of this Union shall be the Seafarers International Union of North America, Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters. We further recommend, if it is reasonably possible, that a copy of our Committee’s Report containing the proposed Committee Approves Candidates’ Credentials Continued from Page 6 ing his credentials it appeared Brother Murphy failed to include his book number in his nomination letter as required in Article XIII, Section 1. In addition, when signing the certificate as required to be attached to the nomination pursuant to Article XIII of the Constitution, Brother Murphy deleted the section which states he has not been a member of the Communist Party. Our committee, when evaluating Brother Murphy’s qualifications, sought the advice of Union General Counsel who advised us that provisions such as the one in question have been struck down by Courts and consequently, she recommended that it not be used to disqualify Brother Murphy. In addition, the Committee felt that his omission of his book number should not be reason to disqualify as he included his book number on his required certificate. Based upon this fact and the advice of counsel and the cited legal precedent the Committee has decided to qualify Brother Murphy by finding his credentials in order. All credentials received as of August 15, 2012 have been furnished to the Committee in good order. All credentials have been examined in strict accordance with the Constitution. Any defect in the credentials disposed of by the Committee has been the sole responsibility of the sender and no person adversely affected by such defect has denied this to the Committee. ident, secretary-treasurer, vice president, assistant vice president or one of 10 port agent posts had to submit nominating papers between July 15 and Aug. 15. The Seafarers who served on the credentials committee also were elected by their fellow mem- bers to serve on the constitutional committee, in accordance with Article XXV, Section 2 of the union’s constitution. They issued a separate report detailing the proposed constitutional amendments that will appear on the ballot. Dated: August 16, 2012 Fraternally submitted Credentials Committee Panel Completes Review of Nomination Credentials Continued from Page 4 Additionally, no elected official or candidate for union office is permitted to serve on the committee. Members seeking the position of president, executive vice pres- Elected as committee members were (from left, seated) Hazel Johnson, Francis Washington Jr., Robert Ott, (standing) Nelson Poe, Thomas Cyrus and Gerard Costello. September 2012 11767_Log.indd 7 Resolutions and membership action taken to date, be printed in the Seafarers LOG, October 2012 issue, so that the membership will be kept abreast as to all facts and actions taken as of this time. In addition, we recommend that copies of such LOG issue, to the extent possible, be made available to the membership at all Union offices and Halls during the months of November and December 2012. Your Constitutional Committee wishes to thank the Union, its officers, representatives, members and counsel for their cooperation and assistance during our deliberations and to assure all members that we believe the adoption of the proposed Resolutions will serve the needs of the Union and the membership. DATE: August 16, 2012 Fraternally submitted, Constitutional Committee Procedures For Obtaining SIU Absentee Ballot Elections for the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU are scheduled for later this year. As in past SIU election years, a comprehensive guide will be published in the Seafarers LOG prior to the balloting. In the case of members eligible to vote who believe they will be at sea during the Nov. 1 through Dec. 31, 2012 voting period or who otherwise think they will need absentee ballots, absentee ballots will be available. The SIU constitution ensures that members who are eligible to vote and who find themselves in this situation may vote. Procedures are established in the SIU constitution to safeguard the secret ballot election, including the absentee ballot process. Here is the procedure to follow when requesting an absentee ballot: 1. Make the request in writing to the SIU office of the secretary-treasurer, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. 2. Include in the request the correct address where the absentee ballot should be mailed. 3. Send the request for an absentee ballot by registered or certified mail. 4. The registered or certified mail envelope must be postmarked no later than midnight, Nov. 15, 2012 and must be received at 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746 no later than Nov. 25, 2012. 5. The secretary-treasurer, after confirming eligibility, will send by registered mail, return receipt requested, to the address designated in the request, a ballot, together with an envelope marked “Ballot” and a mailing envelope no later than Nov. 30, 2012. 6. Upon receiving the ballot and envelope, vote by marking the ballot. After voting the ballot, place the ballot in the envelope marked “Ballot.” Do not write on the “Ballot” envelope. 7. Place the envelope marked “Ballot” in the mailing envelope which is imprinted with the mailing address of the bank depository where all ballots are sent. 8. Sign the mailing envelope on the first line of the upper left-hand corner. Print name and book number on the second line. The mailing envelope is self-addressed and stamped. 9. The mailing envelope must be postmarked no later than midnight, Dec. 31, 2012 and received by the bank depository no later than Jan. 5, 2013. Seafarers LOG 7 8/23/2012 10:04:51 AM �Recertified Bosuns Speak of Expanded Opportunities Members Credit Union, School as Gateways to Advancement Weeks of hard work and training paid off recently when six SIU members took the stage at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education (PHC) to graduate from the school’s renowned bosun recertification program. During their three-week stay at the school’s Piney Point, Md. campus, the bosuns completed sessions covering the Manila Amendments to the STCW Convention, communication skills, safety measures and more. They also participated in meetings at the SIU’s headquarters in Camp Springs, Md., and at the AFL-CIO Maritime Trades Department offices in Washington, D.C. The PHC’s recertification program provides what is considered the top curriculum available to deck-department Seafarers, and the impact of that training wasn’t lost on the bosuns as they stepped to the podium Aug. 6 to accept their certificates. Addressing a gathering of fellow members, unlicensed apprentices and union officials, Recertified Bosuns Trevorous Ellison, Timothy Fogg, Richard Gathers, Gerry Gianan, Charles Mull and Joshua Mensah praised both the school and the union for helping them get where they wanted to be in their lives. Thanks to the union, they said, they have job security. Thanks to the school, they’ll be even better at performing those jobs. “Had it not been for the SIU, I wouldn’t be here standing before you,” said Gianan, who has sailed out of Wilmington, Calif., since joining the union in 1993. “(The) SIU gave me the opportunity to improve myself and better myself through the various training and upgrading courses here in the Paul Hall Center, which, in return, afforded me better jobs.” Addressing the trainees, Gianan emphasized the importance of safety and maintaining a positive outlook. “Learn, adapt and practice to work and function as a team,” he said. “A valuable, efficient and effective team member, that is.” Ellison, who has sailed out of St. Louis since joining the SIU in 2002, said the course gave him “a better understanding of some subjects or ways to Newly recertified bosuns pose on the grounds of the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. Pictured from left are Gerry Gianan, Richard Gathers, Trevorous Ellison, Joshua Mensah, Timothy Fogg and Charles Mull. deal with situations on the ship,” adding that he also had many union and school officials to acknowledge for his career and training. “It has allowed me to travel and see some nice places,” he said of his various voyages. “I would like to thank the union leadership and the instructors at the school.” As for the trainees, Ellison’s advice was simple: “When you get out to sea, work hard, carry your load and don’t be afraid to ask questions.” A 25-year union member sailing out of Jacksonville, Fla., Mull said he upgraded at Piney Point twice before and was eager to learn new things and see new places. Among the most useful aspects of his training was “having a better overall knowledge of contracts, shipping rules and membership needs,” Mull said. “I would like to thank everyone here at the school and headquarters for all you do every day.” Mull then addressed the trainees. “The one thing that will carry you through is good seamanship,” he said. “Be part of the solution, not the problem. It makes things easier on everyone.” Fellow Floridian Gathers – who has sailed out of Jacksonville since joining the SIU in 1995 – was just as excited to learn new skills and brush up on old ones. “It’s a good source of information and the teaching was excellent,” he said of the recertification course. “It’s a real honor to be in this union and this recertification class.” Gathers advised the trainees to make the most of the opportunities provided both on- and off-shore. “When you’re out to sea don’t be afraid to ask questions,” he said. “And take advantage of every opportunity in the union.” Fogg said he has upgraded more than a dozen times at the PHC since joining the SIU in 1990, but added he always looks forward to a new trip to Piney Point and the valuable information that comes with it. “For 22 years I’ve been through Piney Point and each time I’m happy to say I’ve gained a wealth of knowledge,” he Continued on Page 14 The bosuns (facing camera) brush up on their computer skills. 8 Seafarers LOG 11767_Log.indd 8 September 2012 8/23/2012 10:04:52 AM �TAKE US OUT TO THE BALLGAMES – Mariners and other union members were recognized at Nationals Park in Washington, D.C., during separate pregame events Aug. 1 and Aug. 3. The earlier date was billed as U.S. Merchant Marine Night, and SIU AB Greg White (far right in photo at right above) from the Crowley-managed SS Wright along with SIU Government Services Division Purser Joseph Schaefer (third from right) helped represent American mariners. Also pictured on the field with the team mascot are (from left) Rear Adm. Mark Buzby, commander of MSC; former Federal Maritime Commissioner and retired Congresswoman Helen Bentley; and Maritime Administrator David Matsuda. “Labor Night” took place two evenings later, with SIU members, officials and employees in the stands along with thousands of other area trade unionists. Recognized between double-header games were (photo above, from left) Seafarer Daniel Duncan, who is president of the Northern Virginia Labor Federation as well as executive secretary-treasurer of the MTD; Dena Briscoe, president of the American Postal Workers Union of D.C. and Southern Maryland; Kathleen McKirchy, executive director, Community Services Agency; Tionte Lewis, son of an AFGE Local 3615 official; and Ironworkers General President Walter Wise. The event raises money for the Community Service Agency’s emergency assistance fund, which helps union families in times of need. At Sea and Ashore with the SIU ARTISTIC DONATION IN TACOMA – Recertified Steward Scott Opsahl (above) this summer donated nautical prints to the union hall in Tacoma, Wash. One of the pieces is pictured here. Opsahl said estate sales near the waterfront may be good sources for finding such artwork. REELING ’EM IN ABOARD USNS STOCKHAM – During a recent voyage from Jacksonville, Fla., around South Africa to Diego Garcia, mariners aboard the USNS Stockham (operated by Maersk Line, Limited) caught numerous mahi-mahis, noted Third Mate Ed McDonnell, who submitted these photos. Pictured from left to right in the photo above are Chief Cook Esper Jordan, OS Chris Hughes and OS Jesus Sanchez. Shown in the photo below are (from left) an unidentified mariner, GUDE Evan Hansen (kneeling), OS Hughes, QMED Nakesha Miller and Storekeeper Jaime Bautista. QMED EARNS MAERSK SAFETY AWARD – Aboard the Maersk Wyoming, QMED Apolinario Calacal (right) recently received a $100 cash award in recognition of his commitment to vessel operator Maersk Line, Limited’s safety culture. The award is part of a long-running Maersk safety program. Standing with Calacal is Recertified Steward John Reid, a permanent member of the ship’s safety committee. (Thanks to vessel master Capt. Kevin G. Coulombe for submitting the photo.) SUCCESSFUL SAFETY SESSION – Pictured in the photo at left are Seafarers and shore-side employees of Maersk Line, Limited (MLL) who in late July completed safety leadership meetings conducted at the unionaffiliated Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md. The conferences are part of an ongoing Maersk program aimed at maintaining and improving workplace safety. Attendees, most of whom are pictured here, included SIU members Munassar Ahmed, Ryver Alexander, Aristeo Aquino, Gregorio Blanco Aranda, Edwin Bonefont, J.K. Borden, Riccardo Ciolino, Thomas Cyrus, Harold Gerber, Billy Gigante, Tim Girard, Michael Hilton, Herbert Hyde, Anson John, Derrick Jones, Andrew King, Alice Kwasnjuk, Raymond Maldonado, William Matthews, Ed Meregillano, Eddy Newman, Jo Postell, Winston Rankin, Simeon Rivas, Edwin Rivera, Chad Rudisill, Victor Sahagon, Peter Schmitt, Melvin Stegall and Neil Sullivan. September 2012 11767_Log.indd 9 Seafarers LOG 9 8/23/2012 10:04:57 AM �Three Generations Heed a Call to Sea, SIU For one reason or another, some sort of invisible current has carried generation after generation of the Georgia-based Sims family out to sea and into the SIU. Ever since Ernest Sims Sr. set sail for Europe aboard a Liberty ship during World War II, the family has looked to the water from the Savannah port with fascination and wonder. For them, seafaring was something they were simply born to do. “I’ve been on the water my whole life,” said 20-year-old Ethan Sims, who just began his seafaring career in the unlicensed apprentice program at SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. “It’s something I’ve always wanted to do.” Hoping to work his way up and become a captain one day, Ethan said his ambition stemmed from a childhood filled with stories about sea-bound adventures. His grandfather was a member of the SIU since the 1940s and his father attended the same Piney Point campus. “He tells me every day how proud he is,” Ethan said of his father, Ernest Jr. “The classes are fun and they’re hands-on. The instructors make sure you know everything. They want you to succeed.” Thinking of his own seafaring experiences, Ernest Jr. said he knows Ethan’s time at sea will profoundly impact him. “You get to see what the world is all about,” he said. “I’m hoping it will make him become a man. To me, that’s what the sea does.” Like his son, Ernest Jr. grew up fascinated with the sea. His father, Ernest Sr., worked as a chief steward and spent most of his time traveling aboard ships. Ernest Jr., meanwhile, cherished hearing his father’s tales of adventure. “My dad had over 30 years of sea time,” he said. “That was his passion and that’s where he felt most comfortable.” In 1969, at the age of 18, Ernest Jr. headed to Jacksonville, Fla., and caught his first ship. “Everybody wants to do what their father did at some time,” he said. “There was no doubt that was going to be one of the things I was going to do.” By 1971, Ernest Jr. was in Piney Point. Training as a bosun, he found himself comfortPiney Point proved a positive influence on Ernest Sims. Jr.’s sailing able with the work days, and now is helping Ethan Sims launch his career. and eager to learn. The late Ernest Sims Sr. poses in this undated photo. Sims sailed to Europe aboard a Liberty ship during World War II and his career included more than 30 years at sea. Ethan Sims, 20, poses at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. He’s following the footsteps of his father and grandfather with membership in the SIU. A young Ernest Sims Jr. poses while out to sea in this undated photo. Sims’ father joined the SIU in the 1940s and inspired his son to take to sea. Ernest Jr. was determined to better himself with the help of his training and the SIU. “It’s just a really great place,” he said of the Piney Point campus. “I’m really proud my son got to go there. He’s got a great opportunity to better his life.” After spending more than a decade at sea, Ernest Jr. left seafaring and entered the business world in the early 1980s. A decade later, Ethan was born. Ernest Jr.’s seafaring experience and love for the water, however, never left him. “I told (Ethan) about it his whole life,” Ernest Jr. said. “I told him about all the places I got to go to and how much I loved it. And I told him how great of an opportunity it was to advance.” Ethan could attest to that. “My dad didn’t do it (seafaring) when I was growing up, but he told me a lot about it,” he said. “His stories about traveling the world really made me want to do it.” Now, as Ethan embarks on his own seafaring path, Ernest Jr. watches with pride. He sees the same passion that lured his father to the sea and has high hopes for his ambitious son. “It’s a life-changing experience and I hope my son will do well,” he said. “He’s ready to put the pedal to the metal.” Notice COBRA Continuation Coverage The Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan (SHBP) would like to notify you of the right to elect to purchase continuation of health coverage if you lose coverage, or experience a reduction in coverage due to certain qualifying events. This continuation of coverage is known as COBRA. Generally, if you are the employee, you will be eligible to purchase COBRA coverage for a certain period of time if you lost coverage because you did not have enough days of covered employment (unless the job was lost due to gross misconduct). If you are the family member of a covered erage. If you are the spouse or dependent child of an employee, you may also elect COBRA if you experience a reduction in coverage when the employee retires. When you retire, if you were eligible for benefits from the SHBP at the time of your retirement, you will be eligible to purchase COBRA continuation coverage for yourself and/or your family members, even if you are eligible for retiree health benefits. This will enable you and/or your family to continue to receive the same level of benefits that you had prior to your retirement for a certain period of time. If you meet the eligibility requirements for retiree health benefits, you will begin to receive those benefits when the COBRA period ends. For more information about continuation coverage rights under COBRA, please refer to the Plan’s “Guide to Your Benefits.” The guide is also available in PDF format on the SIU web site, www. seafarers.org, under “Member BenefitsSeafarers Benefit Plans-Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan.” If you have questions regarding this notice or COBRA, contact the Plan at 1 (800) 252-4674. Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan Important Notice To Participants With Children Between Ages 19 and 25 Notice New Summary Plan Description Booklet Describing Pensioners’ Health Benefits Notice SHBP is a Grandfathered Plan Under Affordable Care Act The Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan would like to remind you that since January 1, 2011, the Plan has offered health coverage to children between the ages of 19 and 25, regardless of whether the child is a full-time student. Your child does not have to live with you or be supported by you to be eligible for coverage from the Plan; however, you must provide a notarized affidavit which certifies that your child does not have other health coverage. If your child is about to turn 19, you must send the Plan a completed Enrollment Form and Affidavit for Dependent Child in order to maintain your child’s coverage. If the Plan does not receive this form by your child’s 19th birthday, your child will lose coverage from the Plan. Coverage will not be reinstated until the first of the month following the month in which the Plan receives the form. The Enrollment Form and Affidavit for Dependent Child is available at www.seafarers.org, under the Member Benefits Section. You must click on the link for the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan. The Plan will also mail this form to you upon request. If you have any questions about the form or about enrolling your child, you may contact the Claims Department at 1-800-252-4674. The Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan has revised the summary plan description (SPD) booklet that describes the health benefits available to eligible pensioners and their dependents. The booklet was recently mailed to all pensioners who are eligible for health benefits. It is also available at www.seafarers. org in the Member Benefits section, under the heading “Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan,” by clicking on “Download SHBP Guide (retirees).” You may also request a copy of the booklet by contacting the membership assistance office at 1-800-252-4674. Booklets will also be available at the union halls. If you are thinking about retiring in the near future, the SHBP suggests that you read this booklet, as it explains the requirements you must meet in order to receive health benefits when you become a pensioner. It also contains details about the benefits that you and your family will receive if you are eligible for pensioner health benefits. If you have any questions about pensioner health benefits, you may contact the SHBP at the number listed above. The Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan would like to remind you that it believes that it is a “grandfathered health plan” under the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (the Affordable Care Act). As permitted by the Affordable Care Act, a grandfathered health plan can preserve certain basic health coverage that was already in effect when that law was enacted. Being a grandfathered health plan means that this Plan may not include certain consumer protections of the Affordable Care Act that apply to other plans – for example, the requirement for the provision of preventive health services without any cost sharing. However, grandfathered health plans must comply with certain other consumer protections in the Affordable Care Act – for example, the elimination of lifetime limits on benefits. Questions regarding which protections apply and which protections do not apply to a grandfathered health plan and what might cause a plan to change from grandfathered health plan status can be directed to the Plan Administrator at 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. You may also contact the Employee Benefits Security Administration, U.S. Department of Labor at 1-866-444-3272 or www.dol.gov/ebsa/ healthreform. This website has a table summarizing which protections do and do not apply to grandfathered health plans. 10 Seafarers LOG 11767_Log.indd 10 employee, you may also elect COBRA for a certain period of time when the employee loses coverage; or if you are going to lose coverage because of a divorce or the death of the employee; or in the case of a child of an employee, the child reaches an age at which the Plan no longer considers him or her to be a “dependent child.” In the case of a divorce or the death of an employee, you must notify the Plan within 60 days of the divorce or death in order to be eligible to purchase continuation coverage. If you do not notify the Plan in a timely manner, you may not be eligible to receive further cov- September 2012 8/23/2012 10:04:59 AM �E ditor’s note: The October and November 2011 and March, May and June 2012 editions of the Seafarers LOG featured the first five installments of an occasional series written by retired mariner Ed Woods, who first shipped out at age 16, during World War II. LOG readers were introduced to Woods’ writing when he shared a separate story that was published off and on from September 2010 to July 2011. “Recollections from the Murmansk Run” is a combination of Woods relaying the accounts of an old shipmate and filling in the blanks “with what I think could have taken place, based on my own war-time experiences at sea. For this reason, I call this narrative a non-fiction novel.” This month’s entry is the final installment. The names of the main character (Johnny Johnston) and his vessels are fictional. The most recent excerpt ended with Johnston and some of his shipmates from the S/S John Henry (which had been torpedoed) now sailing from an icy group of islands called Franz Josef Land aboard the British ship HMS Henry 8th en route for Liverpool, where they hoped to get berths aboard any vessel heading back to the United States. The World War II convoys to the Russian ports of Murmansk and Archangel were dangerous and often deadly. Dozens of American-flag ships were sunk on the Murmansk Run, including many SIU-crewed vessels. Altogether, it is believed that 57 Allied ships were lost in convoys to north Russia. That afternoon, a lookout shouted, “Submarine dead ahead!” The alarms went off and we ran to the boat deck, as we had not been assigned to a battle station. The British gunners started firing as soon as the sub was identified as a German U-Boat. The sub appeared to be dead in the water; no torpedo was in sight but the U-Boat’s deck gun was firing at us. I couldn’t believe what was happening; the HMS Henry 8th turned ninety degrees and headed straight for the U-Boat. We hit it in the middle and it spilt in two. The two parts sank almost immediately and then we heard over our loud speakers, “Stand by to pick up survivors.” We could see five or six men struggling in the water off our port side. Our deck crew dropped lifelines and then launched a small boat. They were able to pick up five German sailors who had been on the sub’s deck when we rammed it. The other German sailors were not able to escape and went down with the wreckage. The prisoners were brought to the mess hall for interrogation and we learned why their sub had been dead in the water. The day before, they had been in a duel with a British destroyer and had suffered heavy damage when the destroyer dropped depth charges. The sub’s engines were damaged and they lost both propulsion and their air supply. They stayed on the bottom overnight until they believed the destroyer had left the area. They then surfaced, as the men were beginning to suffocate from lack of oxygen. The Henry 8th damaged its bow when it rammed the sub. The captain decided we would head for the nearest landfall, as he could not determine the extent of the damage. It would be Reykjavík, Iceland; Iceland’s biggest city and capital. Mr. Smith was elated with the news. He told us the United States Coast Guard had port facilities and the United States Army had air bases on the island. “It looks like we will all be back home in the States very shortly.” Two days later, we arrived in Reykjavík and when Mr. Smith went to see the captain to thank him for bringing us here from Jan Mayen, he was surprised when asked who was going to reimburse the HMS Henry 8th for our passage and board. Mr. Smith nearly was at a loss for words. However, he replied in a polite tone, “Sir, we are at war. We are supposed to be allies. We are expected to help one another. I don’t know who will reimburse you and frankly, I don’t care. Thank you and goodbye.” Smith got directions to the U.S. Coast Guard headquarters. It was about a mile-anda-half from our pier and we, the eight known remaining survivors of the John Henry, walked to it, as there was no transportation available. We identified ourselves to the sentry at the entrance to the Coast Guard compound and asked to see the officer in charge. The sentry, a Coast Guard enlisted man, asked to see our identification papers. We explained that all our personal belongings and papers had been lost when our ship the S/S John Henry went down to the bottom of the Barents Sea courtesy of a German U-Boat. September 2012 11767_Log.indd 11 The sentry made a phone call and within a few minutes, a jeep arrived with a Coast Guard Commander who began to interrogate us. We explained who we were and how we came to be here in Iceland. He said, “I am sorry but under the circumstance, I can’t ask you inside our compound, but allow me a few minutes to make some calls and I will see what can be done. Please be patient.” He went inside the sentry’s shed and shut the door. A short time later, he returned and said, “I have arranged for you to be taken to the American Embassy. They are in a better position to help you.” “By the way, I want you to know why I was hesitant to assist you at first. We have been warned by our intelligence section to be by two armed Marines. Right off, something about the man rubbed me the wrong way. He held his chin too high in the air to suit me. “Well now, I am Percy Buller, the attaché of the day, what is this all about?” he asked with an arrogant air. Chief Mate Smith started to answer him when Buller suddenly said, “Stop right there. I really don’t want to hear your fabrications. The State Department’s Intelligence Section warned us to expect you to show up here and I am prepared to deal with it. In addition, believe me, I know how to deal with spies and saboteurs. If you prefer to talk in German, your native language, I can converse with you. I am fluent in German.” “What in hell are you talking about?” Recollections From the Murmansk Run Now in his 80s, Ed Woods (above) was 16 when he shipped out as a merchant mariner during World War II. alert for German spies and saboteurs coming here posing as lost seamen and so forth. It was said they were chosen for their fluency in English and their knowledge of the United States. You men fit that description. However, I have checked your backgrounds and have verified what you have told me.” We were driven to the offices of the American Consulate where we learned that Iceland had recently obtained its independence from Denmark. It was now a free and independent country. We were surprised to learn that the personnel at the consulate were mostly Icelanders. We had expected all of them to be Americans; however, we were told that only the top envoys were American citizens. A pleasant elderly Icelander, Hans Erickson, listened to our story and said, “I will do whatever is necessary and in my means to give you aid and comfort.” He explained that previously, while America had maintained a huge military presence in Iceland, it only had a very small consulate. However, now that Iceland was independent, the United States was building an embassy for the newly appointed ambassador and adding more American employees. Hans asked us to wait while he contacted the American Attaché on duty for the day. In a few minutes, a well-dressed man about 35 years old entered the room accompanied Smith shouted. “We’re American citizens, survivors of two ships sunk by the Germans. I want to see the ambassador right now.” “The ambassador is not in residence and if he were, you still could not talk with him. I am in charge.” With that, he told the Marines to escort us to the holding room.” I decided to speak up and said, “Sir, my name is Johnny Johnson. I am a native New Yorker. I was a wiper in the engine room of the American oil tanker the S/S Pine Hill. The Pine Hill was hit by a German bomb in Liverpool, England, and set on fire. The ship was taken to a nearby repair yard and its crew, including me, was asked to volunteer to sail on another ship. I did so and was assigned to the S/S John Henry and joined a convoy bound for Murmansk, Russia. Later, we were engaged in a fight with a German U-Boat and sank it but the darn sub blew our bridge off before it went down and we lost control of the ship for a short time. We sailed to the nearest friendly port, a godforsaken island named Franz Josef, and had to deal with a bunch of unfriendly Russians. From there we went to Spitsbergen and the Norwegians, real nice guys, helped us to make temporary repairs and gave us some fuel. “We started for England but were hit by a torpedo and the John Henry split in two and sank. We took to the lifeboats; the next morning it was foggy and we didn’t see any other boats. Eight of us made it to the Norwegian island named Jan Mayen. There had been 10 survivors but two died in the lifeboat. We don’t know if any of the other crew members of the John Henry survived, although I sure hope they did. There was an American weather team on Jan Mayen and they and the local Norwegians helped us. After a few weeks, a British ship, the Henry 8th, arrived with supplies for the folks on the island and agreed to take us to England. Unfortunately, the Henry 8th also was in a fight with a German U-Boat; it sank the sub but damaged its bow. It came here to Reykjavík for repairs and to drop us off so we can get transportation back to the States. I know the American authorities in London are aware of all this and if you will contact them, I am sure they will tell you that Chief Mate Smith and all of us are telling you the truth and nothing but the truth.” Smith looked at me in wonder and then smiled. I think he was surprised that I spoke up. In the past, I was considered a kid doing maintenance work in the engine room. I was never asked for an opinion and I never gave one. Now, Smith and the other six guys appeared amazed that I could speak out and explain the events of the months in a rational manner. That afternoon, one of the deckhands, Mike Kiely from Boston, told Chief Smith that he felt very sick. The chief felt his head and said it was very warm. He called for a guard and told him to get medical help for Mike immediately. The guard, a young Marine, said he would report it to the O.D. (officer of the day). An hour passed and nobody came to Mike’s assistance. Chief Smith began to scream, “We need help here and we need it now. All of you bastards are going to pay for this. I’ll see to it or I’ll die doing so.” A Marine came and told him to be quiet. By now, Mike was lying on the floor and groaning. “Help me, please help me,” he cried. He was wet with perspiration and soon quieted; it was obvious that he had passed out. There was nothing we could do to help him. There was no source of water in the cell-like room to cool his skin. The chief bent down to try to comfort him and took note that he was not breathing. “He’s dead! He’s dead!” the chief shouted. “The bastards have let him die.” A young Marine officer came to the door and asked, “What is the problem in there?” We shouted nearly in unison, “We have a dead man in here, thanks to you.” The Marine officer, Lieutenant Swift, entered the room, examined Mike’s body and told the guard to call for a stretcher. They took Mike’s body away. The lieutenant said he would have the medical doctor determine the cause of death. As he was leaving, he said, “I want you to understand, I am in charge of the Marine detachment guarding this embassy. However, I have nothing to do with the embassy staff’s policies or what decisions they make other than those that affect my men. In the meantime, I have asked our mess steward to bring you some food and drink.” A short time later, two Icelanders escorted by an armed guard brought us trays of food and hot coffee. We neither heard nor saw anyone until the following morning when an older American who identified himself as Dr. Liebling, the official embassy physician, came to tell us that, following an autopsy, it was learned that Mike had died due to a ruptured appendix. As he was leaving the room, Dr. Liebling said, “If we had known of the man’s condition sooner, we may have been able to save him.” It was obvious that not one of us knew what to say. We were all too upset. Poor Mike had suffered through so many months of despair, lost at sea in a lifeboat, stranded on strange foreign islands and then making it to a supposedly friendly country and be treated like the enemy. What hurt all of us the most was the fact that if Mike had been treated when he first complained, he could have been saved and lived to go home. Chief Smith suggested that we all say a prayer and he led us in saying an Our Father. I wanted to cry but I knew I was not supposed to. I thought the other men would not understand; I fought back the tears. Smith asked the Marine guard to ask Lieutenant Swift to please return and speak with him. When he arrived, Chief Mate Smith introduced himself and asked Swift to please listen to what he had to say. He then recited almost word for word what I had told Buller, the attaché. Continued on Page 14 Seafarers LOG 11 8/23/2012 10:05:00 AM �Seafarers Support Stand For America Rally in Philadelphia S eafarers were among tens of thousands of union leaders, members, and supporters Aug. 11 who gathered in Philadelphia’s Fairmount Park to participate in the Workers Stand for America rally. More than 30 unlicensed apprentices from the union-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md., along with some 70 rank-and-file SIU members from the Philadelphia and New York areas, joined some 40,000 American workers during the event. Also representing the union were SIU Vice President Atlantic Region Joseph Soresi, Piney Point Port Agent Pat Vandegrift, Philadelphia Port Agent Joe Baselice and Port of New York Safety Director Mark von Seigel. Collectively, those attending the rally advocated “America’s Second Bill of rights” (a right to full employment, a living wage, participation in the electoral process, the right to organize and collectively bargain, the right to a quality education and the right to decent social services) and unrestricted access to the opportunity for each. They also urged all elected officials and all Americans in general to sign their names in support of those values and make them the foundations of America’s future national economic and social policies. In addition to President Obama, who appeared in a pre-taped video message, official rally speakers included AFL-CIO President Richard Trumka; U.S. Representatives Debbie Wasserman Schultz (D-Fla.) and Bob Brady (D-Pa.); Edwin Hill, International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers President; Building and Construction Trades Department President Sean McGarvey and several labor movement activists. Their mutual message was one of activism and the need to rise up and fight back against deteriorating wages, outsourced jobs, corporate greed, inequality, and the uncomfortable feelings people experience when they are being pushed into economic devastation. “It was a tremendous event,” said Soresi. “Labor clearly spoke out about the state of the economy and the devastating impact it is having on all Americans, especially working people. “I heard a number of things that if implemented will make life much better for working people. Organizers should be congratulated for a job well done,” he concluded. “Let’s hope that this outing and others like it will achieve their desired results.” Vandegrift, who was in charge of the trainees from the Paul Hall Center, echoed Soresi’s views, adding, “This was truly a rally to remember and the turnout was very impressive. I thought all of the speakers were right on point with their message; they had the full support and backing of everyone who attended. “I’m glad that some of our trainees had the opportunity to attend this rally because it gave them their first real exposure to the labor movement and what solidarity really means,” he said. “Hopefully, they will remember this experience and incorporate the lessons they learned from it into their careers as Seafarers.” 12 Seafarers LOG 11767_Log_X.indd 12-13 September 2012 Apprentices from the Paul Hall Center (photo above) were among the approximately 40,000 people who gathered in Philadelphia Aug. 11 for a peaceful but powerful demonstration promoting America’s working families. AFL-CIO President Richard Trumka (photo at top right) delivered remarks to the masses, many of whom are pictured in the remaining photos. September 2012 Seafarers LOG 13 8/24/2012 12:03:02 PM �Cub Scouts Learn About Maritime Class members participate in fire emergency training at the Joseph Sacco Fire Fighting and Safety School, part of the Paul Hall Center. Grads Reflect on PHC Experience Continued from Page 8 said. “I want to thank the union leadership and instructors for everything they do.” Fogg told the apprentices they are embarking on an important path. “You are our future and we really hold that in our hearts,” he said. “Please respect and look out for each other.” Mensah, who’s sailed out of Wilmington since joining the SIU in 1997, said the union – and the accompanying training – helped him carve out a better life for his family. “Through them I was able to send my wife to school and get a couple of things for myself,” he said. “I would like to thank all of them here. I’ve learned a lot.” Mensah recommended the trainees take every opportunity to learn and help each other. He also reminded them of how valuable their work skills and job opportunities were during such a tough economic period. “If you don’t understand anything, ask questions,” he said. “That’s what we are there for – so we can help each other with good seamanship.” Addressing the audience following the bosuns’ speeches, SIU President Michael Sacco praised the graduates for their eloquence. Their success, he added, exemplified the SIU’s core purpose. “That’s what this union is all about,” he said. “Educating and upgrading people and making a better life for each and every one of us.” The Port Arthur International Seafarers Center recently teamed up with Kansas City Southern Railways and the Port of Port Arthur for an all-day event that included lessons about the maritime industry and its connections to other businesses. As part of the occasion, Cub Scouts and chaperones informally met in Port Arthur with SIU tugboat Capt. Chris Thibodeaux (leaning on rail of Seabulk’s Nike), who discussed the importance of safety and also described different types of tugboats and the work they perform. Mariner Recalls Days at Sea During World War II Continued from Page 11 He ended by asking Swift to call the maritime authorities in London as they are aware of our previous difficulties and had been expecting us before the Henry 8th was damaged. He could also contact the Henry 8th’s captain. “I’m sure the ship is still in port and he can verify the fact that he picked us up at Jan Mayen Island and carried us here,” Smith said. “I understand your status here at the embassy and I will not ask you to do anything for us that would jeopardize your position. All I ask is for you to make the necessary inquiries that will confirm our identities.” That very afternoon, Swift arrived together with Hans Erickson and told us that he had been able to verify all that we had told the embassy staff and that he had reported his findings to Buller, and that we were free to go. “Go where?” Smith asked. Erickson said to come up to his desk and he would help us. Hans made a few phone calls and we were taken to a small hotel and told we could stay there until arrangements were made for our return to the States. We thanked him and the lieutenant for their faith in us. The hotel had a restaurant that served breakfast and dinner. It was good food except, at the end of the week, we had tired of eating fish. There were other items on the menu: dairy products, chicken, etc., but very little beef or pork. The hotel had a spa in a room near the lobby that featured warm, almost hot water pumped in from the natural hot springs outside of the city. We used the hot tubs every day, sometimes twice. It felt so good, especially when I recalled the freezing days in the lifeboat and the unheated huts on the islands in the Barents Sea. A few days later, we were summoned to the new embassy by American Assistant Ambassador Anthony F. Martone. He told us that the ambassador and he had learned of our plight and wanted to make amends. “First, I want to tell you that Percy Buller has been relieved of his duties at the 14 Seafarers LOG 11767_Log.indd 14 embassy and is being returned to the States under guard.” He continued, “Buller not only mishandled your arrival in Reykjavík, and severely mistreated you, but it was discovered that he had misappropriated huge sums of money from the embassy’s treasury to pay for his illicit activities. Buller was a compulsive gambler, and apparently not a very good one. He also paid the rent for his girlfriend’s apartment with embassy’s funds.” He continued, “Now for some good news. I have arranged for the seven of you to go to a local men’s store and be fitted with all new clothes courtesy of the good people of Iceland. Tomorrow night, you are invited to the grand opening party of our new embassy building. Please come an hour before the party so that a staff member or I can fill you in on the rules of protocol when meeting members of the Icelandic government and the ambassador and his wife. It is also quite possible that dignitaries from other counties may attend, although they have not yet acknowledged their invitations.” I couldn’t believe what I was hearing. Here I was, Johnny Johnson from New York City, being invited to a party at the American embassy. Wow! At the men’s shop, we were fitted with dress clothes: new suits, shirts, ties, and underwear, the best I ever had, and then told to select whatever work clothes we would need to replace the ones we had lost at sea. The next evening, we were given a warm greeting by everyone we met at the embassy. However, I could sense that the various diplomats and their staff were merely being polite and were pleased to see us leave when we said our thank and goodbyes. The following week, we were called by the embassy and told to be prepared to fly home the next day. There was room for seven more passengers on an Army plane leaving for Washington, D.C., and seats had been reserved for us. When we arrived in Washington, the seven of us said our goodbyes and each went his separate way. I took a train to New York’s Pennsylvania Station and then a subway car to my home on the west side. I had telephoned my folks from Washington and told them of my arrival back in the States and they were waiting for me with open arms. Boy, it really felt good to be safely back home with my family. There was a letter from Larry waiting for me at the house. He was alive and well. He explained that he gotten my home address from the Maritime Service. It read: Dear Johnny, I was so happy to hear from the government that you were alive. The day the John Henry went down, I wasn’t able to make it to a lifeboat and had to swim for it. Three of us, two deckhands and me were able to climb on a free-floating raft. I never knew how cold one could be until I sat on the raft for a couple of hours. There was a heavy fog all about us and we couldn’t see a thing. Then, suddenly, a ship came alongside of us, a Russian destroyer! It took us aboard and a medic treated us for hypothermia. I was never too fond of Russians, especially after the way they treated us at Franz Joseph Land, but I have to say I was happy to see them that day. Anyway, I finally made it to Murmansk, although not the way I expected to. I tried to make inquiries about you and the other guys but the Russians said they didn’t know a thing. I don’t know whatever became of the two deckhands that were rescued with me. The Russians don’t like to give out any information. After a few weeks, I got a ride back to the States on an old freighter. I guess I have to tell you, I had to have one of my legs amputated because gangrene had set in when it was frozen. This means I won’t be going back to sea. I’m home here in Ames, Iowa, trying to get used to my new artificial leg. I’m enclosing my address and hoping that maybe one day you can get to come here and visit with me. We sure will have a lot to talk about. By the way, when I was in the hospital in Murmansk, I heard that there had been an attempt to exchange prisoners between the Russians and the Germans. A friendly Russian Red Cross representative allowed me to read the proposed list of names because he knew that some of the names were American. I was happy to see Captain Behlmer’s name listed. The Red Cross rep said that when he visited the prisoner of war camp he met Captain Behlmer, who told him that he and three others had been picked up by a German submarine. Behlmer told him that he did not know what became of the three crewmen because they were considered enlisted men and sent to a different camp. The rep didn’t copy the other names from Captain Behlmer and the prisoner exchange never came about. I sure hope Captain Behlmer made it. He was a good man and always gave us a fair deal. I hope this letter finds you in good health. You proved to be a good friend and I’m happy to know you made it back home. Your friend, Larry I was very happy to hear that good old Larry made it home but I was sorry to hear that he had lost a leg. Someday, I hope to go out there to Iowa and see him. He’s right; we’ll have a lot to talk about. While I was home in New York, I spent an entire month visiting my family, my friends and my old school buddies, filling them with stories of my first trip to sea. A few of my older friends seemed skeptical when I related my days in the lifeboat and life on islands in the northern seas. Then it was time to get back to sea and help win the war. I went downtown to the crewing office and obtained a wiper’s berth on a newly built oil tanker. The day we left port, I learned we were heading for the Panama Canal and would be crossing over to the Pacific. I wondered what next was in store for me. September 2012 8/23/2012 10:05:12 AM �October & November Membership Meetings Dispatchers’ Report for Deep Sea July 16, 2012 - August 15, 2012 Piney Point........*Tuesday: October 9, Monday: November 5 Algonac............................Friday: October 12, November 9 Port Baltimore.........................Thursday: October 11, November 8 Guam..........................Thursday: October 25, November 22 Honolulu...........................Friday: October 19, November 16 Houston.......Monday: October 15, * Tuesday: November 13 Jacksonville...................Thursday: October 11, November 8 Joliet.............................Thursday: October 18, November 15 Mobile......................Wednesday: October 17, November 14 New Orleans.....................Tuesday: October 16, November 13 New York........................Tuesday: October 9, November 6 Norfolk..........................Thursday: October 11, November 8 Oakland........................Thursday: October 18, November 15 Philadelphia...............Wednesday: October 10 , November 7 Port Everglades............Thursday: October 18, November 15 San Juan.........................Thursday: October 11, November 8 St. Louis............................Friday: October 19, November 16 Tacoma.............................Friday: October 26, November 23 Wilmington.......................Monday: October 22, November 19 * Piney Point change created by Columbus Day holiday. * Houston change created by Veterans Day holiday. Each port’s meeting starts at 10:30 a.m. Personal Brandon Maeda would like to get in touch with Wagner Pellerin. Please contact Brandon at brandonmaeda@gmail.com ATTENTION SEAFARERS : SPAD Fights For You! SIU Contribute To The Seafarers Political Activity Donation SPAD September 2012 11767_Log_X.indd 15 Total Registered All Groups A B C Total Shipped All Groups Trip A B C Reliefs Registered on Beach All Groups A B C Deck Department 20 13 2 11 4 1 2 1 2 1 1 1 6 5 1 7 9 1 20 18 2 20 11 1 9 5 0 2 0 0 5 3 5 5 3 1 39 14 4 44 10 2 36 27 4 27 14 1 7 2 1 5 5 0 15 3 1 16 2 2 9 1 1 15 6 0 45 19 6 36 13 3 22 25 9 17 21 4 25 3 2 17 2 0 8 6 4 7 3 2 3 4 0 2 3 0 7 8 2 5 4 1 47 10 7 33 10 3 5 2 1 2 1 1 33 22 3 27 14 2 363 191 57 299 136 26 1 28 20 1 1 3 2 2 6 5 1 3 5 31 19 3 0 12 8 1 1 11 4 5 20 73 28 7 8 62 37 4 1 4 3 2 3 18 6 1 3 19 1 3 20 76 29 9 6 32 32 12 9 41 10 7 3 10 5 2 1 1 2 0 3 10 12 3 18 61 19 7 0 6 2 1 15 64 34 20 124 567 274 93 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS Engine Department 6 5 4 4 3 0 3 0 0 0 7 7 0 3 5 13 7 0 11 5 1 1 0 0 0 4 6 1 10 3 11 19 0 11 9 26 20 3 20 18 2 3 0 2 2 12 3 0 9 1 4 3 0 6 2 21 13 1 13 5 15 16 4 8 12 10 7 2 4 4 6 1 1 2 1 1 1 0 2 0 1 8 0 2 4 18 5 1 16 3 3 2 1 1 1 10 12 2 9 10 171 142 20 133 88 3 0 2 3 0 0 6 9 1 2 0 0 7 1 0 0 4 9 1 4 52 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS Steward Department 7 1 1 0 1 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 4 3 0 0 2 0 11 6 1 4 4 0 3 2 0 2 0 0 8 5 0 7 2 0 17 9 0 16 2 0 16 9 1 11 5 0 1 1 0 2 1 0 4 0 1 3 1 0 4 1 1 2 1 0 16 4 0 13 6 0 18 9 3 9 6 0 23 2 2 13 1 1 3 1 0 5 0 0 2 2 0 1 1 0 1 0 0 3 1 0 21 6 2 20 4 1 2 3 0 1 2 0 22 4 1 18 3 0 183 68 13 130 43 3 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS Entry Department 4 12 8 0 3 6 3 8 27 20 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 1 0 1 0 0 1 1 0 0 1 2 1 9 4 0 3 1 0 1 14 4 0 1 1 0 3 0 1 0 2 0 2 6 6 0 5 5 1 4 8 10 2 11 5 3 7 0 1 6 19 9 0 21 10 0 13 1 4 3 27 22 0 1 2 0 1 2 1 1 0 2 1 4 3 1 2 0 0 1 5 2 0 2 2 0 1 2 0 2 4 6 4 19 12 4 11 7 3 10 48 37 1 32 15 1 15 16 0 1 30 47 2 10 7 2 5 1 1 2 22 10 0 3 2 0 1 1 0 0 2 2 0 5 0 0 4 3 0 0 8 3 1 0 1 0 0 0 0 2 2 4 5 7 2 2 10 1 5 10 14 8 0 3 0 0 2 0 0 0 1 0 3 14 6 1 9 2 3 12 29 27 26 161 86 14 97 49 23 63 263 216 GRAND TOTALS: 743 562 176 576 364 93 252 1,189 833 364 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS 1 0 1 0 0 1 1 1 1 0 0 2 1 1 0 0 0 1 2 2 15 7 4 6 0 3 1 5 7 0 18 9 2 5 1 0 13 11 0 32 21 4 34 25 8 4 3 0 9 4 0 6 3 1 32 24 4 23 22 4 20 14 3 6 1 1 0 1 0 2 18 0 25 13 1 4 2 1 22 26 2 267 212 38 0 8 2 5 0 0 1 0 0 5 5 0 3 16 6 1 1 6 3 1 3 16 6 0 5 30 9 0 6 27 12 1 0 1 1 0 0 9 1 2 1 6 1 1 8 36 6 0 3 23 11 3 6 27 5 2 1 4 1 0 0 3 0 0 3 4 0 0 8 29 5 0 0 3 3 0 5 39 6 1 53 292 84 17 Seafarers LOG 15 8/24/2012 12:01:54 PM �Inquiring Seafarer Seafarers International Union Directory Michael Sacco, President Augustin Tellez, Executive Vice President David Heindel, Secretary-Treasurer George Tricker, Vice President Contracts Tom Orzechowski, Vice President Lakes and Inland Waters Dean Corgey, Vice President Gulf Coast Nicholas J. Marrone, Vice President West Coast Joseph T. Soresi, Vice President Atlantic Coast Kermett Mangram, Vice President Government Services HEADQUARTERS 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746 (301) 899-0675 ALGONAC 520 St. Clair River Dr., Algonac, MI 48001 (810) 794-4988 ANCHORAGE 721 Sesame St., #1C, Anchorage, AK 99503 (907) 561-4988 This month’s question was answered by SIU members at the Jacksonville hall. Question: What is your favorite part of your day/routine while out to sea? Gregory Howard Oiler After watch, I like to go to the stern and look at the sunset or watch the sunrise in the mornings. Usually, I head to the stern and relax for about an hour or so. I like to watch the dolphins play. It’s just to relax and clear my mind. GUAM P.O. Box 3328, Hagatna, Guam 96932 Cliffline Office Ctr. Bldg., Suite 103B 422 West O’Brien Dr., Hagatna, Guam 96910 (671) 477-1350 HONOLULU 606 Kalihi St., Honolulu, HI 96819 (808) 845-5222 JACKSONVILLE 5100 Belfort Rd., Jacksonville, FL 32256 (904) 281-2622 JOLIET 10 East Clinton St., Joliet, IL 60432 (815) 723-8002 MOBILE 1640 Dauphin Island Pkwy, Mobile, AL 36605 (251) 478-0916 NEW ORLEANS 3911 Lapalco Blvd., Harvey, LA 70058 (504) 328-7545 NEW YORK 635 Fourth Ave., Brooklyn, NY 11232 (718) 499-6600 Government Services Division: (718) 499-6600 NORFOLK 115 Third St., Norfolk, VA 23510 (757) 622-1892 OAKLAND 1121 7th St., Oakland, CA 94607 (510) 444-2360 PHILADELPHIA 2604 S. 4 St., Philadelphia, PA 19148 (215) 336-3818 good. I enjoy feeding people and cooking. I feed them good. It’s like having your own business out at sea. We have some good times with each other. Marcel Soares Oiler My favorite part of the day is working in the engine room and learning about all the machinery. We go over the diagrams and semantics and we’re learning something new every day. I like working with the engineers and my fellow shipmates. We’re able to feed off each other and help each other out. Willie Massaline Steward Lunchtime is probably my favorite part of the day. I get an opportunity to see how people will react to what’s on the menu and see how they enjoy what we do. I like to be creative with the lunch menu BALTIMORE 2315 Essex St., Baltimore, MD 21224 (410) 327-4900 HOUSTON 1221 Pierce St., Houston, TX 77002 (713) 659-5152 and I like to see people come down and see the different selections. Edward Porter Steward My favorite part of the day is the morning time. I get up, fix breakfast, see everybody and make everybody feel the office. It’s a unique type of work and I’m blessed to be able to do that type of work. Michael Deren Oiler I love everything. I like being in the engine room. I like working with equipment and working in a team as an oiler. It’s very important to have a good interaction between you and your co-workers. There’s always something you can learn. James Rush AB/Maintenance My favorite part of the day is just being out on deck doing different jobs. It may vary – sometimes in the mornings it’s better than the afternoons. But overall, it’s like another day at Pics-From-The-Past Pensioner Laureano Capelo Perez recently came across an old newspaper article and related photos that he subsequently mailed to the LOG. The snapshots are from a late October 1956 voyage aboard the Steel Chemist; Perez is pictured in the photo at left while some of his shipmates are in the other two photos below. The article, from a Baltimore newspaper, pointed out that the Steel Chemist was carrying seven Marylanders when the vessel traversed the Suez Canal “during the first days of the Israeli-Egyptian fighting, without anyone aboard being aware of the world-shaking events taking place around them.” Those events, known as the Suez Crisis of 1956, saw Egypt seize control of the canal from the British- and French-owned company that managed it, which the U.S. Department of State describes as having “had important consequences for U.S. relations with both Middle Eastern countries and European allies.” Perez was listed as a messman on that voyage aboard the Steel Chemist, but he spent most of his 34-year SIU career as a member of the engine department. He joined the union in 1954 and became a U.S. citizen in 1957. PINEY POINT P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674 (301) 994-0010 PORT EVERGLADES 1221 S. Andrews Ave., Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33316 (954) 522-7984 SANTURCE 1057 Fernandez Juncos Ave., Stop 16 Santurce, PR 00907 (787) 721-4033 ST. LOUIS/ALTON 4581 Gravois Ave., St. Louis, MO 63116 (314) 752-6500 TACOMA 3411 South Union Ave., Tacoma, WA 98409 (253) 272-7774 WILMINGTON 510 N. Broad Ave., Wilmington, CA 90744 (310) 549-4000 If anyone has a vintage union-related photograph he or she would like to share with other Seafarers LOG readers, please send it to the Seafarers LOG, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. Photographs will be returned, if so requested. High-resolution digital images may be sent to webmaster@seafarers.org 16 Seafarers LOG 11767_Log.indd 16 September 2012 8/23/2012 10:05:17 AM �Welcome Ashore Each month, the Seafarers LOG pays tribute to the SIU members who have devoted their working lives to sailing aboard U.S.-flag vessels on the deep seas, inland waterways or Great Lakes. Listed below are brief biographical sketches of those members who recently retired from the union. The brothers and sisters of the SIU thank those members for a job well done and wish them happiness and good health in the days ahead. DEEP SEA JAMES BERNACHI Brother James Bernachi, 65, joined the SIU in 1975 while in the port of St. Louis. He initially sailed with Inland Tugs. Brother Bernachi was born in St. Louis and shipped in the deck department. He upgraded often at the Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md. Brother Bernachi’s most recent trip was on the American Merlin. He lives in Cahokia, Ill. DONALD BYRD Brother Donald Bryd, 68, started his SIU career in 2001 as the NMU was merging into the Seafarers. The deck department member primarily worked with Keystone Shipping Service. In 2008, Brother Bryd attended classes at the Piney Point school. He calls Mobile, Ala., home. JOSEPH CALLAGHAN Brother Joseph Callaghan, 66, began sailing with the union in 1968. His first trip was on the OMI Sacramento. Brother Callaghan worked in the engine department. His most recent voyage was aboard the 1st Lt. Jack Lummus. Brother Callaghan makes his home in the Philippines. GUADALUPE CAMPBELL Sister Guadalupe Campbell, 65, signed on with the Seafarers in 1991 in New Orleans. She originally sailed aboard the Liberty Star. Sister Campbell shipped in the engine department. In 1999, she upgraded her skills at the SIU-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. Sister Campbell’s last trip was on the Brenton Reef. She is a resident of Kenner, La. EDWARD COLLINS Brother Edward Collins, 64, donned the SIU colors in 1967. The steward department member’s first trip was with South Atlantic Caribbean. Brother Collins attended classes on numerous occasions at the Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md. Prior to his retirement, he worked aboard the Eagle. Brother Collins resides in Spring, Texas. PERRY ELLIS Brother Perry Ellis, 65, became an SIU member in 1966. He originally sailed on the Fairport. Brother Ellis September 2012 11767_Log.indd 17 enhanced his skills on two occasions at the maritime training center in Piney Point, Md. He sailed in the engine department. Brother Ellis’ final ship was the Maersk Maryland. He calls Gainesville, Fla., home. DON FILONI Brother Don Filoni, 65, joined the Seafarers in 1991. He was employed with Waterman Steamship Corporation for the duration of his career. Brother Filoni worked in the deck department. He attended classes in 1993 at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Filoni lives in Welaka, Fla. RANDOLPH LLANES Brother Randolph Llanes, 65, was born in Manila. He began shipping with the SIU in 1979. Brother Llanes first worked on Tyco’s Long Lines. He was an engine member department member. Brother Llanes’ last voyage was aboard the Horizon Falcon. He now makes his home in Oakland, Calif. WILLIAM LOWERY Brother William Lowery, 65, started sailing with the union in 1997. He sailed in the deck department. In 2001, Brother Lowery took advantage of educational opportunities at the SIUaffiliated school in Piney Point, Md. He most recently shipped on the Observation Island. Brother Lowery is a resident of Pensacola, Fla. MICHAEL PECK Brother Michael Peck, 59, signed on with the SIU in 1974. He initially worked aboard a Rye Marine vessel. Brother Peck was born in Fort Worth, Texas, and sailed in the deck department. He attended classes frequently at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. Before his retirement, Brother Peck shipped on the Oakland. He resides in American Canyon, Calif. JUAN ROSARIO Brother Juan Rosario, 69, became an SIU member in 1968 while in the port of New York. He originally shipped aboard the Jefferson City. Brother Rosario sailed in all three departments during his career. He enhanced his seafaring abilities in 1985 and 2001 at the unionaffiliated school in Piney Point, Md. Brother Rosario’s final ship was the Horizon Navigator. He calls Bethle- INLAND Liberty Glory. He makes his home in Laplace, La. hem, Pa., home. CHARLES SADLER Brother Charles Sadler, 67, donned the SIU colors in 1998. His first vessel was the Maersk Tennessee; his most recent, the Liberty Glory. Brother Sadler was a member of the engine department. He upgraded often at the Piney Point school. Brother Sadler lives in St. Augustine, Fla. CARLOS SIERRA Brother Carlos Sierra, 66, joined the Seafarers in 1991. He initially sailed on the Sealift Mediterranean. Brother Sierra is a native of Honduras. The steward department member upgraded his skills on two occasions at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Sierra most recently shipped aboard the ROBERT SUTHERLAND Brother Robert Sutherland, 63, began shipping with the SIU in 1998. His first trip was on the Del Sud. Brother Sutherland worked in the steward department. His most recent voyage was aboard the Liberty Grace. Brother Sutherland is a resident of New Orleans. RONALD VANTRESS Brother Ronald Vantress, 65, started his SIU career in 1969 while in New Orleans. He originally worked on the Del Uruguay. Brother Vantress sailed in the deck department. His last trip was aboard the Robert E. Lee. Brother Vantress settled in Tallahassee, Fla. RUDOLPH WINFIELD Brother Rudolph Winfield, 66, signed on with the Seafarers in 1965. He initially sailed on the Cottonwood Creek. Brother Winfield sailed in the steward department. Prior to his retirement; Brother Winfield sailed aboard the Quality. He calls Norfolk, Va., home. DONALD AUTERY Brother Donald Autery, 59, donned the SIU colors in 1989. The deck department member sailed with Allied Transportation Company for the vast majority of his career. In 2002 and 2007, Brother Autery took advantage of educational opportunities at the SIU-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. He resides in South Mills, N.C. WILLIAM DEKKER Brother William Dekker, 58, became a Seafarer in 1981 in Norfolk, Va. His first trip was aboard a vessel operated by Lynnhaven Service Inc. Brother Dekker attended classes on two occasions at the SIU-affiliated school. He sailed in the deck department. Brother Dekker last worked on a Great Lakes Dredge & Dock’s boat. He lives in Chesapeake, Va. Continued on Page 20 This Month In SIU History Editor’s note: The following items are reprinted from previous editions of the Seafarers LOG. 1948 The Atlantic and Gulf District of the Seafarers International Union is hale and hearty as it approaches the 10th anniversary of its founding. It is, in fact, in sounder shape than at any other time in its history. It enjoys the distinction of being perhaps the most formidable organization of maritime workers bound together by joint purpose of any waterfront group in the nation. The most pointed example is when the SIU netted a $12.50 across-the-board pay wage increase for all hands and $25 for bosuns. In every instance, bold moves were overwhelmingly supported by the membership, which saw each of the moves pay dividends. 1963 Upholding long-standing SIU and industry protests that the Cargo Preference Act and other U.S. shipping legislation was being bypassed at the expense of the American-flag fleet, top government officials in the persons of Vice President Lyndon Johnson and Attorney General Robert Kennedy have rallied behind the maritime industry in its fight to obtain a fair share of government-financed cargo ships. The vice president, on a goodwill tour this month through the Scandinavian countries, lashed back at European critics of U.S. shipping legislation – specifically the 50-50 law – and emphasized the right of the U.S. government to “assure our nation of a private maritime capacity.” At the same time … the attorney general took a big step on Sept. 9 in plugging a loophole developed by the agriculture department in interpreting the 50-50 law. He ruled that cargo preference for U.S. ships not only applies to foreign aid shipments on a government-to-government basis, but also on surpluses financed by the federal government and sold to foreign traders as “private” transactions. 1981 This country’s first big demonstration of the 1980s was one organized by the AFL-CIO. Its success was obvious when on Sept. 19 – Solidarity Day – a huge crowd of approximately 300,000 workers, civil rights activists and other concerned citizens marched on the nation’s capital. They were protesting the administration’s budget cuts that will end many of the social benefits for which workers have struggled, as well as weaken the rules that help protect their safety on the job. The SIU, which provided the security for the march, sent several hundred Seafarers from New York, Philadelphia, Baltimore, Norfolk and the Harry Lundberg School of Seamanship in Piney Point, Md. 1996 A last-minute effort to gut the Jones Act appears to be blocked in the House of Representatives because of widespread bipartisan support among the panel and sub-committee members who have jurisdiction over a newly introduced bill. Just hours before members of the House and Senate left Capitol Hill in early August for their summer recess, Rep. Nick Smith (R-Mich.) introduced the Coastal Shipping Competition Act. Chances for movement of H.R. 4006 may be minimal because of an April 15 statement of support for the Jones Act signed by 15 legislators, including the complete membership of the House Merchant Marine Oversight Panel. Seafarers LOG 17 8/23/2012 10:05:19 AM �Final Departures DEEP SEA CHARLES ARASA Brother Charles Arasa, 51, passed away March 22. He first donned the SIU colors in 2001 in San Francisco. Brother Arasa’s earliest trip was on the Global Mariner. The steward department member most recently worked aboard the USNS Bowditch. Brother Arasa was a resident of Stockton, Calif. JOHN AVERSA Pensioner John Aversa, 83, died March 5. Brother Aversa was born in New York. He started sailing with the SIU in 1952. Brother Aversa was first employed with Blidberg Rothchild Company. He worked in the deck department. Brother Aversa’s last voyage was aboard the Developer. He began collecting his retirement compensation in 1994. Brother Aversa settled in Summerfield, N.C. WILLIAM CRUICKSHANK Pensioner William Cruickshank, 72, passed away March 16. Brother Cruickshank joined the union in 1962. He initially shipped aboard the Mt. McKinley. Brother Cruickshank was a deck department member. His final ship was the Westward Venture. Brother Cruickshank retired in 2004. He was born in Ohio but resided in the Philippines. ment. His final trip was on the Ultra Max. Brother Edwards started receiving his retirement compensation in 2002. He lived in Wagram, N.C. MARCELO EIMAR Pensioner Marcelo Eimar, 95, passed away March 26. Brother Eimar was a native of the Philippines. He started sailing with the union in 1955. Brother Eimar’s first trip to sea was on the Ft. Hoskins. He shipped in the engine department. Brother Eimar last worked aboard the Santa Maria. He became a pensioner in 1981 and called the Philippines home. MARVIN EMANS Pensioner Marvin Emans, 83, died April 26. Brother Emans was born in Minnesota. He began sailing with the union in 1972 in the port of New York. Brother Emans’ earliest trip was on the Noma. The engine department member’s final trip was aboard the Galveston. Brother Emans retired in 1985 and resided in Edmonds, Wash. CRISTOBAL GARCIA Brother Cristobal Garcia, 70, passed away April 3. He joined the SIU in 2001 during the SIU/NMU merger. Brother Garcia, who worked in the steward department, last sailed on the Green Dale. He was a resident of Ocon Park, N.Y. CHARLES DANDRIDGE GEORGE HAMMOCK Pensioner Charles Dandridge, 92, died March 1. Brother Dandridge was born in Alabama. He began his seafaring career in 1951 while in Mobile, Ala. He originally shipped on the Chiwawa and primarily sailed in the deck department. Prior to his retirement in 1979, Brother Dandridge worked on the Columbia. He was a resident of Mobile. Pensioner George Hammock, 92, died April 2. Brother Hammock became a Seafarer in 1948 in Norfolk, Va. He initially shipped with Waterman Steamship Corporation. A member of the deck department, Brother Hammock last sailed aboard the Jefferson Davis. He went on pension in 1984 and called Tampa, Fla., home. ERNEST DUHON AHMED HUSSAIN Pensioner Ernest Duhon, 66, passed away April 7. Brother Duhon became a Seafarer in 1965. His first vessel was the Del Norte; his last, the Horizon Fairbanks. Brother Duhon, who sailed in the deck department, went on pension in 2007. The New Orleans native made his home in Longview, Wash. Pensioner Ahmed Hussain, 72, passed away March 11. Brother Hussain first donned the SIU colors in 1977 in Jacksonville, Fla. He originally sailed on the Inger. The steward department member last shipped aboard the Westward Venture. Brother Hussain retired in 2000 and lived in Tacoma, Wash. BOBBY EDWARDS JAMES MCLINDEN Pensioner Bobby Edwards, 74, died April 15. Brother Edwards joined the SIU in 1960. His earliest voyage was aboard the Cottonwood Creek. Brother Edwards was born in North Carolina and sailed in engine depart- Pensioner James McLinden, 88, died April 11. Brother McLinden, a Pennsylvania native, joined the union in 1943 while in Mobile, Ala. He initially shipped on a Calmar Steamship vessel. Brother McLin- 18 Seafarers LOG 11767_Log_X.indd 18 den sailed in the deck department. His last ship was the Beaver State. Brother McLinden went on pension in 1985 and resided in Philadelphia. ARMANDO MONCADA Pensioner Armando Moncada, 78, passed away March 23. Brother Moncada joined the SIU ranks in 1973 while in New Orleans. The steward department member’s first trip to sea was aboard the Belgium Victory. Brother Moncada last shipped on the Stonewall Jackson. He started collecting his pension in 1999 and made his home in Honduras. GEORGE OBERLE Pensioner George Oberle, 76, died March 1. Brother Oberle began his seafaring career in 1967 in the port of Baltimore. He originally sailed with Interocean American Shipping Company. Brother Oberle worked in the deck department. He last shipped on the Global Mariner. Brother Oberle became a pensioner in 2001 and lived in Baltimore. LEIF PEDERSEN Pensioner Leif Pedersen, 76, passed away March 11. He was born in Denmark. Brother Pedersen started sailing with the SIU in 1991. He initially shipped aboard the Sealift China Sea as a member of the deck department. Brother Pedersen’s final ship was the Nantucket Shores. He retired in 2002 and settled in Pearl River, La. ERNEST PURAS Pensioner Ernest Puras, 90, died March 7. Brother Puras became a union member in 1954. He sailed in the deck department of vessels operated by Waterman Steamship Corporation including the Fairport and Jefferson Davis. Brother Puras began receiving his retirement compensation in 1981. He called Laredo, Texas, home. DUANE STEVENS Brother Duane Stevens, 60, passed away March 21. He first donned the SIU colors in 1972. Brother Stevens initially sailed aboard the Trans Oneida. A member of the deck department, he was last employed on the Nuevo San Juan. Brother Stevens made his home in Loranger, La. FELIPE TORRES Pensioner Felipe Torres, 78, died March 7. Brother Torres joined the union in 1966. He shipped with Gulf Canal Line during his early years. Brother Torres was born in Richmond, Texas, and sailed in the engine department. Before retiring in 1996, he sailed on the Overseas Arctic. Brother Torres was still a resident of Richmond. JOHN WHITED Pensioner John Whited, 90, passed away March 29. Brother Whited, a native of Tennessee, began sailing with the SIU in 1951. His first voyage was aboard the Alcoa Ranger. Brother Whited was a deck department member. His final trip was on the Del Mar. Brother Whited retired in 1976 and continued to reside in Tennessee. INLAND GUS BREAUD Pensioner Gus Breaud, 86, died March 23. Brother Breaud was born in Reserve, La. He joined the SIU in 1962 while in New Orleans. Brother Breaud primarily shipped with National Marine Service. In 1983, he went on pension and settled in Norco, La. ELBERT DAVIS Pensioner Elbert Davis, 84, passed away April 16. Brother Davis started his SIU career in 1967. He originally worked with Steuart Transportation Company. Brother Davis sailed in the deck department. Prior to his retirement in 1994, he shipped on a Mariner Towing vessel. Brother Davis lived in Nashville, Tenn. MATTHEW HOBAN Brother Matthew Hoban, 49, died March 27. He became a union member in 2004. Brother Hoban sailed aboard the ITB Cleveland for the duration of his career. He worked in the engine department and called Cleveland, Ohio, home. AUBREY JORDAN Pensioner Aubrey Jordan 70, passed away March 31. Brother Jordan was born in Alabama. The deck department member joined the SIU in 1975 and sailed with Dravo Basic Materials. Brother Jordan became a pensioner in 2004. He was a resident of Range, Ala. sel. Brother Miholick made his home in Lemarque, Texas. THOMAS ODOM Pensioner Thomas Odom, 91, passed away April 9. Brother Odom first donned the SIU colors in 1962. He mainly worked with Dravo Basic Materials Company. Brother Odom started collecting his pension in 1983. He continued to reside in his native state of Alabama. LOLA PINKSTON Pensioner Lola Pinkston, 83, died April 21. Sister Pinkston began sailing with the union in 1981. She was born in Arkansas. Sister Pinkston was a steward department member. She originally shipped with Heartland Transportation. Sister Pinkston was last employed by Orgulf Transport Company. She retired in 1993 and lived in Bruceton, Tenn. JAMES ROLIN Brother James Rolin, 57, passed away April 24. He joined the SIU in 1977, initially sailing aboard a Dixie Carriers vessel. Brother Rolin shipped in the deck department. His final trip was with Crowley Towing & Transportation of Wilmington. Brother Rolin was a resident of Harrison, Mich. BLAINE TOMPSON Brother Blaine Tompson, 37, died April 5. The deck department member started shipping with the union in 1994. Brother Tompson was primarily employed with Crescent Towing & Salvage of New Orleans. He called Louisiana home. JOSEPH ZOOK Pensioner Joseph Zook, 67, passed away April 7. Brother Zook was a Maryland native. He became an SIU member in 1973. Brother Zook first sailed with McAllister Towing of Baltimore as a member of the steward department. His most recent trip was on an Express Marine Inc. vessel. Brother Zook went on pension in 2011 and made his home in Baltimore. LAYTON CONAWAY Pensioner Layton Conaway, 88, died March 4. Brother Conway started sailing with the NMU in 1942. During his seafaring career he shipped aboard the Ticonderoga and the Robin Gray. Brother Conaway went on pension in 1970. He made his home in Cocoa, Fla. JAMES MIHOLICK Brother James Miholick, 60, died April 10. He began sailing with the union in 1988. Brother Miholick’s earliest trip was with Bay Houston Towing. He last worked in the deck department of a G&H Towing ves- September 2012 8/24/2012 12:01:57 PM �Digest of Shipboard Union Meetings USNS BRUCE HEEZEN (3PSC), June 16 – Chairman Robert Natividad, Secretary Abraham Mills, Educational Director Dencio Cayan, Engine Delegate Derrick Hurt, Steward Delegate Marta Williams. Chairman thanked crew members for safe voyage. Secretary thanked crew for helping keep ship clean and good cooperation all around. Educational director reminded mariners to go to Paul Hall Center in Piney Point for upgrading, and also to check expiration dates and renew documents on time. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Bosun reminded Seafarers to use the member portal on the SIU website and also to check the main site for the latest issue of the LOG. Crew passed a motion thanking SIU President Michael Sacco “for a great job in securing a new standard contract.” Crew asked for clarification about operating deck machinery. They said better internet service is needed at sea and in port. Crew thanked steward department for good job. The Seafarers LOG attempts to print as many digests of union shipboard minutes as possible. On occasion, because of space limitations, some will be omitted. Ships’ minutes first are reviewed by the union’s contract department. Those issues requiring attention or resolution are addressed by the union upon receipt of the ships’ minutes. The minutes are then forwarded to the Seafarers LOG for publication. Remembering Brother Saunders On July 5, Seafarers and officers on the Alliance St. Louis paused to remember the late Recertified Bosun James W. Saunders, who passed away earlier this year at age 62. A traditional shipboard memorial service took place aboard the Maersk Line, Limited vessel during a voyage that began in Jacksonville, Fla., and Brother Saunders’ remains were committed to the sea. A few photos from the service are shown here, courtesy of vessel master Capt. F.B. Goodwin. The Alliance St. Louis was the bosun’s last ship – he sailed aboard it in the spring. OCEAN TITAN (Crowley), June 17 – Chairman Pablo Borja, Secretary Peter Schuetz, Educational Director Robert Flesey. Chairman pursuing verification concerning watchstanding question. He announced payoff scheduled for Houston and reminded departing crew members to clean their respective rooms. Secretary listed several items requested by crew, including equipment for crew mess. Educational director encouraged mariners to upgrade at unionaffiliated school in Piney Point, Md. No beefs or disputed OT reported. All hands expressed appreciation to steward department. Next port: Houston. HORIZON KODIAK (Horizon Lines), June 17 – Chairman Garry Walker, Secretary Lovie Perez, Educational Director Charles Wharton, Deck Delegate Daniel Lovely, Engine Delegate Dennis Adjetey, Steward Delegate Fakhruddin Malahi. Somewhat ironically, chairman cautioned mariners to beware of Kodiak bears while ashore, as more sightings are being reported. Secretary encouraged members to visit SIU website, where Seafarers can check their sea time, medical eligibility, dues status and much more. Educational director said, “Upgrade at Piney Point. It’s there for you.” Treasurer reported $4,460 in ship’s fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew suggested increasing pension benefits. They tanked SA Talama Moega for keeping linen lockers neat and clean. Next ports: Tacoma, Wash.; Anchorage, Alaska; and Kodiak, Alaska. HORIZON DISCOVERY (Horizon Lines), June 17 – Chairman Wilfredo Velez, Secretary Michael Amador, Educational Director Eric Bain, Deck Delegate William Brown, Engine Delegate Anthony Thomas, Steward Delegate Alex Cordero. Chairman discussed email notifications available from the Coast Guard concerning expiration dates of MMDs/MMCs. He said payoff at sea is scheduled for tomorrow, and announced the new standard contract takes effect July 1. Secretary thanked crew for keeping areas clean at all times, and praised chief cook and SA for jobs well done. Educational director urged fellow members to upgrade “as soon as you can. If you are ready, Piney Point is ready for you.” No beefs or disputed OT reported. President’s September 2012 11767_Log.indd 19 report from most recent issue of Seafarers LOG was read. Crew asked that minimum retirement age be lowered. Vote of thanks given to galley gang. Next port: Jacksonville, Fla. ALLIANCE BEAUMONT (Maersk Line, Limited), June 24 – Chairman Thomas Banks, Secretary Charles Brooks, Deck Delegate Charles Collins, Steward Delegate Larry Griffin. Chairman reminded crew to leave rooms and laundry clean for reliefs. Educational director urged mariners to keep documents current and take advantage of upgrading opportunities at Piney Point. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew urged union to protect customary overtime as it relates to new resthour requirements in the Manila Amendments to the STCW Convention. Crew thanked steward department for barbecues and overall outstanding job. They also thanked electrician for keeping AC running in good order on Middle East run. Next port: Beaumont, Texas. SEALAND CHARGER (Maersk Line, Limited), June 30 – Chairman Robert Pagan, Secretary Allen Hollinger, Educational Director Matt Ditullio, Deck Delegate Nagi Musaid. Chairman announced upcoming payoff. He reminded mariners to carry TWIC cards during shore leave in U.S. ports. He thanked steward department for job well done and said port agent is scheduled to come aboard with copies of new contract. Secretary reminded everyone to keep documents current and training record book up-to-date. He also reminded members to stay current on dues. He mentioned the TSA’s new extended expiration date TWIC, available beginning in August. Educational director encouraged mariners to upgrade in Piney Point, Md. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew asked for clarification about STCW-related regulations. They requested new mattresses. Next ports: Los Angeles and Oakland, Calif. SEABULK ARCTIC (Seabulk Tankers), June 30 – Chairman Ronald Paradise, Secretary Alan Bartley, Educational Director Reginald Hunter, Deck Delegate Francisco Rochez, Engine Delegate Lakisha Barnes, Steward Delegate Mario Fernandez. Chairman gave vote of thanks to deck department and said they’ve “been working very hard and everything looks great.” He reminded crew to check net on gangway before raising or lowering, to make sure net isn’t hung in rollers. Crew and officers signed letter asking for transportation from ship to gate in Port Arthur, Texas, without cost to mariners. Secretary asked crew to continue helping keep mess hall and crew lounge clean. He also said if anyone wants a particular menu item, just ask and steward will try his best to get it. Educational director encouraged everyone to upgrade at Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, renew documents before they expire, and contribute to SPAD. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew thanked steward department for job well done. Next port: Tampa, Fla. EVERGREEN STATE (Crowley), July 1 – Chairman Gregory Jenkins, Secretary Tyrell Thabit, Educational Director Montree Nakwichet, Steward Delegate Demetrio Faulve. Chairman informed crew of scheduled wage increase and discussed changes to manning scale. Educational director encouraged eligible mariners to upgrade at Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md.; course information is listed in Seafarers LOG. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew suggested reducing requirements for pension eligibility. Next port: Long Beach, Calif. USNS HENSON (3PSC), July 7 – Chairman Mark Grzegorczyk, Secretary Marlon Battad, Educational Director Kevin Lewis, Engine Delegate Michael Durago, Steward Delegate Salvador Deguzman. Chairman stated danger-pay issue has been resolved amicably. He said ship had a good trip, and acknowledged Chief Cook Deguzman and OS Mahlik Rogers for their hard work. He also encouraged members to donate to SPAD and MDL. Secretary thanked everyone for helping keep public areas neat and clean. Educational director urged fellow members to upgrade their skills at the Paul Hall Center; related forms are available on the ship. He reminded everyone to keep documents current, and explained the new extended expiration date TWIC. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Chairman read SIU President Michael Sacco’s column from latest LOG and encouraged all members to read each edition to keep up with union matters. Chairman discussed importance of awareness and safety while in port. He thanked galley gang for job well done and great barbecues every Sunday. Engine department asked crew to report any drain issues early. Next port: Pusan, Korea. HORIZON PRODUCER (Horizon Lines), July 11 – Chairman Tommie Benton, Secretary Kristin Krause, Educational Director Angel Hernandez. Crew asked for clarification concerning wage increases for Horizon vessels. Secretary explained vessel’s trash policy. Educational director reiterated request to have patrolman or other official clarify wage increases. No disputed OT reported. Crew suggested reducing requirements to qualify for pension, and to add cost-of-living increases to pension benefits. They also suggested changes to how contracts are negotiated and how they’re presented to crews. Seafarers LOG 19 8/23/2012 10:05:25 AM �Welcome Ashore Each month, the Seafarers LOG pays tribute to the SIU members who have devoted their working lives to sailing aboard U.S.-flag vessels on the deep seas, inland waterways or Great Lakes. Listed below are brief biographical sketches of those members who recently retired from the union. The brothers and sisters of the SIU thank those members for a job well done and wish them happiness and good health in the days ahead. Continued from Page 17 MICHAEL FLEMING Brother Michael Fleming, 62, joined the union in 1968 while in the port of New Orleans. Brother Fleming originally sailed in the deep sea division as a member of the deck department. His first ship was operated by Hudson Waterways Corporation. Brother Fleming upgraded in 1968 at the Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md. Prior to his retirement, he worked with Mariner Towing. Brother Fleming settled in Hot Springs Village, Ariz. JAMES FRANCESCHI Brother James Franceschi, 66, started sailing with the SIU in 1974. He initially shipped with Wade Towing Inc. Brother Franceschi was a member of the deck department. He most recently sailed aboard a Mariner Towing vessel. Brother Franceschi makes his home in Laguna Vista, Texas. HEINZ GLEIXNER Brother Heinz Gleixner, 57, began his SIU career in 1976. He first sailed with Crowley of Puerto Rico. Brother Gleixner worked in the engine department. His most recent trip was aboard a vessel operated by Crowley Towing & Transportation. Brother Gleixner is a resident of Bayamon, P.R. MARK HALLAHAN Brother Mark Hallahan, 58, signed on with the union in 1981. He initially sailed on the Manhattan Island. In 2001, Brother Hallahan took advantage of educational opportunities at the Piney Point school. He last shipped aboard the Terrapin Island. Brother Hallahan calls New Smyrna Beach, Fla., home. EDWARD HAYWOOD Brother Edward Haywood, 55, joined the SIU in 1996 while in the port of Philadelphia. He was mainly employed with Crowley Liner Services during his career. Brother Haywood resides in Blackwood, N.J. WILLIAM HUDGINS Brother William Hudgins, 63, was born in Virginia. He became an SIU member in 1993 in Norfolk, Va. Brother Hudgins primarily shipped with Allied Transportation Company. He frequently attended classes at the Piney Point school. Brother Hudgins worked in both the steward and deck departments. He settled in Cardinal, Va. ROY LINDLEY Brother Roy Lindley, 58, donned the SIU colors in 1969. He sailed with G&H Towing for the duration of his career. Brother Lindley was an engine department member. He enhanced his skills in 1977 at the union-affiliated school. Brother Lindley lives in Ingleside, Texas. STEVEN MITCHELL Brother Steven Mitchell, 55, joined the union in 1981 in Piney Point, Md. His earliest trip was with Higman Barge Lines. Brother Mitchell last sailed with Crowley Towing & Transportation of Jacksonville. The deck department member makes his home in Florida. JOHN MULLEN Brother John Mullen, 62, is a native of North Carolina. He signed on with the SIU in 1976. Brother Mullen enhanced his skills frequently at the Paul Hall Center. He was mainly employed as a member of the deck department with Allied Transportation Company. Brother Mullen calls Engelhard, N.C., home. DOUGLAS REYNOLDS Brother Douglas Reynolds, 62, began sailing with the union in 1978. His first trip was on a Tug Management Corporation vessel. Brother Reynolds worked in the deck department. He upgraded his skills at the Piney Point school several times. Brother Reynolds’ most recent trip was aboard an Allied Towing vessel. He resides in Webster, Fla. the deck department. Brother Rosser enhanced his seafaring abilities in 1991 and 1992 at the unionaffiliated school in Piney Point, Md. His final ship was operated by Turecamo Maritime. Brother Rosser lives in Waggaman, La. SALVATORE SAGGESE Brother Salvatore Saggese, 57, donned the SIU colors in 1996 while in Philadelphia. He mostly sailed with Crowley Liner Services. Brother Saggese was born in Pennsylvania. He settled in Cinnaminson, N.J. RICHARD SALTER Brother Richard Salter, 71, started sailing with the SIU in 2004. He was originally employed by Penn Maritime Inc. In 2004, Brother Salter took advantage of educational opportunities available at the Piney Point school. He is a resident of Saraland, Ala. WALLACE ROSSER Brother Wallace Rosser, 62, became an SIU member in 1970. He sailed in Know Your Rights FINANCIAL REPORTS. The Constitution of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU makes specific provision for safeguarding the membership’s money and union finances. The constitution requires a detailed audit by certified public accountants every year, which is to be submitted to the membership by the secretary-treasurer. A yearly finance committee of rank-and-file members, elected by the membership, each year examines the finances of the union and reports fully their findings and recommendations. Members of this committee may make dissenting reports, specific recommendations and separate findings. TRUST FUNDS. All trust funds of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU are administered in accordance with the provisions of various trust fund agreements. All these agreements specify that the trustees in charge of these funds shall equally consist of union and management representatives and their alternates. All expenditures and disbursements of trust funds are made only upon approval by a majority of the trustees. All trust fund financial records are available at the headquarters of the various trust funds. SHIPPING RIGHTS. A member’s shipping rights and seniority are protected exclusively by contracts between the union and the employers. Members should get to know their shipping rights. Copies of these contracts are posted and available in all union halls. If members believe there have been violations of their shipping or seniority rights as contained in the contracts between the union and the employers, they should notify the Seafarers Appeals Board 20 Seafarers LOG 11767_Log.indd 20 by certified mail, return receipt requested. The proper address for this is: Augustin Tellez, Chairman Seafarers Appeals Board 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 Full copies of contracts as referred to are available to members at all times, either by writing directly to the union or to the Seafarers Appeals Board. CONTRACTS. Copies of all SIU contracts are available in all SIU halls. These contracts specify the wages and conditions under which an SIU member works and lives aboard a ship or boat. Members should know their contract rights, as well as their obligations, such as filing for overtime (OT) on the proper sheets and in the proper manner. If, at any time, a member believes that an SIU patrolman or other union official fails to protect their contractual rights properly, he or she should contact the nearest SIU port agent. EDITORIAL POLICY — THE SEAFARERS LOG. The Seafarers LOG traditionally has refrained from publishing any article serving the political purposes of any individual in the union, officer or member. It also has refrained from publishing articles deemed harmful to the union or its collective membership. This established policy has been reaffirmed by membership action at the September 1960 meetings in all constitutional ports. The responsibility for Sea­farers LOG policy is vested in an editorial board which consists of the executive board of the union. The executive board may delegate, from among its ranks, one individual to carry out this responsibility. PAYMENT OF MONIES. No monies are to be paid to anyone in any official capacity in the SIU unless an official union receipt is given for same. Under no circumstances should any member pay any money for any reason unless he is given such receipt. In the event anyone attempts to require any such payment be made without supplying a receipt, or if a member is required to make a payment and is given an official receipt, but feels that he or she should not have been required to make such payment, this should immediately be reported to union headquarters. CONSTITUTIONAL RIGHTS AND OBLIGATIONS. Copies of the SIU Constitution are available in all union halls. All members should obtain copies of this constitution so as to familiarize themselves with its contents. Any time a member feels any other member or officer is attempting to deprive him or her of any constitutional right or obligation by any methods, such as dealing with charges, trials, etc., as well as all other details, the member so affected should immediately notify headquarters. EQUAL RIGHTS. All members are guaranteed equal rights in employment and as members of the SIU. These rights are clearly set forth in the SIU Constitution and in the contracts which the union has negotiated with the employers. Conse­quently, no member may be discriminated against because of race, creed, color, sex, national or geographic origin. If any member feels that he or she is denied the equal rights to which he or she is entitled, the member should notify union headquarters. SEAFARERS POLITICAL ACTIVITY DONATION (SPAD). SPAD is a separate segregated fund. Its proceeds are used to further its objects and purposes including, but not limited to, furthering the political, social and economic interests of maritime workers, the preservation and furthering of the American merchant marine with improved employment opportunities for seamen and boatmen and the advancement of trade union concepts. In connection with such objects, SPAD supports and contributes to political candidates for elective office. All contributions are voluntary. No contribution may be solicited or received because of force, job discrimination, financial reprisal, or threat of such conduct, or as a condition of membership in the union or of employment. If a contribution is made by reason of the above improper conduct, the member should notify the Seafarers International Union or SPAD by certified mail within 30 days of the contribution for investigation and appropriate action and refund, if involuntary. A member should support SPAD to protect and further his or her economic, political and social interests, and American trade union concepts. NOTIFYING THE UNION — If at any time a member feels that any of the above rights have been violated, or that he or she has been denied the constitutional right of access to union records or information, the member should immediately notify SIU President Michael Sacco at headquarters by certified mail, return receipt requested. The address is: Michael Sacco, President Seafarers International Union 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746. September 2012 8/23/2012 10:05:27 AM �Paul Hall Center Upgrading Course Information The following is the schedule of courses at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md., for the next few months. All programs are geared to improving the job skills of Seafarers and to promoting the American maritime industry. Please note that this schedule may change to reflect the needs of the membership, the maritime industry and—in times of conflict—the nation’s security. Students attending any of these classes should check in the Saturday before their course’s start date. The courses listed here will begin promptly on the morning of the start dates. For classes ending on a Friday, departure reservations should be made for Saturday. Seafarers who have any questions regarding the upgrading courses offered at the Paul Hall Center may call the admissions office at (301) 994-0010. Title of Course Title of Start Date of Course Date Completion Safety Courses Advanced Firefighting September 15 September 21 September 22 September 28 October 27 November 2 December 1 December 7 Basic Firefighting/STCW September 15 September 21 October 13 October 19 November 3 November 9 December 1 December 7 Deck Department Able Seaman October 13 November 9 ARPA October 27 November 2 ECDIS September 29 October 5 December 8 December 14 GMDSS November 24 December 7 Lifeboatman/Water Survival September 15 September 28 October 13 October 26 November 11 November 23 December 8 December 21 Radar Observer October 13 October 26 Radar Renewal (One day) November 6 November 6 STOS September 15 September 28 Engine Department Basic Auxiliary Plant Operations (BAPO) September 15 October 12 November 10 December 7 FOWT October 13 November 9 Start Date Date of Completion Serve Safe September 29 October 5 Chief Cook These modules start every other week. The next class begins September 10. Galley Operations/Advanced Galley Operations These modules start every Monday. The next classes will begin September 3. Government Vessels September 29 October 5 November 24 November 30 Medical Care Provider September 22 September 28 September 29 October 5 November 3 November 9 December 8 December 14 Tank PIC Barge December 8 December 14 NMC Website Provides Useful Mariner Resources The National Maritime Center (NMC), the licensing authority for the U.S. Coast Guard, offers a comprehensive website covering mariner credentialing, medical guidelines and much more. The site features a wide range of applications and forms, deck- and engine-department exam information, lists of Coast Guard-approved courses and more. Seafarers are encouraged to check out the site at:http://www.uscg.mil/nmc/ Mariners may call the NMC at 1-888-IASKNMC (1-888-427-5662). Operational hours are 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. EST, Monday through Friday. (The NMC is closed for all federal holidays.) Various email forms also are available through the NMC website. Machinist August 18 September 7 Marine Electrician October 20 December 14 Pumpman September 8 September 21 Welding September 15 October 5 October 20 November 9 November 24 December 14 Steward Department Chief Steward October 13 Name_________________________________________________________________________ Address_______________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________ Telephone (Home)_________________________ (Cell)_________________________ Date of Birth___________________________________________________________________ Deep Sea Member o Lakes Member o Inland Waters Member o If the following information is not filled out completely, your application will not be processed. Social Security #_______________________ Book #__________________________________ Seniority_____________________________ Department_____________________________ Home Port____________________________________________________________________ E-mail_______________________________________________________________________ Endorsement(s) or License(s) now held_____________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________ Are you a graduate of the SHLSS/PHC trainee program? o Yes o No If yes, class #___________________________________________________________________ Have you attended any SHLSS/PHC upgrading courses? o Yes o No If yes, course(s) taken____________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________ With this application, COPIES of the following must be sent: One hundred and twenty-five (125) days seatime for the previous year, one day in the last six months prior to the date your class starts, USMMD (z-card) front and back or relevant pages of merchant mariner credential, front page of your union book indicating your department and seniority, qualifying seatime for the course if it is Coast Guard tested, 1995 STCW Certificate, valid SHBP Clinic Card and TWIC. 11767_Log.indd 21 Students who have registered for classes at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, but later discover - for whatever reason - that they can’t attend, should inform the admissions department immediately so arrangements can be made to have other students take their places. November 23 UPGRADING APPLICATION September 2012 Important Notice COURSE ____________________________ START DATE _______________ DATE OF COMPLETION _______________________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________________ LAST VESSEL: ___________________________________ Rating: ____________________ Date On: _______________________________ Date Off:____________________________ SIGNATURE ____________________________________ DATE______________________ NOTE: Transportation will be paid in accordance with the scheduling letter only if you present original receipts and successfully complete the course. If you have any questions, contact your port agent before departing for Piney Point. Not all classes are reimbursable.Return completed application to: Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education Admissions Office, P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674-0075; or fax to (301) 994-2189. The Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education is a private, non-profit, equal opportunity institution and admits students, who are otherwise qualified, of any race, nationality or sex. The school complies with applicable laws with regard to admission, access or treatment of students in its programs or activities. 9/12 Seafarers LOG 21 8/23/2012 10:05:28 AM �Paul Hall Center Classes Unlicensed Apprentice Water Survival Class 761 – Fourteen Phase I and Phase III unlicensed apprentices completed their requirements in this course July 6. Those graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Ahmed Yahya Ali, Justin Biggerstaff, Lars Edvardsen, Aaron Ellis, George Erwin Jr., Adrain Fraccarolli, Bernard Hall, James Hargrove, William McCrory, Ammar Mohamed, Ali Musid, Chad Parks, Edward Seelig and Joseph Turcketta. Class Instructor Ben Cusic is at the far right. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Welding – Nine upgraders graduated from this course July 27. Completing their requirements (above, in alphabetical order) were: Jose Bonita, Felix Garcia, Fernando Ortega, Orlando Pajarillo Jr., Melvin Ratcliff, Salah Saleh, Thomas Swayne, Gregory Thomas and Timothy Van Pelt II. Buzzy Andrews, their instructor, is at the far left. FOWT – The following upgraders (above, in alphabetical order) finished this course July 20: John Bodden, Mashanda Carr, Keith Carswell, James Cronk III, William Gibson, Febian Jefferson, Ian Jordan, Andre Mitchell and Deralle Watson. Their instructor, Tim Achorn, is standing at the far right. STOS – Eight individuals completed this course July 27. Those graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Kevin Blackman, Carlos Cayetano, Chantell Dawson, Derek Gomez, Howard Guilliams, Clint Omisong, Diomedes Vigo and DeMilton Wheat. Class Instructor Bernabe Pelingon is standing at the far left. Tankship Familiarization DL – Nine upgraders graduated from this course July 27. Completing their requirements (above, in alphabetical order) were: Darryl Bence, John Cedeno Jr., Fontanos Alejandro Ellison, Alonzo Griswell, Rommel Lopez, Mohsen Omer Mohamed, Kenneth Powell, Cornelio Villano Jr., and Fernandez Wilcox. Brad Wheeler, their instructor, is second from the left. Tankship Familiarization DL – Two classes of Phase III unlicensed apprentices and upgraders graduated from this course July 13. Finishing their requirements (above, in alphabetical order) were: Randy Baggs, Carmelo Calderon, Gary Congden, Randall Craig, Rio Cuellar, Clifford Evans, Jacob Gawne, Jason Horn, Rayshaun Hughes, Hamza Jinah, David McGuire, Yousef Mohamed, Robert Neff, Ronald Nicol, Justin Robertson, Jorge Roman, Robert Sale, Victor Sanchez, Harry Schrefer, Wiliam Sculley, Edward Smigielski, Ryan Taylor, Evgeny Umanskiy, Joshua Weiner and Justin Wilson. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Junior Engineer – Two classes of upgraders completed this course July 6. Those graduating (photo at right, in alphabetical order) were: Rafael Alvarez-Chacon, Benjamin Anderson, Brandy Baker-Days, Andrew Beach, Randy Corey, Eric Cunanan, Aleksander Djatschenko, Mark Fitzgerald, Felix Garcia, Fred Green, Marlon Green, Creg Gumanas, Derek Ivory, Kevin Kelly, Noorudin Muthala, Fernando Ortega, Jessie Parente, Lamar Pinckney, Elijah Stewart-Eastman, Richard Striverson, Timothy Van Pelt II, Labarron West, Pavis Whitley and Igor Yakunkov. Class Instructor Jay Henderson, is standing at the far right. (Note: Not all are pictured.) 22 Seafarers LOG 11767_Log_X.indd 22 September 2012 8/24/2012 12:02:04 PM �Paul Hall Center Classes BST – Fifteen Seafarers completed this course July 13. Graduating (photo at left, in alphabetical order) were: Abdulrub Atiah, Darryl Bence, Justin Biggerstaff, David Brewster, John Cedeno, Jose David, Ekow Doffoh, Albert Dulig, Kenneth Powell, Timothy Sexton, Richard Shelton, Jason Stutes, Cornelio Villano, Teena Werner and Fernandez Wilcox. Class Instructor Mark Cates is standing at the far right. Important Notice Students who have registered for classes at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, but later discover - for whatever reason - that they can’t attend, should inform the admissions department immediately so arrangements can be made to have other students take their places. Basic & Advanced Fire Fighting – Nine upgraders graduated from this course July 27. Those completing the required training (above, in alphabetical order) were: David Brewster, Martin Hamilton, Tobi Johnson, Eric Kjellberg, Worlise Knowles III, Keith McIntosh, Kirk Pegan, Stephen Prendergast and A.T.M. Zahid Reza. Class Instructors Wayne Johnson Jr., and Wayne Johnson Sr. are at the far left and far right, respectively. Radar Observer – The following upgraders (above, in alphabetical order) graduated from this course and received certificates July 27: Satchel Caffy, Donny Castillo, Stacy Murphy, Rudy Puerto and Keith Reeder. Water Survival – Three upgraders completed their requirements in this course July 6. Graduating (above, in no particular order) were: Jose Bonita, Daid Brewster and Diomedes Vigo. Class Instructor Ben Cusic is at the far left. Basic Rigging (Great Lakes Dredge & Dock) – Nine individuals from Great Lakes Dredge & Dock completed their requirements in this course July 20. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Michael Cuthbert, John Darby, Michael Dietz, Dudley Hyatt, James McKeithan, Richard Mills Jr., George Smith, Billy Spivey and David Sullivan. (Note: Not all are pictured.) September 2012 11767_Log.indd 23 Medical Care Provider – Six upgraders finished their requirements in this course Aug. 3. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Brandon Braam, David Brewster, Martin Hamilton, Worlise Knowles III, Keith McIntosh and Whitney Sheridan. Class Instructor Mark Cates is at the far right. ARPA – The following upgraders (above, in alphabetical order) completed this course Aug. 3: Satchel Caffy, Donny Castillo, Samantha Murphy, Stacy Murphy and Rudy Puerto. BST (Hawaii) –The following individuals (above, in alphabetical order) completed this course July 28 at the Seafarers Training Facility in Barbers Point, Hawaii: Matthew Altepeter, Vincente Delas Alas, Kimberly Freeman, Alexandra Glomb, Donald Highsmith, Rodel Inzo, David Klotz, Jessie Libatog, Vargese Martin Pallikkal, Jazmin Martinez, Aldean McFarlane, John Mitroff, Jeffory Morris, Brandon Poindexter, Jonathan Retzlaff, Matthew Schuyler, Josette Smith, Lauren Winship and Christopher Wolfe. Seafarers LOG 23 8/23/2012 10:05:41 AM �Volume 74, Number 9 September 2012 Paul Hall Center Course Dates Page 21 SIU Snapshots SPECIAL GUESTS ABOARD USNS CHARLTON – Steward/Baker Steve Parker reports that the USNS Charlton recently hosted performers from Diavolo Dance Theater, an internationally renowned modern acrobatic dance company based in Los Angeles. The performers climbed aboard the Ocean Shipholdings-operated vessel for an Independence Day cookout in Gwangyang, Korea, where they’d been dancing as part of a World Expo 2012 festival. “It was really good to host them, especially on the Fourth of July,” Parker noted. “After a month in Korea, they were really looking forward to a good barbeque, and we were proud to be able to provide it. I have never seen a group of people happier to be with fellow Americans and have good old-fashioned American food.” Some of the performers are pictured enjoying the meal and in the posed photo, while Parker (foreground) and Chief Cook Caezar Mercado are in the other photo. ABOARD MAERSK CALIFORNIA – Recertified Steward Juan Vallejo Hernandez (left in photo at left, with Chief Cook Benjamin Advincula, right, and SA Desmond Baptiste) emailed these pictures from the Maersk California. The large group photo above, taken after a union meeting, includes Bosun Basil Dsouza, AB Gary Cardillo, AB Morris Foster, AB Robert Taylor, GUDE Malek Mohamed, AB Larry Tharp, QMED Todd Favaza, GUDE Faisal Abdo, Vallejo Hernandez, Baptiste and Chief Cook Twanna Moody. The vessel was sailing from Jebel Ali to Kuwait. 11767_Log.indd 24 MEETING ON USNS HENSON – Following a recent union meeting aboard the 3PSC-operated USNS Henson, MDR Brandon Maeda (right in photo at right below with Chief Cook Salvador Deguzman) submitted these photos of Seafarers on the Navy-owned vessel. Seated from left to right in photo at left below are Bosun Mark Grzegorczyk and SA Joseph Martin; standing from left are Chief Steward Marlon Battad, OS Mahlik Rogers and OS Rico Ecalnir. Pictured from left in the photo above are OS Ecalnir, Storekeeper Eric Johnson, SA Edgar Castillo and Chief Cook Deguzman. 8/23/2012 10:05:48 AM � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Seafarers Log Issues 2010-2019 Description An account of the resource Volumes LXXII-LXXXI of the Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Seafarers Log Digital Copies Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 2010-2019 Document A resource containing textual data. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre text. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource September 2012 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES SEAFARERS SAIL ABOARD NEW JONES ACT TANKER UNION BACKS WORKERS STAND FOR AMERICA RALLY CMPI 610 NEGOTIATIONS CONCLUDE AMERICAN PHOENIX LANDS IN SIU FLEET SIU CREWS UP USNS WHEELER BIPARTISAN BILL AIMS TO REVERSE HARMFUL CUTS TO CARGO PREFERENCE LABOR DEPT. CREDITS PHC APPRENTICE PROGRAM AS ONE OF THE BEST UNION REMEMBERS LATE RETIRED OFFICIAL RIPOLL COMMITTEE REVIEWS NOMINATION CREDENTIALS FOR UPCOMING ELECTION STUDY LABELS COLLECTIVE BARGAINING AS KEY TO ‘PROSPERITY ECONOMICS’ SIU CONTRACTS STAY IN PLACE AS MAERSK ACQUIRES 3PSC AFL-CIO ASSERTS FEDERAL WORKERS HAVE SHOULDERED ENOUGH SACRIFICE CREDENTIALS APPROVED FOR CANDIDATES TO 25 UNION OFFICES REPORT OF CONSTITUTIONAL COMMITTEE PROCEDURES FOR OBTAINING SIU ABSENTEE BALLOT THREE GENERATIONS HEED A CALL TO SEA SIU RECOLLECTIONS FROM THE MURMANSK RUN SEAFARERS SUPPORT STAND FOR AMERICA RALLY IN PHILADELPHIA Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Seafarers Log Digital Copies Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 09/01/2012 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Newsprint Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context Vol. 74, No. 9 http://www.seafarerslog.org/archives/files/original/6827a682ecf0b27b1feccd591fbed10f.pdf 3c22bf9534c53ebc10a65e2c37c8af46 PDF Text Text Volume 74, Number 10 October 2012 ‘ Delivering Since 1938 ’ SIUNA Convention Celebrates Union’s History, Stresses Political Action, International Solidarity Delegates to the Seafarers International Union of North America convention met Sept. 11-12 in Piney Point, Md., where they spelled out strategies to advance the union’s causes and then elected officers. The convention’s theme, “Delivering Since 1938,” paid tribute to the union’s 75th anniversary, which is next year. In photo at right, SIUNA President Michael Sacco (right) and Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel (left) pose with guest speaker ITF President Paddy Crumlin, who urged delegates to continue fighting on behalf of working families. In photo below, SIU Executive VP Augie Tellez (left) congratulates U.S. Rep. Nick Rahall (D-W. Va.) on his convention address. Full coverage starts on page 3 and continues on pages 11-18. Union Gains Jobs As Crowley Buys 2 Jones Act Tankers Seafarers–contracted Crowley recently bought two brand new Jones Act tankers, a move that signals outright job gains for the SIU. The first tanker, the Pennsylvania, is pictured below and at right. Page 3. Ocean Atlas Safely Returns Home Page 4 11768_LOG.indd 1 Advisory Board News Page 5 SIU Election Info Pages 6-10 9/28/2012 11:53:11 AM �President’s Report Obama-Biden the Clear Choice By the time most Seafarers receive this edition of the LOG, Election Day will be less than a month away. It’s a crucial election for the maritime industry and for America’s working families, and we absolutely, positively must get out there and vote. For the last few months, I’ve taken every opportunity to let our members and other officials know that I believe the choice in the presidential race is crystal clear for anyone who supports a strong U.S. Merchant Marine. That choice is the ObamaBiden ticket, and that’s how I’ll be voting November 6. Please be clear on this point as well: Where the SIU is concerned, in no way is this about Democrats versus Republicans. As I said during our recent SIUNA convention, we aren’t a one-party organization. We proudly support those who support maritime, regardless of whether they’re Republicans, Democrats or Independents. We’ve always had friends on both sides of the aisle, and we always will. No clearer case can be made than the fact that the two previous presidents – one Democrat, one Republican – have toured the Paul Hall Center. It so happens that this year, we’ve got a pro-labor incumbent running against someone who is openly anti-union. Although President Obama hasn’t been perfect for our industry, I know we can work with him as well as with Vice President Biden, who always stood with us when he served in the Senate. Of course, the White House election is just one part of what’s up for grabs. One-third of the U.S. Senate is facing election, and so is the entire U.S. House of Representatives, plus the nearly countless state and local elections throughout the nation. Every one of those elections is important, and as we all know, every vote counts. So, once more, make sure you’re registered, and get out to the polls on November 6 in support of pro-maritime, pro-worker candidates. In the interim, participate in grassroots activities through the union halls, your local port maritime councils and the AFL-CIO. Our future depends on it. Welcome Home What a relief it was to know that the SIU-crewed Ocean Atlas safely returned home to the United States last month following an at-times tense detention in Venezuela. Our crew members and the AMO officers deserve tons of credit for making the best of a strange, challenging situation, and keeping their cool. I also appreciate our members’ acknowledgment of the union’s exhaustive efforts to bring everyone home – it wasn’t easy on this end, either, but cooperation, diplomacy, and justice prevailed. This is the latest example of our union’s motto: Brotherhood of the Sea. We stand together at all times, but never more so than when Seafarers are potentially in danger. Successful Convention Last but not least, I encourage all members to read about the SIUNA convention, and in particular the comments from our guest speakers. It was an energetic meeting Sept. 11-12 and I believe we took a realistic look at the challenges facing our industry, and responded by laying out viable, sensible strategies for tackling those challenges. As always, it won’t be easy. But as always, we’re up to the challenge. Volume 74, Number 10 October 2012 The SIU online: www.seafarers.org The Seafarers LOG (ISSN 1086-4636) is published monthly by the Seafarers International Union; Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU, AFLCIO; 5201 Auth Way; Camp Springs, MD 20746. Telephone (301) 899-0675. Periodicals postage paid at Southern Maryland 20790-9998. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to the Seafarers LOG, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. Communications Director, Jordan Biscardo; Managing Editor/Production, Jim Guthrie; Assistant Editor, Brian Ahern; Photographer, Harry Gieske; Administrative Support, Misty Dobry. Copyright © 2012 Seafarers International Union, AGLIWD. All Rights Reserved. The Seafarers International Union engaged an environmentally friendly printer for the production of this newspaper. 2 Seafarers LOG 11768_LOG_X2.indd 2 Seafarer Rights to Expand Globally Maritime Labor Convention Will Normalize Industry Things will soon change for the better for seafarers worldwide. An expansive collection of global standards was recently ratified by the International Labor Organization, a development that will have a profound impact on working conditions, health and safety issues among the world’s mariners. Set to go into effect August 2013, the Maritime Labor Convention, 2006 (MLC, 2006) will provide a global “bill of rights” to seafarers and normalize the industry internationally. “This is great news for the world’s more than 1.2 million seafarers,” said ILO Director General Juan Somavia. “It was a dream of the ILO as early as 1920, and I pay tribute to the international maritime community for having made it a reality.” The convention establishes minimum requirements for nearly every aspect of working conditions, including employment, hours of work and rest, accommodations, food, and health and medical care. To enforce those guidelines, state flag administrations will issue “Maritime Labor Certificates” following inspections and require ships to complete and maintain a “Declaration of Maritime Labor Compliance” on board. Such declarations will address issues involving seafarers’ contractual arrangements, responsibilities of manning agencies, working hours, health and safety, crew accommodations, catering standards and seafarers’ welfare. “The maritime labor inspection and certification system is a big step forward by the ILO in taking concrete and specific action to address the very serious problems that arise because of international ownership of ships and the inability of some countries to ensure their ships meet international standards for quality shipping,” said Cleopatra Doumbia-Henry, director of the ILO’s International Labor Standards Department. “Each state is tasked with ensuring that ships flying its flag meet the ‘decent work’ requirements set out in the convention, but also with certifying that those ships comply with the requirements relating to labor conditions.” For its part, the United States has fulfilled and exceeded such requirements for years. The convention’s ratification was welcome news to unions and employers alike. In a joint statement, the SIU-affiliated International Transport Workers’ Federation and the International Shipping Federation praised the convention, adding, however, the industry must be prepared to implement the new standards. “It has the potential to make a real difference to all seafarers, regardless of nationality or the flag of the ship on which they serve,” said SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel, who serves as chairman of the ITF Seafarers’ Section. “At last, we will have a ‘one-stop shop’ for labor standards, which we are confident will be genuinely implemented and enforced on a global basis.” Expecting enforcement to be quite strict, the ITF and ISF said shipowners should focus on preparing for compliance before the MLC, 2006 takes effect. Ships believed to be in non-compliance could face more detailed inspections and possible detention where serious cases of non-compliance or hazardous materials are concerned. “The vast majority of companies should have no problem complying with the substance of the convention, since in large part this is derived from existing ILO maritime standards and accepted good employment practices,” said ISF Labor Affairs Committee Chairman Arthur Bowring. “However, the enforcement mechanism is new and it will be important to avoid teething problems when some of the more detailed requirements are applied and interpreted.” While the MLC, 2006 was adopted by the ILO unanimously in 2006, it took six years before its two pre-ratification requirements were filled. The first requirement – that the ratifying countries represent at least 33 percent of the world’s gross shipping tonnage – was met in 2009. In fact, those countries now make up nearly 60 percent of the world’s tonnage. The second requirement – that at least 30 ILO member countries ratify the convention – was met this summer when Russia and the Philippines signed on. “This is a remarkable achievement,” Somavia said. “Not only are these first ratifications drawn from almost every region in the world, but the tonnage level is nearly double the required amount.” Bowring said the six-year time frame was due to the sheer number of countries involved and the convention’s impressive scope. The result, he added, was an ironclad agreement with broad international support. “This convention is the result of tripartite negotiations over a lengthy period, which means the labor standards we have all agreed to can be supported by governments, shipowners and seafarers, giving us a uniform global framework of sound employment standards,” he said. Compliance may take some preparation, Heindel added, but the entire industry will be better off once the convention takes effect August 2013. “While there will be a lot to do to ensure that the standards are properly enforced in a year’s time, I think this is a moment when all concerned can take credit for what has been achieved by the adoption of the MLC, 2006, and the tangible benefits this will bring both to shipowners and the seafarers they employ” he said. Bipartisan Support for Jones Act Evident in United States Congress Congressmen from both sides of the aisle are standing up to possible threats to the Jones Act and the American maritime jobs that come with it. In multiple letters and in congressional hearings, U.S. Reps. Frank LoBiondo (R-N.J.), Rick Larsen (D-Wash.) and Elijah Cummings (D-Md.) told top administration officials they would fight any future attempts to waive Jones Act provisions that require U.S.-flag ships to transport oil tapped from the country’s Strategic Petroleum Reserve (SPR). Such waivers allowed foreign-flagged ships to transport oil when the administration decided to tap the SPR last year, taking good-paying jobs away from American mariners. “The Jones Act is the law of the land, it is the cornerstone of our U.S. maritime capability and it should be waived only in the rarest of circumstances,” Cummings wrote in a letter to President Obama. “The Jones Act supports tens of thousands of domestic maritime and shipbuilding jobs and is critical to maintaining a domestic maritime industry. It should never be waived for the convenience of oil refiners or to the benefit of foreign nations.” While Deputy Transportation Secretary John Porcari assured the House Subcommittee on Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation during a June hearing the administration had learned from the 2011 incident and would involve Congress in future decisions, many members are not entirely convinced. “While Deputy Secretary Porcari provided some information regarding the waiver process, his testimony was not clear regarding steps that would be taken in the future to maximize the use of the Jones Act fleet should another SPR drawdown occur,” wrote Cummings, who serves as a senior member on the subcommittee. And with the administration considering tapping the SPR again to alleviate high gas prices, other members of the Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation Subcommittee are speaking out as well. In a letter to the respective heads of the Departments of Homeland Security, Transportation and Energy, subcommittee chairman LoBiondo and ranking member Larsen said they were concerned about preserving good American jobs. “It may make sense to reconsider options to release SPR oil reserves in light of the shutdown of Gulf Coast drilling operations due to Hurricane Irene and rising gas prices,” LoBiondo and Larsen wrote. “However, we were very disappointed to first learn of the administration’s renewed interest in this option from a media report, and not directly from the administration, especially considering Mr. Porcari’s stated pledge to work closely with Congress on such decisions.” LoBiondo and Larsen added employing U.S.-flagged ships for future SPR drawdowns is especially important, as the country continues to struggle with a weak economy and high unemployment. “Congress has sent a clear signal to the administration that it fully expects any future transport of SPR oil to be carried on U.S.-built, -owned and -crewed vessels,” they wrote. “Should the administration decide to release SPR reserves, we look forward to working with you to uphold the longstanding tenets of the Jones Act to ensure that the transport of this oil results in jobs for U.S. mariners and business for U.S. carriers, just as the law requires.” The country, they added, needs to put American workers first. “At a time when far too many Americans remain unemployed, priority must be given to addressing the needs of our maritime workers.” October 2012 10/2/2012 7:15:34 AM �Political Action, International Solidarity Emerge as Keys During SIUNA Convention Quinquennial Event Also Kicks off 75th Anniversary Observance Delegates representing the dozen affiliated organizations of the Seafarers International Union of North America (SIUNA) gathered Sept. 11-12 in Piney Point, Md., for the union’s 26th convention, where they mapped out strategies to boost working families. Hosted at the union-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, the quinquennial event also marked a slightly early kickoff for observing the 75th anniversary of the SIUNA and one of its autonomous affiliates: the Seafarers International Union, Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU. The convention’s theme – Delivering Since 1938 – and related artwork paid tribute to that anniversary. Delegates called for actions to promote and protect workers’ rights, sustain a strong U.S. Merchant Marine, continue with international efforts aimed at improving the lives of all workers, and educate and mobilize rank-and-file members to back pro-labor candidates in the November elections. They also approved resolutions honoring the victims and responders of the September 11 terrorist attacks; supporting our troops; remembering members, officials and friends of SIUNA affiliates who passed away since the previous convention; and encouraging continued utilization of Union Plus programs. Approximately 250 delegates and guests attended the convention. Addressing the gathering Sept. 11 were (in order): Valerie Cole, Union Plus representative; U.S. Rep. Nick Rahall (D-W.Va.); Steve Cotton, ITF maritime coordinator; Tom Ellis, director of finance and operations at the Union Sportsmen’s Alliance; Ernie Grecco, president of the Metropolitan Baltimore Council of AFL-CIO Unions; Paddy Crumlin, ITF president and Maritime Union of Australia national secretary; and Rear Adm. Mark Buzby, commander, U.S. Military Sealift Command. The Sept. 12 speakers (also in order) were Fred Mason, president of the Maryland and D.C. AFL-CIO; Vice Adm. Al Herberger, USN (Ret), former maritime administrator and deputy commander of the U.S. Transportation Command; Dr. Conrad Oca, president of the Associated Marine Officers’ and Seamen’s Union of the Philippines; Mike Jewell, president of the Marine Engineers’ Beneficial Association; Tom Bethel, president of the American Maritime Officers; and Jackie Smith, president of the Norwegian Seafarers’ Union. Additionally, SIUNA affiliates reported on their recent activities, and delegates elected by acclamation President Michael Sacco and Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel. Seventeen vice presidents also were chosen by the convention. They are Augustin Tellez, Dean Corgey, George Tricker, Joseph Soresi, Kermett Mangram, Nick Marrone, Tom Orzechowski, Nick Celona, Tom Bethel, Donna Walsh, Anthony Poplawski, Michel Desjardins, Gunnar Lundeberg, Butch Cleary, John Spadaro, Eugene Irish, and Herb Perez. President Sacco opened the convention by discussing the union’s strides since its founding in 1938. “When I look back on our history, the thing that stands out is progress,” he said. “Today’s mariner is more competent and better-trained than ever. As the industry has evolved, we’ve stayed ahead of the game through training and safety measures that allow the modern seafarer to thrive despite smaller crews, shipboard automation and multi-tasking. “And we’ve partnered with our operators to help protect their investments,” he continued. “As costs – and potential liabilities – have gone up, we’ve had to work together very closely to ensure our survival. Along the way, we’ve also helped break down barriers in the workplace. I’m happy to say that we’ve long since passed the point where gender or race makes any difference when it comes to getting and keeping a job. Today, all that matters is the mariner is qualified and has his or her paperwork in order.” He then discussed the urgent need for SIUNA affiliates to elected pro-worker candidates in November, and reminded delegates that the entire labor movement’s survival “depends on politics. I’m very proud of the fact that the SIUNA and all of our affiliates support pro-worker politicians, regardless of whether they’re Democrats or Republicans or Independents. We’re not a one-party union,” he said. “But this year, at least in the presidential race, the Republicans have come right out and said they’re out to eliminate unions. They want to destroy us. It’s all there in black and white, as part of their official platform that was released to the public last month.” Finally, he delivered a poignant remembrance of the victims of September 11. Sacco mentioned that as the attacks occurred, the SIUNA-affiliated United Industrial Workers was conducting its 2001 convention in that same auditorium in Piney Point where this year’s SIUNA gathering took place. “Brothers and sisters, none of us will ever forget 9-11, but something else I’ll never forget is the unity that existed all across the United States for quite a while afterward,” he said. “What a terrible shame that it took a devastating tragedy to remind people that we’re all Americans, and we’re all in this together. People shouldn’t have to suffer or die in order to get our country to drop the hardline partisanship that has taken over our politics.” Detailed convention coverage appears on pages 11-18 New Tankers Provide Additional SIU Jobs SIU–contracted Crowley has purchased two brand new Jones Act tankers, a move that will result in outright job gains for Seafarers. While the first tanker, the Pennsylvania, has already been delivered, the second tanker, the Florida, is scheduled for delivery during the first quarter of 2013. The first SIU members sailing aboard the Pennsylvania are Bosun Homar McField, AB Saleh Mothana, AB Arthur Doherty, AB Mapalana Gamage, AB Rodney Roberson, AB Brandon Albro, QMED Nestor Martinez, Oiler Benjaman Stanley, Chief Steward Exxl Ronquillo, Chief Cook Jesus Pacheco and SA Dennis Uchic. Built by union workers at Aker Philadelphia Shipyard, the tankers will mark Crowley’s first foray into the Jones Act tanker fleet since its last tanker was retired in 2011. “This is a great win for the SIU, for Crowley and really for U.S. national and economic security,” said SIU Vice President Contracts George Tricker. “These are state-of-the-art vessels, and Crowley has shown great confidence in the mariners who are working and will work aboard them.” “Crowley is thrilled to partner with Aker Philadelphia Shipyard and to take delivery of these new Jones Act tankers,” said Crowley President and CEO Tom Crowley. “We are bringing the best available technologies to our customers, who understand and appreciate safety and operational excellence. This is yet another example of our ongoing investments in new equipment and technology to meet the October 2012 11768_LOG.indd 3 current and future needs of our customers.” The tankers will be able to carry nearly 330,000 barrels of petroleum products and chemicals. They will operate in the U.S. coastwise trade. “Putting these vessels into service continues our commitment to offering a wide variety of solutions for the safe and reliable transportation of petroleum products and chemicals for our customers,” said Rob Grune, Crowley’s senior vice president and general manager, petroleum services. “As one of the largest independent operators in the U.S., we have a proven reputation for providing economical, reliable service while adhering to the most stringent safety and environmental protection standards. This tradition is certain to continue with the delivery of these two new tankers.” The tankers are the thirteenth and fourteenth in the Veteran Class built at Aker. With a length of 183.2 m, a breadth of 32.2 m and a depth of 18.8 m, the tankers come in at 45,800 deadweight tons with a draft of 12.2 m. They are double-hulled with segregated ballast systems and safety features including water, CO2, foam and water spray firefighting systems. “I am confident this transaction will bring significant value to both parties for years to come,” said Aker Philadelphia Shipyard President and CEO Kristian Rokke. “This is a major milestone for the shipyard and we are greatly appreciative of the support we have received from many, including the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, City of Philadelphia and AKER ASA.” Built by union members, the Philadelphia (immediately above), also carries a union crew. Members of the the new vessel’s inaugural crew are pictured aboard ship in the wide photo above. Seafarers LOG 3 9/28/2012 11:53:23 AM �Happy Homecoming for Ocean Atlas Crew Appreciates Union’s Successful Effort to End Ordeal in Venezuela A week after their tense detention ended in Venezuela, SIU members aboard the heavy-lift ship Ocean Atlas voiced two main sentiments shortly after safely arriving in Houston. First, they were glad the ordeal was finished. Second, they sincerely appreciated the crucial support of their union – including regular communications to the ship and virtually round-the-clock efforts to help secure its release. “I’m very grateful to everybody that pulled us through and got it worked out,” Recertified Bosun David Hetrick told a reporter for the Seafarers LOG aboard the ship on Sept. 22. “It could have been terrible for all 15 of us.” Operated by Crowley for Intermarine, the Ocean Atlas was detained in Maracaibo from Aug. 29-Sept. 14. In a complicated saga that essentially boiled down to an administrative mistake involving a local customs agent, the SIU crew and AMO officers for a time thought they might end up in jail, even though neither they nor the companies had done anything wrong. But, as the unions, companies and others worked feverishly to clear up any misunderstandings and red tape, vessel master Capt. Jeff Raider went ashore with local authorities, which helped allow the other mariners to stay on the ship. (Hetrick and others were quick to thank the captain for his professionalism and selflessness.) The vessel finally sailed again on Sept. 14, making a stop in the Dominican Republic before docking in Houston, where SIU Vice President Gulf Coast Dean Corgey and SIU Houston Port Agent Mike Russo boarded the ship. SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel and SIU Counsel Leslie Tarantola led the union’s efforts, backed by other headquarters officials. “But this was a group effort all the way, not just within our union but also including the U.S. State Department, the International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF) and many others whom we have publicly acknowledged,” Heindel stated. “And we couldn’t have been successful without the members remaining levelheaded and patient. They deserve tremendous credit.” In a public statement issued once the vessel sailed from Venezuela, the SIU pointed out, “Understandably, the media reports concerning the Ocean Atlas at times have missed the mark on certain details. Venezuelan officials acted appropriately, based on information sent from Colombia regarding a missed inspection of the vessel’s cargo. Venezuelan law enforcement authorities, as part of their ongoing commitment to assist other nations in trying to curtail the movement and distribution of illegal drugs, investigated a report made by Colombian authorities that the ship could be carrying narcotics. “The search confirmed that the ship was not carrying any narcotics, though it did find that the Ocean Atlas was carrying declared weapons (rifles) for potential use by security teams when the ship traverses high-risk waters such as the Gulf of Aden. Carrying such weapons is common practice, given the ongoing battle against maritime piracy. The ship detention resulted from what amounted to an administrative mistake by a local customs agent. The Ocean Atlas itself did everything properly.” (The SIU also is renewing its calls for the International Maritime Organization to immediately issue regulations on private armed security companies in the acquisition, carriage and use of weapons utilized in protecting our crews. These rules should be agreed upon and given uniformity between United Nations member states. The union further pointed to the Ocean Atlas episode as an example of why Seafarers are encouraged to support the union’s Maritime Defense League, abbreviated as MDL.) Knowing they were in the right only provided so much comfort for the crew, though, when armed local authorities boarded the ship and said all of the mariners would be arrested and would have to go ashore to issue statements. “Fear of the unknown was the most discomforting part,” said GUDE Samir Tarsha. “I have nothing but positive things to say about the Venezuelan people, but we didn’t know what would happen next. It was especially uncomfortable for our families.” Tarsha added that he “absolutely” appreciated the SIU’s work to help secure the crew’s release. “I knew that behind the scenes, the union was handling it.” Asked to reflect on the experience after things had calmed, AB Bill Winnett summed up many of the feelings aboard the ship when he replied, “It’s hard to know where to start. Obviously, it was a misunderstanding.” He continued, “I think we all knew we’d get through it, but it was a little bit scary at times. We thought we were going to jail…. We received emails and information from the companies and the unions, so we knew they were on it. We got a personal email from (SIU President) Mike Sacco himself. We all felt supported and we appreciated our families being contacted, too.” AB Nicolas Byers said that while he personally wasn’t frightened, he was concerned that the vessel boarding may have become incendiary. “When people come aboard with guns and speaking a different language, there may be a natural tendency to lash out,” he said. “We knew we were in the right, though, and we really appreciated what the SIU, AMO and everybody else working together did for us.” “My personal feeling is relief that we’re home,” stated AB Russell Macomber. “We were there for 17 days and only five of them were really bad. The night they came aboard and told us we were going to jail wasn’t real pleasant.” Reflecting on the overall experience, he added, “It made me more appreciative of the people in my life, and the SIU’s support Electrician Christopher Eason 4 Seafarers LOG 11768_LOG_X.indd 4 Following a shipboard meeting Sept. 22 in Houston, pictured aboard the vessel are (from left) Recertified Bosun David Hetrick, SIU VP Gulf Coast Dean Corgey, ACU Joel Ababa, AB Nicolas Byers, Electrician Christopher Eason, SIU Houston Port Agent Mike Russo, AB Bill Winnett, GUDE Samir Tarsha and AB Russell Macomber. meant a lot. The support was amazing and – I don’t want this to sound wrong – but it was unexpected. Seeing they were constantly involved meant a great deal.” Chief Steward Connie Denoma said that despite the tension, she understood its roots. “It started with bad information, and that’s what I told the Venezuelan people: It’s not your fault. I could see the same thing happening in the United States,” she said. Concerning the SIU’s support, Denoma stated, “I was very glad that this was a highprofile case and in the hands of people who’d Recertified Bosun David Hetrick use common sense. I’m thankful that people didn’t make more out of it than it was, and that cooler heads prevailed.” Electrician Christopher Eason took the events more or less in stride. “I didn’t think it was a big deal,” he said. “It’s part of the job. I thought the union did a great job and I wasn’t worried; as long as I was getting paid, I was happy.” ACU Joel Ababa said he “only was worried because we weren’t in the U.S. But now that we’re back, it feels great, man. It’s good to be safe.” Chief Steward Connie Denoma Seafarers credited vessel master Capt. Jeff Raider (second from right) for his actions throughout the detention. Pictured with him in Houston are (from left) Port Agent Mike Russo, VP Dean Corgey and AB Russell Macomber. October 2012 9/28/2012 7:22:16 PM �Paul “Chip” Jaenichen Deputy Maritime Administrator Robert Smith Division Chief NMC Training and Assessment Mayte Medina Division Chief Coast Guard Maritime Personnel Qualifications PHC Adapts to Changing Technology, Regs Seafaring is changing throughout the world, and the SIU is taking steps to ensure its members will continue to thrive in an ever-evolving industry. Key to that strategy are the educational offerings at the union-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education (PHC). Gathered at the school’s Piney Point, Md. campus for their annual meeting on Sept. 13, the PHC’s advisory board heard from a variety of government officials, union officials and major shipping representatives about the changing industry and what the school needs to do to continue meeting those new challenges. “Most of the suggestions and recommendations they make at these meetings help us develop a better curriculum,” SIU President Mike Sacco said at the start of the meeting. “We have to change with the needs of the industry. If we can’t meet those needs we’re not going to survive.” SIU Executive Vice President Augie Tellez told the industry leaders they should consider the SIU and the school a partner when it comes to crewing ships with well-trained seafarers and making sure they reach ports on time. In short, they’re all in the same boat. “Use us like you would use any other business asset,” he said. “We want to make sure that what we are doing is meeting your needs. We’d like to identify where we’re missing and see if we can correct that.” As the meeting continued, it became clear there were quite a few industry changes on the horizon. Deputy Maritime Administrator Paul “Chip” Jaenichen, for one, said the administration would “challenge the industry” to start churning out more engineers. He introduced a new model that would require trainees to spend 45 days on an RFF ship. “We think it’s a win-win for everyone,” he said. “We get folks who are familiar with the ships we operate; you get an opportunity to get a trial run of those electricians.” As ship technology continues to change, Jaenichen John Mason CEO, American Service Technology Inc. October 2012 11768_LOG.indd 5 added, additional training will be required. And that’s where the SIU and its union-affiliated school come in. “We need to create more qualified mariners in the jobs we need,” he said. “This is how to work with the industry to help us get where we need to go.” When it comes to organizing courses for such training at maritime schools, the National Maritime Center (NMC) is making large strides, said NMC Mariner Training and Assessment Division Chief Robert Smith. “If we work together on this we come out with the perfect mariner,” Smith said, adding the NMC is focusing on keeping up to date with the latest technology. “The only rule constant in the universe is change – and we have to embrace it.” He added the NMC’s credentialing process is being streamlined to provider a better, online-centered user interface that results in shorter processing periods and better access to information. “This is an ongoing task,” he said. “We continue in stride to get better at what we do.” Mayte Medina, chief of the Coast Guard’s Maritime Personnel Qualifications Division, provided insight into what upcoming changes tied to the 2010 STCW Amendments and the International Labor Organization’s recently ratified Maritime Labor Convention, 2006 will mean to the industry. The Manila Amendments and the MLC 2006 provide increased seafarer rights internationally, but Medina said it’s still too early to identify what exact changes in policy and training must be made. The Manila Amendments are at the beginning of a five-year transitional period and the MLC, 2006 doesn’t go into effect until August of 2013. Medina said the Coast Guard has yet to set a definitive policy on either. “We don’t have any authority at this stage to cut any certificate,” Medina said of the Manila Amendments. “Once a person comes back to renew in five years (when J.C. Wiegman Director, PHC Training the transitional period ends) we will ask them to prove they met those requirements.” As for the MLC 2006, Medina said, the Coast Guard is drafting a policy that will help U.S.-flag ships avoid unnecessary delays at foreign ports. “We’re drafting a policy as we speak. …so everybody knows how we comply on a particular vessel,” Medina said. “It’s going to be very, very, very soon.” PHC Training Director J.C. Wiegman added the school will be ready when that happens. “We’re moving forward,” he said. “We are submitting our courses to the National Maritime Center while the regulatory agencies work toward the final rule.” Military Sealift Command (MSC) Training Director Richard Egan said his organization was also preparing for changes. “Our training requirements have doubled,” he said. “It’s astronomical all the pressure being put on mariners and companies to meet all of these requirements.” After listening to what changes may need to be made in future curriculum, officials with the PHC shared the changes in policy and curriculum the school already made. PHC instructor Tom Truitt discussed the school’s path from unlicensed apprentice to deck and engine programs, adding that changes would be made at various stages to keep up with new industry standards. Truitt said there would be further emphasis on health awareness and actual sea time. “The biggest changes will be the total number of assessments and the requirements of those assessments needed,” Truitt said. “We’re hoping we’ll produce a better sailor out there.” Engineering instructor Jay Henderson added the school will continue to have an exceptionally comprehensive engineering program in an attempt to keep up with new technology and meet the demands of the industry. Changes are also coming to the Seafarers Management Information System on the SIU website. SIU SecretaryTreasurer David Heindel said officials are looking to enhance the member portal and increase the ease of scheduling exams. He asked those in attendance to explore the site and offer their suggestions. “If there are tweaks we need to make we need to know that so the system can work for you as well as our mariners,” Heindel said. “I encourage everybody on the ship owner side to let us know what we can do better.” Re-emphasizing the need to stay informed of the needs of the industry, officials encouraged the industry leaders and government officials in attendance to sign up for a variety of subcommittees to delve further into particular issues. Those groups will exchange ideas through emails, phone calls and meetings over an extended period of time. By the end of the Sept. 13 advisory board meeting, the subcommittee sign-up sheets were largely full. “The subcommittees are extremely important. When you sign up with these working groups you’re providing a service,” said John Mason, CEO of American Service Technology Inc. “We’re going to have people who know how to work on these things.” The industry will continue to change, Mason added, and the PHC is determined to stay ahead of those changes. “There are a lot of things moving along and they’re all interconnected,” he said. “We’re going to attempt to do something (about it).” Seafarers LOG 5 9/28/2012 11:53:32 AM �Information for the 2012 Election of Officers SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes & Inland Waters District/NMU Balloting Begins Nov. 1 for Union Officers Voting starts Nov. 1 for the election of officers for the Seafarers International Union Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/ NMU. SIU members will be able to cast secret ballots at union halls or by mail through Dec. 31, 2012. Seafarers eligible to vote in this election to determine union officials for the 2013-2016 term are full-book members in good standing. This eligibility criteria is spelled out in the union’s governing document, the constitution. The ballot will list the names of all qualified candidates as determined by the credentials committee, a group made up of six rank-andfile Seafarers who reviewed the nominating petitions of all SIU members seeking office in this district-wide election. A sample of this ballot appears on pages 7 and 8. The credentials committee report, which was prepared Aug. 16, and submitted to the membership at the September monthly meetings, indicated 26 candidates had qualified to run for 25 positions. (The committee’s report was published in the September 2012 Seafarers LOG.) The 25 posts for which Seafarers will cast their ballots are president, executive vice president, secretary-treasurer, six vice presidents, six assistant vice presidents and 10 port agents. 20 Polling Places The election will be conducted by mail ballot as provided by the union’s constitution. Secret ballots, accompanied by envelopes marked “Ballot” and postage-paid envelopes printed with the address of the bank depository where the ballots are kept until submitted to the tallying committee, will be available to full-book members in good standing at 20 union halls around the country. (See list of voting locations on this page.) Eligible Seafarers may pick up their ballots and envelopes marked “Ballot” and mailing en- velopes at these halls between 9:00 a.m. until 12:00 noon, Monday through Saturday, except legal holidays, from Nov. 1 to Dec. 31. Each member must present his or her book to the port agent or the agent’s designated representative when receiving the ballot, the envelope marked “Ballot” and the mailing envelope. When the Seafarer receives the ballot and envelopes, his or her book will be marked with the word “Voted” and the date. If a member does not present his or her book, or if there is a question in regard to his or her eligibility to vote, the Seafarer will receive a mailing envelope of a different color marked with the word “Challenged.” His or her book will be stamped with the words “Voted Challenge” and the date. For members who believe they will be at sea during this time, the SIU constitution provides for absentee voting procedures. Full-book members in good standing who need to vote by absentee ballot should direct a request for the ballot to the union’s secretary-treasurer at SIU headquarters - 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. Secret Ballots Once the Seafarer has received his or her ballot and envelopes, he or she marks the ballot for the candidates of his or her choice and puts it in the envelope marked “Ballot.” This envelope is sealed by the member and then dispatched in the mail. These steps ensure the integrity of the secret ballot process. The union’s constitution, in Article XIII, details the procedures for voting in union elections. All ballots will be counted by the rankand-file committee consisting of two members elected from each of the union’s constitutional ports. These committee members will be elected in December. They will convene in early Jan. 2013. Notice on Unopposed Candidates One part of the article of the SIU constitution covering rules for elections concerns the election of candidates who are unopposed for the office in question. The section states that those candidates who are unopposed for any office or job shall be considered elected to that office or job and that the tallying committee shall not have to count the votes for any such candidate. The entire section, contained in Article XIII, Section 5 of the SIU constitution reads as follows: “A candidate unopposed for any office or job shall be deemed elected to such office or job notwithstanding that his name may appear on the ballot. The Union Tallying Committee shall not be required to tally completely the results of the voting for such unopposed candidate but shall certify in their report that such unopposed candidate has been elected to such office or job. The Election Report Meeting shall accept the above certification of the Union Tallying Committee.” Procedures for Voting All Seafarers eligible to vote in the union’s 2012 election of officers and job holders for the term 2013-2016 may vote by secret ballot from Nov. 1 through Dec. 31, 2012. Secret ballots, together with self-addressed, stamped envelopes for mailing, will be available at union halls to all eligible voters. Seafarers are eligible to vote in the union’s election if they are full-book members in good standing. Details of the election procedure are spelled out in Article XIII of the SIU constitution, which is printed verbatim on pages 9 and 10 of this issue of Seafarers LOG. In summary, here is the procedure for voting: ■ Eligible Seafarers may pick up ballot and mailing envelopes from 9:00 a.m. to 12 noon (local time), Monday through Saturday, excluding legal holidays, from Nov. 1 through Dec. 31, 2012 at designated union halls (see list on this page). ■ When a full-book member arrives to vote, he or she should present his or her book to the port agent of his duly designated representative. ■ The member will be asked to sign a roster sheet indicating the date, the number of the 6 Seafarers LOG 11768_LOG.indd 6 ballot given the member and his or her book number. ■ The member will have his book stamped with the word “Voted” and the date. ■ At the same time, the member will receive a ballot, together with an envelope marked “Ballot” and a mailing envelope. The mailing envelope has the address of the depository printed on it, making it self-addressed. It also has the postage pre-paid. ■ The top part of the ballot above the perforated line will be retained by the port agent or his duly designated representative. ■ In cases where a member does not produce his or her book, or if there is a question about the member’s good standing or other eligibility matters, the member will receive a mailing envelope of a different color marked with the word “Challenge.” His or her book will also be stamped “Voted Challenge” and the date. ■ After a member has voted, he or she puts the ballot in the mailing envelope which is addressed to the bank depository and stamped. The mailing envelope should then be put in the mail. Notice of 2008 Election For Election of 2013-2016 Officers Seafarers International Union of North America Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes & Inland Waters District/NMU Elections will be conducted by secret mail ballot. Ballots may be obtained at the following locations from 9 a.m. to noon (local time), Mondays through Saturdays, excluding holidays, during the voting period. The voting period shall commence Nov. 1, 2012 and shall continue through Dec. 31, 2012. Voting Locations ALGONAC 520 St. Clair River Dr., Algonac, MI 48001 ANCHORAGE 721 Sesame Street, Suite 1C, Anchorage, AK 99503 BALTIMORE 2315 Essex St., Baltimore, MD 21224 FT. LAUDERDALE 1221 South Andrews Ave., Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33316 GUAM Cliffline Office Ctr., Suite 103B, 422 West O’Brien Dr., Hagatna, Guam 96910 HONOLULU 606 Kalihi St., Honolulu, HI 96819 HOUSTON 1221 Pierce St., Houston, TX 77002 JACKSONVILLE 5100 Belfort Road, Jacksonville, FL 32256 JOLIET 10 East Clinton, Joliet, IL 60432 MOBILE 1640 Dauphin Island Pkwy., Mobile, AL 36605 NEW ORLEANS 3911 Lapalco Blvd., Harvey, LA 70058 NEW YORK 635 Fourth Ave., Brooklyn, NY 11232 NORFOLK 115 Third St., Norfolk, VA 23510 OAKLAND 1121 7th St., Oakland, CA 94607 PHILADELPHIA 2604 South Fourth St., Philadelphia, PA 19148 PINEY POINT Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship, Piney Point, MD 20674 PUERTO RICO 1057 Fernandez Juncos Ave., Santurce, PR 00907 ST. LOUIS 4581 Gravois Ave., St. Louis, MO 63116 TACOMA 3411 South Union St., Tacoma, WA 98409 WILMINGTON 510 North Broad Ave., Wilmington, CA 90744 Procedure For Absentee Ballots Elections for the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU are scheduled for later this year. As in past SIU election years, a comprehensive guide will be published in the Seafarers LOG prior to the balloting. In the case of members eligible to vote who believe they will be at sea during the Nov. 1 through Dec. 31, 2012 voting period or who otherwise think they will need absentee ballots, absentee ballots will be available. The SIU constitution ensures that members who are eligible to vote and who find themselves in this situation may vote. Procedures are established in the SIU constitution to safeguard the secret ballot election, including the absentee ballot process. Here is the procedure to follow when requesting an absentee ballot: 1. Make the request in writing to the SIU office of the secretary-treasurer, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. 2. Include in the request the correct address where the absentee ballot should be mailed. 3. Send the request for an absentee ballot by registered or certified mail. 4. The registered or certified mail en- velope must be postmarked no later than midnight, Nov. 15, 2012 and must be received at 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746 no later than Nov. 25, 2012. 5. The secretary-treasurer, after confirming eligibility, will send by registered mail, return receipt requested, to the address designated in the request, a ballot, together with an envelope marked “Ballot” and a mailing envelope no later than Nov. 30, 2012. 6. Upon receiving the ballot and envelope, vote by marking the ballot. After voting the ballot, place the ballot in the envelope marked “Ballot.” Do not write on the “Ballot” envelope. 7. Place the envelope marked “Ballot” in the mailing envelope which is imprinted with the mailing address of the bank depository where all ballots are sent. 8. Sign the mailing envelope on the first line of the upper left-hand corner. Print name and book number on the second line. The mailing envelope is self-addressed and stamped. 9. The mailing envelope must be postmarked no later than midnight, Dec. 31, 2012 and received by the bank depository no later than Jan. 5, 2013. October 2012 9/28/2012 11:53:32 AM �October 2012 11768_LOG.indd 7 Seafarers LOG 7 9/28/2012 11:53:33 AM �8 Seafarers LOG 11768_LOG.indd 8 October 2012 9/28/2012 11:53:34 AM �Information for the 2012 Election of Officers SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes & Inland Waters District/NMU SIU Constitution Spells Out Rules On 2012 Elections The section of the union’s constitution outlining voting procedures in the SIU’s elections, which are conducted every four years, appears here and on page 10 in its entirety. Article XIII Elections for Officers, Assistant Vice-Presidents and Port Agents Section 1. Nominations. Except as provided in Section 2(b) of this Article, any full book member may submit his name for nomination for any office, or the job of Assistant Vice-President, or Port Agent, by delivering or causing to be delivered in person, to the office of the Secretary-Treasurer at Headquarters, or sending a letter addressed to the Credentials Committee, in care of the Secretary-Treasurer at the address of Headquarters. This letter shall be dated and shall contain the following: The name of the candidate. His home address and mailing address. His book number. The title of the office or other job for which he is a candidate, including the name of the Port in the event the position sought is that of Port Agent. Proof of citizenship. Proof of seatime and/or employment as required for candidates. In the event the member is on a vessel, he shall notify the Credentials Committee what vessel he is on. This shall be done also if he ships subsequent to forwarding his credentials. Annexing a certificate in the following form, signed and dated by the proposed nominee: “I hereby certify that I am not now, nor, for the five (5) years last past, have I been either a member of the Communist Party or convicted of, or served any part of a prison term resulting from conviction of robbery, bribery, extortion, embezzlement, grand larceny, burglary, arson, violation of narcotics laws, murder, rape, assault with intent to kill, assault which inflicts grievous bodily injury, or violation of Title II or III of the Landrum Griffin Act, or conspiracy to commit any such crimes.” Dated ___________________________ ________________________________ Signature of Member Book No. ________________________ Printed forms of the certificate shall be made available to nominees. Where a nominee cannot truthfully execute such a certificate, but is, in fact, legally eligible for an office or job by reason of the restoration of civil rights originally revoked by such conviction or a favorable determination by the Board of Parole of the United States Department of Justice, he shall, in lieu of the foregoing certificate, furnish a complete signed statement of the facts of his case together with true copies of the documents supporting his statement. Any full book member may nominate any other full book member in which event such full book member so nominated shall comply with the provisions of this Article as they are set forth herein relating to the submission of credentials. By reason of the above self nomination provision the responsibility, if any, for notifying a nominee of his nomination to office shall be that of the nominator. All documents required herein must reach Headquarters no earlier than July 15 and no later than August 15 of the election year. The Secretary-Treasurer is charged with safekeeping of these letters and shall turn them over to the Credentials Committee upon the latter’s request. Section 2. Credentials Committee (a) A Credentials Committee shall be elected at either the regular meeting in August of the election year or at a special meeting convened in August of the election year at the Port where Headquarters is located. It shall consist of six (6) full book members in attendance at the meeting with two (2) members to be elected from each of October 2012 11768_LOG.indd 9 the Deck, Engine and Steward Departments. No officer, Assistant Vice-President, or Port Agent, or candidate for office of the job of Assistant Vice-President, or Port Agent, shall be eligible for election to this Committee except as provided for in Article X, Section 4. In the event any Committee member is unable to serve, the Committee shall suspend until the President or Executive Vice-President or the Secretary-Treasurer, in that order, calls a special meeting at the Port where Headquarters is located in order to elect a replacement. The Committee’s results shall be by majority vote with any tie vote being resolved by a majority of the membership at a special meeting called for that purpose at that Port. (b) After its election, the Committee shall immediately go into session. It shall determine whether the person has submitted his application correctly and possesses the necessary qualifications. The Committee shall prepare a report listing each applicant and his book number under the office or job he is seeking. Each applicant shall be marked “qualified” or “disqualified” according to the findings of the Committee. Where an applicant has been marked “disqualified,” the reason therefore must be stated in the report. Where a tie vote has been resolved by a special meeting of the membership, that fact shall also be noted with sufficient detail. The report shall be signed by all of the Committee members and be completed and submitted to the Ports in time for the next regular meeting after their election. At this meeting, it shall be read and incorporated in the minutes and then posted on the bulletin board in each Port. On the last day of nominations, one (1) member of the Committee shall stand by in Headquarters to accept delivery of credentials. All credentials must be in Headquarters by midnight of closing day. (c) When an applicant has been disqualified by the Committee, he shall be notified immediately by telegram, overnight mail, air mail, special delivery, or an equivalent mail service at the address listed by him pursuant to Section 1 of this Article. He shall also be sent a letter containing their reasons for such disqualification by airmail, special delivery, registered or certified, to the mailing address designated pursuant to Section 1(b) of this Article. A disqualified applicant shall have the right to take an appeal to the membership from the decision of the Committee. He shall forward copies of such appeal to each Port where the appeal shall be presented and voted upon at a regular meeting no later than the second meeting after the Committee’s election. It is the responsibility of the applicant to insure timely delivery of his appeal. In any event, without prejudice to his written appeal, the applicant may appear in person before the Committee within two (2) days after the day on which the telegram, overnight mail, air mail, special delivery or an equivalent mail service is sent to correct his application or argue for his qualification. The Committee’s report shall be prepared early enough to allow the applicant to appear before it within the time set forth in this Constitution and still reach the Ports in time for the first regular meeting after its election. (d) A majority vote of the membership shall, in the case of such appeals, be sufficient to overrule any disqualification by the Credentials Committee in which event the one so previously classified shall then be deemed qualified. (e) The Credentials Committee, in passing upon the qualifications of candidates, shall have the right to conclusively presume that anyone nominated and qualified in previous elections for candidacy for any office, or the job of Assistant Vice-President or Port Agent has met all the requirements of Section 1(a) of Article XII. (f) Committee members shall receive a per diem in an amount determined by the SecretaryTreasurer but in no event shall they receive an amount less than the AB Green hourly rate as specified in the current union industry wide contract for eight hours for each day of service commencing with the day subsequent to their election and ending on the day they complete their service or, if applicable, return to the Port from which they were elected. Section 3. Balloting Procedures. (a) Balloting in the manner hereafter provided shall commence on November 1st of the election year and shall continue through December 31st, exclusive of Sundays and (for each individual Port) holidays legally recognized in the City of which the Port affected is located. If November 1st and December 31st falls on a holiday legally recognized in a Port in the City in which that Port is located, the balloting period in such Port shall commence or terminate, as the case may be, on the next succeeding business day. Subject to the foregoing, for the purpose of full book members securing their ballots, the Ports shall be open from 9:00 A.M. to 12 Noon, Monday through Saturday, excluding holidays. (b) Balloting shall be by mail. The SecretaryTreasurer shall insure the proper and timely preparation of ballots without partiality as to candidates or Ports. The ballots may contain general information and instructive comments not inconsistent with the provisions of this Constitution. All qualified candidates shall be listed thereon alphabetically within each category with book number and job seniority classification status. The listing of the Ports shall first set forth Headquarters and then shall follow a geographical pattern commencing with the most northerly Port of the Atlantic Coast, following the Atlantic Coast down to the most southerly Port on that coast, then westerly along the Gulf of Mexico and so on, until the list of Ports is exhausted. Any Port outside the Continental United States shall then be added. There shall be no write-in voting and no provisions for the same shall appear on the ballot. Each ballot shall be so prepared as to have the number thereon place at the top thereof and shall be so perforated as to enable that portion containing the said number to be easily removed to insure secrecy of the ballot. On this removable portion shall also be placed a short statement indicating the nature of the ballot and the voting date thereof. (c) The ballots so prepared at the direction of the Secretary-Treasurer shall be the only official ballots. No others may be used. Each ballot shall be numbered as indicated in the preceding paragraphs and shall be numbered consecutively, commencing with number 1. A sufficient amount shall be printed and distributed to each Port. A record of the ballots, both by serial numbers and amount, sent thereto, shall be maintained by the Secretary-Treasurer who shall also send each Port Agent a verification list indicating the amount and serial numbers of the ballots sent. The Secretary-Treasurer shall also send to each Port Agent a sufficient amount of blank opaque envelopes containing the word, “Ballot” on the face of the envelope, as well as a sufficient amount of opaque mailing envelopes, first class postage prepaid and printed on the face thereon as the addressee shall be the name and address of the depository for the receipt of such ballots as designated by the President in the manner provided by Article X, Section 1, of this Constitution. In the upper left-hand corner of such mailing envelope, there shall be printed thereon, as a top line, provision for the voter’s signature and on another line immediately thereunder, provision for the printing of the voter’s name and book number. In addition, the Secretary-Treasurer shall also send a sufficient amount of mailing envelopes identical with the mailing envelopes mentioned above, except that they shall be of different color, and shall contain on the face of such envelope, in bold letters, the word, “Challenge.” The Secretary-Treasurer shall further furnish a sufficient amount of “Roster Sheets” which shall have printed thereon, at the top thereof, the year of the election, and immediately thereunder, five (5) vertical columns designated date, ballot number, signature full book member’s name, book number and comments, and such roster sheets shall contain horizontal lines immediately under the captions of each of the above five (5) columns. The Secretary-Treasurer shall also send a sufficient amount of envelopes with the printed name and address of the depository on the face thereof, and in the upper left-hand corner, the name of the Port and address, and on the face of such envelope, should be printed the words, “Roster Sheets and Ballot Stubs”. Each Port Agent shall maintain separate records of the ballots sent him and shall inspect and count the ballots when received to insure that the amount sent, as well as the number thereon, conform to the amount and numbers listed by the SecretaryTreasurer as having been sent to that Port. The Port Agent shall immediately execute and return to the Secretary-Treasurer a receipt acknowledging the correctness of the amount and the numbers of the ballots sent, or shall notify the Secretary-Treasurer of any discrepancy. Discrepancies shall be corrected as soon as possible prior to the voting period. In any event, receipts shall be forwarded for all the aforementioned election material actually received. The Secretary-Treasurer shall prepare a file in which shall be kept memoranda and correspondence dealing with the election. This file shall at all times be available to any member asking for inspection of the same at the office of the Secretary-Treasurer and shall be turned over to the Union Tallying Committee. (d) Balloting shall be secret. Only full book members in good standing may vote. Each full book member may secure his ballot at Port offices from the Port Agent or his duly designated representative at such Port. Each Port Agent shall designate an area at the Port office over which should be posted the legend “Voting Ballots Secured Here.” When a full book member appears to vote he shall present his book to the Port Agent or his aforementioned duly designated representative. The Port Agent or his duly designated representative shall insert on the roster sheet under the appropriate column the date, the number of the ballot given to such member and his full book number, and the member shall then sign his name on such roster sheet under the appropriate column. Such member shall have his book stamped with the word, “Voted” and the date, and shall be given a ballot, and simultaneously the perforation on the top of the ballot shall be removed. At the same time the member shall be given the envelope marked “Ballot” together with the prepaid postage-mailing envelope addressed to the depository. The member shall take such ballot and envelopes and in secret thereafter, mark his ballot, fold the same, insert it in the blank envelope marked “Ballot”, seal the same, then insert such “Ballot” envelope into the mailing envelope, seal such mailing envelope, sign his name on the upper left-hand corner on the first line of such mailing envelope and on the second line in the upper left-hand corner print his name and book number, after which he shall mail or cause the same to be mailed. In the event a full book member appears to vote and is not in good standing or does not have his membership book with him or it appears for other valid reasons he is not eligible to vote, the same procedure as provided above shall apply to him, except that on the roster sheet under the column “Comments”, notation should be made that the member voted a challenged ballot and the reason for his challenge. Such member’s membership book shall be stamped “Voted Challenge”, and the date, and such member instead of the above-mentioned mailing envelope, shall be given the mailing envelope of a different color marked on the face thereof with the word, “Challenge”. At the end of each day, the Port Agent or his duly designated representative shall enclose in the envelope addressed to the depository and marked “Roster Sheets and Ballots Stubs”, the roster sheet or sheets executed by the members that day together with the numbered perforated slips removed from the ballots which had been given to the members, and then mail the same to such depository. To insure that an adequate supply of all balloting material is maintained in all Ports at all times, the Port Agent or his duly designated representative, simultaneously with mailing of the roster sheets and ballot stubs to the depository at the end of each day, shall also make a copy of the roster sheet for that day and mail the same to the Secretary-Treasurer at Headquarters. The Port Agent shall be responsible for the proper safeguarding of all election material and shall not release any of it until duly called for and shall insure that no one tampers with the material placed in his custody. (e) Full book members may request and vote an absentee ballot under the following circumstances: while such member is employed on a Union contracted vessel and which vessel’s schedule does not provide for it to be at a Port in which a ballot can be secured during the time and period provided for in Section 3(a) of this Article or is in an accredited hospital any time during the first ten (10) days of the month of November of the election year. The member shall make a request for an absentee ballot by registered or certified mail or the equivalent mailing device at the location from which such request is made, if such be the case. Such request shall contain a designation as to the address to which such member wishes his absentee ballot returned. The request shall be postmarked no later than 12:00 P.M. on the 15th day of November of the election year, shall be directed to the Secretary-Treasurer at Headquarters and must be delivered no later than the 25th of such November. The SecretaryTreasurer shall determine whether such member is eligible to vote such absentee ballot. The Secretary-Treasurer, if he determines that such member is so eligible, shall by the 30th of such November, send by registered mail, return receipt requested or an equivalent mail service, to the address so designated by such member, a “Ballot”, after removing the perforated numbered stub, together with the hereinbefore mentioned “Ballot” envelope, and mailing envelope addressed to the depository, except that printed on the face of such mailing envelope shall be the words “Absentee Ballot” and appropriate vot- Continued on next page Seafarers LOG 9 9/28/2012 11:53:34 AM �Information for the 2012 Election of Officers SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes & Inland Waters District/NMU Continued from Page 9 ing instructions shall accompany such mailing to the member. If the Secretary-Treasurer determines that such member is ineligible to receive such absentee ballot, he shall nevertheless send such member the aforementioned ballot with accompanying material except that the mailing envelope addressed to the depository shall have printed on the face thereof the words “Challenged Absentee Ballot.” The Secretary-Treasurer shall keep records of all of the foregoing, including the reasons for determining such member’s ineligibility, which records shall be open for inspection by full book members and upon the convening of the Union Tallying Committee, presented to them. The Secretary-Treasurer shall send to all Ports the names and book numbers of the members to whom absentee ballots were sent. (f) All ballots to be counted must be received by the depository no later than the January 5th immediately subsequent to the election year and must be postmarked no later than 12 midnight December 31st of the election year. Section 4. (a) At the close of the last day of the period for securing ballots, the Port Agent in each Port, in addition to his duties set forth above, shall deliver or mail to Headquarters by registered or certified mail, attention Union Tallying Committee, all unused ballots and shall specifically set forth by serial number and amount the unused ballots so forwarded. (b) The Union Tallying Committee shall consist of twenty (20) full book members. Two (2) shall be elected from each of the ten (10) Ports of New York, Philadelphia, Baltimore, Mobile, New Orleans, Houston, Detroit-Algonac, San Francisco, St. Louis and Piney Point. The election shall be held at the regular meeting in December of the election year or, if the Executive Board otherwise determines prior thereto, at a special meeting held in the aforesaid Ports, on the first business day of the last week of said month. No officer, Assistant Vice-President, Port Agent, or candidate for office, or the job of Assistant Vice-President, or Port Agent shall be eligible for election to this Committee except as provided for in Article X, Section 4. In addition to the duties herein set forth, the Union Tallying Committee shall be charged with the tallying of all the ballots and the preparation of a closing report setting forth, in complete detail, the results of the election, including a complete accounting of all ballots and stubs, and reconciliation of the same with the rosters and receipts of the Port Agents, all with detailed reference to serial numbers and amount and with each total broken down into Port totals. The Union Tallying Committee shall have access to all election records and files for their inspection, examination and verification. The report shall clearly detail all discrepancies discovered and shall contain recommendations for the treatment of these discrepancies. All members of the Committee shall sign the report, without prejudice, however, to the right of any member thereof to submit a dissenting report as to the accuracy of the count and the validity of the ballots, with pertinent details. In connection with the tally of ballots there shall be no counting of ballots until all mailing envelopes containing valid ballots have first been opened, the ballot envelopes removed intact and then all of such ballot envelopes mixed together, after which such ballot envelopes shall be opened and counted in such multiples as the Committee may deem expedient and manageable. The Committee shall resolve all issues on challenged ballots and then tally those found valid utilizing the same procedure as provided in the preceding sentence either jointly or separately. (c) The members of the Union Tallying Committee shall, after their election, proceed to the Port in which Headquarters is located, to arrive at that Port no later than January 5th of the year immediately after the election year. Each member of the Committee not elected from the Port in which Headquarters is located shall be reimbursed for transportation, meals, and lodging expenses occasioned by their traveling to and returning from that Port. Committee members elected from the Port in which Headquarters is located shall be similarly reimbursed, except for transportation. Committee members shall receive a per diem in an amount determined by the Secretary-Treasurer but in no event shall they receive an amount less than the AB Green hourly rate as specified in the current union industry wide contract for eight hours for each day of service commencing with the day subsequent to their election and ending on the day they complete their service or, if applicable, return to the Port from which they were elected. The Union Tallying Committee shall elect a chairman from among themselves and, subject to the express terms of this Constitution, adopt its own procedures. All decisions of such Committee and the contents of their report shall be valid if made by a majority vote, provided there be a quorum in attendance, which quorum is hereby fixed at ten (10). The Committee, but not less than a quorum thereof, shall have the sole right and duty to obtain all mailed ballots and the other mailed election material from the depository and to insure their safe custody during the course of the Committee’s proceedings. The proceedings of the Committee, except for their organizational meeting and their actual preparation of the closing report and dissent therefrom, if any, shall be open to any member provided he observes decorum. Any candidate may act as an observer and/or designate another member to act as his observer at the counting of the ballots. In no event shall issuance of the above referred to closing report of the Committee be delayed beyond January 31st immediately subsequent to the close of the election year. In the discharge of its duties, the Committee may call upon and utilize the services of clerical employees of the Union. The Committee shall be discharged upon the completion of the issuance and dispatch of its report as required in this Article. In the event a recheck and recount is ordered pursuant to this Article, the Committee shall be reconstituted, except that if any member thereof is not available, a substitute therefore shall be elected from the appropriate Port at a special meeting held for that purpose as soon as possible. (d) The report of the committee shall be made up in sufficient copies to comply with the following requirements: two (2) copies shall be mailed by the Committee to each Port Agent and the Secretary-Treasurer no later than January 31st immediately subsequent to the close of the election year. As soon as these copies are received, each Port Agent shall post one (1) copy of the report on the bulletin board in a conspicuous manner and notify the Secretary-Treasurer, in writing, as to the date of such posting. This copy shall be kept posted until after the Election Report Meeting which shall be the March regular membership meeting immediately following the close of the election year. At the Election Report Meeting, the other copy of the report shall be read verbatim. (e) Any full book member claiming a violation of the election and balloting procedure or the conduct of the same, shall within seventy two (72) hours of the occurrence of the claimed violation notify the Secretary-Treasurer at Headquarters, in writing by certified mail, of the same, setting forth his name, book number and the details so that appropriate corrective action, if warranted, may be taken. The Secretary-Treasurer shall expeditiously investigate the facts concerning the claimed violation, take such action as may be necessary, if any, and make a report and recommendation, if necessary, a copy of which shall be sent to the member and the original shall be filed for the Union Tallying Committee for their appropriate action, report and recommendation, if any. The foregoing shall not be applicable to matters involving the Credentials Committee’s action or report, the provisions of Article XIII, Sections 1 and 2 being the pertinent provisions applicable to such matters. All protests as to any and all aspects of the election and balloting procedures or the conduct of the same not passed upon by the Union Tallying Committee in its report, excluding therefrom matters involving the Credentials Committee’s action or report as provided in the last sentence of the immediately preceding paragraph, but including the procedure and report of the Union Tallying Committee, shall be filed in writing by certified mail with the Secretary-Treasurer at Headquarters to be received no later than the February 25th immediately subsequent to the close of the election year. It shall be the responsibility of the member to insure that his written protest is received by the Secretary-Treasurer no later than such February 25th. The Secretary-Treasurer shall forward copies of such written protest to all Ports in sufficient time to be read at the Election Report Meeting. The written protest shall contain the full book member’s name, book number, and all details constituting the protest. (f) At the Election Report Meeting the report and recommendation of the Union Tallying Committee, including but not limited to discrepancies, protests passed upon by them, as well as protests filed with the Secretary-Treasurer as provided for in Section (e) immediately above shall be acted upon by the meeting. A majority vote of the membership shall decide what action, if any, in accordance with the Constitution shall be taken thereon, which action, however, shall not include the ordering of a special vote, unless reported discrepancies or protested procedure or conduct found to have occurred and to be violative of the Constitution affected the results of the vote for any office or job, in which event the special vote shall be restricted to such office, offices and/or job or jobs, as the case may be. A majority of the membership at the Election Report Meetings may order a recheck and recount when a dissent to the closing report has been issued by three (3) or more members of the Union Tallying Committee. Except for the contingencies provided for in this Section 4(f), the closing report shall be accepted as final. There shall be no further protest or appeal from the action of the majority of the membership at the Election Report Meetings. (g) Any special vote ordered pursuant to Section 4(f) shall be commenced within ninety (90) days after the first day of the month immediately subsequent to the Election Report Meetings mentioned above. The depository shall be the same as designated for the election from which the special vote is ordered. And the procedures shall be the same as provided for in Section 3, except where specific dates are provided for, the days shall be the dates applicable which provide for the identical time and days originally provided for in Section 3. The Election Report Meeting for the aforesaid special vote shall be that meeting immediately subsequent to the report of the Union Tallying Committee separated by one (1) calendar month. Section 5. Elected Officers and Jobholders. A candidate unopposed for any office or job shall be deemed elected to such office or job notwithstanding that his name may appear on the ballot. The Union Tallying Committee shall not be required to tally completely the results of the voting for such unopposed candidate but shall certify in their report that such unopposed candidate has been elected to such office or job. The Election Report Meeting shall accept the above certification of the Union Tallying Committee without change. Section 6. Installation into Office and the Job of Assistant Vice-President or Port Agent. (a) The person elected shall be that person having the largest number of votes cast for the particular office or job involved. Where more than one (1) person is to be elected for a particular office or job, the proper number of candidates receiving the successively highest number of votes shall be declared elected. These determinations shall be made only from the results deemed final and accepted as provided in this Article. It shall be the duty of the President to notify each individual elected. (b) The duly elected officers and other job holders shall take over their respective offices and jobs and assume the duties thereof at midnight of the night of the Election Report Meeting, or the next regular meeting, depending upon which meeting the results as to each of the foregoing are deemed final and accepted, as provided in this Article. The term of their predecessors shall continue up to, and expire at that time, notwithstanding anything to the contrary contained in Article XI, Section 1. This shall not apply where the successful candidate cannot assume his office because he is at sea. In such event, a majority vote of the membership may grant additional time for the assumption of the office or job. In the event of the failure of the newly-elected President to assume office the provisions of Article X, Section 12 shall apply until the expiration of the term. All other cases of failure to assume office shall be dealt with as decided by a majority vote of the membership. Section 7. The Secretary-Treasurer is specifically charged with the preservation and retention of all election records, including the ballots, as required by law, and is directed and authorized to issue such other and further directives as to the election procedures as are required by law, which directives shall be part of the election procedures of this Union. Union’s Constitutional Committee Submits Report We, the undersigned Constitutional Committee, were elected at a Special Meeting held in Piney Point on August 14, 2012, in accordance with Article XXV, Section 2 of our Constitution. We have had referred to us and studied, proposed Constitutional Amendments contained in Resolutions submitted by our Executive Board. These Resolutions, containing the proposed amendments, prior to their submission to us, were adopted by a majority vote of the membership. The provisions of these Resolutions including their “WHEREAS” clauses, are contained in this report so that all members will have available to them their full text for review and study at the same time that they read this, our Report and Recommendations. First, Whereas, Article XIII, Section 1 of the Constitution of this Union, which deals with the nomination process 10 Seafarers LOG 11768_LOG.indd 10 for the election of officers, specifies that, in addition to satisfying all other constitutional eligibility requirements to run for office, anyone nominated must also sign a certificate certifying that he or she has not been convicted of certain specific criminal offenses or been a member of the Communist Party during the five year period preceding the year of nominations; and Whereas, legal counsel has advised that the relevant law has been amended which extended the disqualifying period from five years to thirteen years; and Whereas, legal counsel has also advised that judicial precedent no longer allows a disqualification from running for or holding union office solely based upon an individual’s Communist party membership, NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT, an amendment to Article XIII, section 1 of the Constitution of the Seafarers International Union, AGLIWD, be included on the upcoming ballot for the election of officers to change the language on the required certificate to read as follows: “I hereby certify that the during the past thirteen (13) years I have not been convicted of, or served any part of a prison term resulting from a conviction for robbery, bribery, extortion, embezzlement, grand larceny, burglary, arson, violation of narcotics laws, murder, rape, assault with intent to kill, assault which inflicts grievous bodily injury, or violation of Title II or III of the Landrum Griffin Act, or conspiracy to commit such crimes. In addition, I certify that I support the Constitution of the United States of America, its institutions and form of government.” Second, Whereas, the name of this Union was chosen decades ago when several individual districts and entities came together to form one union; and Whereas, all of the individual districts and entities have been successfully merged into one Union which acts as a National Union affiliated with the Seafarers International Union of North America, AFL-CIO; and Whereas, the Executive Board of this Union, upon resolution duly introduced, seconded and voted upon unanimously, on July 20, 2012, agreed to submit to the membership at their next regular membership meeting a proposal to amend the constitution to change the name of the Union; Be it resolved that, if approved by a majority vote of the membership, the name of this Union shall be the Seafarers International Union of North America, Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters. We further recommend, if it is reasonably possible, that a copy of our Committee’s Report containing the proposed Resolutions and membership action taken to date, be printed in the Seafarers LOG, October 2012 issue, so that the membership will be kept abreast as to all facts and actions taken as of this time. In addition, we recommend that copies of such LOG issue, to the extent possible, be made available to the membership at all Union offices and Halls during the months of November and December 2012. Your Constitutional Committee wishes to thank the Union, its officers, representatives, members and counsel for their cooperation and assistance during our deliberations and to assure all members that we believe the adoption of the proposed Resolutions will serve the needs of the Union and the membership. DATE: August 16, 2012 Fraternally submitted, Constitutional Committee October 2012 9/28/2012 11:53:35 AM �t n e v E s t h g li h g i H 2012 SIUNA Convention ‘Delivering Since 1938’ The 2012 Quinquennial Convention of the Seafarers International Union of North America was a total success. Held Sept. 11-12 at the union-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md., the event was packed with memorable moments, many of which were captured in the photos on this page and those appearing on the next seven that folllow. Clockwise from left, newly elected SIUNA officers were all smiles shortly after taking their respective oaths of office. SIU Legislative Director Brian Schoeneman arrives at the center’s Training Recreation Center (TRC) hotel for the convention while Monsignor Karl Chimiak of the St. Georges Catholic Church delivers the invocation signaling the convention’s start. SIUNA President Michael Sacco greets delegates and guests during his opening remarks while members of the audience stand to applaud a guest speaker. President Sacco joins PHC VP Don Nolan, SIU Legal Counsel Leslie Tarantola, SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel and Unlicensed Apprentice Richard Lawson in the Pledge of Allegiance. Maritime Trades Department Executive Secretary-Treasurer Daniel Duncan checks in at the TRC front desk. An estimated 250 delegates and guests attended the convention. October 2012 11768_LOG_X2.indd 11 Seafarers LOG 11 10/2/2012 7:15:49 AM �West Virginia Congressman Promises Fight for Jones Act, Cargo Preference U.S. Rep. Nick Rahall (D-W.Va.) came to the 2012 SIUNA Convention Sept. 11 vowing to fight against Washington’s recent attacks on the Jones Act, cargo preference laws and the American maritime industry as a whole. Speaking to the gathering of delegates and officials at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education (PHC), Rahall called the attacks on the maritime industry “perplexing” and “disappointing.” “This, I believe, is a disservice to the American public,” said Rahall, who serves as the ranking member on the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee. “It’s certainly been an impediment to the maritime industry. America, at its core, has been a maritime nation since its founding.” Specifically, he pointed to recent attacks on the Jones Act and the nation’s cargo preference laws. The maritime industry and many members of Congress were blindsided this summer when a collection of harmful changes to cargo preference laws were quietly attached last-minute to an unrelated transportation bill. The changes, which went initially unnoticed, reduced the mandated U.S.-flag share of federal food aid shipments from 75 percent to 50 percent. “This devastating provision would, according to the Maritime Administration, eliminate 640 seafarers’ jobs and an additional 2,000 maritime-related jobs and deny to U.S. carriers 500,000 metric tons of valuable cargo,” Rahall said. Determined to keep that from happening, Rahall said he joined fellow Reps. Elijah Cummings (D-Md.) and Rick Larsen (DWash.) and introduced legislation to repeal the cargo preference changes. “Certainly, you have my pledge to work very hard for this legislation,” Rahall said as applause filled the PHC auditorium. “I appreciate the support of the SIU – it’s going to be crucial as we try to move this bill.” Rahall also discussed his work to counter recent attacks against the Jones Act. While the Jones Act mandates only American-owned, -built and -crewed vessels can transport cargo among U.S. ports, several waivers were granted by the administration last year when it tapped the country’s Strategic Petroleum Reserve (SPR). The waivers, which allowed foreign vessels to transport oil from the reserve, “drew a strong, bipartisan rebuke from the Congress and generated outrage throughout the U.S. maritime community,” Rahall said, adding the waivers took good jobs away from American mariners. “I certainly do not believe that spurring growth in our own economy equates to creating jobs for your foreign competitors,” he said. “That’s not an equal equation, in my opinion.” The House Subcommittee on Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation, on which Rahall sits, held a hearing on the matter in June. That hearing, Rahall added, showed the administration that Congress was serious about protecting the Jones Act and would not accept further attacks against it. SIUNA President Michael Sacco (left) joins U.S. Rep. Nick Rahall (D-W.Va.) for this photo shortly after the congressman addressed the convention. “We will continue to monitor this program and try our best to fend off threats to the Jones Act in order to protect the livelihoods of American maritime workers,” Ra- hall said. “We expect any future release of oil from the SPR to provide economic opportunities and jobs for U.S. mariners and not foreign mariners.” U.S. Military Depends on Strong Merchant Marine MSC Commander, Retired Maritime Administrator Stress Industry’s Value, Cooperation The commander of the U.S. Military Sealift Command (MSC) and a retired deputy commander of the U.S. Transportation Command reminded delegates at the Seafarers International Union of North America convention that America’s military depends on a strong, reliable U.S. Merchant Marine. Rear Adm. Mark Buzby, MSC commander, addressed the gathering Sept. 11 in Piney Point, Md., while Vice Adm. Al Herberger, USN (Ret) spoke the next day. In addition to his tenure at the Transportation Command, Herberger also served as U.S. maritime administrator during the Clinton administration. Buzby emphasized the “spirit of cooperation and partnership built on trust” that exists between his agency and American SIU VP Gov’t Services Kermett Mangram (left), MSC Commander Rear Adm. Mark Buzby 12 Seafarers LOG 11768_LOG_X2.indd 12 maritime labor. “We could not do it without you,” Buzby stated. “We absolutely must have the strong minds and strong backs of your membership to help us execute our mission: our vital part of national security and national defense.” A current example of cooperation between unions and the agency, Buzby noted, is a revised agreement covering thousands of civil service mariners. That agreement, known as the CMPI 610, “is the first major revision that we have made to [it] in 25 years, and it addresses some of the critical issues faced by our mariners,” he stated. “The real story, though, is the cooperation, respect and partnership between MSC and the unions – the Seafarers chief among them – that showed again through this negotiation process. It was long and hard and went on for at least two and a half years if not three. The end result is an agreement that everyone involved can use and understand and, most importantly, can be fairly compensated by.” Buzby specifically praised SIU Assistant Vice President Government Services Chet Wheeler, Representative Kate Hunt and Counsel Deborah Kleinberg for being “absolutely key to the quality agreement that was struck. Seafarers are very well-served by these professionals.” (They weren’t at the convention because they were visiting ships, along with MSC representatives, to explain the updated agreement.) The commander also said he’d recently approved the agency’s strategic plan for the next five years – and the convention delegates were the first people outside of MSC to hear about it. Buzby said the plan identifies four “high-level goals,” including providing task-ready ships; developing, enhancing and enabling the agency’s work force; focusing on the customer so our armed forces benefit; and managing organi- zational change and growth, in part because “I have every expectation that MSC will have more missions and more responsibility in the coming years, but with a smaller budget. “Our combined efforts work toward maintaining a strong U.S. maritime industry that’s critical to our continued leadership in a world that depends on the seas and the maritime trade,” he continued. “None of it will happen without U.S. Mariners manning the lines.” Herberger remains an effective, highly regarded industry spokesman. A former union merchant mariner and Navy commander, he cited the American military operations in Iraq and Afghanistan as the latest examples of U.S. Seafarers standing up as the nation’s fourth arm of defense. “During the past 10 years the U.S. military relied on commercial U.S.-flag shipping and worldwide intermodal logistics systems to support U.S. and coalition forces in Iraq and Afghanistan,” he stated. “Since 2002, almost 52 million measurement tons of cargo have been delivered to the U.S. coalition forces by sealift.” Quoting retired TRANSCOM Commander Gen. Duncan McNabb, he further pointed out that sealift “has been responsible for delivering over 90 percent of all the cargo to Afghanistan and Iraq, because of the superb volunteer participation of commercial U.S.-flag vessels and mariners.” Herberger said that although it may seem repetitive to express need for support of America’s key maritime programs – the Jones Act, cargo preference laws, and the Maritime Security Program – the sentiments are worth repeating. “It remains so important that members of Congress, and those in the executive branch, the media, the American public, understand the important role played by commercial vessels and the civilian, union Vice Adm. Al Herberger U.S.Navy (Ret.) mariners in ensuring sealift support for U.S. military forces worldwide. The rough seas have to be calmed,” he said, adding that the industry constantly is attacked by foreignflag interests. He continued, “Our overall objective that we need to continue to work together on is to increase public awareness of the value of the U.S. Merchant Marine and the maritime industry. We need to promote the industry in all facets, as it exists now and should be in the future. The industry has involved, and so must all advocacy…. We must get the Maritime Administration back in the game of promoting the industry. That’s a mouthful for me, being a former maritime administrator, because I know what should be done and what has been done in the past, and why we need it badly again.” Herberger concluded by mentioning the excellent work of the Navy League of the United States, which promotes the U.S. Merchant Marine in addition to the Navy, Marine Corps and Coast Guard. October 2012 10/2/2012 7:15:53 AM �Paddy Crumlin ITF President, MUA Nat’l Secretary Steve Cotton ITF Maritime Coordinator Jackie Smith President, Norwegian Seafarers’ Union International Maritime Labor Officials Emphasize Solidarity, Political Action The Seafarers International Union of North America’s quinquennial convention Sept. 11-12 at times had a strong international flavor, thanks to powerful speeches from four high-ranking maritime labor officials from overseas. Addressing the convention in Piney Point, Md., (in order of appearance) were International Transport Workers’ Federation Maritime Coordinator Steve Cotton and ITF President Paddy Crumlin on Sept. 11, followed the next day by Dr. Conrad Oca, president of the Associated Marine Officers’ and Seamen’s Union of the Philippines, and Norwegian Seafarers’ Union President Jackie Smith. They all stressed the importance of political action across the globe as well as international solidarity. Cotton, who is charge of ITF inspectors around the world, is expected to become the federation’s general secretary later this year. He urged convention delegates from the U.S. to support the re-election of President Obama, and said it is vital “that each and every one of you mobilize to ensure that those two right-wing politicians (the Republican nominees) and their declared determination to destroy the North American labor movement do not – do not – make it to the White House on the sixth of November.” Cotton then praised the work and leadership of SIUNA President Michael Sacco and Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel, who also chairs the ITF Seafarers’ Section. He cited “their personal courage and commitment to the labor movement and [their] determination to build a brighter trade union future.” Envisioning the ITF’s future, Cotton said the federation (to which the SIU is affiliated) “is in a real period of change. We have an organization with a great history. The ITF has historically been involved in providing information, servicing committees and providing solidarity from one union to another – all good things – but now, we want to become an organization that’s more proactive, an organization that will build projects to empower unions, to give them more leverage, to give them more opportunities to build their membership. And with your help, we can achieve that.” He added, “As the workers of the world come under continuous attack … we have to build on our capacity to support each other. We have to build on our opportunity to build relationships across the transport modes, not just seafarers but dockers, road workers, rail workers and other areas of the transport mode.” Crumlin, in addition to his role with the ITF, is national secretary of the Maritime Union of Australia – a position equivalent to that of a union president in the U.S. Discussing a huge legislative win for Australian mariners that was secured earlier this year, as well as other political victories for the industry around the world, he stated, “These things don’t happen accidentally. They happen because we made them happen. They happen because we’re determined to keep our jobs in our own countries. They happen because there’s plenty of bite in the dog – we are prepared to go and lay it on the line.” October 2012 11768_LOG_X2.indd 13 He talked about the loss of American and Australian jobs to other countries and said cooperative efforts are needed to bring – and keep – those jobs back home. “We have to reach out to other unions and we have to reach out to the American people and the Australian people and say, what sort of America do you want to live in? What sort of Australia do you want to live in? If you want to live in an America with dignity and decency and respect, if you want to live in an America where workers have a future, where workers can get a home, where workers can have health care…. If you want to live in America where working men and women are the bones and the skin and the flesh and the organs of democracy, then you have to get behind us.” Following up on Cotton’s point about changes in the ITF’s approach, Crumlin said, “We needed a new unionism that was a global unionism, that would reconcile differences between developing countries and developed countries. We need a new unionism that would take on the greed that we saw in the global financial crisis, that ripped away more wealth from generations of working men and women in this country and around the world than ever before in the history of humanity…. And when we were going to fight that, we couldn’t do it alone. We had to reach out and think differently. “Everywhere there is a non-union contract, we should attack it like a cancer. It’s a cancer and we’re the antidote…. Let’s do it smart, let’s do it politically, let’s do it industrially, let’s do it together. That’s what the SIU is about and that’s what the ITF is about.” Oca, in addition to serving as president of AMOSUP, directs four union-owned and union-operated seamen’s hospitals in various countries that serve the union’s members and their dependents. He told the delegates that U.S. unions deserve ongoing credit for “making it possible for millions of American citizens to enjoy the quality and standard of life that is still the benchmark for the rest of the world.” Oca noted that piracy remains a deadly threat for the world’s mariners, but also pointed out that improvements have happened thanks to joint international efforts. “We are heartened by the progress achieved in the fight against piracy, thanks in large part to the efforts of the ITF Seafarers’ Section, by the SIUNA’s very own Dave Heindel, who as chair spearheaded the Save our Seafarers campaign, or SOS Campaign, more than a year ago,” Oca said. He continued, “The SOS, through program advertisements and opening of its website has been able to mobilize thousands of citizens around the world to urge their governments to do something to stop piracy attacks on innocent Seafarers. Filipino Seafarers would like to thank the countless SIUNA members throughout America who have logged onto the SOS website and have sent their anti-piracy messages to President Obama and other elected officials. “We hope these efforts succeeded in raising public consciousness and a global level of awareness that can hopefully lead to clear, positive and sustained multilateral actions by all Dr. Conrad Oca President, AMOSUP governments and stakeholders. More importantly, the SOS Campaign has clearly shown that seafarers can best achieve success by working together. It is a pragmatic response that highlights the need of international solidarity and cooperation in running a successful campaign.” Other fruitful examples of joint efforts include the International Bargaining Forum and the Maritime Labor Convention of 2006, he added. Smith was the convention’s final guest speaker. She pointed out the SIUNA’s Norwegian heritage in Andrew Furuseth (founder of the forerunner to the SIU) and Harry Lundeberg (the SIU’s first president), who positively influenced mariners worldwide. Examining current maritime events, she stated, “The cooperation and solidarity between not only the SIU but also NSU and all seafarer unions globally is extraordinary. I personally have been privileged with knowing and learning from Brother Sacco, Brother Heindel and the late Brother John Fay (former SIU executive vice president). The SIU’s standing internationally is not only because Dave is the chair of the Seafarers’ Section, but also because of the support and knowledge that the SIU brings to the international scene.” She concluded by stressing the importance of the upcoming elections. “Yours is happening in two months; ours is happening next year,” Smith said. “And it is so important to have a government that is labor-friendly and not attacking the labor movement and workers’ rights. These are hard- and longwon rights that we have internationally, you within the U.S., us within Norway. So, brothers and sisters, we need to remind our governments that priority number one needs to be decent work for all.” Seafarers LOG 13 10/2/2012 7:15:56 AM �Convention Speakers Delegates & Guests “When I look back on our history, the thing that stands out is progress. Today’s mariner is more competent and bettertrained than ever. As the industry has evolved, we’ve stayed ahead of the game through training and safety measures....” Augie Tellez SIU Executive VP Michel Dejardins President, SIU of Canada Tom Bethel President, AMO David Heindel SIUNA Sec. - Treasurer Dean Corgey SIUNA VP Thomas Orzechowski SIUNA VP Kermett Mangram SIUNA VP Nick Marrone SIUNA VP Robert Kiefer National Executive VP AMO Anthony Poplawski President, MFOW Jim Given VP, SIU of Canada Dave Connolly SUP VP Desiree Gralewicz Secretary-Treasurer SIU of Canada Jose Leonard Natl. Secretary-Treasurer AMO Roman Gralewicz President Emeritus SIU of Canada Eugene Irish UIW VP Herb Perez UIW VP Maggie Bowen SIU Plans Administrator Catina Sicoli Comptroller SIU of Canada Lou Delma UIS VP Archie Ware SIU Asst. VP Jim McGee SIU Asst. VP Nick Celona SIU Asst. VP Ambrose Cucinotta SIU Asst. VP Bryan Powell SIU Asst. VP Donna Walsh SIUNA VP Karen Horton-Gennette SEATU VP Michel Galarneau VP, SIU of Canada Bill O’Brien VP, MFU Tom Walsh IPTW Jeff Turkus SIU Port Agent Nicole Walsh IPTW Todd Brdak SIU Port Agent Hazel Galbiso SIU Port Agent Jimmy White SIU Port Agent Georg Kenny SIU Port Agent Elizabeth Brown SIU Port Agent Chad Partridge SIU Port Agent ---SIUNA President Michael Sacco, Sept. 11, 2012 George Tricker SIUNA VP Joseph Soresi SIUNA VP Don Nolan VP, Paul Hall Center John Spadaro UIW National Director Ernie Grecco President Metropolitan Baltimore AFL-CIO U.S. Rep. Nick Rahall (D-W.Va.) Rear Adm. Mark Buzby MSC Commander Tom Ellis Finance Director Union Sportsmen’s Alliance Fred Mason Maryland/D.C. AFL-CIO President 14 Seafarers LOG 11768_LOG_X2.indd 14-15 Steve Cotton ITF President, MUA Nat’l Secretary Mike Jewell MEBA President Jackie Smith President Norwegian Seafarers’ Union Paddy Crumlin ITF President, MUA Nat’l Secretary Tom Bethel AMO President Dr. Conrad Oca President, AMOSUP Vice Adm. Al Herberger, U.S. Navy (Ret.) Valerie Cole Union Plus Representative Pat Vandegrift SIU Port Agent Joe Vincenzo SIU Port Agent October 2012 Becky Sleeper SIU Port Agent Mark von Siegel SIU Patrolman October 2012 Kris Hopkins SIU Port Agent Tracey Mayhew UIW Representative Chris Westbrook SIU Port Agent Mike Given Organizing Director SIU of Canada Joe Baselice SIU Port Agent John Hoskins SIU Port Agent Vince O’Halloran SUP Branch Agent Amancio Crespo SIU Port Agent Lori Cornell SEATU Rep. Mike Russo SIU Port Agent Juan Rios Sugar Workers Union Seafarers LOG 15 10/2/2012 7:28:48 AM �Union Leaders: Election Vital to Workers’ Rights Arguing the stakes for the labor movement couldn’t be higher, a pair of Maryland union leaders urged delegates at the 2012 SIUNA convention to take an active role in November’s election. “Our union movement is at a crossroads,” said Maryland and District of Columbia (D.C.) AFL-CIO President Fred Mason as he spoke Sept. 12 at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. “There are forces out there that literally want to kill our movement.” Those forces, emboldened by the antiworker tactics of Wisconsin Gov. Scott Walker and others, have contributed hundreds of millions of dollars to the campaign of Republican Presidential Nominee Mitt Romney. If Romney and his running mate, Congressman Paul Ryan win, Metropolitan Baltimore AFL-CIO President Ernie Grecco said in his speech Sept. 11, the rights of workers would be threatened nationwide. “These two candidates are some of the worst we’ve ever had to face,” Grecco said, referring to Romney and Ryan’s support of so-called right-to-work laws and other antiworker measures. “They’re out to get us.” While both Grecco and Mason acknowledged President Barack Obama’s term has not been perfect, they agreed that a Romney victory would be devastating to working people and the labor movement. They called on the delegates to reach out to friends, families and fellow members to ensure that doesn’t happen. “It’s up to us to spread the word,” Mason said. “The choices for American workers are very clear.” Grecco said it was vital for members to ensure everyone around them had all the facts. Workers need to know, he added, that a Romney presidency would strike a blow Metropolitan Baltimore AFL-CIO President Ernie Grecco emphasizes the need for union members to consider the facts before voting. against fair wages and collective bargaining. “If you are a construction worker and you vote for Romney, something is wrong. If you are a teacher or a firefighter and you vote for Romney something is drastically wrong,” Grecco said. “We know a lot of our members are going to vote … Republican. The thing is, they don’t know all the facts.” The good news, Mason said, is the attacks against unions and collective bargaining have put those issues at the forefront of national politics. Maryland/D.C. AFL-CIO President Fred Mason tells delegates the labor movement’s future is at stake. “The public debates that are happening on the heels of these attacks really helped to educate people on why collective bargaining exists,” he said. “Communities that have strong unions or a strong union workforce enjoy greater productivity and a higher standard of living. We have to capitalize on these discussions about unions and explain to folks what it means to be a union member.” Grecco also called on delegates to reach out to and volunteer for pro-worker campaigns. “We don’t want to take anything for granted. We have to work for these individuals,” he said. “We don’t want to wake up the day after the election and have so many of our friends who had good (pro-union) voting records go down.” The stakes, Mason said, are simply too high. “Our future is at stake. Our children’s future is at stake,” Mason said. “If we don’t succeed in preserving that, the conditions will get worse. Talk about high unemployment now – it will get worse.” AMO, MEBA Presidents Rally Support for Merchant Marine The leaders of two major maritime labor organizations told the 2012 SIUNA convention the U.S.-flag fleet had no intention of lying down amid the recent flurry of attacks against American mariners coming from Washington, D.C. In separate speeches at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education (PHC) Sept. 12, American Maritime Officers President Tom Bethel and Marine Engineers’ Beneficial Association President Mike Jewell said their organizations would vigorously fight those attacks. Merchant mariners came to the aid of the country in times of need, they said, and now those mariners will come to the aid of each other. Mike Jewell MEBA President 16 Seafarers LOG 11768_LOG.indd 16 “I’ve never seen us under attack like this in my life,” Bethel said. “We’re ready to fight any attempt that threatens the jobs, security or way of life of any of our respective memberships.” Bethel and Jewell said one of the biggest threats to the U.S.-flag fleet came attached this summer to an unrelated highway transportation bill. Quietly inserted into that bill were provisions that hammered existing cargo preference laws, reducing the mandated U.S.-flag share of federal food aid shipments from 75 percent to 50 percent. Jewel said the U.S.-flag fleet would lose 16 ships and more than 700 direct mariner jobs if those provisions are allowed to take effect. “Our brothers and sisters out there, they’re going to lose their jobs if we let this go through,” Jewel said. “Everybody in this room gets it.” The way to prevent those things from happening, he added, was to make sure everyone else gets it, too. While the merchant marine has played a vital role during times of war and national emergencies, Jewel said the public often forgets about the fleet’s important work. He called on the SIUNA delegates and officials to take an active role in spreading the word about U.S. Merchant Mariners and encourage others to do so as well. “Where we have failed – and where we can’t fail again – is taking it to the public,” he said. “And that’s where we need to go. Tell them about maritime, tell them what we do.” Bethel, meanwhile, called for an aggressive approach when dealing with Congress. “This is the most dysfunctional Congress I’ve ever seen in my life,” he said. “The fact is, if we don’t play the game there, we’re out of business. Since I’ve been president, I’m proud to say the SIU and the AMO, our political team, has never been better and never worked more closely.” That work appears to be paying off. Several members of Congress, including Reps. Elijah Cummings (DMd.), Rick Larsen, (D-Wash.), Jeff Landry (R-La.) and Tom Bethel AMO President Nick Rahall (D-W.Va.) – who spoke at the convention – are working to reverse this summer’s cargo preference changes. In the meantime, Bethel and Jewel said, U.S. mariners would continue doing what they do best. “We’re going to deliver the cargo to every port in the world on time, every time,” Bethel said. “When there’s a war, when there’s a conflict, when there’s a hurricane, when there’s some kind of emergency, they’re going to call on the merchant marine. “We’re going to survive,” he added. “That’s what we do.” October 2012 9/28/2012 11:54:27 AM �Members Urged to Take Advantage of Union Plus Potentially, thousands of dollars in financial aid and savings are waiting for SIU members, Union Plus Representative Valerie Cole told the 2012 SIUNA Convention Sept. 11. Those members just have to reach out and grab it. “Union Plus programs help your members buy their homes, ensure their futures, travel for less and send their children to college,” Cole said as she addressed the convention at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. “Hard-working union members and their families deserve unique value, fair terms and exceptional service.” Since its founding by the AFL-CIO in 1986, Union Plus has used the collective bargaining power of unions to provide discounted products and services to union families. Currently, the program offers more than 40 benefits in categories ranging from housing and health care to higher education and entertainment. “That is the power of belonging to a union,” Cole said. Union Plus has been especially valuable to members in recent years, as the Great Recession has resulted in widespread job losses and financial strain. Union Plus has spent more than $14 million the last few years to help members who faced financial hardships. More than $9 million of that went to mortgage assistance for members facing foreclosure on their homes. “In times of job loss and medical emergency and financial hardship we offer a helping hand,” Cole said. “It helps members keep homes if they lose their job, become disabled or can’t work.” Union Sportsmen’s Alliance Promotes Outdoor Efforts Outdoor activities like hunting and fishing are immensely popular within the union community, and the Union Sportsmen’s Alliance (USA) has spent the last five years expanding outdoor offerings nationwide. While the organization has only been around since 2007, USA Finance Director Tom Ellis told the 2012 SIUNA Convention Sept. 11 it’s already done a lot of good. Boasting more than 25,000 members, the USA hosts 25 annual shooting events and provides union volunteers who offer skills and resources to expand outdoor opportunities and conserve wildlife habitats. “Seventy percent of all AFL-CIO union members hunt, fish or shoot or [enjoy] the outdoors,” Ellis told the audience at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. “Our goal is to use that vehicle … to be the common glue to get everyone together.” Ellis pointed to the USA’s Boots on the Ground initiative – a program in which skilled union workers volunteer their services on projects designed to improve access to hunting, fishing and other outdoor-related activities. For example, Ellis said, the USA recently provided the free service of bricklayers and ironworkers to help construct a $100,000 shooting facility in Tennessee. “Through our donations of skilled labor, they’re able to do a lot more with USA official Tom Ellis says his organization boosts awareness of union members’ many positive contributions. that $100,000,” Ellis said. Once a USA-assisted project is completed, the crew constructs a plaque or banner that identifies and thanks the union workers who donated their time and services to completing the project. The result, Ellis said, is a greater sense of goodwill between the labor community and the general public. “That’s what our mission is – not to be political, but to raise awareness of the good things this community does,” he said. County Government Salutes Union’s Anniversary During the SIUNA convention, St. Mary’s County (Md.) Board of Commissioners President Jack Russell (center) presented a proclamation to the union on behalf of the board. The text commended the SIUNA on its upcoming 75th anniversary and said that SIUNA affiliate unions are “vital to America’s national and economic security.” The proclamation also recognized SIUNA unions for “their dedication and commitment to their members.” Russell is pictured with SIUNA President Michael Sacco (right) and SIUNA Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel. October 2012 11768_LOG.indd 17 Aside from helping distressed homeowners, Union Plus also helps those buying homes find competitive mortgage rates and savings on closing costs. Firsttime homeowners get even more assistance. Union plus also offers grants for members who are saving for their children’s higher education and deep discounts on college preparation courses. Members can take advantage of massive savings on clothing, travel and entertainment and cell phone service as well. It’s all about the philosophy of “delivering savings, service and solidarity,” Cole said. “That’s our foundation and we’ve been building on it ever since.” For more information on Union Plus and to sign up for benefits, visit www. unionplus.org. Valerie Cole describes some of the dozens of programs available through Union Plus. ‘At Piney Point, We Change Lives’ School’s Mission Celebrated at Waterfront Christening Riveting or not, an uninterrupted three-hour convention session may leave even the most enthusiastic delegates a bit weary. So it seemed as convention personnel strolled to the waterfront for a brief ceremony following the opening day of the SIUNA convention in Piney Point, Md., on Sept. 11. Any sluggishness quickly disappeared, however, as Paul Hall Center Trustee Tony Naccarato delivered a heartfelt, moving speech highlighting the tens of thousands of mariners who have benefited from training at the SIU-affiliated school. The occasion was a ceremonial opening of the renovated waterfront at the Paul Hall Center – a major improvement that promises to further enhance courses available at the school, not to mention the aesthetic improvement. “The SIU and the SIU family of shipowners and operators don’t only provide maritime skills at Piney Point; they also provide the graduates and the upgraders the tools they will need to pursue the American dream,” Naccarato said in rousing fashion. “Perhaps the motto of this school should be: At Piney Point, we change lives!” He added that the school’s renowned entry-level program, honored recently by the U.S. Department of Labor, may be more valuable than ever. “At a time when the middle class is struggling, Piney Point is a fountain that pours a steady stream of newly trained workers into the American middle class,” he stated. “At a time when young people are having a problem getting a foothold in our economy, we offer a helping hand and a clear path to a life of dignity, pride, and self-fulfillment. At a time, when our economy is having a problem providing many of our workers with a steady job, Piney Point and the SIU are teaching its members the skills they must have to provide a decent and secure life for their families.” Addressing the unlicensed apprentices in the crowd, Naccarato offered encouragement and realism. “The training program that has been developed at Piney Point during the past five decades is not for the faint of heart or for the lazy,” he said. “In order to complete the program, you must be a bright, committed, and disciplined person who is not afraid of hard work and is willing to pay the hard price for a better tomorrow. Excuses and mediocrity do not cut it at Piney Point…. There is a worthwhile reward at the end of your journey. One day you might be a captain, a bosun, a chief engineer or a chief steward bringing honor to yourself and this school. You might become the president of the SIU or CEO of Maersk Line or any of the other shipping companies that are represented here today. You might even start your own shipping line. Remember, we only give you the opportunity here; the rest is up to you.” Immediately following his well-received remarks, Tony Naccarato (fourth from left) joins other trustees and officials for the ceremonial ribbon-cutting. Seafarers LOG 17 9/28/2012 11:54:30 AM �Convention Committees Auditing Committee - Todd Brdak, Nick Marrone, Chairman Dean Corgey, Roman Gralewicz, Lou Delma, Augie Tellez, David Heindel and George Tricker. Legislative & Government Agencies Committee - (Seated from left) David Connolly, Nicole Walsh, Chairman Tom Bethel, (standing, from left) John Hoskins, Jeff Turkus, Jim McGee, Georg Kenny and Michael Galarneau. Officers & Affiliates Reports Committee - (Seated, from left) Herb Perez, Chairwoman Donna Walsh, Karen Horton-Gennette, (standing) Kris Hopkins, Desiree Gralewicz and John Spadaro. Convention Arrangements & Public Relations Committee - Matt Burke, Kermett Mangram, Nick Celona, Chairman Anthony Poplawski, Juan Rios, Amancio Crespo and Thomas Walsh. International Affairs Committee - (Seated, from left) Pat Vandegrift, Lori Cornell, Catina Sicoli, Joseph Soresi, (standing) Eugene Irish, Jose Leonard and Chairman Michel Desjardins. 18 Seafarers LOG 11768_LOG_X2.indd 18 Credentials Committee - (seated) Elizabeth Brown, Chairman Augie Tellez, Robert Kiefer, (standing, from left) Ambrose Cucinotta, Michael Given, Tracey Mayhew, and (far right) Archie Ware. Resolutions Committee - Christopher Holmes, Vince O’Halloran, Chairman Thomas Orzechowski, Becky Sleeper and James Given. October 2012 10/2/2012 7:17:07 AM �November & December Membership Meetings Dispatchers’ Report for Deep Sea August 16, 2012 - September 15, 2012 Port Total Registered All Groups A B C Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS Deck Department 15 6 1 20 9 0 5 20 16 2 1 1 0 1 0 1 0 2 1 2 11 2 2 3 2 1 1 9 2 4 12 15 3 12 10 3 10 29 21 3 0 5 0 2 4 0 0 10 7 1 15 5 0 3 0 0 0 19 9 4 45 14 5 30 10 1 14 84 26 6 29 31 1 25 15 1 16 60 46 2 7 3 2 6 2 1 0 6 6 3 5 4 2 10 1 0 4 9 7 2 16 4 1 7 0 0 2 26 6 3 38 17 1 32 12 0 15 80 30 3 25 24 6 11 13 3 5 31 45 12 19 5 2 16 3 1 9 40 11 4 11 5 2 3 3 1 0 10 7 3 1 3 0 0 0 0 1 2 4 0 8 2 1 3 2 0 0 11 12 4 30 15 5 33 9 1 12 58 23 6 2 0 2 5 1 0 0 4 1 2 34 10 2 22 15 2 9 59 29 8 324 171 38 244 111 16 103 569 309 74 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS Engine Department 2 3 2 4 3 3 2 5 5 2 1 0 0 1 1 0 0 0 3 1 4 3 2 4 5 2 1 7 5 1 11 3 0 11 4 0 3 16 6 1 1 0 0 1 1 0 0 3 0 0 8 4 0 2 5 0 1 14 8 0 19 9 2 12 5 1 4 32 22 2 21 16 2 13 10 0 4 45 27 7 1 3 3 1 4 1 1 2 3 3 4 0 1 6 0 0 1 8 3 1 4 1 0 2 1 0 1 7 3 0 14 10 1 12 4 1 6 28 25 5 8 10 3 8 9 1 3 18 17 5 11 7 0 8 9 1 1 20 7 3 5 1 1 6 1 1 3 5 1 1 2 2 1 0 0 0 0 2 3 1 1 4 1 0 3 0 1 1 15 1 16 8 1 11 4 0 7 24 14 2 1 0 0 2 0 0 0 3 2 0 6 16 4 5 9 1 5 20 28 8 140 100 24 109 78 12 44 260 197 44 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS Steward Department 4 0 1 5 2 1 0 5 1 2 0 0 0 0 1 0 1 0 0 0 4 3 0 3 4 0 1 8 5 0 14 2 0 6 3 0 2 19 4 1 2 1 0 1 0 0 0 4 3 0 10 1 0 4 1 0 0 18 6 0 11 5 2 16 3 1 2 27 14 1 23 7 0 13 6 0 7 27 14 0 2 3 2 1 2 1 0 1 3 1 3 0 0 2 1 0 0 9 2 1 7 4 1 2 2 0 1 10 2 2 29 5 0 20 4 0 9 37 6 0 8 15 2 11 5 2 4 17 18 2 9 5 1 9 3 0 3 25 5 5 3 0 0 2 0 0 0 4 1 0 3 1 0 3 1 0 1 3 0 0 2 1 0 1 1 0 0 3 0 0 20 2 0 14 1 0 2 30 6 0 1 1 0 2 2 0 1 1 1 0 23 2 0 21 2 0 4 35 4 1 178 58 9 136 44 5 38 283 95 16 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS Entry Department 2 10 9 2 9 3 2 5 19 21 0 3 0 0 2 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 9 0 0 3 2 1 1 6 0 7 2 0 7 0 2 1 13 5 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 0 4 5 7 2 0 8 0 5 9 7 0 7 1 5 9 2 1 1 14 9 5 7 7 0 8 5 4 6 28 20 0 0 5 0 0 2 0 1 0 3 2 4 0 1 1 2 1 1 8 2 2 1 1 1 1 1 0 2 3 4 5 27 9 3 17 5 0 13 40 33 0 14 15 0 9 8 1 1 32 48 3 8 3 1 12 2 2 3 14 10 1 2 2 1 1 1 1 0 2 3 0 6 1 0 2 0 0 0 10 1 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 2 0 4 4 10 4 4 3 1 0 7 14 8 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 5 14 6 1 9 4 0 14 36 39 34 127 81 21 90 48 16 63 246 223 GRAND TOTALS: 676 456 152 510 323 81 201 1,175 847 357 Piney Point........Monday: November 5, December 3 Algonac............................Friday: November 9, December 7 Baltimore.....................Thursday: November 8, December 6 Guam.......................Thursday: November 22, December 20 Honolulu.......................Friday: November 16, December 14 Houston......*Tuesday:November13, Monday: December 10 Jacksonville...............Thursday: November 8 , December 6 Joliet.........................Thursday: November 15, December 13 Mobile..................Wednesday: November 14, December 12 New Orleans..................Tuesday: November 13, December 11 New York.....................Tuesday: November 6, December 4 Norfolk........................Thursday: November 8, December 6 Oakland....................Thursday: November 15, December 13 Philadelphia...........Wednesday: November 7, December 5 Port Everglades........Thursday: November 15, December 13 San Juan.....................Thursday: November 8, December 6 St. Louis.......................Friday: November 16, December 14 Tacoma.........................Friday: November 23, December 21 Wilmington..................Monday: November 19, December 17 * Houston change created by Veterans Day holiday. Each port’s meeting starts at 10:30 a.m. Attention: Seafarers Another New Ship! SPAD Works For You! Contribute To The Seafarers Political Activities Donation SPAD October 2012 11768_LOG.indd 19 Total Shipped All Groups Trip A B C Reliefs Registered on Beach All Groups A B C Seafarers LOG 19 9/28/2012 11:54:39 AM �Inquiring Seafarer Seafarers International Union Directory Michael Sacco, President Augustin Tellez, Executive Vice President David Heindel, Secretary-Treasurer George Tricker, Vice President Contracts Tom Orzechowski, Vice President Lakes and Inland Waters Dean Corgey, Vice President Gulf Coast Nicholas J. Marrone, Vice President West Coast Joseph T. Soresi, Vice President Atlantic Coast Kermett Mangram, Vice President Government Services HEADQUARTERS 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746 (301) 899-0675 ALGONAC 520 St. Clair River Dr., Algonac, MI 48001 (810) 794-4988 ANCHORAGE 721 Sesame St., #1C, Anchorage, AK 99503 (907) 561-4988 BALTIMORE 2315 Essex St., Baltimore, MD 21224 (410) 327-4900 GUAM P.O. Box 3328, Hagatna, Guam 96932 Cliffline Office Ctr. Bldg., Suite 103B 422 West O’Brien Dr., Hagatna, Guam 96910 (671) 477-1350 HONOLULU 606 Kalihi St., Honolulu, HI 96819 (808) 845-5222 HOUSTON 1221 Pierce St., Houston, TX 77002 (713) 659-5152 JACKSONVILLE 5100 Belfort Rd., Jacksonville, FL 32256 (904) 281-2622 JOLIET 10 East Clinton St., Joliet, IL 60432 (815) 723-8002 Editor’s note: This month’s question was answered by Seafarers who were completing the bosun recertification course in Piney Point, Md. Question: Why did you enter the maritime industry, and why have you stayed with it? Charles Mull Recertified Bosun It was by accident I came into the business. After a short time, I found out I enjoyed the life. Once I got the salt into my blood, I was hooked. I’ve stayed for two reasons, one being this union and all it has done for its members; another being a choice to travel more. it allows me to get my thoughts together and get peace of mind. I enjoy the work! Richard Gathers Recertified Bosun I entered the maritime industry for a better life for me and my family. There’s nothing like making a living at sea. I stayed with it because it’s in my blood. U.S. The love of being at sea and travelling has always been part of my life, especially with the SIU. Our union gave me the opportunity to improve and better myself. The jobs give financial security and a way to support my family and meet our needs, whether it’s putting food on the table or getting the children the education they deserved. Gerry Gianan Recertified Bosun I was a sailor on foreign-flag ships before I immigrated to the Trevorous Ellison Recertified Bosun I started off in the Navy and enjoyed it. The SIU has allowed me to earn a good living and travel to some nice places. When I’m working aboard ship, really can’t ask for anything better than this. The union takes care of its members; the SIU is constantly competing to provide jobs for the members. Timothy Fogg Recertified Bosun I was raised on the water and enjoyed crabbing and fishing – and always wanted to continue enjoying being in the marine environment. I fell in love with it and couldn’t see myself doing anything else. Joshua Mensah Recertified Bosun I like to travel and make good money. I also appreciate the job security and time off. I Pic-From-The-Past MOBILE 1640 Dauphin Island Pkwy, Mobile, AL 36605 (251) 478-0916 NEW ORLEANS 3911 Lapalco Blvd., Harvey, LA 70058 (504) 328-7545 NEW YORK 635 Fourth Ave., Brooklyn, NY 11232 (718) 499-6600 Government Services Division: (718) 499-6600 NORFOLK 115 Third St., Norfolk, VA 23510 (757) 622-1892 OAKLAND 1121 7th St., Oakland, CA 94607 (510) 444-2360 PHILADELPHIA 2604 S. 4 St., Philadelphia, PA 19148 (215) 336-3818 PINEY POINT P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674 (301) 994-0010 PORT EVERGLADES 1221 S. Andrews Ave., Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33316 (954) 522-7984 SANTURCE 1057 Fernandez Juncos Ave., Stop 16 Santurce, PR 00907 (787) 721-4033 ST. LOUIS/ALTON 4581 Gravois Ave., St. Louis, MO 63116 (314) 752-6500 TACOMA 3411 South Union Ave., Tacoma, WA 98409 (253) 272-7774 WILMINGTON 510 N. Broad Ave., Wilmington, CA 90744 (310) 549-4000 Pictured aboard the cruise ship SS Constitution in December 1983 are (from left) vessel Master Harry T.Y. Wu, SIU SecretaryTreasurer Joe DiGiorgio, Executive VP Ed Turner, Executive Chef Otto Gill, Hotel Manager Sam Nazario and SIU VP West Coast George McCartney. If anyone has a vintage union-related photograph he or she would like to share with other Seafarers LOG readers, please send it to the Seafarers LOG, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. Photographs will be returned, if so requested. High-resolution digital images may be sent to webmaster@seafarers.org 20 Seafarers LOG 11768_LOG_X.indd 20 October 2012 9/28/2012 7:24:39 PM �Welcome Ashore Each month, the Seafarers LOG pays tribute to the SIU members who have devoted their working lives to sailing aboard U.S.-flag vessels on the deep seas, inland waterways or Great Lakes. Listed below are brief biographical sketches of those members who recently retired from the union. The brothers and sisters of the SIU thank those members for a job well done and wish them happiness and good health in the days ahead. DEEP SEA ROBERT ARANA Brother Robert Arana, 64, signed on with the Seafarers in 1972. A member of the steward department, he upgraded on numerous occasions at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. Brother Arana initially worked on the Philadelphia. His most recent trip was aboard the Cyprine. Brother Arana calls Orlando, Fla., home. STEVEN BARROWS Brother Steven Barrows, 65, joined the SIU in 2001 as the NMU merged into the Seafarers International Union. The engine department member’s most recent trip was aboard USNS Pililau. Brother Barrows attended classes on two occasions at the union-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. He lives in Massachusetts. MICHAEL BIGLEY shipping with the union in 1994 from the port of New Orleans. She was born in Lebeau, La. Sister Jaudon worked in both the steward and deck departments. She enhanced her skills on three occasions at the SIU-affiliated school in Maryland. Sister Jaudon last sailed aboard the Delaware Trader. She calls New Orleans home. EMIL MEIER Brother Emil Meier, 64, signed on with the SIU in 1972. He originally sailed aboard the Penn Challenger. Brother Meier was a member of the deck department. His most recent voyage was aboard the Midnight Sun. Brother Meier was born in Detroit and now makes his home in Grants Pass, Ore. JAN SCHMIDT Brother Michael Bigley, 65, donned the SIU colors in 1968. His first voyage was aboard the Ft. Hoskins; his most recent was on the Ranger. Brother Bigley was a member of the engine department. He makes his home in Deal Island, Md. Brother Jan Schmidt, 66, joined the SIU in 2001 as the NMU merged into the Seafarers International Union. He was born in Poland and worked in the deck department. Brother Schmidt was last employed on the Charleston Express. He lives in Hollywood, Fla. JOHN GIBBONS LORENZO TIFRE Brother John Gibbons, 69, was born in Brooklyn, N.Y. He became a Seafarer in 1962, originally shipping aboard an AH Bull Steamship Company vessel. Brother Gibbons took advantage of educational opportunities at the Piney Point school. He sailed as a member of the steward department. Brother Gibbons most recently worked on the Chemical Pioneer. He settled in San Antonio, Texas. Brother Lorenzo Tifre, 65, became a union member in 1993 while in the port of New York. The deck department member was born in Honduras. Brother Tifre’s first ship was the ITB Jacksonville; his most recent was the Maersk Georgia. He upgraded in 1997 and 2001 at the union-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. Brother Tifre settled in Brooklyn, N.Y. ROGER GRISWOLD Brother Roger Griswold, 55, began sailing with the union in 1980. He first worked aboard TYCO’s Long Lines. Brother Griswold sailed in the steward department. He upgraded often at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Griswold’s final trip was on the Horizon Trader. He is a resident of Weare, N.H. GLORIA JAUDON Sister Gloria Jaudon, 66, started October 2012 11768_LOG.indd 21 INLAND RANDY BEACHAM Brother Randy Beacham, 55, began his SIU career in 1978, initially shipping aboard a Hvide Marine vessel. The deck department member was born in Virginia. Brother Beacham enhanced his skills on three occasions at the maritime training center in Piney Point, Md. His most recent trip was on a Great Lakes Dredge & Dock vessel. Brother Beacham calls Norfolk, Va., home. DAVID FLADER Brother David Flader, 56, started sailing with the union in 1976 in Norfolk, Va. A member of the deck department, he upgraded often at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Flader originally worked on a Virginia Pilot Corporation vessel. His most recent trip was with Allied Towing. Brother Flader makes his home in Beaufort, N.C. GEORGE O’NEAL training center in Piney Point, Md. His most recent trip was on the Northerly Island. Brother Richardson sailed in the engine department and calls Grandy, N.C., home. employed with Crowley Liner Service. Brother Williams is a resident of Pennsauken, N.J. PAUL STANFORD GEORGE DANKS Brother Paul Stanford, 55, joined the union in 1977. His earliest trip to sea was on the Producer. Brother Sanford was a deck department member. He upgraded frequently at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Stanford’s most recent vessel was operated by Crowley Towing & Transportation of Jacksonville. He lives in Atlantic Beach, Fla. Brother George Danks, 65, signed on with the SIU in 1971. He first sailed with Michigan Interstate Railway. Brother Danks was a member of the deck department. Prior to his retirement, he sailed on the Presque Isle. Brother Danks makes his home in Manistee, Mich. Brother George O’Neal, 68, donned the SIU colors in 2002. He sailed mainly with Express Marine. Brother O’Neal was a member of the steward and deck departments. In 2005 and 2008, he attended classes at the Piney Point school. Brother O’Neal is a resident of Bayboro, N.C. PAUL WHILDEN CARLTON RICHARDSON CECIL WILLIAMS Brother Carlton Richardson, 55, became a Seafarer in 1979. His earliest trip was with G&H Towing. On numerous occasions Brother Richardson enhanced his skills at the maritime Brother Paul Whilden, 64, signed on with the SIU in 1972. He primarily sailed aboard vessels operated by Interstate Oil Transportion Company. Brother Whilden resides in Ft. McCoy, Fla. Brother Cecil Williams, 57, began shipping with the union in 1980. He initially sailed on the Atlantic. Brother Williams worked in the engine department and upgraded often. He was last GREAT LAKES PHILLIP PIPER Brother Phillip Piper, 59, became a union member in 1973. The deck department and Michigan native member initially worked with American Steamship Company. In 2010, he upgraded at the SIU-affiliated school in Maryland. His most recent ship was the Alpena. Brother Piper calls Presque Isle, Mich., home. This Month In SIU History Editor’s note: The following items are reprinted from previous editions of the Seafarers LOG. sudden disappearance of the vessel’s running lights and sped to the disaster area. 1949 For the second time this year the SIU Atlantic and Gulf District has successfully campaigned to protect the employment of American seamen and ships in transporting foreign aid cargoes. Last week, Congress passed the arms aid bill, including the amendment pushed by the SIU which guarantees that 50 percent of military supplies shipped to non-communist nations will go on American vessels, manned by American seamen. Earlier this year, the battle waged by the SIU and other maritime organizations resulted in the passage of a law requiring ECA Administrator Paul Hoffman to send at least 50 percent of Marshall Plan goods on American-flag ships. The A&G District touched off its fight in favor of the use of American ships when Secretary-Treasurer Paul Hall informed members of Congress that the “critical condition of the United States merchant marine” made the guarantee imperative. 1978 More than 300 delegates to the Seafarers International Union of North America’s 1978 Triennial Convention convened on the nation’s capital on Oct. 16 to review the progress over the last three years and to map out legislative, political and organizing strategies for the future. SIUNA President Paul Hall, convention chairman, told the representatives of the SIUNA-affiliated unions in the opening day session that the Convention’s goal is to develop a policy which will counter the growing presence of the Soviet fleet in ocean commerce. “Russian-flag vessels are daily increasing their penetration of U.S. shipping,” Hall warned. “The time has come when positive steps must be taken to assure the United States of a viable commercial ocean fleet available to this nation in peace as well as in a national emergency.” 1951 Six Seafarers, who term their rescue “miraculous,” are the only survivors of the ill-fated Southern Isles which broke in half and sank on Oct. 5th, 200 miles southeast of Cape Hatteras with the loss of 17 men. The converted 3,325-ton LST, bound from Puerto Rico to Chester, Pa., loaded with 4,000 long tons of iron ore, sank in less than five minutes in heavy seas and swirling winds resulting from a two-day hurricane blowing off the coast. Lost were the ship’s eight officers, the radio operator and eight of the unlicensed crew. The sinking came with such suddenness that no SOS was sent out. The swift rescue of the survivors came about only because the SS Charlotte Lykes, following the ship a few miles back, noticed the 1985 The battleground was the floor of the House of Representatives. The weapon was the house version of the 1985 Farm Bill. The stakes were cargo preference. And when the debris of the hours-long debate was finally cleared, the anti-cargo preference amendments were defeated. The result means Seafarers can count on their rightful share of government-impelled cargo and the jobs and job security that goes along with it. The floor fight over the cargo preference issues was the culmination of a year-long effort by anti-maritime, agribusiness interests to strip the U.S. merchant marine of a vital asset: government support programs left to the U.S. merchant fleet. But a concentrated educational and lobbying effort led by the SIU during the past several months stopped the anti-merchant marine forces dead in the water. Seafarers LOG 21 9/28/2012 12:11:35 PM �Final Departures DEEP SEA WILSON GARCIA Pensioner Wilson Garcia, 71, passed away Feb. 4. Brother Garcia became an SIU member in 1969. He was born in Puerto Rico and sailed in all three departments. Brother Garcia initially worked on the Geneva. His final trip was aboard the Mayaguez. Brother Garcia retired in 2006 and called Penuelas, P.R., home. DAVID KALM Brother David Kalm, 62, died Jan. 22. He was born in Maryland. The deck department member joined the union in 1980. Brother Kalm first sailed on the Inger. He most recently shipped aboard the USNS Antares. Brother Kalm made his home in Baltimore. MOSES SHAIBI Brother Moses Shaibi, 57, passed away Feb. 17. He signed on with the union in 1994 while in Wilmington, Calif. Brother Shaibi’s earliest trip to sea was on the Independence. His final ship was the Green Point. Brother Shaibi, a member of the deck department, lived in Tacoma, Wash. FRANK SIRIGNANO Pensioner Frank Sirignano, 89, died Feb. 19. Brother Sirignano began sailing with the SIU in 1968. His first ship was the Sacal Borincahl; his last was the Carolina. Brother Sirignano was a New York native and a member of the steward department. He went on pension in 1993 and settled in Jacksonville, Fla. LAWRENCE STOGNER Pensioner Lawrence Stogner, 84, passed away Feb. 24. Brother Stogner first donned the SIU colors in 1978. He initially sailed aboard the Santa Mariana. Brother Stogner’s final trip was on the Developer. The deck department member started collecting his retirement compen- 22 Seafarers LOG 11768_LOG.indd 22 sation in 1994. Brother Stogner was a resident of Lacey, Wash. KADATEMA YAGUE Brother Kadatema Yague, 56, died Jan. 3. He became a Seafarer in 2000 in Philadelphia. Brother Yague originally shipped with Moran Towing of Philadelphia. He sailed in the deck department. Brother Yague last worked aboard the USNS Fisher. He resided in Pennsylvania. INLAND KENNETH VAUGHN Pensioner Kenneth Vaughn, 71, passed away Feb. 1. Brother Vaughn started sailing with the SIU in 1973. A member of the engine department, he first shipped with Norfolk Baltimore. Brother Vaughn was an Alabama native. His final trip was with Allied Towing. Brother Vaughn went on pension in 2002 and called Norfolk, Va., home. ALBEN WASH Pensioner Alben Wash, 74, died Feb. 21. Brother Wash signed on with the union in 1980 while in New Orleans. He was primarily employed with Delta Queen Steamboat Company as a steward department member. Brother Wash retired in 2005 and lived in Opelousas, La. GREAT LAKES RAYMOND KAGE Pensioner Raymond Kage, 92, died March 28. Brother Kage joined the SIU ranks in 1953. He was employed by Michigan Interstate Railway. Brother Kage was born in Petoskey, Mich. He shipped in the deck department. Brother Kage became a pensioner in 1984 and settled in Beulah, Mich. ROLAND LINDEMUTH Pensioner Roland Lindemuth, 65, passed away March 29. Brother Lindemuth was born in Michigan. He began sailing with the union in 1978. Brother Lindemuth’s first trip was with Michigan Interstate Railway. The deck department member’s last vessel was the Alpena. Brother Lindemuth started receiving his retirement compensation in 2007. He lived in Maple River Township, Mich. Editor’s note: The following brothers and sister, all former members of the National Maritime Union (NMU), have passed away. JOSEPH ANGELSON Pensioner Joseph Angelson, 91, died March 7. Brother Angelson was born in Chester, Pa. He went on pension in 1972. Brother Angelson made his home in St. Petersburg, Fla. CODY BANKS Pensioner Cody Banks, 79, passed away March 29. Brother Banks, a native of Honduras, started collecting his retirement compensation in 1986. He lived in New Orleans. JAMES COPELAND Pensioner James Copeland, 86, died April 8. Born in Albany, Ga., Brother Copeland became a pensioner in 1972. He called Bronx, N.Y., home. ROQUE DEL VALLE Pensioner Roque Del Valle, 90, passed away April 20. Brother Del Valle was born in Humacao, P.R. He retired in 1970 and continued to reside in Puerto Rico. ROBERT FENNEY Pensioner Robert Fenney, 81, died March 30. Brother Fenney was a Virginia native. He began receiving his pension in 1987. Brother Fenney was a resident of Suffolk, Va. R.I., Brother Gomes started receiving his retirement compensation in 1974. He lived in Providence, R.I. PETER GOMEZ Pensioner Peter Gomez, 85, passed away April 4. Brother Gomez was born in Canton, Ohio. He retired in 1967 and settled in St. James, N.Y. MOSES HALLFORD Pensioner Moses Hallford, 86, died Feb. 29. Brother Hallford was an Alabama native. He became a pensioner in 1981 and called Andalusia, Ala., home. AUDREY HARDY Pensioner Audrey Hardy, 103, passed away March 31. Sister Hardy, a native of Columbus, Ohio, began collecting her pension in 1970. She continued to reside in Ohio. JAMES HENDERSON Pensioner James Henderson, 88, died April 3. Born in Baton Rouge, La., Brother Henderson went on pension in 1990. He lived in Louisiana. FREDERICK HOLOMON Pensioner Frederick Holomon, 87, passed away March 22. Brother Holomon was a Galveston, Texas, native. He started receiving his retirement pay in 1986. Brother Holomon continued to make his home in Texas. ROY JENKINS Pensioner Roy Jenkins, 79, died April 4. Brother Jenkins was born in Virginia. He retired in 1990 and was a resident of Norfolk, Va. JESSIE JORDAN Pensioner Jessie Jordan, 88, passed away March 23. Brother Jordan, an Arkansas native, became a pensioner in 1973. He settled in Norfolk, Va. ANTHONY FERREIRA Pensioner Anthony Ferreira, 87, passed away March 14. Brother Ferreire, a native of Falmouth, Mass., went on pension in 1969. He continued to make his home in Massachusetts. JOHN LANKFORD Pensioner John Lankford, 83, died April 18. The Georgiaborn mariner went on pension in 1994. Brother Lankford called Tampa, Fla., home. GEORGE GOMES Pensioner George Gomes, 90, died March 29. Born in Lincoln, JOHN LAVADO Pensioner John Lavado, 88, passed away April 22. Brother Lavado was born in Portugal. He began collecting compensation for his retirement in 1978. Brother Lavado made his home in Waterbury, Conn. JESSIE LITTLE Pensioner Jessie Little, 91, died March 17. Born in Woodmills, N.C., Brother Little started receiving his pension in 1969. He lived in Manhattan. GEORGE MARTIN Pensioner George Martin, 93, passed away March 21. Brother Martin was a native of Panama. He retired in 1981 and resided in Brooklyn, N.Y. RAMON MARQUEZ Pensioner Ramon Marquez, 83, died March 23. Brother Marquez was born in Ponce, P.R. He became a pensioner in 1987. Brother Marquez continued to call Puerto Pico home. JOSE MARROQUIN Pensioner Jose Marroquin, 77, passed away April 16. Brother Marroquin, a native of Mexico, went on pension in 2002. He settled in Tomball, Texas. WILLIAM MORRISON Pensioner William Morrison, 88, died March 7. Brother Morrison was a native of Houston. He began receiving his retirement pay in 1986. Brother Morrison was a resident of Texas. JOHN SIEMION Pensioner John Siemion, 90, passed away March 14. Brother Siemion was born in Wisconsin. He retired in 1972 and made his home in McComb, Miss. RICHARD STEWART Pensioner Richard Stewart, 80, died March 15. Brother Stewart was born in Forsyth, N.C. He became a pensioner in 2003 and called North Carolina home. AHMED THABIT Pensioner Ahmed Thabit, 80, passed away April 1. Brother Thabit was a native of Yemen. He started collecting his pension in 1999. Brother Thabit resided in Baltimore. ARMANDO VELEZ Pensioner Armando Velez, 87, died March 17. The Puerto Rico-born mariner went on pension in 1987. He made his home in Middle Village, N.Y. October 2012 9/28/2012 11:54:48 AM �Digest of Shipboard Union Meetings HORIZON RELIANCE (Horizon Lines), July 15 – Chairman Kissinfor Taylor, Secretary Joseph Laureta, Educational Director David Watkins, Deck Delegate Rene Rafer, Engine Delegate Allen Newgen, Steward Delegate Jose Constantino. Chairman announced upcoming payoff at sea. Secretary reminded everyone to keep lounge clean and keep laundry room supplied. Educational director encouraged fellow members to upgrade at Piney Point and also update documents in timely fashion – don’t wait until the last minute. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew thanked galley gang for job well done. Crew reported recent rescue of elderly man in sailboat in the Pacific (a story that was reported in the July LOG). Next port: Los Angeles. USNS DEWAYNE WILLIAMS (Maersk Line, Limited), July 30 – Chairman Dominic Brunamonti, Secretary Dorray Saberon, Deck Delegate Claude Gordon, Engine Delegate Warren Wright, Steward Delegate Harlan Alonzo. Crew discussed previous shipboard meeting and also said everyone did a good job during recent security exercise with Military Sealift Command. Chairman urged fellow mariners to keep all documents and training requirements current, which makes it faster and easier to obtain a job. He reminded everyone not to smoke in rec room or passageways. Vote of thanks given to steward department for Fourth of July barbeque and pig roast. Secretary said ship had not received most recent issue of the LOG, and she also mentioned that editions are available online. Crew was encouraged to read president’s report in each issue. Educational director urged everyone to upgrade at union-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. No beefs or disputed OT reported, but department delegates noted manpower concerns. Next port: Guam. YORKTOWN EXPRESS (Crowley), July 22 – Chairman Samuel Uyatede, Secretary Norman Jackson, Educational Director Niles Jacobsen, Deck Delegate Mario Batiz, Engine Delegate Jerome Dooms. Crew requested satellite TV or WiFi for crew computers. Chairman reminded everyone to keep all paperwork and shipping documents up-todate: clinic card, medical forms, TWIC, passport, etc. Secretary asked crew to let chief steward know about any missing items, and also to learn and use the chain of command. Educational director reminded fellow members about importance of upgrading at Paul Hall Center in Piney Point. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew asked about contract coverage for this particular ship and also asked for increase in pension benefits. Mariners departing the ship were reminded to leave rooms clean for new arrivals. Special thanks given to steward department for job well done. ALASKAN LEGEND (Alaska Tanker Company), August 2 – Chairman Anton Sulic, Secretary Matthew Carroll, Educational Director Jerry Cepeda, Deck Delegate Woodrow Brown, Steward Delegate Johnson Ashun. Chairman noted new contracts are October 2012 11768_LOG.indd 23 The Seafarers LOG attempts to print as many digests of union shipboard minutes as possible. On occasion, because of space limitations, some will be omitted. Ships’ minutes first are reviewed by the union’s contract department. Those issues requiring attention or resolution are addressed by the union upon receipt of the ships’ minutes. The minutes are then forwarded to the Seafarers LOG for publication. Cookout Aboard Maersk Wyoming Vessel master Capt. Bill Dutour emailed these recent photos of mariners enjoying a cookout aboard the Maersk Wyoming. Among the SIU members pictured are AB Roy Payne, Recertified Steward Andy Hagan, AB Ernie Frank, AB Emilio Abreu, QE4 Francisco Ramilo and QEE Joe Grandinetti. in effect, and reminded mariners to keep documents up-to-date. He also urged all Seafarers to upgrade: “Always better yourself.” Secretary asked for clarification on BST renewals. He encouraged everyone to work together and reminded them to separate all trash. Educational director also encouraged members to upgrade at Piney Point. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Deck delegate inquired about ABs being able to do bosun relief jobs. Engine delegate said bilge-strainer cleaning changed to Sunday. Crew requested lower deductions for prescriptions. Crew thanked steward department “for great work and all the fresh baked goods. Great meals truly appreciated by the crew.” Next port: Long Beach, Calif. BUFFALO (American Steamship), August 14 – Chairman Tim Koebel, Secretary Walter Wise, Educational Director Yaser Mohamed, Deck Delegate Kassim Ghaleb, Engine Delegate Lamar Pinckney, Steward Delegate Mohamed Noman. Agreement to call out second DEU to handle cables while shifting at the Cleveland bulk terminal not being honored. Will discuss with captain and mate. Chairman reviewed all gear needed to sail in Great Lakes winter. He touched on common courtesies that should be shown to fellow mariners. No beefs or disputed OT reported by department delegates. President Mike Sacco’s report from the July LOG was read. Crew suggested increasing port agent compensation. Crew also requested that company supply winter gear displayed earlier by bosun. Appreciation expressed to SA Noman for fine work ethic and upbeat attitude. Bosun also credited departing AB Ghaleb for outstanding job. Next port: Waukegan, Ill. CHAMPION (Maersk Line, Limited), August 18 – Secretary Grady Ingram, Educational Director David James, Deck Delegate King Scott, Engine Delegate Harry Kinsman, Steward Delegate Jose David. Secretary encouraged members to stay informed about Coast Guard medical requirements, and also to check shipping credentials for expiration dates. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Ship’s winch needs repairs. Crew suggested increasing pension benefits and lowering sea-time requirements for retirement. Also asked for increased Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan scholarships and additional Paul Hall Center courses that count for college credits. Among other requests, crew asked for stateroom portable refrigerators, WiFi routers, satellite TV, satellite radio and water fountains on crew’s decks. Next port: Newark, N.J. CHARGER (Maersk Line, Limited), August 11 – Chairman Robert Pagan, Secretary Alan Hollinger, Educational Director Matthew Ditullio, Deck Delegate Cameron Mitchell, Engine Delegate George W. Washington, Steward Delegate Bridget Burkhalter. Chairman announced payoff set for Los Angeles. He made a number of routine announcements and also thanked steward department for job well done. Secretary reminded everyone to clean cabins prior to departure and leave room keys. He thanked fellow mariners for helping steward department keep all public spaces clean and tidy. He also urged everyone to keep documents and endorsements current, and don’t fall behind on dues. He discussed new “extended expiration date” TWIC that’s good for three years. He thanked crew for support of United Seamen’s Service and the Jay Corcoran Memorial Scholarship Foundation: “I sailed with Jay several times in the 1990s on the President Adams. He was a good guy all around.” Educational director encouraged everyone to upgrade at Piney Point. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew discussed problem with crew laundry being locked in Asian loop. Next port: Los Angeles. MAERSK MISSOURI (Maersk Line, Limited), August 12 – Chairman Ion Irimia, Secretary Glenn Bamman, Educational Director Andre Carriere, Deck Delegate Abdalla Gaafar, Engine Delegate James Sieger, Steward Delegate Brian McEleney. Chairman reported good voyage and good crew. Educational director encouraged members to upgrade their skills at the union-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. No beefs or disputed OT reported, but member of engine department noted a practice involving plugging and unplugging refrigeration containers during cargo ops that conflicts with standard freightship agreement language about jurisdiction. Vote of thanks given to steward department for job well done. Next ports: Newark, N.J., Charleston, S.C. and Norfolk, Va. GLOBAL SENTINEL (Transoceanic Cable Ship Co.), August 6 – Chairman Lee Hardman, Secretary Vicki Haggerty, Educational Director Lothar Wick, Deck Delegate Russell Hayden, Engine Delegate Johnny Carson. Chairman reported one-month contract extension. He encouraged everyone to keep documents up-to-date. Educational director urged members to upgrade at Paul Hall Center. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Steward department thanked everyone for helping with getting stores on board and thanked deck department for mopping decks after vessel layup. Bosun thanked galley gang for good food. Next port: Portland, Ore. OCEAN ATLAS (Crowley), August 8 – Chairman Donald Ackerman, Secretary Richard Jones, Educational Director Lawrence Craft, Deck Delegate Kevin Montiero, Steward Delegate Rashaad Mangram. Chairman thanked steward department for great meals, and also thanked entire crew for excellent job and safe voyage. Educational director encouraged members to upgrade at Paul Hall Center. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew noted importance of reading Seafarers LOG. Crew suggested increasing pension benefits and also asked for clarification on relief in foreign ports as well as clarification on compensation for tending lines. Next port: Houston. Seafarers LOG 23 9/28/2012 11:54:51 AM �Extended Expiration TWIC Available First Segment of Expiration Dates Has Started SIU members are reminded to check the expiration dates on their federally issued Transportation Worker Identification Credentials (TWIC), especially now that the first documents issued back in 2007 have begun expiring. Mariners weren’t required to secure TWICs until April 2009, but the cards were available beginning in October 2007. Hence, any of the TWICs issued at that time with a five-year expiration date are due for renewal. Meanwhile, as previously reported, the Transportation Security Administration recently began offering certain TWIC holders the option of replacing their expiring TWICs with a three-year Extended Expi- ration Date (EED) TWIC. That credential will cost $60 and may be obtained via a single trip to an enrollment center. Detailed information about the threeyear credential was published in recent issues of the LOG (including page 4 of the August edition) and is available at www.seafarers.org in a June 15 post in the “News” section. Information is available directly from the TSA at 1-866-347-8942, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. Eastern, and at www.tsa.gov/twic. When the agency announced the EED TWIC, the policy bulletin read in part: “Effective August 30, 2012, TWIC holders who are U.S. citizens or U.S. nationals, and whose TWICs will expire on or before December 31, 2014, have two options to renew their TWIC. They may either replace their expiring TWIC with a 3-year Extended Expiration Date (EED) TWIC or obtain a standard 5-year replacement. All TWIC holders should begin the application process at least 30 days before his or her TWIC expires. “The EED TWIC is a one-time temporary extension option intended to provide convenience and cost-savings to workers pending the deployment of TWIC readers. TWIC holders who are not U.S. citizens or U.S. nationals are required to enroll for a standard 5-year replacement upon expiration of their current TWIC.” Mariners Return Home After Humanitarian Mission A humanitarian mission that spanned more than four months and 20,000 miles came to an end in September for 70 civil service mariners and approximately 400 Navy, Army and non-governmental organization (NGO) personnel aboard the Seafarers-crewed Military Sealift Command hospital ship USNS Mercy. The crew, including members of the SIU Government Services Division, traveled nearly the distance of the equator. Medical personnel treated almost 50,000 people in countries including Indonesia, the Philippines, Vietnam and Cambodia before returning to San Diego Sept. 14. The Mercy served as the lead vessel for Pacific Partnership 2012 (PP12), a fivemonth humanitarian and civic assistance mission designed to provide medical treatment for thousands of people in multiple countries. One of two U.S. Navy hospital ships, the 894-foot Mercy is operated by the U.S. Navy’s Military Sealift Command. Mariners operated small boats to transport patients and personnel between the ship and shore due to the vessel’s large size. “My most profound memory was watching six surgeries – all of which were performed in a 30-minute timeframe while we were anchored off the Philippines,” said Capt. Jonathan Olmsted, who had overall responsibility for the Mercy’s movement and the safety of its passengers. “We saw four children and two adults receive lifechanging procedures including cataract transplants, tumor removals, and other corrective surgery. That’s when it really hit me why PP12 is so important.” Pacific Partnership 2012 is a U.S. Pacific Fleet mission led by three different element commanders: Olmsted, who serves as the Mercy’s civil service master; Navy Capt. James Morgan, commander for the overall Pacific Partnership mission; and Navy Capt. Timothy Hinman, commander of the medical treatment facility responsible for providing care aboard the Mercy and ashore. Doctors and nurses from the ship’s U.S. Navy Bureau of Medicine and Surgeryled medical treatment facility worked with medical professionals from various governmental agencies, non-governmental organizations and the host nations to provide medical care, including immunizations, general and specialty surgeries, dental care and vision services. At the invitation of the host nations, PP12 brought the expertise of U.S. service members and personnel from 13 partner nation militaries and 28 NGOs to build and strengthen relationships and work together to learn how to better collectively respond to natural disasters and crisis. In addition, the Mercy team logged many hours during 62 subject-matter expert exchanges in the four countries visited on topics including first aid, nursing, cardiology, orthopedics, nutrition, disaster response, water and food safety, and public health promotion. U.S., Australian and host-nation engineers also built or refurbished 13 buildings, and the crew collectively participated in more than 100 community service projects to include the delivery of 244 pallets (more than 144,000 pounds) of donated supplies requested by host nations. Supply Utilityman Carmelita Kawasaki said she saw the mission’s success reflected in the reactions of those who were helped. Kawasaki noticed this especially while volunteering her sleep hours to work at a public elementary school in Indonesia. “You can feel the gratitude and happiness in their hearts, and sense that we are very welcome in their place,” she said. Engine Utilityman Darlene Mertz, who works in the Mercy’s vast engineering spaces, cites a memory from Vietnam as her favorite from the trip. “I was walking down a ship’s passageway after a long and hot eight-hour watch in the engine room when I ran into a group of patients,” Mertz said. “An elderly woman stopped me and asked, via her translator, what I do on the ship. I told her I work in the engine room keeping the boilers on so we have steam for the ship’s propulsion and power for the hospital. She looked at me and said, ‘Thank you for being here.’” Unions Receive Due Credit For Building America’s Middle Class The cause of working people was promoted by leaders throughout the United States Sept. 3 as the country celebrated the Labor Day holiday. Speaking to a crowd in Toledo, Ohio, President Barack Obama praised the labor movement, adding that 40-hour work weeks, paid leave, pensions and minimum wage would likely not exist without the dedication of union members. “It’s working people like you who helped lay the cornerstones of middle-class security, things that people now sometimes take for granted, but weren’t always there,” Obama said. “It is unions like yours that helped forge the basic bargain of this country – the bargain that built the greatest middle class and the most prosperous country and the most prosperous economy the world has ever known.” AFL-CIO President Richard Trumka, who shared the stage with Obama at the event, said Labor Day, for him, was all about unity. “Every single one of us lends a hand. Our work binds us together,” Trumka said. “We’re building a movement to honor every day – a movement for dignity and decent pay, for good benefits, for secure retirement.” Labor Secretary Hilda Solis also joined in on the Labor Day observances, posting an online video message in which she described the holiday as symbolizing the pursuit of new opportunities and a better life. “I’m inspired by job-seekers from all walks of life in this country going back to school and upgrading their skills to match the demands of a 21st century global economy,” she said. “I’m impressed by communities coming together and new partnerships being formed among employers, labor unions and community colleges.” U.S. Sen. Ben. Cardin (D-Md.) used his Labor Day message to remind Americans there have been many great strides in the time since the holiday was created. “It is important to remember it’s more than just a day of parades and speeches. It’s also a day where we remember and honor all that American workers have done for our nation” he said. “From the abolishment of sweatshops in which women worked 16-17-hour days for $1 to $2 a week, to the end of child labor, to the establishment of minimum wage and safety standards, the American labor movement helped to ensure a better life for American workers.” Signed into law as a national holiday by President Grover Cleveland in 1894, Labor Day has remained a rallying cry for the labor movement ever since. Know Your Rights FINANCIAL REPORTS. The Constitution of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU makes specific provision for safeguarding the membership’s money and union finances. The constitution requires a detailed audit by certified public accountants every year, which is to be submitted to the membership by the secretary-treasurer. A yearly finance committee of rank-and-file members, elected by the membership, each year examines the finances of the union and reports fully their findings and recommendations. Members of this committee may make dissenting reports, specific recommendations and separate findings. TRUST FUNDS. All trust funds of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU are administered in accordance with the provisions of various trust fund agreements. All these agreements specify that the trustees in charge of these funds shall equally consist of union and management representatives and their alternates. All expenditures and disbursements of trust funds are made only upon approval by a majority of the trustees. All trust fund financial records are available at the headquarters of the various trust funds. SHIPPING RIGHTS. A member’s shipping rights and seniority are protected exclusively by contracts between the union and the employers. Members should get to know their shipping rights. Copies of these contracts are posted and available in all union halls. If members believe there have been violations of their shipping or seniority rights as contained in the contracts between the union and the employers, they should notify the Seafarers Appeals Board by certified mail, return receipt requested. The 24 Seafarers LOG 11768_LOG.indd 24 proper address for this is: Augustin Tellez, Chairman Seafarers Appeals Board 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 Full copies of contracts as referred to are available to members at all times, either by writing directly to the union or to the Seafarers Appeals Board. CONTRACTS. Copies of all SIU contracts are available in all SIU halls. These contracts specify the wages and conditions under which an SIU member works and lives aboard a ship or boat. Members should know their contract rights, as well as their obligations, such as filing for overtime (OT) on the proper sheets and in the proper manner. If, at any time, a member believes that an SIU patrolman or other union official fails to protect their contractual rights properly, he or she should contact the nearest SIU port agent. EDITORIAL POLICY — THE SEAFARERS LOG. The Seafarers LOG traditionally has refrained from publishing any article serving the political purposes of any individual in the union, officer or member. It also has refrained from publishing articles deemed harmful to the union or its collective membership. This established policy has been reaffirmed by membership action at the September 1960 meetings in all constitutional ports. The responsibility for Sea­farers LOG policy is vested in an editorial board which consists of the executive board of the union. The executive board may delegate, from among its ranks, one individual to carry out this responsibility. PAYMENT OF MONIES. No monies are to be paid to anyone in any official capacity in the SIU unless an official union receipt is given for same. Under no circumstances should any member pay any money for any reason unless he is given such receipt. In the event anyone attempts to require any such payment be made without supplying a receipt, or if a member is required to make a payment and is given an official receipt, but feels that he or she should not have been required to make such payment, this should immediately be reported to union headquarters. CONSTITUTIONAL RIGHTS AND OBLIGATIONS. Copies of the SIU Constitution are available in all union halls. All members should obtain copies of this constitution so as to familiarize themselves with its contents. Any time a member feels any other member or officer is attempting to deprive him or her of any constitutional right or obligation by any methods, such as dealing with charges, trials, etc., as well as all other details, the member so affected should immediately notify headquarters. EQUAL RIGHTS. All members are guaranteed equal rights in employment and as members of the SIU. These rights are clearly set forth in the SIU Constitution and in the contracts which the union has negotiated with the employers. Conse­quently, no member may be discriminated against because of race, creed, color, sex, national or geographic origin. If any member feels that he or she is denied the equal rights to which he or she is entitled, the member should notify union headquarters. SEAFARERS POLITICAL ACTIVITY DONATION (SPAD). SPAD is a separate segregated fund. Its proceeds are used to further its objects and purposes including, but not limited to, furthering the political, social and economic interests of maritime workers, the preservation and furthering of the American merchant marine with improved employment opportunities for seamen and boatmen and the advancement of trade union concepts. In connection with such objects, SPAD supports and contributes to political candidates for elective office. All contributions are voluntary. No contribution may be solicited or received because of force, job discrimination, financial reprisal, or threat of such conduct, or as a condition of membership in the union or of employment. If a contribution is made by reason of the above improper conduct, the member should notify the Seafarers International Union or SPAD by certified mail within 30 days of the contribution for investigation and appropriate action and refund, if involuntary. A member should support SPAD to protect and further his or her economic, political and social interests, and American trade union concepts. NOTIFYING THE UNION — If at any time a member feels that any of the above rights have been violated, or that he or she has been denied the constitutional right of access to union records or information, the member should immediately notify SIU President Michael Sacco at headquarters by certified mail, return receipt requested. The address is: Michael Sacco, President Seafarers International Union 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746. October 2012 9/28/2012 11:54:51 AM �Paul Hall Center Upgrading Course Information The following is the schedule of courses at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md., for the next few months. All programs are geared to improving the job skills of Seafarers and to promoting the American maritime industry. Please note that this schedule may change to reflect the needs of the membership, the maritime industry and—in times of conflict—the nation’s security. Students attending any of these classes should check in the Saturday before their course’s start date. The courses listed here will begin promptly on the morning of the start dates. For classes ending on a Friday, departure reservations should be made for Saturday. Seafarers who have any questions regarding the upgrading courses offered at the Paul Hall Center may call the admissions office at (301) 994-0010. Title of Course Title of Start Date of Course Date Completion Government Vessels Deck Department Able Seaman October 13 November 9 ARPA October 27 November 2 ECDIS December 8 December 14 GMDSS November 24 December 7 Lifeboatman/Water Survival October 13 October 26 November 11 November 23 December 8 December 21 Radar Observer October 13 October 26 Radar Renewal (One day) November 6 November 6 Engine Department Basic Auxiliary Plant Operations (BAPO) November 10 December 7 FOWT October 13 November 9 Marine Electrician October 20 December 14 Welding October 20 November 9 November 24 December 14 Steward Department Chief Steward October 13 November 23 Chief Cook These modules start every other week. The next class will begin Tuesday, October 9 because of the Columbus Day holiday. Galley Operations/Advanced Galley Operations These modules start every Monday. The next classes will start Tuesday, October 9 because of the Columbus Day holiday. UPGRADING APPLICATION Name_________________________________________________________________________ Address_______________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________ Telephone (Home)_________________________ (Cell)_________________________ Date of Birth___________________________________________________________________ Deep Sea Member o Lakes Member o Inland Waters Member o If the following information is not filled out completely, your application will not be processed. Social Security #_______________________ Book #__________________________________ Seniority_____________________________ Department_____________________________ Home Port____________________________________________________________________ E-mail_______________________________________________________________________ Endorsement(s) or License(s) now held_____________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________ Are you a graduate of the SHLSS/PHC trainee program? o Yes o No If yes, class #___________________________________________________________________ Have you attended any SHLSS/PHC upgrading courses? o Yes o No If yes, course(s) taken____________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________ With this application, COPIES of the following must be sent: One hundred and twenty-five (125) days seatime for the previous year, one day in the last six months prior to the date your class starts, USMMD (z-card) front and back or relevant pages of merchant mariner credential, front page of your union book indicating your department and seniority, qualifying seatime for the course if it is Coast Guard tested, 1995 STCW Certificate, valid SHBP Clinic Card and TWIC. October 2012 11768_LOG.indd 25 Start Date Date of Compltion Safety Courses Advanced Firefighting October 27 November 2 December 1 December 7 Basic Firefighting/STCW October 13 October 19 November 3 November 9 December 1 December 7 November 24 November 30 Medical Care Provider November 3 November 9 December 8 December 14 Tank PIC Barge December 8 December 14 NMC Website Provides Useful Mariner Resources The National Maritime Center (NMC), the licensing authority for the U.S. Coast Guard, offers a comprehensive website covering mariner credentialing, medical guidelines and much more. The site features a wide range of applications and forms, deck- and engine-department exam information, lists of Coast Guardapproved courses and more. Seafar- ers are encouraged to check out the site at:http://www.uscg.mil/nmc/ Mariners may call the NMC at 1-888-IASKNMC (1-888-427-5662). Operational hours are 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. EST, Monday through Friday. (The NMC is closed for all federal holidays.) Various email forms also are available through the NMC website. Important Notice for Students At SIU-Affiliated Paul Hall Center Students who have registered for classes at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, but later discover - for whatever reason - that they can’t attend, should inform the admissions department immediately so arrangements can be made to have other students take their places. COURSE ____________________________ START DATE _______________ DATE OF COMPLETION _______________________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________________ LAST VESSEL: ___________________________________ Rating: ____________________ Date On: _______________________________ Date Off:____________________________ SIGNATURE ____________________________________ DATE______________________ NOTE: Transportation will be paid in accordance with the scheduling letter only if you present original receipts and successfully complete the course. If you have any questions, contact your port agent before departing for Piney Point. Not all classes are reimbursable.Return completed application to: Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education Admissions Office, P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674-0075; or fax to (301) 994-2189. The Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education is a private, non-profit, equal opportunity institution and admits students, who are otherwise qualified, of any race, nationality or sex. The school complies with applicable laws with regard to admission, access or treatment of students in its programs or activities. 10/12 Seafarers LOG 25 9/28/2012 11:54:52 AM �Paul Hall Center Classes Unlicensed Apprentice Water Survival Class 762 – Eighteen Phase I unlicensed apprentices completed this course Aug. 3. Those graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Jason Baker, Graham Duggins, Nicholas Garcia, Shari Hinton, Omari Holt, Michael Hulse, Richard Lawson, Unis Malahi, Jenny Marcelin, Steven Miller, Travis Moses, Karl Mosley, Jose Panlilio III, Ahmed Sennain, Ethan Sims, Mark Stahovic, Nathan Stamm and Claude Young. Class Instructor Ben Cusic is at the far right. Unlicensed Apprentice Water Survival Class 763 – Fourteen upgraders, Phase III and Phase I unlicensed apprentices graduated from this course Aug. 31. Finishing their requirements (above, in alphabetical order) were: Aristeo Aquino, Sylvestre Bautista, Valerio Bellezze, Tyler Burton, Alvin Cabahit, Christopher Dudley, Mohamed Gazaly, Florante Labtingao, Dion Langley, Craig Nebbia, Musa Salem, Evgeny Umanskiy, Connor Wambach and Edward Wright. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Able Seaman – Twenty-three students graduated from this course Aug. 31. Completing their requirements (above, in alphabetical order) were: Vince Adolph, Cliff Alexis, Christopher Allen, Jerry Aquino, Joherky Concepcion, Ryan Dapello, Michael Dooley, Theophilus Essien, Derek Gomez, Warren Gorman, Cindy Granter, Howard Guilliams, Joel Harris, Keith Marion, Ahmed Mohamed, Clint Omisong, Prateek Poras, Angela Porter, Kyle Silva, Christopher Staley, Javis Stanley, Robert Surette and DeMilton Wheat. Class Instructor Bernabe Pelingon is at the far right. Machinist – The following upgraders (above, in alphabetical order) completed the enhancement of their skills in this course Aug. 17: Aristeo Aquino, Sandra Baker, Carlos Blanco, Juan Castillo, Fontanos Ellison, Bryan Fletcher, Stanley Ricks and Gregory Thomas. Steve Haver, their instructor, is at the far right. GMDSS – Four upgraders finished this course Aug. 24. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Satchel Caffy, James Copeland, Samantha Murphy and Stacy Murphy. Class Instructor Bradford Wheeler is at the far right. Medical Care Provider – Nine Seafarers completed their requirements in this course Aug. 10. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Satchel Caffy, Donny Castillo, James Copeland, Nicholas Kempker, Samatha Murphy, Stacy Murphy, A.T.M. Zahid Reza, Timothy VanWeezel and Erasmo Vizcaino. Their instructor, Mike Roberts, is at the far right. Government Vessels – The following Seafarers (photo at right, in alphabetical order) finished this course Aug. 24: Kevin Blackman, Nathan Elliott, Michael Murphy, Mikhail Pinchevskiy, Kanesha Spence, Gregory Thomas, McKinley Thorne, James Walker, Fernandez Wilcox and Peter Wojcikowski. Class Instructor Tom Truitt is at the far left. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Radar Observer – Two upgraders graduated from this course Aug. 17. Completing their requirements were: Daniel Bradberry (right) and Jermaine McGhee. 26 Seafarers LOG 11768_LOG.indd 26 October 2012 9/28/2012 11:54:59 AM �Paul Hall Center Classes Basic & Advanced Fire Fighting – Six individuals graduated from this course Aug. 3. Completing their requirements (photo at left, in alphabetical order) were: Martin Allred, Darryl Bence, James Copeland, Nicholas Kempker, Keith Reeder and Christopher Staley. Class Instructor Wayne Johnson is at the far right. Important Notice Students who have registered for classes at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, but later discover - for whatever reason - that they can’t attend, should inform the admissions department immediately so arrangements can be made to have other students take their places. Fast Rescue Boat – The following Seafarers (above, in alphabetical order) graduated from this course Aug. 3: Lawrence Cromier, Timothy DeWine, Christopher Hickey, Scott Krajniak, Timothy Russell, Robert Taylor, Timothy VanWeezel and Warren Wirth. Tom Truitt, the class instructor, is at the far right. BST – Fourteen individuals finished this course Aug. 17. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Matthew Alexander, Raymond Alexander, Kevin Blackman, Nathan Elliott, Egbert Campbell, Maria Garcia, Raymond Hotchkiss, Karen Laycock, Hospicio Lupisan, Jeremy Pace, Orlando Reveron, Anthony Simon, Kanesha Spence and Peter Wojcikowski. Class Instructor Joe Zienda is at the far right. Advanced Refrigeration Container Maintenance – Three Seafarers completed the enhancement of their skills in this course Aug. 10. Those graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Sergio Ayala, Aruady Bichevsuy and Daniel Borden. Class Instructor Jay Henderson is at the far left. Steward Department Graduates – Three individuals completed courses of study in the steward department Aug. 15. Those graduating, and their respective courses (above, in alphabetical order), were: Troy Smith, chief cook; Francis Toth Jr., chief steward; and Eric Clotter, chief steward. Bridge Team Training (Allied Towing) - The following individuals from union-contracted Allied Towing (above, in alphabetical order) graduated from this course Aug. 1: Walt Brooks, William Burkette III, Andrew Eastman, Gerald Gamage, Joseph Lewis and George Rew. Class Instructors Stacey McNeely and Bradford Wheeler are at the far left and second from left, respectively. Bridge Team Training (Allied Towing) – Five Allied Towing mariners graduated from this course Aug. 8. Completing their requirements (above, in alphabetical order) were: Wayne Henry, Bryan Kneeland, Matthew Parker, Gene Payne and Lance Riggs. Stacey McNeely and Bradford Wheeler, their instructors, are at the far left and far right, respectively. October 2012 11768_LOG.indd 27 Seafarers LOG 27 9/28/2012 11:55:05 AM �Volume 74, Number 10 October 2012 Paul Hall Center Course Dates Page 25 Around the Ports With the SIU WELCOME ASHORE – Newly retired AB Charlie Whitehead (left) recently picked up his first pension check at the union hall in Jacksonville, Fla. Patrolman Brian Guiry (right) was among those to offer congratulations. CONGRATULATIONS, GRADUATES – Two Seafarers were recognized at the September membership meeting in Piney Point for their respective academic achievements. Unlicensed Apprentice Matt Thomas (above, right) earned his high school diploma through the program run by the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education. His test scores were among the highest in the program’s history. And, AB Brandon Braam (above, left) earned an Associate of Applied Science degree in nautical science technology. In an email to the LOG, Braam said that getting the degree “required hundreds of hours of studying, and was more difficult than I expected. Still, the ‘juice was definitely worth the squeeze’ and I’m glad I took advantage of this unique opportunity. So many people helped and encouraged me along the way, including family, friends, fellow students, housekeepers, admissions staff, and of course Peggy, Francine, Rick, and Dale in Academics. I’d also like to thank the SIU leadership for continuing to support the degree program. Joining the SIU, upgrading my skills, and continuing my education have changed my life. THANKS!!” SHOWING THE COLORS ON LABOR DAY – More than two-dozen Seafarers and members of the SIU-affiliated United Industrial Workers (UIW) marched in the Labor Day parade in Wilmington, Calif. Some of the SIU contingent is pictured at right. Sponsored by the Los Angeles/ Long Beach Harbor Labor Coalition, the event featured the annual march along Wilmington’s Avalon Boulevard followed by a program at the historical Banning Park. Speakers from many unions, information booths, free food, soft drinks and music all were featured during the program. In addition to the SIU/UIW contingent, the event was attended by thousands of other union members, their families, supporters and friends of labor. Collectively, participants marched in solidarity to support the rights of workers in the United States as well as those of their brothers and sisters abroad. WITH MEMBERS IN TACOMA – Seafarers in late August gathered in Tacoma, Wash., for the sixth annual barbeque outside the union hall. As Port Agent Joe Vincenzo put it, “The day was perfect, from our guests to the weather which was perfect and proves beyond any reasonable doubt that Mother Nature is a bona fide unionist!” Musical entertainment was provided by (photo at top left, from left) Recertified Bosun Joe Artis and Recertified Steward Lincoln Pinn. Among those enjoying the festivities were (photo at bottom left, from left) Recertified Steward Brenda Kamiya, QMED Carl Castagna and AB Gil Manipon. In the large group photo below, members are pictured on a different day with U.S. Rep. Rick Larsen (D-Wash.) at the congressman’s campaign headquarters in Everett, Wash. From left are Vincenzo, retiree Joe Crowe, AB Clifton Ayars, Chief Cook Keesha Holloway, Congressman Larsen, Bosun Sanjay Gupta, QMED Paula Gomez, AB Robert Duncan, Chief Steward Clark Williams, Recertified Steward Michael Meany, Recertified Steward Amanda Suncin, GUDE Virgil Tudorache and AB Brian Frederick. In the remaining photo, U.S. Rep. Adam Smith (D-Wash.) poses with the port agent before addressing Seafarers at the August membership meeting. 11768_LOG.indd 28 9/28/2012 11:55:14 AM � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Seafarers Log Issues 2010-2019 Description An account of the resource Volumes LXXII-LXXXI of the Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Seafarers Log Digital Copies Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 2010-2019 Document A resource containing textual data. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre text. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource October 2012 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES DELIVERING SINCE 1938 SIUNA CONVENTION CELEBRATES UNION’S HISTORY, STRESSES POLITICAL ACTION, INTERNATIONAL SOLIDARITY UNION GAINS JOBS AS CROWLEY BUYS 2 JONES ACT TANKERS OBAMA-BIDEN THE CLEAR CHOICE SEAFARER RIGHTS TO EXPAND GLOBALLY MARITIME LABOR CONVENTION WILL NORMALIZE INDUSTRY BIPARTISAN SUPPORT FOR JONES ACT EVIDENT IN THE UNITED STATES CONGRESS POLITICAL ACTION, INTERNATIONAL SOLIDARITY EMERGE AS KEYS DURING SIUNA CONVENTION NEW TANKERS PROVIDE ADDITIONAL SIU JOBS HAPPY HOMECOMING FOR OCEAN ATLAS CREW APPRECIATES UNION’S SUCCESSFUL EFFORT TO END ORDEAL IN VENEZUELA PHC ADAPTS TO CHANGING TECHNOLOGY, REGS INFORMATION FOR THE 2012 ELECTION OF OFFICERS SIU ATLANTIC, GULF, LAKES AND INLAND WATERS DISTRICT/NMU UNION’S CONSTITUTIONAL COMMITTEE SUBMITS REPORT 2012 SIUNA CONVENTION WEST VIRGINIA CONGRESSMAN PROMISES FIGHT FOR JONES ACT, CARGO PREFERENCE U.S. MILITARY DEPENDS ON STRONG MERCHANT MARINE MSC COMMANDER, RETIRED MARITIME ADMINISTRATOR STRESS INDUSTRY’S VALUE, COOPERATION INTERNATIONAL MARITIME LABOR OFFICIALS EMPHASIZE SOLIDARITY, POLITICAL ACTION UNION LEADERS: ELECTION VITAL TO WORKERS’ RIGHTS AMO, MEBA PRESIDENTS RALLY SUPPORT FOR MERCHANT MARINE MEMBERS URGED TO TAKE ADVANTAGE OF UNION PLUS UNION SPORTSMEN’S ALLIANCE PROMOTES OUTDOOR EFFORTS ‘AT PINEY POINT, WE CHANGE LIVES’ SCHOOLS MISSION CELEBRATED WATERFRONT CHRISTENING EXTENDED EXPIRATION TWIC AVAILABLE MARINERS RETURN HOME AFTER HUMANITARIAN MISSION UNIONS RECEIVE DUE CREDIT FOR BUILDING AMERICA’S MIDDLE CLASS Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Seafarers Log Digital Copies Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 10/01/2012 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Newsprint Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context Vol. 74, No. 10 http://www.seafarerslog.org/archives/files/original/83cf707c956fe5177d707a4e781529b8.pdf 1b6fa5ac426386b907b0e8c771791419 PDF Text Text Volume 74, Number 11 November 2012 Christenings Signal New SIU Jobs Crowley Adds ATB; Navy Welcomes High-Speed Vessel The SIU-crewed fleet recently expanded as Crowley christened an articulated tugbarge (the ATB Legend, photo at top) while the Navy launched the civilian-crewed high-speed vessel USNS Choctaw County (bottom right). SIU members and officials along with company representatives joined the Crowley ceremony in Tampa, Fla., (group photo below) as Joan Grune christened the tugboat (photo above). Meanwhile, more than 700 people turned out for the Choctaw County ceremony in Mobile, Ala., where Theresa Gilliam Pitts (photo at immediate right) broke a champagne bottle across the bow. These fleet additions mean new jobs for SIU members. Page 3. (USNS Choctaw County photos courtesy Austal USA) CIVMARS Honored Page 2 11769_November.indd 1 SIU Election News Page 4 Scholarship Information Pages 11, 14 10/25/2012 7:25:17 PM �President’s Report After Election Day No matter who’s in the White House, our industry must – and will – continue working to preserve the laws and programs that keep the American flag flying on the high seas. This is a particularly important and challenging assignment as our nation edges closer to the infamous “fiscal cliff” that’s also known as sequestration. Sequestration refers to an automatic cut of portions of federal agencies’ budgets, spurred by the Budget Control Act of 2011. No one knows if a compromise or some other solution will be reached before the end of the year, when the cuts are scheduled to kick in. Sequestration is complicated. We have many people in the union and industry studying what could happen. But Seafarers should know that it threatens to weaken the Maritime Security Program and cargo preference laws, among many others. It also could reduce the number of ships in our Government Services Division. Collectively, that means our jobs are in the crosshairs. There isn’t much comfort in knowing we’re not alone, but this truly is a massive, nationwide threat. A recent study prepared for Congress estimated that sequestration-related cuts might eliminate 2.1 million American jobs in the next fiscal year. Many of those jobs are not in the government. Much in the same way that, for instance, expenditures related to the Jones Act help create and maintain hundreds of thousands of related jobs, federal agency spending sustains work in three different ways. As the author of the congressional report put it, direct jobs result from paying the salaries of government employees (including CIVMARS) and contracting with various companies to produce goods. When those contractors buy products from other firms, the spending helps support what are termed indirect jobs. And when employees in those first two categories spend parts of their paychecks out in the community – everything from routine trips to the grocery store to big-ticket items like buying a new car – additional jobs are supported by federal spending. Apparently, the term for that last category is “induced jobs,” but I don’t care what we call them as long as people are working. There has been a general feeling in and around the nation’s capital that sequestration somehow won’t happen – that the job losses would be too severe, and would occur at an exceptionally unfortunate time. (We all know, of course, there is no “fortunate” time to lose a job.) President Obama in the final pre-election debate surprised many by saying the cuts wouldn’t take place, but it’s late October as of this writing, and no concrete solution is in sight. We have to be prepared. Like I said, and as many Seafarers already know, it’s a complex situation. But the maritime industry is united in our ongoing fight to protect our jobs, and we will do whatever it takes to succeed. There’s still time to hit the brakes before going over that cliff. That is why it is very important to reach out to your U.S. senators and representatives to let them know you depend on your seafaring job to support your family and your community. Safety First Although the wrangling over sequestration-related cuts is an extreme example, in a roundabout way it reinforces the importance of the outstanding work performed by SIU members aboard all types of vessels. When we go to bat for our members and for the programs that help sustain the U.S. Merchant Marine, whether we’re in the halls of Congress or in a contract negotiation, what we promote first and foremost is you. Safety is a huge part of that equation, and on that note, I believe our crews are trained as well as, or better than any others around the world. It shows in your consistently reliable, safe work, whether on a tanker, a RO/RO, a containership, or a passenger ferry. From tugboats along the Mississippi to self-unloaders on the Great Lakes, and from military prepositioning ships in Diego Garcia to the Pride of America cruise ship in Hawaii, SIU members deliver. Your success helps us secure good contracts. Your safe work gives confidence to ship operators looking to grow their fleets. Your effectiveness reinforces the foundations of our arguments about the vital importance of job-sustaining programs like the MSP and cargo preference. Keep up the good – and safe – work! Volume 74, Number 11 November 2012 The SIU online: www.seafarers.org The Seafarers LOG (ISSN 1086-4636) is published monthly by the Seafarers International Union; Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU, AFLCIO; 5201 Auth Way; Camp Springs, MD 20746. Telephone (301) 899-0675. Periodicals postage paid at Southern Maryland 20790-9998. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to the Seafarers LOG, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. Communications Director, Jordan Biscardo; Managing Editor/Production, Jim Guthrie; Assistant Editor, Brian Ahern; Photographer, Harry Gieske; Administrative Support, Misty Dobry. Copyright © 2012 Seafarers International Union, AGLIWD. All Rights Reserved. The Seafarers International Union engaged an environmentally friendly printer for the production of this newspaper. 2 Seafarers LOG 11769_November_X.indd 2 Committee members meet in Piney Point, Md. Union Continues Fight for Mariners The SIU is looking out for its members’ interests with an advisory committee designed to simplify the Coast Guard’s mariner medical review process. Chaired by Dr. Kenneth Miller, the Department of Homeland Security’s Merchant Mariner Medical Advisory Committee (MMMAC) met recently at the union-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md., to do just that. Miller is the medical director of the SIU’s Seafarers Health and Benefit Plan’s clinic system. “It’s important (mariners) know we’re there to protect their livelihoods and to ensure the Coast Guard provides fair medical standards to the credentialing process,” Miller said. Established with the passage of the U.S. Coast Guard Authorization Act of 2010, the MMMAC is tasked with improving a medical review process that was widely seen as problematic and time-consuming. Prior to the formation of the committee, the Coast Guard established the review process completely on its own. Miller said that resulted in a lengthy medical review process that often cost mariners money-making sea time while they awaited approval. “We wanted to let the Coast Guard know what the industry thinks and how (the medical review process) is affecting people’s careers,” Miller said. “Part of the reason to get a specific committee was to advise the Coast Guard with mariner input and get union people to participate in the process.” Miller said the SIU took an active role in establishing the MMMAC, adding the composition of the committee was also seen as very important. The MMMAC consists of ten health care professionals and four professional mariners – none of whom work for the federal government. “The committee structure was to balance out the experience,” Miller said of the decision to include both professional mariners and doctors on the committee. “It wouldn’t be just a bunch of doctors talking to one another.” While the MMMAC’s work could take some time, Miller said the committee is making progress. The most recent meeting had the committee discussing ways to streamline the review process and making the Coast Guard’s medical evaluation guide – known as the NVIC 04-08 – more transparent and current. “At this stage, it’s still really early,” Miller said. “Down the road we might have more formal of an agreement.” When it comes to streaming the review process, Miller said the committee is considering the establishment a nationwide network of Designated Medical Examiners (DMEs) who would evaluate mariners specifically for the Coast Guard’s medical review process. Currently, mariners are examined by their own doctors – a situation that can result in multiple visits and weeks of additional waiting if those doctors fail to fulfill all of the Coast Guard’s requirements. “One of the big hold-ups (in the review process) is when people are asked to get more information from their doctors. By the time they go through that loop again it can take some time,” Miller said. Under the DME program, “the assumption would be – if you went to one of these (DME) doctors you would know before you submitted your application (what was needed) and they would be able to do some of the testing right there.” Currently, the medical review process takes an average of three to six weeks, though it can sometimes take several months if there are issues. With the DME program, Miller said, the process would be shortened and many of those issues could be avoided. “We’re working on making the credentialing process fairer for mariners so people can get their documents done more quickly,” Miller said. He added a quicker review process is especially important since the time between renewals may get shorter. While many mariners are currently required to renew their medical credentials every five years, that might change to every two years once the Coast Guard adopts the STCW’s new international medical standards. Regardless of when that happens, Miller said mariners should know MMMAC is there to look out for their interests. “We wanted this committee so the unions would have some input into the Coast Guard’s process of credentialing our mariners,” Miller said. “It gives us a voice.” SIU CIVMARS Earn MSC Accolades Seventy-one CIVMARS from the union’s Government Services Division were recognized Oct. 7 for their respective roles in making the U.S. Navy’s first Afloat Forward Staging Base (interim), the USS Ponce, an operational reality. Rear Adm. Mark Buzby, commander, Military Sealift Command (MSC), which has operational authority of the vessel, recognized the CIVMARS, three civilian vessel officers, and 17 uniformed U.S. Navy personnel who collectively comprise the Ponce’s combined crew. The awards were presented aboard the vessel while she was underway in the Arabian Sea. Ten of the CIVMARS were recipients of flag letters of commendation while the remaining 61 were awarded letters of appreciation. The Ponce’s civil service master, chief engineer and first assistant engineer each received DOD Meritorious Service Awards. Uniformed Navy personnel collectively were the recipients of one Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal, seven Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medals and seven flag letters of commendation. “The capabilities you brought— folks on the other side of the street are taking note of the capability you brought in,” Buzby told the award re- cipients. “We read it in Washington all the time. “You’ve done things that have never been done before,” the admiral continued. “You’re also setting the pace for the follow-on version of this ship, still being built. This old girl’s got a ways to steam and a lot of love for you to put into her.” Navy Capt. Jon Rodgers, the Ponce’s commanding officer, also presided over the ceremony. The Ponce is a 41-year-old amphibious transport dock that originally was scheduled to be decommissioned on March 30. Decommissioning was cancelled, and the vessel has been converted into an interim AFSB to fulfill a longstanding U.S. Central Command request. The AFSB (I) is a new kind of vessel staffed by a mixed crew of civilians and U.S. Navy sailors. She will be used to support minesweeping, helicopter operations, and patrol craft. The vessel can also be utilized as a mobile staging base for special operations forces. SIU Government Services Division members on the USS Ponce (pictured last year) recently were honored by the Military Sealift Command. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Scott Pittman) November 2012 10/30/2012 6:49:24 AM �SIU Welcomes New Jobs as Crowley Christens ATB SIU members and officials took part in the celebration Sept. 27 in Tampa, Fla., as Crowley Maritime Corporation christened the 16,000-horsepower tugboat  Legend and 330,000-barrel tank barge  750-2. Together the vessels comprise the company’s newest SIU-crewed articulated tug-barge (ATB) – one that will be used to transport petroleum products between the U.S. Gulf and East Coasts, including regular port calls in Tampa where the company currently discharges nearly 163 million gallons of product each month. SIU Vice President Contracts George Tricker and Vice President Gulf Coast Dean Corgey attended the christening and met with the union crew. “Crowley’s continued investment in the U.S. Merchant Marine is a credit both to the company and to our membership,” Tricker stated. “We were happy to join in the celebration and we appreciate the strong partnership we enjoy with Crowley.” Corgey pointed out that the Legend “means additional work in the Jones Act trade, which is good for U.S. national and economic security. This new tonnage is a classic win-win for everyone involved.” The  Legend/750-2 is the second of three petroleum tank vessels in its class The Legend is a state-of-the-art ATB that means new jobs for SIU members. in terms of size, speed and capacity in the company’s fleet, and together measures 674 feet in length. It carries a crew of 14. “We are extremely pleased to add another 750-class ATB to the fleet,” said Crowley Petroleum Services Senior Vice President and General Manager Rob Grune. “The Legacy/750-1 has proven to perform amazingly well and meet our customers’ needs. We are confident that, like the first of its kind, the Legend/750-2 will also exceed industry standards for the safest possible transportation of petroleum and chemical products.” Grune’s wife, Joan, acted as vessel sponsor and participated in the time-honored tradition of christening the  Legend, assisted by  the wife of Gregg Qualls of Marathon Petroleum Company, Christina, who christened the barge 750-2. In addition to the SIU contingent, more than 100 guests, including customers, friends and employees from Crowley; the shipyards – VT Halter Marine, of Pascagoula, Miss., and Dakota Creek Industries, of Anacortes, Wash. – attended the event. A celebratory reception followed at the Florida Aquarium. ATBs at a Glance Articulated tug-barges (ATBs) consist of a tank vessel (barge) and a large, powerful tug that is positioned in a notch in the stern of the barge, which enables the tug to propel and maneuver the barge. Unlike an ITB (integrated tug-barge), where the tug and barge are locked together in a rigid connection and become for practical purposes one unit, the ATB has an articulated or “hinged” connection system between the tug and barge. This allows movement in one axis, or plane, in the critical area of fore and aft pitch. Advantages of ATBs include improved reliability and safety over towed barges, improved operating efficiency as compared to towed barges and tankers, and the fact that they can be delivered in less time than it takes to construct and deliver new conventional tankers. ---Source: Crowley Maritime Corporation Navy Launches Second High-Speed Vessel: USNS Choctaw County The U.S. Navy recently launched the second of 10 joint high-speed rapid transport vessels to be crewed by civil service and civilian contract mariners. Launching from Mobile, Ala., in October, the newly christened USNS Choctaw County is the second of a 10-ship, $1.6 billion program designed to provide joint high-speed vessels (JHSVs) for rapid transport of troops and military equipment. The Choctaw County signals new jobs for members of the SIU Government Services Division – it will operate from Little Creek, Va., and is expected to begin conducting missions for the Navy during the first quarter of 2014. “The ship’s performance will be matched by the unique qualities of her crew – 21 civil service mariners committed to freedom, democracy and compassion,” said Deputy MSC Commander Rear Adm. Brian LaRoche while addressing more than 700 people during the ship’s christening event. “Choctaw County will carry the Military Sealift Command funnel stripes and the strength of the U.S. military wherever America needs it.” November 2012 11769_November.indd 3 “It’s great to be able to share another milestone with the people who were an integral part of designing and creating such an innovative vessel, which will continue to help us provide our customers with the best available technology, safety and cost effectiveness for years to come,” said Grune. “We’re looking forward to doing it again once the final 750-class vessel is completed and ready to work.” The last of the three ATBs in this class being built for the company, the  Liberty/750-3, is under construction and, once completed, will operate in the Jones Act U.S. coastwise trade. Altogether, the 700-class ATBs will bring the company’s total ATB fleet to 17, including four 155,000-barrel and ten 185,000-barrel ATBs. The 750-class barges are 45,000 deadweight tons, 600 feet in length, 105-feet, six-inches in breadth and 54-feet, threeinches in depth. The fully loaded draft is 35 feet. Both barges, 750-1 and 7502, were built by VT Halter Marine Inc. in Pascagoula and the tugs Legend and Legacy  were constructed by Dakota Creek Industries. The Liberty/750-3 is scheduled for delivery during the first half of 2013. All 10 MSC-owned JHSVs will be civiliancrewed. The first four – including the Choctaw County – will be manned by federally-employed civil service mariners, while the remaining six will be crewed by civilian mariners working for private companies under contract to MSC. The JHSVs – 338-foot-long aluminum catamarans – are designed to be fast and maneuverable in both deep and shallow water, making them effective at transporting troops and materiel within a theater of operation. The vessels are part of the U.S. Defense Department’s next generation of multi-use platforms and can be quickly adapted to whatever the mission calls for, according to MSC. That includes everything from carrying containerized portable hospitals for disaster relief to transporting tanks and troops. Civilian Capt. Jose Delfaus, who serves as Choctaw County’s civil service master, said the ships fit perfectly with the new concept of forward-basing. The goal of forward-basing is to cut back on the number of overseas bases by equipping more forward-deployed ships with troops and gear. “JHSVs can join up with these ships and help them essentially by being their delivery truck, delivering anything they need from troops and gear to provisions or cargo,” he said. JHSVs can transport 600 tons of troops, supplies and equipment 1,200 nautical miles at an average of 35 knots, according to the Navy. Their aviation flight decks can support day and night operations, Christina Qualls christens the barge in Tampa. SIU Capt. William Lenfestey (center) is pictured with SIU VPs George Tricker (left) and Dean Corgey. while each vessel also has sleeping accommodations for up to 146 and airline-style seating for up to 312. “The JHSV bridge functions more like a 747 cockpit than a traditional ship’s bridge,” Delfaus said. “Everything you need to move the ship is available through an elaborate control panel. The navigation team also sits in the bridge, as does the engineering consul. It’s a very unique set up – the rows of people make it look a bit like Star Trek.” The USNS Choctaw County is moved from Austal’s assembly bay in Mobile, Ala. (Photo courtesy Austal USA) Seafarers LOG 3 10/25/2012 7:25:31 PM �Union Election Voting Began Nov. 1 The voting process for officers of the Seafarers International Union’s Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/ NMU is under way. Eligible SIU members began casting their secret ballots at union halls Nov. 1. That process will go on until Dec. 31, as members may continue to vote at these locations or make their selections via absentee ballots in the mail. Seafarers eligible to vote in this election – which will determine union officials for the 2013-2016 term – are full-book members in good standing. This eligibility criteria is outlined in the union’s governing document, the SIU Constitution. The ballot, a sample of which appeared on pages 7 and 8 of the October 2012 edition of the Seafarers LOG, lists the names of all qualified candidates as determined by the credentials committee, a group made up of six rank-and-file Seafarers who reviewed the nominating petitions of all SIU members seeking office in this district-wide election. Absentee Ballots Available for Members Voting for the election of officers for the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU commenced Nov. 1. In the case of members eligible to vote who believe they will be at sea during the Nov. 1 through Dec. 31, 2012 voting period or who otherwise think they will need absentee ballots, absentee ballots will be available. The SIU constitution ensures that members who are eligible to vote and who find themselves in this situation may vote. Procedures are established in the SIU constitution to safeguard the secret ballot election, including the absentee ballot process. Here is the procedure to follow when requesting an absentee ballot: n Make the request in writing to the SIU office of the secretary-treasurer, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. n Include in the request the correct address where the absentee ballot should be mailed. n Send the request for an absentee ballot by registered or certified mail. n The registered or certified mail envelope must be postmarked no later than midnight, Nov. 15, 2012 and must be received at 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746 no later than Nov. 25, 2012. n The secretary-treasurer, after confirming eligibility, will send by registered mail, return receipt requested, to the address designated in the request, a ballot, together with an envelope marked “Ballot” and a mailing envelope no later than Nov. 30, 2012. n Upon receiving the ballot and envelope, vote by marking the ballot. After voting the ballot, place the ballot in the envelope marked “Ballot.” Do not write on the “Ballot” envelope. n Place the envelope marked “Ballot” in the mailing envelope which is imprinted with the mailing address of the bank depository where all ballots are sent. n Sign the mailing envelope on the first line of the upper left-hand corner. Print name and book number on the second line. The mailing envelope is selfaddressed and stamped. n The mailing envelope must be postmarked no later than midnight, Dec. 31, 2012 and received by the bank depository no later than Jan. 5, 2013. 4 Seafarers LOG 11769_November.indd 4 The credentials committee report, which was prepared Aug. 16, and submitted to the membership at the September monthly meetings, indicated 26 candidates had qualified to run for 25 positions. (The committee report also was published in the September 2012 LOG.) The 25 posts for which Seafarers will cast their ballots are president, executive vice president, secretary-treasurer, six vice presidents, six assistant vice presidents and 10 port agents. 20 Polling Places The election will be conducted by mail ballot as provided in the union’s constitution. Secret ballots, accompanied by envelopes marked “Ballot” and postage-paid envelopes printed with the address of the bank depository where the ballots are kept until submitted to the tallying committee, will be available to full-book members in good standing at 20 union halls around the country. (See list of voting locations on this page.) Eligible Seafarers may pick up their ballots between 9 a.m. and noon, Monday through Saturday, except legal holidays, from Nov. 1 through Dec. 31. Each member must present his or her book to the port agent or the agent’s designated representative when receiving the ballot along with the envelope marked “Ballot” and the mailing envelope. When the Seafarer receives the ballot and envelopes, his or her book will be marked with the word “Voted” and the date. If a member does not present his or her book, or if there is a question in regard to his or her eligibility to vote, the Seafarer will receive a mailing envelope of a different color marked with the word “Challenged.” His or her book will be stamped with the words “Voted Challenge” and the date. For members who believe they will be at sea during this time, the SIU constitution provides for absentee voting procedures. Full-book members in good standing who need to vote by absentee ballot should direct a request for the ballot to the union’s secretary-treasurer at SIU headquarters: 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. The SIU Constitution lists all acceptable reasons for obtaining an absentee ballot. Balloting Process Once the Seafarer has received his or her ballot and envelopes, he or she marks the ballot for the candidates of his or her choice and puts it in the envelope marked “Ballot.” This envelope is sealed by the member and then dispatched in the mail. These steps help ensure the integrity of the secret ballot process. The union’s constitution, in Article XIII, details the procedures for voting in union elections. All ballots will be counted by the rankand-file committee consisting of two members elected from each of the union’s constitutional ports. These committee members will be elected in December. They will convene in early January 2013. NOTICE OF 2012 ELECTION FOR ELECTION OF 2013-2016 OFFICERS SEAFARERS INTERNATIONAL UNION OF NORTH AMERICA Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes & Inland Waters District/NMU Elections will be conducted by secret mail ballot. Ballots may be obtained at the following locations from 9:00 a.m. to noon (local time), Mondays through Saturdays, excluding holidays, during the voting period. The voting period shall commence Nov. 1, 2012 and shall continue through Dec. 31, 2012. Voting Locations Algonac 520 St. Clair River Dr. Algonac, MI 48001 Anchorage 721 Sesame Street, Suite 1C Anchorage, AK 99503 Baltimore 2315 Essex St. Baltimore, MD 21224 Ft. Lauderdale 1221 South Andrews Ave. Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33316 Guam Cliffline Office Ctr., Suite 103B, 422 West O’Brien Dr. Hagatna, Guam 96910 Honolulu 606 Kalihi St. Honolulu, HI 96819 Houston 1221 Pierce St. Houston, TX 77002 Jacksonville 5100 Belfort Road Jacksonville, FL 32256 Joliet 10 East Clinton Joliet, IL 60432 Mobile 1640 Dauphin Island Pkwy. Mobile, AL 36605 New Orleans 3911 Lapalco Blvd. Harvey, LA 70058 New York 635 Fourth Ave. Brooklyn, NY 11232 Norfolk 115 Third St. Norfolk, VA 23510 Oakland 1121 7th St. Oakland, CA 94607 Philadelphia 2604 South Fourth St. Philadelphia, PA 19148 Piney Point Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship Piney Point, MD 20674 Puerto Rico 1057 Fernandez Juncos Ave. Santurce, PR 00907 St. Louis 4581 Gravois Ave. St. Louis, MO 63116 Tacoma 3411 South Union St. Tacoma, WA 98409 Wilmington 510 North Broad Ave. Wilmington, CA 90744 Coast Guard Issues STCW Policy Letters Correspondence Provides Guidance for Mariners, Vessels That Must Comply The U.S. Coast Guard on Oct. 15 posted three policy letters offering guidance to mariners and ships that must comply with the STCW Convention. Individual links to the full announcement and the individual letters are available on the agency’s National Maritime Center website at: www.uscg.mil/nmc/stcw/default.asp. Both the SIU and its affiliated Paul Hall Center are working closely with the Coast Guard to help ensure a smooth transition to the 2010 amendments, particularly when it comes to course approval guidelines, some of which will be further clarified Each of the recently issued policy letters includes a disclaimer that reads in part, “This guidance is not a substitute for applicable legal requirements, nor is it itself a regulation. It is not intended to, nor does it, impose legally-binding requirements on any party. It represents the Coast Guard’s current thinking on this topic. You can use an alternative approach if the approach satisfies the requirements of the applicable statutes and regulations.” The eight-page letter titled “Hours of Rest Policy” notes that new minimum rest periods for “every person assigned duty as officer in charge of a navigational or engineering watch, or duty as a ratings forming part of a navigational or engineering watch, or designated safety, prevention of pollution, and security duties onboard any vessel that operates beyond the boundary line” consist of “a minimum of 10 hours … in any 24-hour period, and 77 hours … in any 7-day period,” though there are exceptions. The letter titled “Security Endorsements Policy” is seven pages, and it covers “issuance of endorsements and approval of training for Vessel Personnel with Designated Security Duties (VPDSD) and vessel personnel requiring security awareness training.” The 17-page letter titled “Endorsements and Training Approval Policy” points out that the most recent STCW amendments “establish new endorsements, and revise other existing endorsements. Consistent with these changes, upon publication of this policy letter, the Coast Guard will begin issuing endorsements for the following: Able SeafarerDeck (AS-D), Able Seafarer-Engine (AS-E). These endorsements correspond to the domestic rating endorsements of Able Seaman and Qualified Member of the Engine Department (QMED)…. The 2010 amendments to STCW also revise the requirements for endorsements for personnel serving on oil, chemical, and liquefied gas tank vessels. The Coast Guard will make changes to the verbiage of the STCW endorsements that are currently being issued, and expand the scope of mariners who may qualify for STCW endorsements for service on tank vessels.” November 2012 10/25/2012 7:25:33 PM �New York Port Council Honorees Salute America’s Working Families The AFL-CIO Maritime Trades Department’s (MTD) Maritime Port Council of Greater New York/New Jersey and Vicinity honored three individuals who stood up for the contributions of working people in accepting awards during the council’s annual dinner-dance Oct. 13. The SIU is an MTD affiliate, and SIU President Michael Sacco also serves as MTD president. International Union of Operating Engineers General President (and MTD board member) James Callahan, U.S. Rep. Michael Grimm (R-N.Y.) and David Foster, who as president and CEO of SIU-contracted American Steamship Company accepted that firm’s award, noted the hard work of those who have come before as well as those who meet the daily struggles at their jobs. Callahan served as president and business manager of IUOE Local 15 in New York City prior to being elected to lead his international. He saluted the solidarity found within the labor movement. “No matter what has to be done, we stand together,” Callahan stated. Upon receiving the council’s Paul Hall Award of Merit, the 32-year IUOE member noted it was “quite an honor.” He said he studied the life of the late MTD president and saw “he was looked down upon with bats. He worked and fought and took injuries for the working men of this country.” In introducing Callahan, MTD President Sacco said the IUOE president is “doing a great job not only with his union, but also as a member of the AFL-CIO Executive Council, where we both serve. He has worked his way up through the ranks, so he understands the challenges faced by the rank-and-file. And he is a true champion of America’s working families.” Pictured from left are Port Council Executive Secretary-Treasurer Peter Busacca, Port Council President Joseph Soresi, IUOE General President James Callahan, MTD President Michael Sacco and MTD VP Scott Winter. Sacco also pointed out a recent New York Times article that stated Wall Street employs about 160,000 related to its business while the port of New York has close to 280,000 workers. “Isn’t it interesting that those overpriced bankers and money-changers begrudge and belittle honest working men and women who show up no matter what the weather’s like and do their jobs for a family-sustaining wage,” the MTD president declared to applause from the nearly 600 in attendance. Port Council President Joseph Soresi (who also serves as SIU vice president Atlantic Coast) presented Congressman Grimm with the Government Man of the Year Award. Grimm wished his father, who had been a member of Roofers and Waterproofers Local 8, could have witnessed the occasion. The freshman legislator and Persian Gulf War veteran said it was his father who taught him “the respect and belief that we will do whatever it takes to give our children more than what we had. I know what built this country,” Grimm told the gathering. “It was the hard-working men and women who built this country. I will be with you the whole way. You are the beacon of hope, the beacon of life for the whole world. I share in your pride.” The council’s Herb Brand Memorial Award was presented to American Steamship Company, the largest U.S.-flag company on the Great Lakes. President and CEO Foster acknowledged, “It is the employees who keep us working; it is the customers who keep us in business. A company is only as good as its people, and we have great people.” Foster saluted the good working relationship the company has with its contracted unions – the SIU and the Seafarers-affiliated American Maritime Officers. He ended his remarks with a statement that brought the crowd to its feet: “Long live the Jones Act!” Clinic Expansion Means More Convenience, Less Travel for SIU Members The union and the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan are moving ahead with strategies to expand the network of SHBP-contracted clinics. To that end, officials from the SIU and the SHBP were scheduled to meet in late October with representatives from the SIU-contracted companies comprising the American Maritime Association. As reported at the October membership meetings, the extended network will greatly expand the number of clinics available to Seafarers. This will allow members to complete their physicals, functional capacity tests and other medical procedures closer to home. Seafarers also will be able to take follow-up exams that are re-evaluations rather than additional comprehensive physicals (a result of the standard contracts negotiated and ratified earlier this year). Additionally, Seafarers will have the option of utilizing the members-only portal on the union’s website (seafarers.org) to initiate clinic services. The expanded network tentatively is scheduled to launch in the first quarter of 2013. Details will be reported in the LOG, on the website and at regular membership meetings. Meanwhile, rank-and-file members and officials from the union and the SHBP are visiting some of the new medical facilities and completing some of the tests in order to help verify the quality of the clinics and the fairness of the procedures. SIU Vice President Contracts George Tricker stated, “We are aggressively working towards putting the final touches on improved clinic services that, once enacted, will provide greater access for our membership and eliminate the need for pre-sign-on physicals.” Seafarers Plans Administrator Maggie Bowen pointed out that expanding the network “is designed to offer greater accessibility to participants. Also, like our current clinics, the new additions are very high-quality facilities.” Officials, Trustees Break Ground for New PHC Claims Building Individuals who work in the SIU’s claims department, all members of the Seafarersaffiliated United Industrial Workers (UIW), now are one step closer to accomplishing their mission on a daily basis in the comfort of a pristine, state-of-the-art facility. A symbolic ground-breaking ceremony signaling the start of construction for the new claims department building at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education (PHC) was held Sept. 12 at the Piney Point, Md.-based campus. The ceremony was attended by union officials, trustees, guests and rank-and-file members who earlier had attended the 2012 Quinquennial Convention of the Seafarers International Union of North America at the school. Actual construction of the new structure, which has been in the planning stages for some two years, will commence in early 2013, according to PHC Vice President Don Nolan. Nolan said the new three-story 36,000 square- foot structure–which will be situated on the same tract of land on which the current claims building sits—should be completed within the next year to 18 months. Once open, the new complex will house some 40 individuals who provide assistance and information regarding claims and health benefits to active SIU members, retirees and dependents, as well as to members of SIU-affiliated unions. Office space in the facility also will be utilized by members of the SIU Medical Department, according to Nolan. Some 12,000 square feet of the new structure will be set aside for future expansion, he added. Eventually, this space will be chartered to tenant organizations that are affiliated with the union. While the new facility will represent a welcomed and much-needed upgrade for many, it undeniably has nostalgic implications for others. One such individual is SIU SecretaryTreasurer David Heindel. “The old claims building had and still has Union officials and trustees ceremonially break ground for the new claims building at the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. November 2012 11769_November_X.indd 5 a great deal of sentimental value to folks who went through Piney Point during the 60s, 70s and early 80s,” said Heindel, who attended the school in in 1973 and was a member of Class 137. “It was the mess hall during those days. “That’s where everyone gathered to socialize and of course have three squares a day,” he continued. “It was sort of the place that everybody met…. Aside from the old theater and bowling alley, it was really the only thing we had to look forward to. Everything else involved going to class and doing details such as picking up cigarette butts. “So to see the old building go will be like losing a piece of history for some of the older trainees,” Heindel concluded. “But we must step aside and allow progress to take place. I.m sure the tenants of the new facility will appreciate the new fresh surroundings and state of the art systems that will be available to assist our members’ claims needs.” Students partake in a meal inside the old dining facility at the Paul Hall Center which currently is used as the claims building. The new building will sit on the same tract of land. Seafarers LOG 5 10/30/2012 6:49:30 AM �Seafarers Sail With DOE for Science Horizon Spirit Helping Scientists Better Understand Earth’s Climate A Horizon Lines container ship will be collecting more than just cargo over the next year as it makes its trips between Los Angeles and Honolulu every two weeks. Seafarers aboard the Horizon Spirit will work alongside advanced scientific equipment designed to collect atmospheric data that could help scientists better understand the Earth’s climate and atmosphere. Horizon Lines – which is contracted with the SIU – allowed scientists from the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) to install the equipment for a year-long mission. Set to take place through September 2013, the study will collect data along the Horizon Spirit’s Los Angeles-Hawaii route repeatedly in different seasons and weather conditions. Scientists are calling it the most elaborate climate study ever mounted on a commercial vessel. “We are very grateful to Horizon Lines for giving us the opportunity to install our research equipment aboard the Horizon Spirit,” said lead investigator Ernie Lewis, an atmospheric scientist at the DOE’s Brookhaven Na- Brookhaven scientist Ernie Lewis stands near one of the mobile SeaTainer units now installed aboard the Horizon Spirit. tional Laboratory. “Collecting data on a wide range of atmospheric conditions over an entire year, including the transitions among cloud types along this particular route, will give us a large amount of data to help refine and validate models of Earth’s climate.” Officials with Horizon Lines said they were happy to help. In fact, said Vice President of Operating Services Pete Strohla, the project was a win-win. “Horizon Lines is happy to cooperate in the yearlong … project to improve climate modeling,” he said. “Our hope is that better understanding of climate change will facilitate more accurate weather forecasting, which in turn will help our industry plan safer and more fuel-efficient vessel routes.” While low marine boundary layer clouds over the ocean have a large influence over the Earth’s climate through their interaction with the ocean and atmosphere, scientists have been unable to effectively study that interaction before. That’s where the Horizon Spirit comes in. The ship’s route along a marine environment with variable cloud cover gives scientists the ability to study those clouds thoroughly, “providing a great opportunity for extensive data collection,” Lewis said. “These shipbased measurements can provide much more detailed information than can be determined from satellites, and these data will provide a valuable addition to other measurements that have been made in marine conditions, albeit for much shorter periods.” Scientists have spent the last nine months preparing the instruments and optimizing their performance for data collection. Many of the instruments are housed in three modified 20-foot SeaTainer cargo containers designed for mobile deployment. Other instruments include radars that are mounted to tables designed to maintain stable “vision” despite a rocking ship. “We approached Horizon about working together on this project with the idea that our equipment could be installed on the ship with no disruption of their ordinary operations,” Lewis said. In the meantime, the scientists will be eagerly awaiting the results of the lengthy data collection period. “In the end, these data will greatly enhance our understanding of clouds, aerosols, Earth’s energy and water balance … providing an unequalled dataset for Workers load scientific instruments into a modified 20-foot evaluating and improving climate models, Lewis said. cargo container aboard the Horizon Spirit. With Seafarers on the West Coast SIU Executive Vice President Augie Tellez met with Seafarers on the West Coast in late September and early October, both aboard ship and ashore. During discussions with the crews, he emphasized the importance of backing pro-maritime candidates on Election Day, and also updated Seafarers on the latest industry news affecting their livelihoods. Tellez made stops in and around Tacoma, Wash., and Long Beach, Wilmington and Oakland, Calif. A few photos from those meetings are published here. Aboard the Alaskan Navigator in Long Beach (from left): AB Manuel Enrico, AB Michael Ostrowski, Tellez, Recertified Bosun Greg Hamilton. Seafarers from three different vessels pose with Exec. VP Augie Tellez aboard the Cape Isabel in Long Beach, Calif. From left are DEU Richard Pepper (USNS Curtis), Electrician Mark Campbell (USNS Curtis), DEU Jason Stutes (Cape Inscription), Tellez, Bosun Rick Barnhart (Cape Inscription), Steward/Baker Leola Johnson (Cape Inscription) and Bosun Ron Sagadraca (Cape Isabel). Updating Seafarers aboard the Horizon Spirit in Long Beach, Calif., is SIU Exec. VP Augie Tellez (right). 6 Seafarers LOG 11769_November_X.indd 6 Shore gang members in Oakland, Calif., welcome officials for an informal meeting and photo opp. Members and officials gather for a photo aboard the Keystone State in Alameda, Calif. Some of the crew came over from the ROS ships Gem State and Grand Canyon State. November 2012 10/30/2012 6:49:36 AM �Ocean Atlas Ordeal Shines Light on MDL Defense Fund Vitally Important To SIU Members Since 1967 The importance of having a well-funded Maritime Defense League (MDL) was made abundantly clear this summer when Venezuelan authorities, including armed military personnel, boarded an SIU-contracted ship and detained the crew. While the two-week ordeal eventually turned out to be caused by a customs misunderstanding, the SIU crew and the AMO officers of the Ocean Atlas were initially threatened with jail time in a Venezuelan prison. SIU officials knew they had to do something to prevent that from happening, so they turned to the MDL. “With the Ocean Atlas we had a developing situation,” said SIU Counsel Leslie Tarantola. “During an appropriate drug search, weapons were discovered that were being carried on the vessel for use when the vessel travels through areas where the threats of piracy attacks are very real. It turned out to be a misunderstanding, as the weapons were declared, but we needed to immediately retain legal consultants and that is when we were able to turn to the MDL. I am quite certain that without it (the MDL), it would have taken a lot longer to resolve this situation and the mariners would have been detained and separated from their families for a substantially longer duration.” Formed in 1967 after various laws and court decisions prevented the SIU from using dues revenue to directly help mariners who were facing job-related criminal legal problems, the MDL remains a vital tool for the SIU to help members who are in legal trouble. It is funded exclusively through donations and has repeatedly come to the aid of SIU members who find themselves entangled in often baseless legal attacks. SIU Vice President Lakes and Inland Waters Tom Orzechowski, who regularly encourages members to contribute to the MDL, said situations like the Ocean Atlas show why donating is so important. “There’s no better place to spend that money than when our brothers and sisters are detained overseas and we need legal help,” he said. “The next time it could be you.” As the Ocean Atlas story made headlines around the world, Tarantola said company officials were able to retain a local Venezuelan lawyer for the crew while, thanks to the MDL, the union retained the counsel of a former U.S. congressman who knew and worked closely with high-level Venezuelan officials. The crew arrived safely in Houston soon after. “He was really able to expedite the process of getting the ship released,” Tarantola said of the former congressman. “I can’t say enough about how important his assistance was.” Members of the Ocean Atlas crew were certainly happy The recent saga of the Ocean Atlas underscored the MDL’s importance. with the results. Without the MDL, it’s widely agreed that the process would have taken much longer than it did. Instead of potentially facing extended delays in Venezuela, the crew celebrated its homecoming in Houston. “I’m very grateful to everybody that pulled us through and got it worked out,” Recertified Bosun David Hetrick told a reporter for the Seafarers LOG aboard the Ocean Atlas following its arrival in Houston. “It could have been terrible for all 15 of us.” Prior to the MDL, mariners were often left to fend for themselves when facing criminal legal challenges. In a 1967 speech proposing the creation of the MDL, former SIU Vice President Robert A. Matthews said many mariners went bankrupt trying to pay for their own legal defense. Whether they were falsely arrested for striking for decent wages or detained due to a misunderstanding – like the Ocean Atlas crew – Matthews said mariners needed to know they weren’t one set of handcuffs away from the poor house. “The law says the union can’t provide assistance, legal help or otherwise, unless the man is acquitted and released – even if the union believes it can help prove the man’s innocence,” Matthews said. “It’s too late then most of the time anyway because a union member has probably used up all his savings, if he has any – he’s hocked his house, car and everything else to pay for his defense – and after he beats the charge he’s back to where he started except for being broke and having a bad name.” Matthews went on to cite instance after instance of mariners being falsely imprisoned and intimidated by the police simply because of certain beefs or picket issues – situations that could very easily happen today. And that’s where the MDL comes in. “It is a most worthy cause and … it deserves the support of every SIU member and every union in member in this industry,” Matthews said. “It is the only way to provide the help that is needed at the time it is needed.” Thanks to the MDL, help was provided at precisely the right time for the Seafarers aboard the Ocean Atlas this summer. “It should be comforting to our brothers and sisters that we have this fund available to provide a safety net when and where it is needed.” said SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel. “The Ocean Atlas is just the latest example of MDL’s importance. And even though its original intent was to assist members on picket lines and such, the world is a much different place today. Seafarers are governed by many different laws and regulations today, both domestically and internationally. The MDL is a vital tool that allows the SIU to protect our members’ livelihoods without having to be concerned with spending their savings or going into debt.” When it comes to the difference between a member potentially going bankrupt or having his or her brothers and sisters donate a modest amount to the MDL, Orzechowski added, the decision should be obvious. “What the heck is $100 a year to put into that? Guys will put a hundred bucks a week into cigarettes and beer,” he said. “The MDL is a safety net. It’s cheap insurance for when these types of situations happen.” Orzechowski said the MDL is also about more than just getting mariners out of legal entanglements. “It’s also important for their families to understand there is a fund there so they’re not wondering, ‘How do I get my husband, wife, son or daughter home,’” he said. “[The SIU] is a pretty close-knit group of people and this is important.” While times have changed in the 45 years since the MDL’s founding, the legal threats facing mariners worldwide are still very real. As the case of the Ocean Atlas showed, the cause Matthews rallied for in 1967 is just as important in 2012. “SIU men have been subjected to harassment, jailings and legal problems.… Seamen everywhere have always been fair game for this kind of thing, whether because of a strike or job action, and for any other kind of job beef.” Matthews said. “It’s happened before, it’s happening now and it will happen again.” Black Eagle Lands in California In late September, Patrolman Nick Marrone II serviced the SIU-crewed Black Eagle in Concord, Calif. The Sealift Inc.-operated ship had just returned from delivering cargo in two African ports and was readying for a voyage to Japan. Chief Cook Jonda Tanner (right) shows Chief Cook Jasper Jackson around the galley before signing off. AB Romero Jomoc (right) welcomes Patrolman Nick Marrone II aboard after signing him in at the gangway. November 2012 11769_November.indd 7 Longtime Seafarer Vernon Huelett (right, with Patrolman Marrone) is sailing as a mate aboard the Black Eagle. He credits the SIU for giving him opportunities to advance. Chief Steward Brian Cushing (left), SA David Dingman Seafarers LOG 7 10/25/2012 7:25:45 PM �Bosun Praises Union-Affiliated School Gender No Obstacle in Seafarer’s Career Ascension Bosun Michele Laycock is anything but a crusader. She just happens to have found her niche in an industry – and a shipboard department – Earlier this year, Laycock accepted a safety award on behalf of fellow mariners from the USNS Effective. that’s more commonly occupied by men. But Laycock says there’s much to like about life as a merchant mariner, especially when one enjoys both the protections of a union contract and the opportunities available through the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education (PHC). Scheduled to complete the PHC’s third mate course in late December, Laycock says she’d recommend a seafaring career to anyone who might be interested – regardless of age or gender. “There are so many different ships that do so many different things, there is definitely one for anybody that wants to sail,” points out Laycock, a Kentucky resident who’s in her early thirties. “When I first entered the industry, somebody told me don’t pay attention to what anybody in the hall says about a ship, because you don’t know why they’re saying it. Any time you go out, just take the job and see for yourself. I thought that was very good advice and I think that’s the best thing you can do. Go out with an open mind and try it. This might be the perfect fit for you.” For Laycock, sailing wasn’t a childhood dream. “Honestly, I fell into this job,” she recalls. After high school, she completed some college coursework and then started working on dinner boats. In the year 2000, she joined the SIU-affiliated Seafarers Entertainment and Allied Trades Union (SEATU) in Indiana. Three years later, assisted by current SIU Baltimore Port Agent Elizabeth Brown, Laycock joined the SIU and signed on aboard the USNS Bowditch as a member of the deck gang. “My chief mate was a hawsepiper and he was always encouraging me to upgrade,” Laycock remembers. “Everybody on that ship was helpful; it was a wonderful experience. It was a good starting point, but I haven’t really ever had a bad ship.” She has stuck with the career for many reasons, not the least of which is the PHC. “This school is fantastic. It really is,” says Laycock, who has upgraded at the Piney Point, Md., facility more than a half-dozen times. “People can say all they want about union dues, but I have more than taken advantage of mine just in the classes that I’ve taken here – three times over, probably, in what I would have paid elsewhere. I have gotten my money’s worth, and people definitely should take advantage of what this place offers. They’re changing with the times, too. I may not always love being here but they do a good thing at this school.” She adds, “It is beautiful here. But what I really like – and I’ve taken classes in other places – is the instructors…. You don’t feel like you’re learning from somebody who only read the material out of a book. They’re fantastic.” As for the job itself, Laycock says she appreciates “meeting people from all walks of life,” the physical nature of deck-department work, and the vacation time. It’s also important that as a bosun, “I have an opportunity to initiate change. My opinion matters and the higher-ups listen to me.” She also values being covered by a union contract. “You don’t have to argue for your wages,” points out Laycock, who normally ships from the St. Louis hall. “Traditionally, for various reasons, when women are bidding for their own wages, they get lower pay than men. I don’t have to worry about that.” Speaking of tradition, while there are no official barriers between women and the deck department, it’s still an arena mostly occupied by men. Nevertheless, Laycock says she rarely experiences signs of resistance or discomfort from the male Seafarers she supervises. Those who haven’t met her usually take an initially cautious approach, but overall she has seen almost no irregular treat- Bosun Michele Laycock says the SIUaffiliated school in Piney Point has helped her advance, largely thanks to top-notch instructors. ment other than one isolated (and very tame) experience. “You have to accept that people grew up in different eras and areas,” she notes. Laycock isn’t certain about her long-range plans, but she wants to make at least one more trip as a bosun, and she is interested in earning an associate’s degree through the PHC. Already, though, she has accumulated many good memories, including five-plus years sailing as a bosun and helping her most recent ship – the Maersk-operated USNS Effective – earn the prestigious Jones F. Devlin award for (in this case) going 10 years without a lost-time accident. Laycock believes she has grown as a bosun, including having learned to be more assertive. “Unless you’re born into that leadership position, there’s a transition and there’s a lot to learn,” she acknowledges. “But 99 percent of it is how you deal with people.” AB Recalls Crossing Equator Editor’s note: The SIU-crewed Ocean Atlas currently is known by most Seafarers for its recent detention in Venezuela – a tense saga with a happy ending. Before the confinement, though, AB Russell Macomber wrote the following story covering a traditional event from the previous voyage. At least somewhat ironically, the original headline was “Fun Times Aboard M/V Ocean Atlas.” No Shellbacks or pollywogs were harmed during the ceremony. Nor was anyone else, for that matter. Men’s Domain? Don’t Tell Mate’s Class The third mate’s class at the union-affiliated Paul Hall Center that’s scheduled to end in late December includes four women: SIU members Nicole Geideman (above right), Samantha Murphy-Ortiz (above left), Stacy Murphy (below) and Michele Laycock (featured elsewhere on this page). Seafarers LOG readers may recall that sisters Stacy and Samantha were featured in the March 2010 edition. At that time, they said they planned to continue working their ways up through the ranks, and that’s exactly what they’re doing. 8 Seafarers LOG 11769_November_X.indd 8 The Crowley-operated and Intermarine-owned heavy lift vessel M/V Ocean Atlas was en route from Savannah, Ga., to Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, when it was discovered that four pollywogs were amongst the crew. As the route would bring the vessel into the southern hemisphere, the rest of the crew – all of them Shellbacks – were aghast to find out that their brethren had never sailed across the equator. Preparations for an initiation ceremony began immediately. The chief mate played the role of King Neptune and issued a royal summons demanding that the pollywogs appear in his presence to pay the price for invading his kingdom. The SIU crew, playing the part of King Neptune’s court, gathered up the offensive crew members and assembled them on the main deck. The king issued individual punishments for each of the four and the chastisement began. Once he was satisfied that they had paid the penalty for their misdeeds, all four sailors were assembled before the king and doused in seawater. Having been washed clean by the water that represents his kingdom, King Neptune declared all four worthy of being his subjects and each of the sailors was awarded Shellback status. Everyone on the ship had fun and was grateful for a break in the routine of what was to turn out to be a long voyage. After a port call in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, the vessel headed across the Atlantic to Ghana, Africa, then back across the pond to Brazil once again where it stopped in both Rio Grande and Santos. The Ocean Atlas finally headed home to Houston only to be delayed by Tropical Storm Ernesto. However, the crew persevered and made it safely to their home port. Once in Houston, Captain Scott A. Lund awarded certificates to the following members of the crew as proof of their new Shellback status: AMO member 3rd Mate Timothy J. Ramstetter and SIU members Electrician Jack Croft, GUDE Samir Tarsha and ACU Rashaad Mangram. Pictured left to right are GUDE Samir Tarsha, Third Mate Timothy Ramstetter, Captain Scott A. Lund, QMED/Electrician Jack Croft and ACU Rashaad Mangram. November 2012 10/30/2012 6:49:46 AM �Retired Lakes VP Byron Kelley Dies at 79 Byron Kelley, retired longtime vice president of the SIU’s Great Lakes and Inland Waters District, passed away Oct. 4 in Allen Park, Mich. He was 79 and had been in poor health. A Michigan native, Kelley made his living in the maritime industry for more than 50 years, and he remained active in the labor movement even after officially retiring from the SIU in 2000. “I always enjoyed working with Byron,” said SIU Vice President Gulf Coast Dean Corgey. “He was an oldschool trade unionist and he always fought hard for the members. He was a good guy and a solid SIU guy. We’re going to miss him.” Tom Orzechowski, who succeeded Kelley as the union’s vice president Great Lakes and Inland Waters, said, “Byron was a stalwart for workers’ rights. He was well-known throughout the labor community in Detroit and Wayne County. He will certainly be remembered.” Kelley (left) chats with a member in 1978 at the old SIU hall in Detroit. SIU Manpower Director Bart Rogers worked with Kelley in Alton, Ill., and elsewhere. He remembered Kelley as “always professional and knowledgeable. He was a hard worker who ran the Lakes when a lot of things were changing up there, and he stood fast to his union beliefs.” The son of a tugboat captain, Kelley began sailing in 1951. He served four years in the U.S. Coast Guard (1953-57) before returning to the merchant marine, where he earned licenses as a tugboat captain and pilot. He came ashore to work for the union in 1973 and held positions including representative, safety director, and assistant vice president. He became a vice president in 1990 and remained in that post until his retirement. Reflecting on his career, Kelley in the year 2000 stated, “It sounds cornball, but what I enjoyed the most was seeing the comfort of the working guy improve to the point where they make a damn good living. When I started sailing, if you got a 2-cents-an-hour raise, that was something. Today, it has evolved and become a job to be proud of. Here on the Lakes, the money and the benefits through the SIU are such that the members don’t want to give them up. So, my ability to help through the negotiating process is probably my greatest source of pride.” During his sailing days, Kelley worked Cape Kennedy and Cape Knox Byron F. Kelley 1933-2012 for Great Lakes Towing, Dunbar and Sullivan Dredging, and others. When he retired, more than 200 wellwishers turned out for a combination birthday party-retirement gathering in Allen Park. Attendees included numerous officials from the SIU and other labor organizations, U.S. House of Representatives Minority Whip David Bonior, and U.S. Rep. John Dingell. Overseas Houston New Orleans-Area Seafarers Vote ‘Aye’ for New Contracts These photos were taken earlier this year in and around New Orleans as SIU members voted on the new standard freightship and tanker agreements and (separately) a new pact covering Seafarers employed by Crowley. The contracts featured wage increases and either maintained or boosted benefits, and they passed by overwhelming majorities. SIU New Orleans Safety Director James Brown is in two of the photos (Overseas Houston and one of the Crowley pictures), wearing a hat and glasses. The photo at left and those directly above show some of the Seafarers who voted on the Crowley contract. The photo at right shows one of the ATBs aboard which they work. November 2012 11769_November.indd 9 Seafarers LOG 9 10/25/2012 7:25:53 PM �MEETING ABOARD EVERGREEN STATE – Seafarers are pictured in early July following their monthly union meeting aboard Crowley’s Evergreen State. Above at left is Recertified Bosun Greg Jenkins. In the group photo are (seated, from left) AB Emmanuel Wilson, Oiler Abdul Ghaleb, Chief Steward Tyrell Thabit, (standing) AB Ernesto Lomboy, AB Nestor Rapusas, Pumpman Montree Nakwichet, AB John McElhaney, Oiler Jacob Diefenbach, ACU Demetrio Faulve and SA Adriana Chavero. At Sea and Ashore With the SIU WITH SEAFARERS IN TACOMA – Pictured on the dock next to the Midnight Sun are OMU Alexis Frederick (left), SIU Port Agent Joe Vincenzo (center) and AB Gamal Muflahi. SHIPBOARD REUNION – When Second Mate (and SIU hawsepiper) Jeff Yegge (left) and then-UA Ross Halsted sailed together aboard Pasha Hawaii’s car carrier Jean Anne, it marked a reunion of sorts. Twenty years earlier, they sailed as bellhops aboard the cruise ship SS Independence. Halsted is now an FOWT. CONGRATS ON RETIREMENT – Longtime Oakland, Calif., shore gang member Reynaldo Dimacale (center) receives his first pension check after 32-plus years of membership. Congratulating him at the Oakland hall are Safety Director Kathy Chester (left) and Administrative Assistant Dianna Marrone. 10 Seafarers LOG 11769_November.indd 10 JUST DESSERTS – Recertified Steward Travis Jefferson shows off his retirement cake on board the Horizon Anchorage returning from Alaska. Recertified Steward Scott Opsahl (who submitted the photo) pointed out that Jefferson’s first ship, Alaska Steamship Company’s SS Tatalina, also sailed to Alaska some 47 years ago. A-BOOK IN OAKLAND – AB Kenneth Johnson (left) received his A-seniority book at the union hall in Oakland, Calif., in mid-September. Congratulating him is Patrolman Nick Marrone II. Johnson’s most recent ships included the Horizon Pacific and Keystone’s USNS Stephen W. Pless. SAFETY AWARDS ON GREEN POINT – Vessel master Capt. John E. Belcourt (right in each photo) recently commended the work of Seafarers aboard the MV Green Point, operated by Central Gulf Lines. In particular, he pointed out that AB Jackson Gourgue (photo at right, above), AB Gregory “Dollar Bill” Saguran (photo directly above) and AB John Sanchez (remaining photo) received safety awards in the Gulf of Aden “for outstanding safety, especially in these high-risk waters. All three are outstanding sailors who are very much appreciated.” November 2012 10/25/2012 7:26:01 PM �SHBP Scholarship Program Offers $132,000 in Grants Union Officials Encourage Eligible Seafarers, Dependents to Apply Contemplating attending college and finding ways to pay for it may be stressful under any circumstance, but that’s particularly so in light of today’s skyrocketing tuition costs, state budget cuts, volatile economy and growing numbers of applicants. In-state tuition costs at four-year public colleges increased by 15 percent from 2008-09 to 2010-11, according to college affordability data released in June by the U.S. Department of Education. Further, the data revealed, tuition at community colleges increased by 16.6 percent and by 9.7 percent at four-year non-profit colleges. Hikes of 8.1, 13.5 and 12.6 percent were posted by four-year for-profit, two-year nonprofit and two-year for-profit colleges, respectively, during the same period. If those numbers seem daunting, the good news for Seafarers and their dependents looking to further their educations is that financial help is available through the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan (SHPB), which each year offers scholarships to qualified applicants. Designed to ease the financial challenges associated with college and vocational studies, the 2013 SHBP Scholarship Program will offer eight awards totaling $132,000. Three scholarships will be designated for Seafarers while five will be targeted for spouses and dependents. One of the endowments reserved for Seafarers totals $20,000 and is intended to help defray the costs associated with attending a four-year, college-level course of study. The remaining two are in the amount of $6,000 each and are designed as two-year awards for study at a postsecondary vocational school or community college. Each of the five scholarships for spouses and dependents is for $20,000. Now is an ideal time to begin the application process. The first step is to send for the 2013 SHBP Scholarship Program booklet. The package contains eligibility information, procedures for applying for the scholarships and an application form. To obtain a copy of this handout, simply complete the form which appears on this page and return it to the address provided. As an alternative to requesting a package through the mail, they also are available at SIU halls. Once the scholarship booklet has been received, applicants should check the eligibility criteria. They should also begin collecting and assembling the remainder of the paperwork needed to submit with the full application, which must be received by April 15, 2013. Items that need to be incorporated in the final application package include transcripts and certificates of graduation. Since some institutions respond slowly in handling transcript needs, requests should be made as early as possible. Letters of recommendation – solicited from individuals who know the applicant’s character, personality and career goals – should be included as part of the application package. A high-quality photograph and a certified copy of the applicant’s birth certificate are also required and should accompany the package. A scholarship selection committee, consisting of a panel of professional educators, will examine the high school grades of all applicants as well as evaluate scores from their Scholastic Aptitude Tests (SAT) and American College Tests (ACT). Accordingly, arrangements should be made by applicants who have not done so to take these tests no later than February 2013. Doing so will virtually assure that the results reach the evaluation committee in time for review. Seafarers and dependents who previously applied for the scholarship program and were not selected are encouraged to apply again this year, provided they still meet the eligibility requirements. Don’t let the rapidly increasing costs of higher education prevent you from realizing your goals. The SHBP Scholarship Program can make the same difference for you that it has made for other Seafarers and dependents. In the last nine years alone, the SHBP has awarded more than $1 million in scholarships to 68 college-bound individuals –18 Seafarers and 50 dependents. A list of these awards (by year) follows: Prospective College Students May Now Submit Applications For Union Plus Scholarships Applications are being accepted for the 2013 Union Plus Scholarship Program, which provides $150,000 in scholarships to union members, their spouses and dependents. SIU members, retirees and their dependents are eligible to apply because of the union’s participation in Union Plus, which is part of the AFL-CIO. This year’s application is entirely online—which will allow students to complete their applications over a period of time and save their responses. To apply, interested individuals should visit UnionPlus.org/Education. November 2012 11769_November.indd 11 2012 – A trio of Seafarers and five dependents shared scholarship awards totaling $132,000. Claiming the grants for active Seafarers were AB Daniel Giles, AB Curtrina Duck, and QMED Jesse Tornabene. Claiming the dependents’ awards were: Kathryn Flanagan, daughter of Recertified Bosun Thomas Flanagan; Julio Marcone, son of Steward/ Baker Julio Marcone; Patricia Madrio, daughter of ABG Roy Madrio; Abigail Tesfaye, daughter of QEE Tesfaye Gebregzaibher, and Heidi Garner, daughter of Capt. Edward Garner. 2011 - Three active Seafarers and five dependents shared grants totaling $132,000. Seafarers designated to receive these awards were: AB Cleveland Foy, AB Timothy Squire Jr., and AB Judith Merwin. Dependents claiming scholarships included: Randi Isenhart, daughter of Inland Captain Randy Isenhart; Nermine Abdelwahab, daughter of AB Mohamed Abadelwahab; Hailey Grubbs, daughter of Recertified Bosun Robert Grubbs; Allison Matias, daughter of Chief Cook Efren Matias; and Gabrielle Camacho, daughter of AB Noel Camacho. 2010 - $146,000 in scholarships was awarded under the SHBP’s 2010 scholarship program. Recipients included Recertified Bosun Lon Oliver; Robert Firme, son of Steward Roberto A. Firme; Alisha Wood, daughter of AB Wilbert E. Wood; Margot O’Meara, daughter of retired Inland Master James O’Meara; Eizie Giray, daughter of deep sea Bosun Rufino J. Giray; Jacob Miller, son of retired Chief Engineer Marlin Miller; Sime Masnov, son of Chief Engineer Marijan Masnov; and Molly Johnson, daughter of the late Bosun Michael Johnson. 2009 – Two Seafarers and six dependents were awarded $132,000 in scholarships. Claiming these grants were: Recertified Steward Brandon Maeda; QMED Robert Oliveto; Jeffrey Monteiro, son of Deep Sea Engineer Francis Monteiro; Bethany Horner, daughter of inland Captain Arthur Horner; Matthew Taylor, son of inland Captain Rodger Taylor; Jillian Cairco, daughter of retired Deep Sea Chief Engineer Gary Jarvis; Giselle Bodden, daughter of inland AB-Tankerman Albert Bodden; and Alyssa Rothschild, daughter of inland Chief Mate Robert Rothschild. 2008 – Scholarships totaling $140,000 were awarded to AB Peter R. Hokenson; Brittany Redding, daughter of Chief Steward Dennis Redding; Christopher Wozunk, son of FOWT John Wozunk; Benjamin Wilmoth, son of QE Wendel Wilmoth; Albert Balatico, son of AB Albert Balatico; Xiao Xiao Li, daughter of SA Meli Seegers; and Sidney Kirk, daughter of AB Robert Kirk. 2007 – $120,000 in endowments were awarded to Sarah Abdelwahab, daughter of AB Mohamed Abdelwahab; Alice Cooper, daughter of tugboat Captain James Cooper III; Nicole LaPointe, daughter of AB Robert LaPointe; Justine Lopez, daughter of Oiler Oswaldo Lopez; Marian O’Neill, daughter of QMED Guillermo O’Neill Jr.; and Jenna Stillman, daughter of AB Jerry Stillman. 2006 – Gifts totaling $132,000 were bestowed upon Seafarers Rahul Bagehi, Ken Stathos, Karen Domerego, and Brian McLarnon. Dependents selected were: Renee Dunham-Jones, wife of Recertified Steward Raymond Jones; Ryan Kirby, son of deep sea member Michael Kirby; Suci Madjidji, daughter of QMED Sjamsidar Madjidji; Shaval Stewart, daughter of AB Mark Stewart; and Kayla Watson, daughter of AB/Tankerman Randy Watson. 2005 –Three Seafarers and five dependents received $132,000 in funding. Seafarers selected were Chief Cook Kristen Swain, Brandon Maeda and Jeanette Montgomery. Dependents receiving scholarships were Adam Burton, son of Ross Burton; Ashleigh Coppola, daughter of Patrick L. Coppola; Stefan Nikolic, son of Desire Z. Nikolic; Anthony Sabatini, son of Anthony J. Sabatini; and Ronald Viernes, son of Leopold A. Viernes. 2004 – Six individuals—one active Seafarer and five dependents—shared $106,000 in scholarship awards. Mark A. Dyer claimed the Seafarers scholarship. He was joined by dependents Mary A. Hornby, daughter of James L. Hornby; Eleanor R. Preston, daughter of Chester W. Preston; Aaron J. Gibson, son of James O. Gibson; Rafika J. Shibly, daughter of Mohammed Shibly; and Glenys Castro, daughter of Salome M. Castro. Please send me the 2013 SHBP Scholarship Program Booklet which contains eligibility information, procedures for applying and a copy of the application form. Name............................................................................................................................................................................ Street Address............................................................................................................................................................. City, State, Zip Code.................................................................................................................................................. Telephone Number ( ) ...................................................................................................................................... This application is for: o Self o Dependent Mail this completed form to: Scholarship Program Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 The application deadline is January 31, 2013. available to help union families afford higher education: Eligibility Requirements n Scholarships to help union members and leaders finish their degrees with an affordable, flexible and convenient online program at the National Labor College. n Discounts of 15 to 60 percent on college and graduate school test preparation courses from The Princeton Review. Includes classroom, online and private tutoring for the SAT, ACT, GMAT, LSAT, GRE and MCAT, as well as college affordability and admissions online courses. Interested individuals may visit UnionPlus.org/CollegePrep or call 1-888-243-7737 for more information. Applications and eligibility requirements for these two benefits are available at UnionPlus.org/Education. Other Union Plus programs include mortgages, insurance protection and money-saving offers on flowers, car rentals and AT&T wireless service. Union members and their families may visit UnionPlus.org for more information. In addition to demonstrating academic ability, all applicants are required to submit essays of no more than 500 words describing their career goals, detailing their relationship with the union movement and explaining why they are deserving of a union scholarship. In addition, individuals applying must be accepted into an accredited college or university, community college or recognized technical or trade school at the time the award is issued. Graduate school students are also eligible for Union Plus Scholarships. There is no requirement to have participated in any Union Plus program in order to apply. Union Plus since 1991 has distributed more than $3.2 million in scholarships to working families. In addition to the Union Plus Scholarships, the following benefits are Seafarers LOG 11 10/25/2012 7:26:01 PM �The Forgotten Sailors Of World War II More than 1,200 SIU members lost their lives in World War II due to attacks like this one. Editor’s note: Beginning in September 2010, the LOG regularly has featured articles by retired mariner Ed Woods, who first shipped out during World War II, as a teenager. The earlier stories were run as two series, with the more recent one concluding in the September 2012 edition. Brother Woods recently submitted the following article along with the photo of some of his medals. R ecently, my grandchildren asked me about my World War II experiences. Their renewed interest in WWII is probably due to the success of the recent Hollywood movies covering the D-Day Invasion and other important military engagements. They, like many others, expressed surprise when I told them 16-year-old American boys served in World War II. They were more amazed to learn the United States government actively recruited 16-year-old boys for training and service in the U.S. Merchant Marine. I know this to be a fact, because I was one of them. I was a typical teenager of the early 1940s and, like most of my peers, I was a patriotic and a dedicated loyal American. It was the way I was raised. I believed the United States could do no wrong and I was ready to fight to prove it. I had heard of the atrocities committed by the Germans and Japanese in the countries they conquered. The movies and the media constantly reminded evThe author is pictured in 2006. 12 Seafarers LOG 11769_November_X.indd 12-13 eryone that we could expect the same cruel treatment if we lost the war. We were told, “Each and every one of you is expected to do his or her share in our fight to preserve democracy.” I believed it and I wanted to do something about it! Displaying one’s patriotism was the accepted norm of the day. In the theaters, before the movies started, the American flag would be displayed on the screen and everybody was expected to stand and sing our National Anthem. If anyone failed to rise during the singing, someone in the audience would threaten the nonconformist with grave bodily harm. There would be shouts, “What are you, a spy?” When I first heard this, I thought a spy must be very dumb to go to a local movie house and attract attention by not standing during the singing of our National Anthem. It was a problem for a boy who looked to be 18 years of age and not in uniform. He would be called a slacker. It did not take much to have a stranger say, “How come you’re not in the service. Are you a draft dodger?” It seemed that no one was exempt from being challenged about his patriotism. On the subway on my way to school, I recall seeing men with Asian features wearing badges that read, “I’m a loyal Chinese American.” They wanted everyone to know they weren’t Japanese. One day, while I was still attending school, I took a subway ride down to Times Square with two neighborhood friends, Vinny McCarvill and Eddie O’Brien. The area was not considered a suitable place for young boys to visit and I had been cautioned against going there. Among other adult attractions, there had been burlesque houses along 42nd Street until Mayor Fiorello La Guardia forced the operators to move their theatres across the river to Union City, N.J. When I heard of these adult activities and other various sights to be found at the “Crossroads of the World,” it made the area very inviting to a coming-of-age teenager and I decided to see Times Square for myself. During World War II, the Times Square district was filled with servicemen on leave looking for amusement. There were numerous military policemen patrolling the area to ensure the servicemen obeyed all the rules of good conduct. It was a busy and crowded intersection. There were also Italian prisoners of war on leave from their internment camp mingling with the crowd and flirting with the local girls. It annoyed me to see the American girls chatting with the POWs. The U.S. government considered the Italian prisoners harmless and gave them passes to go on liberty. They were only required to wear an arm patch identifying their status. On the day of our visit, a very young sailor in a U.S. Navy uniform decided to challenge us and asked why we weren’t in uniform. He was obviously drunk and older than us. We didn’t know how to handle the situation. We weren’t afraid of him but we realized how bad we would look fighting with a sailor in Times Square. Fortunately, two shore-patrol sailors came over and asked what was happening. The drunken sailor knew enough to keep quiet and I, wanting to be patriotic, told the SPs he was asking us for directions, and that ended the encounter. My two older brothers had been drafted in to the Marine Corps and my family had not heard from them in months. The only news we had were reports of U.S. Marines and U.S. Soldiers engaging in heavy fighting and suffering casualties on unknown islands in remote parts of the Pacific Ocean. On hearing this news I, more than ever, desperately wanted to become part of our fighting force. First, I tried to enlist in the Navy. The minimum age for enlistment, however, was 17. Someone in my neighborhood told me 16-year-olds could go to the Navy recruitment office, take the physical examination, and complete the necessary paperwork. They then would be called back on their seventeenth birthday to take the oath of enlistment and be immediately sent to a Navy boot training camp. It sounded very promising. I went downtown to the Navy recruitment office in lower Manhattan with my friends Vinny and Eddie, who were also 16 years old. While there, I was told I had a spine problem, diagnosed as scoliosis, and I would never pass the Navy physical examination. I felt devastated. I didn’t know I had a medical problem, and it had never bothered me. However, the recruiters told me there was some good news. The Maritime November 2012 Service was accepting 16-year-olds for training for sea duty in I had to attend classes to familiarize myself with the types of but legally we, the merchant crew, did not have the same protecthe U.S. Merchant Marine, and my scoliosis problem would not guns I could expect to find aboard ship. I was taught the basic tion. prevent me from enlisting with them. I’ll never know if I was operations of the big 5-inch 38-caliber and the smaller 3-inch He continued, “If you men are ever taken captive by the told the complete truth. It seemed like Maritime Day at the Navy 50. There was also an assortment of anti-aircraft (AA) machine enemy and they had any thought you had used arms against recruiting office. There were maritime recruiting personnel on guns. I took a liking to the 20mm AA and later, when I finally them, you would be subject to immediate execution.” He added, the premises to answer our questions and it seemed like every got out to sea, it was my first weapon of choice when the Naval “For this reason, you have to volunteer; no one can order you to kid was being told by both the Navy and the maritime persongunnery officer needed volunteers from the merchant crew. handle or fire any guns.” He told us to remember that at all times nel we would be doing the most for our country and ourselves if Next to the gun mounts was a gas mask training area. Here I we were subject to the Articles of War and the United States we joined the Maritime Service. They said German U-boats had was taught the correct way to don and wear a gas mask. After a Navy Rules and Regulations. He emphasized, “All of you are sunk so many of our merchant ships there was now a dire need very brief training period, I was led into a small building filled under the command of the United States Navy.” I was surprised for war supplies to be delivered overseas. “New ships are being with gas and told to remove my mask. I did as I was ordered to hear that he thought he had to remind us of this obligation. built all the time and young men are needed to sail them.” We and immediately began to cough and shed tears. It was a most From the day I enlisted, I believed I was under the orders of the hurried over to the nearby maritime office and applied. As preuncomfortable experience and, as I left the building, I prayed United States Navy and the United States Coast Guard. In fact, dicted, we passed the physical examination and were accepted that I would never be involved in a gas attack. I realized, of many of the base personnel, at the Sheepshead Bay Training Stafor training. course, from news reports that the Germans and the Japanese tion were United States Navy enlisted men. They told me that It was May 1944, I was in my second year of high school, were capable of using cruel and inhuman weapons and I had to my training was identical, without exception, to the training at and I quit before the term ended. I made a promise to myself be prepared to defend myself. I was one teenager who would be the United States Navy basic training camps. that I would be back after the war to finish my education. I liked prepared for whatever the enemy would try to do to me. It’s possible I wasn’t the first one to raise his hand to offer school and had always done well with my studies. My mother D-Day, the Allied invasion of Normandy, took place while my services but I tried to be, as I dismissed the thoughts of being cried when I told her I was leaving school and going to sea. She I was in training and it made me all the more eager to get out to shot at dawn or walking the gangplank of an enemy raider. I cried again when she reluctantly signed the permission paper that sea and hopefully to sink a few U-boats and shoot down some could hardly believe my good fortune – an opportunity to shoot allowed me to enlist. enemy aircraft. I passed every aptitude test I was given and I at the enemy. The AGO assigned me to the big 5-inch 38 as the Within a few days, I was on my way by subway to the qualified to go to any of the advanced training schools. The base hot shell catcher. It wasn’t exactly what I wanted but at least I Sheepshead Bay Maritime Training Station in Brooklyn, N.Y. personnel (ship’s company) then gave me some bad advice. would be a part of any action taken against the Nazis. There were about another hundred 16-year-old boys with me. They said there was a desperate need for messmen and stewards On the return trip from Liverpool, England, I was reassigned We were escorted by a grouchy old petty officer who let us aboard the ships and if I wanted to get to sea without any further to a 20 mm anti-aircraft machine gun. The lone Navy gunner know at once who was in charge. As expected, nobody chaldelay, I should take advantage of this opportunity. They added assigned to the gun was from New York and we became close lenged him and we were all practicing our, “Yes, sirs” before we that after I made a short trip or two, I could switch over to the friends. The gunnery officer told the gunner to teach me all he arrived at the base. engine department – my first choice. could about the gun, its maintenance and its operation. I loved During the next few days, we were divided into companies On graduation day, I was sent to a staging area in a midtown it. I eventually learned to take the gun apart and put it back tocalled sections and assigned to barracks. I was given another Manhattan hotel at 30 West 44th Street, New York City. It gether. I was also taken to the ammunition locker (ammo room) physical and received inoculations for just about every imaginhad been renamed The United States Maritime Service Graduand taught how to fill a magazine with the shells in the correct able disease. I was also issued uniforms and bedding. Every ate Station. Within a few days, I was assigned to a brand new firing order and to put the magazine under the proper tension piece of the government clothing issued to me had to have my oil tanker, the S/S Horseshoe. The ship was operated by War ready to mount on our gun. At gunnery practice we took turns name stenciled on it, including my socks. Emergency Tankers Inc. (WET INK), a subsidiary of Standard firing the weapon. The hardest job on the gun was changing the My training started immediately. I was told to learn to “box Oil, for the United States government under the supervision and barrel when it became overly heated. It was hot and heavy. Howthe compass” or face serious consequences. I quickly learned to orders of the United States Navy. ever, many times since, I have wished I was a teenager again recite the points of the compass starting from any given point. I made my way over to the big oil refinery in Carteret, N.J, and able to relive the excitement of answering the call to battle A “night watch” or “fire watch” list was posted each evening. to board her and reported to the chief steward. He posted me to stations as I asked myself, “Was this a practice drill or the real If my name was listed, I had to stand a two-hour watch that the crew’s mess hall where I quickly learned I was at the bottom thing?” night. I always hoped I would be assigned to an 8-10 PM or a of the pecking order of the ship’s crew. I was pleased that I had I eventually made two crossings of the Atlantic Ocean and 4-6 AM. If I was given the 12-2 AM or the 2-4 AM it meant my my close friend Vinny McCarvill with me to commiserate. The four crossings of the Pacific before the end of hostilities on sleep would be interrupted and I would lose about three hours of two of us were given similar assignments and we immediately August 15, 1945. While I was in the Pacific, the Navy made the sleep. The previous watch would wake me about a half-hour bevowed to switch to the engine or the deck department at the first Panama Canal Zone my ship’s home port. I didn’t visit the mainfore my scheduled tour and later it would take another half-hour opportunity. land United States for well over a year. to be debriefed by the duty officer. I would be dead tired when The excitement of being in a wartime convoy on the North I was in the invasion and retaking of Manila and was awarded reveille sounded the next morning. Everybody hated it! Atlantic Ocean en route to England took away my disappointthe Philippine Liberation Medal. I was awarded the Combat A drill instructor took charge of our section and we began to ment of being assigned to lowly mess hall duties. I thought of Ribbon for action with the enemy and the Atlantic and Pacific practice drilling as soon as we arrived at the base. The marching Humphrey Bogart in the movie Action in the North Atlantic and War Zone ribbons. A German mine blew a hole in my ship as we and drilling never stopped until the day I graduated. As my secwanted to be just like him. Fortunately, both the armed guard were departing Bremerhaven, Germany, before the official end tion made progress in formation drilling, we were taught some crew and the merchant crew all seemed to be great fellows. of the war. I spent many sleepless nights at battle stations listencomplicated maneuvers; moves like “to the four winds march,” Many of the merchant crew let me know they had started out in ing to destroyer escorts chasing U-boats or unidentified aircraft. I and we began to enjoy the exercises. Every section wanted to be the mess hall too. remember passing through an uncharted mine field off an island the best when we marched in review on the parade grounds beThe night before we sailed, the armed guard officer (AGO), a in the South Pacific. A lookout had reported sighting a mine off fore the officers’ reviewing stand on Saturday mornings. Navy ensign, held a muster in the crew’s mess hall. He came to our port bow and within a few seconds, four more mines were There was a lot of emphasis on lifeboat training. I was given the point at once, and said, “I have X-number of guns aboard this reported. At first, the lead gunners mate was ordered to try to a lifeboat training time card that was punched for each hour I ship to maintain and use against the enemy, however, I am far blow them out of the water using a rifle. It didn’t work and one spent with my crew rowing a lifeboat on Jamaica Bay. It eventushort of the trained manpower to do the job efficiently without of the 20 mm anti-aircraft machine guns was put to use. A deally added up to 44 hours of actually being in a boat and rowing the assistance of you, the merchant crew. I need volunteers and stroyer came into sight and took over the job of destroying the in the water. On occasions, our coxswain would challenge other I need them now.” He explained that the Articles of War offered Continued on Page 20 boats to a race. The fun and excitement of wanting to win gave some protection to his Navy gunners if they were taken captive, me energy I didn’t know I possessed. The time I spent in the water was in addition to the time I spent on the pier learning how to raise and lower a boat on its davits. Each step of the operation was done manually – strenuous for a skinny kid, but a lot of fun and I learned some very useful knot tying. I was told if I ever had to abandon ship, the first few minutes would be the most critical. Without question, learning how to launch a lifeboat and to get it away from a sinking ship would be crucial to my survival. It wasn’t easy, but I enjoyed every moment of it. Like myself, many of the other kids were products of the Great Depression and were underweight and we looked it. However, three solid meals each day and the training and discipline soon got us in good physical condition. I was issued a Lifeboat Man Certificate when I graduated and I still value it today among my wartime mementos. There was an obstacle course on the base and my drill instructor had the boys in my section run through it every few days. He timed us, and we were expected to show an improvement in our skill and speed each time. I found the rope-climbing to be the most strenuous and challenging. I couldn’t do it at This photo from 1944 was taken at the maritime training facility in Sheepshead Bay, N.Y. Ed Woods is pictured in the third row, second from right. Vinny first, but after much practice and exercise, I learned the technique. McCarvill, mentioned in the story, is third from right in the same row. November 2012 Seafarers LOG 13 10/30/2012 6:51:11 AM �11/12 14 Seafarers LOG 11769_November.indd 14 November 2012 10/25/2012 7:26:07 PM �TWICs Issued in 2007 Now Beginning to Expire Seafarers are reminded to check the expiration dates on their federally issued Transportation Worker Identification Credentials (TWIC), particularly now that the first documents issued back in 2007 have begun expiring. Mariners weren’t required to secure TWICs until April 2009, but the cards were available beginning in October 2007. So, any of the TWICs issued at that time with fiveyear expiration dates are due for renewal. Additionally, as previously reported, the Transportation Security Administration is offering certain TWIC holders the option of replacing their expiring TWICs with a threeyear Extended Expiration Date (EED) TWIC. That credential costs $60 and may be obtained via a single trip to an enrollment center. Detailed information about the three-year credential was published in recent issues of the LOG (including page 4 of the August edition) and is available at www.seafarers.org in a June 15 post in the “News” section. Information is available directly from the TSA at 1-866-347-8942, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. Eastern, and at www.tsa. gov/twic. When the agency announced the EED TWIC, the policy bulletin read in part: “Effective August 30, 2012, TWIC holders who are U.S. citizens or U.S. nationals, and whose TWICs will expire on or before December 31, 2014, have two options to renew their TWIC. They may either replace their expiring TWIC with a 3-year Extended Expiration Date (EED) TWIC or obtain a standard 5-year replacement. All TWIC holders should begin the application process at least 30 days before his or her TWIC expires. “The EED TWIC is a one-time temporary extension option intended to provide convenience and cost-savings to workers pending the deployment of TWIC readers. TWIC holders who are not U.S. citizens or U.S. nationals are required to enroll for a standard 5-year replacement upon expiration of their current TWIC.” Personal To Anyone Who Sailed With Samuel Tolcha Shar Mans would like to hear from anyone who sailed with late NMU member Samuel Tolcha. Brother Tolcha passed away in 2004, at age 85. Shar Mans may be reached via email at sharm@att.net December & January 2013 Membership Meetings Piney Point........................Monday: December 3, January 7 Algonac...............................Friday: December 7, January 11 Baltimore........................Thursday: December 6, January 10 Guam...........................Thursday: December 22, January 24 Honolulu...........................Friday: December 14, January 18 Houston..........................Monday: December 10, January 14 Jacksonville....................Thursday: December 6, January 10 Joliet.............................Thursday: December 13, January 17 Dispatchers’ Report for Deep Sea September 16, 2012 - October 15, 2012 Port Total Registered All Groups A B C Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS Deck Department 5 10 1 8 9 1 1 14 14 2 1 3 0 0 3 0 0 3 1 1 6 5 2 1 0 0 1 13 6 3 13 9 2 16 6 0 5 22 25 5 1 5 2 0 1 0 0 6 11 2 15 4 1 9 8 0 3 19 4 2 61 11 3 26 10 1 16 99 23 6 30 22 1 21 9 0 10 58 51 2 5 7 2 3 3 1 1 6 10 4 9 3 3 3 2 1 0 15 5 4 8 4 1 8 3 0 0 23 6 2 51 18 1 34 13 0 16 82 33 4 14 14 3 9 14 4 2 34 40 16 19 9 3 12 2 1 3 44 13 3 1 4 0 4 3 0 0 7 8 3 3 4 0 1 2 0 0 4 6 0 10 2 1 9 5 0 5 12 8 4 44 18 3 25 12 2 16 65 27 6 3 1 1 1 0 1 0 5 1 2 23 22 4 20 11 1 7 64 42 8 322 175 34 210 116 13 86 595 334 79 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS Engine Department 2 3 3 2 2 2 0 5 5 1 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 3 0 2 5 2 1 3 2 1 7 9 3 5 3 0 3 3 0 2 18 8 0 2 0 0 2 0 0 0 1 0 0 3 5 1 3 3 1 0 14 6 0 19 10 2 14 9 0 8 31 22 4 17 23 2 19 7 1 8 42 39 4 3 0 0 2 0 1 0 3 3 1 4 3 0 1 0 0 0 7 4 1 6 3 0 1 1 0 0 9 5 0 16 10 4 14 6 0 3 29 21 4 6 10 1 4 4 1 3 19 23 4 9 3 2 4 2 0 1 26 8 5 3 2 0 1 0 0 1 6 3 1 1 4 0 1 1 0 0 1 4 0 2 2 0 0 2 0 1 3 13 1 16 8 1 7 4 1 3 30 15 3 0 1 2 0 1 0 0 2 2 2 16 15 1 7 7 0 5 23 40 10 132 111 21 86 55 9 36 276 233 44 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS Steward Department 1 5 3 2 0 1 1 4 6 4 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 3 2 0 2 3 0 1 6 2 0 5 5 0 8 2 1 5 14 6 0 1 0 1 1 1 0 0 2 1 1 9 3 0 7 1 0 2 18 6 0 26 2 1 8 4 1 3 37 11 2 15 6 1 10 4 0 6 29 13 1 1 2 0 1 1 1 1 1 4 0 6 4 1 3 1 0 0 7 3 2 8 1 2 2 1 1 1 13 3 3 14 6 0 15 1 0 6 33 9 0 8 12 1 10 10 2 6 14 23 1 15 2 3 9 1 0 2 27 6 7 2 1 1 1 0 0 1 4 2 1 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 2 0 0 4 0 0 4 0 0 1 3 0 0 13 4 0 8 4 0 6 31 6 0 1 2 0 1 0 0 0 1 2 0 27 2 1 10 1 0 4 55 6 1 159 59 15 103 35 7 46 301 109 23 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS Entry Department 1 17 19 3 9 7 1 3 19 28 0 2 0 0 1 0 0 0 1 0 0 2 3 0 1 3 0 1 3 8 0 7 1 0 5 0 0 0 12 4 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 0 2 1 7 2 3 5 0 5 4 11 5 18 3 1 4 1 1 4 24 12 2 20 13 2 6 2 1 4 37 21 1 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 2 0 1 0 0 3 0 0 1 6 2 0 4 3 1 1 0 0 0 6 6 4 28 11 2 11 5 1 11 57 23 1 13 17 1 7 5 0 1 34 45 2 13 5 1 3 1 2 4 19 15 0 0 1 0 1 0 0 0 1 2 0 3 3 0 1 1 0 0 9 3 2 1 0 0 1 0 0 3 0 0 2 10 3 2 4 2 4 2 15 4 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 3 20 9 6 13 4 3 13 52 32 25 161 98 22 74 36 13 52 302 218 GRAND TOTAL: 638 506 168 421 280 65 181 1,224 978 364 Mobile.......................Wednesday: December 12, January 16 New Orleans......................Tuesday: December 11, January 15 New York..........................Tuesday: December 4, January 8 Norfolk..........................Thursday: December 6, January 10 Oakland........................Thursday: December 13, January 17 Philadelphia..................Wednesday: December 5, January 9 Port Everglades............Thursday: December 13, January 17 San Juan.........................Thursday: December 6, January 10 St. Louis............................Friday: December 14, January 18 Tacoma.............................Friday: December 21, January 25 Wilmington....Monday: December 17, *Tuesday: January 22 * Wilmington change created by Matrin Luther King Jr. birthday holiday. Each port’s meeting starts at 10:30 a.m. November 2012 11769_November_X.indd 15 Total Shipped All Groups Trip A B C Reliefs Registered on Beach All Groups A B C Seafarers LOG 15 10/30/2012 6:49:47 AM �Inquiring Seafarer Seafarers International Union Directory Michael Sacco, President Augustin Tellez, Executive Vice President David Heindel, Secretary-Treasurer George Tricker, Vice President Contracts Tom Orzechowski, Vice President Lakes and Inland Waters Dean Corgey, Vice President Gulf Coast Nicholas J. Marrone, Vice President West Coast Joseph T. Soresi, Vice President Atlantic Coast Kermett Mangram, Vice President Government Services HEADQUARTERS 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746 (301) 899-0675 ALGONAC 520 St. Clair River Dr., Algonac, MI 48001 (810) 794-4988 ANCHORAGE 721 Sesame St., #1C, Anchorage, AK 99503 (907) 561-4988 BALTIMORE 2315 Essex St., Baltimore, MD 21224 (410) 327-4900 GUAM P.O. Box 3328, Hagatna, Guam 96932 Cliffline Office Ctr. Bldg., Suite 103B 422 West O’Brien Dr., Hagatna, Guam 96910 (671) 477-1350 Editor’s note: This month’s question was answered by Seafarers who were upgrading at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. Question: What do you typically do for the holidays, and/or what are your plans for the upcoming holiday season? James Copeland AB I’m always at sea so I’m never home for the holidays. You have a nice holiday meal, but it’s still a normal 12-hour day. You wouldn’t know it’s a holiday unless someone puts up deco- rations. Sometimes I don’t go home until the spring, so that’s when I open my gifts. Nicole Geideman AB I’m usually at sea. It’s a good time to be on a ship – most people want to be with their families and you get holiday pay. The ship usually does a good job putting out a huge spread during Thanksgiving and Christmas. When you go into a port it’s usually a party anyway. HONOLULU 606 Kalihi St., Honolulu, HI 96819 (808) 845-5222 HOUSTON 1221 Pierce St., Houston, TX 77002 (713) 659-5152 JACKSONVILLE 5100 Belfort Rd., Jacksonville, FL 32256 (904) 281-2622 JOLIET 10 East Clinton St., Joliet, IL 60432 (815) 723-8002 Daniel Bradberry AB When you’re at sea you’re always wish- ing you were at home. On the ship we generally do a big meal. At home, I really just enjoy being with my family. when it falls that year. Casey Pearson SA I’m going to spend time with my family, and that’s pretty much it. I’ll be seeing my niece for the first time – she’s over a year old. I’ll also see my grandparents and my brother, who’s also a Seafarer. Grant Gutter Engineer To me, it’s just another day. You’re at work. We do have a turkey. When I’m at home I usually do Christmas either early or late depending on Debbie Hutchins SA I’m planning to spend it here at Piney Point until December 22, then home. I have spent holidays at sea and it’s not bad. I enjoy the camaraderie more than the food, but the food is good, too. Right now I’m taking chief cook (at the school). I’ll be flying home to Skowhegan, Maine. Michele Laycock Bosun Spend as much time as I can with family. I haven’t seen much of them this year. I’m a heck of an aunt – it’s the best job in the world. Give ’em candy and give ’em back! Pic-From-The-Past MOBILE 1640 Dauphin Island Pkwy, Mobile, AL 36605 (251) 478-0916 NEW ORLEANS 3911 Lapalco Blvd., Harvey, LA 70058 (504) 328-7545 NEW YORK 635 Fourth Ave., Brooklyn, NY 11232 (718) 499-6600 Government Services Division: (718) 499-6600 NORFOLK 115 Third St., Norfolk, VA 23510 (757) 622-1892 OAKLAND 1121 7th St., Oakland, CA 94607 (510) 444-2360 PHILADELPHIA 2604 S. 4 St., Philadelphia, PA 19148 (215) 336-3818 PINEY POINT P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674 (301) 994-0010 PORT EVERGLADES 1221 S. Andrews Ave., Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33316 (954) 522-7984 SANTURCE 1057 Fernandez Juncos Ave., Stop 16 Santurce, PR 00907 (787) 721-4033 ST. LOUIS/ALTON 4581 Gravois Ave., St. Louis, MO 63116 (314) 752-6500 TACOMA 3411 South Union Ave., Tacoma, WA 98409 (253) 272-7774 WILMINGTON 510 N. Broad Ave., Wilmington, CA 90744 (310) 549-4000 This photo was published in the December 28, 1951 edition of the LOG. The accompanying text read in part, “Seafarers who fall ill aboard ship have the assurance of expert long-distance medical diagnosis through the facilities of the International Radio-Medical Center in Rome. The center has been functioning for 17 years. It was founded by Professor Guido Guida (right), a retired Italian naval doctor, who runs the whole works including the radio station, which he owns, at his own expense. There are 40 physicians on the center’s staff…. The center diagnoses illnesses aboard ship and transmits instructions on how to care for the case via an established radio wave band known to all ships.” If anyone has a vintage union-related photograph he or she would like to share with other Seafarers LOG readers, please send it to the Seafarers LOG, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. Photographs will be returned, if so requested. High-resolution digital images may be sent to webmaster@seafarers.org 16 Seafarers LOG 11769_November.indd 16 November 2012 10/25/2012 7:26:12 PM �Welcome Ashore Each month, the Seafarers LOG pays tribute to the SIU members who have devoted their working lives to sailing aboard U.S.-flag vessels on the deep seas, inland waterways or Great Lakes. Listed below are brief biographical sketches of those members who recently retired from the union. The brothers and sisters of the SIU thank those members for a job well done and wish them happiness and good health in the days ahead. DEEP SEA SHERMAN ANDERSON Brother Sherman Anderson, 66, signed on with the Seafarers in 1980. He originally sailed aboard the Oceanic Independence. Brother Anderson shipped in the steward department. He upgraded often at the Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md. Brother Anderson’s most recent trip was on the Cape Intrepid. He lives in Federal Way, Wash. HORACIO ARNOLD Brother Horacio Arnold, 65, joined the Seafarers in 1966 while in New York. He initially sailed aboard the John Tyler. Brother Arnold was born in the Virgin Islands and sailed in the engine department. His most recent ship was the Ponce. He is a resident of Vega Baja, P.R. REHUEL ASCANO Brother Rehuel Ascano, 65, began sailing with the union in 1988. He started in the inland division as a member of the steward department but spent most of his career sailing deep sea. Brother Ascano’s first trip was with Moran Towing of Texas. He upgraded on two occasions at the Piney Point school. Brother Ascano’s most recent ship was the Diamond State. He calls Anthony, N.M., home. GERALD CASSIE Brother Gerald Cassie, 65, donned the SIU colors in 1998 while in the port of Wilmington, Calif. The deck department member’s first trip was on the USNS Bowditch; his most recent was aboard the Innovator. Brother Cassie makes his home in Spokane, Wash. MIRIAM CHACON Sister Miriam Chacon, 67, joined the union in 1995. She was initially employed with Delta Queen Steamboat Company. Sister Chacon worked in the steward department. She attended classes frequently at the maritime training center in Piney Point, Md. Sister Chacon most recently shipped aboard the USNS Bob Hope. She resides in Kenner, La. November 2012 11769_November.indd 17 JOSEPH LEEKS Brother Joseph Leeks, 67, became an SIU member in 1998. He primarily sailed on vessels operated by Maersk Line, Limited which included the USNS Sisler and Franklin J. Phillips. Brother Leeks was born in New Orleans and sailed in the deck department. In 2001 and 2003, he enhanced his skills at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Leeks settled in Pahrump, Nev. GINCEZAR RELOJO Brother Gincezar Relojo, 67, was born in the Philippines. He began sailing with the SIU in 1987. Brother Relojo first worked on the USNS Dutton. He upgraded on two occasions at the Seafarersaffiliated school in Piney Point, Md. Brother Relojo sailed as a member of both the deck and steward departments. His most recent voyage was aboard the Charger. Brother Relojo is a resident of Morgan Hill, Calif. JOSE VAZQUEZ GOMEZ Brother Jose Vazquez Gomez, 59, started sailing with the union in 1974. The engine department member was born in Bronx, N.Y. Brother Vazquez Gomez’s earliest trip was on a Sea Tankers vessel. He often took advantage of educational opportunities at the Piney Point school. Brother Vazquez Gomez’s most recent ship was the Horizon Discovery. He lives in Palm Coast, Fla. JOHN ZIMMERMAN Brother John Zimmerman, 65, signed on with the Seafarers in 1978, initially sailing aboard the Mohawk. The deck department member enhanced his skills in 2001 at the union-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. Brother Zimmerman’s most recent trip to sea was on the Trader. He calls Honolulu home. INLAND DALE MCKELVIE Brother Dale McKelvie, 60, donned the SIU colors in 1980 while in Jacksonville, Fla. He originally shipped with Z Tug Management Corporation as a member of the deck department. Brother McKelvie upgraded in 2001 at the Paul Hall Center. Prior to his retirement, he worked aboard the Manhattan Island. Brother McKelvie resides in Temple Terrace, Fla. can Sea Ocean; his most recent was the American Republic. He upgraded on numerous occasions at the Piney Point school. Brother Cameron settled in Holiday, Fla. HERMAN MONINGKA RICHARD PIPER Brother Herman Moningka, 62, became a union member in 1994 while in Wilmington, Calif. A native of Indonesia, Brother Moningka enhanced his seafaring abilities at the maritime training center in Piney Point. The deck department member first sailed on the Spirit. Brother Moningka last shipped with Crowley Towing & Transportation of Wilmington. He makes his home in Montclair, Calif. Brother Richard Piper, 58, is a Michigan native who joined the SIU in 1978, initially working with Inland Lakes Management. Brother Piper was a member of the engine department. His most recent trip was on the Sam Laud. Brother Piper calls Alpena, Mich., home. GREAT LAKES DAVID CAMERON Brother David Cameron, 65, began sailing with the union in 1968. He was born in Michigan and worked in the engine department. Brother Cameron’s first ship was the Ameri- NATIONAL MARITIME UNION GEORGE DORSEY Brother George Dorsey, 65, started his NMU career in 1969. He was born in Maryland and shipped in the deck department. Brother Dorsey most recently sailed aboard the Admiral William Callaghan. He is a resident of Baltimore. RONALD PAGE Brother Ronald Page, 64, started his SIU career in 2001 as the NMU was merging into the Seafarers. The deck department member primarily worked with Marine Personnel & Provisioning aboard the St. Louis Express. In 2001, Brother Page attended classes at the Piney Point school. He continues to reside in his native state, Georgia. DARRYL POWELL Brother Darryl Powell, 65, became an NMU member in 1971. The Maryland native last sailed on the American Pioneer. Brother Powell lives in Baltimore. WAYNE RODERICK Brother Wayne Roderick, 55, was born in Massachusetts. He joined the NMU in 1979. Brother Roderick’s most recent vessel was the Keystone Rhode Island. He resides in New Bedford, Mass. This Month In SIU History Editor’s note: The following items are reprinted from previous editions of the Seafarers LOG. 1950 An order giving sweeping control of the nation’s seamen, waterfronts and ships to the Coast Guard was issued last week by President Harry S. Truman, under authority embodied in the new security law enacted by Congress last month. The law allows the president to take such action if in his opinion the security of the United States is endangered by subversive activity. Under the new order, the Coast Guard now has the power to search and control the movement of all U.S. ships and is also empowered to deny employment to seamen and officers who have not taken out the new “validated papers.” Under this provision, the Coast Guard Commandant is authorized to deny the new papers to persons known to be subversives. He is also allowed to deny papers in cases where he “is satisfied that the character and habits of life of such persons are such as to authorize the belief that the presence of the individual on board would be inimical to the security of the United States.” 1965 Former Seafarer Donn Pearce, whose first novel, “Cool Hand Luke,” recently received critical acclaim from the New York Times Book Review, is now on his way to Hollywood to begin work as a scriptwriter. Just a few days after the publication of “Cool Hand Luke,” executive movie producer Gordon Carroll was scanning an edition of the Publisher’s Weekly, saw Pearce’s book mentioned and read it. The company plans a production in the near future. “Cool Hand Luke” is the story of a real man, who was the leader among his fellow prisoners. Luke has youth, vitality, a love for hard work, energy, skill and a talent for the banjo – everything the average person would need to become a success in the conventional sense. But he chooses to buck society and social laws and this conviction is the crux of the novel. Author Pearce joined the SIU in 1955. First shipping out deckside as an OS and then as a member of the steward’s department, he later switched over to AB. 1970 With the stroke of the presidential pen, the Merchant Marine Act of 1970 became the law of the land. The act, incorporating many of the provisions backed by the Seafarers International Union, had passed both Houses of Congress by substantial majorities before it was sent to President Richard M. Nixon for signature. In particular, the bill will benefit SIU men by means of a provision to construct 300 new ships for the foreign trade in the next 10 years. The new ships will mean more jobs for Seafarers in the years ahead. In addition, the provisions on construction subsidies will include ships of the bulk carrier fleet, which were excluded under the 1936 Merchant Act, which narrowed assistance down to 14 shipping lines. Under the 1970 bill, all shippers in the foreign trade will be eligible for subsidy. 1982 An agreement signed by the U.S. Departments of Energy and Transportation earlier this month will put American seamen back to work by rectifying longterm abuses in the Special Petroleum Reserve (SPR) program. After much prodding from the SIU, Transportation Secretary Drew Lewis and outgoing Energy Secretary James Edwards agreed the Energy Department would abide by the terms of the Cargo Preference Act of 1954. This law requires that at least 50 percent of all government-generated cargo be carried on American-flag vessels. The Energy Department has consistently failed to meet those standards when filling the SPR. As a result of this and the general slump in the economy, as many as 28 SIU-contracted tankers now sit idle for lack of cargo. It is expected that a number of these ships will come out of layup to carry SPR oil. Seafarers LOG 17 10/25/2012 7:26:14 PM �Final Departures DEEP SEA MACARIO CAAMPUED Pensioner Macario Caampued, 90, passed away May 15. Brother Caampued was born in Manila, Philippines. He started sailing with the SIU in 1957 in the port of New York. Brother Caampued initially shipped on the Steel Direct. He worked in the steward department. Brother Caampued’s last voyage was aboard the Mariner. He began collecting his retirement compensation in 1984. Brother Caampued lived in the Philippines, in Pangasinan. DEVAUGHN HARRISON Pensioner Devaugh Harrison, 83, passed away June 1. Brother Harrison first donned the SIU colors in 1947. His earliest trip was on the City of Alma. Brother Harrison was born in Alabama. The deck department member most recently worked aboard the Dodge Island. Brother Harrison went on pension in 1982. He was a resident of Saraland, Ala. tinued to make his home in Rhode Island. THOMAS KREIS Pensioner Thomas Kreis, 70, passed away May 3. Brother Kreis joined the SIU in 1969 in Mobile, Ala. His earliest voyage was aboard the Windjammer Polly. Brother Kreis was a steward department member. His final trip was on the Liberty Sea. Brother Kreis became a pensioner in 2004. He was born in Alabama but settled in Sarasota, Fla. FREDERICK MAYER Pensioner Frederick Mayer, 79, died April 16. Brother Mayer started sailing with the union in 1960. His first trip to sea was aboard the Sampan Knot. Brother Mayer sailed in the deck department. He last worked on the China Sea. Brother Mayer went on pension in 2004. He was a resident of Seattle. FRANK TIMMONS Pensioner Frank Timmons, 84, passed away June 24. Born in Brooklyn, N.Y., Brother Timmons first donned the SIU colors in 1953. He was a member of the deck department. Brother Timmons sailed aboard vessels operated by CSX Lines including the Afoundria and Freedom. In 1991, he began receiving his retirement compensation. Brother Timmons settled in Des Moines, Wash. INLAND JOHN FRANKLIN Pensioner Joseph Miller, 77, passed away June 13. Brother Miller was a New York native. He first donned the SIU colors in 1961. Brother Miller originally sailed aboard the Fairland. The steward department member last shipped on the OMI Courier. Brother Miller retired in 1998 and lived in Jacksonville, Fla. Pensioner John Franklin, 86, died May 28. Brother Franklin was a Florida native. He joined the SIU in 1976. Brother Franklin primarily shipped with Allied Transportation Company. The steward department member became a pensioner in 1993. Brother Franklin lived in Norfolk, Va. BOBBY RIDDICK STANLEY GUIDRY JOSEPH MILLER Pensioner Victor Hernandez, 89, died June 8. Brother Hernandez joined the union in 1970 while in New Orleans. He was first employed on the Steel Maker. Brother Hernandez was born in Central America and sailed as a deck department member. Prior to his retirement in 1988, he worked on the Ambassador. Brother Hernandez resided in Honduras. Pensioner Bobby Riddick, 66, died May 15. Brother Riddick was born in Virginia. He began sailing with the union in 1968 while in the port of New York. Brother Riddick worked in the deck department of both the deep sea and inland divisions. His earliest trip was on the Producer. Brother Riddick’s final ship was the Manhattan Island. He started collecting his pension in 2002. Brother Riddick called Norfolk, Va., home. Pensioner Stanley Guidry, 87, passed away May 16. Brother Guidry was born in Louisiana. He retired in 1987 and called Breaux Bridge, La., home. MIGUEL HIDALGO WILFRED SCALES Brother David Ledeaux, 68, passed away June 8. He started sailing with the SIU in 2004. Brother Ledeaux was born in Jefferson, Texas. He mainly worked aboard vessels operated by G&H Towing. Brother Ledeaux was a resident of Galveston, Texas. VICTOR HERNANDEZ Pensioner Miguel Hidalgo, 78, passed away May 27. Brother Hidalgo was born in California. He began his seafaring career in 1978 while in the port of San Francisco. He originally shipped aboard the Santa Maria and primarily sailed in the steward department. Brother Hidalgo’s final ship was the Cape Girardeau. He retired in 2002 and called San Francisco home. CHESTER IANNOLI Pensioner Chester Iannoli, 92, died June 16. Brother Iannoli became a Seafarer in 1947 while in New York. His first vessel was the Choctaw; his last, the Calmar. Brother Iannoli, who sailed in the deck department, was born in Woonsocket, R.I. He started receiving his pension in 1975 and con- 18 Seafarers LOG 11769_November.indd 18 Brother Wilfred Scales, 54, passed away Feb. 26. He joined the SIU ranks in 1986. Brother Scales was born in Wailuku, Hawaii. The steward department member’s first trip to sea was aboard the USNS Assurance. Brother Scales last shipped on the Manoa. He continued to make his home in Hawaii. JACK SINGLETARY Pensioner Jack Singletary, 74, died June 8. Brother Singletary became a Seafarer in 1967. He initially shipped aboard the Burbank Victory. Brother Singletary was born in Klamath, Ore. He sailed in the engine department. Brother Singletary’s final ship was the Cape Trinity. He went on pension in 1999. Brother Singletary was a resident of Bacliff, Texas. EDWARD KOKOSZKA Pensioner Edward Kokoszka, 86, died June 18. Brother Kokoszka became a union member in 1956 while in Baltimore. He sailed with Moran Towing of Maryland for the duration of his career. Brother Kokoszka went on pension in 1987. He continued to reside in his native state, Maryland. DAVID LEDEAUX JOCELYN LEE Pensioner Jocelyn Lee, 89, died April 17. Brother Lee was a native of New York. He joined the union in 1943. Brother Lee was last employed with G&H Towing as a member of the engine department. He started collecting his pension in 1987 and made his home in Houston. JOSEPH MUSCATO Pensioner Joseph Muscato, 91, passed away April 29. Brother Muscato began his seafaring career in 1977. He sailed in both the inland and deep sea divisions. Brother Muscato’s first ship was the Montpelier Victory. Before his retirement in 1988, he worked with Crowley Towing & Transportation of Jacksonville. Brother Muscato was born in New York but called Jacksonville, Fla., home. ROBERT LAMB SALVATORE NOTARILE EPIFANIO MANDRY-ARREGUI Pensioner Salvatore Notarile, 83, died May 28. Brother Notarile first donned the SIU colors in 1983. He was employed with New York Cross Harbor Railroad. The deck department member was born in Brooklyn, N.Y. Brother Notarile went on pension in 1990. He lived in Middletown Township, N.J. JOHN PIRES Pensioner John Pires, 86, passed away May 10. Brother Pires was born in Brava, Cape Verde Island. The steward department member retired in 1968. Brother Pires settled in New Bedford, Mass. GORDON THOMAS Pensioner Gordon Thomas, 88, died May 13. Brother Thomas became an SIU member in 1971. He primarily shipped with Z Tug Management Corporation. Brother Thomas worked in the deck department. He was a Florida native but made his home in Walnut Creek, Calif. Brother Thomas started collecting his pension in 1985. JAMES WILLEY Pensioner James Willey, 72, passed away June 15. Brother Willey joined the SIU ranks in 1969. He initially sailed with Virginia Pilot Corporation as a member of the steward department. Brother Willey was born in Hood River, Ore. He most recently shipped on the Overseas Joyce. Brother Willey became a pensioner in 2005. He continued to reside in his native state. GREAT LAKES RICHARD BELLANT Pensioner Richard Bellant, 66, died May 13. Brother Bellant, a Michigan native, began sailing with the union in 1970. His first ship was the Nicolet; his last, the Indiana Harbor. Brother Bellant sailed in the steward department. He went on pension in 2010 and settled in Lakeland, Fla. Pensioner Robert Lamb, 85, passed away Feb. 18. Brother Lamb was born in Norfolk, Va. He became a pensioner in 1967 and called Orlando, Fla., home. Pensioner Epifanio MandryArregui, 87, died Feb. 9. Brother Mandry-Arregui was a native of Puerto Rico. He began receiving his pension in 1984. Brother Mandry-Arregui resided in Juana Diaz, P.R. PORFIRIO ORDONEZ Pensioner Porfirio Ordonez, 79, passed away April 18. Brother Ordonez was born in Honduras. He retired in 1989 and continued to live in Honduras. RENFRO PITTMAN Pensioner Renfro Pittman, 84, died Feb. 18. Brother Pittman was an Earle, Ark., Native. He started collecting his pension in 1967 and settled in Metairie, La. GENE VAN KLINKEN Pensioner Gene Van Klinken, 77, passed away March 6. Brother Van Klinken was born in Washington State. He went on pension in 1990. Brother Van Klinken was a resident of San Francisco. EDWARD WILLIAMS Pensioner Edward Williams, 83, died Feb. 25. Born in Panama, Brother Williams became a pensioner in 1995. He lived in Orlando, Fla. Name Age DOD Alston, Richard 87 Brown, Edward 83 Calix, Fernando 90 Connors, Robert 82 Correira, Henry 87 Ingram, Willie 87 Inigo, Luis 84 Jones, Verlin 85 Moss, Fred 87 Nettles, Ralph 93 Pappadoulis, George 82 Perez, Cesar 74 Perucci, Jeano 96 Phillips, Alfred 85 March 26 Jan. 28 March 12 March 6 Feb. 10 Jan. 30 Feb. 21 Feb. 22 Feb. 29 March 27 Feb. 28 April 8 Feb. 16 Feb. 22 Editor’s note: The following brothers, all former members of the National Maritime Union (NMU), have passed away. LESTER ARMSTEAD Pensioner Lester Armstead, 97, died Feb. 26. The Brooklyn-born mariner went on pension in 1969. He made his home in Clearwater, Fla. November 2012 10/25/2012 7:26:17 PM �Digest of Shipboard Union Meetings BURNS HARBOR (American Steamship), August 27 – Chairman Ben J. Skuban, Secretary Dariusz T. Czepczynski, Educational Director Richard Fredrick, Deck Delegate Larry Skowronek. Chairman reminded crew of dates available to vote in union election and passed out 401K packages. He talked about the difference between Money Purchase Pension Plan and 401K investments. He encouraged mariners to have documents up-to-date before registering for work at the union hall. Educational director encouraged members to upgrade their skills at the union-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Recommendation was made to increase optical benefits and check in to getting faster internet. HORIZON TACOMA (Horizon Lines), August 5 – Chairman Darryl G. Smith, Secretary Almarca Martinez Arriola, Educational Director Jonathan A. Stratton, Deck Delegate Dennis Gaffney, Engine Delegate Dennis Riley. Chairman announced payoff on August 6 and reminded departing crew members to clean their respective rooms. He also reported the Horizon Tacoma was number one in safety for the month of June. Secretary thanked crew for helping keep ship clean. Educational director reminded mariners to go to Paul Hall Center in Piney Point for upgrading, and also to check expiration dates and renew documents on time. Treasurer reported $1,844 in ship’s fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Request was made to purchase new toaster and microwave for crew lounge. Suggestion was made to reduce time required in order to file for vacation pay. Next ports: Tacoma,Wash., Anchorage, Alaska and Kodiak, Alaska. INTREPID (Maersk Line, Limited), August 19 – Chairman Rufino J. Giray, Secretary Ronald J. Fluker, Educational Director Eeric L. White, Deck Delegate Charles E. Turner, Engine Delegate Ronald Celious, Steward Delegate Eduardo S, Munizaga. Chairman thanked crew members for safe voyage and announced upcoming payoff. Secretary thanked everyone for keeping public areas neat and good cooperation all around. Educational director encouraged mariners to upgrade at union-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Questions were raised pertaining to STCW requirements. JEAN ANNE (Interocean American Shipping), August November 2012 11769_November.indd 19 The Seafarers LOG attempts to print as many digests of union shipboard minutes as possible. On occasion, because of space limitations, some will be omitted. Ships’ minutes first are reviewed by the union’s contract department. Those issues requiring attention or resolution are addressed by the union upon receipt of the ships’ minutes. The minutes are then forwarded to the Seafarers LOG for publication. “Captain Cook” (Daniel Severino) handles the grill as DEU Andrew Bell looks on. From left: Recertified Steward Chris Amigable, Captain Daniel Severino, AB Andrew Donaldson, OMU Sotero Berame, AB Asker Shaibi, Bosun Michael Hester, DEU Faissal Alamri, AB Mohsen Said Celebrating Labor Day Aboard Midnight Sun “The captain did it again!” So reports Chief Cook Sal Ahmed, who definitely wasn’t complaining about the efforts of Midnight Sun vessel master Capt. Daniel Severino. The captain gave the galley gang a break on Labor Day, taking over food prep for a shipboard holiday cookout. “We nicknamed him Captain Cook,” Ahmed noted in a letter to the LOG. “He did a great job, as always – he has a love of cooking. We had a great time and we appreciated his help.” The luncheon menu featured a wide range of international cuisine along with traditional North American dishes. Ahmed added that life is good aboard the TOTE-operated Midnight Sun. “We really enjoy being crew members aboard this vessel and being close to the home port of Tacoma (Wash.),” he wrote. “Our great thanks go to the senior officials of the SIU for offering us a great opportunity as merchant mariners.” Chief Cook Sal Ahmed keeps a watchful eye on menu items for the Midnight Sun’s holiday cookout. 26 – Chairman Daniel J. Davenport, Secretary Samuel P. Sinclair, Educational Director Martin M. Hamilton, Deck Delegate Billy Cooley, Steward Delegate Ingra Maddox. Chairman discussed EED TWIC and tour of duty requirements. He urged crew to keep documents current and renew early so they won’t lose the eligibility to sail. Secretary reported good morale. Members would like a union representative to visit more often. Treasurer thanked steward department for providing diverse meals. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Request was made for union physicals to be taken at clinics near place of residence for those members that live long distances from union halls. (Editor’s note: See related story on page 5.) JOHN BOLAND (American Steamship), August 12 – Chairman Jaber M. Jaber, Secretary Mohamed Algalham, Educational Director Ibrahim Yahya. Bosun talked about new contract and advised Seafarers to take advantage of Piney Point school. He also urged everyone to keep documents current, don’t fall behind on dues, and contribute to Maritime Defense League (MDL). No beefs or disputed OT reported, but deck delegate raised questions about jurisdiction. New radio and tools were requested. MIDNIGHT SUN (Interocean American Shipping), August 19 – Chairman Michael R. Hester, Secretary Christopher B. Amigable, Educational Director Charles L. Wharton. Chairman reported good voyage and good crew. Educational director suggested all mariners upgrade at Paul Hall Center, and he let them know new washing machine has been installed. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Bosun read president’s report from most recent Seafarers LOG and went over highlights. Vote of thanks to the steward department for a job well done. Next ports: Anchorage, Alaska and Tacoma, Wash. ST. CLAIR (American Steamship), August 26 – Chairman Mohamed H. Mohamed, Secretary Juan R. Palacios, Educational Director Donald R. Jaegle, Deck Delegate Doyle Ling. Chairman thanked all crew members for being professional and following safe work procedures. He reported that Apprentice Randy Harrel did an excellent job in all departments, especially the engine area. Educational director updated crew on new EED TWIC and BST training renewal. He also reviewed ASC 2012 onboard conveyor safety training program and vessel tours. Mariners were urged to upgrade at union-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Special thanks to galley gang for a job well done. KEN BOOTH SR. (American Steamship), September 16 – Chairman John D. Cedeno Jr. Secretary Steven Eberspacher, Educational Director Tousif Ahmed. Chairman reviewed policies covering smoking and electronics, respectively, also explained shipping rules for time on vessels according to A, B and C seniority. He encouraged members to donate to SPAD and MDL. Secretary asked crew to clean out linen tray in dryer, put condiments back after use and cover furniture before sitting with dirty clothes on. Educational director reminded fellow members about importance of upgrading at Paul Hall Center in Piney Point and urged everyone to keep all paperwork and shipping documents up-to-date: clinic card, medical forms, TWIC, passport, etc. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Chairman encouraged deck gang to utilize fall-protection gear when rinsing cargo holds. Conveyor man asked crew to report any leaks of hydraulic oil when passing through machinery areas. Steward reminded members to leave fresh linen in rooms for reliefs and to keep shoes off chairs. Next ports: Duluth, Minn., Gary, Ind. and Two Harbors, Minn. LIBERTY PROMISE (Liberty Maritime), September 2 – Chairman Marco A. Galliano, Secretary Robert Davis, Deck Delegate Osnane Ariola, Engine Delegate Teodoro Norales, Steward Delegate Rose Ward. Chairman requested information about new contract and rest period for watchstanders on day of arrival. Secretary urged crew members to check white board (communication board) for updates. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Steward department was thanked for doing a great job. Next ports: Beaumont, Texas, Houston, Jacksonville, Fla., and Charleston, S.C. MAERSK KENTUCKY (Maersk Line, Limited), September 2 – Chairman William M. Richards, Secretary John L. Foster, Educational Director Troy Ancar. Chairman encouraged members to upgrade at Paul Hall Center and contribute to SPAD. Treasurer stated $2,100 in ship’s fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew members would like a new computer and microwave for crew dayroom. All hands expressed appreciation to steward department. Seafarers LOG 19 10/25/2012 7:26:19 PM �Retired Mariner Reflects on World War II Experiences Continued from Page 13 deadly devices. Shortly after, we could hear explosions in the distance. I spent my first Christmas away from home in Tamara Bay, a watering station near Hollandia, New Guinea. My ship was the only vessel in the little port that lonely Christmas Eve. It was one of the few times I was homesick during my wartime travels. I went ashore with Vinnie and we cut a green branch off a tropical tree. We hung it in the mess hall and decorated it with pieces of colored paper. That night, some of us sang Christmas carols. We were close to the equator. It was hot and humid. It didn’t feel like Christmas to me, a teenager from the northern latitudes of New York City. The next day we sailed northwest to the island of Morotai and I saw my first Japanese plane. We were at battle stations and heard that a Japanese reconnaissance plane flew over the island each day. It was not explained why it was allowed to do this without any interception. My last foreign port of call in World War II was Buckner Bay, Okinawa. I discovered my two older brothers, Marine enlisted men, were on the island and I tried to make contact with them. Unfortunately, due to a pending typhoon, my ship had to leave port to ride out the storm at sea. When I returned three days later, the fleet post office and the port facilities had been destroyed and I was not able to locate the boys. The three of us eventually met again at home in New York City at Christmastime 1945. We all went over to the Holy Trinity Catholic Church on West 82nd Street with our Mom and gave thanks for our safe return home. One can only imagine my disappointment when I learned I would not share in the “GI Bill of Rights.” I sincerely believed I was part of the United States military forces and would enjoy the benefits given to all veterans at the end of the war. I didn’t receive recognition as a WWII veteran until January 1988 – 43 years later! There were no retroactive benefits. The war did not officially end until December 1946. By then I had switched to the engine department and worked up to fireman\water tender and oiler. I wanted to go back to school but couldn’t afford it. I was envious of my teenaged friends who entered the military after the end of hostilities, August 15, 1945 and never left the States. They were entitled to all of the benefits of the GI Bill of Rights. Near the end of WWII on August 22, 1946, I had been issued a Certificate of Continuous Service. It stated that based on my wartime service to my country I was exempt from the Selective Service System and could not be drafted. Later, in 1950, shortly after I had returned from working for the Army in Korea, I was summoned to my local draft board and told the exemption only applied to the Selective Service Act of 1940. This was 1950, it was a new draft law, and I should ready myself for induction. I took the physical again and was declared fit for duty. There was no mention of a spine problem. Since I was married and expecting my first child, I applied for and received an exemption based on my family obligations. President Roosevelt had declared that he wanted us, the WWII U.S. Merchant Marine veterans, to be included in the GI Bill of Rights program. Unfortunately, his untimely death did not allow him to follow through with his good intentions. In 1949, I had written to Franklin Delano Roosevelt, Jr. who by then was my congressman. He said bills had been introduced in Congress to give benefits to WWII merchant seamen veterans. Nothing came of this either. I have often wondered how different my life would have been if I’d had the advantage of the education benefits of the GI Bill. I did my share in the fight against America’s enemies. I realize I didn’t do anything heroic, but I did put my life in jeopardy for the sake of my country. I believe the United States government owes a lot to the kids who put their lives on the line in WWII. Without any doubt, the merchant seamen of the war years deserve the same recognition as other WWII Veterans. It is now 67 years since the end of WWII; I cannot believe or understand why our elected officials are still ignoring our country’s obligations to a bunch of kids who were there when our country needed them the most. By percentage, the merchant marine casualties in World War II were greater than any other branch of military service. Time is of the essence. We are dying at the rate of over a thousand a day. Soon there won’t be any of us here to say, “Thank you for remembering us.” Ed Woods Atlanta, Georgia August 2012 Some of Woods’ wartime medals and documentation are shown here. WWII mariners didn’t receive veterans’ status until 1988, and they aren’t included in the GI Bill of Rights. Know Your Rights FINANCIAL REPORTS. The Constitution of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU makes specific provision for safeguarding the membership’s money and union finances. The constitution requires a detailed audit by certified public accountants every year, which is to be submitted to the membership by the secretary-treasurer. A yearly finance committee of rank-and-file members, elected by the membership, each year examines the finances of the union and reports fully their findings and recommendations. Members of this committee may make dissenting reports, specific recommendations and separate findings. TRUST FUNDS. All trust funds of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU are administered in accordance with the provisions of various trust fund agreements. All these agreements specify that the trustees in charge of these funds shall equally consist of union and management representatives and their alternates. All expenditures and disbursements of trust funds are made only upon approval by a majority of the trustees. All trust fund financial records are available at the headquarters of the various trust funds. SHIPPING RIGHTS. A member’s shipping rights and seniority are protected exclusively by contracts between the union and the employers. Members should get to know their shipping rights. Copies of these contracts are posted and available in all union halls. If members believe there have been violations of their shipping or seniority rights as contained in the contracts between the union and the employers, they should notify the Seafarers Appeals Board by certified mail, return receipt requested. The 20 Seafarers LOG 11769_November.indd 20 proper address for this is: Augustin Tellez, Chairman Seafarers Appeals Board 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 Full copies of contracts as referred to are available to members at all times, either by writing directly to the union or to the Seafarers Appeals Board. CONTRACTS. Copies of all SIU contracts are available in all SIU halls. These contracts specify the wages and conditions under which an SIU member works and lives aboard a ship or boat. Members should know their contract rights, as well as their obligations, such as filing for overtime (OT) on the proper sheets and in the proper manner. If, at any time, a member believes that an SIU patrolman or other union official fails to protect their contractual rights properly, he or she should contact the nearest SIU port agent. EDITORIAL POLICY — THE SEAFARERS LOG. The Seafarers LOG traditionally has refrained from publishing any article serving the political purposes of any individual in the union, officer or member. It also has refrained from publishing articles deemed harmful to the union or its collective membership. This established policy has been reaffirmed by membership action at the September 1960 meetings in all constitutional ports. The responsibility for Sea­farers LOG policy is vested in an editorial board which consists of the executive board of the union. The executive board may delegate, from among its ranks, one individual to carry out this responsibility. PAYMENT OF MONIES. No monies are to be paid to anyone in any official capacity in the SIU unless an official union receipt is given for same. Under no circumstances should any member pay any money for any reason unless he is given such receipt. In the event anyone attempts to require any such payment be made without supplying a receipt, or if a member is required to make a payment and is given an official receipt, but feels that he or she should not have been required to make such payment, this should immediately be reported to union headquarters. CONSTITUTIONAL RIGHTS AND OBLIGATIONS. Copies of the SIU Constitution are available in all union halls. All members should obtain copies of this constitution so as to familiarize themselves with its contents. Any time a member feels any other member or officer is attempting to deprive him or her of any constitutional right or obligation by any methods, such as dealing with charges, trials, etc., as well as all other details, the member so affected should immediately notify headquarters. EQUAL RIGHTS. All members are guaranteed equal rights in employment and as members of the SIU. These rights are clearly set forth in the SIU Constitution and in the contracts which the union has negotiated with the employers. Conse­quently, no member may be discriminated against because of race, creed, color, sex, national or geographic origin. If any member feels that he or she is denied the equal rights to which he or she is entitled, the member should notify union headquarters. SEAFARERS POLITICAL ACTIVITY DONATION (SPAD). SPAD is a separate segregated fund. Its proceeds are used to further its objects and purposes including, but not limited to, furthering the political, social and economic interests of maritime workers, the preservation and furthering of the American merchant marine with improved employment opportunities for seamen and boatmen and the advancement of trade union concepts. In connection with such objects, SPAD supports and contributes to political candidates for elective office. All contributions are voluntary. No contribution may be solicited or received because of force, job discrimination, financial reprisal, or threat of such conduct, or as a condition of membership in the union or of employment. If a contribution is made by reason of the above improper conduct, the member should notify the Seafarers International Union or SPAD by certified mail within 30 days of the contribution for investigation and appropriate action and refund, if involuntary. A member should support SPAD to protect and further his or her economic, political and social interests, and American trade union concepts. NOTIFYING THE UNION — If at any time a member feels that any of the above rights have been violated, or that he or she has been denied the constitutional right of access to union records or information, the member should immediately notify SIU President Michael Sacco at headquarters by certified mail, return receipt requested. The address is: Michael Sacco, President Seafarers International Union 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746. November 2012 10/25/2012 7:26:21 PM �Paul Hall Center Upgrading Course Information The following is the schedule of courses at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md., for the next few months. All programs are geared toward improving the job skills of Seafarers and to promoting the American maritime industry. Please note that this schedule may change to reflect the needs of the membership, the maritime industry and—in times of conflict—the nation’s security. Students attending any of these classes should check in the Saturday before their course’s start date. The courses listed here will begin promptly on the morning of the start dates. For classes ending on a Friday, departure reservations should be made for Saturday. Seafarers who have any questions regarding the upgrading courses offered at the Paul Hall Center may call the admissions office at (301) 994-0010. Hands On Steward Department Training Title of Start Date of Course Date Completion Deck Department ECDIS December 8 December 14 GMDSS November 24 December 7 Lifeboatman/Water Survival November 11 November 23 December 8 December 21 Radar Renewal (One day) November 6 November 6 Chief Cook Johnny Sawyer puts the finishing touches on a pot of chicken soup during a steward department upgrading class. Practical training is an important part of many of the classes upgraders and unlicensed apprentices take at the union-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. December 7 NMC Website Provides Useful Mariner Resources Engine Department Basic Auxiliary Plant Operations (BAPO) November 10 Welding November 24 December 14 Steward Department Chief Cook These modules start every other week. The next class will begin Monday, November 5. Galley Operations/Advanced Galley Operations These modules start every Monday. The next classes will start Monday, November 5. Safety Courses Advanced Firefighting December 1 December 7 Basic Firefighting/STCW December 1 December 7 Government Vessels November 24 November 30 Medical Care Provider Tank PIC Barge December 8 December 14 December 8 December 14 UPGRADING APPLICATION Name_________________________________________________________________________ Address_______________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________ Telephone (Home)_________________________ (Cell)_________________________ Date of Birth___________________________________________________________________ Deep Sea Member o Lakes Member o Inland Waters Member o If the following information is not filled out completely, your application will not be processed. Social Security #_______________________ Book #__________________________________ Seniority_____________________________ Department_____________________________ Home Port____________________________________________________________________ E-mail_______________________________________________________________________ Endorsement(s) or License(s) now held_____________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________ Are you a graduate of the SHLSS/PHC trainee program? o Yes o No If yes, class #___________________________________________________________________ Have you attended any SHLSS/PHC upgrading courses? o Yes o No If yes, course(s) taken____________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________ With this application, COPIES of the following must be sent: One hundred and twenty-five (125) days seatime for the previous year, one day in the last six months prior to the date your class starts, USMMD (z-card) front and back or relevant pages of merchant mariner credential, front page of your union book indicating your department and seniority, qualifying seatime for the course if it is Coast Guard tested, 1995 STCW Certificate, valid SHBP Clinic Card and TWIC. November 2012 11769_November_X.indd 21 The National Maritime Center (NMC), the licensing authority for the U.S. Coast Guard, offers a comprehensive website covering mariner credentialing, medical guidelines and much more. The site features a wide range of applications and forms, deck- and engine-department exam information, lists of Coast Guard-approved courses and more. Seafarers are encouraged to check out the site at:http://www.uscg.mil/nmc/ Mariners may call the NMC at 1-888-IASKNMC (1-888-427-5662). Operational hours are 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. EST, Monday through Friday. (The NMC is closed for all federal holidays.) Various email forms also are available through the NMC website. Important Notice for Students At SIU-Affiliated Paul Hall Center Students who have registered for classes at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, but later discover - for whatever reason - that they can’t attend, should inform the admissions department immediately so arrangements can be made to have other students take their places. COURSE ____________________________ START DATE _______________ DATE OF COMPLETION _______________________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________________ LAST VESSEL: ___________________________________ Rating: ____________________ Date On: _______________________________ Date Off:____________________________ SIGNATURE ____________________________________ DATE______________________ NOTE: Transportation will be paid in accordance with the scheduling letter only if you present original receipts and successfully complete the course. If you have any questions, contact your port agent before departing for Piney Point. Not all classes are reimbursable.Return completed application to: Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education Admissions Office, P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674-0075; or fax to (301) 994-2189. The Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education is a private, non-profit, equal opportunity institution and admits students, who are otherwise qualified, of any race, nationality or sex. The school complies with applicable laws with regard to admission, access or treatment of students in its programs or activities. 11/12 Seafarers LOG 21 10/30/2012 6:49:49 AM �Paul Hall Center Classes Unlicensed Apprentice Water Survival Class #764 – The following Phase I unlicensed apprentices (above, in alphabetical order) graduated from this course Sept. 28: Jarvis Atkins, Robert Bell Jr., Nancy Bestwick, Christopher Brindley, James DeMarco, Sean Foote, Joshua Freeland, Jasmine Garrett, Jacob Gaskill, Sonika Jack, Raymond Martinez, Benjamin Rodrigues, Russell Durham, Mario Standberry, Christopher VanHoose and John Zotti. Class Instructor Ben Cusic is at the far left. Water Survival – Five upgraders finished their requirements in this course Sept. 28. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Bryan Benak, Kevin Lewis, Michael Murner, Mana Muhsen and Leanne Smith. Pumpman – Ten upgraders completed their requirements in this course Sept. 21. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Ashley Carmichael, Juan Castillo, Archie Eldridge Jr., Bryan Fletcher, Thomas Hawks, Braden Horne, Melvin Ratcliff Jr., Reylan Tendido, David Turley and Joshua Zelinsky.Class Instructor Jim Shaffer is at the far left. Machinist – Ten upgraders completed their requirements in this course Sept. 7. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Ashley Carmichael, Jerome Dooms, Marcus Gramby, Thomas Hawks, Braden Horne, Eric Martin, Melvin Ratcliff, Reylan Tendido, David Turley and Joshua Zelinsky. Steve Haver, their instructor, is at the far left. Specially Trained Ordinary Seaman – Six Seafarers graduated from this course Sept. 28. Completing their requirements (above, in alphabetical order) were: Maximo Aguiran, Mutea Alnuzely, Dominador Diaz, Younis Kaid, Florante Labtingao and Arturo Reyes. Their instructor, Tom Truitt, is third from the left. Medical Care Provider – The following Seafarers (above, in alphabetical order) completed this course Sept. 28: Michael Batten, Jason Brown, Patrick Devlin, Michael Harris Jr., Tyrone Hernandez, Enrique Medri, Timothy Russell and Felix Somorostro. Mike Roberts, their instructor, is at the far right. FOWT – The following individuals (photo at right, in alphabetical order) completed this course Sept. 14: Majed Alsharif, Brett Arcouette, Mashanda Carr, Ryan Crowell, Rodney Davis, Bobbie Gibbs, Joseph Haines, Febian Jefferson, Lucion Liles, Trevor Manion, Enrique Medri, William Mercer, Mana Muhsen, Michael Papaioannou, Michael Robinson and Fadhel Saleh. Class Instructor Tim Achorn is at the far left. (Note: Not all are pictured.) 22 Seafarers LOG 11769_November.indd 22 November 2012 10/25/2012 7:26:31 PM �Paul Hall Center Classes Tankship Familiarization – Two classes of unlicensed apprentices completed this course Sept. 7. Graduating (photo at left, in alphabetical order) were: Jeffrey Angeles, Nathaniel Balos, Oscar Cordero, Matthew Dugan, John Garrett, Jose Gonzalez, Johnathan Harrell, Stephen Heinz, Jamar Henderson, Bill Hunt, Jeremy Jendrusiak, Christopher Johnson, Todd Lander, Ryan Lindsoe, Robert Lloyd, Gina Lucas, Joshua Moton, Frank Sambula, Corey Sanders, Matthew Schmitz, Benjamin Smith, Freddie Taylor, Matthew Thomas, Jose Vega and Pedro Vega. Their instructor, Brad Wheeler, is at the far right wearing a plaid shirt. Important Notice Students who have registered for classes at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, but later discover - for whatever reason that they can’t attend, should inform the admissions department immediately so arrangements can be made to have other students take their places. Basic & Advanced Firefighting – Twelve individuals completed this course Sept. 28. Those graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Joseph Benavente Jr., Xerxes Cunanan, Jason Davis, Archie Eldridge, Braden Horne, Tess Kannuck, David Johnson, Keith Marion, Timothy McKibbon, Rodney Payne, Robert Puckett and Reylan Tendido. Class Instructors Wayne Johnson and Joe Zienda are at the far left and far right, respectively. Basic & Advanced Firefighting – The following upgraders (above, in alphabetical order) finished this course Sept. 21: Bryan Brady, Jason Brown, Ryan Crowell, Patrick Devlin, Michael Harris Jr., Tyrone Hernandez, Gregory Howard, Enrique Medri, Victor Sapp, Felix Somorostro, Marvin Tucker and Djaun Wright. Class Instructor Mark Cates is at the far right. BST – Twenty individuals finished their training requirements in this course Sept. 21. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Abdulla Alwaseem, Kyren Ancrum, Michael Batten, Franklin Beck, Reuben Brown, Carlos Cacho, Andrew Eastman, David Grieg, Andrew Higbee, Nasir Isa, McKinley Jones Jr., Julie Major, Mustafa Malik, Benjamin Matthews, Julius Obilania, James Oling, Adiawor Otumfo, Carlos Parrilla, Aaron Sills and Henry Tucker. (Note: Not all are pictured.) BST (Hawaii) – Fifteen individuals completed their requirements in this course Aug. 11 at the Seafarers Training Facility in Barbers Point, Hawaii. Graduating (above, in no particular order) were: Cassandra Kerney-Rogers, Thomas Alan Allsage, Ricardo Rogriguez, Jade Tubera, Barron Gaines Jr., Steven Stahl, Phonicial Washington, Jay Cosca, Constantino Bertoso Jr., Ronnie Salosa, Joel Guevara, Maria Lew, Silvia Bresson, Alana Duncanson and Shawn Mabe. November 2012 11769_November.indd 23 Steward Department Classes – Five upgraders recently completed their requirements in various steward d epartment classes. Those graduating and their respective classes (above, in alphabetical order) were: Jatniel Aguilera, chief cook; David Johnson, advanced galley; Emmanuel Matias, certified chief cook; Ely Tayag, galley operations; and Evelyn Tayag, chief steward. (Note: Not all are pictured.) BST (Hawaii) - The following individuals (above, in no particular order) graduated from this course Sept. 8 at the Barbers Point, Hawaii-based Seafarers Training Facility: Clifford D Souza, Bradley Daniels, Mary Dermid, Lindsey Dorman, Sheena Earl, Peter Franada, Mallory GrandPre, Melinda Hartman, Nicole Hawkins, Nikkolas Hawkins, Edward Jenkins, Erin Jenkins, Sarah Karp, Stepahnie Lisa, Kyle Nieft, Ralph Sacayle, Samuel Spare and Michael Stingo. Seafarers LOG 23 10/25/2012 7:26:39 PM �Volume 74, Number 11 November 2012 Paul Hall Center Course Dates Page 21 Major Progress In Piney Point Waterfront Project S everal phases of the union-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education’s multi-stage waterfront restoration project are complete; however, a few segments still must be finalized. A ceremonial ribbon cutting ceremony signaling the completion of these phases and the reopening of the waterfront restoration area was held Sept. 11 at the Piney Point, Md.-based campus. The event was attended by union officials, trustees, convention delegates and guests who attended the Seafarers International Union of North America’s 26th Quinquennial Convention. In addition to a new concrete pier and floating marina with 12 double slips (photo immediately below), the waterfront now features a new pier site for the MV John F. Fay training vessel (photo above), a single point davit with fast rescue capability (bottom photo below) and a new life boat davit with new lifeboats (photo at right). Besides these four features which significantly enhance maritime training at the center, more than 1,500 feet of old piers have been replaced on the waterfront as has old seawall and in excess of 1,000 feet of old bulkheads. Also gone via demolition are the old railway, marina, Hagglund Crane and marine museum. A much anticipated waterfront park, whose amenities are still being considered, is expected to be completed next year. 11769_November.indd 24 10/25/2012 7:26:47 PM � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Seafarers Log Issues 2010-2019 Description An account of the resource Volumes LXXII-LXXXI of the Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Seafarers Log Digital Copies Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 2010-2019 Document A resource containing textual data. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre text. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource November 2012 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES CHRISTENINGS SIGNAL NEW SIU JOBS UNION CONTINUES FIGHT FOR MARINERS SIU CIVMARS EARN MSC ACCOLADES SIU WELCOMES NEW JOBS AS CROWLEY CHRISTENS ATB NAVY LAUNCHES SECOND HIGH-SPEED VESSEL: USNS CHOCTAW COUNTY UNION ELECTING VOTING BEGAN NOV. 1 COAST GUARD ISSUES STCW POLICY LETTERS NEW YORK PORT COUNCIL HONOREES SALUTE AMERICA’S WORKING FAMILIES OFFICIALS, TRUSTEES BREAK GROUND FOR NEW PHC CLAIMS BUILDING SEAFARERS SAIL WITH DOE FOR SCIENCE OCEAN ATLAS ORDEAL SHINES LIGHT ON MDL BOSUN PRAISES UNION-AFFILIATED SCHOOL AB RECALLS CROSSING EQUATOR RETIRED LAKES VP BYRON KELLEY DIES AT 79 THE FORGOTTEN SAILORS OF WORLD WAR II TWICS ISSUES IN 2007 NOW BEGINNING TO EXPIRE MAJOR PROGRESS IN PINEY POINT WATERFRONT PROJECT Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Seafarers Log Digital Copies Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 11/01/2012 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Newsprint Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context Vol. 74, No. 11 http://www.seafarerslog.org/archives/files/original/a20f00780bc0859b8448c26de1261629.pdf 7895a052aa1f3e97cd17a621d736fa1a PDF Text Text Volume 74, Number 12 New Tonnage Page 3 December 2012 Beck Notice Page 6 Scholarship Info Pages 11, 14 �President’s Report Victory for Working Families After all the TV and radio ads, all of the debates, the constant media coverage and the endless Facebook posts, I wouldn’t blame Seafarers one bit if you’re beyond happy to have Election Day fading in the rear-view mirror, regardless of which candidates you backed. But even as the SIU and the rest of the labor movement jumped into action promoting workers’ rights in this so-called lame-duck session of Congress, and as we prepare to work with the second Obama administration, there are some very important lessons to take away from what happened across the country on November 6. Right at the top of the list is the very real, ongoing power of grassroots activities demonstrated by SIU members and many, many others who volunteered in support of pro-worker candidates at every level of government. Grassroots mobilization quite simply is our edge when it comes to electing people who’ll support maritime, collective bargaining and other workers’ rights. We’ll never be able to outspend the anti-worker front groups, but, brothers and sisters, do we ever know how to get out the vote! Those of you who’ve knocked on doors, worked the phones, handed out leaflets and helped provide transportation to the polls know quite well that grassroots mobilization rarely is glamorous. You could say it’s the electoral equivalent of chipping and painting – not especially fun, but the price of inaction eventually would be steep. Monetary donations are important, too. It’s part of the system we’ve got and the world we live in. On that note, I thank Seafarers for your ongoing support of SPAD, our voluntary political action fund. SPAD is extremely critical for your union. It helps us protect your livelihoods. And, as reported elsewhere in this edition, the money was well-spent, as an overwhelming majority of SPAD-backed candidates won their elections. In reading about the elections, there were far too many statistics to fully remember them all. But for us in the labor movement, here are some important numbers that you probably didn’t see in your local newspaper or hear about on television. In the key battleground states, union members and labor-backed groups made more than 5.5 million phone calls and knocked on nearly 3.3 million doors to promote proworker candidates, far surpassing the efforts of our opponents. Union families composed a much higher percentage of actual voters across the nation as compared to our percentage of the workforce. And in the states that essentially decided the race for the White House, we voted for the Obama-Biden ticket by significant majorities. As AFL-CIO President Rich Trumka put it, union families made the difference in the firewall states of Ohio, Wisconsin and Nevada and probably at least three or four other ones. The numbers are still being crunched, but there’s no doubt working families tipped the outcomes not just for the White House but also in many Senate and House races and on issues like California’s anti-worker Proposition 32. Our work is never finished and we’re moving forward, but stick with me for two final points about the elections. One, I offer sincere thanks and congratulations to our members who donated their time during this election cycle. As the old adage goes, victory has 100 fathers, while defeat is an orphan. You all have the right to claim victory! Two, I of course realize the emotions involved in elections, especially the race between President Obama and Governor Romney. But the elections are over, and we need to move forward as one union, one family, one crew. We are the Brotherhood of the Sea, and that’s the strongest bond of all. Happy Holidays It’s hard to believe another year has passed, but the winter holidays once again are upon us. To all our brothers and sisters, active and retired, and to their families, I extend my very best wishes for a safe, happy and healthy holiday season. Whether you’re at sea or on the beach, I appreciate your support and look forward to tackling the challenges of the New Year. Volume 74, Number 12 December 2012 The SIU online: www.seafarers.org The Seafarers LOG (ISSN 1086-4636) is published monthly by the Seafarers International Union; Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU, AFLCIO; 5201 Auth Way; Camp Springs, MD 20746. Telephone (301) 899-0675. Periodicals postage paid at Southern Maryland 20790-9998. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to the Seafarers LOG, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. Communications Director, Jordan Biscardo; Managing Editor/Production, Jim Guthrie; Assistant Editor, Brian Ahern; Photographer, Harry Gieske; Administrative Support, Misty Dobry. Copyright © 2012 Seafarers International Union, AGLIWD. All Rights Reserved. The Seafarers International Union engaged an environmentally friendly printer for the production of this newspaper. 2 Seafarers LOG SIU Members Aid Sandy Victims When Superstorm Sandy pummeled the East Coast in late October, SIU members sprang into action. The New York-New Jersey region needed all the help it could get, and Seafarers were prepared to assist in any way they could. “We keep the necessary people and stand ready at a minute’s notice to assist in whatever the endeavor may be,” said SIU Director of Manpower Bart Rogers. “People depend on us to be ready and they appreciate that we are.” In accordance with direction from the Obama administration, the SIU worked to rapidly to crew three New York-bound relief vessels mere hours after the storm made landfall. The ships would serve as a sort of floating hotel that provided housing, hot food and showers to hundreds of emergency responders working to deal with the storm’s aftermath. Upon hearing the activation orders, Rogers said, the response was swift. “The hurricane hit on Monday and Tuesday and we crewed the ships on Wednesday,” he said. “Everybody wants to be able to help and do their part in any way they can. Being able to feel like you’re making a difference inspires a lot of people.” The Baltimore-based, Crowley-operated SS Wright, along with the training ship Kennedy from the Massachusetts Maritime Academy, docked at Staten Island’s Home Port Pier to house FEMA community relations surge personnel and American Red Cross teams. The training ship Empire State, from Fort Schuyler, N.Y., sailed to the SUNY Maritime Academy in the Bronx to support FEMA community relations surge personnel. Rogers said the 62 Seafarers who crewed the three ships came from around the East Coast, many of them from areas that were devastated by the storm. There is currently no timeframe on when the ships and their crews might return home. “It’s a pretty big commitment to ask someone to leave their home in a storm like that to crew a ship. Even being in the heart of the storm, they rallied and did a really good job of getting these ships together,” he said. “A lot of people made a lot of sacrifices.” That sacrifice was spread across the maritime industry. In a letter to President Obama, the American Maritime Partnership (AMP) said it would do whatever was required to help those affected by the storm. “Nothing is more important right now than the safety and security of our fellow Americans,” the letter read. “Our industry is working around the clock responding to this emergency.” The help was definitely needed. Early estimates showed the storm caused nearly $50 billion in property damage alone. Thousands saw their homes ravaged, while more went without power for weeks. Due to storm-related disruptions, New York and New Jersey experienced severe fuel shortages and resorted to gasoline rationing. To help alleviate that problem, Homeland Security Secretary Janet Napolitano issued a blanket Jones Act waiver to allow additional ships to transport petroleum products from the Gulf of Mexico to Northeastern ports. Re-affirming its commitment to helping storm- The Seafarers-crewed Wright docks in Staten Island, N.Y. ravaged citizens, AMP said it would not stand in the way of the Jones Act waiver and would do whatever it could to help alleviate the fuel shortage. “Our industry is already actively facilitating the movement of petroleum and other products in the Northeast. A fleet of American vessels are standing by ready to assist as harbors and terminals open,” AMP said in its letter to the administration. “We are not aware of any circumstances where American vessels have not been available to meet transportation needs. However, in certain circumstances existing law permits the granting of Jones Act waivers when no American vessels are available. In those circumstances, we will not oppose waivers that are necessary to facilitate the delivery of petroleum products into the regions affected by Hurricane Sandy. That has been our position in previous similar national emergencies, and that is our position today.” Seafarers weren’t the only union members lending a hand. Trade unionists from practically every sector pitched in with the relief effort. There were the Fire Fighters who put out stormrelated fires, Transport Workers who got New York’s flooded subway system back in order, Utility Workers who repaired downed power lines, Electrical Workers who restored power, Letter Carriers who delivered mail through the storm and Laborers who cleared debris from the streets. “Most of the work repairing and rebuilding the storm-ravaged areas will be done by talented and hardworking union members,” the AFL-CIO wrote on its website. “Many of the organizations dealing with Sandy’s devastation emphasize the importance of union workers’ expertise and skill.” As the work continues, many are reminded of 2005 and Hurricane Katrina. Back then, the SIU also mobilized ships and provided shelter for workers. Those ships were deployed for months. “It’s very similar. Katrina dealt with a lot of flooding and so has Hurricane Sandy,” Rogers said, adding that one difference was the New York-New Jersey region wasn’t accustomed to such weather. “They’ve never seen a storm surge like this before,” he said. Union Support Drives Election Victories Seafarer-Supported Candidates See Success Nationwide The collective voice of Seafarers and fellow working class voters was heard clearly on Election Day, with the vast majority of SIU- and union-supported candidates emerging victorious. Headlined by the historic re-election of President Barack Obama, Election Day saw Seafarers throughout the country mobilize to ensure candidates friendly to labor and maritime issues would serve in Washington. In addition to Obama’s reelection were the victories of a bipartisan collection of U.S. House and Senate candidates supported by the SIU. Of those, 100 percent of SIU-supported Senate incumbents (12) and 94 percent of SIUsupported House incumbents (117) were re-elected. Of the non-incumbent challengers supported by the SIU, 57 percent of Senate candidates (four) and 70 percent of House candidates (23) won, with three races that were still too close to call as of publication. Aside from the SIU’s participation in grassroots efforts, the union also donates to candidates through the Seafarers Political Activity Donation (SPAD). “For the most part, we won,” said SIU Political and Legislative Director Brian Schoeneman. “These are people who know the industry, know maritime and know what we do.” The victory of pro-maritime candidates, Schoeneman said, emphasizes the importance of donating to SPAD. Funded through voluntary contributions from SIU members, SPAD not only works to ensure longtime SIU allies remain in office, but also helps pro-maritime challengers unseat anti-maritime opponents. “There’s nothing like walking into an office and they say you’re with Seafarers and you’ve been with them from the very beginning,” Schoeneman said. In battleground states across the country, Seafarers and fellow union members volunteered to register voters and get out the vote. According to the AFL-CIO (the national federation of trade unions to which the SIU is affiliated), the working-class vote played a vital role in electing Obama and other proworker candidates. A post-election survey showed 65 percent of union members voted for Obama, compared to 33 percent for Republican nominee Mitt Romney. “They believe that President Obama will work to build a strong middle class and invest in America,” AFL-CIO President Richard Trumka said in a postelection press conference. The AFL-CIO’s massive voter outreach program, known as Working America, was composed of hundreds of thousands of members, including Seafarers, making phone calls, canvassing neighborhoods, registering voters and getting people to the polls. Trumka said those efforts helped overcome a “tidal wave of corporate cash” designed to drown out the voice of working people. Continued on Page 10 December 2012 �Crew members from the Ocean Wave (photo at left) and Ocean Wind (above) pose with SIU VP Gulf Coast Dean Corgey and Asst. VP Jim McGee at the christening ceremony in New Orleans. Crowley Christens 2 Ocean-Class Tugs The SIU welcomed new jobs with the Oct. 26 christening of two state-of-the-art Crowley Maritime tugboats in New Orleans: the Ocean Wave and the Ocean Wind. SIU Vice President Gulf Coast Dean Corgey and Assistant Vice President Jim McGee represented the union at the ceremony, as did rank-and-file Seafarers from both tugs. According to the company, the Ocean Wind and Ocean Wave will “work in the U.S. Gulf for a major customer in the global oil and gas industry.” “These tugs are incredible,” Corgey said. “They’re real workhorses and truly are cutting-edge.” Vessel sponsors Christine Crowley, wife of Tom Crowley, chairman, president and CEO, and Trish Martus, wife of Ray Martus, new construction director for Crowley subsidiary Jensen Maritime, performed the time-honored tradition of christening the doublehulled vessels. More than 250 guests, including friends and employees from Crowley and representatives from Bollinger Shipyard, of Amelia, La., attended the event. A luncheon and vessel tours preceded the event and a celebratory reception followed. According to Crowley, the launch of this new class of tugboats, which also includes Ocean Sun and Ocean Sky, “further solidifies the company’s standing as an industry leader in ocean towing, salvage and offshore marine support for the upstream energy industry. Ideally suited to work with Crowley’s new 455 series highdeck strength barges, which measure 400 feet long by 105 feet wide, these ocean-class tugs will be outfitted for long-range, high-capacity ocean towing, rig moves, The Ocean Wave (above) is part of the company’s extensive new-build program while the SIU-crewed Ocean Wind (photo at right) is part of a new class of tugboats. NASSCO Delivers USNS Cesar Chavez Navy Names Last T-AKE Vessel in Honor of Iconic Labor Leader The fourteenth and final ship in the Navy’s Lewis and Clark-class – the USNS Cesar Chavez – was delivered to the Military Sealift Command (MSC) Oct. 24 during a Mrs. Helen Fabela Chavez, widow of Cesar Chavez, christens the USNS Cesar Chavez with the traditional bottle of champagne during a separate ceremony earlier this year. (Photo courtesy NASSCO) December 2012 short ceremony in San Diego. Members of the SIU’s Government Services Division will sail in the unlicensed slots aboard the dry cargo/ammunition ship (abbreviated as T-AKE), which was built at the union-contracted General Dynamics NASSCO shipyard. The ship, which was christened May 5 in San Diego, honors Cesar Chavez, an American farm worker, labor leader and civil rights activist who co-founded the National Farm Workers Association, which later became the United Farm Workers. He is well known for his use of non-violent tactics that made the farm workers’ struggle a moral cause with nationwide support. “This is an historic day for Military Sealift Command, as we accept into our fleet the last ship in the T-AKE program,” said Capt. Sylvester Moore, commander, MSC Pacific. “Like the 13 ships that came before it, USNS Cesar Chavez will be an important component in support of the United States Navy ships and missions around the world. Whether we are supporting an aircraft carrier or transporting humanitarian assistance and disaster relief supplies, the T-AKEs and all MSC underway replenishment ships bring to life the motto: MSC delivers.” Continued on Page 4 platform and floating production, storage and offloading unit tows, emergency response and fire fighting.” “We are raising the bar in terms of reliability, power and environmental friendliness with the addition of these tugboats,” said Crowley. “The investments we are making will serve the needs of these customers for many years to come.” The Ocean Wave and Ocean Wind are 146 feet long; the Ocean Sun and Ocean Sky are 156 feet long, while all four tugs have breadths of 44 feet and drafts of 21 feet. According to the company, “They are designed to have a minimum bollard pull of 150 metric tons, and range for the vessels will be approximately 12,600 nautical miles at 15 knots free running. They will be outfitted with twin-screw, controllable-pitch propellers in nozzles and high lift rudders for a combination of performance and fuel economy.” The tugs also feature dynamic positioning technology, which allows each vessel to maintain its positioning and heading automatically using a centralized manual control that continuously calculates environmental conditions and adjusts to the dynamics. The Caterpillar-supplied main engines and generators are all EPA Tier II compliant, and can be upgraded to meet future environmental standards, for cleaner emissions and a lower environmental impact. Other vessels in Crowley’s new-build program include the recently completed tenth and final 650-class articulated tug-barge tank vessel (ATB) and three new 750-class ATBs, the Legacy/750-1, Legend/750-2 and Liberty/750-3. Crowley has invested more than $1 billion in new tugs, high-capacity barges and ATBs as part of this program. The remaining ocean-class tugs are being constructed at Bollinger Marine Fabricators, LLC, in Amelia, La., and are scheduled for delivery in 2013. T-AKE Ships at a Glance There are 14 vessels in the Lewis and Clark-class, all of them crewed in the unlicensed positions by SIU Government Services Division members. According to an MSC spokesperson, the abbreviation (T-AKE) is pronounced as individual letters rather than as the word “take,” with the “A” standing for auxiliary, the K standing for certain types of cargo, and the E standing for certain types ammunition. Each ship in the class is 689 feet long, has a beam of 106 feet, a draft of 29.9 feet and can sail at 20 knots. The 14 Lewis and Clark-class ships are: USNS Lewis and Clark USNS Sacagawea USNS Alan Shepard USNS Richard E. Byrd USNS Robert E. Peary USNS Amelia Earhart USNS Carl Brashear USNS Wally Schirra USNS Matthew Perry USNS Charles Drew USNS Washington Chambers USNS William McLean USNS Medgar Evers USNS Cesar Chavez Seafarers LOG 3 �Seafarers David Terry (left) and Reuben Brown get their ballots in Jacksonville. Members line up at the Oakland hall on Nov. 1, the first day ballots were available. Voting Continues in Union’s Election Voting started last month and will continue through Dec. 31 in the election of officers of the SIU’s Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/ NMU. Balloting is taking place at 20 SIU halls across the country. Full-book SIU members in good standing are eligible to vote in the election, which will determine union officers for the 20132016 term. The ballot also includes two proposed constitutional amendments – one concerning amended language in Article XIII that would reflect a change in the law, the other concerning the union’s name. Seafarers may obtain their ballots from 9 a.m. until noon, Mondays through Saturdays, except legal holidays, until Dec. 31. The ballot includes the list of candidates seeking the posts of president, executive vice president, secretary-treasurer, six vice presidents, six assistant vice presidents and 10 port agents (for a total of 25 positions) along with the SIU Crews Among AOTOS Honorees 4 Seafarers LOG proposed constitutional amendments. At the union halls, a member in good standing (upon presenting his or her book) is given a ballot and two envelopes. After his or her selection is marked, the ballot is folded and placed inside an envelope marked “ballot.” That envelope then is sealed inside a postage-paid envelope bearing the mailing address of the bank depository where ballots are kept until submitted to the union tallying committee. The rank-and-file tallying committee, consisting of two members from each of the union’s constitutional ports, will be elected in December. They will convene in early January and will tabulate and announce the election results. Article XIII of the union’s constitution spells out the procedures by which an election will be conducted. The entire text of Article XIII, along with a sample ballot, a list of voting locations, the constitutional committee’s report and other related information appears on pages 6-10 of the October Five Seafarers-crewed vessels and three champions of the maritime industry were honored at this year’s United Seamen’s Service Admiral of the Ocean Sea (AOTOS) awards dinner, which took place Oct. 26 in New York City. Receiving AOTOS awards were (group photo, from left) International Shipholding Corporation CEO and Chairman Niels Johnsen, U.S. Senator Mary Landrieu (D-La.), and Overseas Shipholding Group Senior VP Capt. Robert Johnston. Detailed information about those honorees appeared in the August LOG. SIU President Michael Sacco (other photo) introduced Johnston, who also heads OSG’s U.S.-flag strategic business unit. The 700plus attendees also saw awards presented to representatives from the SIU-crewed Ocean Titan, USNS 1st Lt. Baldomero Lopez, USNS Mercy, Green Cove, and Horizon Reliance. The hospital ship Mercy was recognized for humanitarian mission Pacific Partnership, while the Lopez was saluted for saving a contractor’s life. The other three vessels received honors for at-sea rescues. 2012 issue of the Seafarers LOG. Additionally, a notice of the election was mailed in October to all mem- bers at their last known address, with a list of all voting locations as well as a sample of the official ballot. SA Charlotte Chastain is pictured at the Jacksonville hall. It’s an SIU Guam tradition: The first ballot in the union’s election is secured where America’s day begins. Steward/Baker John Neal (left), pictured with Port Agent John Hoskins, is believed to have been the first member to secure a ballot. Chavez Joins MSC’s CIVMAR Fleet Continued from Page 3 With a crew of 125 CIVMARS working for MSC (including SIU members and licensed officers) and 11 U.S. Navy Sailors who provide operational support and supply coordination, the 689-footlong Chavez is slated for use by MSC’s Combat Logistics Force, or CLF. CLF ships – also manned by SIU Government Services Division members – deliver ammunition, food, fuel and other supplies to U.S. and allied ships at sea, enabling the Navy to maintain a worldwide forward presence. According to the Navy, the first 11 dry cargo/ammunition ships are operating as part of the CLF, “delivering vital fuel, equipment and supplies to Navy warships at sea. The remaining three ships in the T-AKE class are expected to be assigned to maritime prepositioning squadrons, which strategically place combat cargo at sea for rapid delivery to warfighters ashore.” “The delivery of Chavez marks a significant milestone for MSC – we are now at full capacity with our dry-cargo and ammunition ships and stand ready to support a wide-range of Department of Defense requirements,” said Rear Admiral Mark Buzby, MSC commander. “The T-AKEs, and the professional mariners who operate them, are a true testament to MSC’s ability to operate forward and provide an unprecedented level of service and support to our warfighters worldwide.” The ships in this class are replacing vessels such as the Kilauea-class ammunition ships and Mars- and Sirius-class combat stores ships as they reach the end of their service lives. SIU Government Services Division members will sail aboard the USNS Cesar Chavez, shown at its delivery ceremony Oct. 24 in San Diego. (Photo courtesy NASSCO) December 2012 �Former Administrators Speak Out for Merchant Marine Two former U.S. maritime administrators – retired Vice Adm. Albert Herberger and retired Capt. William Schubert – are speaking out for the U.S. Merchant Marine in an opinion piece published by Defense News. Herberger, who also was deputy commander of the U.S. Transportation Command, served at MarAd from 1993-97, while Schubert served at the agency from 2001-05. Both currently work as maritime consultants. Their jointly written piece begins: “During times of war or national emergency, the U.S. government relies on the U.S. Merchant Marine and its public-private partnership with the Department of Defense to ensure there is adequate U.S.controlled capacity to transport critical cargo anywhere in the world at any time. “Thanks to this partnership, the U.S. Merchant Marine’s vessels, infrastructure and manpower are at the nation’s disposal whenever necessary. Without this, our assured ability to deliver military equipment and supplies quickly and efficiently to our soldiers would be severely diminished.” Herberger and Schubert go on to cite recent, dangerous cuts to cargo preference that will wipe out American jobs and harm the nation’s security. They advocate reversing the cuts by enacting the Saving Essential American Sailors (SEAS) Act, H.R. 6170, which was introduced by U.S. Reps. Elijah Cummings (D-Md.) and Jeff Landry (R-La.) and which has dozens of cosponsors. “We salute them for recognizing the national security imperative of ensuring the readiness of the U.S. Merchant Marine, and we urge other members to join the movement to enact this bill and reverse the unwarranted and dangerous cut in U.S.-flag shipping requirements,” Herberger and Schubert wrote. “We understand that congressional leaders must often make tough decisions. Reversing the cut to cargo preference and preserving the U.S. Merchant Marine is not one of them.” They added, “Since its founding in 1776, our nation has depended on the U.S. Merchant Marine to ensure that we have a trustworthy, reliable sealift capability so no country can have a veto over U.S. foreign policy. Most recently, U.S.flag vessels safely and effectively carried more than 90 percent of military supplies for the conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan. Without the citizen merchant mariners manning these ships, the U.S. would be forced to depend on politically unreliable Vice Adm. Al Herberger Capt. William Schubert foreign ships and foreign crews to carry some of its most important cargoes. “The U.S. Merchant Marine is critical not only because it is a trustworthy extension of U.S. military capabilities, but also because it is cost-effective. In fact, MarAd has indicated that the Defense Department would need $13 billion in capital costs plus $1 billion in annual operating costs to replicate the sealift capacity that it obtains at a fraction of that price through the U.S. Merchant Marine.” ITF General Secretary Announces May 2013 as His Retirement Date David Cockroft, who has been general secretary of the International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF) since 1993, announced in late October that he will retire at the end of May 2013 when he reaches age 60. The announcement was made at the meeting of the ITF executive board in Copenhagen, Denmark, which also agreed to appoint Stephen Cotton, who is currently ITF maritime coordinator, as acting general secretary. The SIU is an active ITF affiliate, and SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel serves as chair of the federation’s Seafarers’ Section. Cockroft stated, “Next year I will have been the chief executive officer of this remarkable global union federation for 20 years. Although I was elected for a four-year period at the 42nd ITF congress in Mexico City in 2010, I feel it is important to give my successor enough time to establish good relations with every part of this organization prior to the 43rd congress in 2014. “I am very happy that the board has decided to appoint Stephen Cotton to this position,” Cockroft continued. “Stephen has taken the maritime activities of the ITF, including the ITF flag of convenience (FOC) campaign and its younger brother the ports of convenience campaign, to new heights. There is not a shipping company or port employer anywhere that does not respect the strength of the ITF…. “As for my own future plans,” he concluded, “I remain committed to giving help to the development of strong, democratic, worker-led unions in every part of the world, but at a pace and to a timetable which enable me also to pay more attention to my family and friends.” Cotton commented, “To step into David’s shoes and to take on this new role is a huge responsibility and an extraordinary challenge. But it’s not my responsibility alone, it is one shared by everyone within the ITF community worldwide.” December 2012 David Cockroft Stephen Cotton He continued, “As transport unions we are beginning to change the face of trade union power and make a real impact on the global economy. We will defeat those who would attack trade union rights and weaken workers’ industrial muscle. We will have more, bigger, better unions in the ITF and we will deliver real gains to ordinary workers everywhere. Now and in the future we have a real opportunity to take forward an ITF that’s built on the solid foundations left by the outstanding predecessors I’ve been fortunate to have had – the most recent of whom is David Cockroft, who has helped turn this organization into the global powerhouse that it is today.” Heindel has worked closely both with Cockroft and Cotton for the past 14 years. “Transport unions worldwide owe a huge vote of thanks to David Cockroft for his successful efforts during the past 20 years,” Heindel said. “Cockroft put the ITF on the map. Through his steady leadership, he pushed the FOC campaign to its current formidable state, and his legacy certainly will continue.” Looking toward the future under Cotton’s guidance, Heindel continued, “Steve is a bright, young pragmatist that brings new ideas and determination. He will pick up on David’s legacy and bring the whole of the ITF to the next level. Steve has more than proven himself during his time as the federation’s maritime coordinator with his energetic approach to the FOC campaign. He also brings an ability to oversee a broader vision on supply-chain logistics. I am confident that the future of the federation is in good, steady hands.” ITF President Paddy Crumlin added, “The unanimous decision of the executive board today reflects the mature leadership of David Cockroft and of the ITF. The personal, political and industrial qualities of the only candidate for acting general secretary, Steve Cotton, place the ITF well for the future.” Deputy Maritime Administrator An ‘Eager Partner’ of Industry The new United States deputy maritime administrator recently told industry representatives that advocacy groups and teamwork are vital in promoting a strong U.S. Merchant Marine. Captain Paul “Chip” Jaenichen, a retired U.S. Navy officer who earlier this year was appointed to his post at the Maritime Administration (MarAd), made his remarks Oct. 31 during a luncheon meeting sponsored by the Propeller Club of the United States. Several SIU headquarters officials attended the gathering, which took place in the nation’s capital. Jaenichen said organizations like the Propeller Club, the American Maritime Partnership (AMP) coalition and others are vitally important in boosting American-flag shipping. He also said that when it comes to meeting his agency’s goals, “It’s clear that we cannot do it alone.” He said he is utilizing lessons from his 30-year U.S. Navy career, such as the importance of learning the commercial maritime industry’s history and the decisions that have led to its current state. He described himself as an “eager partner” who is reaching out to, and meeting with, representatives from every component of the industry, including labor. The deputy administrator acknowledged recent cuts to the food aid component of cargo preference and said the administration is working “very diligently” to reverse those losses. Despite the drawdowns in Iraq and Afghanistan, he sees opportunities for U.S.flag shipping. Finally, Jaenichen wants to strengthen the Maritime Security Program even more, and he repeatedly called for greater backing of the Title XI shipbuilding loan guarantee program. MarAd is an agency within the Department of Transportation. Its self-described mission is, in part, to maintain “the health of the merCapt. Paul “Chip” Jaenichen chant marine, since Deputy MarAd Administrator commercial mariners, vessels, and intermodal facilities are vital for supporting national security, and so the agency provides support and information for current mariners, extensive support for educating future mariners, and programs to educate America’s young people about the vital role the maritime industry plays in the lives of all Americans. The Maritime Administration also maintains a fleet of cargo ships in reserve to provide surge sealift during war and national emergencies….” Seafarers LOG 5 �Summary Annual Report for Seafarers Money Purchase Pension Plan This is a summary of the annual report for the Seafarers Money Purchase Pension Plan, (Employer Identification No. 52-1994914, Plan No. 001) for the period January 1, 2011 to December 31, 2011. The annual report has been filed with the Employee Benefits Security Administration, as required under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA). Basic Financial Statement Benefits under the plan are provided by a trust (benefits are provided in whole from trust funds). Plan expenses were $5,087,447. These expenses included $1,122,760 in administrative expenses and $3,964,687 in benefits paid to participants and beneficiaries. A total of 16,541 persons were participants in or beneficiaries of the plan at the end of the plan year, although not all of these persons had yet earned the right to receive benefits. The value of plan assets, after subtracting liabilities of the plan, was $84,504,688 as of December 31, 2011 compared to $78,273,129 as of January 1, 2011. During the plan year the plan experienced an increase in its net assets of $6,231,559. This increase includes unrealized appreciation or depreciation in the value of plan assets; that is, the difference between the value of the plan’s assets at the end of the year and the value of the assets at the beginning of the year, or the cost of assets acquired during the year. The plan had total income of $11,029,497, including employer contributions of $7,074,791, employee contributions of $82,946, gains of $211,834 from the sale of assets and earnings from investments of $3,659,926. Minimum Funding Standards Enough money was contributed to the plan to keep it funded in accordance with the minimum funding standards of ERISA. Your Rights to Additional Information You have the right to receive a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, on request. The items listed below are included in that report: 1. An accountant’s report; 2. Assets held for investment; 3. Transactions in excess of 5 percent of the plan assets; and 4. Information regarding any common or collective trust, pooled separate accounts, master trusts or 03-12 investment entities in which the plan participates. To obtain a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, write or call the office of Margaret R. Bowen, Administrator, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746, (301) 899-0675. You also have the right to receive from the plan administrator, on request and at no charge, a statement of the assets and liabilities of the plan and accompanying notes, or a statement of income and expenses of the plan and accompanying notes, or both. If you request a copy of the full annual report from the plan administrator, these two statements and accompanying notes will be included as part of that report. These portions of the report are furnished without charge. You also have the legally protected right to examine the annual report at the main office of the plan: Plan Office, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746, and at the U.S. Department of Labor in Washington, D.C., or to obtain a copy from the U.S. Department of Labor upon payment of copying costs. Requests to the Department should be addressed to: U.S. Department of Labor, Employee Benefits Security Administration, Public Disclosure Room, 200 Constitution Avenue, NW, Suite N-1513, Washington, D.C. 20210. Basic Financial Statement The value of plan assets, after subtracting liabilities of the plan, was $21,883,176 as of December 31, 2011 compared to $23,731,867 as of January 1, 2011. During the plan year the plan experienced a decrease in its net assets of $1,848,691. This decrease includes unrealized appreciation or depreciation in the value of plan assets; that is, the difference between the value of the plan’s assets at the end of the year and the value of the assets at the beginning of the year, or the cost of assets acquired during the year. During the plan year, the plan had total income of $61,308,202. This income included employer contributions of $59,992,796, realized gains of $225,851 from the sale of assets and earnings from investments of $871,470. Plan expenses were $63,156,893. These expenses included $8,002,804 in administrative expenses and $55,154,089 in benefits paid to participants and beneficiaries. Your Rights to Additonal Information You have the right to receive a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, on request. The items listed below are included in that report: 1. An accountant’s report; 2. Assets held for investment; and 3. Transactions in excess of 5 percent of the plan assets. To obtain a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, write or call the office of: Margaret R. Bowen, Administrator, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746, (301) 899-0675. You also have the right to receive from the plan administrator, on request and at no charge, a statement of the assets and liabilities of the plan and accompanying notes, or a statement of income and expenses of the plan and accompanying notes, or both. If you request a copy of the full annual report from the plan administrator, these two statements and accompanying notes will be included as part of that report. These portions of the report are furnished without charge. You also have the legally protected right to examine the annual report at the main office of the plan: Plan Office, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746, and at the U.S. Department of Labor in Washington, D.C., or to obtain a copy from the U.S. Department of Labor upon payment of copying costs. Requests to the Department should be addressed to: U.S. Department of Labor, Employee Benefits Security Administration, Public Disclosure Room, 200 Constitution Avenue, NW, Suite N-1513, Washington, D.C. 20210. Beck Notice The Seafarers International Union, AGLIWD/ NMU assists employees by representing them in all aspects of their employment and work aboard vessels which sail deep sea, on the Great Lakes and inland waters throughout the country. For the most part, the union spends a majority of its financial resources on collective bargaining activities and employee representation services. In addition to these expenditures, the union also spends resources on a variety of other efforts such as organizing, publications, political activities, international affairs and community services. All of these services advance the interests of the union and its membership. This annual notice is required by law and is sent to advise employees represented by the Seafarers International Union, AGLIWD/NMU about their rights and obligations concerning payment of union dues. This notice contains information which will allow you to understand the advantages and benefits of being a union member in good standing. It also will provide you with detailed information as to how to become an agency fee payor. An agency fee payor is an employee who is not a member of the union but who meets his or her financial obligation by making agency fee payments. With this information, you will be able to make an informed decision about your status with the Seafarers International Union, AGLIWD/NMU. 1. Benefits of union membership — While nonmembers do receive material benefits from a union presence in their workplace, there are significant benefits to retaining full membership in the union. Among the many benefits and opportunities available to a member of the Seafarers International Union, AGLIWD/NMU is the right to attend union meetings, the right to vote for candidates for union office and the right to run for union office. Members also have the right to participate in the development of contract proposals and participate in contract ratification and strike votes. Members also may play a 6 Seafarers LOG This is a summary of the annual report for the Seafarers International Union AGLIWD 401(K) Plan, (Employer Identification No. 26-1527179, Plan No. 002) for the period January 1, 2011 to December 31, 2011. The annual report has been filed with the Employee Benefits Security Administration, as required under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA). Basic Financial Statement Benefits under the plan are provided by a trust (benefits are provided in whole from trust funds). Plan expenses were $1,329,061. These expenses included $71,938 in administrative expenses, $1,227,609 in benefits paid to participants and beneficiaries and $29,514 in other expenses. A total of 11,003 persons were participants in or beneficiaries of the plan at the end of the plan year, although not all of these persons had yet earned the right to receive benefits. The value of plan assets, after subtracting liabilities of the plan, was $11,331,762 as of December 31, 2011 compared to $10,431,831 as of January 1, 2011. During the plan year the plan experienced an increase in its net assets of $899,931. This increase includes unrealized appreciation or depreciation in the value of plan assets; that is, the difference between the value of the plan’s assets at the end of the year and the value of the assets at the beginning of the year, or the cost of assets acquired during the year. The plan had total income of $2,228,992, including employee contributions of $2,131,394 and earnings from investments of $15,678. The plan has contracts with Massachusetts Mutual Life Insurance Company, and Ing Life Insurance and Annuity Company which allocate funds toward individual policies. The total premiums paid for the plan year ending December 31, 2011 were $0. Minimum Funding Standards Enough money was contributed to the plan to keep it funded in accordance with the minimum funding standards of ERISA. Summary Annual Report for Seafarers Vacation Plan This is a summary of the annual report for the Seafarers Vacation Plan, (Employer Identification No. 13-5602047, Plan No. 503) for the period January 1, 2011 to December 31, 2011. The annual report has been filed with the Employee Benefits Security Administration, as required under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA). Summary Annual Report For Seafarers International Union AGLIWD 401(K) Plan Your Rights to Additional Information You have the right to receive a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, on request. The items listed below are included in that report: 1. An accountant’s report; 2. Assets held for investment; 3. Insurance information including sales commissions paid by insurance carriers; and 4. Information regarding any common or collective trust, pooled separate accounts, master trusts or 103-12 investment entities in which the plan participates. To obtain a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, write or call the office of Margaret Bowen, Plan Administrator, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746, (301) 899-0675. You also have the right to receive from the plan administrator, on request and at no charge, a statement of the assets and liabilities of the plan and accompanying notes, or a statement of income and expenses of the plan and accompanying notes, or both. If you request a copy of the full annual report from the plan administrator, these two statements and accompanying notes will be included as part of that report. These portions of the report are furnished without charge. You also have the legally protected right to examine the annual report at the main office of the plan: Plan Office, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746, and at the U.S. Department of Labor in Washington, D.C., or to obtain a copy from the U.S. Department of Labor upon payment of copying costs. Requests to the Department should be addressed to: U.S. Department of Labor, Employee Benefits Security Administration, Public Disclosure Room, 200 Constitution Avenue, NW, Suite N-1513, Washington, D.C., 20210. Notice to Employees Covered by Union Agreements Regulated Under the National Labor Relations Act role in the development and formulation of union policies. 2. Cost of union membership — In addition to working dues, to belong to the union as a full book member the cost is $500.00 (five hundred dollars) per year or $125.00 (one hundred twenty-five dollars) per quarter. Working dues amount to 5 percent of the gross amount an employee receives for vacation benefits and are paid when the member files a vacation application. 3. Agency fee payors — Employees who choose not to become union members may become agency fee payors. As a condition of employment, in states which permit such arrangements, individuals are obligated to make payments to the union in the form of an agency fee. The fee these employees pay is to support the core representational services that the union provides. These services are those related to the collective bargaining process, contract administration and grievance adjustments. Examples of these activities include but are not limited to, the negotiation of collective bargaining agreements, the enforcement and administration of collective bargaining agreements and meetings with employers and employees. Union services also include representation of employees during disciplinary meetings, grievance and arbitration proceedings, National Labor Relations Board hearings and court litigation. Employees who pay agency fees are not required to pay for expenses not germane to the collective bargaining process. Examples of these expenses would be expenses required as a result of community service, legislative activities and political affairs. 4. Amount of agency fee — As noted above, dues objectors may pay a fee which represents the costs of expenses related to those supporting costs germane to the collective bargaining process. After review of all expenses during the 2011 calendar year, the fee cost associated with this representation amounts to 82.31 percent of the dues amount. This means that the agency fee based upon the dues would be $411.55 (four hundred eleven dollars fiftyfive cents) for the applicable year. An appropriate reduction also will be calculated for working dues. This amount applies to the 2013 calendar year. This means that any individual who wishes to elect to pay agency fees and submits a letter between December 1, 2012 and November 30, 2013 will have this calculation applied to their 2013 dues payments which may still be owed to the union. As noted below, however, to continue to receive the agency fee reduction effective January 2014, your objection must be received by December 1, 2013. A report which delineates chargeable and nonchargeable expenses is available to you free of charge. You may receive a copy of this report by writing to: Secretary-Treasurer, Seafarers International Union, AGLIWD/NMU, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. This report is based upon an audited financial report of the union’s expenses during 2011. Please note that as the chargeable and nonchargeable expenses may change each year, the agency fee amount may also fluctuate each year. Individuals who are entitled to pay agency fees and wish to pay fees rather than dues, must elect this option each year by filing an objection in accordance with the procedure noted below. 5. Filing of objections — If you choose to object to paying dues, an objection must be filed annually. To receive the deduction beginning in January of each year, you must file by the beginning of December in the prior year. An employee may file an objection at any time during the year, however, the reduction will apply only prospectively and only until December 31 of that calendar year. Reductions in dues will not be applied retroactively. As noted above, each year the amount of the dues reduction may change based upon an auditor’s report from a previous year. The objection must be sent in writing to: Agency Fee Payor Objection Administration, SecretaryTreasurer’s Office, Seafarers International Union, AGLIWD/NMU, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. 6. Filing a challenge — Upon receiving the notice of calculation of the chargeable expenditures related to core representation activities, an objector shall have 45 days to submit a challenge with the Secretary-Treasurer’s office if he or she believes that the calculation of chargeable activities is incorrect. Every person who wishes to object to the calculation of chargeable expenses has a legal right to file such an objection. 7. Appeal procedure — Upon receiving the challenge(s) at the end of the 45-day period, the union will consolidate all appeals and submit them to an independent arbitrator. The presentation to the arbitrator will be either in writing or at a hearing. The method of the arbitration will be determined by the arbitrator. If a hearing is held, any objector who does not wish to attend may submit his/her views in writing by the date of the hearing. If a hearing is not held, the arbitrator will set the dates by which all written submissions will be received. The costs of the arbitration shall be borne by the union. Individuals submitting challenges will be responsible for all the costs associated with presenting their appeal. The union will have the burden of justifying its calculations. The SIU works very hard to ensure that all of its members receive the best representation possible. On behalf of all the SIU officers and employees, I would like to thank you for your continuing support. Sincerely, David Heindel Secretary-Treasurer December 2012 �SIU Official, Other Speakers Point Out Benefits of MLC SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel was a featured speaker Nov. 16 at a symposium co-sponsored by the Seamen’s Church Institute, the Charleston (S.C.) School of Law, and the Charleston Maritime Law Institute. He and other guest speakers discussed the importance of the Maritime Labor Convention, 2006 (MLC), and its anticipated effects on the U.S. maritime industry. In addition to his duties with the SIU, Heindel servers as chairman of the Seafarers’ Section of the International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF), to which the union is affiliated. He was joined at the symposium (which took place in Charleston) by fellow guest speakers Bruce Carlton, head of the U.S. delegation to the International Labor Organization; and Joseph Cox, president and CEO of the Chamber of Shipping of America. All of them played roles in helping advance the MLC. Heindel described the MLC as among the most important pieces of international maritime legislation in the last 100 years, both for the U.S. and other nations. He briefly reviewed the history of maritime conventions as a way of explaining the general state of today’s industry. That description included a candid look at so-called flags of convenience or runaway flags and how they affect mariners. He also stated, “The MLC incorporates the fundamental principles of many ILO conventions and updates standards of 68 existing ILO conventions into one document. This new seafarers bill of rights is truly the Magna Carta of the modern merchant marine and is argu- David Heindel SIU Secretary-Treasurer ably the most important convention covering migratory workers which has ever been adopted. It sets out comprehensive international standards for seafarers.” Set to take effect in August 2013, the MLC “provides solutions to contemporary economic and social challenges and is a way forward to secure justice, equality, fairness and human dignity for everyone concerned,” Heindel noted. “The MLC provides comprehensive minimum rights and protection at work for the world’s more than 1.5 million seafarers. It aims to achieve both decent employment for seafarers and secure economic interests in fair competition for quality shipowners. As an estimated 90 percent of world trade is carried on ships, seafarers are essential to international trade and the international economic and trade system.” He then examined some of the convention’s details and finished by telling or reminding audience members that the MLC “will have an impact on all vessels in the international trades whether their flag state has ratified it or not. The impact on our laws and regulations are minimal and what they do not cover is mostly covered by our collective bargaining agreements. In fact, U.S. laws and regulations exceed most of the provisions provided for under the code.” In closing, he called on the U.S. to ratify the MLC, stating, “As the leader of the free world, the United States has an obligation to ratify and enforce the new convention to assure a level playing field for responsible shipowners and the occupational well-being of the world’s seafarers.” SIU Captain Receives Rare Honor SIU member Capt. Kenneth Graybill has achieved something no mariner had done before. Graybill recently became the first mariner receive Crowley Maritime Corporation’s Thomas Crowley award – an exclusive recognition that only a handful of the company’s 5,300 employees have gotten. Touted as Crowley’s highest honor, the Thomas Crowley Award has been presented to only 54 employees since its establishment in 1985. On Oct. 17, Graybill became the first person in company history to receive the award as a mariner. “It was quite the honor,” Graybill said later. “It feels pretty good.” Presenting the award to Graybill during a ceremony in Jacksonville, Fla., Crowley CEO Tom Crowley Jr.—the grandson of the company’s founder – said the event was meaningful for a variety of reasons. “The honor for Capt. Graybill … takes on additional meaning not only because he is the first seagoing employee to be presented with this award, but also because he was nominated earlier this year by Capt. Vic Goldberg,” Crowley said. Goldberg worked as vice president of marine operations for Crowley’s petroleum transportation group and died unexpectedly in October. In his nomination letter, Goldberg described Graybill as a natural leader. “Capt. Graybill has been the sea trial master for all of [Crowley’s] new ATBs prior to their delivery. This requires long periods away from home during his vacation time,” Goldberg wrote. “Kenny has never refused to help when it is needed. I believe he measures up to all the values that this trophy embodies.” Graybill said Goldberg was never far from his thoughts as he accepted the award. “I was thinking about Capt. Goldberg a lot,” he said. “I was kind of speechless. I kept saying ‘wow’ and ‘thank you.’” Graybill may have earned an unprecedented honor, but those who’ve known and worked with him say they weren’t surprised to hear about it. SIU Tacoma Port Agent Joe Vincenzo said he’s known Graybill for 10 years, adding he’s a living example of how someone can rise to the top of their profession with hard work and help from the SIU. “It’s a big deal to see an SIU member get that award. It speaks straight to the Crowley CEO Tom Crowley Jr. (center) presents the Thomas Crowley Award to SIU member Capt. Kenneth Graybill (left) and Crowley Port Everglades General Manager Sal Menoyo in Jacksonville, Fla. December 2012 heart of the quality of the membership,” Vincenzo said. “Cream rises to the top and he rose to the top. My experience with Ken is he’s been an upstanding member of the union and just a very dependable mate and now captain.” SIU Ft. Lauderdale Port Agent Kris Hopkins, who has also worked with Graybill, said he wasn’t surprised to hear Graybill was being honored, either. Graybill’s reputation, he added, was that of a hard-working and fair guy. “My dealings with him have always been good. My experience with him is he’s a great guy,” Hopkins said. “I could see how he got that award. The people on the crews all seemed to like him.” Graybill, 52, lives in Brunswick, Maine, and has been sailing since 1979. He joined the SIU in 1998 and has worked for Crowley since 2002. He also has upgraded several times at the SIUaffiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, located in Piney Point, Md. “I have family that went to sea – my father and uncles – and I got caught up in that. Where I come from you either went fishing or went to sea,” Graybill said, adding that his family back home was excited to hear about the award. “They’re all proud of me.” Recipients of the Thomas Crowley Award receive a limited edition bronze statue depicting company founder Thomas Crowley ferrying goods to and from ships on San Francisco Bay in the 1890s. According to Crowley’s website, the trophy “serves not only as a tribute to the founder of the company, but also to those honorees who have aligned themselves closely with the company’s values displaying outstanding performance, dedication, leadership and initiative.” Graybill said those characteristics could also describe the SIU and the Seafarers he works with. The award, he added, honors their hard work as well. “We have professional people in our union who do a good job for these companies,” he said. “It shows we have some good mariners.” Union, School Continue Progress on New STCW Training Requirements The SIU and its affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education (PHC) continue to collaborate closely with the U.S. Coast Guard to help foster a seamless transition to the 2010 Amendments to the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW). These amendments establish new endorsements and add and/or revise mariner training requirements. The school’s and union’s efforts to date have been substantial and have included working with the Coast Guard’s National Maritime Center (NMC) to properly update Paul Hall Center courses so they meet the requirements of the amended convention. When this issue of the LOG went to press, two classes (Basic Safety Training Refresher and Electronic Chart Display Information Systems) already had been updated and were approved by the NMC. Several more are expected to be approved in the very near future. “It’s important for Seafarers to remember that the amendments are training requirements, not manning requirements,” pointed out PHC Director of Training J.C. Wiegman. “It’s an evolving process and it will mean some new terminology. For example, a current mariner who renewed his or her document might see a new term liked Able Seafarer Deck. But the first people to really feel the effects will be next year’s trainees.” Wiegman added that Seafarers are welcome to contact the school with questions related to the Manila Amendments. For now though, the Coast Guard has not issued final rules on how the amendments will be implemented, and in any case, they will be phased in over a period of several years. Meanwhile as reported in the November edition of the Seafarers LOG, the Coast Guard in October issued three policy letters offering guidance to mariners and vessel operators that must comply with the new amendments. The first letter, titled “Hours of Rest Policy,” addressed new minimum rest periods for mariners while the second, titled “Security Endorsements Policy,” covered “issuance of endorsements and approval of training for Vessel Personnel with Designated Security Duties (VPDSD) and vessel personnel requiring security awareness training.” The final piece of correspondence, “Endorsements and Training Approval Policy” pointed out that the most recent STCW amendments “establish new endorsements, and revise other existing endorsements.” The current efforts of the union and PHC are driven by requirements outlined in the last two letters. Curriculum experts at the Piney Point, Md.-based PHC are working relentlessly to secure approvals for training courses that meet requirements outlined in the 2010 amendments to the STCW for the following ratings: n Able Seafarer-Deck (AS-D) n Able Seafarer-Engine (AS-E) These endorsements correspond to the domestic rating endorsements of Able Seaman Limited/Unlimited and Qualified Member of the Engine Department (QMED). The 2010 amendments to STCW also revise the requirements for endorsements for personnel serving on oil, chemical, and liquefied gas tank vessels. The Coast Guard will make changes to the verbiage of the STCW endorsements that are currently being issued, and expand the scope of mariners who may qualify for STCW endorsements for service on tank vessels. Mariners who currently hold Tanker Assistant internationally will now see Basic Oil and Chemical Tanker Cargo Operations on their respective endorsements after renewal. Also now listed on international MMC pages, mariners will find the verbiage “Basic Safety Training” written out. The 2010 amendments establish mandatory competency requirements for chief mates, masters, and officers in charge of navigational watches who serve on vessels of 500 gross tons (GT) or more that are equipped with Electronic Chart Display Information Systems (ECDIS). These STCW requirements enter into full effect beginning Jan. 1, 2017. The recent guidance provides for a limitation on the endorsements of mariners who have not met these competency requirements by the 2017 implementation date. In addition to the changes described above, the Coast Guard will begin granting interim approval for the following types of training in anticipation of implementing additional provisions of the 2010 STCW amendments: n Able Seafarer-Deck; n Able Seafarer-Engine; n Leadership and Teamworking Skills; n Leadership and Managerial Skills; n Basic Safety Training Renewal; n Proficiency in Survival Craft Renewal; n Proficiency in Fast Rescue Boats Renewal; n Advanced Fire Fighting Renewal; n Engine Room Resource Management; and n Electronic Chart Display and Information System (ECDIS). The LOG’s coverage of the Manila Amendments will be ongoing. Seafarers LOG 7 �Monthly Membership Meetings Keep Seafarers Informed About Issues Affecting Their Livelihoods Attending monthly membership meetings is a key avenue through which Seafarers can remain current on news that directly affects them. Conducted in SIU halls around the country, these forums keep members aware of important union and maritime issues, many of which could affect their livelihood and those of their family members. Below is the schedule of meetings which will be held in 2013. Each issue of the Seafarers LOG also lists the dates for the next two monthly meetings that have been scheduled for each port. Meeting dates also are posted on the SIU website. 2013 Union Membership Meeting Dates Port Traditional Date January February March April May June July August Piney Point September October November December Monday after first Sunday 7 4 4 8 6 3 8 5 2 7 4 2 New York Tuesday after first Sunday 8 5 5 9 7 4 9 6 3 8 5 3 Philadelphia Wednesday after first Sunday 9 6 6 10 8 5 10 7 4 9 6 4 Baltimore Thursday after first Sunday 10 7 7 11 9 6 11 8 5 10 7 5 Norfolk Thursday after first Sunday 10 7 7 11 9 6 11 8 5 10 7 5 Jacksonville Thursday after first Sunday 10 7 7 11 9 6 11 8 5 10 7 5 San Juan Thursday after first Sunday 10 7 7 11 9 6 11 8 5 10 7 5 Algonac Friday after first Sunday 11 8 8 12 10 7 12 9 6 11 8 6 Houston Monday after second Sunday 14 11 11 15 13 10 15 12 9 *15 *12 9 New Orleans Tuesday after second Sunday 15 12 12 16 14 11 16 13 10 15 12 10 Mobile Wednesday after second Sunday 16 13 13 17 15 12 17 14 11 16 13 11 Oakland Thursday after second Sunday 17 14 14 18 16 13 18 15 12 17 14 12 Port Everglades Thursday after second Sunday 17 14 14 18 16 13 18 15 12 17 14 12 Joliet Thursday after second Sunday 17 14 14 18 16 13 18 15 12 17 14 12 St. Louis Friday after second Sunday 18 15 15 19 17 14 19 16 13 18 15 13 Honolulu Friday after second Sunday 18 15 15 19 17 14 19 16 13 18 15 13 Wilmington Monday after third Sunday *22 *19 18 22 20 17 22 19 16 21 18 16 Guam Thursday after third Sunday 24 21 21 25 23 20 25 22 19 24 21 19 Tacoma Friday after third Sunday 25 22 22 26 24 21 26 23 20 25 22 20 Certain meeting dates were changed from normal dates because of holidays: *Wilmington changes created by Martin Luther King Jr.’s birthday and Presidents’ Day holidays. *Houston changes created by Columbus Day and Veterans Day holidays. Know Your Rights FINANCIAL REPORTS. The Constitution of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/ NMU makes specific provision for safeguarding the membership’s money and union finances. The constitution requires a detailed audit by certified public accountants every year, which is to be submitted to the membership by the secretary-treasurer. A yearly finance committee of rank-and-file members, elected by the membership, each year examines the finances of the union and reports fully their findings and recommendations. Members of this committee may make dissenting reports, specific recommendations and separate findings. TRUST FUNDS. All trust funds of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU are administered in accordance with the provisions of various trust fund agreements. All these agreements specify that the trustees in charge of these funds shall equally consist of union and management representatives and their alternates. All expenditures and disbursements of trust funds are made only upon approval by a majority of the trustees. All trust fund financial records are available at the headquarters of the various trust funds. SHIPPING RIGHTS. A member’s shipping rights and seniority are protected exclusively by contracts between the union and the employers. Members should get to know their shipping rights. Copies of these contracts are posted and available in all union halls. If members believe there have been violations of their shipping or seniority rights as contained in the contracts between the union and the employers, they should notify the Seafarers Appeals Board by certified mail, return receipt requested. The proper address for this is: Augustin Tellez, Chairman Seafarers Appeals Board 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 Full copies of contracts as referred to are available to members at all times, either by writing directly to the union or to the Seafarers Appeals Board. CONTRACTS. Copies of all SIU contracts are available in all SIU halls. These contracts specify the wages and conditions under which an SIU member works and lives aboard a ship or boat. Members should know their contract rights, as well as their obligations, such as filing for overtime (OT) on the proper sheets and in the proper manner. If, at any time, a member believes that an SIU patrolman or other union official fails to protect their contractual rights properly, he or she should contact the nearest SIU port agent. EDITORIAL POLICY — THE SEAFARERS LOG. The Seafarers LOG traditionally has refrained from publishing any article serving the political purposes of any individual in the union, officer or member. It also 8 Seafarers LOG has refrained from publishing articles deemed harmful to the union or its collective membership. This established policy has been reaffirmed by membership action at the September 1960 meetings in all constitutional ports. The responsibility for Seafarers LOG policy is vested in an editorial board which consists of the executive board of the union. The executive board may delegate, from among its ranks, one individual to carry out this responsibility. PAYMENT OF MONIES. No monies are to be paid to anyone in any official capacity in the SIU unless an official union receipt is given for same. Under no circumstances should any member pay any money for any reason unless he is given such receipt. In the event anyone attempts to require any such payment be made without supplying a receipt, or if a member is required to make a payment and is given an official receipt, but feels that he or she should not have been required to make such payment, this should immediately be reported to union headquarters. CONSTITUTIONAL RIGHTS AND OBLIGATIONS. Copies of the SIU Constitution are available in all union halls. All members should obtain copies of this constitution so as to familiarize themselves with its contents. Any time a member feels any other member or officer is attempting to deprive him or her of any constitutional right or obligation by any methods, such as dealing with charges, trials, etc., as well as all other details, the member so affected should immediately notify headquarters. EQUAL RIGHTS. All members are guaranteed equal rights in employment and as members of the SIU. These rights are clearly set forth in the SIU Constitution and in the contracts which the union has negotiated with the employers. Consequently, no member may be discriminated against because of race, creed, color, sex, national or geographic origin. If any member feels that he or she is denied the equal rights to which he or she is entitled, the member should notify union headquarters. MEMBER RIGHTS/LMRDA. The Labor-Management Reporting and Disclosure Act (LMRDA) guarantees certain rights to union members and imposes certain responsibilities on union officers. The Office of Labor-Management Standards (OLMS) enforces many LMRDA provisions while other provisions, such as the bill of rights, may only be enforced by union members through private suit in Federal court. Union Member Rights Bill of Rights: Union members have equal rights to participate in union activities; freedom of speech and assembly; a voice in setting rates of dues, fees and assessments; protection of the right to sue; and safeguards against improper discipline. Copies of Collective Bargaining Agreements: Union members and nonunion employees have the right to receive or inspect copies of collective bargaining agreements. Reports: Unions are required to file an initial information report (Form LM-1), copies of constitutions and bylaws, and an annual financial report (Form LM-2/3/4) with OLMS. Unions must make the reports available to members and permit members to examine supporting records for just cause. The reports are public information and copies are available from OLMS. Officer Elections: Union members have the right to nominate candidates for office; run for office; cast a secret ballot; and protest the conduct of an election. Officer Removal: Local union members have the right to an adequate procedure for the removal of an elected officer guilty of serious misconduct. Trusteeships: Unions may only be placed in trusteeship by a parent body for the reasons specified in the LMRDA. Prohibition Against Violence: No one may use or threaten to use force or violence to interfere with a union member in the exercise of LMRDA rights. Union Officer Responsibilities Financial Safeguards: Union officers have a duty to manage the funds and property of the union solely for the benefit of the union and its members in accordance with the union’s constitution and bylaws. Union officers or employees who embezzle or steal union funds or other assets commit a Federal crime punishable by a fine and/ or imprisonment. Bonding: Union officers or employees who handle union funds or property must be bonded to provide protection against losses if their union has property and annual financial receipts which exceed $5,000. Labor Organization Reports: Union officers must file an initial information report (Form LM-1) and annual financial reports (Forms LM-2/3/4) with OLMS; and retain the records necessary to verify the reports for at least five years. Officer Reports: Union officers and employees must file reports concerning any loans and benefits received from, or certain financial interests in, employers whose employees their unions represent and businesses that deal with their unions. Officer Elections: Unions must hold elections of officers of local unions by secret ballot at least every three years; conduct regular elections in accordance with their constitution and bylaws and preserve all records for one year; mail a notice of election to every member at least 15 days prior to the election; comply with a candidate’s request to distribute campaign material; not use union funds or resources to promote any candidate (nor may employer funds or resources be used); permit candidates to have election observers; and allow candidates to inspect the union’s membership list once within 30 days prior to the election. Restrictions on Holding Office: A person convicted of certain crimes may not serve as a union officer, employee or other representative of a union for up to 13 years. Loans: A union may not have outstanding loans to any one officer or employee that in total exceed $2,000 at any time. Fines: A union may not pay the fine of any officer or employee convicted of any willful violation of the LMRDA. (Note: The above is only a summary of the LMRDA. Full text of the Act, which comprises Sections 401-531 of Title 29 of the United States Code, may be found in many public libraries, or by writing the U.S. Department of Labor, Office of Labor-Management Standards, 200 Constitution Ave., NW, Room N-5616, Washington, DC 20210, or on the internet at www.dol.gov.) SEAFARERS POLITICAL ACTIVITY DONATION — SPAD. SPAD is a separate segregated fund. Its proceeds are used to further its objects and purposes including, but not limited to, furthering the political, social and economic interests of maritime workers, the preservation and furthering of the American merchant marine with improved employment opportunities for seamen and boatmen and the advancement of trade union concepts. In connection with such objects, SPAD supports and contributes to political candidates for elective office. All contributions are voluntary. No contribution may be solicited or received because of force, job discrimination, financial reprisal, or threat of such conduct, or as a condition of membership in the union or of employment. If a contribution is made by reason of the above improper conduct, the member should notify the Seafarers International Union or SPAD by certified mail within 30 days of the contribution for investigation and appropriate action and refund, if involuntary. A member should support SPAD to protect and further his or her economic, political and social interests, and American trade union concepts. NOTIFYING THE UNION — If at any time a member feels that any of the above rights have been violated, or that he or she has been denied the constitutional right of access to union records or information, the member should immediately notify SIU President Michael Sacco at headquarters by certified mail, return receipt requested. The address is: Michael Sacco, President Seafarers International Union 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 December 2012 �The USNS Henson is pictured in the Bay of Morotai, Indonesia. USNS Henson Boosts International Relations SIU Crew Members Greet Indonesian President, Other Dignitaries A crew consisting of several excited SIU members recently took part in an international event that had them interacting with foreign heads of state and other high-ranking officials and dignitaries. The Seafarers-crewed Military Sealift Command (MSC) oceanographic survey ship USNS Henson joined vessels from Indonesia, Australia and Singapore near Morotai Island, Indonesia, Sept. 15 in a formation exercise commemorating an important World War II battle. Sixty-eight years earlier, U.S. forces led by Army Gen. Douglas MacArthur fought off Japanese troops on Morotai Island, allowing the establishment of airstrips and other military facilities that played a major role in the liberation of the Philippines from Japanese occupation. The recent exercise commemorating that event had the Henson joining other vessels in a carefully choreographed “parade of ships.” Positioned fourth in the column, the Henson passed within 100 yards of dignitaries and the “podium of honor” upon which Indonesian President Bambang Yudhoyono was positioned. The Henson’s crew joined a uniform liaison officer from the Indonesian Navy in manning the rails and saluting the president and dignitaries as the ship passed. MDR Brandon Maeda said he and the rest of the Henson’s crew were honored to take part in something of such importance. “It was the first time I was ever involved in a parade of ships and small craft of all sizes,” he said. “We represented the U.S., so it was a great honor and I have to say that it was very exciting for everyone in the crew.” MSC oceanographic survey ships have a long-standing relationship with the Indonesian Navy. The U.S. Naval Oceanographic Office (NAVOCEANO) has completed more than 200 joint survey missions to aid in the navigation of Indonesia’s territorial waters. “USNS Henson was the perfect choice to represent the U.S. Navy in this important event,” said Capt. Greg Gillotte, who serves as the Henson’s civilian master. “This sail exercise demonstrates our continued commitment to our Indonesian partner.” Calvin Martin, NAVOCEANO’s program representative for Southeast Asia, said such exercises have a real impact on QMED Noli Aguirre Storekeeper Noel Cunanan QMED Michael Durago The Island of Morotai, Indonesia, is seen from the Henson. December 2012 international relations. Aside from the high-ranking Indonesian officials, Rear Adm. Hugh Wetherald, deputy chief of staff for plans, policies and requirements, U.S. Pacific Fleet was also in attendance. “Our hope is that participating in this formation exercise will continue to build relations and possibly lead to more cooperation in the future,” Martin said. September’s hour-long exercise was the result of several days’ worth of coordination with Indonesian officials both aboard the ship and ashore. For the Henson, the exercise included constant minor course and speed changes to ensure its successful execution. Gillotte used the ship’s state-of-the-art dynamic position system – a computer-controlled steering system operated by joystick on the bridge that maneuvers the ship via rotating propellers instead of a traditional rudder. Gillotte thanked the crew for their hard work, praising the skill it took to pull off such an important exercise. “Each member of my crew makes an important contribution to the success of every mission and this sail exercise was no exception,” he said. Bosun Louis Sorito AB Gary Turner Chief Steward Peter Williams Chief Cook Robert Borro MDR Brandon Maeda AB Tracy Austin AB Ricky Hernandez OS Rico Ecalnir OS Todd Kasler GVA Jesus Derramas GVA Sabrina Long Seafarers LOG 9 �Union-Supported Candidates Claim Election Victories CIVMARS Get Particulars of CMPI 610 Continued from Page 2 “This year the labor program was able to reach beyond union members, powering a person-to-person ground effort that reached out to other working families in our communities,” Trumka said, adding that grassroots work made all the difference in battleground states like Ohio, Wisconsin, Pennsylvania and Virginia. “By a huge majority, people believe President Obama will help working people while they saw Mitt Romney as more interested in helping the wealthy.” That was certainly the case in Virginia, said Kermett Mangram, SIU vice president Government Services. Mangram led a team of Seafarers and other volunteers as part of an aggressive grassroots outreach program. Joining up with the local AFL-CIO team, Seafarers in Virginia volunteered at phone banks, registered voters, put up signs and did everything they could to elect pro-worker candidates. “It did pretty well and we had a lot of people voting. Our members were great,” Mangram said. “Everybody helped out and everybody did their part. I think we had an impact.” Motivating the volunteers, Mangram added, was the sense that a victory by antiworker candidates would have a serious impact on the jobs of union workers. “They were working for their future,” Mangram said. “I didn’t see where we could just go down and do nothing.” Created in August 2011, the AFL-CIO’s national voter outreach program had 400,000 volunteers making more than 80 million phone calls to working class households, knocking on more than 14 million doors and having conversations with more than 3 million employees in the workplace. The program also sent out more than 75 million pieces of mail and registered more than 450,000 union members to vote. “We’re proud to see what difference our efforts made in key states like Ohio, Wisconsin and Nevada,” Trumka said. While the election of union-supported candidates was seen as a victory, SIU officials say they will still continue to keep close ties to Washington. The threats against cargo preference, the Jones Act and collective bargaining are always there, Schoeneman said, and the SIU and others will continue to look out for working people. “We’re going to have to stay vigilant,” he said. That spirit was also seen in the post-election meeting labor leaders, including Trumka, held with Obama a week after the election. Discussing the country’s economic future, Trumka said he and the other labor officials were confident things were looking up for working people. The president, Trumka said, assured labor leaders that middle-class voters would not have to shoulder any further tax cuts for the wealthy or cuts in essential government programs. “We are very, very committed to making sure that the middle class and workers don’t end up paying the tab for a party we didn’t get to go to and the president is committed to that as well,” he said. Summary Annual Report For Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan This is a summary of the annual report for the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan, (Employer Identification No. 13-5557534, Plan No. 501) for the period January 1, 2011 to December 31, 2011. The annual report has been filed with the Employee Benefits Security Administration, as required under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA). Basic Financial Statement The value of plan assets, after subtracting 10 Seafarers LOG Members gather aboard the USS Ponce in Bahrain. As reported in detail in the September LOG, the updated Civilian Marine Personnel Instruction (CMPI) 610 features numerous improvements secured through long negotiations. Union officials in recent months visited SIU CIVMARS on vessels around the world to help explain the updates and to assist in the full implementation of the Instruction. These photos of SIU Government Services Division crews were taken during some of those shipboard meetings. Additional photos will be published in an upcoming issue. (Thanks to SIU Government Services Division Representative Kate Hunt, second from left in the USNS Lenthall photo, for submitting the images.) A related video produced by the Military Sealift Command is available on the SIU website, www.seafarers.org. USNS John Lenthall Souda Bay, Crete USNS Big Horn Bahrain liabilities of the plan, was $71,301,754 as of December 31, 2011 compared to $61,236,749 as of January 1, 2011. During the plan year the plan experienced an increase in its net assets of $10,065,005. This increase includes unrealized appreciation or depreciation in the value of plan assets; that is, the difference between the value of the plan’s assets at the end of the year and the value of the assets at the beginning of the year, or the cost of assets acquired during the year. During the plan year, the plan had total income of $62,611,306. This income included employer contributions of $58,141,205, employee contributions of $569,600, realized gains of $231,461 from the sale of assets and earnings from investments of $3,543,008. Plan expenses were $52,546,301. These expenses included $11,049,991 in administrative expenses and $41,496,310 in benefits paid to participants and beneficiaries. Your Rights to Additional Information You have the right to receive a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, on request. The items listed below are included in that report: 1. An accountant’s report; 2. Assets held for investment; and 3. Transactions in excess of 5 percent of the plan assets. To obtain a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, write or call the office of Margaret Bowen, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746, (301) 899-0675. You also have the right to receive from the plan administrator, on request and at no charge, a statement of the assets and liabilities of the plan and accompanying notes, or a statement of income and expenses of the plan and accompanying notes, or both. If you request a copy of the full annual report from the plan administrator, these two statements and accompanying notes will be included as part of that report. These portions of the report are furnished without charge. You also have the legally protected right to examine the annual report at the main office of the plan: Plan Office, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746, and at the U.S. Department of Labor in Washington, D.C., or to obtain a copy from the U.S. Department of Labor upon payment of copying costs. Requests to the Department should be addressed to: U.S. Department of Labor, Employee Benefits Security Administration, Public Disclosure Room, 200 Constitution Avenue, NW, Suite N-1513, Washington, D.C., 20210. December 2012 �SHBP Offers $132,000 for 2013 Educational Scholarships Union Encourages Seafarers, Dependents to Apply Today’s skyrocketing tuition costs, state budget cuts, volatile economy and growing numbers of applicants each contribute to the stress levels experienced by students who are contemplating attending college. In-state tuition costs at four-year public colleges increased by 15 percent from 2008-09 to 2010-11, according to college affordability data released in June by the U.S. Department of Education. Further, the data revealed, tuition at community colleges increased by 16.6 percent and by 9.7 percent at four-year non-profit colleges. Hikes of 8.1, 13.5 and 12.6 percent were posted by four-year for-profit, two-year non-profit and two-year forprofit colleges, respectively, during the same period. If those numbers seem daunting, the good news for Seafarers and their dependents looking to further their educations is that financial help is available through the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan (SHPB), which each year offers scholarships to qualified applicants. Designed to ease the financial challenges associated with college and vocational studies, the 2013 SHBP Scholarship Program will offer eight awards totaling $132,000. Three scholarships will be designated for Seafarers while five will be targeted for spouses and dependents. One of the endowments reserved for Seafarers totals $20,000 and is intended to help defray the costs associated with attending a four-year, college-level course of study. The remaining two are in the amount of $6,000 each and are designed as two-year awards for study at a postsecondary vocational school or community college. Each of the five scholarships for spouses and dependents is for $20,000. Now is an ideal time to begin the application process. The first step is to send for the 2013 SHBP Scholarship Program booklet. The package contains eligibility information, procedures for applying for the scholarships and an application form. To obtain a copy of this handout, simply complete the form which appears on this page and return it to the address provided. As an alternative to requesting a package through the mail, they also are available at SIU halls. Once the scholarship booklet has been received, applicants should check the eligibility criteria. They should also begin collecting and assembling the remainder of the paperwork needed to submit with the full application, which must be received by April 15, 2013. Items that need to be incorporated in the final application package include transcripts and certificates of graduation. Since some institutions respond slowly in handling transcript needs, requests should be made as early as possible. Letters of recommendation – solicited from individuals who know the applicant’s character, personality and career goals – should be included as part of the application package. A high-quality photograph and a certified copy of the applicant’s birth certificate are also required and should accompany the package. A scholarship selection committee, consisting of a panel of professional educators, will examine the high school grades of all applicants as well as evaluate scores from their Scholastic Aptitude Tests (SAT) and American College Tests (ACT). Accordingly, arrangements should be made by applicants who have not done so to take these tests no later than February 2013. Doing so will virtually assure that the results reach the evaluation committee in time for review. Seafarers and dependents who previously applied for the scholarship program and were not selected are encouraged to apply again this year, provided they still meet the eligibility requirements. Don’t let the rapidly increasing costs of higher education prevent you from Please send me the 2013 SHBP Scholarship Program Booklet which contains eligibility information, procedures for applying and a copy of the application form. Name.................................................................................................................................................................................................. Street Address................................................................................................................................................................................... City, State, Zip Code......................................................................................................................................................................... Telephone Number ( ) ................................................................................................................................................................ This application is for: Mail this completed form to: Union Plus Makes Funds Available To Prospective College Bound Students o Self o Dependent Scholarship Program Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 Applications are being accepted for the 2013 Union Plus Scholarship Program, which provides $150,000 in scholarships to union members, their spouses and dependents. SIU members, retirees and their dependents are eligible to apply because of the union’s participation in Union Plus, which is part of the AFL-CIO. This year’s application is entirely online—which will allow students to complete their applications over a period of time and save their responses. To apply, interested individuals should visit UnionPlus.org/Education. The application deadline is January 31, 2013. Eligibility Requirements In addition to demonstrating academic ability, all applicants are required to submit essays of no more than 500 words describing their career goals, detailing their relationship with the union movement and explaining why they are deserving of a union scholarship. In addition, individuals applying must be accepted into an accredited college or university, community college or recognized technical or trade school at the time the award is issued. Graduate school students are also eligible for Union Plus Scholarships. There is no requirement to have participated in any Union Plus pro- December 2012 realizing your goals. The SHBP Scholarship Program can make the same difference for you that it has made for other Seafarers and dependents. In the last nine years alone, the SHBP has awarded more than $1 million in scholarships to 68 college-bound individuals –18 Seafarers and 50 dependents. gram in order to apply. Union Plus since 1991 has distributed more than $3.2 million in scholarships to working families. In addition to the Union Plus Scholarships, the following benefits are available to help union families afford higher education: n Scholarships to help union members and leaders finish their degrees with an affordable, flexible and convenient online program at the National Labor College. n Discounts of 15 to 60 percent on college and graduate school test preparation courses from The Princeton Review. Includes classroom, online and private tutoring for the SAT, ACT, GMAT, LSAT, GRE and MCAT, as well as college affordability and admissions online courses. Interested individuals may visit UnionPlus.org/ CollegePrep or call 1-888-243-7737 for more information. Applications and eligibility requirements for these two benefits are available at UnionPlus.org/Education. Other Union Plus programs include mortgages, insurance protection and money-saving offers on flowers, car rentals and AT&T wireless service. Union members and their families may visit UnionPlus.org for more information. Seafarers LOG 11 �Therman Ames Cape Wrath AB Al Barnett Cape Wrath SA Raul Ventanilla Tyco Dependable Seafarer Snapshots from Baltimore Recertified Bosun Rick James Cape Washington These photos of SIU members at work in Baltimore were taken on Election Day – with the exception of the pictures from the Endurance, which were snapped in mid-October. QMED Bob Oppel Cape Wrath Electrician Dave Sexton Cape Washington GUDE Michael Alghafeili Cape Washington Recertified Steward Emmanuel Laureta Tyco Dependable Recertified Bosun Trevorous Ellision (left), Port Agent Elizabeth Brown and Recertified Steward Howard Lewis are pictured aboard the Endurance. AB Mariette Wright Cape Washington Recertified Bosun Billy Dowzicky Cape Wrath 12 Seafarers LOG Among the SIU members pictured aboard the Tyco Dependable are Emmanuel Laureta, John Salarda, Romeo MacAraeg Jr., Leonardo Cortez, Albert Beneman, Raul Ventanilla, Jermin Matthews, Clovis Pomare, Todd Conley, Joselito Vicente, Cecilio Banga, Jose Bautista and Jerry Dingal. Port Agent Elizabeth Brown is standing at far right. December 2012 December 2012 Seafarers LOG 13 �12/12 14 Seafarers LOG December 2012 �Union Plus Plus Assists Assists Storm Storm Victims Victims Union Shortly after Hurricane Sandy struck the East Coast, Union Plus Shortly after after Hurricane of Sandy struck therelief East grants Coast,“to Union Plus announced the availability $500struck disaster helpPlus eliShortly Hurricane Sandy the East Coast, Union announced the availability availability of $500 $500 disaster relief Insurance grants “to “to or help eligible participants in the Union Plusdisaster Credit Card, Mortannounced the of relief grants help eligible participants in are the facing Union financial Plus Credit Credit Card, Insurance Insurance or Mortgage programs who hardship due to the or disaster. gible participants in the Union Plus Card, Mortgage programs who are facing financial hardship due to to to thethe disaster. The money doeswho not are have to be financial repaid. Funds are limited nearly gage programs facing hardship due the disaster. The moneyavailable does not notin have to be repaid. repaid. Funds are are limited to the the nearly nearly $370,000 the to Union Plus Disaster Relief Fund.” The money does have be Funds limited to $370,000 available in the the Plus Disaster Relief Relief Fund.” In order to qualify for Union aUnion grant,Plus an individual must:Fund.” $370,000 available in Disaster In order to qualify qualify for grant, an individual individual must: Have been a victimfor ofaathe severe weather inmust: counties designated In order to grant, an Have been been victim of of the severe weather weather in counties counties designated by FEMA as qualifying forthe individual assistance. (List ofdesignated qualifying Have aa victim severe in by FEMAavailable as qualifying qualifying for individual individual assistance. assistance. (List (List of of qualifying qualifying counties at UnionPlus.org/Sandy.) by FEMA as for counties available at UnionPlus.org/Sandy.) UnionPlus.org/Sandy.) Have available experienced a significant loss of income or property within counties at Have experienced significant loss of of income income or or property property within within the Have last six months dueaa to the disaster. experienced significant loss the Have last six six months duePlus to the the disaster. had a Union Credit Card, Union Plus Insurance policy the last months due to disaster. Have had had Union Plus Plusfor Credit Card, Union Plus Insurance policy or Union Plusaa Mortgage at least 12 Union monthsPlus with the account or Have Union Credit Card, Insurance policy or Union Plus Mortgage Mortgage forup-to-date at least least 12 12onmonths months with the the account account or or policy in good standing (be payments). or Union Plus for at with policy in good good standing (be up-to-date up-to-date on on payments). Describe hisstanding or her circumstances andpayments). document the income or policy in (be Describe his or or her her circumstances circumstances and and document document the the income income or or property loss.his Describe property loss.for a disaster relief grant, union members who particiTo apply property loss. Toinapply apply forthe disaster relief grant, union unioncall: members who participateTo any offor following programs may Unionwho PlusparticiCredit aa disaster relief grant, members pate in1-877-761-5028; any of of the the following following programs may call: call:1-800-472-2005; Union Plus Plus Credit Credit Card:in Union Plus Insurance: or pate any programs may Union Card: 1-877-761-5028; Union Plus Plus Insurance: Insurance: 1-800-472-2005; 1-800-472-2005; or or Union1-877-761-5028; Plus Mortgage: 1-800-472-2005. Card: Union Union PlusPlus Mortgage: 1-800-472-2005. Union Credit 1-800-472-2005. Card also may contact Capital One, the new Union Plus Mortgage: Union Plus Credit Card also may contact Capital Capital One, theaddinew Union PlusPlus Credit CardCard issuer, at may 1-877-761-5028, if they need Union Credit also contact One, the new Union Plus Credit CreditCapital Card issuer, issuer, at 1-877-761-5028, 1-877-761-5028, if to they need additional assistance. One has programs in place help customUnion Plus Card at if they need additional assistance. Capital One One has programs programs in place place to help help customcustomers who are experiencing difficulties due to the storm. tional assistance. Capital has in to ers Union who are are experiencing difficulties due to to anyone the storm. storm. Plus Mortgage holders, including who is in the proers who experiencing difficulties due the Union Plus Mortgage Mortgage holders, including anyone who is is in in the the processUnion of receiving a new Union Plusincluding mortgage, are encouraged to conPlus holders, anyone who process of receiving receiving new Union Union Plus mortgage, are encouraged encouraged to concontact Chase, who provides Union Plus Mortgages, at 1-888-356-0023 cess of aa new Plus mortgage, are to tact Chase, who provides provides Union Union Plus Mortgages, Mortgages, atand 1-888-356-0023 or tweet @ChaseSupport, for additional assistanceat information. tact Chase, who Plus 1-888-356-0023 or tweet tweet @ChaseSupport, for additional additional assistance and benefits, information. For more information about the Unionassistance Plus disaster visit or @ChaseSupport, for and information. For more more information information about about the the Union Union Plus Plus disaster disaster benefits, benefits, visit visit UnionPlus.org/Sandy. For UnionPlus.org/Sandy. UnionPlus.org/Sandy. January && & February February 2013 2013 January January February 2013 Membership Meetings Meetings Membership Membership Meetings Piney Point........................Monday: January 7, February 4 Piney Point........................Monday: January 7, February 4 Algonac...............................Friday: January 11, February 8 Algonac...............................Friday: January 11, February 8 Baltimore........................Thursday: January 10, February 7 Baltimore........................Thursday: January 10, February 7 Guam...........................Thursday: January 24, February 21 Guam...........................Thursday: January 24, February 21 Honolulu...........................Friday: January 18, February 15 Honolulu...........................Friday: January 18, February 15 Houston..........................Monday: January 14, February 11 Houston..........................Monday: January 14, February 11 Jacksonville....................Thursday: January 10, February 7 Jacksonville....................Thursday: January 10, February 7 Joliet................................Thursday: January 17, February 14 Joliet................................Thursday: January 17, February 14 Mobile..............................Wednesday: January 16, February 13 Mobile..............................Wednesday: January 16, February 13 New Orleans.........................Tuesday: January 15, February 12 New Orleans.........................Tuesday: January 15, February 12 New York............................Tuesday: January 8, February 5 New York............................Tuesday: January 8, February 5 Norfolk..........................Thursday: January 10, February 7 Norfolk..........................Thursday: January 10, February 7 Oakland...............................Thursday: January 17, February 14 Oakland...............................Thursday: January 17, February 14 Philadelphia.......................Wednesday: January 9, February 6 Philadelphia.......................Wednesday: January 9, February 6 Port Everglades............Thursday: January 17, February 14 Port Everglades............Thursday: January 17, February 14 San Juan.............................Thursday: January 10, February 7 San Juan.............................Thursday: January 10, February 7 St. Louis................................Friday: January 18, February 15 St. Louis................................Friday: January 18, February 15 Tacoma..............................Friday: January 25, February 22 Tacoma..............................Friday: January 25, February 22 Wilmington...........*Tuesday: January 22 *Tuesday: February 19 Wilmington...........*Tuesday: January 22 *Tuesday: February 19 * Wilmington changes created by Matrin Luther King Jr.’s * Wilmington changes created by Matrin Luther King Jr.’s birthday and Presidents Day holidays. birthday and Presidents Day holidays. Each port’s meeting starts at 10:30 a.m. Each port’s meeting starts at 10:30 a.m. Attention: Seafarers Seafarers Attention: Another New New Ship! Ship! Another SPAD SPAD Works For For Works You! You! Contribute To The Contribute To The Donation Seafarers Political Activities Seafarers Political Activities Donation December 2012 December 2012 Dispatchers’ Report Report for for Deep Deep Sea Sea Dispatchers’ October 16, 2012 - November 15, 2012 October 16, 2012 - November 15, 2012 Port Port Total Registered Total All Registered Groups A All Groups B C A B C Algonac Algonac Anchorage Anchorage Baltimore Baltimore Fort auderdale L auderdale L Fort Lauderdale Guam Guam Honolulu Honolulu Houston Houston Jacksonville Jacksonville Joliet Joliet Mobile Mobile New rleans O rleans New New Orleans ork YO ork Y New York Norfolk Norfolk Oakland Oakland Philadelphia Philadelphia Piney oint P oint Piney PuertoPoint ico PR ico R Puerto TacomaRico Tacoma St. ouis L ouis L St. Louis Wilmington Wilmington TOTALS TOTALS 13 13 0 07 711 11 3 310 10 45 45 37 37 3 317 17 10 10 33 33 18 18 26 26 7 70 09 930 30 3 331 31 313 313 10 10 1 19 910 10 6 61 113 13 20 20 5 54 41 119 19 22 22 8 83 31 112 12 10 10 2 213 13 170 170 0 01 11 12 21 10 01 14 41 11 12 26 66 64 41 10 01 14 43 31 140 40 Algonac Algonac Anchorage Anchorage Baltimore Baltimore Fort auderdale L auderdale L Fort Lauderdale Guam Guam Honolulu Honolulu Houston Houston Jacksonville Jacksonville Joliet Joliet Mobile Mobile New rleans O rleans New New Orleans ork O Y ork Y New York Norfolk Norfolk Oakland Oakland Philadelphia Philadelphia Piney oint P oint Piney PuertoPoint ico PR ico R Puerto TacomaRico Tacoma St. ouis L ouis L St. Louis Wilmington Wilmington TOTALS TOTALS 0 00 03 38 82 29 912 12 14 14 5 512 12 6 613 13 13 13 12 12 3 33 32 216 16 2 29 9144 144 4 40 04 46 60 03 314 14 16 16 2 26 63 38 817 17 11 11 3 33 36 68 80 011 11 125 125 1 11 10 03 31 10 02 23 31 11 10 00 04 40 00 00 02 20 00 01 120 20 Algonac Algonac Anchorage Anchorage Baltimore Baltimore Fort auderdale L auderdale L Fort Lauderdale Guam Guam Honolulu Honolulu Houston Houston Jacksonville Jacksonville Joliet Joliet Mobile Mobile New rleans O rleans New New Orleans ork YO ork Y New York Norfolk Norfolk Oakland Oakland Philadelphia Philadelphia Piney oint P oint Piney PuertoPoint ico PR ico R Puerto TacomaRico Tacoma St. ouis L ouis L St. Louis Wilmington Wilmington TOTALS TOTALS 1 10 03 311 11 0 013 13 15 15 19 19 1 11 14 418 18 8 817 17 3 36 62 215 15 1 119 19 157 157 1 12 22 22 21 13 38 83 32 22 21 18 88 84 40 03 32 22 21 11 156 56 0 01 10 01 10 01 10 00 00 02 21 10 01 11 12 20 01 10 00 01 112 12 Algonac Algonac Anchorage Anchorage Baltimore Baltimore Fort auderdale L auderdale L Fort Lauderdale Guam Guam Honolulu Honolulu Houston Houston Jacksonville Jacksonville Joliet Joliet Mobile Mobile New rleans O rleans New New Orleans ork YO ork Y New York Norfolk Norfolk Oakland Oakland Philadelphia Philadelphia Piney oint P oint Piney PuertoPoint ico PR ico R Puerto TacomaRico Tacoma St. ouis L ouis L St. Louis Wilmington Wilmington TOTALS TOTALS GRAND OTAL: T OTAL: T GRAND TOTAL: 2 20 00 01 10 01 12 22 20 00 02 24 40 03 30 00 00 04 40 03 324 24 638 638 6 64 42 25 51 15 515 15 16 16 1 12 21 113 13 24 24 15 15 1 13 30 012 12 2 28 8136 136 487 487 9 91 13 31 10 06 67 78 80 01 11 114 14 19 19 11 11 2 24 40 04 40 07 798 98 170 170 Total Shipped Total Shipped All Groups A All Groups B A B Deck Department Deck 8 Department 10 82 10 0 25 05 512 513 12 13 3 2 34 21 436 112 36 12 32 22 32 22 2 6 29 64 98 42 829 222 29 22 13 15 13 15 15 6 15 66 2 20 61 06 14 624 45 24 53 0 021 311 21 11 231 150 231 150 Engine Department Engine 3 Department 1 30 10 03 06 35 62 51 20 15 04 510 411 10 11 22 11 22 11 2 2 23 21 32 12 210 25 10 512 13 13 12 9 5 94 51 41 10 10 05 013 55 13 50 2 26 08 6114 881 114 81 Steward Department Steward 1 Department 2 10 20 01 03 112 30 12 01 1 18 13 810 34 10 48 16 16 81 0 03 10 34 01 424 12 24 210 4 414 10 3 14 32 1 13 21 31 11 19 13 90 31 022 11 22 147 134 134 47 Entry Department Entry 0 Department 7 00 70 00 01 00 15 00 50 01 01 11 16 12 616 20 16 1 01 11 10 11 03 115 30 15 8 00 88 00 81 00 13 00 30 01 07 10 70 03 08 312 889 12 89 491 367 491 367 C C Trip Trip Reliefs Reliefs Registered on Beach Registered on Beach All Groups AAll Groups B C A B C 1 10 00 00 00 00 00 00 02 21 10 03 32 21 10 00 00 01 10 00 011 11 3 32 20 012 12 0 02 217 17 19 19 0 04 44 418 18 4 49 92 20 02 217 17 0 014 14 129 129 13 13 1 111 11 18 18 3 321 21 92 92 57 57 7 717 17 23 23 78 78 31 31 49 49 8 81 116 16 65 65 5 569 69 585 585 11 11 1 19 917 17 11 11 9 923 23 39 39 6 63 35 527 27 39 39 16 16 5 54 412 12 29 29 0 041 41 307 307 0 01 13 36 63 31 16 66 62 26 63 35 511 11 6 61 10 04 46 64 48 882 82 1 10 01 10 00 00 02 20 01 10 00 01 11 11 11 10 01 10 00 01 111 11 0 00 01 11 10 01 18 810 10 1 10 01 17 74 47 73 30 03 37 70 01 155 55 2 20 05 514 14 2 214 14 30 30 35 35 6 614 14 12 12 27 27 19 19 23 23 2 24 44 433 33 1 125 25 272 272 7 71 16 610 10 0 05 513 13 38 38 1 15 54 416 16 24 24 10 10 3 32 215 15 17 17 1 132 32 210 210 0 01 12 23 31 10 03 36 61 12 20 04 46 61 10 00 02 22 22 27 743 43 1 10 00 00 00 01 10 00 00 00 00 00 00 01 11 10 00 00 00 01 15 5 1 10 01 16 60 04 42 28 80 00 03 311 11 4 45 51 11 10 05 50 015 15 67 67 3 30 07 711 11 1 119 19 34 34 30 30 2 24 412 12 26 26 20 20 23 23 5 56 66 629 29 2 248 48 288 288 2 22 21 17 71 12 214 14 6 65 55 53 314 14 14 14 6 60 02 21 14 42 24 495 95 3 31 10 01 11 10 02 21 10 03 33 30 01 15 51 10 01 10 00 01 124 24 8 80 06 60 00 00 00 06 60 00 01 116 16 9 94 41 11 10 01 10 03 356 56 83 83 0 00 00 01 10 01 12 23 30 00 00 02 21 14 40 01 10 02 20 05 522 22 273 273 4 40 01 11 10 03 36 64 40 00 02 212 12 0 06 60 00 02 24 40 014 14 59 59 1,204 1,204 15 15 3 33 310 10 2 26 630 30 28 28 0 03 35 549 49 38 38 23 23 0 05 50 020 20 2 242 42 284 284 896 896 23 23 1 18 82 20 013 13 10 10 14 14 2 21 14 423 23 51 51 17 17 1 16 60 07 70 031 31 214 214 363 363 Seafarers LOG 15 Seafarers LOG 15 �Inquiring Seafarer Seafarers International Union Directory Michael Sacco, President Augustin Tellez, Executive Vice President David Heindel, Secretary-Treasurer George Tricker, Vice President Contracts Tom Orzechowski, Vice President Lakes and Inland Waters Dean Corgey, Vice President Gulf Coast Nicholas J. Marrone, Vice President West Coast Joseph T. Soresi, Vice President Atlantic Coast Kermett Mangram, Vice President Government Services HEADQUARTERS 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746 (301) 899-0675 ALGONAC 520 St. Clair River Dr., Algonac, MI 48001 (810) 794-4988 ANCHORAGE 721 Sesame St., #1C, Anchorage, AK 99503 (907) 561-4988 BALTIMORE 2315 Essex St., Baltimore, MD 21224 (410) 327-4900 GUAM P.O. Box 3328, Hagatna, Guam 96932 Cliffline Office Ctr. Bldg., Suite 103B 422 West O’Brien Dr., Hagatna, Guam 96910 (671) 477-1350 Editor’s note: This month’s question was answered by Seafarers aboard vessels in Baltimore (the Cape Wrath, Cape Washington and Tyco Dependable). weeks in Casablanca, New Zealand, Thailand. Now, if you get 24 hours, you brag about it. But it has worked out pretty good for me. Question: Why did you enter this industry, and why have you stuck with it? Juan Amaya GUDE I had sailed with MSC before, and came to the SIU in 2009. This is really working out for me – I have more time with my family and I feel great about being in the SIU. I’ve stuck with it because I have to work, but I like it, too. The best part is I get along with the guys. Al Barnett AB Next June will be 40 years since my first SIU ship, the Steel Advocate out of Brooklyn. I guess it kind of grew on me. Back then, there was time in port: two HONOLULU 606 Kalihi St., Honolulu, HI 96819 (808) 845-5222 Mariette Wright AB I love the water and the work. It’s a fascinating job; you meet new people, see new places. I’m on an ROS ship now, so that may sound silly, but that’s why I stayed. This industry offers a freedom that most jobs don’t have. You meet people from every walk of life, and in general, seamen are very sociable people. here 40 years. This is a beautiful country and I like this job. I like everything about it. Dave Sexton Electrician First I went to sea with the Navy in 1970, then the MSC in 1981 Jermin Matthews Chief Cook My whole family has sailed ships. My father did it, his father did it. It’s part of the family. I like it because I get to do what I enjoy, which is cooking. I like the fact that we’re traveling and we only work a few months a year. I get to be with my family a lot. Michael Alghafeili GUDE I came to this country (from Yemen) on the sea and I’ve been HOUSTON 1221 Pierce St., Houston, TX 77002 (713) 659-5152 JACKSONVILLE 5100 Belfort Rd., Jacksonville, FL 32256 (904) 281-2622 JOLIET 10 East Clinton St., Joliet, IL 60432 (815) 723-8002 and the SIU since 2003. I like the money for sure, the adventure, the travel. I’ve had a lot of fun and it’s been a challenge. It’s just a good job. It’s paid the bills and made everyone in my family happy. Pic-From-The-Past MOBILE 1640 Dauphin Island Pkwy, Mobile, AL 36605 (251) 478-0916 NEW ORLEANS 3911 Lapalco Blvd., Harvey, LA 70058 (504) 328-7545 NEW YORK 635 Fourth Ave., Brooklyn, NY 11232 (718) 499-6600 Government Services Division: (718) 499-6600 NORFOLK 115 Third St., Norfolk, VA 23510 (757) 622-1892 OAKLAND 1121 7th St., Oakland, CA 94607 (510) 444-2360 PHILADELPHIA 2604 S. 4 St., Philadelphia, PA 19148 (215) 336-3818 PINEY POINT P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674 (301) 994-0010 PORT EVERGLADES 1221 S. Andrews Ave., Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33316 (954) 522-7984 SANTURCE 1057 Fernandez Juncos Ave., Stop 16 Santurce, PR 00907 (787) 721-4033 ST. LOUIS/ALTON 4581 Gravois Ave., St. Louis, MO 63116 (314) 752-6500 TACOMA 3411 South Union Ave., Tacoma, WA 98409 (253) 272-7774 WILMINGTON 510 N. Broad Ave., Wilmington, CA 90744 (310) 549-4000 Deckhand John Monaco tightens the bearing cap of the main drive gear on a Great Lakes Dredge and Dock dredge during Great Leaks fit out in early 1979. If anyone has a vintage union-related photograph he or she would like to share with other Seafarers LOG readers, please send it to the Seafarers LOG, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. Photographs will be returned, if so requested. High-resolution digital images may be sent to webmaster@seafarers.org 16 Seafarers LOG December 2012 �Welcome Ashore Each month, the Seafarers LOG pays tribute to the SIU members who have devoted their working lives to sailing aboard U.S.-flag vessels on the deep seas, inland waterways or Great Lakes. Listed below are brief biographical sketches of those members who recently retired from the union. The brothers and sisters of the SIU thank those members for a job well done and wish them happiness and good health in the days ahead. DEEP SEA WILLIE CARTER Brother Willie Carter, 66, was born in Alabama. He joined the NMU in 1991. Brother Carter’s most recent vessel was the USNS Watson. He sailed in the deck department and resides in Philadelphia. PAULO CASTILLO Brother Paulo Castillo, 66, signed on with the Seafarers in 1988. As a member of both the steward and deck departments, Brother Castillo upgraded on two occasions at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. He was born in Honduras. Brother Castillo initially worked on the Nuevo San Juan. His most recent trip was aboard the Maersk Missouri. Brother Castillo calls Brooklyn, N.Y., home. DAVID DINNES Brother David Dinnes, 55, joined the SIU ranks in 1977. His earliest trip was on the Banner. Brother Dinnes was born in San Bernardino, Calif., and worked in the deck department. He enhanced his skills often at the Piney Point school. Brother Dinnes most recently sailed aboard the Ascension. He settled in Navarre, Fla. LAWRENCE DUDEK Brother Lawrence Dudek, 61, became a union member in 1976. He first worked on the Paul Thayer as a deck department member. Brother Dudek was born in Detroit. He took advantage of educational opportunities at the Piney Point school. Brother Dudek’s final vessel was the Presque Isle. Brother Dudek makes his home in Orange Park, Fla. ALI ELMADARI Brother Ali Elmadari, 66, donned the SIU colors in 1977. His first voyage was aboard the Over Anchor; his last was on the H. Lee White. Brother Elmadari attended classes in 2008 at the maritime training center in Piney Point, Md. The engine department member makes his home in Cloquet, Minn. December 2012 WILBUR ENSMINGER Brother Wilbur Ensminger, 65, began sailing with the union in 1990 while in the port of Jacksonville, Fla. He first worked aboard the Lawrence Gianella. Brother Ensminger sailed in the engine department, most recently on the USNS Bruce Heezen. On numerous occasions, he trained at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Ensminger is a resident of Saint Mary’s, Ga. CHARLES FINCHER Brother Charles Fincher, 64, signed on with the SIU in 1990. He originally sailed aboard the USNS Chauvenet. Brother Fincher enhanced his skills on three occasions at the Piney Point school. The Georgia native sailed as a member of the steward department. Brother Fincher last shipped on the Westward Venture. He lives in Belle Chasse, La. JOHN FOREST Brother John Forest, 64, joined the union NMU in 1990. He was born in Pennsylvania. Brother Forest upgraded in 2001 at the Piney Point school. He last worked aboard the Green Bay as a member of the deck department. Brother Forest lives in Shelter Cove, Calif. ROBERT FOWLER Brother Robert Fowler, 70, became an SIU member in 1965 while in the port of Houston. He initially sailed with Hudson Waterways. The North Carolina native worked in the engine department. Brother Fowler attended classes at the Paul Hall Center on two occasions. His most recent trip was on a Michigan Tankers vessel. Brother Fowler calls Norfolk, Va., home. MAHDY GABER Brother Mahdy Gaber, 60, joined the SIU in 2001 as the NMU merged in the Seafarers International Union. The deck department member’s most recent trip was aboard the Washington Express. Brother Gaber attended classes in 2001 at the union-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. He was born in Yemen but now resides in Detroit. classes at the Piney Point school. He makes his home in Honolulu. FREDERICK GILBERT VIRGILIO HOFFMANN Brother Frederick Gilbert, 65, was born in Meadville, Pa. He became a union member in 2000 in the port of New York. Brother Gilbert’s earliest trip was aboard the Patriot. He enhanced his skills often at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Gilbert last worked on the USNS John McDonnell. He sailed in the steward department and calls Boynton Beach, Fla., home. Brother Virgilio Hoffman, 70, started shipping with the union in 1972 from the port of Honolulu. He originally sailed aboard the Santa Mercedes as a member of the steward department. Brother Hoffmann, a Chile native, last sailed on the Lightning. He resides in Seattle. FEDERICO GIRAY Brother Federico Giray, 65, donned the SIU colors in 1989. His first voyage was aboard the Independence; his most recent was on the Horizon Enterprise. Brother Giray was a member of the engine department. In 2000, he attended SALIM IBRAHIM Brother Salim Ibrahim, 64, joined the SIU ranks in 1976. His earliest trip was aboard the Overseas Joyce. Brother Ibrahim was born in Singapore and worked in the deck department. He was a frequent upgrader at the Piney Point school. Brother Ibrahim was last employed with Maersk Line, Limited. He settled in Kissimmee, Fla. GEORGE LOCKETT Brother George Lockett, 68, began his SIU career in 1990. He initially shipped with Vulcan Carriers Inc. Brother Lockett was born in Texas and worked in the engine department. In 1998 and 2001, he attended classes at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Lockett most recently sailed on the Cape Hudson. He calls Vallejo, Calif., home. DAVID MCGREW Brother David McGrew, 65, signed on with the union in 1989. He originally sailed on Continued on next page This Month In SIU History Editor’s note: The following items are reprinted from previous editions of the Seafarers LOG. 1950 SIU seamen sailing the five designated areas off the China coast will be covered by the present war risk bonuses and insurance until March 31, 1951, it was announced by headquarters. Originally scheduled to expire on December 31 of this year, the supplementary agreement was extended by SIU-contracted operators on December 21. In addition to the wages and allowances covered by the general agreements, crew members in these covered areas will receive 100 percent of their basic wages for each day spent in these waters, a $100 attack bonus and be covered by a $10,000 insurance policy. 1953 Seafarer-fathers who have received maternity benefits passed the 1,000 mark last week when Seafarer Dominick Chirichella became eligible for the $200 maternity benefit plus a $25 bond from the union. Chirichella became the 1,000th man on the list since benefits were first issued as of April 1, 1952. That means that in 21 months since the benefits began an average of approximately 48 Seafarers per month have received the record-breaking $200 maternity benefit. Chirichella, who was at his East New York home when the benefit was delivered, was pleased to learn that his first son, Joseph, had the distinction of being the 1,000th SIU maternity baby. “It was quite a pleasant surprise,” he said. “We haven’t figured out exactly what we will do with the money, but we intend to use it for expenses around the house, for baby clothes and other things that we need.” 1975 The chairwoman of the House Merchant Ma- rine and Fisheries Committee, Rep. Leonor K. Sullivan (D-Mo.), has written a letter to President Gerald Ford urging him to reconsider his opposition to cargo preference laws for U.S.-flag tankers because without the assurance of cargoes, she warned, “we will be defaulting on a trust and ignoring a situation with grave implications for our national security and commerce.” Sullivan initiated an oil cargo preferences bill last year which was passed by both the House and Senate but was eventually vetoed by Ford because he felt the measure was “inflationary.” It was through SIU support and through voluntary contributions to SPAD that the legislation passed in both Houses of Congress. In her letter, Sullivan pointed to the changes in the U.S. employment situation and international attitudes toward cargo preferences since Ford’s veto of the measure as reason for drafting the new legislation. 1984 The Soviet Union has purchased more than 14 million tons of grain from the United States in the past two years. None of that grain was shipped to the U.S.S.R. on an American vessel. If a previous U.S./U.S.S.R. maritime agreement was still in effect, almost 5 million tons of that grain would have traveled on U.S.-flag ships. SIU President Frank Drozak, in an attempt to secure part of that lucrative grain market and up the number of American seamen and ships working, has asked Secretary of State George Schultz, Secretary of Transportation Elizabeth Dole, U.S. Trade Representative William Brock and MarAd chief Adm. Harold Shear to begin negotiations with the Soviets for a new maritime deal. A 10year agreement, which expired in 1981, reserved one-third of the trade for U.S.-flag ships. Negotiations for a new maritime agreement were suspended in 1981 when Poland imposed martial law in an attempt to crush that country’s solidarity movement. Seafarers LOG 17 �Welcome Ashore Each month, the Seafarers LOG pays tribute to the SIU members who have devoted their working lives to sailing aboard U.S.-flag vessels on the deep seas, inland waterways or Great Lakes. Listed below are brief biographical sketches of those members who recently retired from the union. The brothers and sisters of the SIU thank those members for a job well done and wish them happiness and good health in the days ahead. Continued from Page 17 the USNS Regulus. Brother McGrew upgraded often at the Seafarers-affiliated school. The deck department member most recently worked aboard the Horizon Navigator. Brother McGrew is a resident of Vancleave, Miss. PATRICK MCNAMARA Brother Patrick McNamara, 65, became a union member in 1968 while in New York. He first worked aboard the Kyska as an engine department member. Brother McNamara was born in Philadelphia. His most recent vessel was the Shughart. Brother McNamara makes his home in Mechanicsburg, Pa. CHALLIS MITCHELL Brother Challis Mitchell, 69, began shipping with the SIU in 1964. His earliest trip was with Windward Steamship Corporation. Brother Mitchell was born in Mississippi and sailed as an engine department member. In 1978, he attended the Piney Point school. Brother Mitchell’s most recent ship was the Robert E. Lee. He makes his home in Prentiss, Miss. FERNANDO ONATIVIA Brother Fernando Onativia, 66, started sailing with the SIU in 1980 while in Wilmington, Calif. He was born in Puerto Rico. Brother Onativia’s first voyage was aboard the Santa Magdelena. The steward department member last shipped on the Intrepid. Brother Onativia lives in Carson, Calif. DAVID PARK joined the SIU in 2001 as the NMU merged into the Seafarers International Union. The deck department member’s most recent trip was aboard the Green Cove. Brother Rizk attended classes in 2000 at the union-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. He was born in Yemen and now lives in Milwaukee, Wisc. SAMUEL SOLOMON Brother Samuel Solomon, 65, started sailing with the union in 1965. His earliest trip was with Hudson Waterways. Brother Solomon worked in the deck department. He last sailed aboard the Golden Monarch. Brother Solomon calls Pensacola, Fla., home. MELVIN TEBBETS Brother Melvin Tebbets, 66, became a union member in 1967. A native of New Hampshire, Brother Tebbets enhanced his seafaring abilities at the maritime training center in Piney Point. The engine department member first sailed on Moore McCormack’s Rob Good. Brother Tebbets last shipped with Michigan Tankers Inc. He makes his home in Philadelphia. RONALD WHITFIELD Brother Ronald Whitefield, 66, began sailing with the union in 1993. He first sailed on the Independence. Brother Whitefield worked in the steward department and upgraded often. He was born in Berkeley, Calif., and most recently sailed aboard the USNS Charlton. Brother Whitefield is a resident of Oakland, Calif. INLAND ALEJANDRO BERRIOS Brother David Park, 64, donned the SIU colors in 1987 while in Norfolk, Va. He first sailed on USNS Bartlett. Brother Park was born in West Virginia and sailed in the deck department. His final trip was aboard the Ltc. John Page. He resides in Norfolk. Brother Alejandro Berrios, 62, joined the SIU in 1984. He sailed mostly with Crowley Puerto Rico Services. Brother Berrios worked in both the engine and deck departments. He resides in Manati, P.R. MOHAMED RIZK Brother Kevin Brady, 62, started sailing with union in 1973. The German-born mariner Brother Mohamed Rizk, 69, 18 Seafarers LOG KEVIN BRADY upgraded often at the Paul Hall Center. A member of the deck department, Brother Brady last shipped aboard a Penn Maritime Inc. vessel. He makes his home in Suffolk, Va. of vessels operated by Crescent Towing & Salvage of New Orleans. Brother Looney resides in Star Lake, N.Y. RUPERT CARTER Brother Sidney Poirrier, 55, was born in Louisiana. He began sailing with the union in 1976. Brother Poirrier mainly sailed with Crescent Towing & Salvage of New Orleans. He worked in the deck department. Brother Poirrier lives in Covington, La. Brother Rupert Carter, 62, donned the SIU colors in 1969. He worked with the Association of Maryland Pilots for the duration of his career. Brother Carter was a deck department member. He lives in Parkton, N.C. ROBERT ELLINGSON Brother Robert Ellingson, 55, started sailing with the SIU in 1983 while in Seattle. His first ship was the Manhattan Island; his most recent, the Terrapin Island. Brother Ellingson, a member of the deck department, lives in Renton, Wash. JOHN HALLER Brother John Haller, 56, was born in Camden, N.J. He became a Seafarer in 1972, originally shipping in the deep sea division aboard the Allegiance. Brother Haller took advantage of educational opportunities at the Piney Point school. He sailed as a member of the engine department. Brother Haller most recently worked with Crowley Liner Services. He settled in Franklinville, N.J. MICHAEL HORN Brother Michael Horn, 58, started shipping with the union in 1980 while in Jacksonville, Fla. His first vessel was the Sugar Island; his most recent, the Dodge Island. Brother Horn worked in the deck department. He calls Rogers City, Mich., home. DANIEL LOONEY Brother Daniel Looney, 62, signed on with the SIU in 1976. The Louisiana native primarily sailed in the deck department SIDNEY POIRRIER JAMES RUTTER Brother James Rutter, 50, joined the union in 1996 while in the port of Philadelphia. He sailed with Crowley Liner Services for the duration of his career. Brother Rutter was a deck department member. He continues to reside in his native state of New Jersey. CARL SANDERSON Brother Carl Sanderson, 61, donned the SIU colors in 1980. He initially sailed aboard the Achilles. Brother Sanderson was a member of the deck department. In 2001, he attended classes at the Piney Point school. Brother Sanderson was born in Merced, Calif. He was last employed with Great Lakes Dredge & Dock. Brother Sanderson is a resident of Wilmer, Ala. DONALD VANCE Brother Donald Vance, 63, signed on with the Seafarers in 1966 while in Norfolk, Va. Brother Vance initially worked on the Northern Lights. He was born in North Carolina. Brother Vance’s most recent trip was with Allied Transportation Company. He makes his home in Poplar Branch, N.C. DONNIS WARS Brother Donnis Wars, 67, became a union member in 1997 while in Houston. The engine department member and Michigan native originally worked aboard the Performance. Brother Wars’ most recent vessel was operated by G&H Towing. He was born in Groveton, Texas, and lives in Trinity, Texas. GREAT LAKES ALIE MUTAHR Brother Alie Mutahr, 65, began sailing with the SIU in 1968. He initially sailed on the Bob-Lo Island. Brother Mutahr was born in Arabia and worked in the steward department. He was last employed on the Alpena. Brother Mutahr is a resident of Dearborn, Mich. WILLIAM PADGETT Brother William Padgett, 66, joined the union in 1976. His earliest trip to sea was on the Merle McCurdy. Brother Padgett was a deck department member. He upgraded frequently at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Padgett’s most recent vessel was the Indiana Harbor. He was born in Michigan and now calls Superior, Wisc., home. NATIONAL MARITIME UNION STEPHEN GALLANT Brother Stephen Gallant, 56, started his NMU career in 1982. He was born in Boston. Brother Gallant most recently sailed with Boston Towing & Transportation Company. He is a resident of Knox, Maine. RONALD NEILL Brother Ronald Neill, 55, was born in Michigan. He signed on with the NMU in 1977. Brother Neill was a member of the deck department. Prior to his retirement, he sailed on the Chemical Pioneer. Brother Neill makes his home in Plainfield, Ill. December 2012 �Final Departures JOHN BERTOLINO Pensioner John Bertolino, 74, passed away June 10. He signed on with the union in 1962 while in New York. Brother Bertolino’s earliest trip to sea was on a MooreMcCormack Lines vessel. His final ship was the Atlantic. Brother Bertolino, a member of the deck department, retired in 1999. He was born in Pennsylvania but called Las Vegas home. LUIS DEJESUS Brother Luis Dejesus, 64, died May 30. He began sailing with the SIU in 2005 while in the port of Philadelphia. Brother Dejesus’ first ship was the Sea Venture; his last was the Energy Enterprise. He was a member of the engine department. Brother Dejesus lived in Vineland, N.J. GEORGE EVANS Pensioner George Evans, 74, passed away May 9. Brother Evans was born in New Jersey. The engine department member joined the Seafarers in 1961 while in the port of New York. Brother Evans first sailed with Trans Western Association. His final voyage was on the Elizabeth. Brother Evens went on pension in 1996 and settled in Keyport, N.J. JOHN FANOLI Pensioner John Fanoli, 87, died May 10. Brother Fanoli became an SIU member in 1952. He was born in Brooklyn, N.Y., and sailed in the steward department. Brother Fanoli initially worked on a Pacific Coast Transportation Company vessel. His last ship was the Elizabeth. Brother Fanoli made his home in East North Port, N.Y. WALTER FLEISHMAN Pensioner Walter Fleishman, 89, passed away May 11. Brother Fleishman first donned the SIU colors in 1944 while in New York. The deck department member was born in California. Brother Fleishman’s final trip was aboard the Leader. He started collecting his retirement compensation in 1994. Brother Fleishman was a resident of New Orleans. ALBERTO GARCIA Pensioner Alberto Garcia, 76, died May 4. Brother Garcia started shipping with the union in 1976. He originally sailed with Crowley Puerto Rico as an engine department December 2012 member. Brother Garcia was born in Puerto Rico. He last worked on the San Juan. Brother Garcia became a pensioner in 2002 and resided in Carolina, P.R. THOMAS GUTHRIE Brother Thomas Guthrie, 32, passed away May 29. He signed on with the SIU in 2005. Brother Guthrie’s earliest trip was aboard the Benavidez. He was born in Ketchikan, Alaska. Brother Guthrie was a member of the deck department. He most recently shipped on the Seabulk Pride. Brother Guthrie called Seattle home. Trenton, Mich., home. PAUL MATSOS Pensioner Paul Matsos, 73, passed away May 31. Brother Matsos was born in Greece. He joined the SIU in 1956. Brother Matsos was initially employed with Ore Navigation Corporation. He worked in the deck department. Brother Matsos’s last voyage was aboard the Enterprise. He began collecting his retirement compensation in 2004. Brother Matsos settled in Baltimore. ROY McCAULEY Pensioner John Hartman, 89, died June 15. Brother Hartman became a Seafarer in 1953 in New York. His first vessel was the Steel Chemist; his last, the Steel Flyer. Brother Hartman went on pension in 1979. The Pennsylvania native made his home in Mountain Home, Ark. Pensioner Roy McCauley, 86, died May 1. Brother McCauley became an SIU member in 1970. His first voyage was with Waterman Steamship Corporation. Brother McCauley was born in Alabama and sailed in the engine department. Prior to his retirement in 1991, he sailed on a vessel operated by Pronav Ship Management. Brother McCauley lived in Baltimore. WILLIE HOWARD JOHN McLAUGHLIN Pensioner Willie Howard, 78, passed away June 18. Brother Howard joined the union in 1981. He initially shipped aboard the President Taft. Brother Howard worked in both the engine and steward departments. His final ship was the Reliance. Brother Howard retired in the 1998. He resided in Pomona, Calif. Pensioner John McLaughlin, 93, passed away May 30. Brother McLaughlin signed on with the union in 1943 while in the port of New York. His first ship was the Yarmouth; his last, the American Heritage. Brother McLaughlin was a Boston native and sailed in the engine department. He went on pension in 1985 and made his home in Baltimore. JOHN HARTMAN ALFRED LANG Pensioner Alfred Lang, 65, passed away April 29. Brother Lang began sailing with the Seafarers in 1965. He was originally employed with CSX Lines as a member of the engine department. Brother Lang was born in Alabama. His final voyage was on the Overseas Boston. Brother Lang retired in 2002 and was a resident of Mobile. RUSSELL LUTHER Pensioner Russell Luther, 81, died June 6. Brother Luther was a native of Pennsylvania. He started sailing with the union in 1988. Brother Luther’s first trip to sea was on the Liberty Sea. He shipped in the deck and engine departments. Brother Luther last worked aboard the Mercury. He became a pensioner in 2002 and called CHING ONG Pensioner Ching Ong, 95, died May 18. Brother Ong began sailing with the Seafarers in 1952. He originally worked with AH Bull Steamship Company. Brother Ong was a member of the engine department. Before retiring in 1985, he sailed on the Oakland. Brother Ong was a resident of San Francisco. VICTOR RODRIGUEZ Pensioner Victor Rodriguez, 81, passed away June 18. Brother Rodriguez was born in Honduras. He joined the union in 1966, initially shipping aboard the Bangor. Brother Rodriguez worked in the engine department. His final trip was on the Stonewall Jackson. Brother Rodriguez became a pensioner in 1996 and resided in New Orleans. JOHN ROE Brother John Roe, 60, died June 27. He signed on with the SIU in 1971 in the port of New York. Brother Roe’s earliest trip was aboard the Houston. The deck department member was born in Portland, Ore. Brother Roe most recently worked on the Midnight Sun. He lived in Beaverton, Ore. JAMES SAUNDERS Brother James Saunders, 62, passed away May 18. He became a Seafarer in 1989. Brother Saunders’ first ship was the American Eagle; his last, the Alliance St. Louis. He was born in Derry, N.H., and sailed in the deck department. Brother Saunders called St. Augustine, Fla., home. THOMAS SCHROEDER Pensioner Thomas Schroeder, 79, died May 4. Brother Schroeder first donned the SIU colors in 1982. His first voyage was aboard the Independence. Brother Schroeder, a Honolulu native, was a member of the deck department. His final trip was on the Horizon Kodiak. Brother Schroeder retired in 2004 and made his home in Tacoma, Wash. RICHARD WILSON Brother Richard Wilson, 55, passed away May 1. He joined the Seafarers in 1977 while in Piney Point, Md. Brother Wilson originally shipped aboard the Houston. He worked in the engine department. Brother Wilson’s last ship was the Gemini. He lived in Boynton Beach, Fla. INLAND CLIFTON BRYANT 17. He joined the SIU in 1993, initially sailing aboard a Penn Maritime vessel. Brother Powell’s final trip was with Allied Towing. He was a resident of Newport News, Va. JOSEPH RAPPOLD Pensioner Joseph Rappold, 74, passed away June 22. Brother Rappold was born in Portsmouth, Va. The deck department member joined the SIU in 1962 and sailed with McAllister Towing of Virginia. He was last employed aboard a Northeast Towing vessel. Brother Rappold became a pensioner in 2005. He settled in Norfolk, Va. JAMES ROLIN Brother James Rolin, 57, died April 24. He became an SIU member in 1977. Brother Rolin first sailed with Dixie Carriers as a member of the deck department. His most recent trip was on a Crowley Towing & Transportation of Wilmington vessel. Brother Rolin made his home in Harrison, Mich. Editor’s note: The following brothers and sister, all former members of the National Maritime Union (NMU), have passed away. ASHTON CHANTILATE Brother Ashton Chantilate, 84, passed away May 30. He was born in Cuba. He became a pensioner in 1993 and called North Miami, Fla., home. ELDER CHURCH Brother Clifton Bryant, 73, died May 19. He signed on with the SIU in 1976. Brother Bryant was employed with the National Marine Service for the duration of his career. He was born in Mississippi but called Kenner, La., home. Brother Elder Church, 86, died July 9. The Florida-born mariner went on pension in 1968. He made his home in Andalusia, Fla. OTTIS FOSTER Pensioner Ottis Foster, 72, passed away May 30. Brother Foster started shipping with the union in 1992. He primarily sailed in the steward department on Express Marine vessels. Brother Foster went on pension in 2006 and resided in Belhaven, N.C. DONALD GRINNELL Brother Donald Grinnell, 67, died May 28. He first donned the SIU colors in 1968. Brother Grinnell mainly worked with Allied Transportation Company. He continued to reside in his native state of Virginia. RONNIE POWELL Brother Ronnie Powell, 61, died May Name Age DOD Belsky, Robert 78 April 23 Bridges, Julius 89 June 26 Clemente, Juan 90 May 14 Del lantis, Dorothy 81 May 8 Ebanks, Carley 93 April 26 Fairman, Carsie 73 June 3 Guillote, Etienne 88 April 27 Lawrence, William 91 May 2 Murdock, Daniel 85 May 13 Oberg, Lars 93 April 6 Ortiz, Alejandro 76 March 31 Ortiz, Louis 89 April 9 Pimentel, David 82 April 3 Sebastian, Abraham 82 May 15 Waddy, Gastonia 68 May 2 Seafarers LOG 19 �Digest of Shipboard Union Meetings ALLIANCE BEAUMONT (Maersk Line, Limited), September 16 – Chairman Roan Lightfoot, Secretary Lauren Oram, Educational Director Paul Pagano, Deck Delegate Mark Butler, Engine Delegate Charles Walker, Steward Delegate Larry Griffin. Chairman thanked crew for helping keep ship clean. He announced upcoming payoff in Beaumont, Texas. He mentioned new contract in effect. Secretary said to see her for fresh linens for crew change and please clean rooms for next crew. She thanked all for helping keep house clean. Educational director said make sure to check documents, allow plenty of time for renewals, and upgraded at Piney Point. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew discussed importance of reading Seafarers LOG and also noted that both the newspaper and other info are available at www.seafarers.org. Crew passed motions concerning dayman position and reimbursement for travel from Houston to Beaumont. Crew also asked for increased pension and health benefits. Crew thanked steward department for good meals and clean galley. AMERICAN MARINER (American Steamship Company), September 26 – Chairman Scott Krajniak, Secretary Daniel Kane, Educational Director Robert Crosby. Chairman reminded crew to use chain of command to solve union issues. He commended galley gang on outstanding job. He encouraged crew to vote in union and national elections, and noted absentee forms available in rec room. He also stressed importance of SPAD and MDL. Secretary reminded everyone to register at union hall within 72 hours of discharge. Also clean rooms and provide clean linen for your relief. Educational director advised fellow mariners to check all documents for expiration dates. He suggested Lakes-area crew members should renew BST this winter at Piney Point – and while you’re there, it’s a perfect time to upgrade. Crew discussed importance of dressing for winter weather and watching for ice. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Next port: Superior, Wis. Aboard the Endurance AMERICAN SPIRIT (American Steamship Company), September 30 – Chairman Paul Gohs, Secretary Joyce Sufak, Educational Director Michael Kruse, Deck Delegate Jeffrey Lalande, Engine Delegate Henry Willmarth. Chairman discussed pension plan and encouraged members to vote in upcoming election. Educational director said list of upcoming courses at Paul Hall Center posted on bulletin board. She encouraged everyone, including recently graduated apprentices, to upgrade as soon as they accrue the required sea time. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew requested better internet service. H LEE WHITE (American Steamship Company), September 17 – Chairman William Mulcahy, Secretary Robert Klemens, Educational Director Walid Ahmed. Chairman asked for copy of current agreement. He talked about taking all precautions now that cold weather is arriving. Secretary said everything is running smoothly. Educational director reminded fellow mariners to be aware of all document expiration dates and keep paperwork reflecting sea time needed for any and all upgrading. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Steward delegate asked everyone to keep up the good housekeeping practices. Crew said satellite boxes are aging and may need to be replaced. Internet service also can use an upgrade. HORIZON SPIRIT (Horizon Lines), September 30 – Chairman Samuel Lampshire, Secretary Adele Williams, Educational Director Dimarko Shoulders, Deck Delegate Luisito Balatbat, Steward Delegate Susano Cortez. Under old business, crew asked for improved pension benefits and also requested clarification on base wages. Chairman announced upcoming payoff at sea and also read president’s report from Seafarers Artistic Touch in Mobile The union hall in Mobile, Ala., recently gained a unique piece of art as the Rev. Bernie Maret (far left) donated a painting he’d done in celebration of the SIU’s 75th anniversary, which is next year. Also helping display the artwork for the camera are (from left) AB Derrick Lott, OMU Edward Shamburger and Lauren Liles, secretary at the hall. 20 Seafarers LOG The Seafarers LOG attempts to print as many digests of union shipboard minutes as possible. On occasion, because of space limitations, some will be omitted. Ships’ minutes first are reviewed by the union’s contract department. Those issues requiring attention or resolution are addressed by the union upon receipt of the ships’ minutes. The minutes are then forwarded to the Seafarers LOG for publication. FOWT Mark Santoli is pictured in the engine room of the car carrier Endurance earlier this year. The vessel is operated by Crowley for American Roll-On/Roll-Off Carrier. LOG. Secretary reminded crew to review the ratified contract wage increases, which are posted in the crew lounge/crew mess. Also, departing members were reminded to clean rooms and leave clean linens. Educational director recommended attending union-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md., to upgrade. Also make sure documents are up-to-date, and verify that your endorsements have been properly applied to your merchant mariner credential. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Vote of thanks given to steward department for good food and service. Next port: Long Beach, Calif. CHAMPION (Maersk Line, Limited), September 20 – Chairman Ion Irimia, Secretary Willie Massaline, Educational Director Dennis Baker, Deck Delegate Michael Ratigan, Engine Delegate Harry Kinsman, Steward Delegate Jose David. Chairman reminded members to read president’s report from LOG. He said inspection today went well, and thanked deck gang for safe voyage. Secretary reiterated importance of reading LOG, contributing to SPAD and MDL, and backing the union’s leadership. Also stressed importance of “performing our jobs in top fashion.” He thanked officials for securing new contract. Educational director advised checking schedule for Piney Point course dates, adding that upgrading is very important. Also make sure shipping documents are current. He pointed out STCW Manila Amendments fully take effect in the year 2017. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew thanked steward department for job well done and said food has been excellent. Steward then thanked chief cook and SA for support. Crew wants fewer days to be required for retirement and also asked for increase in pension amount. Crew asked LOG to publish more information pertaining to medical and pension benefits, plus the Seafarers Money Purchase Pension Plan. Next port: Elizabeth, N.J. MAERSK GEORGIA (Maersk Line, Limited), September 9 – Chairman Domingo Leon, Secretary Darryl Goggins, Educational Director Eric Bain, Deck Delegate Frank Vogler, Steward Delegate Christopher Coston. Crew received response from headquarters on earlier inquiry. Chairman thanked crew for safe voyage and added this is one of the best crews he’s sailed with in a long time of going to sea. Secretary reminded crew members who are leaving to clean rooms and leave clean linens. Educational director recommended upgrading at Piney Point. No beefs or disputed OT reported, but crew wants a wiper to be added. Votes of thanks given to deck and engine departments. Crew requested increased vacation benefit and asked for unrelated clarifications on wages. MAERSK OHIO (Maersk Line, Limited), September 11 – Chairman Jim Joyce, Secretary Fidelis Oliveira, Educational Director Joaquim Figueiredo, Engine Delegate Richard Sandiford, Steward Delegate Jerry Stuart. Chairman thanked crew for safe voyage and good seamanship. Educational director urged crew to take advantage of unionaffiliated Paul Hall Center, and pointed out lots of information about the school is available online. No beefs or disputed OT reported, but engine delegate reported that QMED requested copy of job description. Crew asked for slight adjustment in menu, and steward responded that it would be done. OCEAN ATLAS (Crowley), September 2 – Chairman David Hetrick, Secretary Connie Denoma, Deck Delegate Russell Macomber, Engine Delegate Samir Tarsha. Under old business, it was reported that a beef has been filed concerning restrictedto-ship pay in Ghana. Crew also has asked for clarifications on reliefs in foreign ports and STCW-stipulated hours of rest. Chairman reported new booklets on retirement benefits are in crew mess. Secretary said decision on Venezuela crisis should come tomorrow. Educational director advised upgrading in Piney Point: “You are in charge of your destiny.” No new beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew asked about getting satellite radio, and mentioned that internet service aboard the ship is expensive and slow. Crew reported that they are being detained in Venezuela. (Editor’s note: The October LOG contains an article about the resolution of this situation, and the story is online as well.) ST. CLAIR (American Steamship Company), September 30 – Chairman Gerald Freeman, Secretary Juan Palacios Clother, Educational Director Donald Jaegle. Chairman thanked crew for good job and always keeping safety first. Secretary reminded members to check all shipping documents for expiration dates. He reminded everyone about the new extended expiration date TWIC. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew thanked steward department for job well done. Next port: Cleveland. December 2012 �Paul Hall Center Upgrading Course Information The following is a schedule of courses at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md., for the first few months of 2013. All programs are geared toward improving the job skills of Seafarers and promoting the American maritime industry. Please note that this schedule may change to reflect the needs of the membership, the maritime industry and—in times of conflict—the national security. Students attending any of these classes should check in the Saturday before their course’s start date. The courses listed here will begin promptly on the morning of the start dates. For classes ending on a Friday, departure reservations should be made for Saturday. Seafarers who have any questions regarding the upgrading courses offered at the Paul Hall Center may call the admissions office at (301) 994-0010. Title of Course Lifeboatman/Water Survival Start Date Deck Department January 5 February 2 March 2 March 30 Title of Course Start Date Date of Completion Machinist February 9 March 1 Welding January 12 February 9 March 9 April 6 May 4 June 1 February 1 March 1 March 29 April 26 May 24 June 21 Date of Completion Advanced Firefighting January 18 February 15 March 15 April 12 Safety Upgrading Courses January 5 January 11 Basic Firefighting/STCW February 23 March 23 April 13 May 11 June 15 March 1 March 29 April 19 May 17 June 21 Medical Care Provider January 12 January 18 Government Vessels January 14 February 11 January 18 February 15 STOS January 19 April 27 February 1 May 10 Able Seaman February 2 March 16 May 11 March 1 April 12 June 7 Radar Renewal (One day) May 28 May 28 Radar Observer May 4 May 17 ARPA May 18 May 24 Bosun Recertification July 13 August 5 GMDSS January 19 February 1 Chief Cook These modules start every other week. First class of 2013 starts January 5. ECDIS February 23 March 1 Advanced Galley Operations These modules start every Monday. Engine Department Basic Auxiliary Plant Operations (BAPO) January 26 March 23 February 22 April 19 FOWT February 23 April 20 March 22 May 17 Junior Engineer January 28 March 22 Machinist January 19 February 8 UPGRADING APPLICATION Name ________________________________________________________________________ Address ______________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________ Telephone (Home)_________________________ (Cell)_________________________ Date of Birth __________________________________________________________________ Deep Sea Member o Lakes Member o Inland Waters Member o If the following information is not filled out completely, your application will not be processed. Social Security #_______________________ Book # _________________________________ Seniority_____________________________ Department_____________________________ Home Port____________________________________________________________________ E-mail_______________________________________________________________________ Endorsement(s) or License(s) now held_____________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________ Are you a graduate of the SHLSS/PHC trainee program? o Yes o No If yes, class # __________________________________________________________________ Have you attended any SHLSS/PHC upgrading courses? o Yes o No If yes, course(s) taken____________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________ With this application, COPIES of the following must be sent: One hundred and twenty-five (125) days seatime for the previous year, one day in the last six months prior to the date your class starts, USMMD (z-card) front and back or relevant pages of merchant mariner credential, front page of your union book indicating your department and seniority, qualifying seatime for the course if it is Coast Guard tested, 1995 STCW Certificate, valid SHBP Clinic Card and TWIC. December 2012 Steward Department Upgrading Courses Chief Steward January 12 April 13 July 6 February 22 May 24 August 16 Steward Recertification March 16 April 8 Serve Safe March 9 June 8 March 15 June 14 Galley Operations These modules start every Monday. NMC Website Provides Useful Mariner Resources The National Maritime Center (NMC), the licensing authority for the U.S. Coast Guard, offers a comprehensive website covering mariner credentialing, medical guidelines and much more. The site features a wide range of applications and forms, deck- and engine-department exam information, lists of Coast Guardapproved courses and more. Seafarers are COURSE encouraged to check out the site at:http:// www.uscg.mil/nmc/ Mariners may call the NMC at 1-888-IASKNMC (1-888-427-5662). Operational hours are 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. EST, Monday through Friday. (The NMC is closed for all federal holidays.) Various email forms also are available through the NMC website. ____________________________ START DATE _______________ DATE OF COMPLETION _______________________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________________ LAST VESSEL: ___________________________________ Rating: ____________________ Date On: _______________________________ Date Off:____________________________ SIGNATURE ____________________________________ DATE______________________ NOTE: Transportation will be paid in accordance with the scheduling letter only if you present original receipts and successfully complete the course. If you have any questions, contact your port agent before departing for Piney Point. Not all classes are reimbursable.Return completed application to: Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education Admissions Office, P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674-0075; or fax to (301) 994-2189. The Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education is a private, non-profit, equal opportunity institution and admits students, who are otherwise qualified, of any race, nationality or sex. The school complies with applicable laws with regard to admission, access or treatment of students in its programs or activities. 12/12 Seafarers LOG 21 �Paul Hall Center Classes Unlicensed Apprentice Water Survival Class #765 – Nineteen Phase I unlicensed apprentices completed this course Oct. 26. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Kasim Ahmed, Tinika Anderson, Kenneth Biddle Jr., Robert Bove, Anthony Cronk, Anthony Ellison, Kyle Fitzgerald, John Greggs, Karleen Grenier, Cody Kingsford, Jon Mahannah, LeDaron McIntosh, Nicholas Panagakos, Joshua Rawls, James Rodweller, Pharon Simmons, Chase Smith, Nicole Stephenson and Brandon Thornton. BAPO – The following individuals, (above, in alphabetical order) graduated from this course Oct. 12: Tenereo Cacpal, Oscar Cordero, Jeremy Jendrusiak, Todd Lander, Joshua Moton, Steven Patton, Raymond Roldan, Santiago Ruiz, Frank Sambula, Corey Sanders, Matthew Thomas and Jose Vega Caraballo. Tim Achorn, their instructor, is at the far right. ECDIS - The following individuals (above, in alphabetical order) graduated from this course Oct. 5: Robert Bakerman, John Daunoras, Basil D’Souza, Michael Moore, Ellic Mottram and Christopher Pinkerton. Their instructor, Brad Wheeler, is at the far right. Welding – Six upgraders completed their requirements in this course Oct. 5. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Majed Alsharif, Antoine Best, Rodney Davis, Eric Martin, William Mercer and Kareem Walters. Class Instructor Buzzy Andrews is at the left. Government Vessels – Nineteen upgraders completed their requirements in this course Oct. 5. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Maximo Aguiran, Mian Ahmad, Alex Amarra, Franklin Beck, Reuben Brown, John Bukowsky, Dominador Diaz, Alonzo Griswell, McKinley Jones, Florante Labtingao, Mustafa Malik, Michael Murner, John Penrose, Frank Pivik, Arturo Reyes, Leanne Smith, McKinley Thorne, Jamaal Waring and Furman Watson. Class Instructor Tom Truitt is a the far right in the back row. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Radar Observer – Seven individuals completed this course Oct. 26. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Michael Andrew, Richard Crutchfield, Xerxes Cunanan, Jason Davis, Michael Harris Jr., Frank Pivik and Felix Somorostro. Junior Engineer – The following upgraders (photo at right, in alphabetical order) finished this course Oct. 19: Ja’Quaral, Derrick Clark, Jacob Diefenbach, Egar Dionio, Demetrius Esclovon, Kabir Garcia-Santiago, Darrell Goggins, William Harrison, Herbert Hyde, David Kabasinskas, Andre MacCray, Michael Maldonado, Ann Mensch, Kwame Owusu, Anton Popescu, Mark Santoli, Edwin Simene, Ticer Sutthipong, Anthony Thomas, Brett VanPelt, Aleksey Vigovskiy, Charles Wescott, Enoch Winrod and Randy Wurr. Class Instructor Jay Henderson is standing at the far left. (Note: Not all are pictured.) 22 Seafarers LOG December 2012 �Paul Hall Center Classes Tankship Familiarization DL- Two classes of Phase III unlicensed apprentices graduated from this course Nov. 2. Completing their requirements (photo at left, in alphabetical order) were: Pedro Abuda, Jose Alicea-Sanchez, Juan Cardona, Carson Crowder, Elliot Duncan, Dominique Greer, Olympia Harley, Randolph Harrell, Rene Hernandez Ramos, Tristan Jones, Andrew Kritz, Bonnie KropolinskyHinkle, Prasert Mastrototaro, Mason Melland, Kyle Nielsen, James O’Hara, Robert Resurreccion, Dennis Saggese, Marc Silvester, Grant Simonson, Joseph Spencer, Jessie Ticer, Jayson Velez-Cruz and Danylo Zayats. Important Notice Students who have registered for classes at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, but later discover - for whatever reason that they can’t attend, should inform the admissions department immediately so arrangements can be made to have other students take their places. Medical Care Provider – Nine upgraders graduated from this course Oct. 5. Completing their requirements (above, in alphabetical order) were: Joseph Benaventre Jr., Jason Davis, Archie Eldridge Jr., Braden Horne, Kevin Lewis, Keith Marion, Rodney Payne, Robert Puckett and Reylan Tendido. Class Instructor Wayne Johnson Jr., is at the far left. Basic and Advanced Firefighting – The following individuals (above, in alphabetical order) graduated from this course Oct. 19: Nathaniel Balos, Rob Ballia, John Browning, John Garrett and Alvin Hansley. Wayne Johnson, their instructor, is at the far right. BST (Hawaii) - The following individuals (above, in no particular order) graduated from this course Sept. 29 at the Seafarers Training facility in Barbers Point, Hawaii: Tamala Baldwin, David Henry, Tekka Kelly, Lucille Racine, Amber Kasak, Brandon Nobles, Ariel Prochilo, Victoria Inboden, Richard Taylor, Erika Peckhardt, Kylin Brady, Adam Winfield, Angela Siler, Kenneth Francoeur, Christopher Chianesi, Katharine Edwards, Jordyn Linkous and Carlos Gonzalez. BST (Hawaii) - The following individuals (above, in no particular order) finished this course Oct. 13 in Hawaii: Donald Spafford, Joseph Getlein, Roberto Serna, Jerica Snyder, John Otten, Joseph Cavallaro, Asly Agbuggo, Anthony Weingartz, Marianna LaFave, Erika Boreta, Deon Mister, Jordan Espena, Yuliam Rosado, Leonel Moncada, James Doutherd, Tony Tuyen, Isaiah Eatman and Cameron Valdez. December 2012 Basic and Advanced Firefighting – Three upgraders completed their requirements in this course Oct. 26. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Antoine Best, Do Luong and David Quade. BST (Hawaii) - Eighteen individuals completed their requirements in this course Oct. 6 at the Seafarers Barbers Point, Hawaii-based training facility. Graduating (above, in no particular order): were David Toma, William Disch, Erin Laffey, Carter Scott, Ashley Lamanna, Jamie Motheral, Corleone McNaughton, Dexter Jack, Carolyn Henderson, Michael Fahl, Donniqua Campbell, Stephen Poulakos, Marc Levesque, Gladys Torio, John San Nicolas, Mindy Bustamante, Lauren Burrows and Carlos Gonzalez Jr. BST (Hawaii) – Sixteen individuals graduated from this course Oct. 27 at the Seafarers Training facility in Hawaii. Completing their requirements (above, in no particular order) were: Kevin Bell, Brian Benitez, Siobhan Carr, Derrick Clayton, Anthony Fisher, Greg Isidore, Michael Masci, Alexa Murray, Nicholas Ortziblass, Meghan Osullivan, Rod Ramos, Gerard Russo, Phillip Schoeb, Diana Vasquez, Joseph Wilczewski and Andrea Stevens. Seafarers LOG 23 �Volume 74, Number 12 December 2012 Paul Hall Center Course Dates Page 21 SEAFARERS ASSIST WITH JLOTS – Three SIU-crewed ships played key roles in this year’s Joint Logistics Over the Shore (JLOTS) exercise, which took place off the Virginia coast in July and August. The Navy describes JLOTS as “one of the U.S. military’s most unique capabilities to provide offshore operations in support of national defense and to provide humanitarian assistance/disaster relief.” The exercise offers a chance to practice transporting equipment from vessels at sea when no useable port facilities exist. The SIU-crewed USNS Obregon (shown in the photos above and at right, courtesy of the Navy) served as the primary cargo platform for this year’s exercise, while the Gopher State and Cape May also contributed to the event’s success. The Obregon is operated by Keystone, the Gopher State by Interocean American Shipping/TOTE and the Cape May by Ocean Shipholdings. At Sea and Ashore with the SIU OATH TAKEN IN TACOMA – During the October membership meeting in Tacoma, Wash., Port Agent Joe Vincenzo (right in photo above) gave the union oath to members Junior Engineer Paula Gomez (center) and AB Ian Harding as they received their respective full books. Vincenzo noted, “One of our stewards remarked that while for some, our oath may be a matter of words to honor, for others it is a matter of who we are and what we stand for: fellow unionists.” ABOARD TYCO DECISIVE – SIU Guam Port Agent John Hoskins (in both photos, wearing striped shirt) submitted these pictures from the cable ship Tyco Decisive, where he spent part of Columbus Day “with old shipmates I’d worked with aboard the Global Mariner.” He’s joined by Bosun Eric “Thor” Young in the photo above, while the other image includes Recertified Steward Shawn Fujiwara (front) and Chief Electrician Gregory Thomas. BOSUN HONORED IN HOUSTON – Fellow members and officials at the October membership meeting in Houston surprised Recertified Bosun Rafael “Monte” Pereira (center) with a certificate celebrating his 35 years of sobriety. SIU VP Gulf Coast Dean Corgey (left) and Asst. VP Jim McGee (right) helped congratulate the longtime Seafarer, who credits the late SIU Exec. VP Joey Sacco and the Seafarers Addictions Rehabilitation Center in Valley Lee, Md., as instrumental in his success. “Things change when you make an effort,” said Pereira, who happily shares his story. � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Seafarers Log Issues 2010-2019 Description An account of the resource Volumes LXXII-LXXXI of the Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Seafarers Log Digital Copies Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 2010-2019 Document A resource containing textual data. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre text. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource December 2012 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES SIU MEMBERS AID SANDY VICTIMS UNION SUPPORT DRIVES ELECTION VICTORIES SEAFARER-SUPPORTED CANDIDATES SEE SUCCESS NATIONWIDE CROWLEY CHRISTENS 2 OCEAN-CLASS TUGS NASSCO DELIVERS USNS CESAR CHAVEZ NAVY NAMES LAST T-AKE VESSEL IN HONOR OF ICONIC LABOR LEADER VOTING CONTINUES IN UNION’S ELECTION FORMER ADMINISTRATORS SPEAK OUT FOR MERCHANT MARINE DEPUTY MARITIME ADMINISTRATOR AN ‘EAGER PARTNER’ OF INDUSTRY ITF GENERAL SECRETARY ANNOUNCES MAY 2013 AS HIS RETIREMENT DATE SIU OFFICIAL, OTHER SPEAKERS POINT OUT BENEFITS OF MLC SIU CAPTAIN RECEIVES RARE HONOR UNION, SCHOOL CONTINUE PROGRESS ON NEW STCW TRAINING REQUIREMENTS SIU CAPTAIN RECEIVES RARE HONOR USNS HENSON BOOSTS INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS SIU CREW MEMBERS GREET INDONESIAN PRESIDENT, OTHER DIGNITARIES Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Seafarers Log Digital Copies Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 12/01/2012 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Newsprint Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context Vol. 74, No. 12 http://www.seafarerslog.org/archives/files/original/2a796bb529395aa86392daba16091464.pdf 0dbd868fbdf180709b2241c749a53dce PDF Text Text Volume 75, Number 1 January 2013 TOTE Orders LNG-Powered Containerships Vessels Slated for Construction at Union Yard in San Diego New SIU jobs are on the horizon following TOTE, Inc.’s recent announcement that the company has ordered construction of at least two LNG-powered containerships. The plan includes options for up to three additional ships. Construction will take place at General Dynamics NASSCO in San Diego, a yard that employs union members. An artist’s rendering of the flagship is above. Page 3. Members Ratify Contract At Petty’s Island SIU members at Crowley’s Petty’s Island, N.J., facility have unanimously ratified a three-year contract including yearly wage increases and maintaining all benefits. Many of those Seafarers are pictured in the photo below, at the nearby SIU hall in Philadelphia. Page 3. Seafarers Assist Victims Of Hurricane Sandy in NY, NJ Annual Course Guide Available This edition includes the annual Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education course guide – a listing of many of the classes available at the union-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. In addition to course listings, the guide provides details on course length, content and prerequisites required for enrollment, if any. A complete catalogue is posted in the Paul Hall Center section of the website www.seafarers.org. Upgraders in an engine department course are pictured in photo at right. Pages 9-16. SIU members were among the first people to assist with postHurricane Sandy relief efforts in the New York-New Jersey area. At press time, Seafarers aboard the vessels Empire State, Wright and Kennedy had been on the job for weeks, assisting in what promises to be a lengthy recovery. Some of those members are pictured above, on the Empire State. From left, starting in front, are SA Yazan Ahmed, SA Ali Nassir, AB Angel Carrillo, SA Abdulhakim Ahmed, GUDE John Cahill, (middle row, seated) SA Alfonso Thomas, SA Anthony Henry, GUDE Joseph Humphrey, (standing) SA Alfredo Martinez, OMU Aleksander Djatschenko, SA Mohamed Aljahmi, OMU William Harrison, SA Vernon Humbles, AB Karl Mayhew, SA Palanivel Karupiah, AB Brandon Albro, SIU New York Patrolman Mark von Siegel and GUDE Tony Bassali. Page 2. Union Gains Jobs Page 3 15041_January_LOG_X2.indd 1 Rescues at Sea Page 5 Halls Host Holiday Gatherings Pages 6, 7 12/21/2012 10:01:08 AM �President’s Report Another Year of Progress The SIU enjoyed another successful year in 2012, thanks in large part to the hard work of rank-and-file members, union officials, and the instructors and staff at our affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. We also did well – despite the economy – thanks to productive, cooperative relationships with our contracted ship operators, with military leaders and with key personnel at federal agencies that affect maritime. If I were to put it in football terms, I’d say we won big but didn’t post a shutout. Overall, though, it was a year of many gains, most importantly when it comes to new contracts and new ships. As I enter another year serving as your president, I still very much consider it an honor. It’s a challenging, exciting, rewarding job – one that constantly keeps me energized. One thing that’s Michael Sacco been the same in each of those years is that all of the efforts by the union and the school point back to the jobs and job security of Seafarers. That’s what it’s all about, and as I’ve said in slightly more colorful terms, without jobs, the rest is really meaningless. Even though we’ve bucked national trends with our contracts, we recognize that these are leaner and meaner times. We have to understand the economics of the industry in order to secure those good contracts. We must – and do – support and work with our operators through the inevitable ups and downs of the business. When you combine that kind of mutual respect with the top-notch, well-trained shipboard manpower the SIU delivers, that’s how you end up with collective bargaining agreements that I believe are the best in the industry. We’ve got a year-in-review piece in this edition of the LOG and I encourage Seafarers to check it out. It’s a good look at our accomplishments and a reminder of what we can achieve by working together. Meanwhile, I believe the best thing that’s recently happened to us outside of our industry is the re-election of President Obama and Vice President Biden. We continue to have friends on both sides of the aisle on Capitol Hill, but it’s a relief knowing we’ll move forward with a pro-worker administration that backs maritime. As we take one last look back on 2012, I again thank Seafarers for your support during all of the campaigns, including your participation in SPAD. For those members who haven’t contributed to SPAD, which is the union’s voluntary political action fund, I’d encourage you to think about it. We support pro-maritime candidates through many grassroots activities that don’t involve money, but financial contributions are an important part of today’s politics, and that won’t change anytime soon. Please contribute as much as you can. Looking ahead, I’m optimistic about our future. After Thanksgiving, in my role as a vice president of the AFL-CIO Executive Council, other labor leaders and I met with Vice President Biden at the White House. I came away from that meeting convinced that we can, and will, have true opportunities to help America’s working families and grow the labor movement. One way to help achieve those goals is to keep the federation’s political machine running, and that’s exactly what’s happening. Election Day 2012 may have passed, but the AFL-CIO and its affiliates, including us, already are looking to the congressional campaigns in 2014 along with a few governors’ and state house races slated for this year. Here’s hoping they won’t follow the Michigan right-to-work (for less) example and will see less extremism and a more civil tone when that time rolls around. For now, I continue to view the SIU as a family and team that cares about each other and works together. That has worked to our advantage since our founding, and will be our plan for growth and strength as we enter our seventy-fifth year as the Brotherhood of the Sea. Volume 75, Number 1 TOTE Orders LNG-Powered Containerships At least two new ships – and possibly as many as five – are on the horizon following last month’s announcement by SIU-contracted TOTE, Inc., that the company has ordered construction of LNG-powered containerships. Believed to be the first of their kind, the vessels reportedly will operate in TOTE’s SIU-crewed Sea Star Line service between Puerto Rico and the U.S. mainland. They’re slated for construction at General Dynamics NASSCO in San Diego (a yard that employs union members and whose president is a former union mariner). The contract calls for two vessels and includes options for three more. When completed, the 764-foot-long containerships are expected to be the largest ships of any type in the world primarily powered by liquefied natural gas (LNG). Construction of the first containership is scheduled to begin in the first quarter of 2014, with delivery by the fourth quarter of 2015; the second ship is slated for delivery in the first quarter of 2016. According to NASSCO, the ships will be designed by DSEC, a subsidiary of Daewoo Shipbuilding & Marine Engineering (DSME), located in Busan, South Korea. NASSCO has successfully partnered with DSEC previously for the design and construction of five Stateclass product tankers which currently operate in the U.S. Jones Act market with SIU crews. Anthony Chiarello, president and CEO of TOTE said, “This investment demonstrates our commitment to the people of Puerto Rico and our environment. These vessels mark a new age of shipping using the best technology in the world.” The company said each new ship will have capacity of 3,100 20-foot-equivalent units. “This project breaks new ground in green ship technology,” said Fred Harris, president of General Dynamics NASSCO. “It adds to our design and production capabilities and validates our reputation as one of the nation’s leading shipyards for commercial and government new-construction shipbuilding. Securing this contract has been a real team effort and will help sustain the jobs of the talented skilled tradesmen and women in our workforce.” The shipyard’s announcement indicated the vessels “will operate on either fuel oil or gas derived from LNG, which will significantly decrease emissions while increasing fuel efficiency as compared to conventionally powered ships. The LNG-powered containerships will also include a ballast water treatment system, making them the greenest ships of their size in the world.” Last summer, TOTE reported plans to modify two of its roll-on/roll-off ships to also run on LNG.` Seafarers Continue to Aid Sandy Recovery Mariners Determined to Stay Until the Job is Done Already on the job for more than a month, Seafarers worked well into December helping the New YorkNew Jersey area recover from the lingering effects of Hurricane Sandy. SIU members were among the first to respond when the storm hit in late October, and the Seafarers aboard three vessels docked in the region were determined to stay until the job was done. “They were all proud to be doing their part,” said SIU New York Patrolman Terence Maxwell. “Nobody’s complaining. They’re enjoying the work.” Almost immediately after the storm made landfall Oct. 28, Seafarers rushed to action. Within days, three ships – the Crowley-operated SS Wright, Massachusetts Maritime Academy training ship Kennedy and Fort Schuyler, N.Y.-based training ship Empire State – were crewed, docked in the region and ready to help. More than 60 Seafarers crewed the three ships, which served as a sort of floating hotel and base for emergency workers and FEMA personnel – each providing housing, hot food, and showers to the hundreds of emergency responders working to deal with the storm’s aftermath. Statistics from a recent day – Nov. 20 – reflect the mariners’ efforts. On that day, the Empire State housed more than 470 overnight passengers, while the steward department served 1,079 meals. Aboard the Kennedy, 461 passengers were housed and 957 meals were served. On the Wright, 185 individuals were housed overnight. The majority of the overnight guests were listed as emergency responders. In all, the three ships provided sleeping space for as many as 1,200 people per night at their peak. By Thanksgiving weekend, they had accumulated more than 17,000 overnight guests and served approximately 31,000 meals. Those numbers began to thin, however, as conditions improved. As of publication of the LOG, the three ships were scheduled to return home by late December. Tom Bushy, who serves as master for the Kennedy, said his crew has remained in good spirits, despite being docked in Staten Island’s Home Port Pier for the duration of their work. He added an example of that dedication could be seen in OS Jose David ColonMartinez aboard the Kennedy. At 3:47 a.m. Nov. 15, Colon-Martinez joined his wife, Miranda, as their son Dixon was born. Determined to return to his duties, Colon-Martinez made it to work on time a few hours later, likely without much sleep. That kind of dedication and positive attitude, Bushy added, was common among the Seafarers docked in the region. “Their demeanor has always been pleasant and upbeat,” Bushy said, adding their training at the SIUaffiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney, Point, Md., made them exceptionally well-prepared for the work. “They all possess excellent skill sets and work ethic – they are great shipmates.” Maxwell said that the crews were just happy to be of some help. “Everybody feels proud,” he said. Their service didn’t go unrecognized. Following a tour of the three ships, Kevin Tokarski, associate administrator for National Security at the Maritime Administration, raved about the work that was being done by Seafarers. He added he witnessed the “significant praise” the ships’ crews were receiving from the emergency response officials they were feeding and housing. “Most of that praise is directly attributed to the steward departments for meals, comfortable accommodations and clean spaces,” Tokarski said. “This has been a great team effort.” Praise has also come from the Maritime Administration. Prior to their return home, crews from the relief vessels received the U.S. Merchant Marine Medal for Outstanding Achievement from Maritime Administrator David Matsuda. Maxwell, meanwhile, said he’s not surprised by the recognition. He’s been impressed by the mariners’ hard work and said their determination to get the job done stemmed from their intense desire to help. “They were just doing their part to make a difference in somebody’s life,” he said. January 2013 The SIU online: www.seafarers.org The Seafarers LOG (ISSN 1086-4636) is published monthly by the Seafarers International Union; Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU, AFL-CIO; 5201 Auth Way; Camp Springs, MD 20746. Telephone (301) 899-0675. Periodicals postage paid at Southern Maryland 20790-9998. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to the Seafarers LOG, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. Communications Director, Jordan Biscardo; Managing Editor/Production, Jim Guthrie; Assistant Editor, Brian Ahern; Photographer, Harry Gieske; Administrative Support, Misty Dobry. Copyright © 2012 Seafarers International Union, AGLIWD. All Rights Reserved. The Seafarers International Union engaged an environmentally friendly printer for the production of this newspaper. Seafarers on the Empire State are among those pictured with Maritime Administrator David Matsuda (sixth from left), who visited the vessel Thanksgiving Day. 2 Seafarers LOG 15041_January_LOG_X.indd 2 January 2013 12/20/2012 4:57:35 PM �The 610-foot-long bulk carrier Mary Ann Hudson is a new addition to the SIU fleet. (Photo by John Curdy) Crew members gather for a meeting aboard the Barbara Kessel. SIU Gains Jobs Following Acquisition International Shipholding Corp’s Purchase Nets New Tonnage Steward Roxanne Fike smiles aboard the Barbara Kessel, which is one of four new ships joining the Seafarers-crewed fleet following International Shipholding Corporation’s acquisition of United Ocean Services. The new year is bringing new jobs to the SIU. Those jobs are coming thanks to the $111 million acquisition in late 2012 of United Ocean Services (UOS) by SIU-contracted International Shipholding Corporation (ISH). The acquisition resulted in four new Gulf Coast-based ships being added to the SIU’s fleet. “We’re very excited to bring new tonnage into the SIU family,” said SIU Vice President Contracts George Tricker. “Any time we can secure new jobs for the members it’s a plus.” The new, three-year contract with ISH subsidiary Waterman covering the acquired tonnage will include yearly wage increases and feature all of the SIU’s premium benefit plans. The ships will serve as Jones Act vessels making dry cargo runs throughout the Gulf Coast. SIU Ft. Lauderdale Port Agent Kris Hopkins has visited the ships and said the news of the acquisition and new jobs was widely celebrated along the Gulf Coast. “We’ve all been very excited since we’ve known about it. These are additional jobs for our members in the Gulf,” Hopkins said. “It’s something I’m glad I got to see come to pass. It’s a great addition of jobs to the membership.” The ships, which consist of two dry cargo bulk carriers (the Mary Ann Hudson and the Sheila McDevitt) and two integrated tug-barges (the Barbara Kessel and the Sharon Dehart), were part of UOS’s 131,000-dead weight tons Jones Act fleet. The ISH acquisition of UOS puts it in a prominent position when it comes to the U.S. Jones Act dry bulk market, bringing the company’s total ca- pacity to more than 197,000 dead weight tons. The UOS’s long-term contracts and customers will remain under the new agreement. Niels M. Johnsen, ISH’s chairman and chief executive officer, described the deal as a win for everybody involved. “This acquisition enables management to capitalize on a growth opportunity,” he said. “The addition of these vessels strengthens our presence and improves our operating efficiencies in the U.S.-flag Jones Act dry bulk market.” The addition of the new SIU jobs, Hopkins added, “goes to show the constant work that goes on by our contracts department. There are things they do all the time that maybe members don’t always see. But they keep us rolling.” Members at Crowley-Petty’s Island Unanimously Approve 3-Year Pact In many ways, the new contract between the SIU and Crowley covering members at Petty’s Island, N.J., may be viewed as a model of what labor and management can accomplish by working together through the industry’s inevitable ups and downs. After making sacrifices in recent years, Seafarers at the company’s Petty’s Island facility unanimously have approved a new three-year agreement featuring annual wage increases and maintaining all benefits, including topof-the-line CorePlus medical coverage through the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan. The agreement also allows members to regain some wage-related items that had been forgone earlier. Negotiating for the SIU were Vice President Atlantic Coast Joseph Soresi, Philadelphia Port Agent Joe Baselice, and members Scott Smith and Mike Fay. The contract, ratified in mid-November, covers 40 or so Seafarers. “I think it paid dividends for us to have done what we had to do during hard times these past two years,” Smith observed. “To land a great contract like this one now is definitely well-deserved. The membership on the island and the SIU pulled together to make it happen, and I can’t say enough about everything Joe Soresi and Joe Baselice did for us. January 2013 15041_January_LOG_X.indd 3 The membership appreciates everything the union has done.” Smith added that the cooperative spirit between the SIU and Crowley was evident Nov. 28 when company President and CEO Tom Crowley and other company officials visited the job site and met with members. Fay described the contract as a true win-win. “We were thanking them for it and they were thanking us,” he recalled. “It doesn’t get any better than that, when both sides see it as a victory.” He added, “We’ve worked hard and they recognized that. They gave us a nice package, but it wasn’t a gift – it was fair.” Soresi agreed that the contract is good for both sides and also noted, “We have a great working relationship with Crowley. They respect the guys and the guys respect the company.” Baselice said the negotiations went smoothly, though some of them initially were complex. “But everyone did a great job,” he stated. “It was satisfying in a lot of ways and it’s a good agreement for a great group of guys. They have an impeccable safety record and I think the company recognized what an outstanding group we have.” From left: Crowley VP Rudy Leming, Crowley President/CEO Tom Crowley, Seafarer Scott Smith, Terminal Manager Ken Orbin, Seafarer Mike Fay. Seafarer Stanley Williams, President Tom Crowley President Tom Crowley, Seafarer Rob Weinhardt Jr. Seafarers LOG 3 12/20/2012 4:57:38 PM �SIU Election Results Soon will be Announced Voting was scheduled to be completed at the end of last month (December), and results of the election of officials for the Seafarers International Union’s Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/ NMU will be announced, in accordance with the SIU Constitution, upon completion of the tallying committee’s work. Results of balloting on the two proposed constitutional amendments also will be announced. Special membership meetings were conducted last month in union halls listed in the SIU Constitution to elect delegates for a rank-and-file tallying committee. That committee, including two members from each of the union’s constitutional ports, will tabulate results of the election, which started Nov. 1 in all SIU halls and was scheduled to end Dec. 31. The February issue of the Seafarers LOG will carry the results of the election. The ballot included a list of candidates seeking the posts of president, executive vice president, secretary-treasurer, six vice presidents, six assistant vice presidents and 10 port agents (for a total of 25 positions) along with the proposed constitutional amendments. Individuals elected in this round of balloting will serve a four-year term lasting from 2013 through 2016. Seafarers who were eligible to vote in the election were full book members in good standing, according to the union’s constitution. Members had the opportunity to pick up a ballot either in person at one of the 20 union halls around the country and overseas or via mail (absentee ballot). Article XIII of the union’s constitution spells out the procedures by which an election will be conducted. The entire text of Article XIII, along with a sample ballot, a list of voting locations, the constitutional committee’s report and other related information appears on pages 6-10 of the October 2012 issue of the Seafarers LOG. Additionally, a notice of the election was mailed in October to all members at their last known addresses, with a list of all voting locations as well as a sample of the official ballot. Several Union-Contracted Companies Capture CSA Environmental Awards Seafarers-contracted companies take a back seat to no one when it comes to protecting the environment, and a number of them recently were recognized for those efforts. SIU-contracted operators and other companies were honored Nov. 13 by the Chamber of Shipping of America (CSA), which sponsored a ceremony in Washington, D.C. The CSA traditionally extends accolades to U.S.-based maritime companies twice a year – once in the summer, when awards are presented for sustained accident-free periods, and again near year’s end, when environmental recognition is given. At the November event, companies earned 2012 CSA Environmental Achievement Awards for having operated “incident-free” for at least two years. The SIU-contracted companies that were recognized included Alaska Tanker Company, Crowley Maritime and many of its subsidiaries, E.N. Bisso & Son, Farrell Lines, American Overseas Marine, Harley Marine, Horizon Lines, Keystone, Maersk Line Limited, Moran Towing, OSG Ship Management, Patriot Contract Services, Sea Star Line, Seabulk Tankers, Totem Ocean Trailer Express, U.S. Shipping Corporation, and U.S. Vessel Management. According to the CSA, the average number of years operating without inci- dent for vessels honored is 6.9 years, but roughly one-fourth of those recognized “have logged more than 10 years each of environmental excellence.” Joseph J. Cox, president of CSA said, “These awards celebrate the dedication to environmental excellence of our seafarers and the company personnel shore-side who operate our vessels to the highest standards. In today’s world, it seems our industry only gets front-page news when spills or other environmental problems occur. It is encouraging to see how many vessels go for years achieving environmental excellence. It should be clear to the American public that we in the maritime industry take our stewardship of the marine environment very seriously.” Coast Guard Rear Adm. Joseph A. Servidio, the agency’s assistant commandant for prevention policy, participated in the award ceremony and cited the great work performed by the industry. According the CSA, the awards are open to all owners and operators of vessels that operate on oceans or inland waterways. The organization represents 37 U.S.-based companies that own, operate or charter oceangoing tankers, container ships, and other merchant vessels engaged in both the domestic and international trades and other entities that maintain a commercial interest in the operation of such oceangoing vessels. Photos by Barry Champagne CSA President Joseph Cox Operations Remain ‘Business As Usual’ At SIU-Contracted OSG On Nov. 14, SIU President Michael Sacco sent a message to Seafarers employed by Overseas Shipholding Group 4 Seafarers LOG 15041_January_LOG_X.indd 4 Coast Guard Rear Adm. Joseph Servidio (OSG) reassuring them that the union’s contracts with OSG remain in place and that it’s “business as usual” despite the company’s recent filing for Chapter 11 bankruptcy reorganization. In an email to the company’s tanker and inland fleets, the union president pointed out that OSG’s strategic move “was widely expected throughout our industry, and the SIU and OSG have been Recertified Bosun Raphael James, Recertified Steward Tyler Laffitte, AB Robert Pesulima, GUDE Justin Bing, SA Taha Ismail, QMED Muniru Adam Thanksgiving on Maersk Alabama Being at sea didn’t prevent Seafarers and officers aboard the Maersk Alabama from enjoying a traditional Thanksgiving feast. Vessel master Capt. Larry Aasheim emailed these photos from the holiday meal. AB Fred Gongora, Recertified Bosun Raphael James, AB Celestino Daluz Recertified Steward Tyler Laffitte communicating throughout the process leading to the actual filing. All of our contracts with OSG remain in place, and we are very confident in the company’s viability both in the short term and the long term.” He added that members’ benefits also are safe, and no layoffs or other reductions are planned. Additionally, he wrote, “Keep in mind that Chapter 11 is Chief Cook Wardell Paze not an ending – it’s a way for companies to restructure their debts and move forward. When this process is complete, the SIU strongly believes that OSG’s American-flag operation will emerge in a much stronger position and will continue functioning as a key player in the Jones Act trades. That includes not only their tankers but all of OSG’s inland fleet as well.” January 2013 12/20/2012 4:57:41 PM �This is one of four boats repelled by the security team. Members of the crew and security team are pictured on the Ocean Atlas. Back row, from left: AB Wadeea Alnasafi, ACU Joel Ababa, GUDE Sean Branch, QMED/Electrician Chris Eason, AB Nicolas Byers, Chief Steward Connie Denoma, 3rd Mate Matthew Welsh, Captain Scott A. Lund, AB Sergio Ordonez, Recertified Bosun David Hetrick, and 3rd Engineer Analisa Stewart. The security team is in front. Not pictured: Chief Mate Daniel Vonder-Haff, 2nd Mate Michael Rawlins, Chief Engineer Jean Parenteau, and 1st Engineer Robert Daly. Ocean Atlas Repels Piracy Attacks The SIU crew and the officers of the Crowley Maritime Corp.-managed M/V Ocean Atlas are safe after recently fending off multiple attempts by pirates to board the vessel while off the coast of Lome, Togo. The crew’s anti-piracy safety training coupled with the on-board security team from Nexus Consulting ensured the safety of the cargo and all personnel on board. The Ocean Atlas anchored three miles off the port of Lome on Nov. 21 in a highly congested area to wait to receive fuel. The security team set up surveillance to ensure a safe perimeter while awaiting the arrival of the fueling vessel. Just before midnight, a skiff carrying six men used the numerous fishing and fueling vessels in the area as cover while searching for a location to board the ship. Twice, the men attempted to board the vessel along the port side using a rope-and-wooden ladder but were spotted by the surveillance team, which in coordination with the crew members prevented the pirates from boarding. When safe, the crew radioed the Togo navy to report the attack and request assistance. Following anti-piracy safety protocol, the crew members remained on the bridge while the security team guarded all entry points on the vessel. These measures prevented a second attempt to board the vessel 30 minutes later, this time by pirates in three separate skiffs. Throughout the remainder of the night, as the vessel awaited fuel, the crew members worked with the security team to keep surveillance on the pirate skiffs as they continued their attempts to board the ship. “We are grateful all of our crewmembers made it home safely after these recent events,” said Nick Orfanidis, Crowley’s director of fleet operations. “The crew’s performance in this high-stress situation showed its high level of professionalism and the value of Crowley’s anti-piracy security and safety training. The crew’s safety also would not USNS Spearhead, First JHSV, Delivered Progress continued in the Navy’s joint high-speed vessel (JHSV) program with the Dec. 5 delivery of the USNS Spearhead, the first in a planned 10-ship fleet that means new jobs for SIU members. As previously reported, the first four JHSVs will be crewed by civil service mariners (CIVMARS), while the rest will be manned by seafarers employed by operating companies under contract to the Navy’s Military Sealift Command. The Spearhead was delivered at Austal Shipyard in Mobile, Ala. It will feature a crew of 22, including members of the SIU Government Services Division. The vessel was scheduled to undergo “operational testing” before sailing to its layberth in Little Creek, Va.; the Navy expects the ship to start its missions in the first quarter of this year. Retired U.S. Army Chief Warrant Officer Four Kenneth Wahlman is the ship’s sponsor. Wahlman was inducted into the Transportation Corps Hall of Fame in July 2004 after 38 years of distinguished contributions to the Army ranging from support to the Naval Nuclear Power Unit at McMurdo Station in Antarctica, to assisting with the launch of the Army prepositioning fleet in 1987. (SIU-crewed ships for decades have delivered vital cargo to McMurdo Station, and numerous SIU-crewed vessels help form America’s prepositioning fleet.) According to an MSC news release, the Navy honored the ship’s original U.S. Army-chosen name and sponsor after the 2011 decision to transfer five JHSVs – originally slated to be owned and operated by the Army – to the Navy. Subsequent JHSVs will be named after U.S. counties, such as the USNS Choctaw County (JHSV 2). By any names, the new vessels (each 338 feet long) will be fast. They reportedly are capable of transporting approximately 600 tons of military troops, vehicles, supplies and equipment 1,200 nautical miles at an average speed of 35 knots. Additionally, each JHSV has sleeping accommodations for up to 42 crew members and 104 mission personnel, and airline-style seating for 312 people. Flexibility is another eagerly anticipated feature of the JHSVs. Each ship will have a 20,000-square-foot mission bay area that can be reconfigured to adapt to different tasks. Examples given by MSC included carrying containerized portable hospitals to support disaster relief, or transporting tanks and troops. Further, the JHSVs can operate in shallow-draft ports and waterways. Their flight decks can support operations for a wide variety of aircraft. have been possible without the expertise and skill of the Nexus Consulting security team.” Ocean Atlas Vessel Master Capt. Scott Lund also credited the crew and security team for their efforts. The Ocean Atlas is operated by Intermarine LLC through its U.S.-flag affiliate, US Ocean LLC, as part of its U.S.-flag heavy-lift service. Crowley began managing vessels for Intermarine in October 2011, including the technical management of the Ocean Atlas. This U.S.-flag, heavy-lift/ multipurpose cargo vessel operates around the world and is 393 feet long with a gross tonnage of 7,252. Union Crews Rescue Nine The officers and crews aboard a pair of SIU-contracted vessels demonstrated the finest traditions of Brotherhood of the Sea recently when they saved international fishermen from possible peril on the high seas during two rescues. Officers and CIVMARS aboard the Military Sealift Command operated USS Ponce plucked seven distressed fishermen from the frigid waters northeast of Bahrain Oct. 29 while their counterparts aboard the MV Green Cove duplicated the deed 24 days later on Nov. 22 for two fishermen near Mexico. Rescue by Ponce During the early morning hours of Oct. 29, watchstanders aboard the USS Ponce spotted seven fishermen aboard two small skiffs waving their arms in distress some 30 nautical miles from Bahrain. Weather conditions at the time were far from ideal. U.S. Navy meteorologists stationed in Bahrain reported 30-35 knot winds with hail measuring more than one-third of an inch in size. Watchstanders noticed that the fishermen showed signs of extreme cold and exhaustion. The Ponce’s captain positioned his vessel is such a fashion that allowed the fishermen to maneuver their crafts close enough to retrieve lines which had been thrown to them. They were later brought aboard the Ponce via the vessel’s accommodation ladder, given medical care, dry clothes and food. The Ponce returned to port in Bahrain early that same afternoon where the seven fishermen and their fishing boats were transferred to the Royal Bahraini Coast Guard. Green Cove Liberates Two The USNS Spearhead means new jobs for Seafarers and a stronger U.S.-flag fleet. January 2013 15041_January_LOG_X.indd 5 Crew members standing watch aboard the MV Green Cove picked up a flashing light on the horizon in rough seas off the coast of Mexico during the morning hours of Nov. 22. Upon closer investigation, they discovered that the illumination in fact was coming from a fishing boat’s freezer box that was carrying two people. With the assistance of the vessel’s officers, crew members pulled the two fisherman to safety aboard the Green Cove. Once aboard, they were given food, water and medical assistance. Crew members also helped the fishermen make contact with their families and accommodated them until the ship reached Panama. Seafarers LOG 5 12/20/2012 4:57:43 PM �Holiday Spirit Very Much Alive and Well During Annual Gathering in Jacksonville SIU Asst. VP Archie Ware More than 250 people turned out Nov. 15 for the annual winter holiday gathering at the SIU hall in Jacksonville, Fla. The event took place Nov. 15 under casual and cordial circumstances, as guests came and went from 11:30 a.m. until 2 p.m. Attendees included active and retired Seafarers and their families, union officials, representatives from SIU- Safety Director Ashley Nelson, Recertified Steward Gerald Kirtsey Chief Cook Michael Harris contracted companies including Crowley and TOTE, employees from the local medical clinic and others. Rank-and-file Seafarers enthusiastically volunteered to help stage the get-together, which featured a traditional Thanksgiving menu. All of the photos on this page were taken at the hall the day of the gathering. Chief Cook Shirley Bellamy Seafarers Larry Genetiano and Jose Alcaide SA Maude Solomon Guests from local health clinic 6 Seafarers LOG 15041_January_LOG_X.indd 6 UA David Garrett and his mother Guests from TOTE and Patrolman Brian Guiry (second from right) January 2013 12/20/2012 4:57:48 PM �SIU VP Nick Marrone, U.S. Rep. Jerry McNerney, SIU Asst. VP Nick Celona SIU VP Nick Marrone, U.S. Rep. Barbara Lee, SIU Asst. VP Nick Celona Calif. Attorney General Kamala Harris, Asst. VP Nick Celona, San Francisco Fire Chief Joanne Hayes-White Oakland’s Traditional Event: ‘Fantastic!’ Buoyed by Election Day success – and a mouthwatering menu – Seafarers and guests were especially festive for the 2012 pre-Thanksgiving gathering Nov. 20 at the SIU hall in Oakland, Calif. Roughly 250 people shared good food and fellowship for the twentysecond annual gala, which for many years has been known locally as the kickoff of the holiday season. As usual, attendees included members of Congress, state and local politicians, shipping company representatives, officials from other unions, plus SIU members, retirees and their families. SIU Assistant Vice President Nick Celona once again worked closely with the committee that organized the event. “It was fantastic!” he proclaimed. “The whole thing went very smoothly, and I think the aftermath of Election Day really helped the mood. Labor won every initiative here in California, and of course, many pro-worker candidates were elected, from the White House to Congress.” U.S. Rep. Nancy Pelosi, the Democratic Leader, has attended the Oakland feasts in years past but couldn’t make it this time. However, she sent a letter that was read aloud during the get-together. The note said in part: “My special thanks to (SIU Vice President West Coast) Nick Marrone and Nick Celona for hosting this wonderful gathering year after year. We are all grateful to the Seafarers for your steadfast efforts that are vital to our national and economic security…. Thank you for this opportunity to express my deepest appreciation to all of you for protecting, building and loving America.” Pelosi also noted, “Democrats in the 113th Congress are committed to working in a bipartisan way to create jobs and strengthen the middle class. With your leadership we will continue our fight for America’s working families – to make our country more secure, create jobs, protect Social Security and Medicare and promote innovation, technology and education to make sure America remains number one in the world. We know that when we make it, grow it and build it in America, our country grows stronger, our workers more secure and our nation leads the world economy.” U.S. Rep. Barbara Lee (D-Calif.), also a regular attendee, presented Marrone and Celona with a congressional letter of recognition for the SIU. Editor’s note: Special thanks to Charles Farrugia for providing the photos on this page. Bosun Richard Grubbs (white cap) and the San Francisco Fire Department Color Guard Sheet Metal Workers Local 104 Sec.-Treas. Joe Maraccini Cindy Shortall of Matson, Patrolman Nick Marrone II January 2013 15041_January_LOG_X.indd 7 Seafarers LOG 7 12/20/2012 4:57:52 PM �Inquiring Seafarer Seafarers International Union Directory Michael Sacco, President Augustin Tellez, Executive Vice President David Heindel, Secretary-Treasurer George Tricker, Vice President Contracts Tom Orzechowski, Vice President Lakes and Inland Waters Dean Corgey, Vice President Gulf Coast Nicholas J. Marrone, Vice President West Coast Joseph T. Soresi, Vice President Atlantic Coast Kermett Mangram, Vice President Government Services HEADQUARTERS 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746 (301) 899-0675 ALGONAC 520 St. Clair River Dr., Algonac, MI 48001 (810) 794-4988 Editor’s note: This month’s question was answered by Seafarers in Piney Point, Md. Some were enrolled in classes, while others were there just for the December membership meeting. Steve Shaffer QMED I’m looking forward to getting some more sea time in and I want to take more classes. I’ve been sailing since 2008 and I’m just trying to get good jobs and keep working. BALTIMORE 2315 Essex St., Baltimore, MD 21224 (410) 327-4900 GUAM P.O. Box 3328, Hagatna, Guam 96932 Cliffline Office Ctr. Bldg., Suite 103B 422 West O’Brien Dr., Hagatna, Guam 96910 (671) 477-1350 HOUSTON 1221 Pierce St., Houston, TX 77002 (713) 659-5152 JACKSONVILLE 5100 Belfort Rd., Jacksonville, FL 32256 (904) 281-2622 JOLIET 10 East Clinton St., Joliet, IL 60432 (815) 723-8002 MOBILE 1640 Dauphin Island Pkwy, Mobile, AL 36605 (251) 478-0916 getting some more time to spend with my family. Question: What are some of the things you’re looking forward to in the New Year? ANCHORAGE 721 Sesame St., #1C, Anchorage, AK 99503 (907) 561-4988 HONOLULU 606 Kalihi St., Honolulu, HI 96819 (808) 845-5222 is go as far with this career as I can. Stravon Jordan Electrician I’m already sitting for my [third assistant engineer] license. I’m looking forward to getting more hands-on experience and putting the theory to practice. What I’m trying to do Jesse Mixon AB My goal is to move up and advance and upgrade in the industry. I’m hoping I’ll be able to earn more money. I’m also looking forward to maybe Davon Brown QMED I’m looking to upgrade so I’ll be making some more money and then buy a new home for my family. I’m really looking forward to that raise. in the spring. Ricardo Fuentes GUDE Upgrading to get better pay. Right now I’m taking BAPO (basic auxiliary plant operations). I’m also looking forward to getting in my time (to qualify) for benefits, taking some vacation and seeing my family. Stacy Murphy AB Taking a break after I pass (the mate’s course) and then going back to Crowley. Our family also just purchased property in Texas, and I’m moving out there with my puppies. I want to be out in the middle of nowhere. Samantha Murphy AB Getting a license and working as a mate. My final goal is to be a pilot, so I’ll work towards that. But I want to find a mate’s job in the SIU – I don’t want to leave. I’m also engaged, and planning to get married sometime Pic-From-The-Past NEW ORLEANS 3911 Lapalco Blvd., Harvey, LA 70058 (504) 328-7545 NEW YORK 635 Fourth Ave., Brooklyn, NY 11232 (718) 499-6600 Government Services Division: (718) 499-6600 NORFOLK 115 Third St., Norfolk, VA 23510 (757) 622-1892 OAKLAND 1121 7th St., Oakland, CA 94607 (510) 444-2360 PHILADELPHIA 2604 S. 4 St., Philadelphia, PA 19148 (215) 336-3818 PINEY POINT P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674 (301) 994-0010 PORT EVERGLADES 1221 S. Andrews Ave., Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33316 (954) 522-7984 SANTURCE 1057 Fernandez Juncos Ave., Stop 16 Santurce, PR 00907 (787) 721-4033 ST. LOUIS/ALTON 4581 Gravois Ave., St. Louis, MO 63116 (314) 752-6500 TACOMA 3411 South Union Ave., Tacoma, WA 98409 (253) 272-7774 WILMINGTON 510 N. Broad Ave., Wilmington, CA 90744 (310) 549-4000 This photo was taken in late 1975 at the old hall in Jacksonville, Fla. From left, members Thomas Dodson and Jack Nelson secure ballots from SIU representatives Jimmy Davis and Tony Aronica as the Seafarers prepare to vote in the union’s election. If anyone has a vintage union-related photograph he or she would like to share with other Seafarers LOG readers, please send it to the Seafarers LOG, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. Photographs will be returned, if so requested. High-resolution digital images may be sent to webmaster@seafarers.org 8 Seafarers LOG 15041_January_LOG_X.indd 8 January 2013 12/20/2012 4:57:56 PM �Paul Hall Center School Supplement This course guide for the Paul Hall Center and its Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship is intended as a convenience to SIU members. Please keep it for reference. Prerequisites for all upgrading courses at the Paul Hall Center include being at least 18 years old, holding a valid U.S. Merchant Mariner Credential/Document and TWIC, passing a physical exam, and English language proficiency. Introduction The SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, which opened in 1967, is the largest training facility for deep sea merchant seafarers and inland waterways boatmen in the United States. The school has developed a pioneering approach to education that has successfully integrated vocational training, academic enrichment and trade union responsibility. Named after Paul Hall (1915-1980), an outstanding past president of the SIU, the center is the product of a unique cooperative effort by the Seafarers International Union and the management of privately owned American-flag deep sea ships and inland tugs and towboats. The campus is located on 60 acres in picturesque Piney Point, Md., at the confluence of the Potomac River and St. George’s Creek. It features state-of-the-art equipment, knowledgeable instructors and helpful staff members. Tens of thousands of rated and licensed seamen have completed upgrading classes at the training center. Additionally, more than 23,000 men and women from every state in the U.S., Puerto Rico and several U.S. territories have graduated from the trainee program for those just beginning their maritime careers. The school is committed to providing the nation’s maritime industry with skilled, physically fit and responsible deep sea seafarers and inland waterways boatmen. The school believes that the men and women who choose careers as professional seafarers or boatmen must be provided with the knowledge and skills to keep pace with technological advances within their industries. As a result, the school has developed a total program for professional advancement as a boatman or deep sea mariner. The Paul Hall Center—which includes, among other components, the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship and the Joseph Sacco Fire Fighting and Safety School—offers more than 70 U.S. Coast Guardapproved classes, many of which emphasize hands-on training. An overview of many of the courses available at Piney Point is contained in this eight-page section. Detailed information also appears on the website www. seafarers. org, in the Paul Hall Center section. Students should note that courses and class dates may change due to the manpower needs of SIU-contracted companies. Therefore, Seafarers should check the latest issue of the Seafarers LOG for the most up-to-date class listings. Schedules also are available on the website, and additional course descriptions may be posted, too. The basic eligibility for SIU members who want to upgrade at Piney Point includes a valid clinic card, a TWIC, 125 days’ sea time in the previous year, one day of sea time in the last six months prior to the date the class starts, a copy of their z-card (front and back), or a merchant mariner credential, a copy of the identification page of their union book, plus any other course-specific requirements. If the course mandates a U.S. Coast Guard test to acquire the endorsement, then the upgrader must meet all Coast Guard requirements prior to taking the class. Some courses have other specific requirements which are printed in italic. For more information about the Paul Hall Center or any of its courses, contact the Admissions Office, Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674-0075, or call (301) 9940010. Paul Hall Center Course Guide for 2013 Deck Department Advanced Navigation (SHLSOS-19) This course meets the mandatory minimum requirements for knowledge, understanding, and proficiency in Table A-II/2 of STCW 1995 for the function, “Navigation at the Management Level.” It is intended for mariners sailing or wishing to sail aboard U.S.A.-flagged ships under contract to Seafarers International Union and who meet all of the requirements to enroll in the course. This functional element provides detailed knowledge to support the training outcomes related to the Navigation at the Management Level. This course supports training in the following Management Level control sheets: M-1-1A, Create a Navigation Plan; M-1-1B, Position Reporting Systems; M1-2G, Great Circle Sailing; M-1-2H, Mercator Sailing – Course & Distance; M-1-2I, Mercator Sailing – Final Position; M-1-3A, Position Fix by Terrestrial Bearings; M-1-4A, GPS Waypoint Entry; M-2-1A, Determine Magnetic compass Deviation; M-2-1B, Construct a Deviation Table; M-2-1C, Amplitude of the Sun; M-2-1D, Apply Compass Error to Magnetic Course; M-1-2E, Apply Compass Error to Magnetic Bearings; and M-2-1F, Apply Compass Error to Gyrocompass Course. Prerequisite: Meet eligibility requirements for Management level license Advanced Shiphandling (SHLSOS-22) This course meets the requirements from IMO model course 7.01 and the STCW Code Table A-II/2 for the training of Masters and Chief Officers in reference to maintaining safety and security of the crew and passengers and the operational condition of safety equipment. The objective is for students to have a practical understanding of shiphandling. Students will apply lecture material to practical simulator exercises designed to meet the assessment standard of this course. This functional element provides detailed knowledge to support the training outcomes related to the Navigation at the Management Level. This course specifically addresses the following Advanced Shiphandling (Management Level) assessments: M-7-1A Actions after Grounding, M-7-2A Re-floating a Grounded Ship, M-7-3A Prepare for Collision, M-7-3B Actions After a Collision, M-7-4A Emergency Steering, M-7-5A Emergency Towing, M8-1A Maneuver to Embark/Disembark a Pilot, M-8-2A Transit Restricted Waters, M-8-3A Constant Rate of Turn Techniques, M-8-4A January 2013 15041_January_LOG_X.indd 9 Shallow Water Effects—Squat, M-8-5A Shallow Water Effects—Passing Vessels, M-8-6A Vessel Docking—Starboard Side To, M-8-6B Vessel Docking—Port Side To, M-8-7A Turn vessel with Tug Assistance, M-8-8A Anchoring, M-8-9A Dragging anchor. Prerequisite: Meet eligibility requirements for Management level license Apprentice Mate (Steersman) (SHLSOS-31) (NST 249) The Paul Hall Center’s 103-hourApprentice Mate (Steersman), Near Coastal course is a self-certifying course for mariners who are employed, or maybe employed, on uninspected towing vessels sailing under U.S. flag or registered/documented under any political subdivision in the United States. Training meets or exceeds requirements of 46 CFR 10.205(i) for original issuance or 46 CFR10. 209(c)(iii) for renewal of a license as Apprentice Mate (Steersman) of Towing Vessels (Near Coastal and Great Lakes;—OR—(2) the examination requirements of 46 CFR 10.205(i) for original issuance or 46 CFR 10. 209(c)(iii) for renewal of a license as Master of Towing Vessels(Near Coastal and Great Lakes) provided that they also provide evidence of service in the towing industry before May 21,2001, AND that the requirements of 46CFR 10.464(h) are also met. After obtaining the requisite sea service and fulfilling other U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) requirements pertaining to this license, successful students will be able to take responsibility for the safety of an inspected towing vessel; be aware of obligations under Coast Guard regulations concerning safety and protection of passengers, crew, and the marine environment; and, be able to take the practical measures necessary to meet those obligations. Successful students will be issued a certificate of completion for an Apprentice Mate (Steersman), Near Coastal course. Prerequisites: Radar Observer Unlimited certificate; Able Seaman endorsement (any) Automatic Radar Plotting Aids (ARPA) (SHLSOS-37) Applicants completing our 32-hour Automatic Radar Plotting Aids (ARPA) course, including successful demonstration of all practical assessments, satisfy the ARPA training requirements for certification as Officer in Charge of a Navigational Watch on vessels of 500 or more gross tonnage (ITC) and of 46 CFR10.205(m)(1). The practical assessments conducted in this course are equivalent to the following assessments from the National Assessment Guidelines for TableA-II/1 of the STCW Code: OICNW-3-2A; OICNW-3-2B; OICNW-3-2C;OICNW-3-2D; OICNW-3-2E; OICNW-3-2F; OICNW- 3-2G; OICNW-3- 2H;OICNW-3-2I; OICNW-3-2J; OICNW3-2K; OICNW-3-2L; and OICNW-3- 2M. (Navigation exercises assume background in chart work and coastal navigation.) This course of instruction incorporates the use of ARPA simulation equipment to operate, observe, and use the radar plotting aids. Students gain an understanding of the limitations of the aids as well as their performance factors, sensor inputs and malfunctions and gain knowledge of tracking capabilities, processing, operational warnings, and target acquisition. Prerequisite: Radar Observer Basic Meteorology (SHLSOS-62) (NST 239) Any applicant who has successfully completed our 40-hour Meteorology (Operational Level) course will satisfy the Meteorology training requirements for certification as Officer in Charge of a Navigational Watch on vessels of 500 or more gross tonnage (ITC). The practical assessments conducted in this course will be accepted as the equivalent of OICNW1-7A; OICNW-1-7B; and OICNW-1-7C from the National Assessment Guidelines for Table A-II/1 of the STCW Code. Applicants who have successfully completed the course need not present completed “Control Sheets” for these assessments in application for STCW certification. Prerequisite: AB with one year of sea service Bridge Resource Management (SHLSOS-75) Applicants completing our 30-hour Bridge Resource Management course satisfy the requirements of 46 CFR 10.205(o) and the requirements of Section B-VIII/ 2, Part 3-1 of the STCW Code. Bridge Resource Management-Unlimited is designed for persons with significant shipping experience who hold or are seeking a U.S. Coast Guard license. This course fulfills the training requirements of effective bridge teamwork as set forth in STCW 95, A-II/1, A-II/2, and BVIII/ 2 and 46 CFR 10.25 and 10.209. Prerequisites: Radar Unlimited, ARPA, License of 200 Gross Tons or greater OR seeking an original third mate or limited license Bridge Resource Management (1600 Tons or less) (SHLSOS-76) Students who successfully complete this course will have the knowledge and experience needed to continually reassess the alloca- Seafarers LOG 9 12/20/2012 4:58:01 PM �tion and use of bridge resources using bridge management principles. Applicants completing our 26-hour Bridge Resource Management (1600 Tons) course satisfy the requirements of 46 CFR 10.205(o) and the requirements of Section B-VIII/2, Part 3-1 of the STCW Code. THIS APPROVAL IS LIMITED TO SERVICE UPON VESSELS OF NOT MORE THAN 1600 GROSS TONS (DOMESTIC). Prerequisites: Radar Unlimited, ARPA, License of 200 gross tons or greater OR in the process of getting license Celestial Navigation (SHLSOS-103) Applicants completing our 126-hour Celestial Navigation course with a passing grade of at least 80 percent satisfy the Celestial Navigation training requirements for certification as Officer in Charge of a Navigational Watch on vessels of 500 or more gross tonnage (ITC). In conjunction with this course, any approved instructor is authorized to sign off for a successful demonstration on the students’ “Control Sheets” for the following assessments from the National Assessment Guidelines for Table A-II/1 of the STCW Code: OICNW-1-1A; OICNW-1-1B; OICNW-1-1C; OICNW-1-1D; OICNW-1-1E and OICNW-1-1F. The course covers the areas of celestial navigation required for licensing as a second or third mate unlimited and for all limited licenses. Students are instructed in latitude observations by sun and Polaris, running fixes by sun, stars, and planets, compass error by amplitude and azimuth, star identification, and care and use of the sextant. Prerequisites: ARPA, Radar Observer Crisis Management & Human Behavior (SHLSOS-138) Applicants completing our 7-hourCrisis Management & Human Behavior course satisfy: (1) the Crisis Management & Human Behavior training requirements of Table A-V/2and Paragraph 5 of Section A-V/2 of the STCW Code for Passenger Ships Other Than Ro-Ro Passenger Ships;—AND—(2) the Passenger Safety training requirements of Paragraph 4 of Section A-V/2 of the STCW Code for Passenger Ships Other Than Ro-Ro Passenger Ships. This course is designed for any person responsible for the safety of passengers in an emergency on passenger ships. The training includes organizing the safe movement of passengers when embarking and disembarking, organizing shipboard emergency procedures, optimizing the use of resources, controlling responses to emergencies, controlling passengers and other personnel during emergency situations, and establishing and maintaining effective communications. Prerequisites: No additional prerequisites Crowd Management (SHLSOS-142) Applicants completing our four-hour Crowd Management course satisfy: (1) the Crowd Management training requirements of Paragraph 1 of SectionA-V/3 of the STCW Code for Passenger Ships Other Than Ro-Ro Passenger Vessels;—AND—(2) the Safety Training requirements of Paragraph 3 of Section A-V/3 of the STCW Code for Passenger Ships Other Than Ro-Ro Passenger Vessels. This course profiles the required knowledge and applicable skills for crowd management including controlling a crowd in an emergency, locating safety and emergency equipment on board a vessel, complying with ships’ emergency procedures, effective communications during an emergency, and demonstrating the use of personal lifesaving devices. Prerequisites: No additional prerequisites Designated Deck Engineer (Non-STCW) This course prepares the student for the USCG examination for Designated Duty Engineer (DDE). The object of the course is to familiarize the student with the subjects and topics required for successful preparation for the USCG examination and to prepare the student to act in these capacities as outlined in the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR). Instruction includes the CFR, environmental protection and oil pollution, general safety precautions for engine room personnel, piping, air, hydraulics, power and control systems, refrigeration, heating, air conditioning and ventilation systems, electrical theory and shipboard lighting and auxiliary deck machinery. Prerequisites: General admission requirements, prior Coast Guard approval letter valid through test dates of the class Electronic Chart Display Information Systems (ECDIS) (SHLSOS-179) Applicants completing our 35-hour Electronic Chart Display Information Systems (ECDIS) course are considered to have successfully demonstrated the competencies “Plan and Conduct a Passage and Determine Position: Thorough Knowledge of and Ability to Use ECDIS” of Table A-II/1 of the STCW Code AND “Determine Position and the Accuracy of Resultant Position Fix: Position Determination Using ECDIS With Specific Knowledge of its Operating Principles, Limitations, Sources of Error, Detection of Misrepresentation of information and Methods of Correction to Obtain Accurate Position Fixing” of Table A-II/2 of the STCW Code. The course provides training in the basic theory and use of electronic chart display and information systems (ECDIS) for those who will be in charge of a navigational watch on vessels equipped with ECDIS. Students learn to use, update, and verify electronic chart information. The training comprises all safety-relevant aspects and aims beyond the use of operational controls. All theoretical aspects and major characteristics of ECDIS data, such as data contents, system integration, information layers, and data updating, are covered in depth. Prerequisites: General admission requirements; ARPA certificate; Radar certificate; Terrestrial and Coastal Navigation training for license preparation; USCG-approved STCW Basic Safety Training course Electronic Navigation (SHLSOS-181) (NST 246) Any applicant who has successfully completed our 40-hour Electronic Navigation course will satisfy the Electronic Navigation training requirements for certification as Officer in Charge of a Navigational Watch on vessels of 500 or more gross tonnage (ITC). The practical assessments in this course will be accepted as the equivalent of the following assessments from the National Assessment Guidelines for Table A-II/1 of the STCW Code: OICNW-1-4A; OICNW-1-4B;OICNW-1-4C; and OICNW-1-4D. Applicants who have successfully completed the course need not present completed “Control Sheets” for these assessments in application for STCW certification. Prerequisite: AB with one year of sea ser- vice, radar and ARPA Fast Rescue Boats (SHLSOS-193) Applicants completing our 30-hour Fast Rescue Boats course satisfy the requirements of Table A-VI/2-2 of the STCW Code, Specification of the Minimum Standard of Competence in Fast Rescue Boats. The Pau Hall Center’s Fast Rescue Boats course trains students to handle and take charge of fast rescue boats during of after launch in adverse weather and sea conditions. Students learn how to operate a fast rescue boat engine, use all locating devices, including communication and signaling equipment between the rescue boat and a helicopter and the ship, and how to carry out search patterns. Prerequisites: Basic Safety, Survival Craft and Rescue Boats other than fast rescue boats. Global Maritime Distress & Safety System (GMDSS) (SHLSOS-210) Applicants completing our 70-hour Global Maritime Distress & Safety System (GMDSS) course with a passing grade of at least 75 percent satisfy the GMDSS training requirements of 46 CFR 10.205(n) and Table A-IV/2 of the STCW Code. Applicants for this 70-hour course must hold a 200-ton or greater license, or show a current U.S. Coast Guard approval letter indicating they are eligible to sit for a license greater than 200 tons. The class is designed to meet the requirements set forth in Table A-IV/2 of the amended STCW convention. Topics include principles of the global marine distress and safety system communications, distress alerting and operational procedures for VHF DSC, INMARST-C, MF/HF, NAVTEX, EPIRB, SART, and VHF (SCT). The course blends classroom instruction and practical exercises. Prerequisites: One year experience as a member of navigational watch on the bridge of an ocean-going vessel OR licensed radio officer or engineer Government Vessels This three-week class is open to mariners sailing in any department. The course is structured as three one-week, stand-alone modules. The modules may be taken in any order. Included in the first week are an introduction to the U.S. Military Sealift Command and military vessels, damage control, CBRD (chemical, biological, radiological defense), anti-terrorism level I and hazardous materials training. The second week features forklift operations, underway replenishment and vertical replenishment. Cargo-handling and crane operations are included in the third week. (This course is required of students attending AB or FOWT courses.) Prerequisites: No additional prerequisites Magnetic and Gyro Compasses (SHLSOS-262) (NST 240) Any applicant who has successfully completed our 20-hour Magnetic and Gyro Compasses course will satisfy the Compass— Magnetic and Gyro training requirements for certification as Officer in Charge of a Navigational Watch on vessels of 500 or more gross tonnage(ITC). The practical assessments in 10 Seafarers LOG 15041_January_LOG_X.indd 10 this course will be accepted as the equivalent of assessments OICNW-1-5A; OICNW-1-5B; OICNW-1-5C; OICNW-1-5D; andOICNW1-5E from the National Assessment Guidelines for Table A-II/1of the STCW Code. Applicants who have successfully completed the course need not present completed “Control Sheets” for these assessments in application for STCW certification. Prerequisite: AB with one year of sea service Master 100 Tons (SHLSOS-281) The Paul Hall Center’s 90-hour Master 100 Tons, Near Coastal course is a self-certifying course for mariners who are employed, or may be employed, on passenger vessels sailing under U.S. flag or registered/documented under any political subdivision in the United States. Training meets or exceeds requirements of 46 CFR 10.206(i) for original license, 46 CFR 10.209(c) (iii) for renewal, and 46CFR 209(f) for reissue. Students who present our certificate of training at a regional exam center within one year of the completion of training will satisfy the exam requirements of 46 CFR 10.205(i) for reissuance of a license. After obtaining the requisite sea service and fulfilling other U.S. Coast Guard requirements pertaining to this license, successful students will be able to take responsibility for the safety of an inspected passenger vessel of 100 tons and its passengers; be aware of obligations under Coast Guard regulations concerning safety and protection of passengers, crew, and the marine environment; and, be able to take the practical measures necessary to meet those obligations. Students successfully completing the course will be issued a certificate for successful completion for a Master 100 Ton, Near Coastal license. Prior to the scheduled class convening date, each candidate must meet the following entrance requirements: Successfully completed a USCG-approved STCW Basic Safety Training course; possess current TWIC, U.S. Merchant Mariner Credential/Document or USCG license; speak, read and understand the English language in accordance with 46 CFR 13.111; provide documented proof of fulfilling the physical examination requirements in accordance with 46CFR 12.15-5; Fundamentals of Navigation, valid Radar Observer Unlimited certificate; Able Seaman endorsement (any) Medical Care Provider (SHLSOS-310) Applicants completing our 21-hour Medical Care Provider course satisfy the Medical First Aid training requirements of Section A-VI/4 and Table A-VI/4-1 of the STCW Code and 46 CFR 12.13-1. This course is designed for mariners who are employed or may be employed on U.S.-flag ships. It meets STCW requirements. Students successfully completing this course must take a refresher course within five years or provide information to the U.S. Coast Guard documenting maintenance of medical skills. Cardiopulmonary (CPR) certification must be renewed annually. Training as a Medical First Aid Provider is the second level of medical training required by STCW. Topics include a review of cardiac and airway management, rescuer safety, body struc- January 2013 12/20/2012 4:58:04 PM �including radar theory, observation, operation and use, interpretation and plotting, advanced radar plotting, collision avoidance and navigational exercise. Students operate modern audiovisual and radar simulation gear, as well as the full shiphandling simulator, as they practice controlling and maneuvering a vessel, plotting courses and safely guiding a ship without jeopardizing the safety of other vessels. Also included are practical exercises and lectures covering inland waterway and river navigation and piloting. Prerequisites: General admission requirements Radar Observer Recertification (SHLSOS-402) Applicants completing our one-day Radar Observer Recertification course satisfy the requirements of 46 CFR10.480(d) for renewal of any Radar Observer endorsement. This course does not satisfy any training or assessment requirements of the STCW Convention and STCW Code. (Navigation exercises assume background in chart work and coastal navigation.) Prerequisites: Radar Observer Unlimited ture, examining trauma victims and medical patients, treating head and spinal injuries, burns, musculoskeletal injuries, and rescued persons. Also included are obtaining radio medical advice, administering medication, and sterilization techniques. Prerequisites: Candidates for the course must possess current certification from the American Red Cross for CPR for the Professional Rescuer or equivalent certification issued through a similar authorizing agency. Candidates also need First Aid. Oil Spill Prevention and Containment This one-week course consists of classroom and practical training exercises. Topics include oil types and petroleum products’ behavior on water; pollution prevention regulations; hazardous materials training; spill prevention; absorbents, suction equipment, skimmers, and their proper use; and small boat operations. Students also receive instruction in spill containment booms, boom towing configurations, and anchoring operations. Prerequisites: No additional prerequisites man, PROVIDED that sea service requirements are also met;—AND—(2) if presented WITHIN ONE YEAR of the completion of training, the written and practical examination requirements of 46 CFR12.10-5 for a Lifeboatman endorsement(exam module 481xx) and the written “Survival Craft” examination requirements for service on vessels not equipped with lifeboats (exam module 441xx or 706xx),— AND—(3) the Personal Survival Techniques training requirements of Section A-VI/1 and Table AVI/1-1 of the STCW Code and 46 CFR10.205(l)(1). This course helps mariners develop the required knowledge and application skills for water survival including launch, use and recovery of survival craft, and the proper use of survival equipment. Additionally, students learn the procedures necessary to take charge and maintain a survival craft and protect embarked personnel while on board. Prerequisites: 180 days of deck sea time Radar Observer (Unlimited) (SHLSOS-399) Applicants completing our five-day Radar Observer (Unlimited) course, including successful demonstration of all practical assessments, satisfy the requirements of 46CFR 10.480 for an endorsement as Radar Observer (Unlimited) and the radar training requirements for certification as Officer in Charge of a Navigational Watch on vessels of 500 or more gross tonnage (ITC). In conjunction with this course, any approved instructor is authorized to sign off for a successful demonstration on the students’ “Control Sheets” for the following assessments from the National Assessment Guidelines for Table A-II/1 of the STCW Code: OICNW-1-2B; OICNW-1-2C; OICNW-3-1A; OICNW-3-1B;OICNW-3-1C; OICNW-3-1D; OICNW-3-1E; OICNW-3-1F; OICNW-3-1G;OICNW-3-1H; OICNW-3-1I; OICNW-3-1J; and OICNW-3-1K. This course features hands-on training and classroom work, Radar Observer Refresher (SHLSOS-406) Applicants completing our three-day Radar Observer Refresher course satisfy the requirements of 46 CFR 10.480(d) for renewal of any Radar Observer endorsement. This course does not satisfy any training or assessment requirements of the STCW Convention and STCW Code. (Navigation exercises assume background in chart work and coastal navigation.) Prerequisite: Radar Observer Unlimited Ratings Forming Part of a Navigational Watch/Able Seaman (SHLSOS-416) Applicants completing our four-week Ratings Forming Part of a Navigational Watch/ Able Seaman program satisfy: (1) the training, seagoing service, and assessment requirements of 46 CFR 12.05-3(c) and Section A-II/4 of the STCW Code, Mandatory Minimum Requirements for Certification of Ratings Forming Part of a Navigational Watch;—AND—(2) if presented WITHIN 1 YEAR of the completion of training, the written examination requirements of 46 CFR 12.05-9 for the “Deck General & Navigation General” and “Deck Safety & Rules of the Road” exam modules for any Able Seaman endorsement and the practical (knot tying) examination requirements of 46 CFR 12.05-9 for any Able Seaman endorsement PROVIDED that all other requirements of 46 CFR Subpart 12.05, including sea service, are also met. The course consists of hands-on training and class- Personal Safety & Social Responsibilities (SHLSOS-359) Applicants completing our four-hour Personal Safety & Social Responsibilities course and presenting our Certificate of Training at a Regional Exam Center, satisfy the Personal Safety & Social Responsibilities training requirements of46 CFR 10.205(l)(4) and Section A-VI/1and Table A-VI/1-4 of the Seafarers’ Training, Certification and Watchkeeping (STCW) Code. This course provides the unlicensed apprentice candidate with a general understanding and basic knowledge of human relationships, social skills necessary for living and working aboard operational merchant ships, and a working knowledge of issues impacting preparedness for international travel. Prerequisites: No additional prerequisites Personal Survival Techniques (SHLSOS-363) Applicants completing our 12-hour Personal Survival Techniques course and presenting our Certificate of Training at a Regional Exam Center, satisfy the Personal Survival training requirements of Section A-VI/1 and Table A-VI/1-1 of the Seafarers’ Training, Certification and Watchkeeping (STCW) Code and 46 CFR10.205(l)(1). Prerequisites: No additional prerequisites Proficiency in Survival Craft/Personal Survival Techniques (Lifeboatman) Applicants completing our 37-hour Proficiency in Survival Craft/Personal Survival Techniques course satisfy: (1) the Survival Craft training requirements of Section A-VI/2 and Table A-VI/2-1 of the STCW Code;— AND—(2) the training requirements of 46 CFR 12.10-3(a)(6) for any endorsement as Lifeboat- January 2013 15041_January_LOG_X.indd 11 Seafarers LOG 11 12/20/2012 4:58:06 PM �Tank Ship Familiarization (Liquefied Gases) (SHLSOS-507) Applicants completing our 30-hour Tank Ship Familiarization (Liquefied Gases) course and presenting our Certificate of Training at a Regional Exam Center, satisfy: (1) the training requirements of 46 CFR 13.409 for an original endorsement as Tankerman-Assistant (LG); —AND— (2) the tanker familiarization training requirements of paragraphs 1-7 of Section A-V/1 of the STCW Code. This course consists of a safety program designed to meet STCW requirements for those who have not served on LNG ships. The course of instruction includes LNG fire fighting, confined space awareness, LNG nomenclature, LNG ship operations, personal safety, LNG safety, hazardous material, LNG cargo tank (level indicators, temperature), LNG cargo pump (Carter pump construction and ops), inert gas generator (general flow system), nitrogen gas system, LNG vapor compressor, warm-up heater and boil-off heater. Prerequisite: Advanced Fire Fighting room work covering deck seamanship, rules of the road, marlinespike seamanship, helmsmanship, cargo handling, safety, fire fighting, emergency procedures, first aid, anchoring, and mooring, and aids to navigation. Prerequisites: Sea service, Water Survival (Lifeboatman), STOS Special: 12 months’ service on deck, two months’ sea service under the supervision of the Master, the OIC of the navigational watch, or qualified ratings (STCW) Limited: 18 months’ service on deck, two months’ sea service under the supervision of the Master, OIC, or qualified ratings Unlimited: three years’ deck, two months’ sea service under the supervision of the Master or OIC Search and Rescue (Operational Level) (SHLSOS-447) (NST 245) Any applicant who has successfully completed our 16-hour Search & Rescue (Operational Level) course will satisfy the Search & Rescue training requirements for certification as Officer in Charge of a Navigational Watch on vessels of 500 or more gross tonnage (ITC). Prerequisite: AB with one year of sea service Specially Trained Ordinary Seaman (STOS) (SHLSOS-465) Applicants completing our 70-hour Specially Trained Ordinary Seaman course and presenting our Certificate of Training at a Regional Exam Center, satisfy the training requirements for service as a Specially Trained Ordinary Seaman AND the training and assessment requirements of Table A-II/4 of the STCW Code, “Specification of Minimum Standard of Competence for Ratings Forming Part of a Navigational Watch,” and 46 CFR 12.05- 3(c) PROVIDED they also present evidence of at least six months’ sea-going service performing navigational watchkeeping functions under the supervision of the Master or officer in charge of the navigational watch. If the applicant does not present evidence of six months of this service, he or she satisfies the training and assessment requirements for certification as Rating Forming Part of a Navigational Watch RESTRICTED to lookout duties only. This certification is valid for one year and may not be renewed. This course is designed for deck trainees who need a fast track to Ratings Forming Part of the Navigational Watch. It meets the requirements of 46 CFR12.05.3(c) and STCW Table A-II/4. Topics covered in the course include: anchoring, mooring, knot-tying, gyro and magnetic compass, wheel watch, error chain analysis and pilot interactions, helm control, rules of the road, IALA buoy systems, shipboard communication, helm watch relief and lookout watch. Prerequisites: UA Program Phases 1and 2, or 180 days as an OS Tank Barge Dangerous Liquids (SHLSOS-491) Applicants completing our 38-hour Tank Barge Dangerous Liquids Course and presenting our Certificate of Training at a Regional Exam Center, satisfy the training requirements of 46 CFR 13.309 for an endorsement as Tankerman-PIC (Barge). Prerequisites: Basic Fire Fighting Tank Ship Dangerous Liquids (SHLSOS-501) Applicants completing our five-day Tank 12 Seafarers LOG 15041_January_LOG_X.indd 12 Ship Dangerous Liquids course satisfy the training requirements of 46 CFR 13.113(d) (1) (ii) (A), 13.115 (b) (1),13.209, 13.309, 13.409 or 13.509 for any dangerous liquids tankerman endorsement. This course provides training for masters, chief engineers, officers, and any person with immediate responsibility for the loading, discharging and care in transit or handling of cargo. It comprises a specialized training program appropriate to their duties, including oil tanker safety, fire safety measure and systems, pollution prevention, operational practice and obligations under applicable laws and regulations. Prerequisites: three months’ seagoing service on tankers (DL) OR completion of a Tank Ship Familiarization (Dangerous Liquids) covering STCW Code Section A-V/1 para. 2-8. Fire fighting course in accordance with 47 CFR13.121 Table 13.121(g) OR Paul Hall Center Basic Fire Fighting, USCG-approved STCW Basic Safety Training course Tank Ship Dangerous Liquids (Simulator) (SHLSOS-503) Applicants completing our 53-hour Tank Ship Dangerous Liquids (Simulator) course satisfy the training requirements of 46 CFR 13.113(d)(1)(ii)(A), 13.115(b)(1), 13.209, 13.309, 13.409 or 13.509 for any dangerous liquids tankerman endorsement;—AND— receive credit for: (1) two loadings and two discharges which may be applied toward satisfying the requirements of 46 CFR13.203(b)(1);—AND— (2) one commencement of loading and one completion of loading which may be applied toward satisfying the requirements in 46CFR 13.203(b)(2);—AND—(3) one commencement of discharge and one completion of discharge which may be applied toward satisfying the requirements in 46 CFR 13.203(b)(3). This course provides training for masters, chief engineers, officers, and any person with immediate responsibility for the loading, discharging and care in transit or handling of cargo. It comprises as specialized training program appropriate to their duties, including oil tanker safety, fire safety measure and systems, pollution prevention, operational practice and obligations under applicable laws and regulations. Prerequisites: three months’ seagoing service on tankers (DL) OR completion of a Tank Ship Familiarization (Dangerous Liquids) (Paul Hall Center “Tanker Assistant” course) to cover STCW Code Section A-V/1 para. 2-8. Fire fighting course in accordance with 47 CFR13.121 Table 13.121(g) OR Paul Hall Center Basic Fire Fighting, U.S.C.G.-approved STCW Basic Safety Training course Vessel Security Officer (SHLSOS-573) This 12-hour course provides knowledge to those wishing to perform the duties and responsibilities of a Vessel Security Officer (VSO) as defined in section A/2.1.6 (and section A/12.1) of the ISPS Code with respect to the security of a ship, for implementing and maintaining a Ship Security Plan, and for liaising with the Company Security Officer (CSO) and Port Facility Security Officers (PFSOs). Successful students will be able to undertake the duties and responsibilities as Vessel Security Officer as defined in section A/12.2 of the ISPS Code. Prerequisites: No additional prerequisites Visual Communications (Flashing Light) (SHLSOS-542) Applicants completing our one-day Visual Communications course with a minimum score of 80 percent will: (1) Satisfy the practical signaling examination requirements (flashing light) of 46 CFR10.401(h) IF presented WITHIN 1 YEAR of the completion of training;—AND—(2) Be considered to have successfully demonstrated the competence “Transmit and Receive In formation by Visual Signaling” of Table A-II/1 of the STCW Code. Prerequisites: No additional prerequisites Water Survival (SHLSOS-549) The Water Survival course delivers 60 hours of training to those who are seeking a MMD endorsement for Lifeboatman as required by 46 CFR. The course also incorporates the personal survival training requirements as outlined in STCW 1995 VI/1. The course provides the student with the required knowledge and application skills for water survival including launch, use and recovery of survival craft, and the proper use of survival equipment. Additionally, the student will understand the procedures necessary to take charge of and maintain survival craft and protect embarked personnel. Terrestrial & Coastal Navigation (SHLSOS-512) (NST 241) Any applicant who has successfully completed our 80-hour Terrestrial &Coastal Navigation course will satisfy the Terrestrial Navigation and Coastal Navigation training requirements for certification as Officer in Charge of a Navigational Watch on vessels of 500 or more gross tonnage (ITC). The practical assessments conducted in this course will be accepted as the equivalent of the following assessments from the National Assessment Guidelines for Table AII/1 of the STCW Code: OICNW-1-2A; OICNW-1-2B; OICNW-1-2C; OICNW-1-2D; OICNW-1-3A;OICNW-1-3B; and OICNW-1-3C.Applicants who have successfully completed the course need not present completed “Control Sheets” for these assessments in application for STCW certification. Prerequisite: AB with one year of sea service Emergency Procedures (Operational Level) (SHLSOS-185) (NST 244) The Paul Hall Center’s 21-hour Emergency Procedures at the Operational Level course is designed for mariners who are employed, or may be employed, on U.S.-flagged vessels. This stand-alone course is a component of the Paul Hall Center’s Officer in Charge of a Navigational Watch (OICNW) Program. The functional elements of this course specifically meet Function 1: Navigation at the Operational Level; Competence 1.4 Respond to Emergencies; and Knowledge, Understanding, and Proficiency 1.4.1 Precautions for Protection and Safety of Passengers of the International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) OICNW Model Course No. 7.03 and the requirements of USCG Policy Letter 01-02. No OICNW assessments will be conducted in this course. Successful candidates will earn a Paul Hall Center certificate of training for Emergency Procedures at the Operational Level. Prior to the scheduled class convening date, each candidate must meet the following entrance requirements: Successfully completed a USCG-approved STCW Basic Safety Training course; possess current TWIC, U.S. Merchant Mariner Credential/Document or USCG license; speak, read and understand the English language in accordance with 46 CFR 13.111; provide documented proof of fulfilling the physical examination requirements in accordance with 46CFR 12.15-5 Basic Cargo Handling and Stowage (Operational Level) (SHLSOS-101) (NST 242) The Paul Hall Center’s Basic Cargo Handling and Stowage course is a 40-hour course for students who are employed, or may be employed, on U.S.-flag vessels as required by STCW 1995, as amended, and are licensed or intending to be licensed personnel. On successful completion of this course, students will be able to use cargo plans and tables or diagrams of stability and trim data to calculate the ship’s initial stability, drafts, and trim for any given description of cargo and other weights. They will also be able to determine whether stresses on the ship are within permitted limits by the use of stress data or calculation equipment, or software. They will understand safety precaution used prior to entering enclosed or potentially contaminated spaces. Students should be able to supervise the preparation and dunnaging of holds and the operation of ships’ cargo gear and will be aware of the importance of adequately securing cargo to prevent damage to the ship or cargo. Trainees will identify dangerous goods and know that they are stowed and separated according to requirements of the IMDG Code. They will also Tank Ship Familiarization (Dangerous Liquids) (SHLSOS-505) Applicants completing our 63-hour Tank Ship Familiarization (Dangerous Liquids) course satisfy the training requirements of 46 CFR 13.409 for an original endorsement as Tankerman-Assistant DL. This course meets the Code of Federal Regulation requirements for personnel not having the required sea service. The objective of this course is to provide students with the knowledge and skills necessary to conduct operations on tankships. Topics include the 16-hour worker health and safety (HAZWOPER) First Responder/ Operations Level, Ship Design and Operation, Cargo Characteristics, Enclosed Space Entry, Cargo Transfer and Shipment, and Pollution Prevention, and Emergency Operations and Response. Prerequisite: Fire Fighting January 2013 12/20/2012 4:58:08 PM �know the hazards related to some bulk cargoes and the precautions to take during their loading, carriage, and discharge. Trainees will also have a basic knowledge of the piping and pumping arrangements of oil tankers. This course specifically addresses “Function: Cargo handling and stowage at the operational level” and “Competence: Monitor the loading, stowage, securing, care during the voyage and the unloading of cargoes” and “Knowledge Under standing and Proficiency: Cargo handling, stowage, and securing” found in Table A-II/1 of the STCW Code, amended 1995. This is accomplished through classroom lecture and practical exercises. Students successfully completing this course will be awarded a Paul Hall Center Basic Cargo and Stowage at the Operational Level course certificate. Prior to the scheduled class convening date, each candidate must meet the following entrance requirements: Possess a current TWIC, U.S. Merchant Mariner Credential/Document; provide documented proof of fulfilling the physical examination requirements in accordance with 46 CFR 13.125; speak, read and understand the English language in accordance with 46 CFR 13.111; provide documented proof of fulfilling USCG-approved sea time requirements, completion of Basic Stability course Basic Shiphandling and Steering Control Systems (SHLSOS-72) (NST 247) Any applicant who has successfully completed the 40-hour Basic Shiphandling and Steering Control Systems (Operational Level) course will satisfy the Basic Shiphandling and Steering Control Systems training requirements for certification as Officer in Charge of a Navigational Watch on vessels of 500 or more gross tonnage (ITC). The practical assessments in this class will be accepted as the equivalent of the following assessments from the National Assessment Guidelines for Table A-II/1 of the STCW Code: OICNW-1-6A; OICNW-1-6B; OICNW-5-1A; OICNW-5-1B; andOICNW5-1C. Applicants who have successfully completed the course need not present completed “Control Sheets” for these assessments in application for STCW certification. Prerequisite: AB with one year of sea service Ship Construction and Basic Stability (SHLSOS-449) (NST 243) The Paul Hall Center’s 40-hour Ship Construction at the Operational Level course is intended to provide training at the basic level for mariners who are employed, or may be employed, on U.S.-flag vessels whose responsibilities include maintaining the seaworthiness of the ship. It takes into account STCW Code Table A-II/1: Function: controlling the operation of the ship and care for persons on board at the operational level; Ship construction. Upon successful completion of the course, students will have general knowledge of the principal structural members of a ship and the proper names for the various parts. At course completion, successful students will receive a Paul Hall Center certificate of completion in Ship Construction at the Operational Level. This course is open to watchkeeping officers, seamen who are training to become watchkeeping officers, and those who are responsible for loading cargoes. Trainees will be expected to use simple graphs and basic arithmetical skills and must meet the following requirements: USCG-approved STCW Basic Safety Training course; a current TWIC, U.S. Merchant Mariner Credential/Document/or USCG license; read, speak and understand the English language at a level sufficient to perform job duties; provide documented proof of fulfilling the physical examination requirements in accordance with 46 CFR 12.05-7 Watchkeeping (Operational Level) (NST 248) Any applicant who has successfully completed our 80-hour Watchkeeping (Operational Level) course will satisfy the Watchkeeping training requirements for certification as Officer in Charge of a Navigational Watch on vessels of 500 or more gross tonnage (ITC); AND the Bridge Resource Management training requirements of 46 CFR 10.205(o) and the requirements of Section B-VIII/2, Part 3-1 of the STCW Code. The practical assessments conducted in this course will be accepted as the equivalent of assessments OICNW-2-1A; OICNW-2-1B, OICNW-2-1C, OICNW-2-1D, OICNW-2-1E, OICNW-2-1F, OICNW-2-2A, OICNW-2-2B, OICNW-2-2C, OICNW-2-2D, OICNW-2-2E, OICNW-2-2F, OICNW-2-3A, OICNW-2-3B, OICNW-2-3C, OICNW-2-3D, OICNW-2-3E, OICNW-2-3F,OICNW-2-3G, AND OICNW-2-3H from the National Assessment Guidelines for Table A-II/1 of the STCW Code. Applicants who have successfully completed the course need not present completed “Control Sheets” for these assessments in application for STCW certification. Prerequisite: AB with one year of sea service Engine Department Many engine department courses have prerequisites. For example, to be accepted for Advanced Refrigeration/Containers, students must have successfully completed Basic Marine Electrician and Refrigeration System Maintenance and Operations. Automated Cargo Operations This six-week course of instruction in the pumpman career track includes classroom and simulator training in all facets of liquid cargo loading and discharge. The curriculum consists of cargo properties and emergency procedures, operation and maintenance of valves and pumps, loading procedures, cargo pump operations, cargo measurement, discharging procedures, ballasting procedures, tank cleaning, inert gas systems and more. Prerequisites: QMED-Any Rating Class 3 or QMED Junior Engineer/Pumpman Class 3. Recommended: Basic and Intermediate Math and Computer Basic Advanced plant maintenance must be completed for advancement to QMED Class 2 Basic Auxiliary Plant Operations (SHLSOS-51) Applicants completing our 140-hour Basic Auxiliary Plant Operations course and who present our Certificate of Training at a Regional Exam Center WITHIN ONE YEAR of the completion of training, satisfy the examination requirements of 46 CFR 12.15-9 for the General Safety examination module, PROVIDED they have also completed either our 63-hour Basic Motor Plant Operations course and/or our 70hour Basic Steam Plant Operations course. Applicants who have successfully completed our course need not present individually completed “Control Sheets” for the assessments in application for STCW certification. The objective of this course is to provide students with knowledge and practical opera- tional skills required of rated engine department watchstanders as they sail in the capacity of FOWT. This objective is accomplished through classroom lectures and shore-side auxiliary plant simulator practical exercises. Prerequisites: Same as FOWT program Basic Electricity (SHLSOS-52) This is a 10-day course designed for students who have completed the Ratings Forming Part of an Engineering Watch program or rated engine department personnel desiring to upgrade their skills. The course is designed for those seeking qualification as a QMED and Junior Engineer endorsement. The course provides the mariner electrical skills required of a rated member of the engine department. Topics covered include the fundamentals of electricity, electrical safety, batteries, direct current circuits, alternating current theory, D.C. machines, A.C. machines, motor controllers, distribution systems, propulsion systems and communication systems. Detailed learning objectives are identified in Section II. Prerequisites: Tankerman Familiarization Dangerous Liquids (DL) course, Basic Auxiliary Plant Operations course, Fireman Oiler Watertender (FOWT) program or hold FOWT endorsement, six months’ equivalent sea service in the engine room Basic Motor Plant Operations (SHLSOS-63) This is an upgrade course for rated Oilers as prescribed in table A-III/4 of the STCW Code, and 46 CFR 12.15-7, and 12.15-9. The course provides skills required of rated engine department watchstanders. Steam and water cycle and steam thermodynamics and components are covered as well as steam plant simulator operations, casualty control procedures, maintenance, watchkeeping, and conducting machinery space rounds. Basic Refrigeration & Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) (SHLSOS-64) The Paul Hall Center’s Basic Refrigeration & Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) course is a 10-day (70 hour) course for students who have completed the Ratings Forming Part of an Engineering Watch program Academic Department The Academic Department has a long history of providing support and services to students at the Paul Hall Center. Since the founding of the school in Piney Point, Md., there has been academic support for students taking vocational programs as well as for those students who require basic skills, English language skills or wish to continue their education. There are a variety of opportunities offered to all students. Specific questions about the programs can be answered or explained by contacting the Academic Department at (301) 994-0010, ext. 5411 tance is offered to prepare students to take the test in Maryland or in their home state. Emphasis is placed on writing skills, social studies, science, interpreting literature and art, and mathematics. GED students receive individualized instruction in preparation for the test. The school for many years has successfully prepared mariners to pass the test. For many students, this is a milestone in their lives. Successful students will receive a Maryland High School Diploma upon completion of this program. (A 12-week residency is required prior to taking the test in Maryland.) General Education Program – Maryland High School Diploma The GED program is open to all mariners who do not have a high school diploma. Assis- Basic Vocational Support Program The vocational support system assists students in improving course-specific vocational language and mathematical skills. It is de- January 2013 15041_January_LOG_X.indd 13 signed to augment the skills introduced in their vocational training classes. This program may be taken prior to attending the vocation class or concurrently with the vocational class. It is ideal for those students who have been away from the classroom, need to improve basic academic skills or who are not native English speakers. College Program The Paul Hall Center is a degree granting institution approved by the Maryland Higher Education Commission. Students may apply for college credit for many of the vocational courses that they take while upgrading at the school. In addition, the center offers general education courses required for an associate’s degree. The school currently offers Associ- ate of Applied Science degree programs in Nautical Science Technology (deck department students) or Marine Engineering Technology (engine department students). There also is a certificate program in maritime technology with concentrations in nautical science or marine engineering. All programs are designed to provide the opportunity for mariners to earn a college degree or certificate in their occupational areas and provide a solid academic foundation in general education subjects. Students are required to have a total of 60 to 70 college hours to earn a degree. Students also may take advantage of remedial programs that help prepare them for college level courses. It is recommended that students meet with a counselor to plan a college program. Seafarers LOG 13 12/20/2012 4:58:10 PM �sea project; total USCG-approved sea service or equivalent sea service in the engine room of vessels of at least six months; meet all USCG physical standards for qualified members of the engine department. Military veterans meeting the prior military sea service requirement in the engine room of vessels must meet the following entrance requirements: Prior approval to the military veterans program for ratings forming part of an engineering watch; meet all USCG physical standards for qualified members of the engine department Hydraulics The curriculum in the four-week hydraulics course blends practical training with classroom work. Fluids, actuators, control devices, pumps, reservoirs, symbols, and hydraulic systems in marine equipment are among the subjects covered in this class. Also addressed are principles of electrical control of hydraulic systems, cargo winches, deck cranes, anchor windlasses, ships’ steering systems, ramps, fire doors, and a variety of other shipboard systems. Prerequisite: QMED-Any Rating Junior Engineer The Junior Engineer Program consists of stand-alone courses 70-hour Basic Propulsion Systems Maintenance, 70-hour Basic Refrigeration & HVAC, 70-hour Basic Electricity, and 203-hour Auxiliary Plant Maintenance courses. or rated engine department personnel desiring to upgrade their skills. The course is a standalone course within the Qualified Member of the Engine Department (QMED) program and is designed for those seeking qualification as a QMED and Junior Engineer endorsement. The course provides the mariner the cognitive and practical mechanical skills required of rated engine department personnel in the area of Basic Refrigeration and HVAC as they sail in the capacity of Junior Engineer during voyages on U.S.-flagged vessels. This objective is accomplished through classroom lectures and practical exercises. Proficiency and competency assessments are conducted through knowledge-based written tests and practical demonstrations of skills. Areas covered are electrical and refrigeration safety, refrigeration theory, an introduction to the refrigeration cycle and systems, troubleshooting, and an introduction to HVAC systems. Detailed learning objectives are identified in Section II. Basic Steam Plant Operations (SHLSOS-73) This course is designed for entry level engine department personnel desiring to upgrade to rated Firemen/Watertenders and Oilers (FOWT). It exceeds requirements prescribed in table A-III/4 of the STCW Code. The objective of this course is to provide the mariner skills required of rated engine department watchstanders in the area of steam plant watchstanding. This objective is accomplished through classroom lectures as well as shoreside steam plant simulator practical exercises. Areas covered are the steam and water cycle and steam thermodynamics, boiler types and classification, boiler waterside construction and arrangements, boiler fireside construction and arrangements, air registers and fuel atomizers, forced draft systems, fuel oil service systems, flame/smoke and stack gas analysis, automatic combustion controls, boiler protective devices, and boiler water chemistry and treatment. Also included are turbine types and classification, turbine construction, turbine protective devices and operating controls, steam condensers, condensate systems and air removal equipment, direct contact heaters, feed systems, steam systems, condensate drains systems, steam plant propulsion machinery, lubricating oil systems, and sea water systems. Additionally, steam plant simulator operations, casualty control procedures, burner atomizer maintenance, manual light-off of non-automated boilers, and watchkeeping and conducting machinery space rounds are covered. Prerequisites: Successful completion of the Paul Hall Center Unlicensed Apprentice Training Program, the Auxiliary Plant Operations course, basic safety training, six months’ or equivalent sea service in the engine room. Diesel Engine Technology This four-week course, leading to certification in diesel engine technology, consists of classroom instruction and hands-on training. Topics of instruction include diesel engine theory; two- and four-stroke cycle operating principles; and the construction, operation, maintenance, repair and troubleshooting of low-, medium-and high-speed diesel engines. 14 Seafarers LOG 15041_January_LOG_X2.indd 14 Also covered are associated auxiliaries including intake and exhaust systems, lubrication and cooling systems, and fuel injection and starting systems. Students receive practical training in the operation and repair of diesel engines on board school training vessels. Prerequisites: QMED-Any Rating or equivalent inland experience Engineering Plant Maintenance (SHLSOS-191) The 140-hour Engineering Plant Maintenance course is designed for mariners who have completed the Ratings Forming Part of an Engineering Watch program or who are rated engine department personnel desiring to upgrade their skills. The course is a stand-alone course within the Qualified Member of the Engine Department (QMED) Program and is for those seeking qualification as a QMED and USCG certification as a Junior Engineer/Deck Engineer rating, or for those already holding a rating to earn the Junior Engineer/Deck Engineer rating or acquire the requisite metalworking and mechanical maintenance skills. The course provides mariners the cognitive and practical mechanical skills required of a rated member of the engine department. This is accomplished through classroom lectures and practical exercises. Proficiency and competency assessments are conducted through knowledge-based written tests and practical demonstrations of skills. Topics covered include the mechanics of pumps, drive couplings, heat exchangers, valves, distilling plants, oil/ water separators, air compressors, marine sewage treatment plants, auxiliary boilers, and hydraulic systems, the fundamentals of diesel engines, bearings and gears, lubrication theory, lubrication systems and maintenance, fuel systems, and purifiers. Prerequisites: STCW certification in all areas of basic safety training, successful completion of the SHLSS Fireman Oiler Water Tender (FOWT) program or hold FOWT or Oiler rating endorsements. Fireman, Oiler & Watertender (FOWT) (SHLSOS-382) Applicants completing Basic Auxiliary Plant Operations and both Basic Motor Plant Operations and Basic Steam Plant Operations will meet the requirements for endorsement as FOWT. (These classes are described elsewhere as stand-alone courses.) Applicants completing Basic Auxiliary Plant Operations and either Basic Motor Plant Operations or Basic Steam Plant Operations will be eligible for an FOWT (Restricted) endorsement. Prerequisites: Successful completion of the Paul Hall Center Unlicensed Apprentice Training Program; successful completion of the unlicensed apprentice sea voyage and required sea projects; unlicensed apprentice sea voyage performance evaluations within the engine department as completed by the First Assistant Engineer of at least satisfactory or better; recommendation by the unlicensed apprentice sea voyage participating vessel’s Chief Engineer OR 6 months’ sea time as wiper AND STCW certification in all areas of basic safety training; successful completion of the entry-level sea voyage and auxiliary plant familiarization Machinist (SHLSOS-261) Applicants completing our 102-hour Machinist course, and presenting our Certificate of Training at a Regional Exam Center, satisfy the requirements of 46 CFR 12.15- 9, if presented WITHIN ONE YEAR of the completion of training, for the Machinist examination module, provided they also present evidence of completing the requirements to be endorsed with a Junior Engineer rating endorsement prior to commencing the above training. This course provides mariners cognitive and practical mechanical skills in the area of general metalworking and machine tool operations. Prerequisites: SHLSS Junior Engineer or QMED-Any Rating Marine Electrician (SHLSOS-269) Applicants completing our 280-hour Marine Electrician course, and presenting our Certificate of Training at a Regional Exam Center, satisfy the requirements of 46 CFR 12.15-9, if presented WITHIN ONE YEAR of the completion of training, for the Electrician examination module, provided they also present evidence of acquiring at least 90 days’ engine room service while endorsed as a QMED–Junior Engineer prior to commencing the above training. This course provides engine department personnel with the theoretical and practical knowledge and skills necessary to perform maintenance and repair operations on motors, generators, and controllers on board ship. Prerequisite: Six months QMED, SHLSS Junior Engineer, or QMED-Any Rating Marine Refrigeration Technician (SHLSOS-274) The Paul Hall Center’s Marine Refrigeration Technician course is a six-week (210-hour) course designed for mariners who are employed, or may be employed, on U.S.-flag vessels. Training meets or exceeds requirements of 46 CFR Section 12.15-9 (b) for Refrigeration Engineer. The objective of the Marine Refrig- eration Technician course is to provide engine department personnel with the theoretical and practical knowledge and the skills necessary to perform maintenance and repair operations on ship’s stores plants, air conditioning plants, cargo refrigeration, ventilation and dehumidification equipment, as well as pantry refrigerators, water coolers, and ice machines. An introduction to refrigerated container units will also be presented. Successful candidates will earn a Paul Hall Center certificate of training. Each candidate must have six months’ sea time after Junior Engineer, QMED-Any Rating, or SHLSS Junior Engineer Pumpman (SHLSOS-380) The Paul Hall Center’s Pumpman course is a 70-hour, 10-day course designed for mariners who are employed, or may be employed, on U.S.-flag vessels. Training meets or exceeds requirements of 46 CFR Sec. 12.15-9 (c) for Pumpman. The objective of the Pumpman course is to provide engine department personnel with the theoretical and practical knowledge and the skills necessary to operate, maintain, and repair the equipment associated with the handling of liquid cargo onboard a tankship. Topics covered in the Pumpman course are Inert Gas Systems, Crude Oil Washing (COW) Systems, Vapor Recovery, and two days of assessment in the Cargo Simulator. On successful completion of this course, students will be awarded a Paul Hall Center certificate. Each student must have SHLSS Junior Engineer or QMED-Any Rating, tanker familiarization, U.S. Coast Guard requirements and machinist Refrigerated Containers Advanced Maintenance This four-week course leads to certification in refrigerated containers maintenance and consists of classroom and practical shop training. The training experience enables students to assume the duties of a maintenance electrician on board ships carrying refrigerated containers. Students receive training in all phases of refrigerated container unit operation, maintenance, repair, and troubleshooting. This includes the various types of engines, refrigeration, and electrical systems. The course is designed to help students develop a systematic approach to troubleshooting and maintenance procedures. Prerequisites: SHLSS Junior Engineer or QMED-Any Rating, Marine Electrician and Marine Refrigeration Technician Welding (IMET 210) Classroom instruction and hands-on training compose this four-week course, which features practical training in electric arc welding and cutting and oxyacetylene brazing, welding, and cutting. Prerequisites: No additional prerequisites Steward Department Galley Operations This four-week course provides the student with understanding of the basic baking knowledge and skills potentially required of a member of the steward department. Prerequisites: Paul Hall Center UA Program and 240 days’ sea time OR 365 days’ sea time as an SA January 2013 12/21/2012 10:01:11 AM �and10.401(g)(1) for a license;—AND—(3) the Fire Fighting training requirements of46 CFR 13.113(d)(2)(i)(A),13.113(e)(1)(i)(A) or (B), 13.201(e),13.301(e), 13.401(d) or 13.501(e) for any tankerman endorsement. Prerequisites: No additional prerequisites Basic Fire Fighting (35-Hour) Applicants completing our 35-hour Basic Fire Fighting course and presenting our Certificate of Training at a Regional Exam Center, satisfy: (1) the Basic Safety Fire Prevention and Fire Fighting training requirements of Section A-VI/1and Table A-VI/1-2 of the STCW Code and 46 CFR 10.205(l)(2);— AND—(2) the Basic Fire Fighting training requirements of 46 CFR10.205(g) and 10.401(g) (1) for a license;—AND—(3) the Fire Fighting training requirements of 46CFR 13.113(d) (2)(i)(A),13.113(e)(1)(i)(A) or (B),13.201(e), 13.301(e), 13.401(d) or13.501(e) for any tankerman endorsement. The objective of this course is to familiarize the student with the chemical process of fire, its behavior and the various methods and equipment used to combat it. Prerequisites: No additional prerequisites Certified Chief Cook This course consists of six two-week, standalone modules totaling 12 weeks. This structure allows eligible upgraders to enroll at the start of any module. The objective of the Certified Chief Cook Course (FSM 203) is to provide steward department personnel with an understanding and knowledge of sanitation, nutrition, and the preparation and service of soups, sauces, meats, poultry, and seafood. Prerequisites: Galley Operations and 180 days’ sea time Advanced Galley Operations This course consists of four one-week modules (totaling four weeks). The course provides students with a thorough grasp of the advanced baking knowledge and skills required of a member of the steward department. Prerequisites: Paul Hall Center Certified Chief Cook and 180 days’ sea time Certified Chief Steward The Certified Chief Steward course is a 12-week course for members of the steward department. The course is presented in eight modules. Each module is assessed independently of the others. Modules may be taken in one-week increments with breaks between. This course trains stewards to take charge of a production galley, plan and prepare meals, and supervise employees in galley operations for a period of not less than 28 days. On meeting the minimum requirements for Certified Chief Steward, culinary students will be competent to take charge of a production galley. The Certified Chief Steward course stresses the competencies related to the supervision of the galley, menu planning, requisitioning of supplies, inventory control, and sanitation. Prerequisites: Advanced Galley Operations and 180 days’ sea time Safety Classes Advanced Fire Fighting (SHLSOS-15) Applicants completing our 35-hour Advanced Fire Fighting course satisfy the Advanced Fire Fighting training requirements of Section A-VI/3 and Table AVI/3 of the STCW Code and 46 CFR10.205(l)(2);—AND—the Advanced Fire Fighting training requirements of 46 CFR10.205(g) and 10.401(g)(1) for a license. During this course, students learn to blueprint a vessel and organize emergency squads for fire fighting. The class covers effective communication between crew members and land-based fire units, leadership roles and responsibilities, documentation of crew training, and emergency squad training. Students also learn to inspect and service personal shipboard fire extinguishing equipment before going through shipboard simulations and actual firefighting drills. Prerequisite: Basic Fire Fighting Basic Fire Fighting (16-Hour) Applicants completing our 16-hour Basic Fire Fighting course and presenting our Certificate of Training at a Regional Exam Center, satisfy: (1) the Basic Safety Fire Prevention and Fire Fighting training requirements of Section A-VI/1 and TableA-VI/1-2 of the Seafarers Training, Certification and Watchkeeping (STCW) Code and 46 CFR 10.205(l) (2);—AND—(2) the Basic Fire Fighting training requirements of 46 CFR 10.205(g) January 2013 15041_January_LOG_X.indd 15 Basic Safety Training The Basic Safety Training Program consists of stand-alone courses of components outlined in Basic Fire Fighting, First Aid/CPR, Personal Safety & Social Responsibilities, and Personal Survival Training. Basic Safety Training Renewal (SHLSOS-69) The course was designed for persons sailing aboard military-contracted vessels and satisfies the Military Sealift Command (MSC) three-year BST renewal requirement. It does not replace the requirement of one year of sea duty in the previous five nor the obligation to have completed BST, which is a prerequisite. It does not replace the SHLSS STCW Basic Safety Course, Basic Fire Fighting, or Water Survival training courses required by 46 CFR for USCG endorsement as Lifeboatman. Modules meet or exceed the minimum mandatory requirements of STCW 1995, Section A-VI/1, Mandatory minimum requirements for familiarization and basic safety training and instruction for all seafarers. The course reintroduces students to the fundamental knowledge and skills of basic shipboard safety necessary for employment aboard military-contracted vessels as set out in the STCW Code tables A-VI/1-1 through 1-4. These are personal survival techniques (1-1), fire prevention and fire fighting (1-2), elementary first aid (1-3), and personal safety and social responsibilities (1-4). Students successfully completing this course will be capable of recognizing and responding to an emergency at sea. Course objectives are accomplished through classroom lectures and practical exercises. Prerequisite: BST Combined Basic & Advanced Fire Fighting (SHLSOS-125) Applicants completing our 41-hour Advanced Fire Fighting course satisfy: (1) the Advanced Fire Fighting training requirements of Section AVI/3 and Table AVI/ 3 of the STCW Code and 46 CFR 10.205(l)(2);—AND—(2) the Advanced Fire Fighting training requirements of 46CFR 10.205(g) and 10.401(g)(1) for a license. The objective of this course is to familiarize students with the fundamentals of shipboard and tank barge fire fighting. Prerequisites: No additional prerequisites First Aid & CPR (21-Hour) (SHLSOS-199) Applicants completing our 21-hour First Aid & CPR course satisfy: (1) the Basic Safety-Elementary First Aid training requirements of Section A-VI/1 and Table AVI/ 1-3 of the STCW Code and 46CFR 10.205(l) (3);—AND— (2)—IF—presented WITHIN 1 YEAR of the date of training, the First Aid & CPR training requirements of 46 CFR 10.205(h)(1)(ii)and 10.205(h)(2)(iii) for original issuance of a license. Students in this class learn the principles and techniques of safety and basic first aid, and cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) according to the accepted standards of the American Red Cross. Successful students are awarded a certificate from the American Red Cross. Prerequisites: No additional prerequisites First Aid (8-Hour) Applicants completing our 8-hour Elementary First Aid course and presenting our Certificate of Training at the Regional Exam Center (REC) satisfy: (1) the First Aid training requirements of 46 CFR10.205(h)(1)(ii) for original issuance of a license;—AND—(2) the Basic Safety-Elementary First Aid training requirements of Section A-VI/1 and Table A-VI/1- 3 of the Seafarers Training, Certification and Watchkeeping (STCW) Code and 46 CFR10.205(l)(3). Prerequisites: No additional prerequisites HAZMAT Recertification This one-day class includes a regulatory overview of Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSHA) requirements, reviews of toxology terminology, medical monitoring instruments and techniques, site-control and emergency preparedness, proper use of respiratory protection, and monitoring equipment and new technology. Prerequisite: 24- or 40-hour Hazardous Materials (HAZMAT) courses MSC Courses Marine Environment Marine Environment is a one-day, eighthour course designed for mariners who are employed, or may be employed, on U.S.-flagged MSC vessels in accordance with MSC requirements. This course is designed as a module of the SHLSS Government Vessels Training Program; however, the course can also be used independently. The purpose of the Marine Environment course is to provide the student with an understanding of environmental protection, to include MSC policies regarding compliance with regulations, pollution prevention and spill conservation response readiness. Anti-Terrorism Level I: Anti-Terrorism/ Personal Protection Brief is a one-hour course designed for seafarers who are employed, or may be employed on government vessels. In addition, seafarers who are employed, or may be employed on other U.S.- flagged vessels may also attend this course. Level I: Anti-Terrorism/ Personal Protection Brief” is designed to familiarize the students with the fundamental knowledge and skills necessary to protect themselves when traveling abroad, and meets the requirements issued by the Department of Defense in April 1997. This is accomplished exclusively through classroom lecture. Damage Control Damage Control is a three-day (21-hour) course designed for mariners who are employed, or may be employed, on U.S.-flagged MSC vessels in accordance with MSC requirements. This course is designed as a module of the SHLSS Government Vessels Training Program; however, the course can also be utilized independently. The purpose of the Damage Control course is to provide the student with an understanding of the specific objectives of damage control and the knowledge and practical experience required for effective damage control operations. This is accomplished through classroom lecture and practical exercises. MSC Individual Small Arms Training and Qualification and MSC Individual Small Arms Sustainment Training and Qualification This course meets the standards and content of OPNAVINST 3591.1E Small Arms Training and Qualification and MSC’s Individual Small Arms Training and Qualification and MSC’s Individual Small Arms Sustainment Training and Qualification Course. Helicopter Fire Fighting This course provides tailored team training for mariners who may serve as a member of a ship’s flight deck organization. This course will introduce the mariner to some of the dangers associated with flight deck operations, the equipment and the procedures they will employ when serving as a member of the ship’s flight deck organization. This course will discuss helicopter nomenclature and hazards associated with helicopter operations, classes of fire, personal protective equipment, flight deck fire fighting equipment, helicopter pilot, crew and passenger rescue procedures, helicopter fire suppression and extinguishment procedures and techniques. The mariner will be drilled in the procedures and techniques of pilot rescue and helicopter fire suppression and extinguishment. The mariner will be required to demonstrate proficiency in those procedures and techniques during live fire field exercises. MSC Readiness Refresher This is a refresher course that focuses on the assessment of a mariner’s abilities and competence in Marine Environmental Programs, Basic CBR Defense, Damage Control, Helicopter Fire Fighting, and USCG BST. The course is intended for Civil Service Mariners (CIVMARS) and Contract Mariners (CONMARS) who work aboard MSC-contracted ships. Prerequisite: Basic Safety Training and Helicopter Fire Fighting Seafarers LOG 15 12/20/2012 4:58:14 PM �Paul Hall Center Upgrading Course Information The following is a schedule of courses at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md., for the next few months. All programs are geared toward improving the job skills of Seafarers and promoting the American maritime industry. Please note that this schedule may change to reflect the needs of the membership, the maritime industry and—in times of conflict—the national security. Students attending any of these classes should check in the Saturday before their course’s start date. The courses listed here will begin promptly on the morning of the start dates. For classes ending on a Friday, departure reservations should be made for Saturday. Seafarers who have any questions regarding the upgrading courses offered at the Paul Hall Center may call the admissions office at (301) 994-0010. Title of Course Start Date Date of Completion Title of Course Start Date Date of Completion Junior Engineer January 28 May 4 March 22 June 28 Marine Electrician January 26 March 22 Marine Refer Tech May 4 June 14 Machinist January 19 February 9 February 8 March 1 Welding January 12 February 9 March 9 April 6 May 4 June 1 February 1 March 1 March 29 April 26 May 24 June 21 Deck Department Lifeboatman/Water Survival February 2 March 2 March 30 April 27 May 25 June 22 February 15 March 15 April 12 May 10 June 7 July 5 STOS January 19 April 27 February 1 May 10 Able Seaman February 2 March 16 May 11 March 1 April 12 June 7 Radar Renewal (One day) May 28 May 28 Radar Observer May 4 May 17 ARPA May 18 May 24 Bosun Recertification July 13 August 5 GMDSS January 19 February 1 ECDIS February 23 March 1 Terrestrial/Coastal Navigation February 2 February 22 Engine Department Basic Auxiliary Plant Operations (BAPO) FOWT January 26 March 23 May 18 February 22 April 19 June 14 February 23 April 20 June 15 March 22 May 17 July 12 UPGRADING APPLICATION Name ________________________________________________________________________ Address ______________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________ Telephone (Home)_________________________ (Cell)_________________________ Date of Birth __________________________________________________________________ Deep Sea Member o Lakes Member o Inland Waters Member o If the following information is not filled out completely, your application will not be processed. Social Security #_______________________ Book # _________________________________ Seniority_____________________________ Department_____________________________ Home Port____________________________________________________________________ E-mail_______________________________________________________________________ Endorsement(s) or License(s) now held_____________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________ Are you a graduate of the SHLSS/PHC trainee program? o Yes o No If yes, class # __________________________________________________________________ Have you attended any SHLSS/PHC upgrading courses? o Yes o No If yes, course(s) taken____________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________ With this application, COPIES of the following must be sent: One hundred and twenty-five (125) days seatime for the previous year, one day in the last six months prior to the date your class starts, USMMD (z-card) front and back or relevant pages of merchant mariner credential, front page of your union book indicating your department and seniority, qualifying seatime for the course if it is Coast Guard tested, 1995 STCW Certificate, valid SHBP Clinic Card and TWIC. 16 Seafarers LOG 15041_January_LOG_X.indd 16 Safety Upgrading Courses Basic Firefighting/STCW February 23 March 23 April 13 May 11 June 15 March 1 March 29 April 19 May 17 June 21 Government Vessels January 14 February 11 March 11 April 15 January 18 February 15 March 15 April 19 Tank Pic Barge May 4 May 10 Medical Care Provider January 12 January 18 Steward Department Upgrading Courses Chief Steward January 12 April 13 July 6 February 22 May 24 August 16 Steward Recertification March 16 April 8 Serve Safe March 9 June 8 March 15 June 14 Galley Operations These modules start every Monday. Chief Cook These modules start every other week. The next class will begin January 19. Advanced Galley Operations These modules start every Monday. COURSE ____________________________ START DATE _______________ DATE OF COMPLETION _______________________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________________ LAST VESSEL: ___________________________________ Rating: ____________________ Date On: _______________________________ Date Off:____________________________ SIGNATURE ____________________________________ DATE______________________ NOTE: Transportation will be paid in accordance with the scheduling letter only if you present original receipts and successfully complete the course. If you have any questions, contact your port agent before departing for Piney Point. Not all classes are reimbursable.Return completed application to: Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education Admissions Office, P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674-0075; or fax to (301) 994-2189. The Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education is a private, non-profit, equal opportunity institution and admits students, who are otherwise qualified, of any race, nationality or sex. The school complies with applicable laws with regard to admission, access or treatment of students in its programs or activities. 1/13 January 2013 12/20/2012 4:58:15 PM �Welcome Ashore Each month, the Seafarers LOG pays tribute to the SIU members who have devoted their working lives to sailing aboard U.S.-flag vessels on the deep seas, inland waterways or Great Lakes. Listed below are brief biographical sketches of those members who recently retired from the union. The brothers and sisters of the SIU thank those members for a job well done and wish them happiness and good health in the days ahead. DEEP SEA LUIS ALMODOVAR Brother Luis Almodovar, 60, signed on with the Seafarers in 1970 while in the port of New York. He originally sailed with Maimonides Transportation Corporation. Brother Almodovar shipped in the engine department. He upgraded often at the Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md. Brother Almodovar’s most recent trip was on a Cargotec Services vessel. He was born in San Grande, P.R., and now lives in New York. LESLIE ALVAREZ Sister Leslie Alvarez, 67, began sailing with the union in 1997. She initially shipped aboard the Independence. Sister Alvarez was born in Honduras and sailed in the steward department. She attended classes on two occasions at the Piney Point school. Sister Alvarez’s most recent ship was the St. Louis Express. She is a resident of Houston. BERNARD BLUNT Brother Bernard Blunt, 68, joined the SIU in 1976 while in New Orleans. He started in the inland division as a member of the deck department but spent most of his career sailing deep sea. Brother Blunt’s first trip was with Z Louisiana Dock. He upgraded in 2009 at the unionaffiliated school in Piney Point. Brother Blunt last worked aboard the Ocean Charger. He calls New Orleans home. LARRY COCHRANE Brother Larry Cochrane, 65, donned the SIU colors in 1989. The engine department member’s earliest trip was on the Abby G; his most recent was aboard the USNS Altair. Brother Cochrane makes his home in O’Brien, Fla. IOANNIS HATZIGIANNIS Brother Ioannis Hatzigiannis, 66, joined the union in 1969. He was initially employed on the Cantigny. Brother Hatzigiannis was born in Greece and worked in engine department. He went to the Paul Hall Center in 1985 to enhance his skills. Brother Hatzigiannis last shipped aboard the 2nd Lt. John Paul Bobo. He resides in Greece. January 2013 15041_January_LOG_X.indd 17 JOHN KAMARA CHRISTOS TSIPLIARELES Brother John Kamara, 72, became an SIU member in 1993 in Philadelphia. His first ship was the Global Mariner; his most recent, the Endurance. Brother Kamara sailed in the deck department. He was a frequent upgrader at the Piney Point school. Brother Kamara lives in Philadelphia. Brother Christos Tsipliareles, 62, was born in Greece. He joined the Seafarers in 1968. Brother Tsipliareles’ first voyage was on the Galicia Defender. The engine department member attended classes in 2001 at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Tsipliareles most recently worked aboard the Savannah. He settled in Virginia Beach, Va. DENNY KASE Brother Denny Kase, 66, was born in Indonesia. He began sailing with the SIU in 1997. Brother Kase originally worked on the Independence. In 2001, he took advantage of educational opportunities at the union-affiliated school in Piney Point. Brother Kase sailed as an engine department member. His most recent trip was aboard the Benavidez. Brother Kase settled in Brooklyn, N.Y. PATRICK LAVIN Brother Patrick Lavin, 55, signed on with the Seafarers in 1974. The New York-born mariner first worked on the Long Lines. Brother Lavin enhanced his seafaring abilities on two occasions at the Paul Hall Center. A member of the deck department, he was last employed aboard the Horizon Hawaii. Brother Lavin calls Staten Island, N.Y., home. LLOYD LAWRENCE Brother Lloyd Lawrence, 65, donned the SIU colors in 1972 while in St. Louis. He initially sailed with Inland Tugs. Brother Lawrence is a New York City native. He attended classes often at the Piney Point school. Brother Lawrence sailed in the steward department. His most recent voyage was on the Green Cove. Brother Lawrence resides in Kapolei, Hawaii. KENNETH LAWS Brother Kenneth Laws, 71, became an SIU member in 2001 during the SIU/NMU merger. In 2006, he upgraded his skills at the maritime training center in Piney Point. Brother Laws worked aboard the Gemini and the Cape Knox during his seafaring career, among other ships. The former steward department member makes his home in Old Orchard Beach, Maine. JOSE VAZQUEZ GOMEZ Brother Jose Vazquez Gomez, 59, started sailing with the union in 1971. The engine department member was born in Bronx, N.Y. Brother Vazquez Gomez’s earliest trip was on the Western Comet. He often took advantage of educational opportunities at the Piney Point school. Brother Vazquez Gomez’s most recent ship was the Horizon Discovery. He lives in Palm Coast, Fla. INLAND LOUIS BARRA Brother Louis Barra, 55, began shipping with the SIU in 1979. The deck department member initially sailed with Moran Towing of Texas. Brother Barra was a frequent upgrader at the maritime training center in Piney Point. Prior to his retirement he worked aboard a Penn Maritime vessel. Brother Barra calls Port Saint Lucie, Fla., home. CHARLES MAKI Brother Charles Maki, 70, signed on with the union in 1979. He originally worked with STC Papa Guy Company. Brother Maki is a New York native. He sailed in the engine department. Brother Maki most recently was employed with Piney Point Transportation. He is a resident of Easton, Md. ANTHONY WILLIS Brother Anthony Willis, 65, donned the SIU colors in 2001 while in Norfolk, Va. His earliest trip was on the Edward A. Carter Jr. Brother Willis was born in Moorehead City, N.C. The deck department member most recently sailed with Crowley Towing & Transportation of Jacksonville. Brother Willis upgraded often at the Paul Hall Center. He resides in Beaufort, N.C. GREAT LAKES RANDALL JOHNSON Brother Randall Johnson, 62, joined the union in 1972 in Detroit. He worked with Luedtke Engineering Company for the duration of his career. Brother Johnson sailed in the deck department and enhanced his skills in 2001 at the Piney Point school. He makes his home in Bear Lake, Mich. This Month In SIU History Editor’s note: The following items are reprinted from previous editions of the Seafarers LOG. were declining, his spirit, his wit and his ability to captivate his audience remained strong. 1970 President Richard M. Nixon has sent his long-awaited legislative proposals for the overhaul of the U.S.-flag Merchant Marine to Capitol Hill– setting the stage for Congressional action in 1970 to restore vitality to the lagging American shipping and shipbuilding industries. With this action, Mr. Nixon became the first American president since Franklin Delano Roosevelt to come forward with a positive program for development of the nation’s maritime potential. It was during FDR’s tenure that the present merchant marine legislation was placed on the statute books. 1990 Because existing U.S. Customs Service standards do not adequately define what makes a new and different fuel oil product, foreign-flag vessels have been able to circumvent American cabotage laws that require cargo transported between U.S. ports to be carried on U.S.flag vessels built in the United States and owned by American citizens, the SIU charged this month. The inadequate Customs Service rules are allowing foreign-flag ships to pick up fuel oil in the United States, take it to another country to “blend” it and then bring it to another American port…. The SIU contends that blending, mixing or diluting oil does not meet the standard of manufacturing a new product. 1980 George Meany, who dedicated his life to bettering the lives of American workers, died January 10 at George Washington Hospital in Washington, D.C. He was 85. It was just two months ago that Meany retired as president of the 13.6 million member AFL-CIO, a post he held since the birth of the federation in 1955. When he retired, he had just recovered from one of his many bouts of ill health that had plagued him during the past year. He was confined to a wheelchair during the convention. But if his health and strength 2000 Voting ended as scheduled on January 31 in the proposed merger of the SIU and the National Maritime Union (NMU). Balloting began December 1. The next step is the election of an SIU tallying committee consisting of six full book members (two from each of the three departments). They will be elected at the membership meeting February 7 in Piney Point, Md. The committee members then will count the ballots and prepare a report to the rest of the membership. Seafarers LOG 17 12/20/2012 4:58:20 PM �Final Departures DEEP SEA JAMES CHANEY Brother James Chaney, 78, passed away May 10. He began sailing with the Marine Cooks & Stewards in 1966 while in the port of San Francisco. Brother Chaney was born in Texas. He worked in the steward department. Brother Chaney called San Francisco home. GREGORIO HERNANDEZ Pensioner Gregorio Hernandez, 77, died July 16. Brother Hernandez joined the SIU ranks in 1952. The deck department member’s first trip to sea was with A.H. Bull Steamship Company. Brother Hernandez was born in Wharton, Texas. He last shipped on the Liberty Wave. Brother Hernandez started collecting his pension in 1994 and made his home in Rosenberg, Texas. ERNEST HOITT Pensioner Ernest Hoitt, 75, passed away July 26. Brother Hoitt became a Seafarer in 1965. His first vessel was the Del Mar; his last, the Liberty Glory. Brother Hoitt, who sailed in the steward department, went on pension in 2003. The New Hampshire native resided in Reserve, La. JAMES HUDSON Brother James Hudson, 65, died June 15. He first donned the SIU colors in 2005 in Norfolk, Va. Brother Hudson’s earliest trip was on the Sea Venture. The engine department member last worked aboard the Observation Island. Brother Hudson continued to live in his native state of Virginia. EARL JACOBSON Pensioner Earl Jacobson, 99, passed away March 29. Brother Jacobson was born in Canada. He started his seafaring career in 1965 in San Francisco. Brother Jacobson was a steward department member. His final trip to sea was aboard the President Jackson. Brother Jacobson was a resident of San Mateo, Calif. GOSSIE MCKEE Pensioner Gossie McKee, 92, died May 9. Brother McKee joined the Marine Cooks & Stewards in 1969 while in San Francisco. The Florida-born mariner shipped in the steward department. Brother McKee was last employed on the Maui. He settled in San Diego. RICHARD MORRIS Pensioner Richard Morris, 82, passed away July 5. Brother Mor- 18 Seafarers LOG 15041_January_LOG_X.indd 18 ris, an Ohio native, joined the union in 1953 while in Mobile, Ala. He initially shipped on the Alcoa Planter. Brother Morris sailed in the deck department. His last ship was the Stonewall Jackson. Brother Morris went on pension in 1991 and resided in Tuscaloosa, Ala. DENNIS NEVILLE Pensioner Dennis Neville, 85, died July 25. Brother Neville was born in Newport, Ky. He began his seafaring career in 1952. He originally shipped with Bloomfield Steamship Company and primarily sailed in the engine department. Prior to his retirement in 1975, Brother Neville worked on a Michigan Tankers vessel. He was a resident of Oak Park, Ill. GLYN STEPHENS Pensioner Glyn Stephens, 76, passed away August 23. Brother Stephens became an SIU member in 1961. He initially sailed aboard the Mt. Evans as a member of the deck department. Brother Stephens was a Minnesota native. His final ship was the Independence. Brother Stephens retired in 2000 and resided in Twin Harbors, Minn. INLAND ALVIN HIRSCH Pensioner Alvin Hirsch, 94, died August 6. Brother Hirsch was a Baltimore native. The deck department member started shipping with the union in 1957. Brother Hirsch was mainly employed with McAllister Towing of Baltimore. He went on pension in 1984 and called Palm Harbor, Fla., home. THOMAS JAMIESON Brother Thomas Jamieson, 62, passed away June 1. He started his SIU career in 2009. Brother Jamieson primarily worked with Crowley Towing & Transportation of Jacksonville. He lived in West Palm Beach, Fla. WILLIAM WALES Pensioner William Wales, 69, died July 26. Brother Wales joined the union ranks in 1964. He was born in Leesville, La. Brother Wales shipped with Higman Barge Lines for the duration of his career. He became a pensioner in 1997 and made his home in Florence, Col. Editor’s note: The following brothers and sister, all former members of the National Maritime Union (NMU), have passed away. JOHN ADKINSON Pensioner John Adkinson, 85, died May 25. Brother Adkinson was born in Virgina. He went on pension in 1985. Brother Adkinson made his home in Newport News, Va. CHARLIE AGE Pensioner Charlie Age, 85, passed away June 3. Brother Age, a native of New Orleans, started collecting his retirement compensation in 1974. He lived in New Orleans. CORNELIOUS AUSTIN Pensioner Cornelious Austin, 89, died June 27. Born in Texas, Brother Austin became a pensioner in 1969. He called Philadelphia home. CONSTANTIN BACZU Pensioner Constantin Baczu, 74, passed away May 23. Brother Baczu was born in Romania. He retired in 2006 and resided in Hemphill, Texas. DAVID BENDER Pensioner David Bender, 68, died February 19. Brother Bender was a Seattle native. He began receiving his pension in 1990. Brother Bender continued to live in Washington State. OSCAR BLENMAN Pensioner Oscar Blenman, 98, passed away June 4. Brother Blenman, a native of Barbados, West Indies, went on pension in 1984. He made his home in Cherry Hill, N.J. ATHANASIOS BOTSOLIS Pensioner Athanasios Botsolis, 92, died May 3. Brother Botsolis started receiving his retirement compensation in 1978. He lived in Hoboken, N.J. SANTIAGO CRESPO Pensioner Santiago Crespo, 94, passed away April 20. Brother Crespo was born in Puerto Rico. He retired in 1977 and settled in Chico, Calif. JAMES FLAVELL Pensioner James Flavell, 85, died June 21. Brother Flavell was a Rockland, Mass., native. He became a pensioner in 1968 and called Plaquemine, La., home. WALTER FRAZA Pensioner Walter Fraza, 89, passed away May 13. Brother Fraza, a native of Bremen, Germany, began collecting his pension in 1968. He resided in Brooklyn, N.Y. PEDRO GONZALEZ Pensioner Pedro Gonzalez, 96, died May 14. Born in Mayaguez, P.R., Brother Gonzalez went on pension in 1971. He lived in Oakland Park, Fla. WILLIAM HARRISON Pensioner William Harrison, 83, passed away June 11. Brother Harrison was born in Virginia. He retired in 1994 and was a resident of Portsmouth, Va. HARRY HEPPINSTALL Pensioner Harry Heppinstall, 88, died May 28. Brother Heppinstall was an Atlantic City, N.J., native. He started receiving his retirement pay in 1969. Brother Heppinstall made his home in Philadelphia. ROY INOUYE Pensioner Roy Inouye, 83, passed away May 19. Brother Inouye, a Hawaii native, became a pensioner in 1975. He settled in Galveston, Texas. LEWIS JONES Pensioner Lewis Jones, 83, died June 9. The Massachusetts-born mariner went on pension in 1987. Brother Jones called Lexington, Mass., home. OLGA LACOVELLI Pensioner Olga Lacovelli, 89, passed away June 16. Sister Lacovelli was born in New Jersey. She began collecting compensation for her retirement in 1974. Sister Lacovelli made her home in Abingdon, Md. EDGAR LAFLEUR Pensioner Edgar LaFleur, 88, died May 17. Born in Louisiana, Brother LaFleur started receiving his pension in 1968. He lived in Villa Platte, La. JOSEPH LESSARD Pensioner Joseph Lessard, 86, passed away April 29. Brother Lessard was a native of Louisiana. He retired in 1967 and resided in Gonzales, La. RUSSELL LUTHER Pensioner Russell Luther, 81, died June 6. Brother Luther was born in Altoona, Pa. He became a pensioner in 1989. Brother Luther called Brownstown, Mich., home. GUILLERMO MARQUEZ Pensioner Guillermo Marquez, 81, passed away May 5. Brother Marquez, a native of Peru, went on pension in 1992. He settled in Bronx, N.Y. EDGAR MCKOY Pensioner Edgar McKoy, 91, died June 3. Brother Mc Koy was a native of Jamaica. He began receiving his retirement pay in 1990. Brother McKoy was a resident of Bronx, N.Y. LORENZO PACE Pensioner Lorenzo Pace, 76, passed away May 11. Brother Pace was born in Saginaw, Mich. He retired in 2002 and made his home in Houston. ANTONIO SALINAS Pensioner Antonio Salinas, 91, died June 26. He was born in McKay, Texas. Brother Salinas initially sailed on the Pan Florida. He was an engine department member. Prior to his retirement, Brother Salinas worked aboard the Pine Tree State. He was a resident of Baytown, Texas. DOMINIC SCARAFONE Pensioner Dominic Scarafone, 82, passed away April 17. Brother Scarafone was born in Boston. He became a pensioner in 1994 and called Florida home. ISAAC SMITH Pensioner Isaac Smith, 81, died May 26. Brother Smith was a native of Mobile, Ala. He started collecting his pension in 1996. Brother Smith resided in Philadelphia. SAMUEL SMITH Pensioner Samuel Smith, 89, passed away April 19. He was born in South Carolina. Brother Smith began receiving compensation for his retirement in 1971. He lived in New Mexico. LAWRENCE TOUSSAINT Pensioner Lawrence Toussaint, 88, died March 20. Brother Toussaint, a native of Trinidad, retired in 1986. He settled in Queens, N.Y. JOHN WESLEY Pensioner John Wesley, 95, passed away June 21. Brother Wesley was born in Honduras. He went on pension in 1987 and made his home in New Jersey. January 2013 12/20/2012 4:58:22 PM �Digest of Shipboard Union Meetings ADVANTAGE (Sealift), October 6 – Chairman Andrew C. Jones, Secretary Mosed D. Ahmed, Educational Director Perfecto Sambula, Deck Delegate Leonard Gregg, Engine Delegate George R. Box, Steward Delegate Isabel Miranda. Chairman thanked crew for a great trip and reminded them to clean rooms for arriving mariners. Educational director encouraged members to upgrade their skills at the union-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew expressed gratitude to steward department for excellent food. Next port: Houston. HORIZON KODIAK (Horizon Lines), October 22 – Chairman Garry D. Walker, Secretary Brian K. Burchett, Educational Director Alfonso Bambita, Deck Delegate Daniel Lovely, Engine Delegate Gregorio Abalos, Steward Delegate Strode Call. Chairman talked about the importance of supporting SPAD (Seafarers Political Activity Donation) and the upcoming elections. He suggested fellow members vote for cantidates that are historically pro-union. Secretary requested mariners departing vessel leave rooms clean and supplied with fresh linen. Educational director reminded Seafarers to go to Paul Hall Center in Piney Point for upgrading, and also to check expiration dates and renew documents on time. Treasurer reported $7,000 in ship’s fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Vote of thanks given to steward department. Recommendation was made to increase pension benefits in accordance with cost of living. Next port: Tacoma, Wash. HORIZON RELIANCE (Horizon Lines), October 7 – Chairman Kissinfor N. Taylor, Secretary Sean L. O’Malley, Educational Director Cirico L. Geonanga, Deck Delegate Leo P. Bognoson, Steward Delegate Rey C. Chang. Chairman stated payoff to take place at sea October 8. Secretary advised crew member contribute to SPAD, especially with elections being so soon. Educational director reminded fellow members about importance of getting your STCW and upgrading at Paul Hall Center in Piney Point. Treasurer stated $1,346 in ship’s fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. President’s report from the most recent Seafarers LOG was read and discussed. Next ports: Los Angeles and Honolulu. MAERSK CHAMPION (Maersk Line, Limited), October 26 – Chairman Ion Irimia, Secretary Willie Massaline, Educational Director Dennis R. Baker, Deck Delegate Michael D. Ratigan, Steward Delegate Jessica Crockett, Engine Delegate Herman Castro. Chairman reported a safe voyage and successful inspection. He thanked entire crew for working well together. Secretary recommended all mariners read the president’s report in the Seafarers LOG. He talked about the need to support our leadership, donate to SPAD and MDL. Educational director January 2013 15041_January_LOG_X.indd 19 The Seafarers LOG attempts to print as many digests of union shipboard minutes as possible. On occasion, because of space limitations, some will be omitted. Ships’ minutes first are reviewed by the union’s contract department. Those issues requiring attention or resolution are addressed by the union upon receipt of the ships’ minutes. The minutes are then forwarded to the Seafarers LOG for publication. With Seafarers aboard the MV Fisher Patrolman Nick Marrone II submitted these photos of an early November servicing of the MV Major Bernard Fisher at the Concord (Calif.) Naval Weapons Station. Operated by Sealift Inc., the vessel was taking on cargo before sailing to Korea. Among those pictured are QMED Daniel Gaffney, GUDE Jeremy Jendrusiak, AB Julius Eremias, SA Darrell Gray, Chief Cook Ziting Xu, AB David Royalty, Bosun Gill Sickles, Chief Steward Charles Washington, OS Joherky Concepcion and QMED Sergio Ayala Diaz. Patrolman Nick Marrone II, Chief Steward Charles Washington, Chief Cook Ziting Xu suggested Seafarers check out class schedule at the Paul Hall Center and enhance skills. He encouraged mariners to keep documents upto-date. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew was warned about incoming storm and advised to secure cabins. Request was made for routers to be installed for access to the Internet. Suggestions were made regarding pension benefits and requirements. Next port: Elizabeth, N.J. MAERSK COMET (Maersk Line, Limited), October 14 – Chairman Jeffery P. Libby, Secretary Mark S. Scardino, Educational Director Rene R. Rosario, Deck Delegate Victor Frazier, Steward Delegate Reynaldo Ricarte. Payoff in Long Beach, Calif., October 15 was announced. Bosun informed members that new paperwork will be posted on bulletin board. Secretary expressed gratitude for everyone help keeping ship clean. Educational director encouraged mariners to upgrade at union-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. Members were urged to keep documents current and renew early so they won’t lose the eligibility to sail. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Thanks extended to steward department for great menus. Recommendations were made to increase pension and dental benefits. Next ports: Long Beach, Calif., Oakland, Calif., and Dutch Harbor, Alaska. AB David Royalty, AB Michael Salatto MIDNIGHT SUN (TOTE), October 18 – Chairman Michael R. Hester, Secretary Christopher B. Amigable, Educational Director Michael Brown, Deck Delegate Desta H. Gebrai, Engine Delegate Manuel J. Lata, Steward Delegate Nasser Ahmed. Chairman reminded mariners to vote in both the national presidential election and the upcoming SIU election. Educational Director encouraged all members to take advantage of opportunities for advancement offered at Piney Point. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Next port: Tacoma. OVERSEAS NIKISKI (OSG Ship Management), October 13 – Chairman Kenneth A. Abrahamson, Secretary Franchesca D. Rose, Educational Director Benjamin E. Mathews, Deck Delegate Christopher Green, Engine Delegate Jared Cabasug, Steward Delegate Gregory Johnson. Chairman urged crew members to keep necessary seafaring documents current along with STCW Basic Safety Training. Clarification requested on transportation procedures while at Honolulu terminal. Secretary thanked Chief Cook Greg Johnson and SA Mai Li Cabrera for their support and effort in allowing their department to shine. Educational director advised Seafarers to take advantage of Piney Point school. He also urged everyone to keep documents current and not fall behind on dues. Treasurer noted ship’s fund money pays for satellite TV. No beefs; disputed OT reported in steward department. Inquiry was made concerning reimbursement for safety shoes. Clarification requested pertaining to early/ late penalty meals, as well as guest meals. Crew would like foam pad mattresses. Next ports: Portland, Ore., Point Wells, Wash., Anacortes, Wash. and Martinez, Calif. RACER (Maersk Line, Limited), October 5 – Chairman Thomas P. Flanagan, Secretary Glenn Williams, Educational Director Louis A. Santiago, Deck Delegate Brian Miller, Engine Delegate Jeffery Bull, Steward Delegate Alonzo Belcher. Chairman reported payoff in Newark, N.J., October 7. Crew was thanked for a safe and productive voyage. Departing crew members were asked to clean rooms and get fresh linen from steward assistant. Educational director urged all mariners to attend classes at the maritime training center in Piney Point. Treasurer stated $2,500 in ship’s fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Request was made for heater for bridge. Next ports: Charleston, S.C., Savannah, Ga., Mobile, Ala., Houston and Newark, N.J. USNS WATKINS (Ocean Ships), October 14 – Chairman John M. Walsh, Secretary Jonathan M. Gibson, Educational Director Michael L. Seyler, Engine Delegate Christopher D. Caporale, Steward Delegate Adry Libra. Chairman informed crew members that anything not covered in the agreement between OSI and SIU will refer back to the standard freight contract. Educational director encouraged members to upgrade their skills at the union-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. They were also urged to check expiration dates and renew documents on time. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Recommendation was made to increase dental benefits. Next port: Diego Garcia. YORKTOWN EXPRESS (Crowley), October 28 – Chairman David N. Martz, Secretary Kenneth Long, Educational Director Niles P. Jacobsen, Steward Delegate Chromer Jefferson. Chairman thanked everyone for keeping public areas neat and separating garbage. Educational director reminded mariners to go to Paul Hall Center in Piney Point for upgrading, and also to check expiration dates and renew documents on time. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Request was made for Internet service for crew members. QMED suggested everyone read up on what’s happening in the maritime industry. Next ports: Charleston, S.C. and Houston. Seafarers LOG 19 12/20/2012 4:58:24 PM �Application Deadline Nears For Union Plus Scholarships Prospective college students still have time to apply for the 2013 Union Plus Scholarship Program, which provides $150,000 in scholarships to union members, their spouses and dependents. SIU members, retirees and their dependents are eligible to apply because of the union’s participation in Union Plus, which is part of the AFL-CIO. This year’s application is entirely online—which will allow students to complete their applications over a period of time and save their responses. To apply, interested individuals should visit UnionPlus. org/Education. The application deadline is January 31, 2013. Eligibility Requirements In addition to demonstrating academic ability, all applicants are required to submit essays of no more than 500 words describing their career goals, detailing their relationship with the union movement and explaining why they are deserving of a union scholarship. In addition, individuals applying must be accepted into an accredited college or university, community college or recognized technical or trade school at the time the award is issued. Graduate school students are also eligible for Union Plus Scholarships. There is no requirement to have participated in any Union Plus program in order to apply. Union Plus since 1991 has distributed more than $3.2 million in scholarships to working families. In addition to the Union Plus Scholarships, the following benefits are available to help union families afford higher education: Scholarships to help union members and leaders finish their degrees with an affordable, flexible and convenient online program at the National Labor College. Discounts of 15 to 60 percent on college and graduate school test preparation courses from The Princeton Review. Includes classroom, online and private tutoring for the SAT, ACT, GMAT, LSAT, GRE and MCAT, as well as college affordability and admissions online courses. Interested individuals may visit UnionPlus.org/CollegePrep or call 1-888243-7737 for more information. Applications and eligibility requirements for these two benefits are available at UnionPlus.org/Education. Other Union Plus programs include mortgages, insurance protection and money-saving offers on flowers, car rentals and AT&T wireless service. Union members and their families may visit UnionPlus.org for more information. SHBP Announces Funds for Higher Education Program Makes $132,000 Available for Seafarers, Dependents Seafarers and dependents who are interested in furthering their education but need financial assistance should explore the scholarship opportunities being offered by the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan (SHBP). The SHPB each year offers scholarships to qualified applicants. Designed to ease the financial challenges associated with college and vocational studies, the 2013 SHBP Scholarship Program will offer eight awards totaling $132,000. Three scholarships will be designated for Seafarers while five will be targeted for spouses and dependents. One of the endowments reserved for Seafarers totals $20,000 and is intended to help defray the costs associated with attending a four-year, college-level course of study. The remaining two are in the amount of $6,000 each and are designed as two-year awards for study at a postsecondary vocational school or community college. Each of the five scholarships for spouses and dependents is for $20,000. Now is an ideal time to begin the application process. The first step is to send for the 2013 SHBP Scholarship Program booklet. The package contains eligibility information, procedures for applying for the scholarships and an application form. To obtain a copy of this handout, simply complete the form which appears on this page and return it to the address provided. As an alternative to requesting a package through the mail, they also are available at SIU halls. Once the scholarship booklet has been received, applicants should check the eligibility criteria. They should also begin collecting and assembling the remainder of the paperwork needed to submit with the full ap- plication, which must be received by April 15, 2013. Items that need to be incorporated in the final application package include transcripts and certificates of graduation. Since some institutions respond slowly in handling transcript needs, requests should be made as early as possible. Letters of recommendation – solicited from individuals who know the applicant’s character, personality and career goals – should be included as part of the application package. A high-quality photograph and a certified copy of the applicant’s birth certificate are also required and should accompany the package. A scholarship selection committee, consisting of a panel of professional educators, will examine the high school grades of all applicants as well as evaluate scores from their Scholastic Aptitude Tests (SAT) and American College Tests (ACT). Accordingly, arrangements should be made by applicants who have not done so to take these tests no later than February 2013. Doing so will virtually assure that the results reach the evaluation committee in time for review. Seafarers and dependents who previously applied for the scholarship program and were not selected are encouraged to apply again this year, provided they still meet the eligibility requirements. Don’t let the rapidly increasing costs of higher education prevent you from realizing your goals. The SHBP Scholarship Program can make the same difference for you that it has made for other Seafarers and dependents. In the last nine years alone, the SHBP has awarded more than $1 million in scholarships to 68 college-bound individuals –18 Seafarers and 50 dependents. Please send me the 2013 SHBP Scholarship Program Booklet which contains eligibility information, procedures for applying and a copy of the application form. Name........................................................................................................................................................................ Street Address......................................................................................................................................................... City, State, Zip Code.............................................................................................................................................. Telephone Number ( ) ..................................................................................................................................... This application is for: o Self Mail this completed form to: o Dependent Scholarship Program Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 Know Your Rights FINANCIAL REPORTS. The Constitution of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU makes specific provision for safeguarding the membership’s money and union finances. The constitution requires a detailed audit by certified public accountants every year, which is to be submitted to the membership by the secretary-treasurer. A yearly finance committee of rank-and-file members, elected by the membership, each year examines the finances of the union and reports fully their findings and recommendations. Members of this committee may make dissenting reports, specific recommendations and separate findings. TRUST FUNDS. All trust funds of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU are administered in accordance with the provisions of various trust fund agreements. All these agreements specify that the trustees in charge of these funds shall equally consist of union and management representatives and their alternates. All expenditures and disbursements of trust funds are made only upon approval by a majority of the trustees. All trust fund financial records are available at the headquarters of the various trust funds. SHIPPING RIGHTS. A member’s shipping rights and seniority are protected exclusively by contracts between the union and the employers. Members should get to know their shipping rights. Copies of these contracts are posted and available in all union halls. If members believe there have been violations of their shipping or seniority rights as contained in the contracts between the union and the employers, they should notify the Seafarers Appeals Board by certified mail, return receipt 20 Seafarers LOG 15041_January_LOG_X.indd 20 requested. The proper address for this is: Augustin Tellez, Chairman Seafarers Appeals Board 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 Full copies of contracts as referred to are available to members at all times, either by writing directly to the union or to the Seafarers Appeals Board. CONTRACTS. Copies of all SIU contracts are available in all SIU halls. These contracts specify the wages and conditions under which an SIU member works and lives aboard a ship or boat. Members should know their contract rights, as well as their obligations, such as filing for overtime (OT) on the proper sheets and in the proper manner. If, at any time, a member believes that an SIU patrolman or other union official fails to protect their contractual rights properly, he or she should contact the nearest SIU port agent. EDITORIAL POLICY — THE SEAFARERS LOG. The Seafarers LOG traditionally has refrained from publishing any article serving the political purposes of any individual in the union, officer or member. It also has refrained from publishing articles deemed harmful to the union or its collective membership. This established policy has been reaffirmed by membership action at the September 1960 meetings in all constitutional ports. The responsibility for Seafarers LOG policy is vested in an editorial board which consists of the executive board of the union. The executive board may delegate, from among its ranks, one individual to carry out this responsibility. PAYMENT OF MONIES. No monies are to be paid to anyone in any official capacity in the SIU unless an official union receipt is given for same. Under no circumstances should any member pay any money for any reason unless he is given such receipt. In the event anyone attempts to require any such payment be made without supplying a receipt, or if a member is required to make a payment and is given an official receipt, but feels that he or she should not have been required to make such payment, this should immediately be reported to union headquarters. CONSTITUTIONAL RIGHTS AND OBLIGATIONS. Copies of the SIU Constitution are available in all union halls. All members should obtain copies of this constitution so as to familiarize themselves with its contents. Any time a member feels any other member or officer is attempting to deprive him or her of any constitutional right or obligation by any methods, such as dealing with charges, trials, etc., as well as all other details, the member so affected should immediately notify headquarters. EQUAL RIGHTS. All members are guaranteed equal rights in employment and as members of the SIU. These rights are clearly set forth in the SIU Constitution and in the contracts which the union has negotiated with the employers. Consequently, no member may be discriminated against because of race, creed, color, sex, national or geographic origin. If any member feels that he or she is denied the equal rights to which he or she is entitled, the member should notify union headquarters. SEAFARERS POLITICAL ACTIVITY DONATION (SPAD). SPAD is a separate segregated fund. Its proceeds are used to further its objects and purposes including, but not limited to, furthering the political, social and economic interests of maritime workers, the preservation and furthering of the American merchant marine with improved employment opportunities for seamen and boatmen and the advancement of trade union concepts. In connection with such objects, SPAD supports and contributes to political candidates for elective office. All contributions are voluntary. No contribution may be solicited or received because of force, job discrimination, financial reprisal, or threat of such conduct, or as a condition of membership in the union or of employment. If a contribution is made by reason of the above improper conduct, the member should notify the Seafarers International Union or SPAD by certified mail within 30 days of the contribution for investigation and appropriate action and refund, if involuntary. A member should support SPAD to protect and further his or her economic, political and social interests, and American trade union concepts. NOTIFYING THE UNION — If at any time a member feels that any of the above rights have been violated, or that he or she has been denied the constitutional right of access to union records or information, the member should immediately notify SIU President Michael Sacco at headquarters by certified mail, return receipt requested. The address is: Michael Sacco, President Seafarers International Union 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746. January 2013 12/20/2012 4:58:25 PM �Notice Dispatchers’ Report for Deep Sea SHBP Sends New Documents To All Plan Participants The Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan (SHBP) recently sent all Plan participants a new document called “Summary of Benefits and Coverage” (SBC), as well as a document called “Glossary of Health Coverage and Medical Terms.” Under the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (ACA), health plans are required to provide these documents to all participants. The SBC is a brief summary of the benefits that the Plan provides and how the Plan pays for those benefits. It includes information about co-payments and deductibles both in and out of network, and describes the limits that apply to certain benefits. There are five versions of the SBC, one for each benefit level. The five booklets are: Core-Plus, Core, Plan S, Pensioners who are not eligible for Medicare, and MedicareEligible Pensioners. SIU members and retirees should have received the booklet or booklets that describe the benefits they were eligible for during the past year. The glossary defines common terms that are used by health plans and health insurance companies. This glossary was issued by the federal government, and is meant to help people understand their coverage. If you did not receive an SBC or a glossary, or would like to request a different SBC from the one you have received, please contact the Plan at 1-800- 252-4674 or by mail at 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. You may also view the SBCs and glossary online at www.seafarers.org. Start with the Member Benefits tab, then follow it to the Seafarers Benefit Plans drop-down tab, and finally to the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan page. The direct web address is www.seafarers. org/memberbenefits/benefitplans/shbp.asp Correction The December LOG included a listing of all the membership meeting dates for 2013. In the chart on page 8, the date for the September meeting in Piney Point should have been listed as Tuesday, September 3. February & March 2013 Membership Meetings Piney Point........................Monday: February 4, March 4 Algonac...............................Friday: February 8, March 8 Baltimore........................Thursday: February 7, March 7 Guam...........................Thursday: February 21, March 21 Honolulu...........................Friday: February 15, March 15 Houston..........................Monday: February 11, March 11 Jacksonville....................Thursday: February 7, March 7 Joliet................................Thursday: February 14, March 14 Mobile..............................Wednesday: February 13, March 13 New Orleans.........................Tuesday: February 12, March 12 New York................................Tuesday: February 5, March 5 Norfolk..........................Thursday: February 7, March 7 Oakland...............................Thursday: February 14, March 14 Philadelphia.......................Wednesday: February 6, March 6 Port Everglades.................Thursday: February 14, March 14 San Juan.............................Thursday: February 7, March 7 St. Louis................................Friday: February 15, March 15 Tacoma....................................Friday: February 22, March 22 Wilmington.............*Tuesday: February 19, Monday: March 18 * Wilmington change created by Presidents Day holiday. Each port’s meeting starts at 10:30 a.m. Attention Seafarers: Contribute To The Seafarers Political Activities Donation SPAD January 2013 15041_January_LOG_X.indd 21 November 16, 2012 - December 15, 2012 Port Total Registered All Groups A B C Total Shipped All Groups A B Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS 17 2 9 18 3 9 55 33 3 7 20 62 20 24 4 3 8 52 4 33 386 9 4 2 11 4 6 18 31 5 3 5 11 18 10 3 5 5 17 3 21 191 4 0 1 2 0 2 3 2 1 2 1 3 2 3 2 0 1 5 1 1 36 Deck Department 9 6 0 2 11 3 6 9 2 4 8 1 49 15 19 34 3 0 8 4 10 1 39 12 18 13 17 6 7 1 1 1 7 8 37 19 3 1 18 9 272 149 0 0 2 2 0 0 2 2 1 2 0 3 3 1 2 0 1 0 2 1 24 2 2 5 6 0 3 32 20 0 2 6 21 12 5 3 0 6 28 3 18 174 16 3 6 27 4 20 84 63 2 14 25 87 30 38 4 3 16 81 7 73 603 13 3 9 19 8 10 22 30 11 3 7 21 36 14 3 9 11 26 2 41 298 3 1 1 4 2 2 4 3 1 2 4 8 5 4 0 0 2 9 3 1 59 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS 4 0 2 11 1 10 10 23 1 5 5 21 5 6 5 2 6 15 5 11 148 3 5 7 9 0 2 8 19 7 2 0 12 14 10 3 1 2 9 3 10 126 2 0 1 0 0 1 1 1 0 2 0 5 4 1 0 1 0 1 0 2 22 Engine Department 1 3 0 0 2 5 6 7 1 0 7 3 12 6 13 21 1 3 6 4 3 1 17 13 5 9 6 3 2 3 1 3 1 3 10 8 1 0 13 4 108 99 1 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 1 1 0 2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 7 1 0 2 6 0 4 7 10 0 4 0 9 3 1 0 0 2 9 0 9 67 4 0 2 15 2 17 24 40 5 10 12 26 18 21 5 5 8 30 4 24 272 6 6 9 11 0 6 18 34 5 3 4 11 30 13 3 0 13 16 4 28 220 0 1 2 2 1 1 2 6 0 1 0 7 6 2 0 1 1 2 1 6 42 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS 1 0 4 8 3 9 16 14 2 7 6 18 12 21 4 3 2 23 3 28 184 0 0 4 1 1 3 4 6 1 0 1 6 10 2 0 3 3 1 2 2 50 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 1 0 0 1 0 0 1 0 1 0 2 7 Steward Department 1 0 0 0 4 1 4 3 0 0 7 3 16 4 12 4 2 3 1 0 5 1 10 7 9 8 13 2 3 0 2 2 4 0 16 4 3 0 15 1 127 43 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 2 1 0 0 1 1 1 1 1 0 0 9 0 0 4 5 0 5 8 9 0 2 4 5 7 5 0 3 2 11 1 13 84 3 0 5 16 4 23 30 30 1 7 12 27 21 32 4 5 4 32 2 49 307 2 2 5 4 2 2 9 9 1 4 1 12 14 3 0 2 4 5 4 4 89 2 1 0 1 0 0 1 1 0 2 2 0 2 6 0 0 1 0 0 3 22 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS 0 0 0 0 0 3 2 2 0 1 1 9 1 4 0 0 1 6 0 4 34 8 1 3 5 5 9 10 10 0 4 3 27 10 16 2 0 1 5 1 19 139 9 1 1 6 0 10 0 9 2 0 3 3 19 7 4 0 1 5 0 3 83 Entry Department 1 5 0 0 0 3 0 3 0 2 2 3 3 12 2 9 0 0 0 0 0 2 3 19 0 10 2 8 0 2 0 0 0 0 2 8 0 2 2 18 17 106 10 0 1 0 0 1 4 4 0 0 1 2 7 0 1 0 1 1 0 4 37 0 0 1 1 0 1 2 3 0 0 1 2 2 4 0 1 1 1 1 11 32 2 0 0 1 0 6 5 2 0 1 3 18 1 7 0 0 3 8 0 4 61 12 4 2 11 3 10 24 23 0 5 4 40 32 29 0 1 0 17 1 40 258 14 2 2 7 0 20 6 16 2 1 5 20 56 15 3 3 1 9 0 49 231 GRAND TOTAL: 752 506 148 77 357 1,243 865 354 524 397 C Trip Reliefs Registered on Beach All Groups A B C Seafarers LOG 21 12/20/2012 4:58:26 PM �Paul Hall Center Classes Unlicensed Apprentice Water Survival Class #766 - Twenty-one individuals (including Phase 1 unlicensed apprentices and upgraders) completed this course Nov. 23. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Keith Anavitate, Kevin Arroyo, Dalton Artzner, Xyla Bautista, Fritz Bernier, Lyncon Brathwaite, James Brooks, Steven Cogliano, Cesar Dela Cruz, Baudilio Cruz-Nieves, William Davis, Michael Donley Jr., Reynard Gibbs, Ivan Hassan, Brennon Hough, Kiara Jackson, Whalen Martin, Alex Nogueras-Cuevas, Stephen Philips, Michal Sinkiewicz and Sherre Wilson. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Basic and Advanced Firefighting – The following individuals (above, in alphabetical order) finished this course Nov. 2: Maximo Aguiran, Nicholas Gattuso, Alfredo Genio Jr., Hussain Mohamed Hafid, Sean Hughes, Matthew Jenness, James Kuck, Anthony Moore Jr., Costica Oprisoru and Paul Terrell III. Mark Cates, their instructor, is at the far right. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Able Seaman – The following upgraders (above, in alphabetical order) finished this class Nov. 9: Ali Ali, Monasser Ali, Mutea Alnuzely, Matthew Bailey, Richard Brockway, Richard Cristiani, James Dillon, Steven Gagnon, Orakwue Ikegwu, Kaleb McGill, Clint Omisong, Adolph Romero, Nicholas Santillo, Brandon Simken, John Sorsdal, Geoffrey Stevens, Julian Swimpson, Richard Swirtz and Robert Tomo. Their instructor, Tom Truitt, is standing at center, in the extreme back row. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Welding – Nine upgraders completed the enhancement of their skills in this course Nov. 9. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Fontanos Ellison, Joseph Gref, Victorino Labrilla Jr., Andre MacCray, Keith Marion, Enrique Medri, Reinaldo Roman, Mark Santoli and Sutthipong Ticer. Class Instructor Buzzy Andrews is standing at the far right. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Electronic Chart Display Information System – Three upgraders finished their requirements in this course Nov. 30. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Neal Doucet Sr., Tony Graves and Roger Stewart. Class Instructor Brad Wheeler is at the far left. FOWT – Fourteen students satisfied their requirements in this course Nov. 2. Those graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Jason Allen, Lakisha Barnes, Dennis Blake, Autumn Cole, David Freitas, Bobbie Gibbs, Dustin Hutchins, Nicholas Katsamples, Justin Machuga, Gary Newbegin, Kyle Pardun, Steven Patton, Jerry Semper Jr., Thomas Roderick and Robert Noble. Tim Achorn, their instructor, is at the far right. BST – The following Seafarers (photo at right, in alphabetical order) completed this course Nov. 9: Glenn Agustin, Suree Farrell, Dominic Gallucci, Whalen Martin, Edward O’Reilly, Winston Restauro, James Rider, Santiago Ruiz, Terrance Sasnett and Furman Watson. Class Instructor Stan Beck is at the far right. 22 Seafarers LOG 15041_January_LOG_X.indd 22 January 2013 12/20/2012 4:58:33 PM �Paul Hall Center Classes Government Vessels – Twenty upgraders successfully completed their requirements in this course Nov. 30. Graduating (photo at left, in alphabetical order) were: Joel Bell Jr., Leo Bierneza, Michael Blair, Joel Boyd, Wilfredo Espinosa, Dwight Hunt, Carlos Marcial, Terrell McMillian, Douglas Neubauer, Rolando Pangan, Carlos Parrilla, Rodney Payne, James Rider, Raymond Roldan, Edwin Sebastian, Whitney Sheridan, Delbra Singleton-Leslie, Benjamin, Micah Stackhouse and Brenda White. Class Instructor Mark Cates is at the far right. Important Notice to Students Students who have registered for classes at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, but later discover - for whatever reason that they can’t attend, should inform the admissions department immediately so arrangements can be made to have other students take their places. Medical Care Provider – Twelve Seafarers completed the enhancement of their skills in this course Nov. 9. Those graduating (right, in alphabetical order) were: John Browning, Richard Crutchfield, Criseldo Espinosa, Nicholas Gattuso, Hussain Hafid, Christopher Hickey, Sean Hughes, Costica Oprisoru, Frank Pivik, Jerome Slade, Jarvis Stanley and Djuan Wright. Wayne Johnson Jr., and Mike Roberts, the class instructors, are at the far left and far right respectively. Medical Care Provider – Four upgraders finished this course Nov. 2. Completing their requirements and graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Antoine Best, Do Luong, David Quade and Kerian Reyes. Wayne Johnson Jr., their instructor, is at the far left. Steward Department Courses – Six Seafarers recently graduated from steward department upgrading courses. Those graduating and the classes they completed (above, in no particular order) were: Edgar Castillo, galley ops; Benjamin Sivells, galley ops; James Martin Jr., chief cook; Shanita Daniel, chief cook; Johnny Sawyer, chief cook; and Banacek Figuera, certified chief cook. Steward Department Courses – Six upgraders recently completed steward department upgrading courses. Those graduating and the classes they completed (above, in no particular order) were: Galley Operations – Four upgraders recently graduated Delbra Singleton, certified chief steward; Elena from this course. Completing their requirements (above, Lee, certified chief steward; Douglas Neubauer, in no particular order) were: Darryl Jackson, Wilma Marti- chief steward; Toni Johnson, advanced galley ops; Marlon Battad, chief steward; and James Watson, nez, Walter Harris and Luis Santiago chief steward. January 2013 15041_January_LOG_X.indd 23 BST (Hawaii) – Eighteen individuals graduated from this course at the Seafarers Training Facility in Barbers Point Hawaii Dec. 1. Completing their requirements (above, in no particular order) were: Matthew Boyd, Heather Frederiksen, Brandon Fry, Angel Gotay, Tiara Ward, Jacob Moxness, John Graff, William Romero, Nathaniel Nichols, Jacqueline Grubbs, Laura Hurst, Arrahman Kjeldson, Naomi Lewis, Wendy Lopez, Colleen Moore, Nicole Parsons, Lennon Roa and Erick Roberson. Seafarers LOG 23 12/20/2012 4:58:41 PM �Volume 75, Number 1 January 2013 Paul Hall Center Course Guide Pages 9-16 New Contracts, SIU Fleet Additions Highlight 2012 The SIU made substantial gains in 2012, including securing dozens of new contracts and crewing up new tonnage throughout the fleet. The year’s headlines also included major progress on the waterfront restoration project at the union-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education; several rescues at sea; ongoing political activities; a successful convention for the Seafarers International Union of North America, and more. The following is a look back at some of the key stories of 2012. Contracts Considering the slowly recovering but still-ailing economy, the new collective bargaining agreements approved by Seafarers throughout 2012 called to mind an old saying: If it’s true, it isn’t bragging. Defying nationwide trends in other industries and organizations, the SIU secured one agreement after another that featured wage increases while maintaining benefits. Practically without exception, those contracts were ratified by overwhelming majorities. Garnering well-deserved attention, the new standard freightship and tanker contracts were ratified around midyear. Those five-year pacts featured annual wage hikes while maintaining medical and pension benefits and securing other gains. Many other SIU contracts were patterned after the standard agreements. Among others, new, multi-year agreements were approved at Great Lakes Dredge and Dock, Erie Sand and Gravel, Material Services Corporation, Harley Marine, Crowley Towing and Transportation, Crowley at Petty’s Island, and Overseas Shipholding Group (inland). That’s just a representative sample, however; in total, more than 80 new collective bargaining agreements were wrapped up in 2012. New Tonnage A proper review of these gains must begin in the last days of 2011, when the heavy-lift ship Maersk Illinois reflagged under the Stars and Stripes. Months later, sister ship Maersk Texas joined the SIU-crewed fleet. Also reflagging U.S. were the cargo ships MV Carat, Ocean Giant and BBC Seattle. In the Great Lakes Division, members welcomed the new ATB Ken Boothe Sr. and the tug Handy-Three. SIU Government Services Division members saw the additions of the high-tech NOAA vessel Ferdinand Hassler, the T-AKE ship USNS Cesar Chavez and the flagship of the joint high-speed vessel (JHSV) fleet, the USNS Spearhead. Seafarers also started sailing aboard the new Jones Act tanker American Phoenix, the pumping station USNS Wheeler (and its support vessel). Crowley continued its fleet expansion with the announced purchase of the tankers Pennsylvania and Florida and the christenings of the ATB Legend and the ocean-class tugboats Ocean Wave and Ocean Wind. And just last month, TOTE announced plans to build at least two, and maybe as many as five LNG-powered containerships, while International Shipholding Corporation acquired several Jones Act vessels that signal new jobs for SIU members. Rescues, Paul Hall Center At times, it may have seemed as if SIU-crewed ships were competing to see who could pull off the most rescues. The Horizon Reliance and the Green Cove each handled two rescues at sea, saving lives along the way. Seafarers aboard the USS Ponce and on a NY Waterway ferry also upheld the finest traditions of the Brotherhood of the Sea by performing other rescues. Most of the SIU members aboard the aforementioned ships have completed safety training at the Paul Hall Center, located in Piney Point, Md. The school also enjoyed its share of noteworthy developments, led by the near-completion of the multi-million-dollar waterfront restoration project. Ground also was broken on campus for a new claims department building. The school offered company-specific training for numerous Seafarers-contracted businesses including Crowley, Alaska Tanker Company, Maersk Line, Limited and others, while also running its regular assortment of classes for upgraders and apprentices. School and union leaders continued working with the Coast Guard to modify applicable courses so they’ll comply with the Manila Amendments to the STCW Convention. The U.S. Department of Labor recognized the school’s entry-training program as one of the nation’s best. The center added high-tech training tools including a new navigation software tool. Other Gains and a Setback The SIU, other maritime unions and the Military Sealift Command culminated years of work on revisions to the Civilian Marine Personnel Instruction 610, covering hours of work and premium pay. Union representatives travelled across the globe to help introduce the updated agreement, which is considered a victory for both sides and a credit to maritime labor. The SIUNA conducted its quinquennial convention in Piney Point. Delegates unanimously re-elected President Michael Sacco and other officials who helped map out promaritime, pro-worker strategies. The Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan awarded eight scholarships – three to Seafarers, five to SIU dependents – worth a total of $132,000. Even as the union continued domestic and international anti-piracy efforts, SIU-crewed ships including the Ocean Atlas, USNS Rappahannock and Maersk Texas successfully turned back attempted pirate attacks. The Ocean Atlas also was in the news for an unwarranted detention in Venezuela – a situation brought to a safe and successful conclusion thanks to cooperative efforts by the SIU, the American Maritime Officers and many others. The International Labor Organization ratified the Maritime Labor Convention, 2006 – a move long-advocated by the SIU. Both the union and the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan moved ahead with expansion of the network of SHBPcontracted clinics. SIU members stepped up right away to help bring relief to victims of Hurricane Sandy in the northeast. Union support drove election victories for the Obama-Biden ticket and for many more pro-worker candidates in the United States Congress as well as in state and local elections. Organized labor also succeeded in defeating a number of state-level anti-worker ballot initiatives. Collectively, the industry was blindsided by lastminute, secretive cuts to cargo preference that threaten Throughout the year, new tonnage entered the SIU-crewed fleet, including the Maersk Illinois. 15041_January_LOG_X2.indd 24 Delegates unanimously re-elected Michael Sacco as president of the SIUNA. to wipe out American maritime jobs. Efforts to reverse those cuts are ongoing. So-called right-to-work laws also advanced in Indiana and Michigan, signaling bad news for all workers. Contrary to what their proponents say, right-to-work laws consistently lead to lower wages, fewer benefits, and less-safe workplaces. Organized labor will continue its fight to turn back these harmful laws. Crossed the Bar Inevitably, the union bid farewell to too many friends and associates in 2012. Those crossing the final bar included (chronologically) former SIU and AMO official Gordon Spencer; Rene Lioeanjie, the last president of the National Maritime Union and a retired SIU vice president; Mark Ayers, president of the AFL-CIO Building and Construction Trades Department; shipping industry giant Maersk McKinney-Moller; longtime labor relations advocate Tom Murphy of Crowley; Chief Bosun Tommy Soresi, decades-long confidant of SIU officials; George Ripoll, retired SIU official; and Byron Kelley, retired SIU vice president. SIU members (including those pictured on the Ocean Atlas, above) overwhelmingly ratified the new standard freightship and tanker agreements. Seafarers actively supported fellow trade unionists and stood up for workers’ rights throughout the year, including during this rally in Philadelphia. 12/21/2012 10:01:18 AM � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Seafarers Log Issues 2010-2019 Description An account of the resource Volumes LXXII-LXXXI of the Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Seafarers Log Digital Copies Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 2010-2019 Document A resource containing textual data. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre text. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource January 2013 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES TOTE ORDERS LNG-POWERED CONTAINERSHIPS VESSELS SLATED FOR CONSTRUCTION AT UNION YARD IN SAN DIEGO MEMBERS RATIFY CONTRACT AT PETTY’S ISLAND SEAFARERS ASSIST VICTIMS OF HURRICANE SANDY IN NY, NJ SIU GAINS JOBS FOLLOWING ACQUISITION INTERNATIONAL SHIPHOLDING CORP’S PURCHASE NETS NEW TONNAGE MEMBERS AT CROWLEY-PETTY’S ISLAND UNANIMOUSLY APPROVE 3-YEAR PACT SIU ELECTION RESULTS SOON WILL BE ANNOUNCED SEVERAL UNION-CONTRACTED COMPANIES CAPTURE CSA ENVIRONMENTAL AWARDS OPERATIONS REMAIN ‘BUSINESS AS USUAL’ AT SIU-CONTRACTED OSG OCEAN ATLAS REPELS PIRACY ATTACKS USNS SPEARHEAD, FIRST JHSC, DELIVERED UNION CREWS RESCUE NINE OAKLAND’S TRADITIONAL EVENT: ‘FANTASTIC!’ NEW CONTRACTS, SIU FLEET ADDITIONS HIGHLIGHT 2012 Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Seafarers Log Digital Copies Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 01/01/2013 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Newsprint Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context Vol. 75, No. 1 2013 Periodicals Seafarers Log http://www.seafarerslog.org/archives/files/original/76e9d5a47adf48159531e249ca29a1c6.pdf 278394436eb718277d907e51827cd6e5 PDF Text Text Volume 75, Number 2 February 2013 SIU Gains Jobs On New Military Support Vessels SIU-contracted Ocean Ships, Inc. has won the operating contract for three new mobile landing platform (MLP) vessels, including the USNS Montford Point (background photo, pictured at the General Dynamics NASSCO shipyard in San Diego). The ships are expected to sail in the Navy’s prepositioning fleet. Including options, the Ocean Ships contract is for five years. Page 3. (Photo courtesy NASSCO) Union Members Continue Long Tradition of Giving Committee Announces Election Results SIU members and officials showed their generosity during the winter holidays as they donated money and toys to brighten the season for American military families. The yearly Santa’s Castle project in Tacoma, Wash., once again was a highlight, as were donations made in Florida. In the photo below, AB Tar Ahmed and GUDEs Raul Ventanilla and Reynaldo Mambulao carry toys to delivery vehicles at the Tacoma hall. Page 6. In early January, a committee of rank-and-file Seafarers issued its report on the voting for officers of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District, as well as results of balloting on two constitutional amendments. Committee members are shown at work in the photo above, at the union’s headquarters building. Their report will be submitted for approval by the membership at union meetings in March. Page 3. Key Maritime Program Extended Page 2 15042_February_LOG_X.indd 1 Members Recognized for Sandy Relief Page 4 Tax Tips Pages 12-14 1/25/2013 4:54:42 PM �President’s Report Stage Set for Another Successful Year Whether it’s because of cutting-edge shipboard technology, new types of vessels, training requirements or other new regulations, our industry constantly changes. And the SIU throughout our 75-year history has remained focused on not only keeping up with those changes, but staying a step ahead. The same goes for our affiliated school in Piney Point, Md., which opened in 1967. The Paul Hall Center and its Lundeberg School of Seamanship don’t just keep up with the times – the school often pioneers progress. Yet, there are some keys to our success that have remained constant throughout these many years. One of them, as Seafarers know, is political action. Sometimes we’re pushing for new programs, other times we’re protecting or building upon what’s in place. Two great examples of our Michael Sacco political activities happened near the end of 2012, as President Obama signed separate bills that extended the U.S. Maritime Security Program and strengthened the Jones Act. There’s no particular need for our rank-and-file members to understand the nuts and bolts of the MSP legislation, but you absolutely should know that the program means jobs for the membership. It strengthens U.S. national and economic security, and our military leaders have said year after year that it’s truly a bargain. We support it for all the right reasons, but first and foremost, we support the MSP because it helps keep SIU members on the job. We worked very hard with other maritime unions and allies throughout the industry to help secure the latest MSP extension, and it’s a big win for Seafarers and for America. Similarly, we backed language in the Coast Guard bill that helps ensure every reasonable opportunity is given to U.S.-flag vessel operators before Jones Act waivers are issued. And once again, this is important to your job security as well as to America’s economic and national security. That’s why we pushed for it. In this same vein, I thank all of our members who support SPAD, the union’s voluntary political action fund. I know that our other officials and I talk a lot about SPAD, but that’s because it’s nothing short of critical to our operations and to rank-and-file jobs. Politics affects practically every aspect of our livelihoods, and SPAD helps make sure your voices are heard by those who write the laws and regulations and requirements that govern maritime. Without it, we couldn’t even get in the door to promote things like the MSP, the Jones Act, cargo preference and other initiatives. So, thank you for recognizing SPAD’s importance and for donating. And if you’re not participating, please think about it. Don’t just count on your fellow members to carry the load. Nearly a month into the New Year, I remain very optimistic about 2013 and I believe it’ll be a year of growth for us. When you combine our strong political outreach, our first-rate training at Piney Point and in Hawaii, our excellent working relationships with SIU-contracted companies and with the agencies overseeing maritime, plus the outstanding work of rank-and-file Seafarers, we’ve got all the pieces in place to continue succeeding. Now we’ve just got to keep our sleeves rolled up and our course true and steady, and that’s exactly what we’re doing. Remembering a Leader and Friend Be sure to take a look at our tribute to the late Senator Daniel Inouye in this month’s LOG. Senator Inouye was a genuine American hero, and he was a great, great friend who kept his honorary SIU book close to his heart. Our union and our industry have lost a giant supporter who went to bat for us on every single issue and who never looked back. I am grateful to have known Senator Inouye and will always respect his memory while appreciating his unfailing support. As one writer put it, he was the person we all hope to be. Volume 75, Number 2 February 2013 The SIU online: www.seafarers.org The Seafarers LOG (ISSN 1086-4636) is published monthly by the Seafarers International Union; Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU, AFL-CIO; 5201 Auth Way; Camp Springs, MD 20746. Telephone (301) 899-0675. Periodicals postage paid at Southern Maryland 20790-9998. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to the Seafarers LOG, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. Communications Director, Jordan Biscardo; Managing Editor/Production, Jim Guthrie; Assistant Editor, Brian Ahern; Photographer, Harry Gieske; Administrative Support, Misty Dobry. Copyright © 2013 Seafarers International Union, AGLIWD. All Rights Reserved. The Seafarers International Union engaged an environmentally friendly printer for the production of this newspaper. 2 Seafarers LOG 15042_February_LOG.indd 2 MSP Extension a Huge Victory For Maritime, National Security President Barack Obama’s signature on the National Defense Authorization Act of 2013 helped secure both the jobs of American mariners and the safety of the American people. A key provision in the bill ensured the Maritime Security Program (MSP) – an SIU-supported program of vital importance to the maritime industry and national defense – would be extended through 2025. Since 1996, the Department of Defense (DOD) has had access to 60 (originally 47 but increased to 60 in 2003) militarily useful commercial ships to carry goods and materiel to service members around the globe. In return, DOD provides an annual stipend to help off-set operating costs. The MSP provision, included in the Maritime Administration reauthorization section of the law, was aggressively backed by the SIU and the rest of maritime labor along with union-contracted companies. Currently, Seafarers-contracted companies operate the vast majority of vessels enrolled in the MSP, meaning the program’s extension results in jobs for Seafarers nationwide. Despite initial worries that the bill would be held up by non-maritime-industry-related concerns, those issues were resolved between Congress and the White House, and the bill was signed just one day before the end of the 112th Congress. The new law extends contracts for existing operators, and also includes a gradual increase in the annual stipend, something that will ensure the program remains economically attractive for U.S.-flag operators in the future. Created in 1996, the MSP has always enjoyed bipartisan support and consistent praise from American military leaders. President George H.W. Bush proposed the MSP in 1992, President Bill Clinton signed it into law four years later and President George W. Bush signed a 10-year extension in 2003 that increased the number of vessels to 60. It has annually been included on the Office of Management and Budget’s list of most efficient and best-run government programs. The MSP’s popularity since its creation is due to several factors. Not only does the program protect the homeland, but it also saves the country a significant amount of money. According to the United States Transportation Command (TRANSCOM), the MSP provides a sealift capability that would cost the government approximately $13 billion to reproduce, plus an additional $52 billion to replicate the global intermodal system made available to the U.S. Department of Defense. Thanks to the MSP, the government gets all of that for a fraction of the cost – currently $186 million per year. The program also helps maintain a pool of welltrained, loyal, U.S. citizen mariners whose reliability in supporting our armed forces has been proven time after time, including throughout Operations Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom (and, for that matter, throughout the nation’s history). In pushing for the MSP extension last year, a bipartisan group of 17 U.S. senators wrote to Senate Subcommittee on Transportation, Housing and Urban Development Chairwoman Patty Murray (D-Wash.) and ranking member Susan Collins (R-Maine) about the MSP’s vital importance to the country. The MSP, they said, protects the country’s homeland, economic and job security. “Without having the MSP and its maritime security fleet to rely on, the options available to the Department of Defense and to our country to meet America’s commercial sealift capability requirements are totally unacceptable,” the senators wrote. More likely, the DOD would be forced to charter foreign-flagged vessels manned by foreign nationals – “interests who may not share America’s goals, objectives and values.... These foreign-flag shipping services [would] have to be paid for by the United States and it means our country [would] be encouraging the outsourcing of American maritime jobs as we spend taxpayer dollars on foreign-flag ships and their foreign crews.” TRANSCOM Commander, Gen. William Fraser, echoed those sentiments while speaking to the maritime industry last summer. The military, he said, relies heavily on the hard-working people who make up the U.S. Merchant Marine, including mariners who sail aboard MSP ships. The DOD “could not do our job without the superb relationships that we have with our commercial industry and our U.S. mariners,” he said. “You are absolutely essential to the greatest military in our history.” Speaking at the 2012 SIUNA Convention in September, Rear Adm. Mark Buzby, commander of the U.S. Military Sealift Command, said it’s a partnership of vital importance to not only the United States, but the world. “Our combined efforts work toward maintaining a strong U.S. maritime industry that’s critical to our continued leadership in a world that depends on the seas and the maritime trade,” he said. “None of it will happen without U.S. Mariners manning the lines.” President Signs Law that Protects Jones Act, Improves TWIC Process American mariners had reason to celebrate in December when President Barack Obama signed the Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation Act of 2012. The SIU-supported law, which funds the Coast Guard through 2014, also included key provisions designed to strengthen the Jones Act and make the process of obtaining and renewing Transportation Worker Identification Credentials (TWIC) less onerous. Thanks to the new law, the jobs of American mariners will be better-protected during times of national crisis, and trips to TWIC processing offices will be reduced. The law’s Jones Act provisions create greater transparency with the issuance of Jones Act waivers. Under the new law, the Maritime Administration must identify all actions taken to ensure U.S.-flag ships are called upon to meet national defense requirements and publish that information on the Department of Transportation’s website. The Maritime Administration is also required to report to Congress when it wants to request a waiver. A cornerstone of the maritime industry for more than 90 years, the Jones Act stipulates that shipments between American ports must be conducted by American mariners on American-flagged ships that also are U.S.-built and U.S.-owned. Waivers can only be issued during times of crisis when no qualified American vessels are available. The waiver transparency provisions included in the new law, which would protect the jobs of American mariners, were created in response to bipartisan concerns over the controversial issuance of Jones Act waivers in recent years. SIU Political and Legislative Director Brian Schoeneman said the union pushed to have those transparency provisions in the final bill. “We’ve had too many situations where the first response to a crisis was to waive the Jones Act,” he said. “This will make it harder for an administration to waive the Jones Act without going through Congress. It adds an extra layer of security so we don’t have to worry about middle-of-the-night waivers.” The law’s approach to Jones Act waivers was met with praise from both sides of the aisle. U.S. Rep. Elijah Cummings (D-Md.) and U.S. Rep. Jeff Landry (R-La.), who both criticized the administration in the past for issuing Jones Act waivers for vessels transporting oil from the nation’s Strate- gic Petroleum Reserve, applauded the new law. “[This] will bring much-needed transparency to the process by which the Jones Act waivers are issued, including requiring the Maritime Administration to formally identify all of the actions that could be taken to enable U.S.-flagged vessels to carry the cargo for which a Jones Act waiver is sought,” Cummings said. “The Jones Act should be waived only when no U.S. vessels are capable of carrying cargo between two U.S. ports.” Landry agreed, adding the bipartisan support garnered by the bill’s Jones Act provisions was an example of both parties working together for a common purpose, something that has become increasingly rare in Washington. “This provision shows how government should work. Republicans and Democrats working together with industry and labor to pass a provision that will protect American jobs and put our nation on strong footing,” he said. “It will provide a playbook to the maritime industry, one they can follow to bring few Jones Act waivers and more jobs to our workers.” When it comes to the law’s changes to the TWIC program, the new provisions are designed to make the process easier for mariners. Under the new law, the process of enrollment, activation, issuance and renewal of TWIC cards must take place during a single visit to an enrollment center. Gone will be the days of multiple trips to enrollment centers for those applying for or renewing their TWIC cards. “Congress is recognizing what we’ve known for a long time – that the TWIC program is not working the way it’s supposed to,” Schoeneman said. “That’s really important. It was such an onerous process.” While processing centers were abundant when the TWIC program was launched several years ago, the number of offices nationwide dwindled after the program was up and running, making it harder for some mariners to access them. Schoeneman said the SIU lobbied to streamline the TWIC process to make it less of a burden on those applying for or renewing their cards. “A lot of guys in the Midwest were traveling hundreds of miles,” he said. It’s a good sign Congress was hearing what we’re telling them.” The regulations implementing the TWIC changes still have to be issued. February 2013 1/24/2013 5:38:43 PM �Committee members, employees from the secretary-treasurer’s office and Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel (standing at far right) are pictured Jan. 8 at SIU headquarters. Committee Announces Union Election Results Membership Reelects Sacco as President, Approves Two Constitutional Amendments A committee of rank-and-file SIU members recently released its official report on the voting for national officers of the Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District. Voting took place Nov. 1 through Dec. 31, 2012. The union’s tallying committee consisted of 20 Seafarers (two members elected from each of the SIU’s 10 constitutional halls). The group certified the reelections of Michael Sacco as president of the SIU; Augie Tellez as the union’s executive vice president; David Heindel as secretary-treasurer; and George Tricker as vice president of contracts and contract enforcement, among other results. The tallying committee’s report will be submitted for approval by the membership at union meetings in March. Additionally, the committee reported that the two proposed constitutional amendments were approved by very large majorities. One amendment concerned the official name of the union, while the other modified old language because of changes in U.S. law. According to the report, the contested race for office also was decided by a large margin. The committee disclosed the election of the following officers, who will serve four-year terms: n Michael Sacco, president; n Augie Tellez, executive vice president; n David Heindel, secretary-treasurer n George Tricker, contracts and contract enforcement vice president; n Joseph Soresi, Atlantic Coast vice president; n Dean Corgey, Gulf Coast vice president; n Nick Marrone, West Coast vice president; n Tom Orzechowski, Southern Region, Great Lakes and inland waters vice president; n Kermett Mangram, Government Services and fishing industries vice president; n Archie Ware, assistant vice president in charge of contracts and contract enforcement; n Nick Celona, assistant vice president in charge of the Atlantic Coast; n Ambrose Cucinotta, assistant vice president in charge of the Gulf Coast; n Bryan Powell, assistant vice president in charge of the West Coast; n Jim McGee, assistant vice president in charge of the Southern Region, Great Lakes and inland waters; n Chester Wheeler, assistant vice president in charge of Government Services and fishing industries; n Pat Vandegrift, Piney Point port agent; n Robert Selzer, New York port agent; n Joe Baselice, Philadelphia port agent; n Georg Kenny, Baltimore port agent; n Jimmy White, Mobile port agent; n Chris Westbrook, New Orleans port agent; n Michael Russo, Houston port agent; n Tracey Mayhew, Oakland port agent; n Becky Sleeper, St. Louis port agent; n Todd Brdak, Algonac port agent. The committee arrived on Jan. 5 as required under the union’s constitution and met during the week of Jan. 7 at the union’s headquarters in Camp Springs, Md. John Cain and Louella Sproul served as co-chairs, and they both credited fellow Seafarers for working hard and doing a good job. The full committee consisted of Glenn Williams and Thomas Cyrus from Piney Point; Michael Keogh and Jeffery Eckhart from Algonac; Susanne Cake and George Mazzola from Baltimore; Cain and Rafael Pereira from Houston; Michael Congress and Kennard Campbell from Mobile; Jack McElveen and Johney August from New Orleans; Carlos Sanchez and Cleofe Castro from New York; Sproul and Roger Reinke from Oakland; Rodger Taylor and Robert Weinhardt from Philadelphia; and Charlotte Tuggle and Darryl Alexander from St. Louis. Those Seafarers noted that they unanimously signed off on the report, adding, “All of the members of the committee wish to express their deep appreciation for the cooperation and assistance given to us by the union’s legal department and its technical and clerical staff. Finally, the members of the union tallying committee wish to congratulate the elected officers and jobholders. We extend our best wishes for the next four years. We hope that you will carry on the tradition of our union and advance the strength of the maritime industry.” MLP Contract Award Means New Jobs for SIU Members New jobs for SIU members are on the horizon following the December announcement that Seafarers-contracted Ocean Ships, Inc. has won the operating contract for three new mobile landing platform (MLP) vessels. The ships are being built at General Dynamics NASSCO in San Diego; they are the USNS Montford Point, USNS John Glenn, and USNS Lewis B. Puller. According to the government’s announcement of the agreement, each of the MLPs will be approximately 785 feet long and will be able to sail at 15 knots. They are expected to be deployed as prepositioning ships. The Montford Point is scheduled for delivery in mid-May of 2013, followed by the John Glenn in early 2014 and the Lewis Puller in early 2015. Including options, the Ocean Ships contract is for five years. According to the U.S. Military Sealift Command, the new ships “will be the centerpiece of the Navy’s ‘Sea Base’ concept, and will serve as a transfer point for Marine Corps amphibious landing forces between large ships and small landing craft. They will provide the capability to transfer vehicles and equipment at-sea, improving the U.S. military’s ability to deliver equipment and cargo from ship to shore when land bases do not exist.” NASSCO (a union shipyard) described the MLP as “a flexible platform that will February 2013 15042_February_LOG.indd 3 provide capability for large-scale logistics movements such as the transfer of vehicles and equipment from sea to shore. It will significantly reduce dependency on foreign ports and provide support in the absence of any port, making it especially useful during disaster response and for supporting Marines once they are ashore.” The Montford Point is named for the North Carolina facility where 20,000 African American Marines were trained over seven years, starting in 1942. One day before the contract announcement, NASSCO hosted a keel-laying ceremony for the second MLP, the John Glenn. Ms. Lyn Glenn, daughter of John Herschel Glenn, Jr., the first American astronaut to orbit the Earth, and Mrs. Helen L. Toolan, wife of Lt. Gen. John A. Toolan, Jr., commanding general, 1st Marine Expeditionary Force, were the honorees for the ceremony. “Laying the keel of this second mobile landing platform and finishing construction of the first ship are the latest milestones in this successful shipbuilding program,” said Fred Harris, the shipyard president and himself a former union mariner. “These events serve as evidence of the NASSCO team building and delivering MLP ships efficiently, in support of U.S. Navy efforts to The USNS Montford Point, shown at the yard in San Diego, will boost America’s sealift maintain a forward presence.” capability. (Photo courtesy General Dynamics NASSCO) Seafarers LOG 3 1/24/2013 5:38:44 PM �Mariners and officials are pictured aboard the Wright. MarAd Recognizes SIU Members For Support of Sandy Relief Efforts Seafarers recently were honored by the U.S. Maritime Administration (MarAd) for their roles supporting Hurricane Sandy relief efforts in New York and New Jersey. SIU members and other mariners received the U.S. Merchant Marine Medal for Outstanding Achievement during shipboard ceremonies in Staten Island and Fort Schuyler, N.Y. The first event took place Dec. 15 aboard the SS Wright and the Kennedy, while the latter one was conducted Dec. 20 on the Empire State. The Crowley-operated Wright is part of the Ready Reserve Force; the Kennedy and Empire State are training vessels. Maritime Administrator David Matsuda wrote in a related blog post, “As their relief mission ends, I’d like to recognize the 120 men and women who served for more than 40 days as crew on these ships…. For six weeks, relief workers from all over the country, including many who had never been on a ship, stayed aboard. Galley crews made sure meals were ready starting at 5:30 a.m., so the relief workers could get an early start. And as these workers returned after long days ashore, crews worked to try to provide them at least some comforts, including Internet access and even a few holiday decorations. “In all, the three MarAd ships provided more than 37,000 bed-nights and 72,000 meals for disaster relief workers from FEMA, the Red Cross, and other relief organizations. Because of this floating dormitory service, relief workers did not take up local hotel space needed for housing displaced families.” He added, “I’m proud of their work. The professionalism, care, compassion, and outstanding support exhibited by these mariners to thousands of emergency responders bring great honor and distinction to the U.S. Merchant Marine. Mariners are no strangers to being away from home and their families during holidays, and they told me in no uncertain terms that they would stay on the job for as long as they are needed.” New York-area SIU officials attended the ceremonies and joined in congratulating Seafarers. Pictured from left to right on the Kennedy are Patrolman Osvaldo Ramos, SA Loren Arrioloa, Patrolman Terence Maxwell, AB Ibrahim Abdelkarim (squatting), SA Ariel Lopez-Albino, Patrolman Mark von Siegel and AB Zachary Thibeault. Among those pictured in the Wright’s galley are SA Tania Ramirez-Diego, Chief Cook Felecia Royalty and ACU Steven Holmes. Gulf Coast VP Corgey Receives Port Appointment Piracy Falls in 2012 but SIU Vice President Gulf Coast Dean Corgey on Jan. 16 was appointed by the Houston City Council to serve as a member of the Port Commission of the Port of Houston Authority. Corgey’s appointment fills the seat previously held by Janiece Longoria, who was named Port Commission chair Jan. 8 during a joint session of the Houston City Council and Harris County Commissioners Court. She had served as the city appointee to the commission since 2002. Corgey has been an SIU vice president since 1990. He joined the union in 1973 after graduating from the trainee program in Piney Point, Md. He sailed for six years (including time as a licensed chief engineer) before coming ashore to work for the union in 1979. Houston Mayor Annise Parker said, “It is important to have labor represented in the port’s activities and it needs Dean Corgey SIU VP Gulf Coast 4 Seafarers LOG 15042_February_LOG.indd 4 to be the right voice for labor. Dean Corgey is eminently qualified for this position. City council’s unanimous confirmation of his appointment indicates we are all in agreement that he will do an outstanding job.” Longoria stated, “Dean Corgey’s background as a merchant mariner and his community leadership will be of great value to the port commission, and I look forward to working with him on the commission to benefit the Port of Houston.” “I have been asked many times why I want to be a port commissioner and the simple answer is that I want to serve,” Corgey stated on Jan. 16. “I have learned that the most rewarding of human endeavors is to serve those other than oneself, whether it be one’s faith, family, community or civic body. Next week we will celebrate the birthday of Martin Luther King, Jr., who dedicated his life to serving his fellow man. Dr. King said it best when he said: ‘An individual has not started living until he can rise above the narrow confines of his individualistic concerns to the broader concerns of all humanity.’ Those are the principles and values that I will exercise in the performance of my duties as commissioner.” Corgey also serves as a vice president of the Texas AFLCIO; as secretary-treasurer of the West Gulf Ports Council of the AFL-CIO Maritime Trades Department; and on the executive board of the Harris County AFL-CIO. He is a member of the American Maritime Partnership and the Navy League of the United States. He is a past member of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Area Maritime Security Committee for the Port of Houston/Galveston and served as chairman of the City of Houston Ethics Committee. In addition, he is a past member of the board of directors of the Houston Maritime Association. Port Commissioners serve two-year terms without pay. “I intend to be a voice for labor and working families and I pledge to work in the best interest of the city, port and workers with diligence and integrity,” Corgey added. “I also look forward to working with our new port chair, Janiece Longoria, and the other commissioners to improve efficiency, accountability and transparency, maintain local control, secure funding for much-needed capital improvements, develop new business and cargo, create jobs, promote diversity and make educational opportunities available to meet future challenges and growth.” Remains Deadly Problem Piracy on the world’s seas has reached a five-year low, with 297 ships attacked in 2012 compared with 439 in 2011, the International Chamber of Commerce’s (ICC) International Maritime Bureau (IMB) global piracy report revealed last month. Worldwide figures were brought down by a significant reduction in Somali piracy, though East and West Africa remain the worst-hit areas, with 150 attacks in 2012, according to the report issued Jan. 16. “Globally, 174 ships were boarded by pirates last year, while 28 were hijacked and 28 were fired upon,” the ICC said in a news release. “IMB’s Piracy Reporting Center also recorded 67 attempted attacks. The number of people taken hostage on board fell to 585 from 802 in 2011, while a further 26 were kidnapped for ransom in Nigeria. Six crew members were killed and 32 were injured or assaulted.” “IMB’s piracy figures show a welcome reduction in hijackings and attacks to ships. But crews must remain vigilant, particularly in the highly dangerous waters off East and West Africa,” said Captain Pottengal Mukundan, director of IMB, which has monitored piracy worldwide since 1991. In Somalia and the Gulf of Aden, 75 ships reported attacks in 2012 compared with 237 in 2011, accounting for 25 percent of incidents worldwide. The number of Somali hijackings was halved from 28 in 2011 to 14 last year. IMB says navies are deterring piracy off Africa’s east coast, with “pre-emptive strikes and robust action against mother ships.” So too are private armed security teams and crews’ application of best management practices. But the threat and capability of heavily armed Somali pirates remains strong. “The continued presence of the navies is vital to ensuring that Somali piracy remains low,” said Mukundan. “This progress could easily be reversed if naval vessels were withdrawn from the area.” In its news release, the ICC noted, “Pirate mother ships and skiffs were reported in the Gulf of Oman, southern Red Sea and the Somali basin, with a number of attacks close to the Straits of Hormuz and the energy routes out of the Arabian Gulf. As of 31 December 2012, Somali pirates still held 104 hostages on eight ships and 23 more were detained on land, pending negotiations for their release.” February 2013 1/24/2013 5:38:47 PM �SIU-Crewed Crowley ATB Rescues Man in Florida Noticing an injured man bobbing in Florida waters in January, Seafarers aboard Crowley Maritime Corp.’s articulated tug-barge (ATB) Achievement/650-8 began what would become a heroic rescue. Emergency Coast Guard radio calls were issued as the ATB’s on-watch crew noticed the man near the base of the Sunshine Bridge in Tampa Bay. He was struggling to stay afloat on the port side of the vessel. AB Alan Williams responded immediately, throwing a life ring to the man as Capt. Gus Cramer sounded the manoverboard alarm. The crew then prepared the fast rescue boat for deployment while the captain slowed the ATB down for a safe boat launch. Manned by AB/Tankerman Travis Stringer and Second Mate John Crawford, the fast rescue boat headed toward the man, who had drifted nearly a mile away and was calling for help. The boat team braved windy conditions and rough chop while still managing to pull the badly injured man from the water. The entire process took only eight minutes. “This crew did a phenomenal job working as a team to save this man’s life,” Cramer said. “From the guys on the bow, to the men on the response boat, to everyone who kept the vessel safe during the rescue … it was just a fantastic, total team effort. We did our jobs safely and saved a life in the process.” The crew’s efforts were also aided by Cramer’s close work with Tampa Bay The ATB crew included (from left) AB Alan Williams, Third Mate Doug Carson, Cook Pat McGee, Chief Mate Ron Robinson, AB Tankerman Chris Farmer, Chief Engineer Vince Mull, AB/Tankerman Travis Stringer, Capt. Gus Cramer. Not pictured are Second Mate John Crawford, Asst. Engineer Zach Lindsey, and Asst. Engineer Charles Jensen. Harbor Pilot Mike Buffington. Together they helped the crew perform the slowdown procedure, remained in communication with the Coast Guard and ensured the ATB was not in danger by avoiding oncoming vessel traffic and safely keeping it within commercial shipping lanes. Buffington said he was impressed by the training of the Seafarers aboard the vessel. Much of the crew received that training at the union-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. SIU Ships Sail for ‘Deep Freeze’ SIU-crewed vessels are continuing the union’s tradition of supporting a key annual resupply mission known as Operation Deep Freeze. The Ocean Giant (operated by Crowley for Intermarine) and the Maersk Peary (Maersk Line, Limited) recently mobilized for this year’s journey to McMurdo Station in Antarctica. The Ocean Giant sailed from Port Hueneme, Calif., Jan. 17, loaded with nearly seven million pounds of cargo including frozen and dry food stores, building supplies, vehicles and electronic equipment and parts. The tanker Maersk Peary departed the European area of operations in December, with more than six million gallons of diesel fuel, jet fuel and gasoline. Operation Deep Freeze – which has been backed by SIU crews for decades – is a U.S. military support mission to resupply the remote scientific outpost. During this year’s operation, SIUcrewed ships will deliver 100 percent of the fuel and about 80 percent of the supplies that researchers and support personnel in Antarctica need to survive and work during the course of a year, according to the U.S. Military Sealift Command (MSC). The Maersk Peary was scheduled to arrive in Antarctica first, followed by the Ocean Giant in mid-February. MSC reported that the Ocean Giant “is scheduled to off-load its cargo at a 500-foot ice pier that juts out from the Antarctic coast. The cargo will be off-loaded by members of Navy Cargo Handling Battalion One working around-the-clock for eight days. Following the off-load, the ship will be loaded with retrograde cargo for transportation off the continent, including ice core samples carried back to the United States in sub-zero freezer containers, trash and recyclable materials for disposal, and equipment no longer required on station. “In 2012, unfavorable weather conditions made the ice pier at McMurdo unusable for dry cargo operations. Members of the Army’s 331st Transportation Company constructed a floating dock to ensure cargo operations could be conducted.” Due to adverse winter conditions in Antarctica, Operation Deep Freeze must take place during a small window of opportunity in the Antarctic summer months of January to March. This can mean tight schedules for everyone involved in the mission, from the ship’s crew, to the cargo handlers on the ice, to the mission schedulers in the United States. The Ocean Giant loads cargo in California before sailing to Antarctica. (U.S. Navy photo) February 2013 15042_February_LOG_X.indd 5 “It is obvious from this event that the crew was well-trained and highly proficient in the execution of their duties,” Buffington said. “Each crew member … gave full devotion to the task at hand. I am convinced that with the prevailing weather and sea conditions that this individual would not have been recovered from the waters had it not been for the valiant efforts of the captain and crew.” The crew’s heroics were also recognized by top Crowley officials. “On behalf of everyone at Crowley, I want to congratulate this brave crew for putting their training to good use to perform the vital measures needed to save this man’s life,” said Rob Grune, Crowley’s senior vice president and general manager, petroleum services. “These crew members are true heroes and deserve to be recognized for their actions.” Following the rescue, business returned to normal for the crew of the Achievement/650-8. It safely entered the bay to deliver a load of fuel in the Port of Tampa. Changes in Washington Could Have Impact On Maritime Industry, Labor Movement The appointment of pro-maritime Sen. Barbara Mikulski (D-Md.) as chairwoman of the powerful Senate Appropriations Committee was the first of several Washington-based moves that could deeply affect the maritime industry and labor movement. Due to a combination of retirements, election losses and the deaths of some key maritime supporters, the industry is looking at a new slate of leaders in the 113th Congress. Senator Mikulski’s appointment was followed by news that Rep. Duncan D. Hunter (R-Calif.) would be the next chairman of the House Subcommittee on Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation, which has jurisdiction over the regulation of ocean shipping and the merchant marine. He replaces longtime maritime labor ally Rep. Frank LoBiondo (R-N.J.), who has moved to chair the Aviation Subcommittee. On the Democratic side, Rep. John Garamendi (D-Calif.) is replacing Rep. Rick Larsen (D-Wash.) as the Ranking Member of the Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation subcommittee. There were, however, some questions following those two key announcements. Labor Secretary Hilda Solis is leaving, Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood is reportedly staying, and the futures of other key maritime-related posts, like those in the Maritime Administration, remain unknown. The appointment of Mikulski – a strong supporter of working families and the maritime industry – was seen as a great start for the SIU and its allies. In a letter to Mikulski following her appointment, SIU President Michael Sacco said he was pleased to see a longtime friend of the SIU and labor take on such an important role. “I am extremely confident you will do an excellent job and on behalf of the Seafarers International Union, I look forward to working with you and the committee,” Sacco said. “We are longtime supporters of yours, just as you have been a longtime supporter of ‘the heroes in dungarees.’” The appropriations committee is respon- sible for funding government programs and departments – many of which have jurisdiction over the maritime industry. In a floor speech following her appointment, Mikulski said she would place national security, jobs and the country’s future at the top of her list of priorities. “When we look at how we are going to spend the money, we need to look not just at how we’re going to meet our national security needs but also the compelling human needs in this country,” she said. “We need to look at the public investments in our children, in our future and in how to promote our economy. And we need to do it on a bipartisan basis.” Hunter was also looking forward to getting to work. “I’m really looking forward to working with (incoming Transportation and Infrastructure Committee) Chairman (Bill) Shuster and other members of the committee as we address the nation’s infrastructure and transportation needs,” he said in a statement. “It’s an honor to have been selected for the subcommittee chairmanship and I am enthusiastic about serving alongside such a talented team of leaders committed to promoting economic growth, competitiveness and public safety.” It’s still too early to know what will happen to other key positions. In January, Solis announced her departure from the Labor Department, though, as of press time, the president had not announced her replacement. In a statement following the publication of Solis’ resignation, Obama said the future labor secretary would have big shoes to fill. “Over the last four years, Secretary Solis has been a critical member of my economic team as we have worked to recover from the worst economic downturn since the Great Depression and strengthen the economy for the middle class,” he said. “Her efforts have helped train workers for the jobs of the future, protect workers’ health and safety and put millions of Americans back to work.” Seafarers LOG 5 1/25/2013 4:18:02 PM �A collection of donated toys sits in the Tacoma SIU hall waiting to be given to children. Seafarers Continue Tradition of Generosity Seafarers once again displayed their generosity during the holiday season in acts of giving throughout the country. From the SIU halls in Tacoma, Wash., and Ft. Lauderdale Fla., to the deck of the USNS Wheat, members donated time and money to ensure the holidays were a little brighter for the less fortunate. In Tacoma, Seafarers conducted their fifth holiday season toy drive (and enjoyed a related luncheon at the hall). This time, the members raised more than $5,200 for Santa’s Castle, a charity dedicated to helping the families of enlisted military personnel. A portion of that money was donated by the crew of the Alaska Tanker Company ship Alaskan Legend in memory of AB John Stewart, whose death was remembered by his shipmates. “This time of year is special for each of us. It’s our chance to give back and say ‘thank you,’” said SIU Tacoma Port Agent Joe Vincenzo. “Although we are fortunate enough in these most difficult of times to have goodpaying union jobs with benefits, we do not get involved or reach out to feel better about ourselves or our circumstances or to be more thankful for the things we have. We reach out because we are all in this together and in some sense, whether near or far, we realize this and want to do our part to make things better for everyone.” Vincenzo specifically recognized the efforts of AB Tawnia Stucker, who took it upon herself to raise funds aboard the Alaskan Legend for the project. “It is people like Tawnia who really make the difference,” he said. “There are no brownie points or gold stars or accolades of any sort awaiting her for her efforts. She gave in the true spirit of giving by volunteering some time and asking others to make a donation while making one herself.” Aside from giving money, Tacoma Seafarers also offered their time as shoppers for Santa’s Castle, picking out toys and presenting them to grateful parents. Vincenzo said it was impossible to not feel warmth from parents as they were given toys that would bring smiles to their children’s faces. “It was an eye-opener for me personally to see just how humble and grateful the parents are, both the enlisted (service members) and spouses of the enlisted service members,” he said. “They are truly remarkable people who, quite frankly, deserve so much more for their service.” Tacoma wasn’t the only place getting into the holiday spirit. Seafarers in Ft. Lauderdale spent their fourth year of giving back by helping Coast Guard families through the U.S. Marine Corp’s Toys for Tots program. Port Agent Kris Hopkins said they focused on Coast Guard families due to their close relationship with SIU mariners and the fact that many simply needed the help. “It was really quite amazing the stories I was hearing about families that were having a tough time this year,” Hopkins said. “It’s tough for a lot of families these days.” He added Seafarers were eager to help any way they could. Thanks to their generous donations, around 20 families had a brighter holiday season. Coast Guard Damage Control Chief Richard Moore said he and his colleagues were grateful to have the chance to work with the SIU members, adding the recipients of the toys were even more grateful. “We jumped at the opportunity to do it,” he said. “It was great to see the looks on the faces when we reached out to them with help.” Hopkins said that’s one of the reasons his members are so excited to give back each year. “The members are into the sense that, hey, somebody’s going to get something under the tree. A kid who was probably not going to get anything is now going to get something,” he said. “If you can put a smile on a child’s face it’s very fulfilling.” The generosity coming out of Tacoma and Ft. Lauderdale this year was joined by the Seafarers aboard the USNS Wheat, operated by Maersk Line, Limited. Capt. Michael Hasson said the officers and crew aboard the Wheat raised more than $4,000 to benefit the U.S. Marine Corp’s Wounded Warrior Regiment and the Injured Marine Semper Fi fund. Hasson praised the generosity shown by the officers and crew, specifically mentioning the devotion exhibited by SIU members in supporting the charities. The Wounded Warrior Regiment provides assistance to wounded and ill service members and their families as they return to duty or transition into civilian life. The Semper Fi Fund provides relief from service members’ financial needs arising from hospitalization and recovery following their service. “I am very proud of the SIU members aboard the USNS Wheat for their selfless do- nation to the Wounded Warriors (Regiment) and Semper Fi Fund,” Hasson said. “The USNS Wheat officers and crew all agree that as much as these American heroes have sacrificed, they deserve the best care and support available in their hour of need.” That giving spirit, Vincenzo said, is simply part of the DNA of Seafarers. From helping during disasters like 9/11 or Hurricanes Katrina and Sandy, to giving back during the holidays, Vincenzo said Seafarers would continue to do what they could to help those in need. “We could wax philosophical and talk about our collective identity, but all we really have to do is point to our accomplishments over the years to see just what our mettle is and how it connects us to our economic, national and homeland security,” he said. SIU volunteers (photo above) including Chief Cook Tanya Bradley (foreground), SA Else David, Chief Cook Nasser Ahmed and Recertified Steward Abdul Hassan helped make the holiday gathering in Tacoma a success. In the photo below, Coast Guard Damage Control Chief Richard Moore (left), SA Mauricio Fernandez, Coast Guard MKC Walt Callenius, Port Agent Kris Hopkins and SA German Solar pose following their successful Florida toy drive. SIU Tacoma Port Agent Joe Vincenzo (right) addresses members and guests at the union hall. Also pictured are Santa’s Castle President Anita Vargo and secretary Lisa Bennett along with military personnel. 6 Seafarers LOG 15042_February_LOG.indd 6 February 2013 1/24/2013 5:38:52 PM �ITF: Panama Should Assist Crew The International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF) is calling on Panama to join in helping the recently released, multinational crew of the Iceberg 1 to recover from their hostage ordeal. The crew of the Panama-flagged vessel was held for nearly three years by Somali pirates – who subjected them to torture, starvation and mutilation – before being released in December. The 22 hostages, from seven nations (the chief officer is still missing and another mariner committed suicide during his captivity), were helped home by United Nations entities with support from, among others, Interpol, the Maritime Piracy Humanitarian Response Program (MPHRP), the mariners’ respective consulates (two countries sent aircraft to pick up their nationals) and the ITF. According to the federation, the former hostages “are now in need of psychological help to address the trauma they were deliberately subjected to, and assistance with rebuilding their lives. Many have medical problems and are looking for help.” SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel, who also serves as chair of the ITF Seafarers’ Section, stated, “There is a good understanding across the shipping industry of just how much these seafarers and their families have suffered over the last three years, and it’s no surprise that some people in the industry have offered financial support. However, we’d particularly like the flag state, which in this case is Panama, to join them and us in sponsoring this relief effort.” He continued, “It is unfortunate that the flag state has not discharged its duty of care set out by the IMO (International Maritime Organization) to these seafarers during their captivity, even though they were serving on a vessel flying its flag. There is now an opportunity for it to contribute to their support and rehabilitation. “The cruel and barbaric treatment meted out to these mariners must serve as a constant reminder of why pirates have to be fought, pursued and prosecuted.” Twenty-two crew members were freed during gun battles in December: eight Yemenis, five Indians, four Ghanaians, two Pakistanis, two Sudanese and one Filipino. One seafarer, Wagdi Akdram, a Yemeni, was driven to suicide by his ordeal. The fate of the Indian chief officer, Dhiraj Tiwari, is unknown. He is known to have been tortured and separated from the other crew. Another hostage had his ears mutilated. All the crew were subjected to torture and starvation. The Iceberg 1 had been held since March 2010. The shipowner, Azal Shipping of Dubai, had left the vessel uninsured when it was captured. The company paid no wages throughout, either to the seafarers or their families. SHBP Sends Members Second Mailing Regarding Benefits, Coverage Documents As previously reported, Summary of Benefits and Coverage documents were mailed to all Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan (SHBP) participants in December. That mailing was handled by an outside vendor, and the address labels inadvertently included some personal information. Union and SHBP officials quickly took corrective actions to protect all plan participants. Last month, the Plan sent individual letters to SHBP participants letting them know how they may take steps to further safeguard their information (at no financial cost to individual Seafarers). At press time, SHBP and the SIU officials were unaware of any misuse of the information printed on the labels for the December mailing of the Summary of Benefits and Coverage documents. Questions about this issue may be directed to the SHBP at (800) 252-4674. National Food Drive Set for May 11 The National Association of Letter Carriers’ (NALC) annual Stamp Out Hunger Food Drive is scheduled for May 11 (a Saturday). The NALC works in partnership with the AFL-CIO Community Services network, United Way Worldwide, and the nation’s food bank network to bring food to the pantries of those in need. In order to participate, citizens simply need to place boxes or cans of non-perishable food next to their respective mailboxes before the letter carriers deliver mail May 11. The carriers will do the rest. The food is taken to a postal station, sorted and delivered by The MV Iceberg 1 is pictured off the Puntland, Somalia, coast following the rescue. IMO guidelines for flag states recommend that “a state’s counter-piracy policy should contain measures regarding the eventuality that a ship entitled to fly its flag is captured, News Briefs union volunteers to area food banks or pantries for needy families to access. According to the AFL-CIO, the Stamp Out Hunger Food Drive is the nation’s largest one-day food drive. Last year, nearly 71 million pounds of non-perishable food items were collected, making it the ninth straight year that collections topped the 70-million-pound mark. Altogether, nearly 1.2 billion pounds of food have been collected and donated since the national drive began in 1993. For more information, visit the NALC website at www. nalc.org/commun/foodrive/ Financial Help Offered to Retired Mariners The Trustees of the Sailors’ Snug Harbor (SSH) are looking to help retired mariners who are in need of financial assistance. Formed in 1806, the non-profit organization has assisted former SIU and NMU members over the years, and is currently accepting applications from potential new recipients. That support is being offered to career mariners who meet the following requirements: n Have 3,650 days of deep sea time proven through discharge papers, with at least 50 percent of that time taking place on U.S.-flag ships. n Be 65 years of age or older. n Demonstrate a proven need for financial assistance. n Not have assets exceeding $50,000 (primary residence excluded.) All public benefits available to an eligible mariner must be accessed before any aid from SSH is approved. Examples include Medicare and VA benefits. and to ensure that, as far as possible, the humanitarian needs of the crew and families are addressed during the period of captivity and after release….” Each interested mariner must complete an application that requires detailed information about present living arrangements and financial history. Questions and application requests are being fielded by the SSH mariner counselor at 1-888-257-5456. The application, along with additional information, can also be found online at www.thesailorssnugharbor.com. MM&P Announces Election Results The International Organization of Masters, Mates and Pilots announced its election results following the earlier decision of longtime MM&P President Tim Brown to, in his words, “allow others, with new ideas, to lead this great organization going forward.” Brown declined his nomination at the MM&P convention last year. Subsequently, Don Marcus, who had been the union’s secretary-treasurer, was elected president and took office Jan. 1. Also elected or re-elected were Secretary-Treasurer Steve Werse, Atlantic Ports Offshore Vice President Don Josberger, Pacific Ports Vice President Dave Boatner, Gulf Ports Vice President Wayne Farthing, United Inland Group Vice President Mike Murray, Pilots Group Vice President George Quick and Federal Employees Membership Group Vice President Randall Rockwood. “All these men have long and distinguished records of service to MM&P,” said Brown, the outgoing president. “They have the experience, the foresight and the drive to navigate our ship going forward.” In his farewell column in the union’s magazine, Brown said he “heartily” endorsed his successor. Remembering Retiree Duracher Seafarers and officers gathered last September aboard Liberty Maritime’s Liberty Eagle to memorialize the late SIU retiree Harry Duracher. Some of the mariners are pictured in the group photo above, while the vessel master is at the left. Brother Duracher sailed with the SIU from the mid-1950s through 1989. The Louisiana resident was a deck department member and passed away at age 73. February 2013 15042_February_LOG.indd 7 Seafarers LOG 7 1/24/2013 5:38:54 PM �Mariner Snapshots from Around the Halls OAKLAND – Clockwise beginning with photo above, Recertified Bosun Stephen Garay (second from left) picks up his first pension check and receives kudos from (from left) Diana Marrone, administrative assistant, SIU Asst. VP Nick Celona and Patrolman Nick Marrone II. Deck-department Seafarer Remy Pao receives his full B-seniority book and takes the oath, administered by Asst. VP Celona. OMU Edwin Simene (left) gets his A-book from Patrolman Marrone. Chief Cook Antedio Liquid (right) receives his A-book from the patrolman. Chief Storekeeper Reynante Soriano (left) picks up his B-book. JACKSONVILLE – VP Gulf Coast Dean Corgey (left) gives the oath and a B-book to GUDE Ranada Littles. Asst. VP Archie Ware is in the background. WILMINGTON – QMED/Electrician Martin Hamilton (right) gets his A-book from Port Agent Jeff Turkus. PINEY POINT – OS Kevin Blackman (left) poses with Port Agent Pat Vandegrift after acquiring his full B-book. HOUSTON – Asst. VP Jim McGee (left) administers the union oath and presents an A-book to Pumpman Marcos Clotter. Port Agent Mike Russo is in the background. 8 Seafarers LOG 15042_February_LOG.indd 8 MOBILE – After 37 years of service, Third Asst. Engineer Floyd E. Sanderson (left) comes ashore and picks up his first retirement check, from Port Agent Jimmy White. February 2013 1/24/2013 5:38:59 PM �Seafarers Celebrate Holidays At Sea, Around the Ports Seafarers in November and December gathered aboard ships at sea and at ports around the country to welcome in the winter holiday season. In addition to sharing fellowship with their brothers and sisters, rank-and-file members at these locations also partook in a smorgasbord of traditional holiday fare. Retirees, family members and other guests also par- ticipated in the festivities at the halls. Not to be left out, union officials made appearances at some of the events. Photos from some of these gatherings appear on the next three pages. APL Thailand Recertified Steward Joel Molinos (right) and Asst. Cook Bernie Igot stand behind some of their handiwork and that of Chief Cook Tammy Bingisser. Recertified Steward Joel Molinos provided these photos from Thanksgiving at sea on the APL Thailand. “We want to say happy holidays to all our SIU brothers and sisters, from the bottom of our hearts,” he noted. Molinos added that ev- eryone seemed to enjoy the elaborate menu as the ship sailed “in the middle of the Pacific.” He teamed up with Chief Cook Tammy Bingisser and Asst. Cook Bernie Igot to deliver the holiday feast. Mariners begin gathering for a meal aboard the APL Thailand. Recertified Steward Joel Molinos APL Thailand Ocean Atlas Midnight Sun Ocean Atlas vessel master Capt. Scott A. Lund wrote of the vessel’s Christmas at sea, “We purchased a Christmas tree, lights, ornaments, special holiday foods, gifts for the crew and security team from the ship’s fund and the generosity of the Beaumont, Texas, seamen’s center.” He added that everyone pictured is a current or former SIU member. The ship is managed by Crowley for Intermarine. Back row, from left: 1AE Gary Gilbert, GUDE Rodney Davis, Capt. Scott A. Lund, AB Wadeea Alnasafi, (front, from left) 3AE Christopher Irwin, 3rd Mate Frank Guido, AB Nicolas Byers, Bosun Nicholas Smithling. Chief Steward Lloyd Ingram, Capt. Scott A. Lund, ACU Marshall Daguio February 2013 15042_February_LOG_X.indd 9 Chief Cook Sal Ahmed (left) said he and the rest of the galley gang on the TOTE-operated Midnight Sun helped fellow crew members celebrate Christmas and New Year’s at sea by providing scrumptious menus. Ahmed said the crew and officers expressed their appreciation; he also credited UA Chase Smith (second from left) for doing “a great job” and learning the tricks of the trade very quickly. Also pictured are Chief Steward Eric Manley (third from left) and SA Eugenio Cabral. Chief Steward Eric Manley (photo at left) and Apprentice Chase Smith (above) man two of their many “galley battle stations” aboard the Midnight Sun during the recent Christmas and New Year’s holiday season. Seafarers LOG 9 1/25/2013 4:18:08 PM �Port of Wilmington The union hall in Wilmington, Calif., welcomed a strong turnout for its Dec. 19 festivities. GUDE Karen Suzuki, Retiree Leonard Viles Among those pictured are members Harry Agatep, Dominador Guerrero, Andy Campollo and Diosdado Abugotal. Sealand Comet Chief Cook Reynaldo Ricarte, Capt. Denny Dennison, SA Saleh Mussa, Chief Steward Cleto Lindong Chief Steward Cleto Lindong, Bosun Khaled Munassar, Chief Cook Reynaldo Ricarte Port of Baltimore A good mix of SIU members, retirees and officials got together in Baltimore in early December to celebrate the holiday season. Some of the attendees are pictured in the photo at left including SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel, SIU Plan Administrator Maggie Bowen and SIU VP Contracts George Tricker who are situated second, third and fifth from the right respectively. Baltimore Port Agent Elizabeth Brown is seventh from the left. 10 Seafarers LOG 15042_February_LOG.indd 10 February 2013 1/24/2013 5:39:10 PM �Port of Norfolk Maersk Line Limited Port Captain Jeff Londonsky and SIU VP Kermett Mangram SB Robert Greenwood and wife SA Lance Spain and mother, Cassie. Future Seafarer Martin Baker Jr. Robert Lambourne of Maersk Line Limited Crewing and Norfolk Port Agent Georg Kenny Wiper Ryan Cason and ABG Rosalind Sparrow, his mother. Chief Cook Avis Hawkins, Chief Cook Helen Mitchell and SA Deborah Artis ABG Chris Hunning, SA George Olegario and Chief Cook Elizabeth Ibanez GUDE Tyree Delk, SA Arcia Shaw, ABT Cedric Linzy and guest Recertified Steward Adele George and ABG Jonathan Davis Retirees Melvin Hite, Ethel Brooks and Mack Young SB James Sivells, Retired OMU John Cooper and ABG Ben- ABB Martin Baker and son, Martin nie Spencer Jr. SA Cieara Rogers Retired QMED Mamoun Mann and Bosun James Burke February 2013 15042_February_LOG_X.indd 11 3rd AENG Antuan Barnes, a hawespiper ABG Gary White QEE Kevin Quinlan Seafarers LOG 11 1/25/2013 4:18:16 PM �What’s New For 2013 Following are some of the changes that will take effect in 2012 and 2013, along with provisions that remain in effect from 2011. Please check www.irs.gov before filing your return. Due date of return - File Form 1040 by April 15, 2013. Exemptions - The personal exemption and the dependency exemption increased to $3,800 for 2012. For tax year 2012, there is still no phase-out of the exemption. You will not lose part of your deduction for personal exemptions and itemized deductions, regardless of the amount of your adjusted gross income (AGI). For tax year 2013, the phase-out is reinstated at the higher threshold of $250,000 for single individuals, $275,000 for heads of household, $300,000 for married filling joint, and $150,000 for married filing separately. Standard Deductions – The standard deduction for married couples filing a joint return increased to $11,900 for 2012. The standard deduction for single individuals and married couples filing separate returns is $5,950 for 2012. The standard deduction for heads of household increased to $8,700 for 2012. You can use the 2012 Standard Deduction Worksheet in chapter 20, Publication 17 to figure your standard deduction. Itemized Deductions - Overall income limits for itemized deductions do not apply in 2012. Before 2010, taxpayers whose incomes were above certain levels lost part of their itemized deductions. For taxpayers at all income levels, limitations continue to apply to particular itemized deductions, such as medical and dental expenses, certain miscellaneous itemized deductions and casualty and theft losses. For tax year 2013, the phase-out is reinstated at the higher threshold of $250,000 for single individuals, $275,000 for heads of household, $300,000 for married filling joint, and $150,000 for married filing separately. Medical Care Itemized Deduction Threshold - For 2013, the threshold for the itemized deduction for unreimbursed medical expenses has increased to 10% of adjusted gross income for regular income tax purposes. In years 2013 - 2016, if either the taxpayer or the taxpayer’s spouse has turned 65 before the end of the tax year, the threshold remains at 7.5% of adjusted gross income. Self-employed health insurance deduction - Effective March 30, 2010, if you were self-employed and paid for health insurance, you may be also able to include in your self-employed health insurance deduction any premiums you paid to cover your child who was under age 27 at the end of 2012, even if the child was not your dependent. However, for 2012 self-employed individuals can no longer deduct the cost of their health insurance premiums when calculating net earnings from self-employment for purposes of self-employment taxes. Earned Income Credit (EIC) - The EIC is a credit for certain people who work. The credit may give you a refund even if you do not owe any tax. The maximum amount of income you can earn and credit available increased for 2012: n Credit of $5,891 if you have three or more qualifying children and you earn less than $45,060 ($50,270 if married filing jointly) n Credit of $5,236 if you have two qualifying children and you earn less than $41,952 ($47,162 if married filing jointly), n Credit of $3,169 if you have one qualifying child and you earn less than $36,920 ($42,130 if married filing jointly), or n Credit of $475 if you do not have a qualifying child and you earn less than $13,980 ($19,190 if married filing jointly). The maximum amount of investment income you can have and still get the credit has increased to $3,200 in 2012. Social Security and Medicare Taxes - The maximum amount of wages subject to the Social Security tax for 2012 is $110,100. There is no limit on the amount of wages subject to the Medicare tax. New for 2013, hospital insurance tax in addition to the Medicare tax will be an additional 0.9% tax on wages that exceed the following threshold amounts: $250,000 for married filing jointly and surviving spouses, $125,000 for married filing separately and $200,000 for all others. This additional assessment also applies to self-employed workers. Also for 2013, the reduction of Social Security tax of 2% will expire on December 31, 2012 and the old rate of 6.2% will be reinstated. Self-Employment Tax Rate and Deduction – The FICA portion of the self-employment tax was reduced from 12.4% to 10.4% through the end of 2012. The Medicare portion of the SE tax remains at 2.9%. As a result, the SE tax rate was reduced from 15.3% to 13.3%. For 2011 and 2012, the SE tax deduction is revised to reflect an employer’s equivalent portion of tax. Previously, the deduction was equal to one-half of self-employment tax. The reduction of 2% will expire on December 31, 2012 and the old rates will be reinstated. Capital Gains and Losses - Continuing from 2011 you must report your capital gains and losses on Form 8949 and report the totals on Schedule D. If you sold a covered security in 2012, your broker will report the cost basis on your Form 1099-B. Refer to the IRS website at www.irs.gov/form8949 for additional information and other new developments affecting this form and Schedule D. Qualified Dividend and Capital Gains Tax Rate - The 0% and 15% maximum tax rates on qualified dividends and net capital gains will remain in effect through December 31, 2012. Starting 2013, the tax rate on long-term gains and qualified dividends will increase to 20% for income that exceeds the threshold amount of: $450,000 for married filing jointly and surviving spouses $425,000 for head of household $225,000 for married filing separately $400,000 for single. Also beginning in 2013, capital gain income will be subject to an additional 3.8% Medicare tax. Medicare Tax on Investment Income - New for 2013, a tax equal to 3.8% of the lesser of the individual’s net investment income for the year or the amount the individual’s modified adjusted gross income (AGI) exceeds the threshold amount. The threshold amounts for the additional Medicare tax are as follows: $250,000 for married filing jointly and surviving spouses $125,000 for married filing separately $200,000 for all others. 12 Seafarers LOG 15042_February_LOG.indd 12 Investment income reduced by deductions properly allocable to that income is net investment income. Investment income includes income interest, dividends, annuities, royalties and rents and net gain from disposition of property, other than such income derived in the ordinary course of a trade or business. However, income from a trade or business that is a passive activity and from a trade or business of trading in financial instruments or commodities is included in investment income. Modified adjusted gross income for the purpose of calculating the additional Medicare tax is a person’s adjusted gross income with the foreign earned income exclusion or foreign housing exclusion added back in. Adoption credit - The maximum adoption credit is $12,650 per child, down from $13,360 in 2011 with adjusted gross income phase out of $189,710. For 2012, the credit is nonrefundable. Any unused credit can be carried forward for five years. In general, the adoption credit is based on the reasonable and necessary expenses related to a legal adoption, including adoption fees, court costs, attorney’s fees and travel expenses. Income limits and other special rules apply. In addition to filling out Form 8839, Qualified Adoption Expenses, eligible taxpayers must include with their 2012 tax returns one or more adoption-related documents. For 2013, the projected amount of credit will be $12,770. Child Tax Credit - The American Taxpayer Relief Act of 2012 extends the enhanced child tax credit of $1,000 maximum credit per child for five additional years. This $1,000 credit is scheduled to expire at the end of 2017. For the 2012 tax year the child tax credit starts to be reduced when income reaches the following levels: n $55,000 for married couples filing separately, n $75,000 for single, head of household, and qualifying widow(er) filers, and n $110,000 for married couples filing jointly In the phase-out range, the child tax credit is reduced by $50 for each $1,000 of income above these threshold amounts. The child tax credit is generally nonrefundable credit that is limited to regular tax liability plus alternative minimum tax liability. However, a portion of the credit is refundable for certain taxpayers (see Form 8812 and IRS Pub. 972). Child and Dependent Care Credit - The American Taxpayer Relief Act of 2012 extends the credit of $600 for the cost to care for one child under age 13 or up to $1,200 for two or more so the parents can either go to work or be in process of looking for work. There must be earned income in order to take the credit. The American Opportunity Tax Credit - For tax year 2012, the maximum credit amount can be up to $2,500 and up to $1,000 of that credit amount may be refundable. The credit applies to the first 4 years of post-secondary education in a degree or certificate program. The credit is calculated by taking 100% of the first $2,000 of qualified tuition and related educational expenses and 25% of the next $2,000 of such expenses. The credit is gradually reduced if your Modified AGI is: n $80,000 to $90,000 for Single, Head of Household, and Qualifying Widow(er) n $160,000 to $180,000 for Married Filing Joint The American Opportunity Tax Credit is extended under The American Taxpayer Relief Act of 2012 through the end of 2017. Lifetime Learning Credit - For tax year 2012, the maximum credit amount per tax return can be up to $2,000. The credit is calculated by taking 20% of the educational expenses on the first $10,000 of qualified educational expenses. The credit is gradually reduced if you Modified AGI exceeds $52,000 ($104,000 if married filing joint return) and is completely eliminated if your Modified AGI exceeds $62,000 ($124,000 if married filing joint return). The credit cannot be claimed if your filing status is “married filing separately.” There is no limit on the number of years for which the credit can be claimed for each student. Tuition and Fees Deductions - This deduction was extended under The American Taxpayer Relief Act of 2012. For tax year 2012, you may be able to deduct up to $4,000 for taxpayers with AGI of $65,000 or less ($130,000 for joint filers) and $2,000 for taxpayers with AGI above $65,000 but less than or equal to $80,000 ($130,000 and $160,000, respectively, for joint filers) for qualified educational expenses paid for yourself, spouse or dependent even if you do not itemize deductions on Schedule A. Taxpayers cannot claim tuition and fees tax deductions in the same year they claim American Opportunity Credit or Lifetime Learning Credit. Taxpayers who choose to claim the tuition and fees deduction must fill out and attach Form 8917. The resulting deduction is reported on Form 1040 Line 34 or Form 1040A Line 19. Expanded Definition of Qualified Expenses for Qualified Tuition Programs - Qualified higher education expenses generally include tuition, fees, room and board, and related expenses such as books and supplies. The expenses must be for the student pursuing a degree, certificate, or similar program, at an eligible educational institution. An eligible educational institution includes most colleges, universities, and certain vocational schools. Educator Expenses - The deduction for eligible elementary and secondary school teachers of up to $250 per year ($500 if you and your spouse were both eligible educators) for expenses paid or incurred for books, certain supplies, computer and other equipment, and, supplementary materials used in the classroom has been extended under The American Taxpayer Relief Act of 2012 through December 31, 2017. State & Local Sales and Use Tax Deduction - The election to deduct state and local general sales and use taxes instead of state and local income taxes as an itemized deduction has been extended under the The American Taxpayer Relief Act of 2012. Under the new tax act, this deduction will be available for years 2012 and 2013. Individual Retirement Accounts: Education IRAs (Coverdell Education Savings Account) - Taxpayers can contribute up to $2,000 each year to an Education IRA for a person under age 18. The contribution is not deductible. Earnings on the contribution will be distributed tax-free, provided they are used to Continued on Page 14 Tax Tips For Members HOW TO PREPARE A TAX RETURN Step 1. Get all records together. n Income Records. These include any Forms W-2, W-2G and 1099. n Itemized deductions and tax credits. n Medical and dental payment records. n Real estate and personal property tax receipts. n Interest payment records for items such as a home mortgage or home equity loan. n Records of payments for child care so an individual could work. Step 2. Get any forms, schedules or publications necessary to assist in filing the return. IRS Publication 17 titled “Your Federal Income Tax for Individuals” is the most comprehensive guide the agency has issued this year. Most IRS offices and many local banks, post offices and libraries have publications designed to provide individuals with information on correctly filing tax returns. Also, you may access the IRS website at www. irs.gov for forms, instructions and publications. Step 3. Fill in the return. Step 4. Check the return to make sure it is correct. Step 5. Sign and date the return. Form 1040 is not considered a valid return unless signed. A spouse must also sign if it is a joint return. Step 6. Attach all required forms and schedules. Attach Copy B of Forms W-2, W-2G and 1099-R to the front of the Form 1040. Attach all other schedules and forms behind Form 1040 in order of the attachment sequence number. If tax is owed, attach the payment to the front of Form 1040 along with Form 1040-V (original only). Write name, address, phone number, Social Security number and form number on your check or money order. Payment also can be made by credit card. You may use American Express, Discover, Visa or Master cards. To pay by credit card, call the toll-free number 1-888-8729829 or 1-888-729-1040 or visit web sites www.officialpayments.com/fed or www.pay1040.com. There is a fee charged based on the amount you are paying. Rounding Off to Whole Dollars: Cents may be rounded off to the nearest whole dollar on the tax return and schedules. To do so, raise amounts from 50 to 99 cents to the next dollar. For example, $1.39 becomes $1 and $1.50 becomes $2. Fast Refund: Taxpayers are able to request direct deposit of their tax refunds by filling out lines 74b, 74c and 74d on their Form 1040. Line 74b is for the bank’s routing number. Line 74c indicates the type of account, and line 74d is the taxpayer’s account number at the bank. When tax returns are filed electronically, a refund will be received in about three weeks, or in two weeks if it is deposited directly into a savings or checking account. For a charge, many professional tax return preparers offer electronic filing in addition to their return preparation services. Beginning in 2009, individuals that prepare their own return can access most commonly used Federal tax forms from the IRS website and directly submit the forms electronically. Free electronic filing is no longer subject to any income limitations. For more information, visit the IRS website at: www.irs.gov. What Are Considered Deductions And Credits Personal Exemption Amount: The deduction for each exemption— for the individual, his or her spouse and dependents is $3,800 per person. A child cannot claim an exemption on his or her return or qualify for a higher education credit if the child’s parents claim a dependency exemption for their child. Standard Deduction: The standard deduction, or dollar amount that reduces the amount that is taxed, increased for married couples filing jointly in 2012 to $11,900. The standard deduction for single individuals and married couples filing separate returns is now $5,950. The standard deduction for heads of household increased to $8,700 for 2012 (see box on this page). Personal Interest Deductions: For 2012, personal interest cannot be deducted. Personal interest includes interest on car loans, credit cards, personal loans and tax deficiencies. Interest on Secured Loans Deductible: In most cases you can deduct all your home mortgage interest depending on the date of your mortgage, the amount of the mortgage and how the proceeds were used. Interest paid on investments is also 100 percent deductible but limited to the amount of investment income earned each year. Any excess can be carried forward to the next year. Union Dues Deduction: Union dues, including working dues, are deductible only if they exceed 2 percent of adjusted gross income. If they do, only the portion over the 2 percent is deductible. The self-employed may deduct union dues as a business expense. Club Dues Deduction: No deduction is permitted for club dues; however, dues paid to professional or public service organizations are deductible for business reasons. Deductions Subject to 2 Percent of Adjusted Gross Income: These include investment advisory fees, trustee’s administrative fees, legal expenses that are paid to produce taxable income, unreimbursed employee expenses, safe deposit box rental and tax preparation fees. Deducting Work-Related Expenses: Expenses associated with a seaman’s work may be considered tax deductible. However, no expense can be deducted for which a seaman has been reimbursed by the employer. Travel to the union hall to register or travel to the union’s designated medical facility to take the required physical and drug tests are examples of expenses which are work-related but not reimbursed by the company. Members of the galley crew may deduct the costs of knives and other equipment they personally own but Other Tax Information Standard Deduction This is the standard deduction chart for most people. If a taxpayer is 65 or older or blind, there are additional standard deductions ($1,150 for a married person or “spouse” or $1,450 for an unmarried person). Note that the personal exemption deduction is $3,800. Filing Status Standard Deduction Single and Married filing separate..................................................$ 5,950 Married filing joint return or qualifying widow(er) with dependent children..................................................................................................$11,900 Head of household.......................................................................................$ 8,700 February 2013 1/24/2013 5:39:18 PM use when on a ship performing their work duties. The purchase of workrelated clothing and other gear, as long as it is truly for work and not paid for by the employer, are likely to be considered tax-deductible. Deducting Work-Related Car Expenses: Use of a personally owned automobile in work-related travel can result in deductible expenses. Two methods can be used to compute automobile expenses—either listing a standard mileage rate or determining actual cost. On the tax return due April 15 of this year, the IRS is accepting a standard mileage rate. The rate for 2012 is 55.5 cents. Parking fees and tolls can be added when using the standard mileage rate. If using actual expenses, information must be available on all operatingrelated costs for the vehicle, including insurance, licenses, maintenance, repairs, depreciation, gas, oil, tolls and parking. The IRS recommends keeping a log book or diary listing all expenses related to travel, for both the standard mileage rate and actual cost method, to ensure accurate records. Only work-related expenses not reimbursed by an employer can be claimed. Deducting Work-Related Meals When Traveling: You can use a special standard meal allowance if you work in the transportation industry. You are in the transportation industry if your work: n Directly involves moving people or goods by airplane, barge, bus, ship, train, or truck, and n Regularly requires you to travel away from home and, during any single trip, usually involves travel to areas eligible for different standard meal allowance rates. If this applies to you, you can claim a standard meal allowance of $59 a day ($65 for travel outside the continental United States) from January 1 through December 31, 2012. Using special rates for transportation workers eliminates the need for you to determine the standard meal allowance for every area where you stop for sleep or rest. If you choose to use the special rate for any trip, you must use the special rate (and not use the regular standard meals allowance rates) for all trips you take that year. Dependent’s Social Security Number: Each dependent must have a Social Security number (SSN). Individuals may get a SSN for their dependent by filing Form SS-5 with their local Social Security Administration office or calling the Administration at 1-800-772-1213. It usually takes about two weeks to receive a SSN. Additional (Refundable) Child Tax Credit – This credit is for certain individuals who get less than the full amount of the child tax credit. The additional child tax credit may give you a refund even if you do not owe any tax. Student Loan Interest: Taxpayers may be able to deduct up to $2,500 of interest paid for qualified education expenses for oneself, spouse or dependents. The deduction is allowed in figuring adjusted gross income. February 2013 15042_February_LOG.indd 13 Private Delivery Services: Tax returns and extensions can be mailed through private delivery services such as DHL Worldwide Express, Federal Express and United Parcel Service. Forms of Payments: One can pay the Internal Revenue Service through credit cards, debit cards, charge cards, bank check or money order. If you file your return electronically you may be able to make your payment electronically. Which Records To Keep Keep records of income (such as receipts), deductions (for example, canceled checks) and credits shown on the tax return, as well as any worksheets used to figure them, until the statute of limitations runs out for that return, usually three years from the date the return was due or filed, or two years from the date the tax was paid, whichever is later. However, it is recommended that all records be kept for about six years. Some records should be kept even longer. For example, keep property records (your home, stocks) as long as they are needed to figure the basis of property. Change of Address: If an individual has changed his or her address from the one listed on that person’s last tax return, IRS Form 8822 should be filled out and filed with the agency. Death of a Taxpayer: If a taxpayer died before filing a required return for 2012, the taxpayer’s personal representative (and spouse, in the case of a joint return) must file and sign the return for that person. A personal representative can be an executor, administrator or anyone who is in charge of the taxpayer’s property. Which Income To Report In addition to wages, salaries, tips, unemployment compensation, capital gains, dividend payments and other income listed on the federal tax return, the following kinds of income must be reported: n Jones Act settlements for lost wages. n Amounts received in place of wages from accident and health plans (including sick pay and disability pensions) if employer paid for the policy. n Life insurance proceeds from a policy cashed in if the proceeds are more than the premium paid. n Canceled debts. n State income tax refunds. n Rents. n Repayments. n Royalties. n Unemployment benefits. n Profits from corporations, partnerships, estates and trusts. n Endowments. n Original Issue Discount. n Distributions from self-employed plans. n Bartering income (fair-market value of goods or services received in return for services). n Tier 2 and supplemental annuities under the Railroad Retirement Act. n Lump-sum distributions. n Gains from the sale or exchange (including barter) of real estate, securities, coins, gold, silver, gems or other property (capital gains). n Accumulation distributions from trusts. n Prizes and awards (contests, raffles, lottery and gambling winnings). n Earned income from sources outside the United States. n Director’s fees. n Fees received as an executor or administrator of an estate. n Embezzled or other illegal income. Which Income Need Not Be Reported The following kinds of income do not need to be reported on the federal tax return: n Benefits from government welfare programs. n Jones Act settlements for injuries, pain, suffering, and medical costs. n Maintenance and Cure. n Workers’ compensation benefits, insurance, damages, etc. for injury or sickness. n Disability retirement payments (and other benefits) paid by the Veterans’ Administration. n Child support. n Gifts, money or other property inherited or willed. n Dividends on veterans’ life insurance. n Life insurance proceeds received because of a person’s death. n Amounts received from insurance because of loss of the use of a home due to fire or other casualty to the extent the amounts were more than the cost of normal expenses while living in the home. n Certain amounts received as a scholarship. Filing An Extension Taxpayers can get an automatic six-month extension if, no later than April 15, 2013, Form 4868 will be filed with the IRS. It is important to remember that a six-month extension to file does not extend the time to pay the taxes. Form 4868, when sent in, must be accompanied by all tax monies due to the U.S. government. Where Is My Refund? If taxpayers have not received a refund check within 28 days from the original IRS mailing date, information can be accessed through the website at www.irs.gov. To get the refund status, taxpayers will need to provide the information from their tax returns. You should know your Social Security number (or IRS Individual Taxpayer Identification Number), Filing Status (Single, Married Filing Joint Return, Married Filing Separate Return, Head of Household, or Qualifying Widow(er)) and the refund amount. It is important to enter the refund amount exactly as it is shown on your return. Why Seafarers Must Pay State Income Tax Federal law prohibits employers from withholding state and local taxes from the wages of mariners working aboard U.S.-flag ships. Specifically, the law [46 USCA 11108(11)] provides that “no part of the wages due or accruing to a master, officer or any other seaman who is a member of the crew on a vessel engaged in the foreign, coastwise, intercoastal, interstate or non-contiguous trade shall be with- Away At Tax Time Should Seafarers find themselves overseas and seeking IRS forms or assistance, U.S. embassies and consulates are equipped to provide some taxpayer-related services. At a minimum, IRS forms are available at all U.S. embassies and consulates located in: Berlin, Germany; Caracas, Venezuela; London, England; Mexico City, Mexico; Nassau, Bahamas; Ottawa, Canada; Paris, France; Riyadh, Saudi Arabia; Rome, Italy; Sao Paulo, Brazil; Sydney, Australia; and Tokyo, Japan. held pursuant to the provisions of the tax laws of any state, territory, possession or commonwealth, or a subdivision of any of them, but nothing in this section shall prohibit any such withholding of the wages of any seaman who is employed in the coastwise trade between ports in the same state if such withholding is pursuant to a voluntary agreement between such seaman and his employer.” The law, however, does not exempt seamen from paying state and local taxes. Mariners, just like any other citizens of any given state, must meet their obligations to the government of the area in which they live. Each state has a set of criteria to determine whether an individual is a resident of that state. A seaman should check with a state tax office if he or she is unsure about residency status. For example, in California during the early 1970s, a case before the California State Board of Equalization stated that a merchant seaman—despite the fact that he was on a ship for 210 days of the year—was a resident of the state for tax purposes. The board took into consideration the fact that the seaman owned a home in California and maintained a bank account in a California-based bank. Additionally, each state has established conditions under which non-residents of that state must pay a portion of state tax if such an individual earned income from a source based in that state. Many states allow a credit in the amount an individual must pay the state if that person has already paid taxes in another state. In 2000, President Clinton signed into law the bipartisan Transportation Worker Tax Fairness Act, a measure aimed at providing “equitable treatment with respect to state and local income taxes for certain individuals who perform duties on vessels.” The law, which took effect Nov. 9, 2000, stipulates that pilots and other mariners “who perform regularly assigned duties while engaged as a master, officer or crewman on a vessel operating on the navigable waters of more than one state” shall be subject to state income tax only in his or her residential state. If any questions arise regarding residency and state tax issues, mariners should telephone the taxpayer assistance office in the state in which they reside. Where To Get Information General Information: 1-800-829-1040 may be called for general information between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. your local time. Publications: Call 1-800-829-3676 to order current and prior year forms, instructions and publications. Walk-In Help: IRS representatives are available in many IRS offices around the country to help with tax questions that cannot be answered easily by telephone. To find the location of an IRS office, look in the phone book under “United States Government, Internal Revenue Service.” Telephone Help: The IRS is prepared to answer questions by phone. Through the agency’s taxpayer information service, publications covering all aspects of tax-filing can be ordered. The federal Tele-Tax system has recorded tax information covering about 150 topics. 1-800-8294477 is the IRS’s automated Tele-Tax system number. When calling from a touch tone phone, the number “9” will repeat the topic and the number “2” will cancel the topic. To listen to a directory of topics after the introductory message finishes, dial 123. You can also check the status of your refund. This telephone service is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Personal Computer: Access the IRS’s Internet website at www.irs.gov to: download forms, instructions and publications; see answers to frequently asked tax questions; search publications online by topic or keyword; figure your withholding allowances using their W-4 calculator; check the status of your refund; send the IRS comments or requests for help via email; and sign up to receive local and national tax news by email. Send IRS Written Questions: Written questions regarding the tax returns can be sent directly to an IRS District Director (listed on the tax form). Include a Social Security number with the letter. Seafarers LOG 13 1/24/2013 5:39:19 PM �Assorted Changes Greet Filers During 2012 Tax Season Continued from Page 12 pay the beneficiary’s postsecondary education expenses. Traditional IRAs - For 2012, the contribution limit to a traditional IRA is the lesser of $5,000 (increased to $6,000 for taxpayers age 50 or older at the end of 2012) or your compensation. For the deduction, the Modified Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) phase-out range in 2012 is $58,000-$68,000 for single, head of household, $92,000-$112,000 for married couples filing jointly or qualifying widow(er), and less than $10,000 for married individuals filing separate returns when a taxpayer is covered by an employer’s retirement plan at any time during the year. Roth IRAs - The maximum total yearly contribution that can be made by an individual to a Roth IRA is the lesser of $5,000 (increased to $6,000 for taxpayers age 50 or older at the end of 2012) or your compensation. Roth IRAs are subject to income limits. The maximum yearly contribution is phased out for single and head of household taxpayers with an Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) between $110,000 and $125,000, for joint filers and qualifying widow(er) with an AGI between $173,000 and $183,000, and married filing separate filers with an AGI between $0 an $10,000. Although the contributions are not deductible, the distributions may be tax-free depending on when and why they are made. Roth IRA Conversions - If you converted part or all of an IRA to a Roth IRA in 2010 and did not elect to report the taxable amount on your 2010 return you generally must report half of it on your 2011 return and the rest on your 2012 return. Special Charitable Contributions for Certain IRA Owners - This provision, now available through the end of 2013, offers older owners of individual retirement accounts (IRAs) a different way to give to charity. A 2012 contribution can be made through January 31, 2013 and does not need to be made from an IRA trustee. An IRA owner age 70½ or over can directly transfer, tax-free, up to $100,000 per year to eligible charities. Known as a qualified charitable distribution (QCD), this option is available for distributions from IRAs, regardless of whether the owners itemize their deductions. Distributions from employer-sponsored retirement plans, including SIMPLE IRAs and simplified employee pension (SEP) plans, are not eligible to be treated as a qualified charitable distribution. To qualify, the funds must be contributed directly by the IRA trustee to an eligible charity. Amounts so transferred are not taxable and no deduction is available for the transfer. Not all charities are eligible. For example, donor-advised funds and supporting organizations are not eligible recipients. Remember to check eligibility of the charity before requesting a QCD. All QCDs from an IRA to eligible charities are counted in determining whether the owner has met the IRA’s required minimum distribution. Where individuals have made nondeduct- April 15 Marks Official Deadline for 2013 SHPB Scholarship Applications The Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan (SHBP) is offering scholarship opportunities to Seafarers and dependents who are interested in furthering their education but need financial assistance. The SHBP each year offers scholarships to qualified Seafarers and dependents who are hoping to continue their education. Designed to ease the financial challenges associated with college and vocational studies, the 2013 SHBP Scholarship Program will offer eight awards totaling $132,000. Three scholarships will be designated for Seafarers and five will be targeted for spouses and dependents. One of the endowments reserved for Seafarers totals $20,000 and is intended to help defray the costs associated with attending a four-year, college-level course of study. The remaining two are in the amount of $6,000 each and are designed as two-year awards for study at a postsecondary vocational school or community college. Each 14 Seafarers LOG 15042_February_LOG.indd 14 ible contributions to their traditional IRAs, a special rule treats QCD amounts as coming first from taxable funds, instead of proportionately from taxable and nontaxable funds, as would be the case with regular distributions. Foreign Financial Assets - If you had foreign financial assets in 2012, you may have to file Form 8938 with your return. Divorced or Separated Parents - A custodial parent who revoked their previous release of a claim to a child’s exemption must include a copy of the revocation with their return. Repayment of First-time Homebuyer Credit - If you have to repay the credit, you may be able to do so without attaching Form 5405. Mortgage Insurance Premiums - Mortgage insurance premiums for qualified mortgage insurance on debt to acquire, construct, or improve a first or second residence can potentially be treated as deductible qualified residence interest. The American Taxpayer Relief Act of 2012 extends this provision through December 31, 2013. The provision originally expired after 2011. If your AGI exceeds $100,000 ($50,000 if married filing separate) your deduction may be reduced or eliminated. Nonbusiness Energy Property Credit This credit is available for eligible property placed in service in 2012. The credit has a lifetime limit of $500, of which only $200 may be used for windows. This credit still consists of qualified energy efficiency improvements and residential energy property costs. Subject to the lifetime limits, only 10% of qualified energy efficiency improvements are allowed. Subject to the lifetime limits, the residential energy property costs are limited to $ 300 for energy-efficient building property, $150 for any qualified natural gas, propane, or oil furnace or hot water boiler, and $50 for any advanced main air circulating fan. Residential Energy Efficient Property Credit – This credit remains unchanged from 2011 and equals 30 percent of what a homeowner spends on qualifying property such as solar electric systems, solar hot water heaters, geothermal heat pumps, wind turbines, and fuel cell property. Generally, labor costs are included when calculating this credit.  Also, no cap exists on the amount of credit available except in the case of fuel cell property, which is $500 for each one half kilowatt of capacity. Eligible homeowners can claim both Energy Property and Energy Efficient Property Credit when they file their 2012 federal income tax return. Standard mileage rates - The standard mileage rates for 2012 remained at 55.5 cents per mile for business miles driven and were reduced to 23.0 cents per mile for medical or moving expenses. The rate for providing services for a charity is set by statute and equals 14 cents per mile. For 2013, the rates have increased to 56.5 cents per mile for business miles driven and 24.0 cents per mile for medical or moving expenses. Deduction for corrosive drywall - You may be able to claim a casualty loss deduction for amounts you paid to repair damage to your home and household appliances that resulted from corrosive drywall installed in homes between 2001 and 2009. The deduction is limited if you have a pending claim for reimbursement (or intend to pursue reimbursement) through property insurance, litigation, or other means. Personal Casualty & Theft Loss - This loss remains unchanged from 2011. The loss is limited to the excess of the loss over $100. The 10% of AGI limit still applies. Foreign Earned Income Exclusion - For tax year 2012, the maximum foreign earned income exclusion amount is $95,100. This amount is up $2,200 from tax year 2011. The Alternative Minimum Tax (AMT) Exemption – AMT exemptions have been permanently extended and indexed for inflation. Exemption amounts help prevent some middle income earners from being subject to the AMT, and help keep any AMT adjustments less than they otherwise might have been. For tax year 2012, the alternative minimum tax exemption increases to the following levels: n $78,750 for married couples filing a joint return and qualifying widows and widowers, up from $74,450 in 2011. n $39,375 for married persons filing separately, up from $37,225. n $50,600 for singles and heads of household, up from $48,450. The act further helps individual taxpayers facing potential AMT by allowing individuals to offset their regular and AMT liability with nonrefundable personal tax credits for the year. Tax Rates for 2013 - President Bush Era “tax rates” are made permanent with a new 39.6% bracket (for single individuals at $400,000, head of household at $425,000, married filing jointly at $450,000 and married filing separately at $225,000). Trusts and estates will hit the 39.6% bracket at $11,950. The rate for capital gains and dividends will be 20% if the income is in excess of the threshold amount: n $400,000 for single individuals n $425,000 for heads of household n $450,000 for married filing joint. Exclusion of Cancellation of Indebtedness on Principal Residence - Cancellation of indebtedness income is generally includible in income. However the 2010 Tax Relief Act excludes from income cancellation of debt on a principal residence of up to $2 million. The American Taxpayer Relief Act of 2012 extends the provision through 2013. Uniform Definition of a Qualifying Child - To be claimed as a qualifying child, the person must meet four criteria: n Relationship - the person must be your child, step child, adopted child, foster child, brother or sister, or a descendant of one of these (for example, a grandchild or nephew). n Residence - for more than half the year, the person must have the same residence as you do. n Age - the person must be under age 19 of the five scholarships for spouses and dependents is for $20,000. Now is an ideal time to begin the application process. The first step is to send for the 2012 SHBP Scholarship Program booklet. The package contains eligibility information, procedures for applying for the scholarships and an application form. To obtain a copy of this handout, simply fill out the form provided at the right and mail it to Scholarship Program, Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. All requests should include the requesting individual’s name, Social Security number (Seafarer sponsor’s Social Security number if a dependent), a complete mailing address including zip code and a telephone number. Requestors shoud indicate whether the booklet is for themselves or their dependents. The booklets also are availabe at SIU hiring halls. Once the scholarship booklet has been received, applicants should check the eligibility criteria to determine if they are eligible to participate. They should also begin collecting and assembling the remainder of the paperwork needed to submit with the full application, which must be received by April 15, 2013. A scholarship selection committee, consisting of a panel of professional educators, will examine the high school grades of all applicants as well as evaluate scores from their Scholastic Aptitude Tests (SAT) and American College Tests (ACT). Accordingly, arrangements should be made by applicants who have not done so to take these tests no later than this month. Doing at the end of the year, or under age 24 and be a full-time student for at least five months out of the year, or any age and totally and permanently disabled. n Support - the person did not provide more than half of his or her own support during the year. Consumer Alert - The IRS warns taxpayers to be on the alert for emails and phone calls they may receive which claim to come from the IRS or other federal agency and which mention their tax refund.  These are almost certainly a scam whose purpose is to obtain personal and financial information — such as name, Social Security number, bank account and credit card or even PIN numbers — from taxpayers which can be used by the scammers to commit identity theft. The emails and calls usually state that the IRS needs the information to process a refund or deposit it into the taxpayer’s bank account. The emails often contain links or attachments to what appears to be the IRS website or an IRS refund application form. However genuine in appearance, these phonies are designed to elicit the information the scammers are looking for. The IRS does not send taxpayers emails about their tax accounts. Also, the IRS does not request detailed personal information through email or ask taxpayers for the PIN numbers, passwords, or similar secret access information for their credit card, bank, or other financial accounts. If you receive an unsolicited e-mail claiming to be from the IRS, forward the message to: phishing@irs. gov. You may also report misuse of the IRS name, logo, forms or other IRS property to the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration toll-free at 1-800-366-4484 or TTY/TDD 1-800-877-8339. You can forward suspicious emails to the Federal Trade Commission at: spam@uce.gov or contact them at www.ftc.gov/idtheft or 1-877-IDTHEFT (1-877-438-4338).Visit IRS.gov and enter “identity theft” in the search box to learn more about identity theft and how to reduce your risk. If your tax records are affected by identity theft and you receive a notice from the IRS, respond right away to the name and phone number printed on the IRS notice or letter. If your tax records are not currently affected by identity theft but you think you are at risk due to a lost or stolen purse or wallet, questionable credit card activity or credit report, etc., contact the IRS Identity Protection Specialized Unit at 1-800-908-4490 or submit Form 14039. For more information, see Publication 4535, Identity Theft Prevention and Victim Assistance. Victims of identity theft who are experiencing economic harm or a systemic problem, or are seeking help in resolving tax problems that have not been resolved through normal channels, may be eligible for Taxpayer Advocate Service (TAS) assistance. You can reach TAS by calling the National Taxpayer Advocate helpline toll-free case intake line at 1-877-777-4778 or TTY/TDD 1-800-8294059. so will virtually assure that the results reach the evaluation committee in time for review. Seafarers and dependents who previously applied for the scholarship program and were not selected are encouraged to apply again this year, provided they still meet the eligibility requirements. Please send me the 2013 SHBP Scholarship Program Booklet which contains eligibility information, procedures for applying and a copy of the application form. Name..................................................................................................................................... Street Address...................................................................................................................... City, State, Zip Code........................................................................................................... Telephone Number ( ) .................................................................................................. This application is for: Mail this completed form to: o Self o Dependent Scholarship Program Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 February 2013 1/24/2013 5:39:20 PM �3 NMC Announces Updated Mariner Credential Forms The U.S. Coast Guard’s National Maritime Center issued the following communication on Jan. 18. To access the bulletin on the NMC website (in PDF format), go to: http://www.uscg.mil/nmc/ announcements/pdfs/form_approval_01_17_13.pdf Updated Mariner Credentialing Program (MCP) Forms On Jan. 4, 2013, the Office of Management and Budget approved the new version of the Coast Guard forms used to apply for a Merchant Mariner Credential: n 719B Application n 719K Medical Evaluation n 719KE Evaluation of Fitness for Entry Level Ratings n 719S Small Vessel Sea Service n 719P Periodic Drug Testing The data collected on the updated forms is nearly identical to the previous series of forms; however, several of these forms have undergone significant format revisions. The new expiration date of these forms is Jan. 31, 2016. Implementation of these forms will commence on or about Jan. 28, 2013. The Coast Guard will not stock the updated CG719 series forms in paper format. These forms will be available electronically in a PDF fill-able format at the National Maritime Center’s websitehttp://www.uscg.mil/nmc/. The Coast Guard has authorized a transition period that will provide mariners the flexibility to apply for a credential using the old and/or new forms as everyone adapts to the new formats. The table below outlines the implementation policy for the new versions of the forms. Form -- Implementation Policy CG-719B -- Applications dated after April 30, 2013 must be on the new form. CG-719K -- Physicals signed by a physician after April 30, 2013 must be on the new form. CG-719KE -- Physicals signed by a physician after April 30, 2013 must be on the new form. CG-719P -- Drug tests collected and submitted after April 30, 2013 must be on the new form. CG-719S -- Small Vessel Sea Service commenced after April 30, 2013 must be on the new form. Mariners and other providers should contact the Customer Service Center at IASKNMC@uscg.mil or 888-IASKNMC (888427-5662) with any questions or feedback regarding new forms. March & April 2013 Membership Meetings Piney Point.............................................Monday: March 4, April 8 Algonac...................................................Friday: March 8, April 12 Baltimore............................................Thursday: March 7, April 11 Guam...............................................Thursday: March 21, April 25 Honolulu...............................................Friday: March 15, April 19 Houston...............................................Monday: March 11, April 15 Jacksonville.......................................Thursday: March 7, April 11 Joliet................................................Thursday: March 14, April 18 Mobile..........................................Wednesday: March 13, April 17 New Orleans...........................................Tuesday: March 12, April 16 New York.......................................Tuesday: March 5, April 9 Norfolk...............................................Thursday: March 7, April 11 Oakland...........................................Thursday: March 14, April 18 Philadelphia...................................Wednesday: March 6, April 10 Port Everglades................................Thursday: March 14, April 18 San Juan..............................................Thursday: March 7, April 11 St. Louis.................................................Friday: March 15, April 19 Tacoma..................................................Friday: March 22, April 26 Wilmington..............................................Monday: March 18, April 22 Each port’s meeting starts at 10:30 a.m. Attention Seafarers: Contribute To The Seafarers Political Activities Donation SPAD February 2013 15042_February_LOG.indd 15 Dispatchers’ Report for Deep Sea December 16, 2012 - January 15, 2013 Port Total Registered All Groups A B C Total Shipped All Groups Trip A B C Reliefs Registered on Beach All Groups A B C Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS Deck Department 20 11 1 4 3 1 2 30 15 13 3 0 3 1 0 1 0 4 3 3 9 4 3 5 6 0 2 9 5 3 16 17 9 7 7 0 3 32 26 10 4 3 0 2 4 0 0 5 6 1 10 2 2 15 1 3 5 13 7 1 57 17 1 34 10 1 17 94 23 5 29 17 1 26 21 1 15 59 30 1 8 4 1 0 0 0 0 8 11 2 15 4 1 1 1 0 1 27 6 2 13 3 0 10 4 0 4 25 4 3 49 17 3 29 12 0 12 92 22 10 18 16 4 10 10 1 8 33 38 9 20 5 2 13 5 1 8 40 13 2 9 5 1 5 4 0 4 7 5 0 0 4 0 1 0 0 0 1 6 0 11 9 1 2 1 1 1 19 16 2 55 17 1 35 13 1 26 80 27 6 7 4 0 3 2 0 0 10 4 2 49 22 3 19 14 1 16 83 37 2 402 181 37 222 118 12 124 671 304 67 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS Engine Department 2 4 0 0 1 0 0 5 8 0 2 0 2 0 1 0 0 2 4 2 5 5 3 2 4 1 1 5 8 3 8 4 1 1 5 1 3 17 8 2 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 3 0 1 5 5 0 7 3 0 2 18 4 3 25 6 3 13 3 0 3 28 17 3 35 28 3 16 18 1 10 47 32 5 4 3 0 4 2 0 1 4 6 0 7 3 0 2 1 0 1 13 6 1 5 3 0 2 3 0 2 10 2 0 19 13 3 12 3 2 3 26 18 3 14 14 0 8 8 1 9 28 31 7 11 4 2 7 3 0 3 18 12 3 3 5 1 1 3 0 2 6 5 1 1 2 0 1 2 0 1 2 0 0 2 6 0 2 2 0 0 6 9 0 18 10 1 11 8 0 5 29 16 2 0 2 3 1 0 0 0 3 4 3 12 12 2 4 11 1 5 21 30 4 180 129 24 94 81 7 51 291 220 43 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS Steward Department 3 4 1 1 0 0 0 4 5 1 0 1 0 0 1 0 0 0 2 0 3 0 0 3 3 0 2 4 3 0 9 1 4 7 2 0 3 18 2 4 3 0 0 0 0 0 0 5 2 0 12 1 0 10 3 0 4 26 2 0 19 10 1 14 4 0 7 28 12 1 15 13 0 11 7 0 7 30 13 1 1 3 1 0 1 0 0 2 3 1 6 4 2 2 2 3 2 11 2 1 9 1 0 6 0 1 3 11 2 0 14 7 0 8 1 0 8 30 14 0 8 12 3 5 4 2 2 20 17 3 11 3 4 15 1 1 6 21 5 3 4 0 0 2 0 0 0 5 0 0 3 3 0 1 1 0 0 7 3 0 4 2 0 2 2 0 0 4 3 1 17 5 1 19 4 1 8 31 3 0 1 1 0 1 1 0 1 2 4 0 27 4 0 16 1 0 6 51 5 1 169 75 17 123 38 8 59 310 102 17 Entry Department Algonac 3 15 9 1 1 3 2 3 17 17 Anchorage 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 2 2 Baltimore 1 1 4 1 2 1 2 0 1 3 Fort Lauderdale 1 6 2 1 4 0 0 1 11 8 Guam 0 0 1 0 2 0 0 0 3 1 Honolulu 4 3 7 2 5 4 1 7 10 21 Houston 3 9 2 2 6 0 2 4 21 6 Jacksonville 1 12 12 1 7 2 0 2 21 20 Joliet 0 2 1 0 0 0 0 0 2 3 Mobile 1 1 1 2 1 0 1 1 5 2 New Orleans 0 2 2 1 2 0 0 3 3 5 New York 9 27 17 5 14 4 1 16 49 28 Norfolk 1 17 13 1 6 5 0 1 32 53 Oakland 3 6 7 1 10 3 1 7 21 15 Philadelphia 0 2 3 0 0 1 0 0 2 4 Piney Point 0 2 3 0 0 1 1 0 2 3 Puerto Rico 3 3 1 0 0 1 0 4 2 1 Tacoma 7 9 1 5 11 1 3 8 16 6 St. Louis 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 Wilmington 5 14 6 3 9 5 5 8 33 29 TOTALS 42 131 92 26 82 31 19 65 253 227 GRAND TOTAL: 793 516 170 465 319 58 253 1,337 879 354 Seafarers LOG 15 1/24/2013 5:39:21 PM �Inquiring Seafarer Seafarers International Union Directory Michael Sacco, President Augustin Tellez, Executive Vice President David Heindel, Secretary-Treasurer George Tricker, Vice President Contracts Tom Orzechowski, Vice President Lakes and Inland Waters Dean Corgey, Vice President Gulf Coast Nicholas J. Marrone, Vice President West Coast Joseph T. Soresi, Vice President Atlantic Coast Kermett Mangram, Vice President Government Services HEADQUARTERS 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746 (301) 899-0675 ALGONAC 520 St. Clair River Dr., Algonac, MI 48001 (810) 794-4988 Editor’s note:This month’s question was answered by SIU members in Piney Point, Md. Question: What was your first experience at sea like? Richard Torres Chief Cook I’ll never forget it. I got sick, I turned green. I think I was Satchel Caffy AB When we headed out they put on the movie “The Perfect Storm” for me and we ended up going through a huge storm. I was scared and I was sick for a week. It was even worse than they told me it would be. I wanted to swim back to the shore. Now, though, it’s easy. GUAM P.O. Box 3328, Hagatna, Guam 96932 Cliffline Office Ctr. Bldg., Suite 103B 422 West O’Brien Dr., Hagatna, Guam 96910 (671) 477-1350 HONOLULU 606 Kalihi St., Honolulu, HI 96819 (808) 845-5222 HOUSTON 1221 Pierce St., Houston, TX 77002 (713) 659-5152 JACKSONVILLE 5100 Belfort Rd., Jacksonville, FL 32256 (904) 281-2622 JOLIET 10 East Clinton St., Joliet, IL 60432 (815) 723-8002 MOBILE 1640 Dauphin Island Pkwy, Mobile, AL 36605 (251) 478-0916 popping Dramamine like Tic Tacs. I wasn’t feeling nauseous, so I tried not to feel nauseous. You’re just sitting there watching the horizon disappear through the port holes. But I love it and that’s Ekedra Turner Chief Cook I was in Japan and there were a lot of familiar faces from the program who I knew, past the sea buoy it was all over – I got sick. I went to my room and tried to take care of myself. But I’ve enjoyed the work and I’ve liked it ever since, for 23 years. If you believe you can overcome it, you can. ANCHORAGE 721 Sesame St., #1C, Anchorage, AK 99503 (907) 561-4988 BALTIMORE 2315 Essex St., Baltimore, MD 21224 (410) 327-4900 forward to shipping out again. why I’m still here. David Simon Chief Cook I was in the Navy in Israel, so I had some experience. It was a good thing to know when you’re coming into the program. I didn’t really feel it (seasickness) too much. For me, it was more psychological. Bryan Mash Steward It was awesome, unbelievable. I was in Korea on an MSC ship so we were hauling a lot of weapons. I was thinking about all the fun I was having. I didn’t get sick – I had fished all my life and I was used to the water. I love it and I’m looking so that was a good thing. But it was a nauseous experience. I got sick, and they say once you get seasick you wish you were dead. I’m fine now, as long as I have my seasickness pills with me. Adele Messina Chief Cook My first time, it was very hard. I got very sick. But after a while you get used to it. It was just about getting used to the ship and being at sea. Walter Wise Chief Cook It was kind of scary for me. We were hauling natural gas so if lightning hits, you’re a goner. Once we got Pic-From-The-Past NEW ORLEANS 3911 Lapalco Blvd., Harvey, LA 70058 (504) 328-7545 NEW YORK 635 Fourth Ave., Brooklyn, NY 11232 (718) 499-6600 Government Services Division: (718) 499-6600 NORFOLK 115 Third St., Norfolk, VA 23510 (757) 622-1892 OAKLAND 1121 7th St., Oakland, CA 94607 (510) 444-2360 PHILADELPHIA 2604 S. 4 St., Philadelphia, PA 19148 (215) 336-3818 PINEY POINT P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674 (301) 994-0010 PORT EVERGLADES 1221 S. Andrews Ave., Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33316 (954) 522-7984 SANTURCE 1057 Fernandez Juncos Ave., Stop 16 Santurce, PR 00907 (787) 721-4033 ST. LOUIS/ALTON 4581 Gravois Ave., St. Louis, MO 63116 (314) 752-6500 TACOMA 3411 South Union Ave., Tacoma, WA 98409 (253) 272-7774 WILMINGTON 510 N. Broad Ave., Wilmington, CA 90744 (310) 549-4000 Aboard the LNG Aries in late 1977 or early 1978 are (from left) Chief Steward Guy De Baere, Steward Utility J. Delaney, Cook & Baker Robert Adam and John J. Goodnough, purchasing manager for the vessel’s operator (Energy Transportation). The Aries was the second American-built, American-crewed tanker in the U.S. merchant fleet. If anyone has a vintage union-related photograph he or she would like to share with other Seafarers LOG readers, please send it to the Seafarers LOG, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. Photographs will be returned, if so requested. High-resolution digital images may be sent to webmaster@seafarers.org 16 Seafarers LOG 15042_February_LOG.indd 16 February 2013 1/24/2013 5:39:26 PM �Welcome Ashore Each month, the Seafarers LOG pays tribute to the SIU members who have devoted their working lives to sailing aboard U.S.-flag vessels on the deep seas, inland waterways or Great Lakes. Listed below are brief biographical sketches of those members who recently retired from the union. The brothers and sisters of the SIU thank those members for a job well done and wish them happiness and good health in the days ahead. DEEP SEA JERRY DEVOE Brother Jerry Devoe, 67, joined the SIU in 2001 as the NMU merged into the Seafarers International Union. The deck department member’s most recent trip was aboard the Ocean Charger. Brother Devoe attended classes in 2001 at the union-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. He resides in his native Charleston, S.C. DOUGLAS HESTER Brother Douglas Hester, 66, signed on with the Seafarers in 1966. As a member of deck department, Brother Hester upgraded on two occasions at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. He initially worked on the Elizabeth. Brother Hester’s most recent trip was aboard the Santa Mercedes. He calls Vallejo, Calif., home. ALI HUSSEIN Brother Ali Hussein, 66, donned the SIU colors in 1989. His first voyage was aboard the Independence; his most recent was on the Consumer. Brother Hussein was a member of the deck department. He was born in Yemen but made his home in Coldwater, Mich. LAWRENCE KUNC Brother Lawrence Kunc, 60, joined the SIU ranks in 1971. His earliest trip was on the Sea Maine. Brother Kunc was born in Houston and sailed in the deck department. He enhanced his skills often at the Piney Point school. Brother Kunc was last employed aboard the Horizon Tiger. He settled in Sperry, Okla. JOSE MAGLALANG Brother Jose Maglalang, 66, became a union member in 1980 while in the port of Seattle. He first worked on the Sealand Commerce as a steward department member. Brother Maglalang took advantage of educational opportunities at the Piney Point school. His final vessel was the Overseas Anacortes. Brother Maglalang makes his home in Washington State. EDUARDO MORRE Brother Eduardo Morre, 67, began his SIU career in 1989. He initially shipped aboard the Independence. Brother Morre was born in Cebu, Philippines, and sailed in the deck department. In 2002 and 2004, he attended classes at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Morre most recently sailed on the Green Point. He calls Kapolei, Hawaii, home. February 2013 15042_February_LOG.indd 17 ZAID MUTHALA Brother Zaid Muthala, 56, joined the SIU in 2001 as the NMU merged into the Seafarers International Union. His most recent trip was aboard the Alaskan Explorer. Brother Muthala, a member of the deck department, upgraded 2002 at the SIU-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. He lives in Anaheim, Calif. MOHAMED NAGI Brother Mohamed Nagi, 69, joined the union in 1970. He originally sailed aboard the Halcyon Tiger as a member of the engine department. Brother Nagi last shipped on the Adventurer. He resides in Brooklyn, N.Y. SYLVIA NIEMI Sister Sylvia Niemi, 71, signed on with the SIU in 1990. She first sailed aboard the 1st. Lt. Jack Lummus. Sister Niemi enhanced her skills on three occasions at the Piney Point school. The Alaska native sailed as a member of the steward department. Sister Niemi last shipped on the 2nd Lt. John Paul Bobo. She lives in Seattle. member originally sailed on the Manhattan. Brother Ropp’s most recent vessel was the American Tern. He was born in the Philippines, and lives in Modesto, Calif. NICANOR SERENO Brother Nicanor Sereno, 71, started shipping with the union in 2000. He first sailed on the Independence. Brother Sereno worked in the steward department and upgraded often. He was born in Manila, Philippines, and most recently sailed aboard the Pacific Collector. Brother Sereno is a resident of Waipahu, Hawaii. Brother Emanuel Washington, 71, joined the SIU in 2001 as the NMU merged into the Seafarers International Union. The engine department member’s most recent trip was aboard the USNS Bowditch. Brother Washington attended classes in 2001 and 2003 at the union-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. He was born in New Orleans and now lives in Oakland, Calif. JAMES FERGUSON Brother James Ferguson, 67, HENRY PRYCE Brother Henry Pryce, 65, signed on with the union in 2002 while in Ft. Lauderdale, Fla. The Jamaica native primarily worked with GFC Crane Consultants Inc. Brother Pryce resides in Lauderhill, Fla. JOHN ROPP Brother John Ropp, 83, became an SIU member in 1978 while in San Francisco. The engine department Brother Henry Fromal, 67, was born in Pennsylvania. He became a Seafarer in 1975, originally shipping with Mariner Towing. Brother Fromal took advantage of educational opportunities at the Piney Point school. He sailed as a member of the engine department. Brother Fromal most recently worked aboard the American Marine Corporation vessel. He settled in Spring Hill, Fla. Brother Donnie Hennie, 62, signed on with the SIU in 1980. He primarily sailed in the deck department of vessels operated by Dravo Basic Materials Company. Brother Hennie resides in McKinney, Texas. JOE JOHNSON Brother Joe Johnson, 63, became a union member in 1986 while in Norfolk, Va. A native of North Carolina, Brother Johnson enhanced his seafaring abilities at the maritime training center in Piney Point. The engine department member mainly sailed with Allied Transportation Company. Brother Johnson makes his home in Norfolk. WILLIAM MEUSER Brother William Meuser, 62, began sailing with the SIU in 1977. He initially sailed with Crowley Puerto Rico Services. Brother Meuser worked in the engine department. He was last employed on a Crowley Towing & Transportation vessel. Brother Meuser is a resident of St. Augustine, Fla. GUY PRUITT Brother Guy Pruitt, 62, joined the union in 1979. His earliest trip to sea was on a Steuart Transportation Company vessel. Brother Pruitt upgraded frequently at the Paul Hall Center. He was born in Virginia. Brother Pruitt’s most recent trip was with Express Marine Inc. He now calls Onancock, Va., home. LAWRENCE ROWE Brother Lawrence Rowe, 66, was born in Virginia. He started shipping with the SIU in 1973. Brother Rowe worked with Interstate Oil Transport Company for the duration of his career. He lives in Kilmarnock, Va. EDWARD WHITFIELD Brother Edward Whitfield, 71, signed on with the union in 1997 while in the port of New York. He attended classes on two occasions at the Piney Point school. Brother Whitfield primarily sailed on Penn Maritime Inc. vessels. He calls Hobucken, N.C., home. This Month In SIU History REBECCA POULIOT Sister Rebecca Pouliot, 65, began sailing with the union in 1986. She first worked aboard the 1st. Lt. Jack Lummus. Sister Pouliot was born in Minnesota. She sailed in the steward department, most recently on the Richard G. Mathieson. On numerous occasions, Sister Pouliot completed courses at the Paul Hall Center. She is a resident of Hilo, Hawaii. HENRY FROMAL DONNIE HENNIE EMANUEL WASHINGTON INLAND donned the SIU colors in 1988. He worked with Crowley Towing & Transportation of Jacksonville for the duration of his career. Brother Ferguson was a deck department member. He calls Highland, Texas, home. Editor’s note: The following items are reprinted from previous editions of the Seafarers LOG. 1946 The first concrete step toward the establishment of an SIU upgrading school for Seafarers’ membership was taken last Wednesday night when coastwise branch meetings voted overwhelmingly for a resolution that authorized the election of a committee to investigate the possibility and advisability of establishing such a school in the Port of New Orleans. There has always been great membership sentiment in favor of such a step, as informal polls, resolutions from ships meetings and letters to the Seafarers LOG have shown. The resolution, submitted by Brothers Paul Hall, C.J. Buck Stephens and J. Steely White, pointed out that there is a great shortage of men in qualified ratings, while there is an over-abundance of unqualified ratings in practically all ports. 1949 In recent years members of forward-looking trade unions, well established in their industries, have been driving toward a wider form of economic security than wages and conditions alone can provide. This security is achieved through broad and ingenious insurance program yielding to medical and surgical care, sick benefits, vacation benefits and in many instances old-age pensions for union members. Recognizing the potential of such welfare plans, SIU members at the headquarters meeting in New York instructed union officials to make a thorough study of such plans and to demand a welfare plan at the next meeting between the union’s nego- tiation committee and shipowners. 1957 Harry Lundeberg, the founder of the Seafarers International Union and the leading figure in maritime for more than two decades, died of a heart attack in Peninsula Hospital. Death came to the 56-year-old president of the SIUNA just a few days before his expected discharge from the hospital. He had suffered a mild heart seizure Jan. 20. His passing cut short a militant, crusading career on behalf of American seamen which reached back into the early 1930s. It was Lundeberg who led the revival of maritime unions in the United States, beginning with the bitter and tumultuous 1934 maritime strike. From there he pressed ahead relentlessly battling shipowners, the government and the maritime section of the Communist Party on behalf of the men he represented. 1960 A wage review establishing increased monthly base pay plus higher hourly overtime and penalty rates for the SIU-contracted dry cargo fleet was completed by the union last week. The memorandum of understanding signed by the SIU with operators provides pay boosts ranging generally from $4.24 monthly for steward department entry ratings to $30.49 monthly for most bosuns and stewards. A few specialized ratings drew higher amounts. Overtime scales were boosted to $2.33 hourly for the top ratings, $2.28 for the middle bracket and to $1.78 for entry ratings. In addition to upping base wages, the union negotiators won a 28-cent daily hike in shipowner contributions to the SIU vacations plan. Seafarers LOG 17 1/24/2013 5:39:29 PM �Final Departures DEEP SEA MIKE ANDRUCOVICI Brother Mike Andrucovici, 59, passed away August 3. He began sailing with the SIU during the 2001 merger with the NMU. Brother Andrucovici sailed in all three departments. He was born in Romania but called Brooklyn, N.Y., home. Brother Andrucovici’s final ship was the Maersk Iowa. WILLIAM BEADLES Pensioner William Beadles, 90, died July 10. Brother Beadles signed on with the union in 1953 while in New York. His earliest trip to sea was on the Rosario. Brother Beadles was born in Kentucky. He last shipped with Michigan Tankers as a member of the deck department. Brother Beadles retired in 1977 and lived in St. Louis. ROBERT CALDWELL Pensioner Robert Caldwell, 65, passed away June 28. Brother Caldwell was born in Corpus Christi, Texas. The engine department member joined the Seafarers in 1967. Brother Caldwell first sailed on the Marore. His final voyage was aboard the Cape Wrath. Brother Caldwell went on pension in 2003 and continued to make his home in Texas. LILLIAN DELANEY Pensioner Lillian Delaney, 90, died July 13. Sister Delaney became an SIU member in 1972 while in the port of San Francisco. She was born in Pennsylvania and worked in the steward department. Sister Delaney initially sailed on the Santa Mariana. Her last ship was the Innovator. Sister Delaney started collecting her retirement compensation in 1993. She settled in San Antonio, Texas. JACOB GROBY Pensioner Jacob Groby, 83, passed away July 14. Brother Groby first donned the SIU colors in 1951. The deck department member was born in Georgia. Brother Groby’s first trip was aboard the Mary Adams. His final ship was the Overseas Valdez. Brother Groby became a pensioner in 1994. He was a resident of Livingston, Texas. EDWARD MARTINEZ Brother Edward Martinez, 45, died July 4. He started shipping with the union in 2011. Brother Martinez worked aboard the 2nd Lt. John Paul Bobo for the duration of his career. He was born in Nicaragua and sailed in the deck department. Brother Martinez resided in Spokane, Wash. 18 Seafarers LOG 15042_February_LOG.indd 18 NICHOLAS NAGY JOSEPH WILLIAMS Pensioner Nicholas Nagy, 71, died August 5. Brother Nagy joined the joined the union in 1965. He originally shipped on an American Steamship Company vessel. Brother Nagy was born in Michigan and worked in the deck department. His final ship was the Enterprise. Brother Nagy went on pension in 1998. He made his home in Temecula, Calif. Pensioner Joseph Williams, 88, died May 31. Brother Williams was born in Panama. He joined the union in 1959, initially shipping on the Santa Mariana. Brother Williams worked in the steward department. His last voyage was aboard the Innovator. Brother Williams became a pensioner in 2002 and settled in Oakland, Calif. RAYMOND PRICE Brother Raymond Price, 51, passed away July 4. He was born in Jersey City, N.J. Brother Price became a Seafarer in 1980. His first vessel was the Overseas Chicago; his last; the Independence. Brother Price was a steward department member. He lived in Port St. Lucie, Fla. LAVERNE QUANTZ Pensioner Laverne Quantz, 83, died July 13. Brother Quantz began sailing with the union in 1965. He was initially employed with Hudson Waterways Corporation. Brother Quantz was born in Washington State. The deck department member’s final trip was with Michigan Tankers Inc. Brother Quantz started receiving his pension in 1993 and called Lacey, Wash., home. HARUYUKI SABURDMARU Pensioner Haruyuki Saburdmaru, 85, passed away August 9. Brother Saburdmaru was a California native. He joined the SIU in 1980. Brother Saburdmaru originally worked aboard Cove Ship Management’s Oceanic Independence. He shipped in the steward department. Prior to his retirement in 1994, he sailed on the Independence. Brother Saburdmaru was a resident of Daly City, Calif. JAMES WADE Pensioner James Wade, 78, passed away July 15. Brother Wade signed on with the SIU in 1956 while in the port of New York. His first ship was operated by Ellis Towing & Transportation. Brother Wade was a Michigan native and sailed in the deck department. His final trip was aboard the Innovator. Brother Wade went on pension in 1997 and resided in Pico Rivera, Calif. INLAND JAMES CLARK Pensioner James Clark, 90, passed away July 26. Brother Clark started shipping with the SIU in 1961. His earliest trip was with Meyle Towing Company. Brother Clark was born in Philadelphia. His final trip was on a McAllister Towing of Philadelphia vessel. He went on pension in 1987 and continued to reside in Pennsylvania. JIMMIE CRABTREE Pensioner Jimmie Crabtree, 68, died August 2. Brother Crabtree joined the union in 1977, and his first boats included ones operated by American Barge Lines. Brother Crabtree was a California native. His last trip was with OSG Ship Management. Brother Crabtree worked in both the deck and steward departments. He retired in 1998 and was a resident of Tremonton, Utah. JOE DANIELS Pensioner Joe Daniels, 87, passed away August 10. Brother Daniels was born in North Carolina. He joined the SIU in 1974 and sailed with Steuart Transportation. Brother Daniels was last employed aboard an Interstate Oil Transportation Company vessel. He became a pensioner in 1987. He lived in Wanchese, N.C. EDWARD DWYER Pensioner Edward Dwyer, 81, died July 21. Brother Dwyer first donned the SIU colors in 1958 while in New York. His first voyage was aboard the Sampan Knot. Brother Dwyer, a New York native, was a member of the deck department. His final trip was with Crowley Towing and Transportation of Jacksonville. Brother Dwyer went on pension in 1996 and made his home in Forest Hills, N.Y. HOWARD IRELAND Pensioner Howard Ireland, 72, passed away July 23. Brother Ireland began sailing with the union in 1974 while in the port of Philadelphia. He was primarily employed aboard Interstate Oil Transportation Company vessels. Brother Ireland was born in Camden, N.J. The deck department member started collecting his retirement pay in 2002. Brother Ireland settled in Pennsylvania. American Towing & Transportation. He became a pensioner in 2008 and resided in Villas, N.J. GREAT LAKES JACK ALLEN Brother Willie Jones, 51, died July 17. He became an SIU member in 2002. Brother Jones first sailed with Penn Maritime Inc. as a member of the deck department. His most recent trip was on the Resolve. Brother Jones was born in New Orleans and lived in Slidell, La. Pensioner Jack Allen, 80, passed away June 28. Brother Allen began sailing with the SIU in 1958. He was originally employed with Tomlinson Fleet Corporation as a member of the deck department. Brother Allen was born in Michigan. His last trip was on a Great Lakes Towing vessel. Brother Allen started receiving his pension in 1991. He was a resident of St. Clair, Mich. AUGUST JACKSON MICHAEL BAKOS WILLIE JONES Brother August Jackson, 63, passed away April 13. He signed on with the SIU in 1966. Brother Jackson’s earliest trip was aboard the Overseas Ulla. The engine department member last sailed on the Delta Queen. He is a resident of New Orleans. MAXIMO LOPE Pensioner Maximo Lope, 89, died June 20. Brother Lope was born in the Philippines. He started sailing with the union in 1972. Brother Lope shipped with the Association of Maryland Pilots for the duration of his career. He became a pensioner in 1985 and called Norfolk, Va., home. CHARLES PEAVY Pensioner Charles Peavy, 70, passed away August 11. Brother Peavy first donned the SIU colors in 1965. He mainly worked with Dravo Basic Materials Company. Brother Peavy retired in 2004 and continued to reside in his native state of Alabama. HOBERT SNYDER Pensioner Hobert Snyder, 82, died August 10. Brother Snyder became a union member in 1961 while in Norfolk, Va. He worked aboard vessels operated by Moran Towing of Virginia. Brother Snyder went on pension in 1988 and settled in Chesapeake, Va. EUGENE WOTURSKI Pensioner Eugene Woturski, 66, passed away August 11. Brother Woturski started sailing with the union in 1966. He originally sailed on the Globe Carrier as a deck department member. Brother Woturski last worked with Pensioner Michael Bakos, 90, died June 9. Brother Bakos was a native of Pennsylvania. He started sailing with the union in 1948. Brother Bakos primarily worked aboard vessels operated by Great Lakes Associates. He shipped in the deck department. Brother Bakos became a pensioner in 1988 and called Smithfield, Pa., home. ROBERT HENSLEY Pensioner Robert Hensley, 84, passed away July 30. Brother Hensley became an SIU member in 1973. His first trip was with Great Lakes Associates. Brother Hensley was born in North Carolina and sailed in the deck department. Prior to his retirement in 1996, he sailed on the Steel T. Crapo. Brother Hensley lived in Marion, N.C. LESTER JACOBSON Pensioner Lester Jacobson, 79, died June 25. Brother Jacobson signed on with the union in 1969. His first ship was the American Seaocean; his last, the Kinsman Enterprise. Brother Jacobson sailed in the engine department. He went on pension in 1998 and made his home in Duluth, Minn. ROGER LORENZ Pensioner Roger Lorenz, 66, passed away June 22. Brother Lorenz began sailing with the SIU in 1978. He originally sailed with Pringle Transit Company. Brother Lorenz was a member of the deck department. Before retiring in 2010, he sailed on the Charles E. Wilson. Brother Lorenz was a resident of Painesdale, Mich. HERMAN WOLGAST Pensioner Herman Wolgast, 89, passed away June 30. Brother Wolgast was born in Michigan. He joined the union in 1960, initially shipping with American Steamship Company. Brother Wolgast sailed in the deck department. His final trip was on the St. Clair. Brother Wolgast became a pensioner in 1986 and resided in Alpena, Mich. February 2013 1/24/2013 5:39:32 PM �Digest of Shipboard Union Meetings The Seafarers LOG attempts to print as many digests of union shipboard minutes as possible. On occasion, because of space limitations, some will be omitted. Ships’ minutes first are reviewed by the union’s contract department. Those issues requiring attention or resolution are addressed by the union upon receipt of the ships’ minutes. The minutes are then forwarded to the Seafarers LOG for publication. CHARGER (Maersk Line, Limited), November 3 – Chairman Bradley Casey, Secretary Norman W. Cox, Educational Director Andrew J. Linares. Chairman gave big thumbs up to the steward department for a job well done and great meals. Secretary encouraged crew members to vote. Educational director informed crew that refrigerators for crew cabins are on the way. He advised mariners to upgrade at the union-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Correspondence was read from headquarters pertaining to rules for vacation time. HORIZON TRADER (Horizon Lines), November 14 – Chairman Issac Vega Mercado, Secretary Kevin M. Dougherty, Educational Tom M. Flynn, Deck Delegate Marcos Santos, Steward Delegate Michael Henry. Bosun went over ship’s itinerary and announced payoff on November 16 upon arrival in Elizabeth, N.J. He thanked crew for safely completing work after dry dock. Educational director reminded fellow members about importance of upgrading at Paul Hall Center in Piney Point and urged everyone to keep all paperwork and shipping documents up-to-date: clinic card, medical forms, TWIC, passport, etc. Treasurer reported $1,700 in ship’s fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Request was made to upgrade Internet service and put TV cables in each cabin. Steward department was thanked for good food. Next ports: Elizabeth, N.J., San Juan, P.R. and Jacksonville, Fla. LIBERTY EAGLE (Liberty Maritime), November 18 – Chairman Charlie J. Hill, Secretary Fausto D. Arando, Educational Director Mark K. Maduro, Steward Delegate Ambrose Gabriel. Chairman discussed emergency situation which took place in Djibouti, Africa; thanks to Paul Hall Center training there was a positive outcome. Secretary expressed gratitude to fellow shipmates for their help keeping ship clean. Treasurer stated $150 in ship’s fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Bosun requested radio communication on deck work areas. Steward department was thanked for excellent food and service during voyage. Next port: Houston. LIGHTNING (Maersk Line, Limited), November 25 – Chairman Shawn T. Evans, Secretary Terry L. Allen, Educational Director Daniel F. Dean, Deck Delegate David M. Fridstrom, Engine Delegate Joseph McCrosky. Chairman thanked Seafarers for a smooth trip. He reminded those departing vessel to leave February 2013 15042_February_LOG.indd 19 With Seafarers on the West Coast SIU VP Contracts George Tricker (third from left in group photo) and Port Agent Jeff Turkus met with members aboard the Sealand Intrepid the day after Christmas, in Los Angeles. Pictured from left to right aboard the vessel are QMED Oscar Garcia, SA Jennie Ricaido, Tricker, Recertified Bosun Abdulla Alwaseem, (seated) AB Patricio Libre, Recertified Steward Michael Kozak, GUDE Musa Quraish and AB Tomas Robinson. Recertified Bosun Abdulla Alwaseem AB Charles Herrera rooms clean and supplied with fresh linen. He asked for an update on anything being done to make up for lost hours due to new STCW-related guidelines on rest periods. Steward brought up food budget concerns. Educational director urged mariners to enhance skills at the Piney Point school. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew thanked steward department for great job during voyage. MAERSK MISSOURI (Maersk Line, Limited), November 18 – Chairman Oliver M. Balico, Secretary Billy Gigante, Educational Director Jerome D. Culbreth, Deck Delegate Dudley A. James, Engine Delegate Anatoli Vetsinov, Steward Delegate Saeed Alahmadi. Chairman reported good voyage and thanked crew for their hard work. Secretary asked mariners to leave cabins clean for reliefs. Educational director advised Seafarers to take advantage of SIU-affiliated school in Piney Point. He also urged crew to keep documents current and renew early so they won’t lose eligibility to sail. Treasurer reported $3,000 in ship’s fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Suggestion was made to clarify transportation procedures for apprentices. All hands expressed appreciation to steward department. Next ports: Elizabeth, N.J., Charleston, S.C., Norfolk, Va. and Newark, N.J. MAERSK VIRGINIA (Maersk Line, Limited), November 10 – Chairman Mohamed S. Ahmed, Secretary Hugh E. Wildermuth, Educational Director Donald M. Christian, Deck Delegate Mario Ordonez, Engine Delegate Ronald Westerfield, Steward Delegate Richard Jones. Chairman thanked members for support and help maintaining ship cleanliness. Secretary expressed his gratitude for teamwork aboard the vessel. Educational director suggested all mariners upgrade at Paul Hall Center. Treasurer noted $1,700 in ship’s fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Recommendation was made to increase vacation days and lower retirement requirements. Next port: Newark, N.J. MAREMAR (OSG Ship Management), November 4 – Chairman Jozef Ignaczak, Secretary Obencio M. Espinoza, Educational Director Edwin Feliciano, Deck Delegate Eddie Ebanks, Engine Delegate Flavio Suazo. Bosun reported payoff to take place upon arrival in Ashkelon, Israel. He urged all mariners to make sure all shipping documents were upto-date. Secretary asked crew leaving vessel to clean rooms, empty trash and leave keys for next members. Educational director suggested mariners take advantage of courses available at the maritime training center in Piney Point. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Recommendation was made to increase optical and dental benefits. Clarification requested about transportation procedures. NATIONAL GLORY (Crowley), November 24 – Chairman Timothy D. Koebel, Secretary Lonnie W. Jones, Educational Director Timothy A. Chestnut, Deck Delegate Bill Rackley, Engine Delegate Ronald Smith, Steward Delegate Orlando Suazo. Chairman talked about expected bitter weather and the necessity of proper gear. Mariners were urged to upgrade at unionaffiliated school in Piney Point, Md. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Suggestions were made regarding health and pension benefits. Steward department was thanked for sumptuous Thanksgiving meal. Steward expressed concerns about linen orders. RACER (Maersk Line, Limited), November 9 – Chairman Magdy Balat, Secretary Glenn Williams, Engine Delegate Jeffery Bull. Chairman discussed ship’s itinerary and reported another safe trip. Thanks to all crew for their efforts and fellowship. Departing mariners were asked to leave clean linen for reliefs. Secretary reminded crew members to turn in dirty laundry at the C deck locker room before departure. Educational director reminded fellow members about importance of upgrading at Paul Hall Center in Piney Point. Treasurer stated $1,852 in ship’s fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. New washing machine requested. OVERSEAS ANACORTES (OSG Ship Management), December 3 – Chairman Anton T. Sulic, Secretary Dana A. Paradise, Educational Director Melvin R. Ratcliff, Engine Delegate John Raquipiso. Chairman stressed importance of voting and also working together. Keep all business in house and report any problems to department head. Secretary asked crew to separate all cans, plastic and paper. Educational director advised seafarers to enhance skills at Piney Point school and make sure all paperwork is current. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Recommendation was made pertaining to dental plan. Steward department was thanked for great Thanksgiving meals and good food in general. Next ports: Richmond, Calif. and Long Beach, Calif. Seafarers LOG 19 1/24/2013 5:39:35 PM �Officials Release Annual Funding Notice For SIU Pacific District Pension Plan Introduction This notice, which federal law requires all pension plans to furnish on an annual basis, includes important information about the funding status of your pension plan (“the Plan”) and general information about the benefit payments guaranteed by the Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation (“PBGC”), a federal insurance agency. All traditional pension plans (called “defined benefit pension plans”) must provide this notice every year regardless of their funding status. This notice does not mean that the Plan is terminating. It is provided for informational purposes and you are not required to respond in any way. This notice is for the plan year beginning August 1, 2011 and ending July 31, 2012 (“Plan Year”). How Well-Funded Is Your Plan? Under federal law, the plan must report how well it is funded by using a measure called the “funded percentage.” This percentage is obtained by dividing the Plan’s assets by its liabilities on the Valuation Date for the plan year. In general, the higher the percentage, the better funded the plan. Your Plan’s funded percentage for the Plan Year and each of the two preceding plan years is set forth in the chart below, along with a statement of the value of the Plan’s assets and liabilities for the same period. 2011 2010 2009 August 1, 2011 August 1, 2010 August 1, 2009 Valuation Date Funded Percentage Over 100% Over 100% Over 100% $114,837,515 $119,122,143 $121,583,919 Value of Assets Value of Liabilities $93,787,206 $94,181,966 $90,207,505 Year-End Fair Market Value of Assets The asset values in the chart above are measured as of the Valuation Date for the plan year and are actuarial values. Because market values can fluctuate daily based on factors in the marketplace, such as changes in the stock market, pension law allows plans to use actuarial values that are designed to smooth out those fluctuations for funding purposes. The asset values below are market values and are measured as of the last day of the plan year, rather than as of the Valuation Date. Substituting the market value of assets for the actuarial value used in the above chart would show a clearer picture of a plan’s funded status as of the Valuation Date. The fair market value of the Plan’s assets as of the last day of the Plan Year and each of the two preceding plan years is shown in the following table. The value of the Plan assets shown as of July 31, 2011 is an estimate based on the most accurate unaudited financial information available at the time this notice was prepared. The final audited information on the Plan’s assets will be reported on the Plan’s 2011 annual report filed with the Department of Labor in May, 2013. July 31, 2012 $109,224,802 Fair Market Value of Assets July 31, 2011 $112,857,554 July 31, 2010 $114,954,984 Critical or Endangered Status Under federal pension law a plan generally will be considered to be in “endangered” status if, at the beginning of the plan year, the funded percentage of the plan is less than 80 percent or in “critical” status if the percentage is less than 65 percent (other factors may also apply). If a pension plan enters endangered status, the trustees of the plan are required to adopt a funding improvement plan. Similarly, if a pension plan enters critical status, the trustees of the plan are required to adopt a rehabilitation plan. Rehabilitation and funding improvement plans establish steps and benchmarks for pension plans to improve their funding status over a specified period of time. The Plan was not in endangered or critical status in the Plan Year. Participant Information The total number of participants in the Plan as of the Plan’s valuation date was 2,832. Of this number, 626 were active participants, 1,460 were retired or separated from service and receiving benefits, and 746 were retired or separated from service and entitled to future benefits. Funding and Investment Policies Every pension plan must have a procedure for establishing a funding policy to carry out plan objectives. A funding policy relates to the level of assets needed to pay for benefits promised under the plan currently and over the years. Plan benefits are funded by employer contributions and investment returns on those contributions. The shipping companies have not been required to make contributions to the Plan since August 1, 1993, and may resume making contributions in the future through collective bargaining or if necessary to satisfy the minimum funding standards of the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA) and the Internal Revenue Code. Since August 1, 1993, Plan benefits have been funded by the Plan’s investment income. The Plan’s funding policy is to continue to fund Plan benefits in this manner and satisfy the minimum funding standards of ERISA and the Internal Revenue Code. Once money is contributed to the Plan, the money is invested by plan officials called fiduciaries, who make specific investments in accordance with the Plan’s investment policy. Generally speaking, an investment policy is a written statement that provides the fiduciaries who are responsible for plan investments with guidelines or general instructions concerning investment management decisions. The investment policy of the Plan is to maintain a portfolio of investments which is conservative in nature. The Trustees, working with experienced investment consultants, monitor and make appropriate changes to the Plan’s investments, seeking to achieve positive investment results over the long term. Under the Plan’s investment policy, the Plan’s assets were allocated among the following categories of investments, as of the end of the Plan Year. These allocations are percentages of total assets: Asset Allocations Percentage 1. Cash (Interest bearing and non-interest bearing) 12.38% 2. U.S. Government securities 33.02% 3. Corporate debt instruments 26.95% 26.69% 4. Corporate stocks (other than employer securities): 5. Other .96% Right to Request a Copy of the Annual Report A pension plan is required to file with the U.S. Department of Labor an annual report called the Form 5500 that contains financial and other information about the plan. The Plan’s 2009 and 2010 annual reports are available now. The Plan’s 2011 annual report will be available after it is filed with the U.S. Department of Labor in May 2013. Copies of the annual report are available from the U.S. Department of Labor, Employee Benefits Security Administration’s Public Disclosure Room at 200 Constitution Avenue, NW, Room N-1513, Washington, DC 20210, or by calling (202) 693-8673. For 2009 and subsequent plan years, you may obtain an electronic copy of the plan’s annual report by going to www.efast.dol.gov and using the Form 5500 search function. Or you may obtain a copy of the Plan’s annual report by making a written request to Ms. Michelle Chang, Administrator, SIU Pacific District Pension Plan, at 730 Harrison Street, Suite 400, San Francisco, CA 94107. Individual information, such as the amount of your accrued benefit under the plan, is not contained in the annual report. If you are seeking information regarding your benefits under the plan, contact the plan administrator. Summary of Rules Governing Plans in Reorganization and Insolvent Plans Federal law has a number of special rules that apply to financially troubled multiemployer plans. The plan administrator is required by law to include a summary of these rules in the annual funding notice. Under so-called “plan reorganization rules,” a plan with adverse financial experience may need to increase required contributions and may, under certain circumstances, reduce benefits that are not eligible for the PBGC’s guarantee (generally, benefits that have been in effect for less than 60 months). If a plan is in reorganization status, it must provide notification that the plan is in reorganization status and that, if contributions are not increased, accrued benefits under the plan may be reduced or an excise tax may be imposed (or both). The plan is required to furnish this notification to each contributing employer and the labor organization. Despite these special plan reorganization rules, a plan in reorganization could become insolvent. A plan is insolvent for a plan year if its available financial resources are not sufficient to pay benefits when due for that plan year. An insolvent plan must reduce benefit payments to the highest level that can be paid from the plan’s available resources. If such resources are not enough to pay benefits at the level specified by law (see Benefit Payments Guaranteed by the PBGC, below), the plan must apply to the PBGC for financial assistance. The PBGC will loan the plan the amount necessary to pay benefits at the guaranteed level. Reduced benefits may be restored if the plan’s financial condition improves. A plan that becomes insolvent must provide prompt notice of its status to participants and beneficiaries, contributing employers, labor unions representing participants, and the PBGC. In addition, participants and beneficiaries also must receive information regarding whether, and how, their benefits will be reduced or affected, including loss of a lump sum option. This information will be provided for each year the plan is insolvent. This Plan is not insolvent and not in reorganization, and is over 100% funded. Benefit Payments Guaranteed by the PBGC The maximum benefit that the PBGC guarantees is set by law. Only benefits that you have earned a right to receive and that cannot be forfeited (called vested benefits) are guaranteed. Specifically, the PBGC guarantees a monthly benefit payment equal to 100 percent of the first $11 of the Plan’s monthly benefit accrual rate, plus 75 percent of the next $33 of the accrual rate, times each year of credited service. The PBGC’s maximum guarantee, therefore, is $35.75 per month times a participant’s years of credited service. Example 1: If a participant with 10 years of credited service has an accrued monthly benefit of $500, the accrual rate for purposes of determining the PBGC guarantee would be determined by dividing the monthly benefit by the participant’s years of service ($500/10), which equals $50. The guaranteed amount for a $50 monthly accrual rate is equal to the sum of $11 plus $24.75 (.75 x $33), or $35.75. Thus, the participant’s guaranteed monthly benefit is $357.50 ($35.75 x 10). Example 2: If the participant in Example 1 has an accrued monthly benefit of $200, the accrual rate for purposes of determining the guarantee would be $20 (or $200/10). The guaranteed amount for a $20 monthly accrual rate is equal to the sum of $11 plus $6.75 (.75 x $9), or $17.75. Thus, the participant’s guaranteed monthly benefit would be $177.50 ($17.75 x 10). The PBGC guarantees pension benefits payable at normal retirement age and some early retirement benefits. In calculating a person’s monthly payment, the PBGC will disregard any benefit increases that were made under the plan within 60 months before the earlier of the plan’s termination or insolvency (or benefits that were in effect for less than 60 months at the time of termination or insolvency). Similarly, the PBGC does not guarantee pre-retirement death benefits to a spouse or beneficiary (e.g., a qualified pre-retirement survivor annuity) if the participant dies after the plan terminates, benefits above the normal retirement benefit, disability benefits not in pay status, or non-pension benefits, such as health insurance, life insurance, death benefits, vacation pay, or severance pay. Where to Get More Information For more information about this notice, you may contact Ms. Michelle Chang, Administrator, SIU Pacific District Pension Plan, at 730 Harrison Street, Suite 400, San Francisco, CA 94107, (415) 764-4993. For identification purposes, the official plan number is 001 and the plan sponsor’s name and employer identification number or “EIN” is the Board of Trustees of SIU Pacific District Pension Plan and 94-6061923. For more information about the PBGC, go to PBGC’s website, www.pbgc.gov. Know Your Rights FINANCIAL REPORTS. The Constitution of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District makes specific provision for safeguarding the membership’s money and union finances. The constitution requires a detailed audit by certified public accountants every year, which is to be submitted to the membership by the secretary-treasurer. A yearly finance committee of rank-and-file members, elected by the membership, each year examines the finances of the union and reports fully their findings and recommendations. Members of this committee may make dissenting reports, specific recommendations and separate findings. TRUST FUNDS. All trust funds of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District are administered in accordance with the provisions of various trust fund agreements. All these agreements specify that the trustees in charge of these funds shall equally consist of union and management representatives and their alternates. All expenditures and disbursements of trust funds are made only upon approval by a majority of the trustees. All trust fund financial records are available at the headquarters of the various trust funds. SHIPPING RIGHTS. A member’s shipping rights and seniority are protected exclusively by contracts between the union and the employers. Members should get to know their shipping rights. Copies of these contracts are posted and available in all union halls. If members believe there have been violations of their shipping or seniority rights as contained in the contracts between the union and the employers, they should notify the Seafarers Appeals Board by certified mail, return receipt 20 Seafarers LOG 15042_February_LOG.indd 20 requested. The proper address for this is: Augustin Tellez, Chairman Seafarers Appeals Board 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 Full copies of contracts as referred to are available to members at all times, either by writing directly to the union or to the Seafarers Appeals Board. CONTRACTS. Copies of all SIU contracts are available in all SIU halls. These contracts specify the wages and conditions under which an SIU member works and lives aboard a ship or boat. Members should know their contract rights, as well as their obligations, such as filing for overtime (OT) on the proper sheets and in the proper manner. If, at any time, a member believes that an SIU patrolman or other union official fails to protect their contractual rights properly, he or she should contact the nearest SIU port agent. EDITORIAL POLICY — THE SEAFARERS LOG. The Seafarers LOG traditionally has refrained from publishing any article serving the political purposes of any individual in the union, officer or member. It also has refrained from publishing articles deemed harmful to the union or its collective membership. This established policy has been reaffirmed by membership action at the September 1960 meetings in all constitutional ports. The responsibility for Sea­farers LOG policy is vested in an editorial board which consists of the executive board of the union. The executive board may delegate, from among its ranks, one individual to carry out this responsibility. PAYMENT OF MONIES. No monies are to be paid to anyone in any official capacity in the SIU unless an official union receipt is given for same. Under no circumstances should any member pay any money for any reason unless he is given such receipt. In the event anyone attempts to require any such payment be made without supplying a receipt, or if a member is required to make a payment and is given an official receipt, but feels that he or she should not have been required to make such payment, this should immediately be reported to union headquarters. CONSTITUTIONAL RIGHTS AND OBLIGATIONS. Copies of the SIU Constitution are available in all union halls. All members should obtain copies of this constitution so as to familiarize themselves with its contents. Any time a member feels any other member or officer is attempting to deprive him or her of any constitutional right or obligation by any methods, such as dealing with charges, trials, etc., as well as all other details, the member so affected should immediately notify headquarters. EQUAL RIGHTS. All members are guaranteed equal rights in employment and as members of the SIU. These rights are clearly set forth in the SIU Constitution and in the contracts which the union has negotiated with the employers. Conse­quently, no member may be discriminated against because of race, creed, color, sex, national or geographic origin. If any member feels that he or she is denied the equal rights to which he or she is entitled, the member should notify union headquarters. SEAFARERS POLITICAL ACTIVITY DONATION (SPAD). SPAD is a separate segregated fund. Its proceeds are used to further its objects and purposes including, but not limited to, furthering the political, social and economic interests of maritime workers, the preservation and furthering of the American merchant marine with improved employment opportunities for seamen and boatmen and the advancement of trade union concepts. In connection with such objects, SPAD supports and contributes to political candidates for elective office. All contributions are voluntary. No contribution may be solicited or received because of force, job discrimination, financial reprisal, or threat of such conduct, or as a condition of membership in the union or of employment. If a contribution is made by reason of the above improper conduct, the member should notify the Seafarers International Union or SPAD by certified mail within 30 days of the contribution for investigation and appropriate action and refund, if involuntary. A member should support SPAD to protect and further his or her economic, political and social interests, and American trade union concepts. NOTIFYING THE UNION — If at any time a member feels that any of the above rights have been violated, or that he or she has been denied the constitutional right of access to union records or information, the member should immediately notify SIU President Michael Sacco at headquarters by certified mail, return receipt requested. The address is: Michael Sacco, President Seafarers International Union 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746. February 2013 1/24/2013 5:39:35 PM �Paul Hall Center Upgrading Course Information The following is a schedule of courses at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md., for the next few months. All programs are geared toward improving the job skills of Seafarers and promoting the American maritime industry. Please note that this schedule may change to reflect the needs of the membership, the maritime industry and—in times of conflict—the national security. Students attending any of these classes should check in the Saturday before their course’s start date. The courses listed here will begin promptly on the morning of the start dates. For classes ending on a Friday, departure reservations should be made for Saturday. Seafarers who have any questions regarding the upgrading courses offered at the Paul Hall Center may call the admissions office at (301) 994-0010. Title of Start Date of Course Date Completion Deck Department Lifeboatman/Water Survival March 2 March 15 March 30 April 12 April 27 May 10 May 25 June 7 June 22 July 5 STOS April 27 May 10 Able Seaman March 16 April 12 May 11 June 7 Radar Renewal (One day) May 28 May 28 Radar Observer May 4 May 17 ARPA May 18 May 24 Bosun Recertification July 13 August 5 ECDIS February 23 March 1 Terrestrial/Coastal Navigation February 2 February 22 Engine Department Basic Auxiliary Plant Operations (BAPO) January 26 February 22 March 23 April 19 May 18 June 14 FOWT February 23 March 22 April 20 May 17 June 15 July 12 Junior Engineer May 4 June 28 Marine Refer Tech May 4 June 14 Machinist February 9 March 1 UPGRADING APPLICATION Name_________________________________________________________________________ Address_______________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________ Telephone (Home)_________________________ (Cell)_________________________ Date of Birth___________________________________________________________________ Deep Sea Member o Lakes Member o Inland Waters Member o Title of Start Date of Course Date Completion Welding February 9 March 1 March 9 March 29 April 6 April 26 May 4 May 24 June 1 June 21 Safety Upgrading Courses Basic Firefighting/STCW February 23 March 1 March 23 March 29 April 13 April 19 May 11 May 17 June 15 June 21 Advanced Firefighting February 2 February 8 March 30 April 5 Government Vessels February 11 February 15 March 11 March 15 April 15 April 19 May 6 May 10 June 3 June 7 Medical Care Provider February 9 February 15 April 6 April 12 Tank Pic Barge May 4 May 10 Steward Department Upgrading Courses Chief Steward April 13 May 24 July 6 August 16 Steward Recertification March 16 April 8 Serve Safe March 9 March 15 June 8 June 14 Galley Operations These modules start every Monday. Chief Cook These modules start every other week. The next class will begin February 16. Advanced Galley Operations These modules start every Monday. Important Notice Students who have registered for classes at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, but later discover - for whatever reason - that they can’t attend, should inform the admissions department immediately so arrangements can be made to have other students take their places. COURSE ____________________________ START DATE _______________ DATE OF COMPLETION _______________________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________________ If the following information is not filled out completely, your application will not be processed. Social Security #_______________________ Book #__________________________________ Seniority_____________________________ Department_____________________________ Home Port____________________________________________________________________ E-mail_______________________________________________________________________ Endorsement(s) or License(s) now held_____________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________ Are you a graduate of the SHLSS/PHC trainee program? o Yes o No If yes, class #___________________________________________________________________ Have you attended any SHLSS/PHC upgrading courses? o Yes o No If yes, course(s) taken____________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________ NOTE: Transportation will be paid in accordance with the scheduling letter only if you present original receipts and successfully complete the course. If you have any questions, contact your port agent before departing for Piney Point. Not all classes are reimbursable.Return completed application to: Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education Admissions Office, P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674-0075; or fax to (301) 994-2189. With this application, COPIES of the following must be sent: One hundred and twenty-five (125) days seatime for the previous year, one day in the last six months prior to the date your class starts, USMMD (z-card) front and back or relevant pages of merchant mariner credential, front page of your union book indicating your department and seniority, qualifying seatime for the course if it is Coast Guard tested, 1995 STCW Certificate, valid SHBP Clinic Card and TWIC. The Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education is a private, non-profit, equal opportunity institution and admits students, who are otherwise qualified, of any race, nationality or sex. The school complies with applicable laws with regard to admission, access or treatment of students in its programs or activities. 2/13 February 2013 15042_February_LOG.indd 21 LAST VESSEL: ___________________________________ Rating: ____________________ Date On: _______________________________ Date Off:____________________________ SIGNATURE ____________________________________ DATE______________________ Seafarers LOG 21 1/24/2013 5:39:36 PM �Paul Hall Center Classes Unlicensed Apprentice Water Survival Class 767 – Nineteen Phase I unlicensed apprentices completed this 60-hour course Dec. 21. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Joshua Burnette, Hector Caballero, Randall Campbell, Derek Chestnut, Timothy Dougherty, Curtis Everett, Keyon Gregory, Catherine Hopkins, Michael Kloos, Henry Marchant, Christopher Mendoza, Daniel Nicholson, Adam Poole, Christina Price, Wrightly Reed, Scott Reynolds, Hakeem Shoatz, Jeffrey Thrash and Douglas Vaughn. Class Instructor Ben Cusic is at the far right. (Note: Not all are pictured.) GMDSS – The following upgraders (above, in alphabetical order) graduated from this this 70-hour course Dec. 7: Michael Andrew, Richard Crutchfield, Emmanuel Garcia, David Goodwin, Michael Harris Jr., Ross Robinson and Perry Schroff. Brad Wheeler, their instructor, is at the far right. Certified Chief Cook – Two upgraders recently completed their requirements in this 12-week course. Graduating (above, from the left) were Frances Bautista and Clifton Medley III. ECDIS – The following individuals (above, in alphabetical order) graduated from this course Dec. 14: Juan Barandiaran, Henry Gamp, Bryan Kneeland, Jose Marrero, Martin Meravy, Gary Schulte, Timothy Smithwick and Jeremiah Turner. Class Instructor Brad Wheeler is at the far left. Welding – Five upgraders finished this course Dec. 14. Graduating from the four-week class (above, in alphabetical order) were: Azad Ardeshirdavani, Nicole Geideman, Michael Gray, Michael Mermell and Steve Shaffer. Class Instructor Buzzy Andrews is standing second from the left. ECDIS – Four Seafarers completed the enhancement of their skills in this 35-hour course Dec.21. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Alfred Drake, Mark Knight, Clifton Noe and Richard Weaver. Brad Wheeler, their instructor, is at the far left. Combined Basic and Advanced Fire Fighting – Eight upgraders completed this 41hour course Dec. 7. Those graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Dionce Bright, Elijah Huff, James Kayser, Ryan Kinser, Peter Meglow, Melvin Smalls, Carrie Stockton and Timothy VanWeezel. Joe Zienda, their instructor, is at the far right. BST – The following Seafarers (photo at right, in alphabetical order) completed the enhancement of their skills in this course Dec. 7: Omar Aswad, Michael Blair, Henry Brown Jr., Romeo Codillero, Andy Derry, Charles Ford, Cirico Geonanga, Weston Hines, Dwight Hunt, Ryan Legario, Terrell McMillian, Jesse Mixon, David Parker, Raymond Roldan, Ali Saleh, David Sexton, Adrian Schubert, Delbra Singleton-Leslie, Benjamin Sivells, Leonard Soriano and Mariette Wright. 22 Seafarers LOG 15042_February_LOG.indd 22 February 2013 1/24/2013 5:39:42 PM �Paul Hall Center Classes Tank Barge Dangerous Liquids – Seventeen upgraders finished this 38-hour course Dec. 14. Those graduating (photo at left, in alphabetical order) were: Omar Aswad, Frank Battaglia, Martin Baker, Henry Brown Jr., Romeo Codillero, Charles Ford, Weston Hines, Gary Hirsch, Dwight Hunt, James Kayser, Ryan Legario, Jesse Mixon, Melvin Smalls, Leonard Soriano, Thomas Swanson, Timothy VanWeezel and Kwamena Watson. Class Instructor Mitch Oakley is standing at the far left. Important Notice to Students Students who have registered for classes at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, but later discover - for whatever reason that they can’t attend, should inform the admissions department immediately so arrangements can be made to have other students take their places. Basic Auxiliary Plant Operations (BAPO)– Ten Phase III unlicensed apprentices graduated from this 63-hour course Dec. 7. Completing their requirements and receiving certificates (above, in alphabetical order) were: Ely Desingano, Elliot Duncan, Olympia Harley, Randolph Harrell, Rene Hernandez-Ramos, Tristan Jones, Andrew Kritz, Grant Simonson, BAPO – The following upgraders (above, in alphabetical order) graduated from this course Joseph Spencer and Tyree Watkins. John Wiegman, their instructor, is at the far right. Dec. 7: Rodolfo Caldo, Daniel Daligcon, Brian Deans, Ely Desingano, Ricardo Fuentes, (Note: Not all are pictured.) Corey Leonard, Anthony Moore Jr., Ryan Papa, and Tyree Watkins. Medical Care Provider – Seven Seafarers completed the enhancement of their skills in this course Dec. 14. Those graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Cleveland Foy, Elijah Huff, Ryan Kinser, Victorino Labrilla Jr., John McCabe, Peter Meglow and Perry Schroff. Class Instructors Wayne Johnson Jr. and Wayne Johnson Sr. are at the far left and far right, respectively. Steward Department Courses – Five upgraders recently completed their requirements in assorted steward department courses. Those graduating (above, from the left) and the courses they completed were: Lamond Fulton, advanced galley operations; Cesar Dela Cruz, steward; Ricardo Arauz, galley operations; Al Yandoc, galley operations; and Salah Kassem, galley operations. February 2013 15042_February_LOG.indd 23 Marine Electrician – The following mariners (above, in alphabetical order) finished their requirements in this 280-hour course Dec. 14: Haeven Bautista, Matthew Bryant, James Corprew, Jason Greene, Domingo Hurtado, Kakesha Miller, Roger Nesbeth, Loreto Orosco, Shawn Pantschyschak, Tijani Rashid, Jonathan Tucker and Kevin Tyson. Jay Henderson, their instructor, is at the far right. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Watchkeeping - The following students (above, in alphabetical order) graduated from this course Nov. 2: Brandon Braam, Daniel Bradberry, Satchel Caffy, James Copeland, Nicole Geideman, Nicholas Kempker, Karen Laylock, Elmer Marko, Jermaine McGhee, Samantha Murphy, Stacy Murphy, Jeremy Scheil, and Whitney Sheridan. Seafarers LOG 23 1/24/2013 5:39:47 PM �Volume 75, Number 2 February 2013 Paul Hall Center Course Dates Page 21 SIU Mourns, Fondly Remembers Senator Inouye Longtime Union Ally was War Hero, Maritime Industry Champion The nation lost a dedicated leader, and the SIU injuries sustained in the war, was an honorary SIU a cherished friend, when U.S. Senator Daniel K. member. Throughout the years, he received virtuInouye (D-Hawaii) died from respiratory complially every award the American maritime industry cations Dec. 17 at Walter Reed National Military presents, including the prestigious Admiral of the Medical Center in Bethesda, Md. He was 88. Ocean Sea award. In an online post the next day, the SIU said that He started serving the people of Hawaii in 1959 even as it “joins with the multitude of other orga(the year the islands received statehood) as a memnizations and individuals who are mourning” the ber of Congress before being elected to the Senate senator’s death, “at the same time, in 1962. He was re-elected every we look back with great affection, six years thereafter, becoming the respect and appreciation for Senasecond-longest serving member in tor Inouye’s decades of friendship. U.S. history. He most recently was Next year (2013) will mark the elected in 2010. SIU’s 75th anniversary. In all that AFL-CIO President Rich time, we’ve had no greater ally than Trumka described Inouye as “the Senator Inouye.” person every American aspires to SIU President Michael Sacco be. His courage under fire, visionstated, “Senator Inouye’s record of ary leadership and love for his service to our country is worthy of country and his constituents are an an entire book, so there’s no way inspiration for everyone. He fought to do it justice in a few sentences. valiantly, broke down barriers and But I want everyone to know that was a fierce advocate for what is the Senator was a true champion of right and good.” the U.S. Merchant Marine. In the Secretary of Defense Leon Palast 50 years, no one in Congress netta said he worked closely with has been a greater, more influential Inouye while serving as a member friend to the maritime industry. His Inouye is pictured in 1962 – of Congress and in the Clinton and efforts were critical to every piece the year he first was elected Obama administrations. of maritime legislation enacted “His life of service to the people to the U.S. Senate. in that time. His support of the of Hawaii and to this nation emJones Act, the Maritime Security bodied the essence of the American Program, cargo preference and other vital maritime dream, and the heroism of the greatest generation,” initiatives has been invaluable. He also was instruPanetta said. “Daniel Inouye’s legacy will long enmental in the rebirth of the U.S.-flag cruise industry dure in the better quality of life he helped bring to in Hawaii.” generations of military personnel and their families, The SIU president added, “I’m sure most people to the people of Hawaii, and in the contribution he know that Senator Inouye is a true American hero made to a stronger defense of the United States of – a World War II veteran who received the nation’s America.” highest medal, the Medal of Honor, for his courLabor Secretary Hilda Solis described Inouye age and leadership on the battlefield. Throughout as “a fighter [who] exuded quiet leadership but his distinguished career in Congress, Senator Inwielded a powerful voice for working families in ouye has been no less passionate in promoting and Hawaii…. He will be missed by so many of us.” defending the interests of working families. He is James Henry, chairman of the American Marisomeone I will always respect and admire. He is time Partnership (a key coalition whose members someone I’m proud to have called a friend, and include the SIU), stated, “Senator Inouye will be someone I’m so very grateful to have had on our remembered forever by a grateful maritime nation. side.” The U.S. Senate and all Americans have lost an Senator Inouye, who lost an arm because of honorable man and genuine statesman.” Senator Daniel K. Inouye 1924-2012 Clockwise beginning with the black and white photo at the immediate right, the senator speaks at a Maritime Trades Department meeting in 1977. SIU President Michael Sacco (second from left) said the senator’s efforts “were critical to every piece of maritime legislation enacted” in the last 50 years. Pictured in this 2011 photo are (from left) SIU Political and Legislative Director Brian Schoeneman, Sacco, Senator Inouye and SIU Exec. VP Augie Tellez. Flanked by SIU President Paul Hall (left) and Secretary-Treasurer Al Kerr, the senator speaks at the 1971 SIUNA convention. “Senator Inouye’s record of service to our country is worthy of an entire book, so there’s no way to do it justice in a few sentences. But I want everyone to know that the Senator was a true champion of the U.S. Merchant Marine. In the last 50 years, no one in Congress has been a greater, more influential friend to the maritime industry. His efforts were critical to every piece of maritime legislation enacted in that time. His support of the Jones Act, the Maritime Security Program, cargo preference and other vital maritime initiatives has been invaluable.” - - - SIU President Michael Sacco 15042_February_LOG_X.indd 24 1/25/2013 8:05:57 PM � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Seafarers Log Issues 2010-2019 Description An account of the resource Volumes LXXII-LXXXI of the Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Seafarers Log Digital Copies Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 2010-2019 Document A resource containing textual data. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre text. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource February 2013 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES SIU GAINS JOBS ON NEW MILITARY SUPPORT VESSELS MSP EXTENSION A HUGE VICTORY FOR MARITIME, NATIONAL SECURITY PRESIDENT SIGNS LAWS THAT PROTECTS JONES ACT, IMPROVES TWIC PROCESS COMMITTEE ANNOUNCES UNION ELECTION RESULTS MLP CONTRACT AWARD MEANS NEW JOBS FOR SIU MEMBERS MARAD RECOGNIZES SIU MEMBERS FOR SUPPORT OF SANDY RELIEF EFFORTS GULF COAST VP CORGEY RECEIVES PORT APPOINTMENT PIRACY FALLS IN 2012 BUT REMAINS A DEADLY PROBLEM SIU-CREWED CROWLEY ATB RESCUES MAN IN FLORIDA SIU SHIPS SAIL FOR ‘DEEP FREEZE’ CHANGES IN WASHINGTON COULD HAVE IMPACT ON MARITIME INDUSTRY, LABOR MOVEMENT SEAFARERS CONTINUE TRADITION OF GENEROSITY ITF: PANAMA SHOULD ASSIST CREW SEAFARERS CELEBRATE HOLIDAYS AT SEA, AROUND THE PORTS SIU MOURNS, FONDLY REMEMBERS SENATOR INOUYE LONGTIME UNION ALLY WAS WAR HERO, MARITIME INDUSTRY CHAMPION Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Seafarers Log Digital Copies Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 02/01/2013 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Newsprint Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context Vol. 75, No. 2 2013 Periodicals Seafarers Log http://www.seafarerslog.org/archives/files/original/7a24b5523dbf54cf5ea6fbd00d965f81.pdf 1df9ce8231f62a11581f303a8cf35c69 PDF Text Text Volume 75, Number 3 March 2013 SIU Adds Tanker Florida to Fleet Crowley Vessel Means New Jobs For SIU Members SIU members and officials participated in the Jan. 30 christening of the Crowley tanker Florida at Aker Philadelphia Shipyard. The new ship (photo at top) will sail in the Jones Act trade. Some of the ceremony attendees are pictured in the photo below. Breaking the traditional champagne bottle over the bow (photo at left) is Nina Glende Johnsen, the wife of Aker President and CEO Kristian Rokke. Pictured from left to right in the group photo above are SIU Executive VP Augie Tellez, VP Atlantic Coast Joseph Soresi, Recertified Steward Hazel Johnson, Port Agent Joe Baselice, Chief Pumpman Troy Banks, Recertified Bosun John Lamprecht and Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel. In the remaining photo are Tellez and Crowley President and CEO Tom Crowley. Page 3. New Clinic Network Launched Page 2 SIU Snapshots Page 7 ATC Crews Train in Piney Point Pages 10-11 �President’s Report Unions Remain Essential for America This year’s report from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics on union membership nationwide hardly qualifies as good news, but it was encouraging to see many pundits and other knowledgeable sources quickly point out the ongoing importance of organized labor. We’ve got a sample of those reactions in a story on page 5 of this issue. Overall, membership numbers dropped, largely because of state-level attacks on collective bargaining in the public sector and also because the economy still is struggling. But, some states bucked that trend, and the annual report also showed that union members once again enjoyed higher wages and better benefits, on average, compared to unrepresented workers. I know I’m preaching to the choir, but the Michael Sacco need for strong unions in our great nation has never been more critical. The only way to revitalize the middle class is by ensuring employees have a voice in the workplace. A key part of maintaining good jobs here at home is treating workers with respect, expecting those working to deliver, and making sure they share in the rewards when business is good. That’s a basic standard we’ve followed with great success in the maritime industry. Sure, we’ve got our own challenges, but I’ve long believed that maritime is a model when it comes to labormanagement cooperation, and that’s due in large part to the union representation enjoyed by American mariners. The same approach can (and does) work in other fields. More broadly, there is no doubt that all workers, even non-union ones, benefit from the standards set by union contracts. That’s another key point that was brought to the forefront as people analyzed the BLS report. We’re in a battle in the labor movement, and I think the extremist attacks on working families are appalling. From the big lie of socalled right-to-work (for less) laws to the attacks on public-sector rights and well beyond, nothing is sacred. Still, I’m optimistic about the future of unions and union members. We remain a force – we showed it beyond a doubt on Election Day – and we’ve weathered many storms throughout our long history. We’ll rebound from this one, too, through solidarity, smart planning and hard work. Our future depends on a robust union movement – and so does the American Dream. New Tonnage, Other Gains We’ve got plenty of good news to report this month, including Crowley’s newest Jones Act tanker, the Florida; the roll-out of our expanded Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan clinic system; the formation of the first-ever U.S. Congressional Maritime Caucus; plus improvements for our Government Services Division members. These developments don’t happen by accident, and they are more evidence of what we can accomplish by working cooperatively with management, government and our military while still standing up for our members’ rights. Also featured this month is a recent safety training course completed by Seafarers from Alaska Tanker Company. The class took place at our affiliated school in Piney Point, Maryland: the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education. There’s no way to overstate the importance of the school to our union and to our contracted operators. We work in such a heavily regulated industry, and the potential liabilities are so high, no one can afford to be behind the times when it comes to proper training and preparation. I’m proud to say Piney Point takes a back seat to no one when it comes to cutting-edge technology and training, and that’s why we continue to deliver well-qualified, reliable shipboard manpower for all types of vessels. I’d stack our members against any from around the world, and Piney Point plays a big part in all of our success. Volume 75, Number 3 March 2013 The SIU online: www.seafarers.org The Seafarers LOG (ISSN 1086-4636) is published monthly by the Seafarers International Union; Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU, AFL-CIO; 5201 Auth Way; Camp Springs, MD 20746. Telephone (301) 899-0675. Periodicals postage paid at Southern Maryland 20790-9998. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to the Seafarers LOG, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. Communications Director, Jordan Biscardo; Managing Editor/Production, Jim Guthrie; Assistant Editor, Brian Ahern; Photographer, Harry Gieske; Administrative Support, Misty Dobry. Copyright © 2013 Seafarers International Union, AGLIWD. All Rights Reserved. The Seafarers International Union engaged an environmentally friendly printer for the production of this newspaper. 2 Seafarers LOG Reversed to White Reversed to White New Clinic System Starts March 1 An eagerly anticipated improvement to the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan (SHBP) clinic system kicks off March 1, and the result should be less travel and more convenience for SIU members. Parts of the new system will be phased in, but Seafarers may take advantage of the expanded network immediately. As of March 1, members will be able to choose from among more than 2,000 participating facilities in the contiguous United States. As reported at the January membership meetings, the SHBP recently finished negotiations with Comprehensive Health Services Inc. (CHS) to provide participants a more extensive network for clinic services. This larger network virtually without exception will offer access to clinics closer to home for annual exams, functional capacity evaluations and interval exams. SHBP Administrator Maggie Bowen pointed out that some of the previously utilized clinics are part of the new network, so Seafarers and their eligible dependents “may see the same doctors if that’s what they prefer.” In the near future, Seafarers will have the option of using the members-only portal on the SIU website to schedule medical appointments and review related information. For now, though, Seafarers should contact their respective port agents for step-by-step guidance on the new clinic system. SIU Vice President Contracts George Tricker noted that with the advent of the expanded network, it is more important than ever for members to maintain current addresses and other contact information both with the union and the SHBP. This information may be reviewed and updated on the SIU website (seafarers.org) or via the union halls. He also pointed out that the improved network is a direct result of SIU negotiators acting upon feedback from the membership during last year’s contract negotiations. “After a phase-in period, members no longer will be required to pass a pre-hire Anderson Kelly physical,” Tricker stated. “This will affect members seeking to renew their clinic cards that expire after March 1, 2013.” He added that SIU-contracted companies still may ask for an independent physical analysis. Last fall, rank-and-file Seafarers and officials from the union and the SHBP visited some of the new medical facilities and completed many of the tests in order to help verify the quality of the clinics and the fairness of the procedures. Updated on the new clinic system will be reported in future issues of the LOG, at membership meetings and on the SIU website. SIU Official Delivers Maritime’s Message At Prestigious Harvard Law Labor Forum When the head of Harvard Law School’s Labor and Worklife Program (LWP) wanted expert input on globalization’s effect on workers, she turned to the maritime industry – and to the SIU. SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel spoke at the Ivy League school in Cambridge, Mass., Feb. 5 at the invitation of Dr. Elaine Bernard, executive director of the LWP. Heindel also serves as chair of the International Transport Workers’ Federation Seafarers’ Section; the SIU is an ITF affiliate. Heindel covered many topics during his 90-minute address including the ITF flag-of-convenience (FOC) campaign, the International Bargaining Forum, piracy, the Maritime Labor Convention (MLC) 2006 and much more. The topics’ common thread was safeguards for workers. Several dozen people were in the audience, including guests and Labor and Worklife enrollees. The program itself is described as “Harvard University’s forum for research and teaching on the world of work and its implications for society…. The LWP brings together scholars and policy experts from a variety of disciplines to analyze critical labor issues in the law, economy, and society. The LWP also provides unique education for labor leaders throughout the world via the oldest executive training program at Harvard University, the Harvard Trade Union Program, founded in 1942. As a multidisciplinary research and policy network, the LWP organizes projects and programs that seek to understand critical changes in labor markets and labor law, and to analyze the role of unions, business, and government as they affect the world of work. By engaging scholars, students, and members of the labor community, the program coordinates legal, educational, and cultural activities designed to im- prove the quality of work life.” Bernard is no stranger to the maritime industry, and she was a featured speaker in late 2011 at the ITF Women’s Conference on Leadership, Strategy and Organizing, which took place at the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, located in Piney Point, Md. In her invitation to Heindel for last month’s event, she noted that the Harvard Trade Union Program is a six-week, intensive, residential program “designed to extend to union leaders the same advanced leadership education that Harvard offers to executive-level individuals in business and government.” During his remarks, which included a questions-and-answers session, Heindel explained that the ITF has 708 affiliated unions collectively representing more than 4.5 million transport workers (many of them mariners) in 154 countries. The federation’s FOC campaign dates back more than 60 years and remains a focal point. “These flags, including the largest register in the world (Panama), allow shipowners, who have no genuine link to the flag state, to register their ships there in order to avoid the taxation and regulation which their own countries would impose,” Heindel pointed out. “FOCs have a disproportionately high percentage of casualties and port state control detentions with respect to their share of the world fleet. They are mainly registers which exercise little or no control over their owners and who do not adequately exercise their responsibilities as flag states with regard to International Labor Organization (ILO) or International Maritime Organization (IMO) conventions and recommendations.” The ITF Seafarers’ Section, he continued, is an active and effective ally for affiliated unions and individual seafarers, both on its own SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel (above) explains how the ITF has assisted mariners for more than 100 years. Among those attending Heindel’s presentation (photo at bottom left) were other labor officials enrolled in the Harvard Trade Union Program. and through cooperative work with the ILO, IMO and other international agencies. “We also maintain a network of over 130 ITF inspectors around the world to enforce our policies and international regulations. Through the FOC campaign we impose ITF special agreements for FOC ships which specify minimum conditions of employment for crews, including wages, benefits and health and safety provisions. “To further our reach, in 1999 we established the International Bargaining Forum, which provides a collective bargaining process rather than the ITF unilaterally imposing a benchmark agreement and then going out and industrially implementing it.” As in other industries, Heindel said, globalization “has helped to fuel this rush to the bottom” in maritime. “In an increasingly fiercely competitive shipping market, each new FOC state is forced to promote itself by offering the lowest possible fees and minimum regulation. In the same way, shipowners are forced to look for the cheapest and least regulated ways of running their vessels in order to compete.” In discussing the MLC, Heindel described it as “one of the most important pieces of international legislation that has been adopted in nearly 100 years. To draw a comparison, as important as the Davis-Bacon Act is to U.S. construction workers, the Maritime Labor Convention is just as significant to international seafarers and to responsible shipowners.” (See related story, page 4.) March 2013 �Paul “Chip” Jaenichen Deputy Maritime Administrator Tom Crowley Crowley Maritime President & CEO SIU members and officials gather near the bow after the ceremony. Crowley Christens Tanker Florida in Philadelphia SIU members and officials joined in the celebration Jan. 30 at Aker Philadelphia Shipyard as the new Crowley Maritime Corporation Tanker Florida was christened. The ship is an outright addition to the Seafarers-crewed fleet, and will sail Recertified Steward Hazel Johnson Oiler Ann Mensch March 2013 in the Jones Act trade. Recertified Bosun John Lamprecht said things are going quite well aboard the new tanker, which was built by union shipyard workers. The ship’s officers are represented by members of the Seafarersaffiliated American Maritime Officers. “We have a good crew,” he said. “Everybody’s been hustling, working hard. Everybody’s got a great attitude and a good working relationship. The captain has been cool…. Crowley has a good safety plan in effect, and we give them what they need.” More than 100 guests turned out for the christening. Nina Glende Johnsen, the wife of Aker President and CEO Kristian Rokke, broke the traditional bottle of champagne across the bow. In addition the unlicensed crew, the SIU was represented by Executive Vice President Augie Tellez, Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel, Vice President Atlantic Coast Joseph Soresi and Philadelphia Port Agent Joe Baselice. Deputy Maritime Administrator Paul “Chip” Jaenichen was a featured speaker at the pier-side ceremony. He said the U.S. is expected to become the world’s leading producer of crude oil in the next decade, so the capacity of the Florida and its sister ship Pennsylvania are important. “This ship is well-timed,” he stated. “Jones Act vessels are the lifeblood of our domestic oil trade, and today we’ve strengthened that fleet.” Jaenichen thanked President/CEO Tom Crowley and the entire company for their commitment to the U.S. maritime industry and reiterated the administration’s same commitment. “As we celebrate the upcoming maiden voyage of this particular vessel, let us highlight what it means to our industry and the well-paying jobs for hard-working Americans,” Jaenichen concluded. “This country depends on a strong U.S.flag fleet. It’s not only vital to the global and domestic trades, but it’s essential to keeping our country prosperous, secure and safe.” After acknowledging his appreciation for the company’s partnerships with maritime labor, Crowley said, “Adding these new tankers to our fleet allows us to continue providing our customers with diverse and modern equipment to transport their petroleum and chemical products in a safe and reliable manner. I recall that one of my grandfather’s missions for the company included making investments that would not only help the company grow, but also provide jobs for people, which is something we have carried on to this day, and why we continue to support the Jones Act and our U.S. shipbuilding partners, including Aker.” Rokke, reflecting not only on the Florida but the 17 other ships built at Aker since the yard reopened in 2003, said he is “filled with pride at what the men and women of this yard have produced…. Wherever this ship travels, it will make a tangible statement that she’s a citizen of America, a product of American workmanship and a symbol of what this great shipyard can achieve.” Vessel Master Capt. Scott Davis introduced each crew member to the guests. “These guys really have done the job,” he said. “I tip my hat to you.” According to Crowley, the Florida will deliver domestic oil to U.S.-based refineries. The Pennsylvania, also built at Aker, currently is at work in the U.S. Gulf, with an SIU crew. In a news release, the company noted, “Crowley has a long history of transporting petroleum products and chemicals by tankers and articulated tug barges (ATBs). Crowley is an innovator and leader in the industry through the development of an unrivaled ATB fleet, which includes some of the newest and most sophisticated ATBs in the market. As of this year, Crowley owns and operates 17 ATBs, which M/T Florida at a Glance Length: 601 feet Breadth: 105 feet Depth, at side: 61 feet, 7 inches Deadweight, at 11/12.2 m draft: 40,700, 45,800 tons Gross tonnage: 29,200 Tank capacity: 331,158 barrels Speed: 14.6 knots Main engine: MAN-B&W 6S50MC, 2-stroke, 6-cylinder N.C.R. (85% MCR): 9,894 BHP at 123.9 RPM Source: Crowley Maritime include 155,000-barrel, 185,000-barrel and 330,000-barrel capacity tank vessels. Crowley has safely and reliably operated all of these Jones Act tankers and ATBs on the U.S. Gulf, East and West coasts under voyage and time charters with leading companies in the petroleum and chemical industries, and moved 265 million barrels of petroleum and chemical product safely in 2012 alone.” Aboard the Florida, members were pleased with the surroundings. Recertified Steward Hazel Johnson, welcoming visitors during a pre-christening shipboard tour, stated, “This is a cook’s dream: a brand new galley. Everything here is stateof-the-art.” The first SIU crew on the Florida includes Bosun Lamprecht, ABs Jamar Harley, Marvin Chester, Ed Majeski, Theophilus Essien and Brandon Albro, Chief Pumpman Troy Banks, OMU Kevin Tyson, Oiler Ann Mensch, Steward Johnson, Chief Cook Brian Young and SA Marvin Davis. Note: Additional photos from the ceremony are posted in the gallery section of seafarers.org and on our Facebook page. Seafarers LOG 3 �ITF Sees Progress for MLC As Malta in late January became the 34th International Labor Organization (ILO) member state to ratify the Maritime Labor Convention (MLC) 2006, the International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF) gave its cautious approval to the progress made across the shipping world to prepare for the convention’s “all-important” implementation this August. The ITF, to which the SIU is affiliated, is actively monitoring efforts to prepare for the MLC’s entry into operation – including its own. The federation believes the legislation, the first worldwide bill of rights for mariners, “can make a positive difference to everyone serving at sea, irrespective of their nationality and the flag the ship they are on is flying.” SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel chairs the ITF Seafarers’ Section. He recently stated, “The ITF has been involved from the birth of the MLC and so it’s only right that we ensure that we and our fellow trade unions are making all necessary efforts to help it achieve the success it deserves. For us that has meant rigorous monitoring and projects to explain and support the legislation in action – for example in the way we work together with port state control.” He continued, “The results of that monitoring suggest that satisfactory progress is being made by the majority of organizations and companies to prepare for August. That includes the way the ILO is spreading the word about the need for preparedness, and positive feedback from port state control about readiness for implementation. We were also glad to see the cluster of ratifications recently, including Greece and Finland this month (January). We are also continuously pushing for further ratifications. Whether they are major port states or flag states, it is vital that everyone involved in shipping has ratified.” In a recent news release, the ITF said it sees the following components as particular strengths of the MLC in how it will affect seafarers: n The potential to stop blacklisting and charging for jobs by some manning agents; n The recognition of all crew – including hospitality crew on cruise ships – as seafarers, who will now all get the same protections; n Enhanced checks by port state control, including of pay problems such as double bookkeeping; and n The establishment of welfare facilities in ports, and of on-ship safety committees. Heindel added, “Correctly applied, the MLC will undoubtedly benefit seafarers and, through its creation of a level playing field for employers, the wider shipping industry, including all those who are already applying high standards. It is, though, deeply important that progress continues to be made towards the smoothest possible implementation in August – and beyond. For now, that process is looking good.” The ITF’s 700-plus affiliated unions include the SIU. Collectively, those organizations represent an estimated 4.5 million transport workers in 154 countries. The ITF’s headquarters is located in London. Dredging Remains Priority for LCA in 2013 The dredging crisis on the Great Lakes will again dominate the Lake Carriers’ Association’s (LCA) efforts in 2013. The organization’s 2012 annual report, released mid-January, stressed that inadequate dredging took a substantial toll on Great Lakes shipping in 2012. SIU members sail aboard many of the vessels operated by LCA companies. “The drought has pushed water levels on Lake Michigan and Huron to record lows,” the LCA noted in its report. “The water level in the St. Marys River also declined as 2012 wore on; by year’s end ships were loading to less than 26 feet. In 1997, the last period of high water, ships routinely locked through the Soo drafting 28 feet or more. That loss of draft cost some ships more than 10,000 tons of cargo on their final voyages of 2012.” The LCA hailed the component of the transportation bill passed last June that declared, “It is the sense of Congress that the Administration should request full use of the Harbor Maintenance Trust Fund (HMTF) for operating and maintaining the navigation channels of the United States” and that the amounts in the HMTF should be fully expended to operate and maintain ports and waterways. The HMTF has a surplus of $7 billion because it typically spends only one of every two tax dollars it collects for dredging on dredging. It is estimated the 17 million cubic yards of sediment that clog the Great Lakes Navigation System could be removed for approximately $200 million, or just 2 percent of the HMTF surplus. Legislation requiring the HMTF to spend what it takes in for dredging on dredging received broad support in the 112th Congress and the LCA noted that most of the legislators who co-sponsored the House and Senate bills have returned to Washington in 2013, “so we begin the 113th Congress in our strongest position ever.” Key among legislators who are working to end the dredging crisis is Sen. Carl Levin (D-Mich.). While the dredging crisis is the LCA’s top priority, the association is also focused on uniform federal regulations governing ballast water. The coalition is concerned that since states can and have added their own provisions to the EPA’s Vessel General Permit, there is a patchwork of differing requirements on the Great Lakes. Another goal is moving forward with the second Poe-sized lock at Sault Ste. Marie, Mich. Congress authorized twin- ning the Poe Lock in 2007, but a flawed benefit/cost analysis has stalled the project. At the behest of Sen. Debbie Stabenow (D-Mich.), a new assessment is underway. The LCA also continues to work to bolster the U.S. Coast Guard’s icebreaking resources, and as a result, an East Coast icebreaker has again been assigned to the lakes for the winter of 2012-2013. Additionally, the association remains firmly committed to the Jones Act and its requirement that cargo moving between U.S. ports be carried in vessels that are U.S.-crewed, U.S.-built, and U.S.-owned. Altogether, the Lake Carriers’ Association represents 17 American companies that operate 57 U.S.-flag vessels on the Great Lakes and carry the raw materials that drive the nation’s economy: iron ore and fluxstone for the steel industry, limestone and cement for the construction industry, coal for power generation, as well as salt, sand and grain. Collectively, these vessels can transport more than 115 million tons of cargo per year. Those cargos generate and sustain more than 103,000 jobs in the United States and have an economic impact of more than $20 billion. Coast Guard Sets Random Drug Testing Rate The U.S. Coast Guard in January announced its minimum random drug testing rate for the current year. According to the Federal Register, the Coast Guard has set the minimum random drug testing rate at 25 percent of covered crew members for calendar year 2013. This rate went into effect Jan.1, 2013 and will remain in force through Dec. 31, 2013. The Coast Guard annually establishes the minimum drug testing rate for the upcoming year. The agency does so in part to encourage employers to maintain drug-free workplaces with the incentive of a reduced testing rate (and associated costs). The random testing rate previously has been 50 percent for every year through 2012. In accordance with Department of Homeland Security guidance, however, the U.S. Coast Guard Commandant is authorized to lower this rate to 25 percent if, for two consecutive years the positive drug test rate is less than 1 percent. Available data indicates that the positive rate for random drug tests was 0.77 percent in 2011 and 0.74 percent in 2010. The Coast Guard commended marine employers and mariners for their efforts to create a drug-free workplace. 4 Seafarers LOG In an indirectly related development, voters in Colorado and Washington on Election Day passed landmark referendums legalizing marijuana for recreational use. Washington will allow those at least 21 years old to buy as much as one ounce (28 grams) of marijuana from a licensed retailer. Colorado’s measure allows possession of an ounce, and permits growing as many as six plants in private, secure areas. By legalizing the recreational use of marijuana, the two states became the first in the nation to decriminalize the practice. The drug, however, is still banned under federal law, and the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) wasted little time in disseminating this message to all stakeholders. In a notice of compliance circulated Dec. 3 to agencies under DOT jurisdiction, Jim Swart made clear his agency’s stance on the states’ actions and their impact on individuals who work for entities under DOT oversight. Swart is DOT’s director, Office of the Secretary of Transportation, Office of Drug and Alcohol Policy and Compliance. “We have had several inquiries about whether these state initiatives will have an impact upon the Department of Transportation’s longstanding regulation about the use of marijuana by safety-sensitive transportation employees…,” Swart said in the notice. “We want to make it perfectly clear that the state initiatives will have no bearing on the Department of Transportation’s regulated drug testing program. The Department of Transportation’s Drug and Alcohol Testing Regulation-49 CFR Part 40 does not authorize the use of Schedule 1 drugs, including marijuana, for any reason. “Therefore, Medical Review Officers (MROs) will not verify a drug test as negative based upon learning that the employee used recreational marijuana when states have passed recreational marijuana initiatives.” The notice also restated DOT’s policy that an MRO will not verify a drug test as negative based on information that a physician recommended that the employee use medical marijuana when states have passed medical marijuana laws. “It is important to note that marijuana remains a drug listed in Schedule 1 of the Controlled Substance Act,” the correspondence said. “It remains unacceptable for any safety-sensitive employee subject to drug testing under the Department of Transportation’s drug testing regulations to use marijuana.” ‘Nuts & Bolts’ Of MLC 2006 The MLC’s entry into force will be the culmination of more than 10 years of collective efforts by the ILO and its social partners, which, in this case, have been the ITF, representing seafarers and their unions, and the International Shipping Federation, representing employers. The MLC is regarded as the fourth pillar of shipping regulation, alongside Solas, Marpol and the STCW convention, and is intended to be strictly enforced by flag states and port state control. It should provide a “one-stop shop” for labor standards. This means that all mariners should be able to enjoy protection of their fundamental rights, and ensure good employment practices across the industry. The convention addresses a wide range of matters, including the obligations of shipping companies with respect to seafarers’ contractual arrangements, the responsibilities of manning agencies, working hours, health and safety, existing ILO maritime standards and accepted good-employment practice. Under it, every ship over 500 gross tonnage operating in international waters or between ports of different countries will require a Maritime Labor Certificate issued by its flag administration following an inspection. There will also be a requirement for ships to complete and maintain on board a Declaration of Maritime Labor Compliance. For seafarers the convention sets out the minimum rights that they should expect (although many states that ratify it may have higher standards), and incorporates and builds on 68 existing maritime labor conventions and recommendations, as well as other fundamental principles, to ensure decent working and living conditions. The MLC establishes new concepts and addresses the human factor like no prior maritime instrument. It establishes, for example, the responsibilities of flag states regarding the certification and implementation process, and forces the involvement of shipowners’ and seafarers’ organizations in the legislative process to incorporate the MLC in national maritime legislation…. In addition, it encourages the establishment of port welfare facilities, regulates working and rest hours, training, medical care and the prevention of accidents. The convention will provide seafarers with options on how to report breaches of its regulations. It also seeks to strengthen the port state control system and establish a more balanced maritime industry, where the professionalism and commercial ability of shipping operators will be the basis of their successes. The ITF believes this will be a welcome concept for the majority of operators, who have been undermined in the past by a minority that have been able to achieve lower costs by cutting back on safety and seafarers rights. For more information on how the MLC will positively affect seafarers, see http://www.itfseafarers. org/ILOMLC.cfm Source: International Transport Workers’ Federation March 2013 �BLS Issues Yearly Report on Union Membership Acting Labor Secretary Reinforces Importance of Representation Although this year’s report on union membership from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) showed an overall drop, parts of the document reinforced the advantages of representation – and also showed that in some states, membership grew. According to the report issued Jan. 23, the union membership rate for 2012—the percentage of wage and salary workers who were members of a union—was 11.3 percent in 2012, down from 11.8 percent in 2011. The number of wage and salary workers belonging to unions (14.4 million) also declined during the year, the report said. Membership increased in some states, however, including California, where more than 100,000 new members joined unions last year. Acting Secretary of Labor Seth Harris, in an official statement issued shortly after the BLS report was made public, pointed out union membership still boasts significant tangible advantages. “The data also show that among fulltime wage and salary workers, union members have higher median weekly earnings than nonunion workers,” Harris said. “The median weekly earnings of union members were $943, compared to $742 for nonunion workers. “Other data have shown that union members have greater access to employment-based benefits such as health insurance, a retirement savings plan, and sick and vacation leave,” he continued. “Together, strong wages and benefits are good for workers and good for families. “Union jobs are good jobs,” Secretary Harris’ statement concluded. “They are essential to growing and maintaining a strong middle class, which is vital to the economic health of this country. It is critical that we continue to ensure all people have a voice in the workplace, and protect the right to organize and bargain collectively.” AFL-CIO President Richard Trumka also commented on the report via his own declaration, also issued Jan. 23. “Working women and men urgently need a voice on the job today, but the sad truth is that it has become more difficult for them to have one, as today’s figures on union membership demonstrate,” the federation president noted. “Union membership impacts every other economic outcome that matters to all workers – falling wages, rising health care costs, home foreclosures, the loss of manufacturing jobs and disappearing retirement benefits,” he continued. “Collective action through unions remains the single best way for working people to effect change. But our still-struggling economy, weak laws and political as well as ideological assaults have taken a toll on union membership, and in the process have also imperiled economic security and good, middle class jobs. “What will define the labor movement of the future, however, is not assaults or the changing economy, but how working people come together to respond to them,” Trumka said. “We enter 2013 with our eyes open and understand that these challenges offer real opportunities for working people to reshape the future. “Working families are building community alliances, engaging with young workers and immigrants, fighting right-wing politicians and organizing in innovative ways,” he concluded. “From taxi workers to teachers to nurses to Wal-Mart workers to port workers to freelance writers, working Americans are committed to building a new movement for the future and to creating good jobs and an economy that works for all.” Concisely put, according to a Jan. 23, 2013 Huffington Post column, the BLS numbers mean that just 11.3 percent of workers in the country are covered by union contracts that make it possible for them to have a collective voice over wages, job security, benefits and treatment on the job. U.S. Reps Form Congressional Maritime Caucus Congressman Cedric Richmond (right in photo above, with SIU President Michael Sacco) and Congressman Michael Grimm (photo at right, also with President Sacco) recently announced the formation of a new maritime caucus. Both congressmen spoke at last year’s Maritime Trades Department executive board meeting in Florida, where these photos were taken. March 2013 Seth Harris Acting Labor Secretary Richard Trumka President, AFL-CIO In part, the article said: “We all should be troubled by these numbers because the fall of union membership follows the rise of income inequality in this nation. As Nobel-winning economist Joseph E. Stiglitz argues again and again, until the middle class is strengthened, our economy will be stuck in neutral. And key to a future of shared prosperity, where everyone has the opportunity to work, to secure decent jobs and benefits, and to retire with dignity, is a nation with more union members, a vibrant labor movement and stronger rights at work…. “At first glance, you might think these numbers indicate that workers no longer want or need unions. In reality, workers are trying to organize, but outdated labor laws and anti-union employers are standing in their way. Workers are routinely terminated, harassed, silenced and retaliated against for their union support. CEOs enjoy an economic incentive to fire, threaten, and intimidate workers who support a union. Until we strengthen laws and protections for workers who stand up for a union, significant union density and shared prosperity will be out of reach.” The BLS report found that public-sector workers had a union membership rate (35.9 percent) more than five times higher than that of private-sector workers (6.6 percent). Workers in education, training and library occupations and in protective services occupations had the highest unionization rates, at 35.4 and 34.8 percent, respectively. Additionally, black workers were more likely to be union members that were white, Asian, or Hispanic workers. Among states, New York continued to have the highest union membership rate (23.2 percent), and North Carolina again had the lowest rate (2.9 percent). The SIU welcomed the early February announcement by U.S. Rep. Cedric Richmond (D-La.) and U.S. Rep. Michael Grimm (R-N.Y.) concerning the formation of the bipartisan Congressional Maritime Caucus. In a joint news release, the congressmen said they will co-chair the new caucus, which “will work to raise awareness among members of Congress on a broad range of maritime-related topics. “The maritime industry is the unsung hero of our nation’s economy,” said Rep. Richmond. “From Alaska to Puerto Rico, Louisiana to New York, every day this industry facilitates trade and delivers energy resources that support millions of jobs and pays billions in state and federal taxes every year. I also look forward to highlighting the role other industries play in supporting maritime commerce, be it in the fields of law, engineering, ship- building or insurance.” As noted in the release, America’s ports are vital to the employment of 13.3 million workers nationwide. International trade accounts for more than 25 percent of America’s gross domestic product; U.S. seaport activities generate more than $3.15 trillion in annual economic output, with $3.8 billion worth of goods moving in and out of ports every day around the country. “The maritime industry is at the heart of New York City’s economic vitality – from our thriving shipping industry to the Staten Island Ferry,” said Rep. Grimm. “As the representative of Staten Island and Brooklyn, I am proud to have the New York Container Terminal in my district that employs hundreds of hard-working men and women. I am honored to co-chair the Congressional Maritime Caucus with Rep. Richmond, and look forward to working with him in support of issues that matter most to our nation’s maritime industry.” Both congressmen further pointed out that the maritime industry “has played the vital role of connecting people, goods and information worldwide. Every day, the maritime industry facilitates trade and commerce which, in turn, creates jobs. It delivers energy resources, supports offshore energy exploration, dredges our waterways, secures our borders and supports our military. Onshore, the industry is supported by all manner of professionals in fields such as law, insurance, logistics, ship building and repair, security, environmental science, engineering, management and workforce training.” The Congressional Maritime Caucus “will function as a devoted ally of all components of the maritime industry and will work to raise awareness among members of Congress on a broad range of maritime-related topics,” they added. “I am confident that this caucus will be a voice for the entire maritime industry, one that stresses how critical this industry is to sustaining our economic recovery. I’m proud to have Congressman Michael Grimm as a cochair and I look forward to working with him to ensure that U.S. maritime policy meets the challenges of the 21st century,” Rep Richmond concluded. Seafarers LOG 5 �MSC Streamlines Health Care For CIVMARS Serving Overseas Policy Helps Ensure Immediate Treatment for Illness, Injury The U.S. Military Sealift Command (MSC) is reinstating its policy of providing up-front health care payments to ensure civilian mariners (CIVMARS) are able to receive immediate treatment if they are ill or injured while working abroad. This move reverses a 2011 decision by MSC to no longer provide advance payment to health care providers for CIVMARS needing medical attention abroad. The impact of that decision meant MSC CIVMARS needing medical care overseas found themselves in desperate circumstances when treatment facilities would not take Federal Employee Health Benefits (FEHB) medical insurance. Many facilities refused care without payment by cash or credit card in advance. Upon learning about the 2011 change, SIU officials raised this issue to the highest levels of MSC and exerted every effort to ensure CIVMARS would continue to be protected, despite the change. Rear Adm. Mark Buzby, commander of MSC, agreed with that stance, adding advance medical payments are vital to the safety of CIVMARS around the world. “Immediate access to medical facilities to respond to severe, lifethreatening, or potentially disabling conditions that require immediate medical intervention to prevent undue suffering or loss of life or limb is critical to ensuring the welfare of MSC’s OCONUS employees,” Buzby wrote in a memo to Assistant Navy Secretary Juan Garcia regarding the policy. “It is especially critical for MSC’s CIVMARS to know with certainty that they will be admitted to a medical facility that is near enough to provide emergency care, even in situation(s) where the medical facility is only willing to accept advanced payment.” Of primary importance to SIU Assistant Vice President Chet Wheeler – a 32-year deck department CIVMAR and union shipboard delegate prior to coming ashore – was ensuring no CIVMAR would be refused medical care because insurance coverage was not accepted by the foreign treating facility. Wheeler recalled his own workrelated injury when discussing how important overseas treatment is to federal mariners. “When I was severely injured abroad, access to adequate medical care was critical,” he said. “My shipmates helped me get to the hospital. Being sick or injured away from home is hard enough. We need to make sure that ill or injured CIVMARS are not denied care as a result of a payment problem.” Statistics regarding employees sailing outside the continental United States (OCONUS) show just how needed the advanced payment policy is. According to MSC, more than 4,600 of the 5,500 CIVMARS are assigned to OCONUS duty stations. The vast majority of those – around 4,500 – serve aboard forward-deploying ships that can be sent anywhere in the world on very short notice. As many CIVMARS have discovered, there are no guarantees of a nearby medical facility when an accident or sudden illness happens. In 2011 alone, some 156 CIVMARS were sent back to the U.S. from OCONUS ships for medical reasons, some requiring treatment before they came home. CIVMARS reported to SIU representatives that delays occurred in receiving treatment when the facilities refused to accept patients without a guaranteed source of payment. Under the new advanced payment policy, however, CIVMARS serving overseas can receive cash loans from MSC to ensure immediate access to health care when the need arises, even if they do not have access to facilities that accept FECA, TRICARE or a CIVMAR’S FEHB insurance. CIVMARS are still responsible for paying the loan back. In a memo to the Department of Defense, Garcia said many of the CIVMARS who returned to the U.S. for medical reasons in 2011 would have benefitted from MSC having the authority to grant medical-related loans. The new policy, he added, “will preclude the possibility of life-threatening delay by making cash loans available when no other lawful form of payment is available or acceptable to an OCONUS medical provider.” To learn more about health care plan coverage options go to www. opm.gov/insure/health. Retired Port Agent Jack Allen Dies at 80 Retired SIU Port Agent Jack Allen, who sailed with and worked for the union from 1948 until his retirement in 1991, passed away last year in St. Clair, Mich., following a long illness. He was 80. The St. Clair native started sailing as a teenager in 1948; he spent the next 23 years in the deck department of Lakes vessels including ones operated by Tomlinson Fleet Corp. and Great Lakes Towing. Allen came ashore to work for the SIU in 1971. He held various positions with the union including port agent, safety director and representative. He worked out of the Michigan halls of Detroit, Duluth and Algonac. Until his health began failing, he stayed in contact with the union after retirement, and would stop at the Algonac hall from time to time. SIU Vice President Great Lakes Tom Orzechowski said, “Jack was 6 Seafarers LOG a dedicated SIU man and he kept in touch with the union for many years even after he retired. I know he was a strong believer in the U.S. Merchant Marine and in particular he was committed to our membership.” Daniel Duncan, executive secretary-treasurer of the Maritime Trades Department, AFL-CIO, worked in the union’s communications office when he met Allen. “Jack took me on my first Great Lakes fit-out,” Duncan recalled. “His contact with the members proved invaluable and his knowledge helped me understand Great Lakes shipping. Jack knew the membership and was very dedicated to their causes.” SIU Algonac Safety Director Don Thornton said he didn’t work with Allen but enjoyed getting to know him during his visits to the hall. “He was sharp as a tack right to the end – just a ball of energy, always The late Jack Allen is pictured above and in the center of the group shot, taken aboard the Walter J. McCarthy Jr. Both photos are from Great Lakes fit-out in 1990. doing something, going somewhere,” Thornton remembered. “He didn’t let any grass grow under his feet, that’s for sure. He was very involved in his community, too. I’m glad I had opportunities to meet him.” Allen was a lifetime member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church. Survivors include his wife of 34 years, Gail Allen; three children; five grandchildren; a brother; and many nieces and nephews. An online remembrance said Allen “gave generously to his many friends, local charities and his community. His generous spirit will be greatly missed.” That same obituary noted that after Allen retired from the union, he worked locally from 1995 to 2010 for a company called Auto Anodics, which specializes in finishing aluminum and stainless steel. SIU VP Contracts George Tricker (left) congratulates Commissioner Bill Doyle on his appointment to the FMC. Doyle Joins FMC A former official from the Marine Engineers’ Beneficial Association (MEBA) has been appointed to the U.S. Federal Maritime Commission (FMC). William P. “Bill” Doyle was sworn in on Jan. 10 in Washington, D.C. SIU Vice President Contracts George Tricker and SIU Legislative Director Brian Schoeneman were on hand to congratulate him. In a news release following the ceremony, the commission noted, “Prior to his appointment, Commissioner Doyle served over 20 years in the maritime and transportation industry holding senior positions in executive leadership and operations…. His executive leadership experience includes serving as the chief of staff for the MEBA, which coupled with his experience as an officer in the U.S. Merchant Marine, provides him with a firsthand understanding of how the United States relies on its maritime industry for both military and economic security. “Commissioner Doyle also served in the senior management role of director of permits, scheduling and compliance with the Office of the Federal Coordinator for Alaska Natural Gas Transportation Projects. He managed and directed the permitting and regulatory coordination of 24 federal agencies, numerous state of Alaska agencies and federal and provincial level agencies in Canada. Commissioner Doyle was a lead negotiator on behalf of the federal government in securing cost recovery agreements with private sector national and multinational companies.” A Boston native, Doyle sailed from 1992-2002, including voyages aboard ammunition ships in Diego Garcia, car carriers servicing Europe and the Pacific Rim, tankers delivering jet fuel to Israel, transporting liquid sulfur between U.S. Gulf Coast ports, and in the U.S. Ready Reserve Force fleet aboard vessels in South Carolina. Doyle stated, “I am honored that President Obama nominated and the Senate confirmed me to serve as a commissioner on the Federal Maritime Commission. I look forward to working with my fellow commissioners to promote a fair, efficient, and reliable international ocean transportation system; protect the public from unfair and deceptive practices; help increase the export of U.S. goods by facilitating cooperation between the government and the private sector; provide regulatory relief to support U.S. job growth and economic recovery; and find fast and cost-effective solutions to disputes between shipping lines and customers to ensure that cargo keeps moving.” Chairman Richard Lidinsky said, “I am elated to have Bill Doyle join our agency. With his extensive international maritime operating experience, he will bring a set of fresh eyes to the vital issues that the FMC faces on behalf of the American port, importer, exporter and consumer.” Doyle received his undergraduate degree from the Massachusetts Maritime Academy, and his law degree from the Widener University School of Law in Harrisburg, Pa. The FMC is the independent federal agency responsible for regulating the nation’s international ocean transportation for the benefit of exporters, importers, and the American consumer. The FMC’s mission “is to foster a fair, efficient, and reliable international ocean transportation system while protecting the public from unfair and deceptive practices.” March 2013 �HAPPENINGS IN NORFOLK – AB Adolf Floresca (photo at left) takes the union oath and receives his full book at the hall in Norfolk, Va., while retired QMED William Parker (right in center photo above) is pictured with his wife, Carmen, and Port Agent Georg Kenny. In the remaining photo, Kenny (third from left) joins other labor officials for a day of urging Virginia State Senate and House representatives to support bills favorable to working families. At Sea and Ashore with the SIU FULL BOOKS IN OAKLAND – Seafarers Ryan Tom and Mike Limon, who sail with Starlight Marine, are sworn in at the union hall in Oakland, Calif. Giving the oath at left is SIU Assistant VP Nick Celona. WELCOME ASHORE IN JACKSONVILLE – Longtime Seafarer Alan Maury (left) picks up his first pension check at the Jacksonville, Fla., hall. He is pictured with SIU Assistant VP Archie Ware. Maury most recently sailed as an AB on the Lakes, aboard the John Boland. CATCHING UP ABOARD ROY WHEAT – Bosun Robert Arneel checks out the latest news from the Seafarers LOG aboard the USNS Roy Wheat in mid-January. The ship is operated by Maersk Line, Limited. SAFETY REWARDED ON USNS IMPECCABLE -- Bosun Mustafa Malik (right) and AB Nate Elliot recently received the Maersk Line, Limited safety award from Captain Jennifer Brokaw on the USNS Impeccable. According to a communication from the ship, while they were working on the bow the two Seafarers heard a loud noise; upon investigating it, they discovered an anchor chain detachable link was cracked. “Due to their diligence, ship’s [personnel were] able to secure the anchor and the ship returned to port for repairs.” CONGRESSMAN, SEAFARERS TALK JONES ACT – Seafarers at Crowley’s Petty’s Island facility were visited Jan. 17 by U.S. Rep. Rob Andrews (D-N.J.) (center). During a question-and-answer session, the congressman said he strongly supports the Jones Act, which is a vital maritime law that protects U.S. national and economic security. SIU members in attendance expressed their appreciation for Rep. Andrews’ support; Seafarer Mike Fay (left) presented the congressman with an SIU lapel pin, which he promptly affixed to his jacket. Pictured at right is Seafarer Scott Smith. March 2013 Tell It To The LOG Help us spread the news! Send your photos, stories and news ideas to the LOG for publication consideration. The address is 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. Online submissions may be sent to jbiscardo@seafarers.org; jguthrie@seafarers.org; or bahern@seafarers.org. LONGTIME CAPTAIN RETIRES – Crowley Captain Rick Cavalier (left) recently came ashore following an SIU career that dates to 1978. Congratulating him and presenting a pension check at the hall in Wilmington, Calif., is Port Agent Jeff Turkus. Seafarers LOG 7 �Digest of Shipboard Union Meetings AMERICAN MARINER (American Steamship), October 30 – Chairman Scott Krajniak, Secretary Daniel Kane, Engine Delegate Robert Crosby. Chairman encouraged crew to vote in national and union elections. Absentee forms available in rec room. Also are available are Seafarers 401(k) packets. Chairman urged fellow members to contribute to SPAD and MDL. Secretary reminded mariners to clean rooms and provide clean linens at the end of tour, and also register at your local hall within 72 hours. Educational director encouraged members to upgrade at unionaffiliated school in Piney Point, Md. Deck delegate stated that with winter weather approaching, it’s important to watch for ice on deck. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Next port: Gary, Ind. AMERICAN SPIRIT (American Steamship), November 28 – Chairman Paul Gohs, Secretary Joyce Sufak, Educational Director Mohamed Ahmed, Deck Delegate Resat Diler. Chairman read president’s report from November LOG and encouraged all members to take advantage of winter lay-up to renew their TWIC and other credentials that may otherwise expire. Educational director said upgrading courses from November LOG posted on bulletin board. All members are encouraged to upgrade. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew discussed how the Seafarers Money Purchase Pension Plan works. They asked company to look into alternate Internet provider, as current service is very unreliable. BUFFALO (American Steamship), November 1 – Chairman Abdulmoghni Said, Secretary Walter Wise, Educational Director Ricardas Juska, Deck Delegate Albert Bharrat, Engine Delegate Mused Nasser. Chairman discussed vital importance of voting in national and union elections and helping get out the vote. Secretary reinforced those points and noted availability of absentee ballot information. Educational director encouraged crew to upgrade whenever possible. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew asked for increased dental benefits. They discussed importance of workplace safety and pointed out need for awareness on deck. Better Internet service needed aboard ship. Next port: Zug Island, Detroit. KEN BOOTHE SR. (American Steamship), October 21 – Chairman John Cedeno Jr., Secretary David Joaquin, Educational Director Ronald Bujnovsky. Chairman read president’s report from October LOG and discusses importance of both the union and White House elections. Also reviewed shipping rules for members with different seniority levels. Secretary reminded crew to 8 Seafarers LOG keep current with union dues. He reviewed the reasoning for both SPAD and MDL contributions. Educational director encouraged members to upgrade at Piney Point and also explained some of the many positive things that set the Paul Hall Center apart from other maritime schools. He reminded members to register at the union hall within 72 hours of signing off vessel and also encouraged everyone to keep mariner and TWIC credentials current. Secretary reported $88 remaining in funds due to recent purchases of water cooler, Xbox games and accessories and DVD movies. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew talked about fall protection to be used during cargo-hold rinsing. Chairman thanked deck gang for great safety awareness. Crew asked a couple of contract-related questions and also thanked steward department “for the display of such care in cooking great meals.” With a smile, they also noted the steward purchased plenty of chocolate for Halloween “to keep the gang sugared up.” Next port: Ashtabula, Ohio. MAERSK CAROLINA (Maersk Line, Limited), December 9 – Chairman Brian Fountain, Secretary Ali Matari, Educational Director Grant Schuman, Deck Delegate Daniel Murley, Engine Delegate Thomas Hawks. Under old business, crew indicated they are still awaiting a response concerning eminent danger pay. Chairman reported another safe trip with no beefs and no lost-time injuries, which makes 3,069 days without one. He thanked everyone for doing their jobs in professional and timely fashion, and added special thanks to the steward department. Secretary said the most recent LOG received was the November edition. Members should read each issue because it has the latest news and information on any changes on benefits and shipping rules. Also don’t forget to contribute to SPAD, because when you do, you help yourself as well as your union brothers and sisters. Educational director reminded mariners to get their time in and take advantage of upgrading at union-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Steward delegate thanked deck and engine gangs for helping keep house clean. Crew made a number of detailed suggestions for next contract, some of which pertained to benefits. Next ports: Newark, N.J., Charleston, S.C., and Norfolk, Va. MAERSK IDAHO (Maersk Line, Limited), December 7 – Chairman Timothy Girard, Secretary Zein Achmad, Educational Director Troy Ancar, Deck Delegate Simeon Rivas, Engine Delegate Roman Zarkiewicz. Chairman reported smooth voyage with excellent The Seafarers LOG attempts to print as many digests of union shipboard minutes as possible. On occasion, because of space limitations, some will be omitted. Ships’ minutes first are reviewed by the union’s contract department. Those issues requiring attention or resolution are addressed by the union upon receipt of the ships’ minutes. The minutes are then forwarded to the Seafarers LOG for publication. Christmas Aboard Maersk Wyoming Capt. William J. Dutour, master aboard the Maersk Wyoming, submitted these photos “of my SIU crew members enjoying Christmas at sea.” In photo above, Chief Steward Andy Hagan (left) and SA Mario Clotter “proudly show the feast awaiting the hungry crew.” The photo below includes Bosun Roan Lightfoot, AB James Coleman, AB Josef Dudas, AB Felix Garcia, QMED Reynaldo Lacayo and DEU Samuel Eshun. SIU crew and great morale. Special thanks to daymen, QMED and DEU who exemplify “great work ethic and SIU being the best!” Educational director recommended upgrading at Piney Point and checking expiration dates on all documents. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew suggested lowering retirement age and increasing pension pay. Next port: Port Elizabeth, N.J. OVERSEAS NIKISKI (OSG), November 20 – Chairman Aristeo Padua, Secretary Franchesca Rose, Steward Delegate Teresito Reyes. Chairman thanked crew for job well done and reminded everyone to keep documents current and keep union business within the union. Secretary thanked galley gang for their effort. Educational director said clarification being sought concerning STCW Basic Safety Training for steward department personnel. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew read letter from SIU President Michael Sacco concerning company. Crew referred to attached letter submitted with meeting minutes concerning possible misin- terpretation of contract item. Bosun and entire crew thanked steward department for job well done. SAM LAUD (American Steamship), October 19 – Chairman Jeremy Shenett, Secretary Nabil Ahmed, Educational Director Timothy Orban, Deck Delegate Cody Fox, Engine Delegate Michael Lau. Chairman discussed national and union elections and importance of voting. Secretary reminded everyone to make sure their MMC, TWIC, passport, drug test and medical card is up-todate and allow plenty of time for renewals. Educational director encouraged fellow members to upgrade at Piney Point as often as possible. Deck delegate reported beef involving use of earpiece. No other beefs or disputed OT reported. Next port: Cleveland. SEALAND EAGLE (Maersk Line, Limited), December 8 – Chairman Ronald Mena, Secretary Johnnie McGill, Educational Director Ronald Pheneuf, Steward Delegate Bridgett McIntosh. Chairman reported good trip and thanked steward department for a great Thanksgiving spread. Educa- tional director covered changes in new contract and reviewed safety procedures. Disputed OT reported in steward department; no other beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew was reminded not to lock weather doors at sea. Also, close all portholes before leaving your area. WALTER J. MCCARTHY JR. (American Steamship), October 31 – Chairman Saleh Ahmed, Secretary Mark Kotajarvi, Educational Director Floyd Larson. Chairman raised question about OT and also reminded crew to utilize proper channels for dispute resolution. He said some winter gear has arrived and more is scheduled to be taken aboard within the next two weeks. He pointed out the union endorsed Barack Obama for reelection. Educational director encouraged members to upgrade at Piney Point. Deck delegate asked about getting humidifiers for rooms. Steward delegate thanked mariners for keeping crew mess clean at night. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew discussed importance of keeping TWICs current. They said TV in rec room is very old and doesn’t work properly. Crew thanked cook for good job. March 2013 �SHBP Offers COBRA Continuation Coverage To Union Members The Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan (SHBP) would like to notify you of the right to elect to purchase continuation of health coverage if you lose coverage, or experience a reduction in coverage due to certain qualifying events. This continuation of coverage is known as COBRA. Generally, if you are the employee, you will be eligible to purchase COBRA coverage for a certain period of time if you lost coverage because you did not have enough days of covered employment (unless the job was lost due to gross misconduct). If you are the family member of a covered employee, you may also elect COBRA for a certain period of time when the employee loses coverage; or if you are going to lose coverage because of a divorce or the death of the employee; or in the case of a child of an employee, the child reaches an age at which the Plan no longer considers him or her to be a “dependent child.” In the case of a divorce or the death of an employee, you must notify the Plan within 60 days of the divorce or death in order to be eligible to purchase continuation coverage. If you do not notify the Plan in a timely manner, you may not be eligible to receive further coverage. If you are the spouse or dependent child of an employee, you may also elect COBRA if you experience a reduction in coverage when the employee retires. When you retire, if you were eligible for benefits from the SHBP at the time of your retirement, you will be eligible to purchase COBRA continuation coverage for yourself and/or your family members, even if you are eligible for retiree health benefits. This will enable you and/or your family to continue to receive the same level of benefits that you had prior to your retirement for a certain period of time. If you meet the eligibility requirements for retiree health benefits, you will begin to receive those benefits when the COBRA period ends. For more information about continuation coverage rights under COBRA, please refer to the Plan’s “Guide to Your Benefits.” The guide is also available in PDF format on the SIU website, www.seafarers.org, under “Member Benefits-Seafarers Benefit Plans-Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan.” If you have questions regarding this notice or COBRA, contact the Plan at 1 (800) 252-4674. April & May 2013 Membership Meetings Piney Point.............................................Monday: April 8, May 6 Algonac...................................................Friday: April 12, May 10 Baltimore..............................................Thursday: April 11, May 9 Guam.............................................Thursday: April 25, May 23 Honolulu...............................................Friday: April 19, May 17 Houston...............................................Monday: April 15, May 13 Jacksonville.......................................Thursday: April 11, May 9 Joliet................................................Thursday: April 18, May 16 Mobile..........................................Wednesday: April 17, May 15 New Orleans...........................................Tuesday: April 16, May 14 New York.......................................Tuesday: April 9, May 7 Norfolk...............................................Thursday: April 11, May 9 Oakland...........................................Thursday: April 18, May 16 Philadelphia...................................Wednesday: April 10, May 8 Port Everglades................................Thursday: April 18, May 16 San Juan..............................................Thursday: April 11, May 9 St. Louis.................................................Friday: April 19, May 17 Tacoma..................................................Friday: April 26, May 24 Wilmington..............................................Monday: April 22, May 20 Each port’s meeting starts at 10:30 a.m. Attention Seafarers: Contribute To The Seafarers Political Activities Donation SPAD March 2013 Dispatchers’ Report for Deep Sea January 16, 2013 - February 11, 2013 Port Total Registered All Groups A B C Total Shipped All Groups Trip A B C Reliefs Deck Department Registered on Beach All Groups A B C Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS 17 17 2 1 1 0 0 40 27 4 3 3 0 0 1 0 0 5 4 3 5 0 1 5 1 2 1 8 3 2 14 9 5 20 7 5 7 26 24 10 3 4 2 1 2 0 0 6 6 2 12 2 1 5 6 0 1 13 5 3 34 12 3 37 8 0 17 83 27 9 22 14 2 20 11 1 12 57 37 1 3 7 1 0 1 0 1 10 12 3 14 3 0 5 1 0 1 26 6 1 5 2 1 10 1 1 4 17 5 1 33 22 3 29 8 2 9 87 28 6 12 19 6 11 16 1 8 35 40 9 20 5 1 12 3 0 4 39 12 4 7 2 0 4 3 0 0 10 5 0 1 2 0 0 1 0 0 2 5 0 5 8 0 8 4 2 3 20 15 4 26 17 0 22 9 0 9 77 30 4 2 3 2 4 2 0 2 7 6 3 31 19 3 19 12 1 11 79 45 3 269 170 33 213 98 15 90 647 342 72 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS Engine Department 8 5 3 0 0 0 0 11 10 3 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 2 4 2 1 3 0 3 2 0 1 6 10 3 7 2 1 3 3 1 0 20 8 1 3 0 0 1 0 0 0 4 0 0 9 3 0 5 3 1 0 15 6 3 18 6 1 8 3 0 4 39 16 3 15 7 2 21 6 1 9 43 30 5 4 3 1 0 0 0 0 8 7 1 4 0 0 0 0 0 0 13 4 1 1 1 0 2 1 0 0 6 4 0 8 12 2 8 8 1 6 25 24 8 8 14 2 6 4 2 5 23 30 4 9 3 0 6 2 0 1 17 9 3 3 0 0 2 0 0 1 7 5 1 4 3 0 3 0 0 0 2 3 0 2 5 1 3 3 0 0 3 11 1 12 3 0 12 2 0 6 25 13 2 1 1 0 2 1 0 0 2 4 3 7 8 2 2 5 0 3 24 21 5 124 80 15 87 43 6 36 295 219 49 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS Steward Department 6 2 1 0 0 0 0 9 6 2 0 3 0 0 0 0 0 0 3 0 5 0 0 0 0 0 0 8 3 0 7 1 1 10 0 2 6 12 1 2 2 1 0 2 0 0 0 5 2 0 8 3 1 12 3 1 3 19 3 0 14 8 2 14 7 2 12 26 12 2 14 7 1 8 7 1 7 32 12 1 3 2 0 0 0 0 0 4 4 1 6 1 3 4 2 1 1 14 1 3 3 1 0 2 2 0 3 9 1 0 17 6 0 9 3 0 4 35 11 0 11 9 1 13 5 0 7 18 17 3 15 3 0 9 1 0 3 24 4 2 1 0 0 3 0 0 0 3 0 0 3 2 0 1 1 0 1 6 4 0 0 0 0 2 1 0 1 5 3 0 12 5 3 9 3 1 2 29 6 2 1 1 0 0 0 0 0 3 4 0 32 1 1 7 1 0 4 62 4 2 160 56 14 105 36 8 54 323 101 20 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS Entry Other 2 21 11 0 0 0 0 4 34 21 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 0 1 1 0 1 2 0 0 1 2 0 5 1 1 3 3 2 0 11 5 0 1 0 0 1 0 0 0 3 1 0 8 9 1 2 5 0 5 14 19 2 11 3 3 11 1 2 2 17 4 4 8 11 1 3 3 0 5 17 26 1 2 1 0 0 0 0 1 4 4 0 2 1 0 0 0 0 2 5 2 1 1 0 0 1 1 1 2 3 5 2 19 3 5 11 2 0 12 51 19 1 10 14 1 8 7 0 1 29 44 5 10 7 1 5 2 0 7 24 13 1 0 1 0 1 1 0 1 1 4 0 1 1 0 0 3 1 0 3 1 0 0 1 1 1 1 0 3 0 3 5 7 4 4 6 1 2 11 13 12 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 2 12 9 2 7 3 2 10 31 31 26 120 78 20 61 35 10 66 263 217 GRAND TOTAL: 579 426 140 425 238 64 190 1,331 925 358 Seafarers LOG 9 �Alaska Tanker Company President and CEO Anil Mathur (standing in photo above) speaks to Seafarers during the the week-long Alaska Tanker Company-SIU Extended Leadership Training Conference at the union-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. ATC Returns to Piney Point for Safety Conference S eafarers from union-contracted Alaska Tanker Company (ATC) participated in safety training during a January visit to the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education (PHC) in Piney Point, Md. “It’s good to know the school is continuing to develop and give us new training,” said QMED Ruben Toledo, who was among the 17 mariners honing their skills at the school’s week-long ATC-SIU Extended Leadership Training Conference. “It makes us better prepared for the world out there.” Firefighting Instructor Joe Zienda said the training helps the mariners master new safety skills while also helping instructors find out more about what the mariners are experiencing at sea. “They’re the ones out there doing it all the time,” Zienda said. “We learn a lot of stuff from them that we can incorporate into our program.” Covering topics such as advanced marine firefighting and high voltage safety, the conference was seen as a great opportunity by the mariners. QMED Rollin Crump said he’s experienced fires at sea before and was especially glad to take part in the firefighting training. “You’ve got to respect the fires. They can bite you,” he said. “This makes you look at the whole picture more. It makes you look at the things you might get complacent with.” ATC President and CEO Anil Mathur said such training is vital to mariners’ safety at sea, adding the PHC is among the best schools in the world. “In an emergency, people generally react the same way they are trained, so it was very important for these guys to get the feel of it,” Mathur said. “I’m completely impressed by (SIU President) Mike (Sacco), (SIU Executive Vice President) Augie (Tellez) and the school’s leadership.” Recognizing the PHC’s ability to stay on top of the most advanced methods and technology, ATC has spent the last few years holding semi-annual training and leadership conferences at the school. The goal has been to keep mariners up to date on the latest safety and regulatory training. “The school has been on the leading edge of new rules and regulations and that results in the ATC crews getting trained in a timely fashion,” said Bill Cole, ATC’s labor relations director. “It’s a great facility to train at. The instructors are highly qualified and they provide high-quality education.” The excellent training provided by the PHC, Cole added, was reflected in ATC’s stellar safety record. The company takes safety very seriously and recently completed a decade “without spilling a single drop of crude oil into the sea.” “That (record of safety) requires the most highly trained and qualified individuals,” Cole said. “And we get that training from Piney Point.” The mariners appreciate the training as well. To them, it’s about having the ability to keep themselves and their shipmates safe. “The training is great because it’s so realistic,” said AB Arnel Resureccion. “You get more confident.” DEU Mel Crespo said he was thrilled to be among those taking part in the training. “This is a privilege for us,” he said, adding that the training makes for confident Seafarers who are able to handle any at-sea issue. “It will make you better prepared. It gives you the guts to do it,” he said. In addition to those previously mentioned, the following Seafarers also attended the training conference: AB Donny Castillo, Bosun Philip Corl, AB Manuel Enrico, AB Manuel Espinoza, QMED Odilio Evora, AB Bonifacio Fortes, AB Christopher Gonseth, Bosun Gregory Hamilton, QMED Detricke Kelly, Bosun Jose Loureiro, AB Christopher Rosado and QMED Gary Torres. Seafarers from SIU-contracted Alaska Tanker Company (photo above, the two at right and the two below at left) participate in firefighting training. Seafarers, instructors and company officials pose during the week-long gathering in Piney Point, Md. 10 Seafarers LOG 15043_MARCH2K13LOG_X.indd 10-11 March 2013 March 2013 Seafarers LOG 11 2/15/2013 10:43:18 AM �Inquiring Seafarer Seafarers International Union Directory Michael Sacco, President Augustin Tellez, Executive Vice President David Heindel, Secretary-Treasurer George Tricker, Vice President Contracts Tom Orzechowski, Vice President Lakes and Inland Waters Dean Corgey, Vice President Gulf Coast Nicholas J. Marrone, Vice President West Coast Joseph T. Soresi, Vice President Atlantic Coast Kermett Mangram, Vice President Government Services HEADQUARTERS 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746 (301) 899-0675 ALGONAC 520 St. Clair River Dr., Algonac, MI 48001 (810) 794-4988 ANCHORAGE 721 Sesame St., #1C, Anchorage, AK 99503 (907) 561-4988 BALTIMORE 2315 Essex St., Baltimore, MD 21224 (410) 327-4900 GUAM P.O. Box 3328, Hagatna, Guam 96932 Cliffline Office Ctr. Bldg., Suite 103B 422 West O’Brien Dr., Hagatna, Guam 96910 (671) 477-1350 HONOLULU 606 Kalihi St., Honolulu, HI 96819 (808) 845-5222 HOUSTON 1221 Pierce St., Houston, TX 77002 (713) 659-5152 JACKSONVILLE 5100 Belfort Rd., Jacksonville, FL 32256 (904) 281-2622 JOLIET 10 East Clinton St., Joliet, IL 60432 (815) 723-8002 MOBILE 1640 Dauphin Island Pkwy, Mobile, AL 36605 (251) 478-0916 Jamar Harley AB I started five years ago, Class 711. I love everything about it. It’s a good way of living, a good career. I like the water and seeing different places. Editor’s note: This month’s question was asked of crew members from Crowley’s new tanker Florida, before the vessel christening ceremony in Philadelphia. Question: When did you enter this line of work and what are some things you like about the job? John Lamprecht Recertified Bosun I first went to Piney Point in 1974. I enjoy working closely with people and demonstrating organizational skills and trying to make things go as smoothly as possible. That’s kind of gratifying. Ann Mensch Oiler I started about two years ago and have been upgrading. My goal for the moment is to get my electrician endorsement. I like the lifestyle: good money, good people, a little bit more independence. Marvin Davis SA I started seven years ago and I’ve been on four car carriers: the Independence, Honor, Liberty and Integrity. I like sailing, meeting different people. I like the travel. Brandon Albro AB I got in about 2009, in Class 727. I like the fact it’s a good-paying job and you can see a lot of the world. You meet different people and can work for different companies. That pretty much sums it up. Kevin Tyson OMU I started in December 2004, in Piney Point. I like the travelling, the money, time off on vacation. You learn a lot of stuff out there that you can apply to land jobs, too, which is kind of nice. Troy Banks Chief Pumpman I got into it in 1994 – I’m ex-Navy. I like the travel and the blocks of time off. I can schedule things for myself. I enjoy the routine. Pics-From-The-Past NEW ORLEANS 3911 Lapalco Blvd., Harvey, LA 70058 (504) 328-7545 NEW YORK 635 Fourth Ave., Brooklyn, NY 11232 (718) 499-6600 Government Services Division: (718) 499-6600 NORFOLK 115 Third St., Norfolk, VA 23510 (757) 622-1892 OAKLAND 1121 7th St., Oakland, CA 94607 (510) 444-2360 PHILADELPHIA 2604 S. 4 St., Philadelphia, PA 19148 (215) 336-3818 PINEY POINT P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674 (301) 994-0010 PORT EVERGLADES 1221 S. Andrews Ave., Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33316 (954) 522-7984 SANTURCE 1057 Fernandez Juncos Ave., Stop 16 Santurce, PR 00907 (787) 721-4033 ST. LOUIS/ALTON 4581 Gravois Ave., St. Louis, MO 63116 (314) 752-6500 TACOMA 3411 South Union Ave., Tacoma, WA 98409 (253) 272-7774 WILMINGTON 510 N. Broad Ave., Wilmington, CA 90744 (310) 549-4000 Retiree George Jordanides submitted these photos from trips aboard the tanker USNS Richard G. Matthiesen that took place in 1991 and 1992. Clockwise from lower left: AB Harry Johns, AB Marc Taylor, AB Taylor again, Chief Cook Bill Smith. If anyone has a vintage union-related photograph he or she would like to share with other Seafarers LOG readers, please send it to the Seafarers LOG, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. Photographs will be returned, if so requested. High-resolution digital images may be sent to webmaster@seafarers.org 12 Seafarers LOG March 2013 �Welcome Ashore Each month, the Seafarers LOG pays tribute to the SIU members who have devoted their working lives to sailing aboard U.S.-flag vessels on the deep seas, inland waterways or Great Lakes. Listed below are brief biographical sketches of those members who recently retired from the union. The brothers and sisters of the SIU thank those members for a job well done and wish them happiness and good health in the days ahead. DEEP SEA DIONISIO BATIZ Brother Dionisio Batiz, 65, became an SIU member in 1998 while in Fort Lauderdale, Fla. He initially worked in the inland division with Moran Towing of Texas. Brother Batiz was born in Honduras. He attended classes in 1999 at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. Brother Batiz sailed in the deck and engine departments. His final trip to sea was aboard the Sulphur Enterprise. Brother Batiz makes his home in Miami. JIMMY CORDOVA Brother Jimmy Cordova, 67, was born in Honduras. He began sailing with the union in 1992 from the port of New York. Brother Cordova’s first ship was the Lawrence Gianella; his last was the Japan. The steward department member attended classes on two occasions at the maritime training center in Piney Point, Md. Brother Cordova lives in Palm Springs, Fla. ALEJO FABIA Brother Carlos Boiser, 66, joined the union in 1981 in the port of Wilmington, Calif. The steward department member was born in the Philippines. Brother Boiser first sailed on the Manhattan. He upgraded frequently at the Piney Point school. Brother Boiser most recently shipped aboard the Singapore. He calls Carson, Calif., home. Brother Alejo Fabia, 65, donned the SIU colors in 1984 while in San Francisco. He originally sailed aboard the Independence. Brother Fabia shipped in the steward department. In 1996 and 1999, he upgraded at the Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md. Brother Fabia’s most recent trip was on the Horizon Enterprise. He was born in Manila and now resides in Hilo, Hawaii. JAPHETH BOWMAN ROBERT FUNK CARLOS BOISER Brother Japheth Bowman, 65, started sailing with the Seafarers in 2003. He was originally employed with Maersk Line, Limited. Brother Bowman was a deck department member. His last ship was the Cape Diamond. Brother Bowman is a resident of New Orleans. ROBERT BUTLER Brother Robert Butler, 65, joined the SIU ranks in 1972. His first ship was the Falcon Countess; his most recent, the USNS Stockham. Brother Butler worked in the deck department. In 2001, he took advantage of educational opportunities available at the union-affiliated school in Maryland. Brother Butler resides in Oakland, Calif. JOSEPH COLANGELO Brother Joseph Colangelo, 58, signed on with the SIU in 1972. The New York-born mariner initially shipped on the Connecticut as a member of the engine department. Brother Colangelo enhanced his skills often at the Paul Hall Center. He concluded his career aboard the Horizon Producer as a deck department member. Brother Colangelo settled in Jacksville, Fla. March 2013 Brother Robert Funk, 63, joined the Seafarers in 1974. The deck department member’s earliest trip was on a Hudson Waterway’s Corporation vessel. Brother Funk enhanced his skills frequently at the Piney Point school. His most recent ship was the Eagle. Brother Funk makes his home in Jacksonville, Fla. ERNESTO GONZAGA Brother Ernesto Gonzaga, 66, began sailing with the union in 1989. He initially shipped aboard the Independence. Brother Gonzaga sailed in the steward department. He attended classes on two occasions at the SIUaffiliated school in Piney Point, Md. Brother Gonzaga most recently sailed on the Observation Island. He is a resident of Honolulu. JENNINGS HOCKMAN Brother Jennings Hockman, 71, joined the SIU in 1964 while in Baltimore. His first trip was with Calmar Steamship Corporation. Brother Hockman upgraded in 1964 at one of the old Furus- eth training centers and again in 1977 at the school in Piney Point, Md. He last worked in the deck department aboard the Atlantic. He calls Winchester, Va., home. the Piney Point school. Brother Maher’s most recent ship was the Horizon Reliance. He makes his home in Alton, Mo. HENRY MANNING Brother Henry Manning, 64, began sailing with the SIU in 1967. He first sailed on the Ocean Pioneer. Brother Manning was a frequent upgrader at the maritime training center in Piney Point, Md. He worked in the steward department. Prior to his retirement, Brother Manning sailed aboard the Charleston Express. He calls Houston home. WILLIAM JACOBS Brother William Jacobs, 67, became an SIU member in 1989. His earliest trip was on the USNS Contender; his most recent was aboard the USNS Loyal. Brother Jacobs sailed in the deck department. He lives in Philadelphia. JOHN NICHOLS MAHMOUD KHALIL Brother Mahmoud Khalil, 66, signed on with the Seafarers in 2000 while in San Francisco. He first worked on the Patriot. Brother Khalil enhanced his seafaring abilities in 2002 at the Paul Hall Center. A member of the engine department, he was last employed aboard the Pfc. Dewayne T. Williams. Brother Khalil resides in Vallejo, Calif. PATRICK MAHER Brother Patrick Maher, 65, started sailing with the union in 1991. The engine department member’s earliest trip was on the Independence. He often took advantage of educational opportunities at Brother John Nichols, 68, joined the SIU in 1990 while in Houston. He sailed as a member of the deck department. Brother Nichols’ first trip was with V Ships Maritime. He upgraded in 1995 and 2001 at the unionaffiliated school in Piney Point, Md. Brother Nichols last sailed aboard the Liberty Pride. He is a resident of Galveston, Texas. MICHAEL PRICE Brother Michael Price, 69, was born in Bremerton, Wash. He began sailing with the SIU in 2003 in Seattle. Brother Price originally worked on the TYCO Decisive. In 2003 and 2005, he took advantage of educational opportunities at the union- affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. Brother Price sailed in the deck department. His most recent trip was aboard the Pacific Tracker. Brother Price settled in Everett, Wash. MILTON SERIL Brother Milton Seril, 66, signed on with the union in 2002 while in the port of Wilmington, Calif. He originally worked on the Grand Canyon State. Brother Seril is a native of the Philippines. He sailed in the deck department. Brother Seril was most recently employed aboard the USNS Curtiss. He lives in Norwalk, Calif. JAMES SHEPARD Brother James Shepard, 78, donned the SIU colors in 1993 in Honolulu. His earliest trip was on the Spirit. Brother Shepard was a deck department member. He upgraded often at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Shepard last worked aboard the Horizon Reliance. He resides in Honolulu. Continued on Page 14 This Month In SIU History Editor’s note: The following items are reprinted from previous editions of the Seafarers LOG 1942 The first annual convention of the Seafarers International Union of North America was held in San Francisco. In addition to acting on the large number of proposals designed to strengthen the international, the convention also unanimously chose Harry Lundeberg as president of SIUNA. Elected Executive Secretary-Treasurer was Tex Skinner. 1948 Another victory for the Seafarers International Union was chalked up today when five steamship companies agreed to the union’s wage increase demand. The pay hikes ranged from $10.52 per month for ordinary seamen, messmen and utility men, to $32.27 for bosuns. The overtime rate was also revised upward and now stands between $1.12 and $1.41 per hour. The new increases gave Seafarers the highest pay in the history of the maritime industry. 1975 With more than 1.2 million tons of U.S.-flag tankers laid up for lack of cargo, and thousands of American seamen and shipyard workers add- ing to the nation’s unemployment crisis, maritime leaders met with President Gerald Ford this month to urge the administration to take immediate action to prevent a total collapse of the industry. SIU President Paul Hall submitted two proposals during the meeting which could bring immediate relief to our industry: A presidential order requiring oil importers to use U.S.built and U.S.-manned tankers for oil products coming into the United States; and a presidential order granting an exemption from import fees to importers using American-built and Americanmanned vessels. 1984 A brand new, nationwide effort spearheaded by the SIU and backed by the Maritime Trades Department to reverse the decline of the U.S. merchant fleet is about to get underway. The Seafarers grassroots political program of 1984 is designed to make the candidates and public aware and concerned about the need for a strong merchant fleet and a healthy American economy. The strength of this grassroots campaign is the people. SIU, UIW and MTD members and their relatives will be recruited to attend rallies, go to community meetings and generally educate the public and candidates about the union’s proposals and programs. Seafarers LOG 13 �Welcome Ashore Each month, the Seafarers LOG pays tribute to the SIU members who have devoted their working lives to sailing aboard U.S.-flag vessels on the deep seas, inland waterways or Great Lakes. Listed below are brief biographical sketches of those members who recently retired from the union. The brothers and sisters of the SIU thank those members for a job well done and wish them happiness and good health in the days ahead. Continued from Page 13 WILLY SMITH Brother Willy Smith, 65, became an SIU member in 2001 during the SIU/NMU merger. Brother Smith worked mainly with Horizon Lines and Alaska Tanker Company as a QMED. The engine department member makes his home in Port Orchard, Wash. JIMMIE THOMAS Brother Jimmie Thomas, 65, started sailing with the Seafarers in 1991. The engine department member was born in Baton Rouge, La. Brother Thomas’ earliest trip was on the Cape Clear. He frequently enhanced his skills at the Piney Point school. Brother Thomas’s most recent ship was the Lawrence Gianella. He lives in San Diego. JUAN TORRES Brother Juan Torres, 65, joined the SIU in 1997 in the port of Houston. His first ship was the Cleveland; his most recent, the Overseas Maremar. Brother Torres was a native of Chile and sailed in the deck department. In 2000 he attended classes at the maritime training center in Piney Point, Md. Brother Torres calls Katy, Texas, home. JAMES TRIASSI Brother James Triassi, 65, joined the union in 1977 while in the port of New York. His earliest trip was aboard the Boston. Brother Triassi was born in New York and worked in the deck department. He upgraded on two occasions at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Triassi most recently shipped on the Maersk Utah. He lives in Washingtonville, N.Y. CHARLES WHITEHEAD Brother Charles Whitehead, 58, signed on with the Seafarers in 1979. His first voyage was aboard the Puerto Rico. Brother Whitehead was a deck department member. He enhanced his skills in 1979 and 2001 at the union-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. Brother Whitehead’s most recent ship was the Maersk Utah. He makes his home in Jacksonville, Fla. LANCE ZOLLNER Brother Lance Zollner, 56, was born in East Saint Louis, Ill. He became an SIU member in 1977, initially sailing on the Overseas Ulla. Brother Zollner worked in the deck department, most recently aboard the Endurance. He upgraded often at the Piney Point school. Brother Zollner lives in Seattle. INLAND MARK COLLIER Brother Mark Collier, 63, joined the union in 1973. The deck department member primarily worked with Alabama Pilots Inc. Brother Collier resides in Coden, Ala. DREWRY LITTLE Brother Drewry Little, 66, donned the SIU colors in 1976 while in Norfolk, Va. The Virginia native sailed in the deck department. Brother Little last shipped with McAllister Towing of Virginia. He calls Chesapeake, Va., home. FRANK MESSICK Brother Frank Messick, 58, began his SIU career in 1990. He was originally employed with McAllister Towing of Philadelphia. Brother Messick worked in the deck department. He attended classes frequently at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Messick’s final trip was on the Padre Island. He continues to live in his native state of New Jersey. JAMES WOODS Brother James Woods, 58, joined the SIU ranks in 1994. He worked in both the deck and engine departments. Brother Woods was born in Virginia. He most recently shipped with Allied Transportation Company. Brother Woods upgraded on two occasions at the Piney Point school. He is a resident of Charlotte County, Va. GREAT LAKES JAMES SHUPERT Brother James Shupert, 58, was born in Michigan. He joined the union in 1972. Brother Shupert’s first ship was the Lewis G. Harriman; his most recent was the Sam Laud. He sailed in both the deck and engine departments. Brother Shupert upgraded at the Paul Hall Center in 2008. He settled in Alpena, Mich. SALIM YAHYA Brother Salim Yahya, 65, signed on with the union in 1988. He initially sailed on the Paul H. Townsend. Brother Yahya was born in Yemen. He worked in both the engine and deck departments. In 1999 and 2007, Brother Yahya enhanced his skills at the SIU-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. He last shipped aboard the Adam E. Cornelius. Brother Yahya makes his home in Dearborn, Mich. First JHSV Anchors in St. Petersburg The Navy’s first joint high-speed vessel, the Seafarers-crewed USNS Spearhead (above), was scheduled to visit the Port of St. Petersburg, Fla., last month as this edition went to press. According to the Military Sealift Command, the port call “is primarily a working visit and an opportunity for senior officials and military personnel from U.S. Central Command and U.S. Special Operations Command to visit the ship and receive short briefings on Spearhead’s capabilities.” The vessel – one of 10 planned JHSVs – is crewed in the unlicensed slots by members of the SIU Government Services Division. Overall, the first four JHSVs will be crewed by CIVMARS while the other six will be manned by seafarers employed by operating companies under contract to MSC. 14 Seafarers LOG March 2013 �Global Sentinel Crew Turns Fluky Find Into Heartfelt Philanthropic Opportunity Editor’s note: The crew of the Tyco cable ship Global Sentinel submitted the following article and the pendant photo. We added the crew list; any omissions are inadvertent. On January 23, 2013 on board the cable ship Global Sentinel, homeported in Portland, Oregon, the two pendants pictured with this story were found by Bosun Mate Rayann Williams. The pendants fell out of a pajama shirt pocket from a bundle of cut-up rags purchased and delivered from ashore for the deck department’s use. Bosun Mate Williams showed the discovery to ship’s Bosun Tim Fogg. Noting the obvious wear and aging of the pendants, the bosun became curious enough to research them on the internet. Tim discovered their origins were from the Mercy Home for Boys and This file photo of the ship (by Todd Walsh) shows the Global Sentinel launching a plow that’s used to bury cable beneath the sea floor’s surface. Girls located in Chicago. He further discovered the pendants were cast and distributed between 1887 and 1962. Members sent these pendants and a monetary donation to Mercy Home for Boys and Girls, a children’s charity dedicated to providing solutions for at-risk kids in Chicago. Tim contacted the home, informing them of the discovery and checking any possibility of returning them to the owner. He was informed the pendants were received by financial donors and that locating an owner would be impossible. With the wonderment of how the pendants managed to make onto the ship to be discovered, he decided to continue their journey and add a purpose to it. He started up a collection for the Mercy Home for Boys and Girls and gathered $450 in donations from the ship’s crew and officers. He once again contacted the home (this time by mail), returning the pendants and the money collected for donation. God Bless, From the Crew of the CS Global Sentinel Seafarers aboard the ship included Recertified Bosun Fogg, Bosun Mate Williams, AB Justin Beal, OS Rizalito Frigillana, Chief Electrician Lothar Wick, OMUs Kenneth Adams, Johnny Carson, Manuel Lata and Bryan Field, MDR Douglas Rogers, GVAs Ahmed Shamman and Diomedes Vigo, Chief Steward Vicki Haggerty, Chief Cook Robert Haggerty, and SA Abdullah Nasser. Know Your Rights FINANCIAL REPORTS. The Constitution of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District makes specific provision for safeguarding the membership’s money and union finances. The constitution requires a detailed audit by certified public accountants every year, which is to be submitted to the membership by the secretary-treasurer. A yearly finance committee of rank-and-file members, elected by the membership, each year examines the finances of the union and reports fully their findings and recommendations. Members of this committee may make dissenting reports, specific recommendations and separate findings. TRUST FUNDS. All trust funds of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District are administered in accordance with the provisions of various trust fund agreements. All these agreements specify that the trustees in charge of these funds shall equally consist of union and management representatives and their alternates. All expenditures and disbursements of trust funds are made only upon approval by a majority of the trustees. All trust fund financial records are available at the headquarters of the various trust funds. SHIPPING RIGHTS. A member’s shipping rights and seniority are protected exclusively by contracts between the union and the employers. Members should get to know their shipping rights. Copies of these contracts are posted and available in all union halls. If members believe there have been violations of their shipping or seniority rights as contained in the contracts between the union and the employers, they should notify the Seafarers Appeals Board by certified mail, return receipt March 2013 requested. The proper address for this is: Augustin Tellez, Chairman Seafarers Appeals Board 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 Full copies of contracts as referred to are available to members at all times, either by writing directly to the union or to the Seafarers Appeals Board. CONTRACTS. Copies of all SIU contracts are available in all SIU halls. These contracts specify the wages and conditions under which an SIU member works and lives aboard a ship or boat. Members should know their contract rights, as well as their obligations, such as filing for overtime (OT) on the proper sheets and in the proper manner. If, at any time, a member believes that an SIU patrolman or other union official fails to protect their contractual rights properly, he or she should contact the nearest SIU port agent. EDITORIAL POLICY — THE SEAFARERS LOG. The Seafarers LOG traditionally has refrained from publishing any article serving the political purposes of any individual in the union, officer or member. It also has refrained from publishing articles deemed harmful to the union or its collective membership. This established policy has been reaffirmed by membership action at the September 1960 meetings in all constitutional ports. The responsibility for Sea­farers LOG policy is vested in an editorial board which consists of the executive board of the union. The executive board may delegate, from among its ranks, one individual to carry out this responsibility. PAYMENT OF MONIES. No monies are to be paid to anyone in any official capacity in the SIU unless an official union receipt is given for same. Under no circumstances should any member pay any money for any reason unless he is given such receipt. In the event anyone attempts to require any such payment be made without supplying a receipt, or if a member is required to make a payment and is given an official receipt, but feels that he or she should not have been required to make such payment, this should immediately be reported to union headquarters. CONSTITUTIONAL RIGHTS AND OBLIGATIONS. Copies of the SIU Constitution are available in all union halls. All members should obtain copies of this constitution so as to familiarize themselves with its contents. Any time a member feels any other member or officer is attempting to deprive him or her of any constitutional right or obligation by any methods, such as dealing with charges, trials, etc., as well as all other details, the member so affected should immediately notify headquarters. EQUAL RIGHTS. All members are guaranteed equal rights in employment and as members of the SIU. These rights are clearly set forth in the SIU Constitution and in the contracts which the union has negotiated with the employers. Conse­quently, no member may be discriminated against because of race, creed, color, sex, national or geographic origin. If any member feels that he or she is denied the equal rights to which he or she is entitled, the member should notify union headquarters. SEAFARERS POLITICAL ACTIVITY DONATION (SPAD). SPAD is a separate segregated fund. Its proceeds are used to further its objects and purposes including, but not limited to, furthering the political, social and economic interests of maritime workers, the preservation and furthering of the American merchant marine with improved employment opportunities for seamen and boatmen and the advancement of trade union concepts. In connection with such objects, SPAD supports and contributes to political candidates for elective office. All contributions are voluntary. No contribution may be solicited or received because of force, job discrimination, financial reprisal, or threat of such conduct, or as a condition of membership in the union or of employment. If a contribution is made by reason of the above improper conduct, the member should notify the Seafarers International Union or SPAD by certified mail within 30 days of the contribution for investigation and appropriate action and refund, if involuntary. A member should support SPAD to protect and further his or her economic, political and social interests, and American trade union concepts. NOTIFYING THE UNION — If at any time a member feels that any of the above rights have been violated, or that he or she has been denied the constitutional right of access to union records or information, the member should immediately notify SIU President Michael Sacco at headquarters by certified mail, return receipt requested. The address is: Michael Sacco, President Seafarers International Union 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746. Seafarers LOG 15 �Final Departures DEEP SEA CLIFTON DOONIS Brother Clifton Doonis, 39, passed away August 14. He was born in Maryland. Brother Doonis joined the union in 1999. He initially worked aboard the USNS Gilliland. The deck department member last sailed on the Lawrence Gianella. Brother Doonis was a resident of Clinton, Md. JAMES MCHUGH Pensioner James McHugh, 78, died August 12. Brother McHugh signed on with the SIU in 1967. His earliest trip was on the Steel Design. Brother McHugh was born in Pennsylvania. He was a member of the deck department. Brother McHugh most recently shipped aboard the Carolina. He retired in 2001 and called Philadelphia home. GUILLERMO THOMAS Pensioner Guillermo Thomas, 70, passed away August 29. Brother Thomas began sailing with the union in 1970. He originally worked with Crowley Towing & Transportation of Wilmington. Brother Thomas was a member of the steward department. Before retiring in 2006, he sailed on the Intrepid. Brother Thomas was born in Eagle Pass, Texas, and made his home in New Mexico. INLAND SIDNEY FAUCETT Pensioner Sidney Faucett, 87, died August 10. Brother Faucett became an SIU member in 1968. He first sailed with Interstate Oil Transportation Company. Brother Faucett last shipped aboard a Moran Towing of Philadelphia vessel. He went on pension in 1988 and resided in his native state, North Carolina. ROBERT HEARN Pensioner Robert Hearn, 69, passed away July 12. Brother Hearn began sailing with the union in 1967 while in Philadelphia. His earliest trip was with Graham Transportation Company. Brother Hearn was born in Pennsylvania. His final boat was operated by Interstate Oil Transportation Company. Brother Hearn started collecting his retirement compensation in 2009. He settled in Cambridge, Md. 16 Seafarers LOG JOHN LEE Brother John Lee, 61, died August 26. He donned the SIU colors in 1997. Brother Lee initially sailed with Moran Towing of Texas. He most recently worked aboard a Penn Maritime Inc. vessel. Brother Lee called Keystone, Fla., home. ROSALIS VITO Pensioner Rosalis Vito, 82, passed away August 15. Brother Vito signed on with the SIU in 1965 while in New Orleans. He worked with Dravo Basic Materials Company for the duration of his career. Brother Vito went on pension in 1995 and made his home in Houma, La. WILLIAM ZORN Pensioner William Zorn, 74, died August 20. Brother Zorn joined the union in 1968. He initially shipped aboard a National Marine Service vessel. Brother Zorn’s final ship was the Sabine. He retired in the 2001 and lived in Mountain Home, Texas. GREAT LAKES DONALD MULLINS Pensioner Donald Mullins, 85, passed away August 6. Brother Mullins was born in Wisconsin. He started his SIU career in 1959 in Fort Lauderdale, Fla. Brother Mullins mainly sailed with American Steamship Company. He became a pensioner in 1988. Brother Mullins, who sailed in the deck department, was a resident of Marinette, Wisc. Editor’s note: The following brothers, all former members of the National Maritime Union (NMU), have passed away. MOHAMED ALI Pensioner Mohamed Ali, 78, died June 17. Brother Ali was born in Yemen. He went on pension in 2002. Brother Ali made his home in San Leandro, Calif. TOMAS ALONZO Pensioner Tomas Alonzo, 84, passed away May 27. Brother Alonzo, a native of Honduras, started collecting his retirement compensation in 1993. He lived in Brooklyn, N.Y. ANTHONY ALVES Pensioner Anthony Alves, 79, died June 29. Born in Augusta, Maine, Brother Alves became a pensioner in 1989. He called Scarborough, Maine, home. WILLIAM AUDETTE Pensioner William Audette, 83, passed away July 1. Brother Audette was born in Fall River, Mass. He retired in 1989 and resided in Massachusetts. LUIS GARCIA Pensioner Luis Garcia, 87, passed away June 25. Brother Garcia, a Manati, P.R., native, became a pensioner in 1968. He settled in Sea Level, N.C. CHARLES AVITELLO Pensioner Charles Avitello, 95, died July 3. Brother Avitello was a Pennsylvania native. He began receiving his pension in 1965. Brother Avitello lived in New Jersey. JORGE GOMEZ Pensioner Jorge Gomez, 88, died June 29. The Hondurasborn mariner went on pension in 1973. Brother Gomez called Mt. Vernon, N.Y., home. MOHAMED BAKER Pensioner Mohamed Baker, 91, passed away August 18. Brother Baker, a native of Sudan, went on pension in 1968. He made his home in Florida. WILLIAM BENDA Pensioner William Benda, 85, died July 2. Born in New York, Brother Benda started receiving his retirement compensation in 1982. He lived in East Hampton, N.Y. TERRENCE CHASE Pensioner Terrence Chase, 102, passed away August 9. Brother Chase was born in Barbados. He retired in 1985 and settled in Hampton, Va. TZE CHOW Pensioner Tze Chow, 96, died July 19. Brother Chow was a native of China. He became a pensioner in 1981 and called New York home. MANUEL COLON Pensioner Manuel Colon, 71, passed away June 18. Brother Colon, a native of Caguas, P.R., began collecting his pension in 1996. He resided in New York. ALFRED CZAPLICKI Pensioner Alfred Czaplicki, 96, died August 7. Born in New Bedford, Mass., Brother Czaplicki went on pension in 1966. He lived in Woodbridge Township, N.J. EMILE DURANT Pensioner Emile Durant, 85, passed away June 17. Brother Durant was born in St. Croix. He retired in 1987 and was a resident of Christiansted, St. Croix. BERNARD ELFSTROM Pensioner Bernard Elfstrom, 78, died July 30. Brother Elfstrom was a Galveston, Texas, native. He started receiving his retirement pay in 1998. Brother Elfstrom made his home in San Antonio, Texas. LOGAN GUEHO Pensioner Logan Gueho, 88, passed away July 7. Brother Gueho was born in Louisiana. He began collecting compensation for his retirement in 1967. Brother Gueho made his home in Plaquemine, La. LEON HAYES Pensioner Leon Hayes, 78, died July 30. Born in Waynesburg, Miss., Brother Hayes started receiving his pension in 2002. He lived in Long Beach, Calif. ABRAHAM HENNING Pensioner Abraham Henning, 88, passed away June 27. Brother Henning was a native of the Cayman Islands. He retired in 1989 and resided in Tampa, Fla. JOSE HERNANDEZ Pensioner Jose Hernandez, 85, died August 5. Brother Hernandez was born in Chicago. He became a pensioner in 1988. Brother Hernandez called Sanford, Fla., home. RICHARD KIRKLAND Pensioner Richard Kirkland, 78, passed away August 29. Brother Kirkland, a native of Kershaw, S.C., went on pension in 1999. He settled in Beaumont, Texas. ARTHUR LARKO Pensioner Arthur Larko, 82, died August 13. Brother Larko was a native of Chicago. He began receiving his retirement pay in 1996. Brother Larko was a resident of Madison, Fla. THOMAS LOBUS Pensioner Thomas Lobus, 86, passed away July 8. Brother Lobus was born in Baltimore. He retired in 1974 and made his home in Seattle. PERCY LONG Pensioner Percy Long, 90, died July 9. Brother Long retired in 1992. He was a resident of Oakland, Calif. leans. He became a pensioner in 1992 and continued to call Louisiana home. FRANK ODOM Pensioner Frank Odom, 88, died July 19. Brother Odom was a native of North Carolina. He started collecting his pension in 1986. Brother Odom resided in Chesapeake, Va. WILLIAM PAGAN Pensioner William Pagan, 84, passed away July 21. He was born in Ponce, P.R. Brother Pagan began receiving compensation for his retirement in 1988. He lived in Orlando, Fla. JULIAN QUINTERO Pensioner Julian Quintero, 88, died July 11. Brother Quintero, a native of Panama, retired in 1985. He settled in Houston. HENRY VANN Pensioner Henry Vann, 93, passed away August 1. Brother Vann was born in Virginia. He went on pension in 1987 and made his home in Hampton, Va. THEODORE WALTER Pensioner Theodore Walter, 88, died July 25. Brother Walter was a native of Honduras. He became a pensioner in 1969. Brother Walter called Miami, Fla., home. THOMAS WILSON Pensioner Thomas Wilson, 88, passed away June 8. Born in Alabama, Brother Wilson started receiving his retirement pay in 1974. He was a resident of Portsmouth, Va. Name Age Alexander, Albert 83 Bush, Benjamin 88 Carbone, Dominico 86 Dualeh, Jama 88 Gojilde, Angel 76 Grimshawe, David 87 Heleba, John 88 Howell, Leonard 76 Keith, James 85 Kutz, Bernard 98 Kwiatkowski, Edmund 87 Lobo-Majano, Sal 80 Martin, Donald 88 Matthews, Thomas 86 Mieles, Manuel 82 Ocampo, Juan 85 Ortiz, Sergio 92 Pantoja, Juan 85 Paul, John 87 Preston, Robert 85 Ramos, Luis 83 Rivera, Jose 93 Spinelli, Domenic 90 Staton, Joel 85 Vazquez, Luis 84 DOD July 21 July 18 August 9 April 23 June 27 August 17 July 21 June 4 July 5 June 29 August 4 July 1 July 6 May 9 June 14 August 3 August 6 July 15 July 31 June 28 June 18 July 30 June 11 July 13 August 1 ALEX MCCALL Pensioner Alex McCall, 86, passed away August 8. Brother McCall was born in New Or- March 2013 �Paul Hall Center Upgrading Course Information The following is a schedule of courses at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md., for the next few months. All programs are geared toward improving the job skills of Seafarers and promoting the American maritime industry. Please note that this schedule may change to reflect the needs of the membership, the maritime industry and—in times of conflict—the national security. Students attending any of these classes should check in the Saturday before their course’s start date. The courses listed here will begin promptly on the morning of the start dates. For classes ending on a Friday, departure reservations should be made for Saturday. Seafarers who have any questions regarding the upgrading courses offered at the Paul Hall Center may call the admissions office at (301) 994-0010. Title of Start Date of Course Date Completion Deck Department Lifeboatman/Water Survival March 30 April 12 April 27 May 10 May 25 June 7 June 22 July 5 STOS April 27 May 10 Able Seaman March 16 April 12 May 11 June 7 Radar Renewal (One day) May 28 May 28 Radar Observer May 4 May 17 ARPA May 18 May 24 Bosun Recertification July 13 August 5 Title of Start Date of Course Date Completion Basic Firefighting/STCW April 13 April 19 May 11 May 17 June 15 June 21 Advanced Firefighting March 30 April 5 Government Vessels March 11 March 15 April 15 April 19 May 6 May 10 June 3 June 7 Medical Care Provider April 6 April 12 Tank Pic Barge May 4 May 10 Steward Department Upgrading Courses Chief Steward April 13 May 24 July 6 August 16 Steward Recertification March 16 April 8 Serve Safe March 9 March 15 June 8 June 14 Galley Operations These modules start every Monday. Chief Cook These modules start every other week. The next class will begin March 15. Advanced Galley Operations These modules start every Monday. Engine Department Basic Auxiliary Plant Operations (BAPO) March 23 April 19 May 18 June 14 FOWT April 20 May 17 June 15 July 12 Junior Engineer May 4 June 28 Marine Refer Tech May 4 June 14 Welding March 9 March 29 April 6 April 26 May 4 May 24 June 1 June 21 Safety Upgrading Courses Basic Firefighting/STCW March 23 March 29 UPGRADING APPLICATION Name_________________________________________________________________________ Address_______________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________ Telephone (Home)_________________________ (Cell)_________________________ Date of Birth___________________________________________________________________ Deep Sea Member o Lakes Member o Inland Waters Member o NOTICE National Maritime Center Web Site Provides Valuable Mariner Resources The National Maritime Center (NMC), the licensing authority for the U.S. Coast Guard, offers a comprehensive web site covering mariner credentialing, medical guidelines and much more. The site features a wide range of applications and forms, deck- and engine-department exam information, lists of Coast Guard-approved courses and more. Seafarers are encour- aged to check out the site at:http://www. uscg.mil/nmc/ Mariners may call the NMC at 1-888-IASKNMC (1-888-427-5662). Operational hours are 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. EST, Monday through Friday. (The NMC is closed for all federal holidays.) Various email forms also are available through the NMC web site. Important Notice Students who have registered for classes at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, but later discover - for whatever reason - that they can’t attend, should inform the admissions department immediately so arrangements can be made to have other students take their places. COURSE ____________________________ START DATE _______________ DATE OF COMPLETION _______________________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________________ If the following information is not filled out completely, your application will not be processed. Social Security #_______________________ Book #__________________________________ Seniority_____________________________ Department_____________________________ Home Port____________________________________________________________________ E-mail_______________________________________________________________________ Endorsement(s) or License(s) now held_____________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________ Are you a graduate of the SHLSS/PHC trainee program? o Yes o No If yes, class #___________________________________________________________________ Have you attended any SHLSS/PHC upgrading courses? o Yes o No If yes, course(s) taken____________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________ NOTE: Transportation will be paid in accordance with the scheduling letter only if you present original receipts and successfully complete the course. If you have any questions, contact your port agent before departing for Piney Point. Not all classes are reimbursable.Return completed application to: Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education Admissions Office, P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674-0075; or fax to (301) 994-2189. With this application, COPIES of the following must be sent: One hundred and twenty-five (125) days seatime for the previous year, one day in the last six months prior to the date your class starts, USMMD (z-card) front and back or relevant pages of merchant mariner credential, front page of your union book indicating your department and seniority, qualifying seatime for the course if it is Coast Guard tested, 1995 STCW Certificate, valid SHBP Clinic Card and TWIC. The Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education is a private, non-profit, equal opportunity institution and admits students, who are otherwise qualified, of any race, nationality or sex. The school complies with applicable laws with regard to admission, access or treatment of students in its programs or activities. 3/13 March 2013 LAST VESSEL: ___________________________________ Rating: ____________________ Date On: _______________________________ Date Off:____________________________ SIGNATURE ____________________________________ DATE______________________ Seafarers LOG 17 �Paul Hall Center Classes Unlicensed Apprentice Water Survival Class 768 – Twenty-two individuals, Phase I unlicensed apprentices as well as upgraders, completed their requirements in this 60-hour course Jan. 18. Those graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Lindsey Austin, Greg Beebe, Edwin BUnda, Matthew Conyac, Guy Delyea, Alexander Eaton, Erick Ellis, Terry Franklin, Stephen Glynn, Nigel Green, Domaneeq Guerrero, Katrina Jones, Travis Lee, Joseph Marino, Josean Martinez-Serrano, Michael Mclendon, Jesus Ortiz Rivera, Chester Piaskowski, Rachel Rodriguez, Lawton Sholes, John Teodosio and Christopher Torres. GMDSS – The following upgraders (above, in alphabetical order) graduated from this this 70hour course Feb 1. : Omar Aswad, Alexander Banky IV, Daniel Bradberry Jr., Matthew Jenness, Jermaine McGhee, Michael Moore, Rudy Puerto, Don Simmons-Gregory and Michael Smith. Brad Wheeler, their instructor, is at the far right. Government Vessels – Ten Seafarers completed their requirements in this three-week course Jan. 18. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Antoinette Amato, Mott Arnold, Deborah Artis, Omar Aswad, Nicholas Kempker, Hezikiah Lawe, Roger Nesbeth, Natalie Nunes, Fernando Ortega and Amr Sonbol. Their instructor, Mark Cates, is standing at the far right. Welding – Five upgraders finished this course Feb. 1. Graduating from the four-week class (above, in alphabetical order) were: Nabil Ahmed, Jimmy Copeland, Daniel Cunningham, Lydia Dye and Eddie Solichin. Class Instructor Buzzy Andrews is standing in the back row at the left. Medical Care Provider – Nine upgraders completed the enhancement of their skills in this course Jan. 18. Those graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Alexander Banky IV, Daniel Bradberry Jr,. Cleofe Castro, Stravon Jordan, Jermaine McGhee, Tim Price, Rudy Puerto, Don Simmons-Gregory and Scott Spilman. Class Instructors Wayne Johnson Jr., and Wayne Johnson Sr. are at the far left and far right, respectively. Combined Basic and Advanced Fire Fighting – Ten upgraders finished this 41-hour course Jan. 11. Those graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Omar Aswad, Alexander Banky IV, Daniel Bradberry, Satchel Caffy, Criseldo Espinosa, Stravon Jordan, Tim Price, Rudy Puerto, Don Simmons-Gregory and Scott Spilman. Mike Roberts, their instructor, is in the front row at the far right. Advanced Fire Fighting (Alaskan Tanker Company) –Seventeen individuals from union-contracted Alaskan Tanker COmpany completed this 35-hour course Feb. 1. Those graduating (photo at right, in alphabetical order) were: Johnson Ashun, Donny Castillo, Philip Corl, Rommel Crespo, Rollin Crump, Manuel Enrico, Manuel Espinoza, Odilio Evora, Bonifacio Fortes, Christopher Gonseth, Gregory Hamilton, Detricke Kelly, Jose Loureiro, Arnel Resurreccion, Christopher Rosado, Ruben Toledo Jr., and Gary Torres. Wayne Johnson and Joe Zienda, their instructors, are at the far left and second from left respectively. (Note: not all are pictured.) 18 Seafarers LOG March 2013 �Paul Hall Center Classes Tankship Familiarization DL – The following Phase III unlicensed apprentices (photo at left, in alphabetical order) completed this course Jan. 18: Cris Arsenio, Jeffrey Beasley, Julian Beasley, Jack Boscia, Daniel Diagle, Andrew Devine, George Erwin Jr., Sean Geddie, David Gentsch, James Hargrove, Arvin Heras, Fadhel Hussein, Jason Knapp, Ali Malahi, Prasert Mastrotataro, Jamie Medoza Diaz, Ahmed Mohamed Eissa, Ingrid Ortiz Rosario, Michael Pirch, Roque Santa Cruz, Alisia Scheurer, Brett Scott, Yoland St. Clair, Brett Tiedeman and Samuel Tiles. Important Notice to Students Students who have registered for classes at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, but later discover - for whatever reason that they can’t attend, should inform the admissions department immediately so arrangements can be made to have other students take their places. Bridge Team Training – The following individuals (above, in alphabetical order) graduSpecially Trained Ordinary Seaman – Three upgraders finished their requirements in ated from this this course Jan. 18: Darryle Coale, Jay Darran, Russell Furtney, Mack this 70-hour course Feb. 1. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Richard Cris- Hester, Igor Loch Jr., Robert Martus, James Russell, Jerome Smith and Trevor Webster. tiani, Richard Flores and Carlo Gentile. Class Instructor Stan Beck is at the left. Brad Wheeler, their instructor, is at the far left. Certified Chief Cook – Four Seafarers recently completed the enhancement of their skills in this 12-week course. Graduating (above, from left to right) were: Tanesha Brown, Demarius Jones, Paula Minton and Shirley Jenkins. Steward Department Courses – Five upgraders recently improved their skills by completing steward department courses. Those graduating, and their respective courses (above, in no particular order) were: David Rodak, certified chief cook; William Grow, galley operations; Mahr Mused, galley operations; Abdul Munasar, galley operations; and Walter Wise, advanced galley operations. Certified Chief Cook – Three Seafarers recently graduated from this course. Completing their requirements (above, from left to right) were: David Simon, Marilou Toledo and John Burris. BST (Hawaii) – The following individuals (above, in alphabetical order) graduated from this course Jan. 26 at the Seafarers Training Facility in Barbers Point Hawaii: Gregory Carpenter, Jessica Daniels, Tanysha Edwards, Markus Freeman, Eva Gayares, Neil Kumar, Danielle Matousek, De Marco Mims, Naruli Permatasari, Bernardina Pimentel, Jessica Preble, Alexander Rodriquez Cabanas, Jessica Seberg, Athena Spier, Jonathan Stokes, Vanessa Vassell and Tanisha Walker. March 2013 Seafarers LOG 19 �Volume 75, Number 3 March 2013 Paul Hall Center Course Dates Page 17 Members enjoy meal time aboard the Maersk Line, Limited vessel. Snapshots from Maersk California Recertified Steward Juan Jose Vallejo emailed these photos from the Maersk California, taken while the vessel sailed from Dubai to Kuwait. Bosun Gary Cardillo (right) and Recertified Steward Juan Vallejo check a safety list. SA Justino Martinez Chief Cook Rene Gil AB Larry Tharp, GUDE Maurice Ayuso Chief Electrician James Sloan Recertified Steward Juan Vallejo � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Seafarers Log Issues 2010-2019 Description An account of the resource Volumes LXXII-LXXXI of the Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Seafarers Log Digital Copies Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 2010-2019 Document A resource containing textual data. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre text. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource March 2013 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES SIU ADDS TANKER FLORIDA TO FLEET NEW CLINIC SYSTEM STARTS MARCH 1 SIU OFFICIAL DELIVERS MARITIME’S MESSAGE AT PRESTIGIOUS HARVARD LAW LABOR FORUM CROWLEY CHRISTENS TANKER FLORIDA IN PHILADELPHIA ITF SEES PROGRESS FOR MLC DREDGING REMAINS PRIORITY FOR LCA IN 2013 ‘BUTS AND BOLTS OF MLC 2006 COAST GUARD SETS RANDOM DRUG TESTING RATE BLS ISSUES YEARLY REPORT ON UNION MEMBERSHIP ACTING LABOR SECRETARY REINFORCES IMPORTANCE OF REPRESENTATION U.S. REPS FORM CONGRESSIONAL MARTIME CAUCUS MSC STREAMLINES HEALTH CARE FOR CIVMARS SERVING OVERSEAKS RETIRED PORT AGENT JACK ALLEN DIES AT 80 DOYLE JOINS FMC SHBP OFFERS COBRA CONTINUATION COVERAGE T O UNION MEMBERS. FIRST JHSV ANCHORS IN PETERSBURG GLOBAL SENTINEL CREW TURNS FLAKY FLUID INTO HEARTFELT PHILANTHROTRIP OPPORTUNITY Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Seafarers Log Digital Copies Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 03/01/2013 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Newsprint Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context Vol. 75, No. 3 2013 Periodicals Seafarers Log http://www.seafarerslog.org/archives/files/original/dde6b5d6d73941384a95ac657baafdff.pdf f23e97565d5e5a5badde08e9848ec6a8 PDF Text Text Volume 75, Number 4 April 2013 National Security Depends on Strong U.S.-Flag Fleet Guest speakers including AFL-CIO President Richard Trumka (at podium in photo above) recently addressed the executive board of the Maritime Trades Department near Orlando, Fla. Board members and other guests heard from representatives of the U.S. Military Sealift Command, U.S. Coast Guard, Obama administration, private maritime companies, trade unions and others. While many topics were covered, two common themes were that America’s national and economic security depend on a strong U.S. Merchant Marine, and a middle-class resurgence won’t be possible without a revitalized labor movement. Coverage starts on Page 3 and continues on Pages 9-13. Pictured from left in the photo with President Trumka are MTD VP Scott Winter, MTD President Michael Sacco (who also serves as SIU president) and MTD Executive Secretary-Treasurer Daniel Duncan. Union Welcomes New Jobs as Navy Christens USNS Montford Point More than 1,000 guests gathered March 2 at the General Dynamics NASSCO shipyard in San Diego for the christening of the USNS Montford Point (vessel shown in photo at right), the Navy’s first mobile landing platform ship. Seafarers-contracted Ocean Ships, Inc. will operate the vessel. SIU VP Gulf Coast Dean Corgey (third from left in group photo below) joined Ocean Ships officials (from left) President Jim McGregor, CEO Joe Vaughan and VP Bob Sheen at the ceremony. Page 3. Specially Engraved Bricks Will Highlight Waterfront Park in Piney Point, Md. Donations Will Help Beautify School, Honor Individuals and Organizations The union and its affiliated school in southern Maryland have announced the availability of bricks that will be donated for a new waterfront park at the school’s campus in Piney Point, Md. Each donor chooses an inscription (see sample in photo above) and also gets a chance to enter a name-the-park contest. Check out the back page for details. President’s Column Page 2 15044_APRIL2013LOG.indd 1 New SHBP Clinic System Update Page 4 Photos from ‘Deep Freeze’ Pages 6-7 3/26/2013 8:04:03 PM �President’s Report Jones Act Report Validates Value Our industry got a big, well-earned boost with the recent release of a Government Accountability Office study on the Jones Act and how that law affects Puerto Rico. To the surprise of no one who actually believes in American-flag shipping, the study shot down claims by Jones Act critics who’ve alleged the law harms consumers and costs too much. On the contrary, the GAO – an independent, non-partisan federal agency – found that the U.S. domestic container shipping fleet has provided dependable service to Puerto Rico while offering substantial rate reductions. While the report confirmed that it’s practically impossible to measure certain aspects of the overall cost of Jones Act shipping, it clearly reflects big rate drops in recent years. And it also Michael Sacco warns of potentially grave consequences to the U.S. Merchant Marine and American shipbuilding and national security if the law were weakened or eliminated. If you’re new to our industry or otherwise unfamiliar with the Jones Act, it’s one of the foundations of the American maritime industry. This law mandates that cargo moving from one domestic port to another be carried on vessels that are crewed, owned, built and flagged American. It has served the United States quite well since 1920, and has enjoyed consistent bipartisan support in Congress as well as the backing of every president and the U.S. military. Dozens of other nations have similar laws – because they promote national and economic security. And some version of the Jones Act has been in effect since our nation’s founding. Make no mistake: The individuals and organizations who attack the Jones Act aren’t interested in so-called free trade or helping consumers save a buck. They’re interested in sinking the U.S. Merchant Marine, closing U.S. shipyards, and exporting our jobs overseas. In this time of high unemployment with Americans calling upon their government officials to change laws that have permitted jobs to go overseas, altering the Jones Act to allow foreign companies to enter the Puerto Rican-U.S. market would adversely affect both the Puerto Rican and the American economies. The Jones Act helps sustain nearly 500,000 American jobs and generates more than $100 billion in annual economic output along with nearly $11 billion in annual tax revenue. It helps maintain a pool of U.S. citizen seafarers who are available to sail on American military support ships anywhere around the world. And, as the GAO found, it doesn’t harm consumers. While that should add up to “case closed,” we know the attacks will keep coming. Our industry will be ready, and we’ll set the record straight as many times as needed. Along those lines, we’re fighting to maintain the Food for Peace program, as reported elsewhere on this page. This is another pillar of the U.S. Merchant Marine, also under attack by people who do not care about maintaining American maritime jobs – or U.S. farm jobs, for that matter. When I say we’ve been working on it practically 24/7, it’s not much of an exaggeration. This is a difficult fight, but we have strong support on both sides of the aisle and from the military. As with the Jones Act, Food for Peace helps sustain the American crews and American-flag ships that our country needs in times of conflict. It also helps our own economy and those of other nations while promoting goodwill across the globe. At times it seems like these battles never end. For our members who have a few years behind them, these fights about the Jones Act and Food for Peace may seem like old news. Our attackers are like dogs trying to catch a car. They just won’t give up. But we are up to the challenge, and we will commit every possible resource to protecting and promoting the U.S. Merchant Marine. Volume 75, Number 4 April 2013 The SIU online: www.seafarers.org The Seafarers LOG (ISSN 1086-4636) is published monthly by the Seafarers International Union; Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters, AFL-CIO; 5201 Auth Way; Camp Springs, MD 20746. Telephone (301) 899-0675. Periodicals postage paid at Southern Maryland 20790-9998. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to the Seafarers LOG, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. Communications Director, Jordan Biscardo; Managing Editor/Production, Jim Guthrie; Assistant Editor, Brian Ahern; Photographer, Harry Gieske; Administrative Support, Misty Dobry. Copyright © 2013 Seafarers International Union, AGLIWD. All Rights Reserved. The Seafarers International Union engaged an environmentally friendly printer for the production of this newspaper. 2 Seafarers LOG 15044_APRIL2013LOG.indd 2 U.S. Senators Urge President Obama To Maintain Food for Peace Program A bipartisan collation of 21 senators recently signed a letter to President Obama to “maintain funding for the U.S. Department of Agriculture Food for Peace Program, also known as Public Law 480, in your Fiscal Year 2014 budget request to Congress.” The senators, who are from all over the country, were responding to published reports that the Office of Management and Budget would be eliminating the multi-billion dollar program in favor of providing straight cash donations to nongovernmental organizations or the affected countries directly. In addition, Congress passed and the president signed a surface transportation bill last summer that reduced the percentage of food aid cargo that would be carried by U.S.-flag, U.S.-crewed vessels. Also speaking out recently on behalf of the program were the Navy League of the United States and a key industry coalition, USA Maritime. The Food for Peace Program has been a staple of American diplomacy since its inception in 1954, bringing American-grown grain and food products aboard U.S.-flag vessels to the world’s hungry and afflicted. Besides helping people in need globally, it has provided steady employment for American farmers and merchant mariners, so they and their ships would be available to transport military cargo in times of crisis. “Food for Peace provides economic benefits at home, stimulating our farm and transportation industries,” stated the senators’ letter of Feb. 20. “This program is important to American farmers and shippers and developing nations around the world.” Those signing the letter include Mark Pryor (DArk.), Roy Blunt (R-Missouri), Debbie Stabenow (D-Mich.), Thad Cochran (R-Miss.), Sherrod Brown (D-Ohio), Mary Landrieu (D-La.), Tom Harkin (DIowa), David Vitter (R-La.), Barbara Mikulski (DMd)., John Boozman (R-Ark.), Al Franken (D-Minn.), Pat Roberts (R-Kan.), Tim Johnson (D-S.D.), Roger Wicker (R-Miss.), Jerry Moran (R-Kan.), John Hoeven (R-N.D.), Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii), Charles Schumer (D-N.Y.), Ron Wyden (D-Ore.), Mark Johanns (RNeb.) and Frank Lautenberg (D-N.J.). Navy League President Dale Lumme, writing to the head of the Office of Management and Budget on behalf of the organization’s 48,000 members and 250 worldwide councils, stated, “We urge you to maintain the structure of and funding levels for the Food for Peace and Food for Progress programs…. These food aid cargo programs are necessary to maintain the commercial U.S. Merchant Marine and play an important role in American diplomacy.” He added, “Cancelling this vital program will significantly undermine the U.S.-flag Merchant Marine and have devastating impacts to our national security. The United States Merchant Marine has been a necessary part of our national defense since the founding of our nation. The U.S. government relies on U.S.-flag, U.S.crewed ships in a public-private partnership with the Department of Defense to ensure the safe transportation of critical cargo anywhere in the world at any time – especially during times of war or national emergency.” Lumme also pointed out that the Food for Peace program helps maintain tens of thousands of American jobs in various sectors while generating almost $2 billion in economic output. Meanwhile, USA Maritime Chairman James Henry in late February issued a statement that read in part, “USA Maritime is deeply disappointed to learn that the Obama Administration is considering the elimination of our flagship international food donation programs, Food for Peace (PL 480) and Food for Progress. Since 1954, Food for Peace alone has benefited more than three billion people in 150 countries and is an important symbol of America’s goodwill. Any move to eliminate these important U.S. commodity donation programs would be shortsighted, ineffective, and could ultimately jeopardize national security and merchant mariner jobs. “Unlike other foreign aid programs, these timetested programs do more than just send aid overseas,” he continued. “Food for Peace is a point of pride for the 44,000 American farmers, shippers, processors, port workers, and merchant mariners whose jobs depend upon the program. Food for Peace is not just a handout. It’s the sharing of American bounty and American know-how to help rescue those less fortunate from starvation and chronic food insecurity. By creating a uniquely sustainable public-private partnership among American faith-based organizations and charities, U.S. industry, and the U.S. government, Food for Peace leverages private and public resources to make a meaningful difference for millions of people in a way that government alone or cash handouts simply cannot.” Another consideration, Henry pointed out, is that the “same U.S. citizen mariners and U.S.-flag ships that deliver food aid under the Food for Peace program also provide vital transport capabilities for our troops. In fact, they delivered more than 90 percent of defense cargo to military posts in Iraq and Afghanistan. According to the Department of Defense, without the base of food aid cargoes to help sustain the commercial U.S.flag fleet, we will not be able to sustain the national defense sealift capability our military needs without significant additional federal expenditures.” He concluded, “We all agree on the importance of reducing spending during these trying economic times, but the Food for Peace program has already been cut 35 percent since 2008 despite increased need among the most vulnerable populations in the world. Now is not the time to eliminate the most dependable tool we have to fight global hunger.” Jones Act Has No Role in Fuel Prices One of the American maritime industry’s most respected voices recently set the record straight on baseless accusations that the Jones Act somehow plays a role in bumping up the cost of gasoline in the U.S. Retired U.S. Navy Vice Adm. Albert Herberger, who also served as U.S. maritime administrator and as the deputy commander of the U.S. Transportation Command, wrote an op-ed clearly explaining that the nation’s freight cabotage law doesn’t cause “pain at the pump.” In part, Herberger, who remains an industry spokesman, wrote, “The Jones Act is a long-standing U.S. maritime law that mandates the use of vessels that are American-crewed, -built and -owned to move cargo between two U.S. ports. The law is critical for American economic, national and homeland security, which is why it has enjoyed the support of the U.S. Navy, many members of Congress of both parties, and every president in modern history. It doesn’t make sense to blame the American shipping industry in general, and the Jones Act in particular, for the spike in gasoline prices. The cost of shipping does not affect the price at the pump — the global market does. “The overwhelming factor in the price of gasoline at the pump is the price of its main raw material — crude oil, the price of which is set in the global marketplace,” he continued. “The cost of crude accounts Vice Adm. Albert Herberger U.S. Navy, Retired for about two-thirds of the price of gasoline. Data from the American Petroleum Institute show the price of crude oil has spiked over the past several months, which has led to the spike in gasoline prices.” The admiral added that basic supply and demand also affects the price at the pump, and while the reason for the spike in crude oil prices is complicated, “most experts believe an improving economy and demand in China has also driven the crude spike. According to the Energy In- formation Administration, other factors also affect the price at the pump, including the value of the dollar, state and local taxes, geopolitical issues, decisions by OPEC, inflation and weather. The cost of transportation within the United States, however, is so insignificant as to have no effect on the price to consumers at the pump.” Also worth noting, Herberger wrote, is that the Jones Act “has proved efficient and has made significant contributions to the U.S. economy. Today, the maritime industry is the most economical and environmentally friendly form of domestic transportation, moving more than 1 billion tons of cargo annually at a fraction of the cost of other modes. It is no wonder that the domestic fleet governed by the Jones Act moves a quarter of the nation’s freight for just 2 percent of the national freight bill. And despite false claims by critics, there is ample capacity in the U.S.-flag fleet to address changes in petroleum product markets as a result of Northeast refinery closures. A large American tank vessel fleet of modern and highly sophisticated vessels exists in this country to move petroleum products from the Gulf of Mexico to the Northeast. “It is our hope that the gasoline prices come down as soon as possible. The U.S.-flag fleet stands ready to continue transporting fuel efficiently and effectively to meet America’s energy needs.” April 2013 3/26/2013 7:26:22 PM �MTD Speakers Draw Blueprint for Revitalization Industry, Government, Military and Labor Leaders Push for Strong U.S. Fleet Despite facing significant challenges, both the maritime industry and the union movement are quite capable of revitalization, according to representatives of the administration, the U.S. military, business, government and organized labor. Guest speakers from each of those sectors addressed the Maritime Trades Department (MTD), AFL-CIO executive board Feb. 21-22 in Lake Buena Vista, Fla. They were candid in assessing obstacles faced by labor and industry, but also were adamant that solidarity and hard work will lead to success. SIU President Michael Sacco, who also serves as MTD president, chaired the meeting. The MTD is a constitutional department of the AFL-CIO consisting of 23 affili- ated unions representing 5 million members. The MTD also includes 21 port maritime councils. In opening the session, Sacco recalled that union members played an indispensable role in helping re-elect a proworker administration last November. “We showed once again that grassroots political action is the greatest weapon we’ve got,” he told the board and 200 or so guests. “That’s been true for as long as the labor movement has been in existence, and there is no doubt that unions made the difference on November 6. We helped win the White House; we helped build on a pro-worker majority in the Senate; and we helped secure many other victories, including the defeat of California’s anti-worker Proposition 32.” He also touched on this year’s Bureau of Labor Statistics report that showed a drop in overall union membership. “Those numbers don’t tell the whole story,” Sacco stated. “Our numbers are down because of state-level attacks on workers’ rights in the public sector and also because the economy is still bad, so people are out of work. But the report also showed that membership grew in California and some other states, and it also showed once again that union members earn more money and have better benefits, on average, compared to non-union workers…. “We’re in a battle in the labor movement, but we’ve never been afraid of a fight,” he continued. “And we’re going to win the fight against so-called right-to-work (for less) laws. We’re going to mobilize like we did last year as we restore and protect public-sector rights. We’re going to bring back fairness in union organizing campaigns, so the deck isn’t stacked against people who want to exercise their legal right to form or join a union. We know it’s not easy and we know it’s a long road. But we’re still a force, as we proved on Election Day, and I’m optimistic about our future.” In order of appearance, the following guest speakers addressed the board on Feb. 21: Hawaii Governor Neil Abercrombie (D); Steve Bertelli, secretary-treasurer of the Bakery, Confectionery, Tobacco Workers and Grain Millers; Donald Dame, vice president of human resources, General Dynamics NASSCO; Rear Adm. Joseph Servidio, U.S. Coast Guard assistant commandant for prevention policy; Rear Adm. Mark Buzby, commander, U.S. Military Sealift Command; and Steve Cotton, acting general secretary of the International Transport Workers’ Federation. The following day, the board heard from (also in order) Matthew Cox, president and CEO of Seafarers-contracted Matson Navigation; AFL-CIO President Richard Trumka; United Mine Workers Secretary-Treasurer Daniel Kane; Fred Myers, executive director and CEO of the Union Sportsmen’s Alliance; Michael Stotz, president and managing director of the AFL-CIO Investment Trust Corporation; and Acting Secretary of Labor Seth Harris. The board also approved policy statements highlighting its beliefs, goals and strategies. Related content is available on the MTD website, maritimetrades.org See pages 9-13 for more MTD coverage MTD President Michael Sacco (above) tells the board he is optimistic about labor’s future. In the photo at right, board members and guests welcome a speaker (AFL-CIO President Richard Trumka). Navy Christens USNS Montford Point At General Dynamics NASSCO Shipyard First Mobile Landing Platform Means New Jobs for Seafarers The USNS Montford Point is moored pier-side in San Diego during the christening ceremony. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Dominique Pineiro) Gen. James Amos Commandant, USMC April 2013 15044_APRIL2013LOG.indd 3 Rear Adm. Mark Buzby Commander, MSC The Seafarers-contracted USNS Montford Point, the Navy’s first mobile landing platform (MLP) ship, was christened in San Diego March 2. Scheduled for delivery in mid-May, the Montford Point was built by union members at General Dynamics NASSCO, and will be operated by Ocean Ships, Inc. It’s the first in a three-ship order and is scheduled for mobilization as part of the Military Sealift Command’s (MSC) prepositioning fleet. The Montford Point, which is 784 feet long, is named in honor of the 20,000 African American Marine Corps recruits who trained at Camp Montford Point, N.C., from 1942 to 1949. Gen. James Amos, commandant of the Marine Corps, gave the keynote address at the christening. MSC Commander Rear Adm. Mark Buzby also was a featured speaker as more than 1,000 attendees – including more than 30 original Montford Point Marines – gathered at the shipyard. SIU Vice President Gulf Coast Dean Corgey represented the union; others attending included U.S. Reps. Susan Davis, Juan Vargas and Scott Peters (each a California Democrat). Jackie Bolden, the wife of NASA Ad- ministrator Charles Bolden (a retired Marine major general), christened the vessel. “Today we recognize the legacy of the Montford Point Marines with another pioneering effort,” said Amos. “[This ship] represents a leap ahead in our nation’s ability to project power across the world’s oceans. As an inter-operable pier in the sea, the [mobile landing platform] will significantly reduce our requirement for foreign ports in which to offload our equipment.” “This ship, with its unique capabilities, will become the centerpiece of seabasing, allowing the U.S. Navy to raise forward operations to a new level,” said Buzby. “Wherever the call, whatever the need, USNS Montford Point will be part of the Navy’s global force for good.” He added that the crew’s “determination will stand this ship and its mission in good stead as they sail anywhere on the globe that the mission sends them.” The other MLP vessels are the USNS John Glenn and the USNS Lewis B. Puller. They’re scheduled for delivery in early 2014 and early 2015, respectively. Including options, the Ocean Ships operating contract is for five years. Seafarers LOG 3 3/26/2013 7:26:26 PM �Union officials and port agents listen to presentations on the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan’s new health clinic system. CHSi, GCR Brief Officials on New Clinic System Top-ranking union officials and agents from the union’s 20 constitutionally established ports received a comprehensive briefing on the operational particulars of the new Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan (SHBP) Health Clinic System Feb. 19 in Orlando, Fla. Conducting the seminar was Kay Whitson, program manager of Cape Canaveral, Fla.-based Comprehensive Health Services (CHSi), the firm which the both the SIU and SHBP earlier this year contracted to provide active members with a more extensive network for clinic services. As was reported in the February Seafarers LOG, and earlier at the union membership meetings, CHSi’s larger network—which includes more than 2,000 participating facilities in the contiguous United States—will offer members access (almost without exception) to clinics closer to their homes for annual exams, functional capacity evaluations and interval exams. Whitson provided her audience with step-by-step explanations as to how the new clinic system would operate and what members could expect once they started to use it. Joining Whitson in her presentation was Dean Charbonnet, director Technology Services, GCR, Inc. GCR provides both the union and Seafarers Plans with consulting services and technology solutions. Charbonnet briefed those in attendance on how members eventually would be able to access and use the new health clinic system via the member portal of the SIU website (www.seafarers.org). Whitson told those present that utilizing the new clinic system will allow mariners to schedule the exams they need by following an eight step process. Medical exams are of two types (automated and approval required by the SHBP Medical Department) and are required at various frequencies. The medical exams are as follows: Automated Exams n Annual Physical Examination – required no more than once annually, no sooner than 60 days prior to the expiration date of the previous annual exam n New Member Physical Exam – this is a one-time requirement and is necessary only upon entry into the system n U.S. Coast Guard Exam – required once every two years unless the mariner is upgrading n Interval Exam – needed once every six months for deep sea members n DOT/U.S. Coast Guard Drug Test – needed once every six months (unless otherwise authorized by the SHBP Medical Department) n Benzene Clearance – mandatory no more than once annually, no sooner than 60 days prior to the expiration date of previous annual exam n Steward Department Certification – compulsory no more than once annually, no sooner than 60 days prior to the expiration date of the mariner’s previous annual exam n Unlicensed Apprentice Physical Exam – Will become automated after initial HLSS notification of acceptance. Exam is required one time only upon entry into the system. n Functional Capacity Evaluation – required no more than once annually, no sooner than 60 days prior to expiration date of previous annual exam Approval Required Exams n Return to Duty Exam – (repatriation, interval illness or injury, etc.) Required upon demand by SHBP Medical Department n MSC Physical Exam – required by job order and approved as necessary by the SHBP Medical Department n MSC Shots only– required by job order and approved as necessary by the SHBP Medical Department n Commercial Non-MSC Shots only– required by job order and approved as necessary by the SHBP Medical Department n ARC Exam – approval required by ARC and SHBP Medical Department n TB Screening only – needed upon demand by SHBP Medical Department Following are the steps that should be taken to schedule exams: Step 1 – Ports (and eventually all mariners) order the exam type they need Step 2 – CHSi receives exam request Step 3 – CHSi schedules exams and notifies mariner of appointment date. All paperwork/lab kits are sent to the local clinics Step 4 – CHSi network clinic performs Kay Whitson Program Manager Comprehensive Health Services exams and completes all associated paperwork. All paperwork/lab kits are sent to local clinics Step 5 – CHSi network clinic sends completed paperwork to CHSi and lab specimens to lab Step 6 – CHSi conducts quality assurance of all paperwork for completeness Step 7 – CHSi Medical Review Officer reviews record and makes preliminary determination and recommendations Step 8 – CHSi sends completed medical record to SHBP Medical Department According to SHBP Administrator Maggie Bowen, the new clinic system was rolled out March 1. In order to foster a seamless transition to the new system, union and SHBP officials opted to bring ports on-line in a staggered fashion, she said. Following are the dates on which the system went live at the respective ports: Went online effective March 4 n Jacksonville and Norfolk Went online effective March 18 n Tacoma, New York, Houston, Oakland, Piney Point and Ft. Lauderdale Reminder for Prospective Pensioners Requirements Must Be Satisfied to Receive Benefits In order for a pensioner to be eligible for pensioner health benefits from the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan (SHBP), they must meet the following eligibility requirements: n 5,475 days of covered employment under the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan if retiring on a Normal Pension or Early Normal Pension n 4,380 days of covered employment under the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan if retiring on a Disability Pension, and n At least 125 days of covered employment in the calendar year immediately 4 Seafarers LOG 15044_APRIL2013LOG_X.indd 4 preceding the year in which participant becomes eligible for and applies for pension benefits. Covered employment under the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan does not include “Extra Service Credit” or “Supplemental Service” earned under the Seafarers Pension Plan. These days do not count for eligibility under the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan. In addition, days for which a participant may receive more than one day’s credit for one day worked and/ or credit received for vacation days are not counted toward eligibility under the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan. Under the Seafarers Pension Plan Rules, a participant may qualify for a Normal Pension Benefit, an Early Normal Pension Benefit, or a Disability Pension Benefit, but not satisfy the covered employment requirements under the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan for pensioner health benefits. Detailed information about pensioners’ benefits is available under the Member Benefits tab (SHBP section) at www. seafarers.org (see the SHBP Guide for retirees), or you may contact the Seafarers Plans at 1-800-252-4674 to request a printed copy of this guide. Dean Charbonnet Director, Technology Services GCR, Inc. n Went online effective March 25 Algonac, Anchorage, Baltimore, Guam, Harvey, Honolulu, Joilet, Mobile, Philadelphia, Puerto Rico, St. Louis and Wilmington Bowen emphasized that if members require clinic services prior to the date their ports went online and began using the new system, they should continue using the process and clinics they relied on in the past. She pointed out, however, that members will need to go into the halls to schedule and receive receipts to present at clinics to obtain services. Notice to Mariners Don’t Let Bad Timing Cost You Employment With the introduction of the new clinic services program, mariners should keep the following considerations in mind so that they don’t miss out on any employment opportunities: n Since you can now get these services closer to your home, there is at least a three-day window to get into a clinic. The process to schedule an appointment takes longer since paperwork and lab materials have to be sent from the CHSi processing location directly to the clinics. n Some of the exam requests need Medical department approval which requires time to get accomplished. In addition, until you have been through the system the first time, there is an exchange of medical history which also requires time. n Immediate exams have almost been eliminated. This includes drug screens. You can begin the process 60 days before the expiration of your current documents so start early. Be prepared because it takes more time now. April 2013 3/28/2013 6:46:56 AM �GAO Report Refutes Jones Act Critics Study Finds Cabotage Law Good for Puerto Rico A new government study examining the impact of the Jones Act on Puerto Rico has sunk allegations that the Jones Act is costly and inconvenient for those living there. Conducted by the nonpartisan Government Accountability Office (GAO), the study found Puerto Rico’s U.S. domestic container shipping fleet has not only provided top-notch service and reliability, but has also seen significant reductions in price over the last few years. “The (Jones Act) has helped to ensure reliable, regular service between the United States and Puerto Rico – service that is important to the Puerto Rican economy,” read the GAO report’s conclusion. In a statement following the report’s release last month, the American Maritime Partnership (AMP) said the report clearly dispels a series of un-truths perpetuated by a small group of critics pushing for the Jones Act’s repeal. “GAO disproved charges that the Jones Act raises prices for consumers in Puerto Rico,” AMP said in the statement. “GAO specifically said, ‘[S]o many factors influence freight rates and product prices that the independent effect and associated economic costs of the Jones Act cannot be determined.’” AMP, whose affiliates include the SIU, is considered the most broad-based coalition ever assembled to represent the domestic maritime industry. Its 450-plus members span the country and include vessel owners and operators, shipboard and shore-side unions, shipbuilders and repair yards, equipment manufacturers and vendors, dredging and marine construction contractors, trade associations, other coalitions, pro-defense groups, and companies and organizations in other modes of domestic transportation. The Jones Act stipulates that all cargo shipped between U.S. ports be transported on vessels that are owned, built, flagged and crewed by Americans. According to a study by PricewaterhouseCoopers, the Jones Act accounts for approximately 500,000 jobs, more than $100 billion in annual economic input and nearly $11 billion in annual tax revenue. While critics of the Jones Act have argued the law has resulted in higher shipping costs, the GAO study showed no evidence of those charges. If anything, AMP said, the GAO report showed how those criticisms of the Jones Act were baseless and lacked the data to back up their cost-related assertions. “GAO’s report confirmed that previous estimates of the so-called ‘cost’ of the Jones Act are not verifiable and cannot be proven,” AMP said. “In many cases, GAO cited allegations against the American fleet despite admitting that the claims could not be validated or verified.” Conducted between October 2011 and February 2013, the study was the most comprehensive examination of the relationship between the Jones Act and Puerto Rico ever produced. AMP said the large amount of data included in the report showed just how wrong allegations of high Jones Act costs were. “In fact, container shipping rates in Puerto Rico for American companies dropped as much as 17 percent between 2006 and 2010, according to the study,” AMP said. “GAO said there is no guarantee that shipping rates would go down further if the Jones Act were changed.” Aside from its economic significance, the Jones Act is also considered vital to national defense. American mariners have been called on to serve their country time and time again during periods of national crisis or war, and the Jones Act has ensured U.S. Merchant Mariners were available to answer that call. Statements by the U.S. Navy and other segments and supporters of the military have underscored just how important the law is to the country. As the Navy League of the United States put it, “As a maritime nation, the United States depends not only on a strong Navy, Marine Corps and Coast Guard, it also requires a strong commercial maritime industry. The Jones Act must be maintained so that … U.S. citizen mariners can continue to provide the economic and military support that is critical to our national interests.” In its statement, AMP said it was happy to see the GAO report highlight some of the important national security benefits of the Jones Act. “In fact, the study quoted the Defense Department and the U.S. Maritime Administration as saying the contributions of American commercial shipyards are more important than ever as the number of new military vessels being constructed is reduced by federal budget cuts,” AMP said. “American ship construction for Puerto Rico is important for national security because (according to GAO) it ‘help[s shipbuilders] sustain their operations, as well as helps them to retain a skilled workforce and supplier base. Absent new orders, that workforce could be put at risk.” Perez Picked for Labor Secretary President Barack Obama has nomi- so heavily toward corporations and the nated Assistant Attorney General and very wealthy, our country needs leaders former Maryland Labor chief Thomas like Tom Perez to champion the cause Perez to be the next U.S. Secretary of of ordinary working people.” Labor. At the Justice Department, Perez Perez, head of the Justice Depart- cracked down on housing discriminament’s Civil Rights Division, would tion and hate crimes while also fightreplace Hilda Solis, who spent the last ing employers who cheated workers out four years as Obama’s labor secretary. of wages and health care. Prior to that, Perez’s confirmation would make him he served as Maryland’s secretary of the only Latino in the president’s sec- labor, helping to implement the counond-term cabinet. try’s first statewide living-wage law. Born a son of immigrants with Maryland Governor Martin working-class roots, Perez was hailed O’Malley, who picked Perez in 2007 by Obama as someone who understood to head the Maryland Department of the issues facing the middle class and Labor, called him “a valuable and outwould expand opportunities for all standing member” of the state’s cabiAmericans. net. “Like so many Americans, Tom “I am confident that he will serve knows what it’s like to climb the lad- the American people well as the nader of opportunity. He’s the son of tion’s economy continues a strong reDominican parents. He helped pay his covery,” O’Malley said in a statement. way through college “Under his leaderas a garbage colship in Maryland, lector and working he worked diligently at a warehouse. He to find innovative went on to become ways to protect our the first lawyer in state’s workforce his family,” Obama in the toughest of said during a March times. From fore18 nomination cereclosure protection to mony for Perez. “So living-wage implehis story reminds mentation to workus of this counforce development try’s promise, that and skills training, if you’re willing to Tom established an work hard, it doesn’t aggressive portfolio matter who you are, that helped Marywhere you come landers weather a from, what your last changing new econname is – you can omy.” make it if you try.” Perez, meanObama’s choice while, said he’s of Perez as the couneager to get to work. Thomas Perez try’s next labor sec“As you well Labor Secretary Nominee retary was met with know, our nation still praise from many faces critical ecoin the labor community, including the nomic challenges, and the department’s AFL-CIO, to which the SIU is affili- mission is as important as ever,” he ated. In a statement following Perez’s said during his nomination ceremony. nomination, AFL-CIO President Rich- “I am confident that together with our ard Trumka said working men and partners in organized labor, the busiwomen would be well-served by Perez ness community, grassroots commuas head of the Labor Department. nities, Republicans, Democrats, and “Throughout his career, Perez has Independents alike, we can keep makfought to level the playing field and ing progress for all working families. I create opportunities for working peo- look forward to meeting with senators ple, whether in the workplace, the mar- of both parties to discuss the Labor Deketplace or the voting booth,” Trumka partment’s key role – protecting and said. “At a time when our politics tilts growing the middle class.” April 2013 15044_APRIL2013LOG.indd 5 The USNS Choctaw County is pictured last fall at the shipyard. (Photo courtesy Austal) More Jobs on Horizon for CIVMARS, Other Seafarers Second JHSV Completes Builder’s Trials The USNS Choctaw County, the second of the Navy’s new joint high-speed vessels (JHSV), completed builder’s trials March 7-8 in Mobile, Ala. The ship is under construction at Austal USA. Builder’s trials are a key step in the construction and delivery of a vessel. They offer the first chance to operate the ship underway and test overall system performance prior to demonstration to Navy inspectors. As previously reported, the Navy has ordered 10 JHSVs. The first four ships will be manned by federally employed civilian mariners, while the remaining six will be crewed by seafarers working for private operators under contract to the Military Sealift Command (MSC). According to MSC, the Choctaw County’s trials included operating the ship’s propulsion plant for many hours at different power levels, up to full power; testing and calibration of communication and naviga- tional systems; ride control systems testing; and pollution control systems tests. Maneuverability trials tested the ship’s four steerable water jets while a series of high-speed turns demonstrated the stability and agility of the JHSV’s catamaran hull form. The ship reached speeds of more than 41 knots. The Choctaw County is scheduled for delivery this summer. Each ship in the fleet will be 338 feet long. MSC describes the JHSVs as “designed to commercial standards, with limited modifications for military use. [Each] vessel is capable of transporting 600 short tons 1,200 nautical miles at an average speed of 35 knots and can operate in shallow-draft ports and waterways, interfacing with roll-on/roll-off discharge facilities, and on/off-loading a combatloaded Abrams Main Battle Tank (M1A2). Other joint requirements include an aviation flight deck to support day and night aircraft launch and recovery operations.” Seafarers LOG 5 3/26/2013 7:26:32 PM �Seafarers Support Operation Deep Freeze SIU members and AMO officers are pictured on the deck of the Maersk Peary. S IU members recently continued their decades-old tradition of supporting the yearly resupply mission to McMurdo Station in Antarctica – a mobilization known as Operation Deep Freeze. The SIU-crewed ships Maersk Peary (operated by Maersk Line, Limited) and Ocean Giant (operated by Crowley for Intermarine) played vital roles in this year’s mission to the remote scientific research outpost. The Ocean Giant transported nearly seven million pounds of supplies such as frozen and dry food stores, building supplies, vehicles and electronic equipment and parts, according to the U.S. Military Sealift Command (MSC), while the Maersk Peary carried more than six million gallons of diesel fuel, jet fuel and gasoline. Continued on next page The Maersk Peary (right) preps for a refueling with an icebreaker near the station. 6 Seafarers LOG 15044_APRIL2013LOG_X.indd 6 Chief Cook Alberto Insong, Recertified Steward Tony Spain, SA Mark Keller April 2013 3/28/2013 6:47:09 AM �Mariners Resupply Scientific Outpost Continued from Page 6 Civilian mariners have supported the annual mission since 1955. This year, according to MSC, they helped deliver “100 percent of the fuel and about 80 percent of the supplies that researchers and support personnel in Antarctica need to survive and work over the course of a year.” The ships also return with cargo from the station, including “ice core samples carried back to the United States in sub-zero freezer containers, as well as trash and recyclable materials for disposal and equipment no longer required on station.” SIU members aboard the Maersk Peary during Operation Deep Freeze 2013 included Recertified Bosun Ronald Paradise, AB Nathaniel Lynch, AB Vincent Castellano, AB Xavier Alfaro, AB Christopher Allen, AB David Kennedy, Pumpman Virgilio Demegillo, QMED Nicholas Gattuso, QMED Lee Wright, Wiper Elliot Duncan, Recertified Steward Tony Spain, Chief Cook Alberto Insong and SA Mark Keller. Editor’s note: Thanks to Recertified Steward Tony Spain for rounding up and submitting the photos on these two pages, all from the Maersk Peary. Additional photos from the voyage are posted in the Gallery section of the SIU website (www.seafarers.org) and in an album on our Facebook page. The National Science Foundation manages the U.S. Antarctic Program at McMurdo Station. (The Peary is visible near the top of the photo.) U.S. Air Force Col. Gary James (right in photo at left) presents medals and certificates to crew members including (from left) SA Mark Keller, QMED Nicholas Gattuso and Recertified Bosun Ronald Paradise. The Air Force thanked Seafarers for their support by presenting the Antarctica Service Medal (photo above). Engine-department mariners gather for a photo aboard the Maersk Peary. April 2013 15044_APRIL2013LOG_X.indd 7 Seafarers LOG 7 3/28/2013 6:47:12 AM �Seafaring Father, Son Sail Together Again Editor’s note: The following account and the accompanying photos were submitted by Seafarer Alton Hickman Jr. It was truly a blessing to sail with my father again – it had been 16 years since were on the same ship, back in 1996, the Sam Houston. My name is Alton Hickman Jr., and my father’s name is Alton Hickman Sr. Combined, we have 63 years sailing in the SIU: 42 for him, 21 for me. I sail as chief electrician or reefer electrician and my old man sails as QMED. We made a whole 42-day trip together on Maersk’s Sealand Comet this past July 23 through Sept. 4, 2012. I am sending some photos we took while on board. I ship out of the port of Houston, while my father ships out of Wilmington, Calif. The SIU has been very good to both of us, and we’ve been able to achieve success in other areas of life thanks to our good incomes earned aboard SIU-contracted vessels. We have a record store in New Orleans, and my father owns some property. The union has opened doors for the whole family, in fact, and I sincerely hope our story can inspire other seamen to become more business-minded and invest some of the very good money they make out there at sea. You name it, the SIU has been extremely good to us. Chief Electrician Alton Hickman Jr. (pictured above last year aboard the Sealand Comet) credits the union for opening doors for his whole family. Hickman Jr. and his father sailed together in 1996 aboard the Sam Houston (photo at far left) and again last year on the Sealand Comet (photo at immediate left). U.S. Coast Guard Salutes SIU/Crowley Tug Crew Seafarers-contracted Crowley Maritime recently reported that the SIU crew of the tugboat Explorer received kudos from the U.S. Coast Guard for their humanitarian actions late last year. According to the company, Rear Adm. William Baumgartner, commander of the agency’s Seventh District (headquartered in Miami), sent a letter saluting Capt. Andrew Smith and his fellow Jacksonville, Fla.-area Seafarers “for their humanitarian actions, unwavering determination, professionalism and skilled seamanship after they assisted a disabled vessel 30 miles west of Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands, in December. The Explorer arrived on scene soon after the vessel became stranded, and provided assistance to the stricken crew by giving them water, lifejackets, flashlights and a hand-held radio until the Coast Guard arrived on scene to provide assistance.” In addition to Smith, the crew included Chief Mate David W. Keefe, Chief Engineer Robert A. Malouin, AB Marcus Huntley, AB Raymond A. Petterson, and OS Richard C. Smith. Celebrating Safety Milestone at Petty’s Island SIU members at Crowley’s Petty’s Island, N.J., facility in early March celebrated a significant safety achievement: 552 consecutive accident-free days. Officials from the union and the company, including Crowley President/CEO Tom Crowley Jr., gathered with members to recognize the milestone. Among those pictured are SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel, VP Atlantic Coast Joseph Soresi and Philadelphia Port Agent Joe Baselice. SIU boatmen employed by Crowley earned kudos for humanitarian actions. 8 Seafarers LOG 15044_APRIL2013LOG_X.indd 8 April 2013 3/28/2013 6:47:15 AM �2013 AFL-CIO Maritime Trades Department Executive Board Meeting Acting Labor Secretary Harris Advocates View That Unions Are Key to Middle-Class Resurgence Acting U.S. Secretary of Labor Seth Harris recently offered forceful comments reaffirming his belief in the critical importance of unions, and he also cited American maritime labor as a model for part of a national economic recovery. “Any strategy that talks about American workers’ wages must begin with every worker’s right to organize and bargain collectively,” Harris said during his address to the Maritime Trades Department, AFL-CIO executive board Feb. 22 near Orlando, Fla. “It’s very simple: Unions raise wages. Unions assure workers have pensions. Unions win workers health insurance. Unions give workers a voice in their workplace. Unions guarantee fairness and fight discrimination. Unions win paid leave for workers when they’re sick or must care for their family members. Unions are a central pillar of the American middle class.” SIU President Michael Sacco also serves as president of the MTD, which is a constitutional department of the AFL-CIO. The MTD’s 23 affiliated unions and 21 port maritime councils represent 5 million workers; its board includes presidents and other high-ranking officials from those affiliates. When introducing Harris to the 200-plus audience members, Sacco jokingly said the acting secretary credits his success to the foundation he built many years ago working as a field representative for both the SIU and the MTD. But Harris said there is a lot of truth in that sentiment. In fact, he said that during his time as a union representative, what stood out is that the other reps (including, at that time, Mike Sacco) and officials wanted to pave the way for a better life for working families. He admired “their savvy and their passion. They knew that livelihoods and jobs were hanging in the balance, and that families needed a strong labor movement.” That experience, along with working directly with members, “inspired me to devote my career to the cause that we all believe in and the values we all share,” Harris told the board and guests, including several highranking executives from U.S. businesses. “And that is the simple idea that American families should be able to get good jobs; they should be paid a living wage; they should have a voice in their workplaces; they should arrive home safe and healthy after the job is done.” He said the Obama administration shares those commitments and strongly believes the economy must be strengthened “from the middle out.” Echoing an outline from the most recent State of the Union address, Harris said that we as a nation “have to attract more jobs to our shores, equip people with skills to do those jobs, and make sure that hard work leads to a decent, living wage. The unions and employers in this room have been models that we can rely on for answers.” He said America can’t afford to offer corporate tax incentives to move jobs overseas. In fact, he said U.S. tax laws should reward companies that bring back jobs to America and expand hiring here at home. We must also reinvest in rebuilding America’s infrastructure, Harris continued. Exports are up, “but American goods don’t ship themselves. We need a 21st century transportation infrastructure and a growing American-flag merchant fleet that will make the United States the most competitive place in the world to do business.” When it comes to jobs training, President Obama has cited the importance of partnerships between the trainers and employers. Here, Harris said, the maritime industry, along with the building trades and metal trades, “offer a model for other industries. From the (SIU-affiliated) Paul Hall Center at Piney Point (Md.) to the apprenticeship programs that we find all across our country, we see labor and management and skills trainers and job-seekers coming together to build pathways into good middle-class jobs. The employers work with the train- Immediately following his address to the MTD, Acting Labor Secretary Seth Harris (left) stops for a photo with MTD President Michael Sacco (right) and International Union of Operating Engineers President James Callahan. ers to define the competencies that workers will need. The unions and the employers agree how they’ll fund the training and find on-the-job training opportunities. The unions and the trainers test the curriculums, they build the programs, and they recruit the workers. And the workers devote themselves to learning the skills they’ll need to lead to new jobs.” He has been visiting community colleges across the U.S. that are trying to build programs “that look very much like what you would find at Piney Point or any of the training facilities or apprentice programs run by the organizations in this room.” Once a job is secured, Harris said, union representation can help ensure fairness for all concerned. He then addressed the administration’s push to boost the minimum wage and to index it to the cost of living. Harris pointed out that contrary to conventional wisdom, the vast majority (80 percent) of minimumwage earners are not teenagers. “They live life one setback away from disaster.” In his travels, Harris said he has met a number of minimum-wage workers, and without exception they are hard workers just trying to do their best and make ends meet. U.S. Admirals Praise Mariners’ Work, Cooperation Between Unions, Agencies American mariners and their unions are valued partners and crucial assets for the country, said two high-ranking military officers in recent remarks to the Maritime Trades Department (MTD), AFL-CIO executive board. Rear Admiral Mark Buzby, commander, U.S. Military Sealift Command (MSC), and Rear Admiral Joseph Servidio, assistant commandant for prevention policy for the U.S. Coast Guard, addressed the board Feb. 21 near Orlando, Fla. Buzby oversees an agency that operates more than 100 Rear Adm. Mark Buzby, SIU VP Gov’t. Services Kercivilian-crewed military support ships, many of them with mett Mangram SIU crews. He addressed the board for the fourth straight year (and also was a featured speaker at last year’s Seafarers International Union of North America convention). Buzby primarily discussed the potential effects of sequestration on parts of the maritime industry and then his recent voyage aboard the Navy’s first joint high-speed vessel (JHSV), the Seafarers-crewed USNS Spearhead. In the face of the wide-ranging federal cuts and furloughs, he stated, “I pledge to you that we’re going to do everything we possibly can to the benefit of our mariners – to keep them working and keep them from having a nickel taken away from them. They do such tremendous work for us, I owe it to them.” Nevertheless, for the Navy as a whole, Buzby said he expects sequestration, combined SIU Exec. VP Augie Tellez, Rear Adm. Joseph Servidio, SIU Sec.- with previous budget cuts for the current fiscal year, to “have a debilitating effect on us.” Treas. David Heindel April 2013 15044_APRIL2013LOG.indd 9 Responding to pundits who have said the Defense Department should be able to handle the billions of dollars of cuts with minimal difficulty, Buzby declared, “We could easily absorb this if we had the options to absorb it in the right places. But when you’re forced to do it in specific places, or indiscriminately, it really has significant impact. That’s what’s causing us a lot of heartburn.” He reviewed money-saving actions already taken by MSC and other steps being considered, including placing some ships in reduced operating status and cancelling all major exercises. On a brighter note, Buzby described spending four days aboard the Spearhead, the first in a planned fleet of 10 JHSVs. He rode it from the Gulf Coast to Norfolk, Va., and said it’s a great boost to America’s sealift capability. The Spearhead is “basically a big, fast box,” he said. “She can do a number of missions. It’s a tremendous ship manned by 22 mariners who are very highly trained, and let me tell you, they are having a ball. She was definitely worth the wait.” Speed is a significant asset for the ships in this fleet, and the Spearhead, made of aluminum, can sail at 35 knots. It’s 338 feet long, 96 feet wide and can carry 600 tons of cargo in addition to more than 300 troops. The Spearhead will host the change-of-command ceremony May 10 in Little Creek, Va., as Buzby completes his tour as MSC commander. Servidio’s wide-ranging responsibilities at the Coast Continued on Page 11 Seafarers LOG 9 3/26/2013 7:26:47 PM �2013 AFL-CIO Maritime Trades Department Executive Board Meeting ‘It’s Up to Us to Make It Happen’ The blueprint for strengthening the labor movement isn’t simple and the task won’t be easy, but history and solidarity prove it can be done. AFL-CIO President Richard Trumka, a longtime friend of the SIU, delivered that message Feb. 22 when he addressed the executive board of the federation’s Maritime Trades Department (MTD) near Orlando, Fla. “America’s labor unions and America’s working people are in a tough place. There will be no easy answers,” Trumka told the board. “But progress never comes easy. It never has and never will…. It’s up to us to make it happen. Working people want and need progress, and we’re not afraid to go the extra mile.” Trumka called upon personal history – including cooperative experiences with MTD President Michael Sacco (who also serves as SIU president) – as an inspiration for today’s labor movement. He recalled difficult times nearly 40 years ago, when Trumka was a United Mine Workers official (he later became the union’s president) assisting coal miners in Kentucky and Illinois while Sacco was organizing inland boatmen. “We sealed our friendship” at that time, Trumka noted, by supporting each other’s efforts. “Solidarity is a remarkable thing,” he continued. “You can’t put it on a scale to weigh it. You can’t measure it in board feet. It can seem contradictory: The harder it is to do, the more powerful it gets. And when it really gets rolling, solidarity – true solidarity – can come out the winner in any contest, and in the process it makes everybody stronger. “Mike and I have been through a lot together. We know the meaning of true solidarity.” The federation president said labor history is “instructive, and all of us can learn from the past. History helps us gain context for the present. And we can take those lessons and use them to shape a strong vision for the future.” Trumka also talked about the recently released government report on union membership that showed a decline in 2012. He said he worries both about those members who lost work and about their families. “Those numbers are no accident, but the result of sustained effort by our opponents, who want to crush the futures of our members and silence our voices,” he explained. “The lives and livelihoods of real people are at stake. The loss of those members also endangers the institutions of the labor movement. Our unions have fewer resources to put into political battles, to lobby for working families on Capitol Hill, to bargain contracts and to organize new workplaces. “The loss of those members makes it harder to mobilize and win the things your members need and what America needs. I’m talking about fighting against the flags-ofconvenience. I’m talking about cracking down on piracy – and I’m glad to say that struggle is going fairly well. I’m talking about the defense of the Jones Act, and your advocacy of maritime infrastructure, of adequate ports and harbors, of connecting rail and trucking to our shipping centers, of so many other important issues you advocate for.” However, he also pointed out that tens of thousands of people in 2012 visited the AFLCIO online to inquire about forming or joining a union. Candidly as always, he followed up by saying not enough people view unions as vehicles to better their lives. “I’d say we have a laundry list of reasons why that’s the case,” Trumka stated. “The broken NLRB, feckless political friends and ironclad political opponents, bad actors in business, but in the end, those reasons aren’t good enough. We also know our unions haven’t done enough to change and to reach out to those workers on their ground, not ours. We have to do better.” Again reflecting on labor history, he said that today’s advocates “must use the institutions of our unions to grow the movement of labor, and then to regularize and institutionalize the strongest elements of that move- AFL-CIO President Richard Trumka ment. That’s what the United Mine Workers did under John L. Lewis, with the organizing committees that built the great unions of the CIO: the Steelworkers, the Communications Workers and so many others. The growth of unions in the 1930s, 1940s and 1950s didn’t come about by accident but as a result of hard work, of creative and relentless work. We need to do the same thing today. And, to realize that vision, we need courage and a belief that the impossible can be pos- Hawaii Governor: ‘We Can Win This Thing’ Labor’s agenda is good for America, but the only way to enact it is by electing politicians who’ll support working families, said a longtime SIU ally. Hawaii Governor Neil Abercrombie stressed the ongoing need for grassroots political action and also covered other key topics when he kicked off the Maritime Trades Department, AFL-CIO executive board meetings Feb. 21 near Orlando, Fla. Always a favorite speaker at MTD gatherings, the former congressman told board members and guests that next year’s congressional campaigns have already begun – and that organized labor must be active in them. Abercrombie credited the labor movement for last year’s get-out-the-vote efforts, including a massively successful online voter registration drive in California. He said unions and other labor organizations also did a good job getting younger voters to the polls – their numbers were up significantly compared to the previous election. As those in the movement well know, however, the struggle never ends, and Abercrombie said it’s not too soon to focus on the 2014 U.S. House of Representatives races. He said that while maritime is a bipartisan issue, it’s important to put a pro-worker majority in power. “If we do it, then we can begin to put the agenda of the Maritime Trades into action,” he stated. “We’ve got these values that have sustained the labor movement throughout its entire existence. They’re at stake right now. The next campaign is already under way. We’ve got to find those candidates that are going to be representative of the values that your membership expects you to stand up for – expects us to stand up for. It can be done. “Labor has always been about solidarity: One for all and all for one,” he continued. “An injury to one is an injury to all. Those are the kinds of values – the fundamentals – that make the labor movement what it is. And so I’m asking you to join together and we can win this thing. And when we win this thing, it means America wins.” 10 Seafarers LOG 15044_APRIL2013LOG_X.indd 10 Electing pro-worker candidates is just one step, however. The governor said Congress’ workings have become “totally dysfunctional.” Hawaii Gov. Neil Abercrombie sible. We need a serious and appraising eye, and the absolutely certain belief that every worker – every single worker – deserves a voice on the job and a chance to improve his or her life through collective action. America needs that now, today. “My friends, ours is an important job, a sacred responsibility. It’s time for us to stop wishing the world were different. It’s time to make it different…. We will climb this hill and we will win – together!” Moreover, the turnover on Capitol Hill just in the last dozen years has left fewer elected representatives and senators who are familiar with the maritime industry. Educating new members of Congress is a vital mission for the MTD and the entire industry, he said. Turning to the economy, Abercrombie said workers are suffering from incomes that have been stagnant for many years, and from a corresponding lack of savings. He said the all-too-common sight of adults moving back into their parents’ homes reflects the desperate times. America must address “the greatest income disparity since the Great Depression. That [doesn’t reflect] a prosperous, working middle class,” he said. “Real income is stagnant or declining for millions. This is America! How can that be?” He reminded everyone that America can overcome these challenges. We had a balanced budget during the Clinton administration and were debating whether to pay off the national debt, he recalled, pointing out those days aren’t ancient history. Abercrombie also spoke highly of project labor agreements, and cited current construction of housing for military families as an example of how PLAs provide benefits. That housing in part is a result of bipartisan efforts that Abercrombie helped spearhead. Within the program, every single house is union-built, and every one (there are thousands) “has come in under budget and ahead of schedule.” Using his state as an example, Abercrombie said that many politicians and pundits have erroneously ascribed the nation’s economic woes to too much government spending. “We need productive domestic investment,” he explained, adding the problem isn’t too much spending, but rather “not investing in ourselves.” He said Hawaii is a good example of how it can and should work: Employment there is up, interest rates are down. “The prosperity is going up because we’re investing in our own people and our own infrastructure, and that’s what needs to be done. And you have to put people into office that are going to understand that.” Finally, to those who would say labor’s work is done and unions aren’t needed, he asserted, “We need them now more than ever before.” April 2013 3/28/2013 6:47:17 AM �2013 AFL-CIO Maritime Trades Department Executive Board Meeting Executives Agree, Jones Act Vital for America Even though Matthew Cox and Donald Dame work in different sectors of the American maritime industry, they emphatically agree that the Jones Act is an indispensable contributor to U.S. national and economic security. Cox is president and CEO of Matson Navigation, a Seafarers-contracted company that operates vessels both in the domestic and international trades. Dame is the vice president of human resources at General Dynamics NASSCO, a union shipyard that builds commercial and military vessels. Both men addressed the executive board of the Maritime Trades Department, AFL-CIO, during late February meetings near Orlando, Fla. While the Jones Act is a common topic at MTD gatherings, it’s particularly timely now, as the nation’s freight cabotage law is under well-funded, deceptive attacks by parties whose only possible interest is sinking the U.S. Merchant Marine. The law mandates that goods moving from one domestic port to another be carried aboard ships that are crewed, built, owned and flagged American. Cox stressed that the Jones Act must be maintained in its entirety, including the U.S.-build component. He said Matson “has put its money where its mouth is” in backing that requirement – they spent more than $500 million from 2002-2006 having vessels built at Aker Philadelphia Shipyard (also a union facility). And, Matson is finalizing plans to replace two older ships with ones built in America. (Overall, the company has 10 containerships and three rollon/roll-off vessels in its Jones Act fleet, plus several barges.) “This is an essential part of the Jones Act,” he told the board. “It provides employment for U.S. shipyards and provides capabilities – these skills that are important (in building commercial ships) are also important to the U.S. military.” He said that although it’s more expensive to build in a U.S. yard, “these are assets that will last 30 years or more if properly maintained. If you take that cost and you amortize it over many years, it’s actually a very small component of our total operating costs.” Cox added that another benefit of building at home is that it lessens the likelihood of the country having to depend on foreign nations to support the industry and to meet U.S. sealift needs. He also mentioned a PricewaterhouseCoopers study that demonstrated the Jones Act’s hugely positive impact on America. The study showed the law helps sustain a half-million U.S. jobs and generates more than $100 billion in annual economic output along with $11 billion in annual taxes. Cox said the nation simply can’t afford to outsource those jobs to foreigners. Finally, he emphasized the importance of cooperative efforts from all segments of the industry. For example, Cox mentioned that during the past decade or so, maritime has lost many members of Congress who understood and supported the industry. Educating newer members is a vital task. “Working together is essential,” he stated. “In the Maritime Trades, you’ve long understood the power of working together. It’s important for us on the commercial side to get the owners of various companies to work together with a single voice, to complement the voices of labor.” Dame gave a riveting – and sobering – presentation demonstrating the undesirable parallels between U.S. and United Kingdom (UK) shipbuilding. He said that while it’s not too late to revitalize the industry, we’re on a dangerous course. Since 1953, the U.S. has lost more than 300 shipyards, both commercial and naval, Dame reported. The country now has around 100 yards; the UK, following a similar decline, has five. “We can do something about it,” Dame stated. The expected replacement of ships in the domestic trades “offers hope for U.S. shipbuilding. This requires a strong and intact Jones Act. A healthy Jones Act ensures preservation of our supplier base, our design and production workforces, and of course our seafarers. Amending the Jones Act would wipe out most U.S. commercial Donald Dame General Dynamics NASSCO VP Matthew Cox Matson President/CEO yards and shipping companies. Furthermore, it would limit U.S. Merchant Mariner employment to MSC (the Military Sealift Command).” He stressed the importance of the entire industry actively supporting pro-Jones Act representatives at every level of government, and also called for developing a national transportation policy, led by the Department of Transportation, that includes adequately funding the Title XI loan guarantee program while streamlining the application process. “The U.S. cannot expect to be a global power without the ability to build the breadth of naval ships it requires,” Dame added. “In time, this ability will be lost without commercial shipbuilding to share the costs and develop new technologies. Preserving both commercial and naval shipbuilding will require a shared, concentrated effort by government and industry and labor to develop a national policy that prioritizes shipbuilding. “As the Brits have found,” he continued, “there is an inflection point in the industry where the ability to build certain ships no longer exists. I would argue that we are on the path to that point. While the fate of shipbuilding in the UK may already be written, it is not too late for the U.S.” (He mentioned that the UK recently turned to a foreign yard to build four ships for defense purposes, due to a lack of domestic resources.) Dame wrapped up his talk with a quote from author and political scientist George Friedman: “The United States controls all of the oceans, and that control is not only the foundation of America’s security but also the foundation of its ability to shape international systems. Maintaining its control of the world’s oceans is the single most important goal for the United States geopolitically.” Officers Give Mariners Thumbs Up Continued from Page 9 Union Officials Update Board on Campaigns Secretary-Treasurers from two MTD affiliates – Steve Bertelli (left) of the Bakery, Confectionery, Tobacco Workers and Grain Millers, and Dan Kane (right) of the United Mine Workers – updated the executive board on critical campaigns involving their respective unions. Bertelli discussed the Hostess bankruptcy and what his union is doing to support members who worked for the company, while Kane explained how the Mine Workers are fighting back against attempts by Patriot Coal to squirm out of its obligations to members and retirees. The board unanimously approved statements fully backing both unions’ efforts. April 2013 15044_APRIL2013LOG_X.indd 11 Guard include overseeing inspections and compliance, marine transportation systems, and commercial regulations and standards. He covered three main topics in his speech: the Maritime Labor Convention, 2006 (MLC); the most recent amendments to the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW); and maritime piracy. Servidio described the MLC as “one of the most significant pieces of international legislation to come out of the United Nations system in the recent past.” It is known as a bill of rights for mariners. He pointed out that it takes effect in August and serves as a revision and consolidation of 37 separate existing International Labor Organization conventions. While the U.S. meets or exceeds most if not all minimum standards in the new convention but hasn’t signed off on it, “that doesn’t mean we’re not interested in ratifying this most important convention…. I’ve made it a high priority within the Coast Guard to do what is necessary to move this to the Senate” so they’ll facilitate ratification, he explained. After thanking SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel (who is also an official for the International Transport Workers’ Federation) for “his leadership and tremendously significant contributions to this most important effort” of advancing the MLC around the world, Servidio pointed out that if America doesn’t ratify it by August, U.S. ships will be subject to the convention’s standards when calling on nations that have approved it. For that reason, the Coast Guard will offer a certificate of voluntary compliance for qualified U.S.-flag vessels at their request. Turning to the STCW convention, Ser- vidio thanked maritime labor for providing valuable feedback that helped the agency avoid hastily issuing new regulations. Nevertheless, the amendments “require action by our government – in this case, the promulgation of regulations necessary to implement these amendments and to assure that U.S. seafarers and U.S. shipping maintain an equal footing with international competitors.” Regulations for the final rule have been developed and “are going through the final stages of review within the government,” he said, adding that he expects them to be posted “in the very near future.” Finally, he offered a detailed look at the Coast Guard’s anti-piracy work, and said that while significant progress has been made, piracy remains “an issue of grave concern to the U.S. and the Coast Guard and one that I know is of interest to all seafarers…. We can’t let our guard down.” Speaking of maritime labor as a whole, Servidio stated, “We have continually enjoyed a collaborative relationship with our seafarer organizations…. Our partnerships with the maritime community at large reflect our commitment to protecting seafarers’ and (other) workers’ interests, which I personally discussed as recently as last fall when I met with many of the union leaders present today.” He described union members as “the eyes and ears of our maritime community, and a vital component of any maritime safety and security system…. The Coast Guard is well aware of the contributions made by mariners in both our domestic and our international shipping, and how important shipping is to the U.S. economy. You play an instrumental role in keeping us safe and secure, and facilitating commerce and trade. I’m committed to making sure we do good by you, because you do good by us.” Seafarers LOG 11 3/28/2013 6:47:20 AM �2013 AFL-CIO Maritime Trades Department Executive Board Meeting Ron Ault President Metal Trades Department Joseph Nigro President SMART Robert Scardelletti President TCU James Callahan President Operating Engineers Tom Bethel President AMO Mike Jewell President MEBA Michel Desjardins President SIU of Canada Walter Wise President Iron Workers Jim Chalmers, President Lower Great Lakes & Tributaries Port Council of Canada Ron Krochmalny President Michigan Maritime Trades Port Council Warren Fairley International VP Boilermakers Bernard Hostein Asst. to President Steelworkers Daniel Duncan Exec. SecretaryTreasurer MTD Scott Winter Vice President MTD George Tricker VP Contracts SIU Dean Corgey VP Gulf Coast SIU MTD at a Glance The Maritime Trades Department is a constitutionally mandated department of the AFL-CIO. It was formed in 1946, and its 23 affiliates include the SIU. Altogether, those unions represent more than 5 million members. The MTD also features 21 port maritime councils. SIU President Michael Sacco also serves as MTD president, a post to which he most recently was reelected in 2009. The coverage on pages 9-13 reflects some of the happenings at this year’s MTD executive board meeting, which took place Feb. 21-22 near Orlando, Fla. Check out the MTD’s website (maritimetrades. org) for additional information about the department. Lynn Tucker General VP Machinists Gunnar Lundeberg President SUP Anthony Poplawski President MFOW Ken Rigmaiden Exec. General VP Painters As the meeting ended, the MTD honored James Williams (center), president of the International Union of Painters and Allied Trades, who is retiring. MTD President Michael Sacco (left) presented him with a ship’s wheel; AFL-CIO President Richard Trumka (right) also joined in the salute along with the MTD executive board and guests. Ralph Maly Vice President CWA Joseph Condo International VP TCU Desiree Gralewicz Secretary-Treasurer SIU of Canada Brian Bryant Chief of Staff to VP Machinists Sito Pantoja General VP Machinists Morris Harvey President American Merchant Marine Veterans Nick Marrone VP West Coast SIU Tom Orzechowski VP Great Lakes SIU Joseph Soresi VP Atlantic Coast SIU Don Nolan Vice President Paul Hall Center 12 Seafarers LOG 15044_APRIL2013LOG.indd 12 Brian Schoeneman Legislative Director SIU James L. Henry Chairman, Board of Directors American Maritime Partnership John Baker President Cleveland Port Maritime Council April 2013 3/26/2013 7:27:04 PM �2013 AFL-CIO Maritime Trades Department Executive Board Meeting ITF Official Describes Challenges, Opportunities Pointing to recent successes and big developments on the horizon, Acting International Transport Workers’ Federation General Secretary Steve Cotton said the coming months and years will be ripe with opportunity for the international labor movement. “The world is changing,” Cotton said during a speech to the Maritime Trades Department, AFL-CIO executive board meeting near Orlando, Fla., on Feb. 21. “We have a responsibility … to challenge ourselves to deliver a brighter future for working men and women.” Cotton singled out piracy, the upcoming implementation of the Maritime Labor Convention, 2006 (MLC) and the changing face of the ITF as where the challenges and opportunities lie. Much can be done, he added, if the international labor community continues to work together. Concerning piracy, Cotton spoke of the recent drop in Somali pirate attacks, while adding the ITF and its allies would continue to fight back where the threat remains. “Yes, the situation is changing on the Indian Ocean, but there are still many people in the world looking to use piracy as an opportunity to make a fast buck and using seafarers as hostages for that money,” he said. “The battle goes on with piracy and we have to continue responding to the issue.” Part of that response is being led by the ITF Seafarers Trust, whose trustees are chaired by SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel. The trust has contributed more than $1.4 million to help piracy victims and their families. “It helps the families of seafarers when their loved ones are being held hostage, but it also helps the seafarers when they return home to come to terms with life after being held in captivity,” Cotton said. “There’s a lot of good work being done there. We’ve challenged the industry to put (more) money in the pot to treat them.” As for the upcoming implementation of the MLC, Cotton said the convention will not only improve mariners’ rights around the world, but could also help those seafarers advance their standard of living. The MLC is set for implementation in August 2013 and is widely considered a “bill of rights” for seafarers, providing minimum workplace standards for mariners worldwide. “The Maritime Labor Convention is a convention to protect everybody, particularly those who don’t have union agreements. But we in the ITF don’t feel it’s just legislation,” Cotton said. “We believe it should be used as a mighty weapon to raise standards, irrespective of flag.” He added that every ITF inspector has been given training on the convention by the International Labor Organization. “And they’ll be using every part of that legislation to make sure seafarers receive protections similar to those working under collective bargaining agreements,” Cotton said as applause filled the room. As the international labor climate continues to change, Cotton said the opportunities for organizing and expansion could only grow. He used the story Shwe Aung, an ITF inspector for the SIU, to illustrate International solidarity was evident at the meeting, including among (from left) Acting ITF General Secretary Steve Cotton, ITF Inspector Shwe Aung, SIU of Canada President Michel Desjardins, Indonesian Seafarers Union President Hanafi Rustandi and SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel, who chairs the ITF Seafarers’ Section. the way the international community works together to achieve common goals. Years ago, after being blacklisted in his home country of Burma for pro-union activities, Aung journeyed first to Venezuela and Brazil and then made his way to Texas to apply for asylum. For Aung, returning to anti-union Burma at the time would have likely resulted in prison. Thanks to help from the ITF and SIU, Aung was granted asylum and has worked in Texas ever since. But with Burma undergoing political changes that once again allow for union activities, Aung has the opportunity to periodically return home and organize his fellow countrymen. Situations like that, Cotton said, illustrate how important it is for the international labor community to work together and how things could continue to improve. “It’s the epitome of what the ITF is all about,” he said. Headquartered in London, the ITF has approximately 760 affiliated unions, including the SIU. Collectively, those unions represent more than 4.6 million members. Investing in Union Projects a Win-Win Sportsmen’s Alliance Affords Various As president and managing director of the AFL-CIO’s Investment Trust Corp. (ITC), Michael Stotz often gets to dispel the myth that investing in unionbuilt and -serviced construction projects results in measly returns. “I get the opportunity to say, ‘no, quite frankly it’s the contrary,’” Stotz said during a speech Feb. 22 at the Maritime Trades Department, AFL-CIO executive board meeting near Orlando, Fla. “We have skilled workers, we have excellent contractors. We see that as a strength and we do it day-in and dayout.” The truth, he added, is investing in union-built and -serviced projects not only brings about impressive returns, but also provides thousands of workers with union jobs and the good pay and benefits that come with them. In short, everybody wins. And he has the numbers to prove it. His organization – which coordinates Michael Stotz, President AFL-CIO Investment Trust Corp. April 2013 15044_APRIL2013LOG.indd 13 with the pension community to fund those union projects – currently has more than $1.6 billion worth of new projects in the pipeline and is raking in record returns on its investments. Those projects include everything from a $420 million building in New York City to undertakings in places as far away as Chicago, Seattle and Minneapolis. “Right now the (ITC’s) Building Investment Trust has more projects in construction or under development than any time in the history of the program,” Stotz said. “Experts have said our portfolio is very well-balanced and in great shape.” That’s good news, he added, for union workers as well. “Today, across the country, thousands of union members are working because of active Building Investment Trust construction projects,” Stotz said. “Once those jobs are completed, every service and maintenance jobs in those buildings will be union. Those service contracts will ensure permanent union jobs long into the future.” Pointing to these facts, Stotz said the labor movement could have an even bigger political and economic impact if it decided to invest more in such projects. If just 10 percent of the more than $4 trillion sitting in public and private union pension funds across America was leveraged for similar projects, Stotz said more union jobs would be created and the world – especially enemies of the labor movement – would take notice of the success. “They are already paying close attention, hoping that we fail,” Stotz said. “Our projects and our jobs are only limited by our ability to secure union pension dollars.” The result, Stotz added, would be a victory for the labor movement, union workers and the country’s overall economy. “What better case could you make for the power of solidarity?” he said. Events for Unions’ Outdoor Enthusiasts With millions of union members regularly the television show “Your Brotherhood Outenjoying outdoor activities like hunting and fish- doors” – a program that was recently voted the ing, the Union Sportsmen’s Alliance (USA) has most popular hunting and fishing show on the found great success in focusing on where the in- Sportsmen’s Channel. terests of the labor movement and outdoor enthu“We’re proud to inform and engage millions siasts meet. of outdoors men and women,” Myers said. In a speech to the Maritime Trades DepartHe added the strong link between union workment, AFL-CIO executive board meeting near ers and the outdoors was not much of a surprise Orlando, Fla., on Feb. 22, – more than 6 million of USA Executive Director the 13 million active union Fred Myers said those intermembers working with ests are more common than AFL-CIO-affiliated unions many people realize. Formed take part in hunting, fisha little over five years ago to ing, shooting, camping or advance causes important to some other outdoor activity. union members and outdoor Without the opportunities enthusiasts, the USA now provided by having the good has more than 60,000 mempay and benefits of a union bers and has done a tremenjob, Myers said, many of dous amount of good across those workers would likely the country. not have the opportunity to “They’re passionate enjoy those activities in the about their families, they’re first place. passionate about their jobs “However they enjoy the and their union and they’re outdoors, their union plays passionate about their love a huge, huge part in makfor the outdoors,” Myers said ing their outdoor way of of the USA members. “Being life possible,” Myers said. a sportsman or woman is not “Without a good union job something these folks do; it’s and without a fair wage and who they are.” safe working conditions and With its flagship Boots excellent health care and Union Sportsmen’s Alliance on the Ground program, the Executive Director Fred Myers guaranteed time off, it would be USA gathers its highly skilled impossible for these millions of union members from a variety union sportsmen and women to of unions and trades to volunteer on outdoors- … have the opportunity to pursue their outdoor related projects that revitalize communities and passions.” show residents the value of union workers. The Thanks to the formation of the USA, Myers result, Myers said, has been more outdoor offer- said those members now have an organization ings and a public that better understands the role that not only advances their outdoor interests, but union workers play in their communities. helps to secure the good union jobs that provide “They’re empowering outdoors men and the opportunity to explore those interests. women and creating good will,” he said. “They’re “For the first time in the history of the labor putting forth a positive image of our union part- movement these union sportsmen and women ners in key communities where they live and have an outdoor home,” Myers said. “The USA work. That is what the Union Sportsmen’s Alli- is truly a union of the outdoors.” ance is all about.” More information is available at unionsportsThey also have a national presence through men.org. Seafarers LOG 13 3/26/2013 7:27:06 PM �4/13 14 Seafarers LOG 15044_APRIL2013LOG.indd 14 April 2013 3/26/2013 8:42:58 PM �3 Mariners Should Check TWIC Expiration Dates Seafarers are reminded to check the expiration dates on their federally issued Transportation Worker Identification Credentials (TWIC), particularly now that the first documents issued back in 2007 have begun expiring. Mariners weren’t required to secure TWICs until April 2009, but the cards were available beginning in October 2007. So, any of the TWICs issued at that time with five-year expiration dates are due for renewal. Additionally and as previously reported, the Transportation Security Administration is offering certain TWIC holders the option of replacing their expiring TWICs with a three-year Extended Expiration Date (EED) TWIC. That credential costs $60 and may be obtained via a single trip to an enrollment center. Detailed information about the three-year credential is available directly from the TSA at 1-866-347-8942, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. Eastern, and at www.tsa. gov/twic. Due to the large number of workers requesting EED TWICs, the agency requests that individuals order the EED TWIC “no sooner than four months prior to your current TWIC expiration date.” Personals Retired Seafarer Matt Carroll would like to hear from other retired or active mariners in the El Paso, Texas, area. Matt may be reached at: 1011 N. St. Vrain Street, El Paso, TX 79902. Former member John Merriam submitted the following message: I am in the process of publishing books about two trips I took in the 1970s and am searching for photographs of the Delta C-2, S.S. Del Valle, and a T-2 stretched out to about 600 feet called the S.S. Producer. The Producer was renamed American Rice. If you have photos of either of these ships, please send a copy to me at Fishermen’s Terminal in Seattle: 4005 20th Ave. West, #110, Seattle, WA 98199. Charlie Smith, QMED who sailed out of New Orleans in the 1990s, please contact your old shipmate Jimmy Sabga at (905) 727-4858. May & June 2013 Membership Meetings Piney Point.............................................Monday: May 6, June 3 Algonac...................................................Friday: May 10, June 7 Baltimore..............................................Thursday: May 9, June 6 Guam.............................................Thursday: May 23, June 20 Honolulu...............................................Friday: May 17, June 14 Houston...............................................Monday: May 13, June10 Jacksonville.......................................Thursday: May 9, June 6 Joliet................................................Thursday: May 16, June 13 Mobile..........................................Wednesday: May 15, June 12 New Orleans...........................................Tuesday: May 14, June 11 New York.......................................Tuesday: May 7, June 4 Norfolk...............................................Thursday: May 9, June 6 Oakland...........................................Thursday: May 16, June 13 Philadelphia...................................Wednesday: May 8, June 5 Port Everglades................................Thursday: May 16, June 13 San Juan..............................................Thursday: May 9, June 6 St. Louis.................................................Friday: May 17, June 14 Tacoma..................................................Friday: May 24, June 21 Wilmington..............................................Monday: May 20, June 17 Each port’s meeting starts at 10:30 a.m. April 2013 15044_APRIL2013LOG.indd 15 Dispatchers’ Report for Deep Sea February 12, 2013 - March 15, 2013 Port Total Registered All Groups A B C Total Shipped All Groups A B Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS 16 2 11 12 3 7 58 49 11 8 17 51 17 26 5 2 13 42 2 35 387 6 1 5 10 3 7 12 38 4 6 7 26 25 8 3 2 6 16 1 21 207 3 1 0 2 0 1 3 3 3 2 3 2 4 1 1 0 1 6 1 4 41 Deck Department 24 11 1 0 9 3 11 11 3 3 3 3 41 6 23 13 11 5 16 5 15 3 48 7 14 12 17 5 3 1 3 0 8 2 33 8 2 1 30 16 315 115 3 0 0 3 0 0 5 1 1 2 0 0 1 1 0 0 1 3 1 1 23 0 0 1 7 0 2 21 9 1 4 6 18 4 10 1 1 2 8 0 17 112 23 6 6 25 5 20 83 74 9 17 18 68 28 44 12 0 12 66 7 82 605 18 4 7 17 7 8 24 41 8 6 5 44 44 11 5 3 16 30 5 47 350 3 4 2 6 2 1 4 2 4 1 4 6 13 3 1 0 7 3 2 6 74 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS 2 0 5 6 0 7 16 19 3 5 6 15 10 10 5 2 2 18 2 25 158 7 2 3 7 1 4 15 14 1 1 2 9 20 10 3 2 6 10 1 16 134 1 0 1 4 0 0 2 2 0 1 0 0 0 3 0 1 0 1 0 2 18 Engine Department 8 4 1 2 5 4 8 1 3 0 7 1 26 10 18 7 7 4 8 2 5 2 12 9 7 16 7 3 2 1 1 0 1 4 11 3 2 2 9 8 148 83 2 0 1 2 0 0 1 0 0 1 0 1 1 1 0 1 0 0 0 0 11 0 1 3 2 0 2 10 2 0 0 3 5 4 3 0 0 2 4 0 3 44 3 1 7 14 1 17 33 45 3 10 4 26 24 16 7 3 3 26 2 33 278 11 1 5 7 1 9 15 26 3 2 4 19 30 11 5 5 15 17 1 28 215 3 0 2 3 0 0 3 6 1 0 0 7 0 4 1 0 1 2 1 8 42 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS 4 0 5 12 1 16 16 26 2 5 7 22 12 17 3 5 2 18 3 28 204 2 0 1 6 2 2 6 8 0 4 1 8 8 3 0 2 3 5 1 6 68 1 0 0 1 0 0 1 1 2 1 1 0 3 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 12 Steward Department 2 4 0 1 3 2 10 1 2 2 6 1 7 7 19 8 1 1 6 1 5 0 15 4 7 6 12 1 2 0 7 3 1 1 16 2 2 1 23 1 146 47 3 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 0 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 8 0 0 1 4 0 0 3 12 0 1 1 5 6 6 0 0 1 4 1 9 54 9 0 8 13 3 24 31 33 3 9 8 30 16 26 3 2 5 27 4 58 312 4 2 0 6 2 3 9 11 3 2 2 13 16 4 0 2 3 7 2 6 97 0 0 0 4 0 0 2 2 2 3 0 0 3 2 1 0 0 2 0 1 22 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS 4 0 0 0 0 3 4 4 2 1 3 4 0 4 0 0 2 9 0 7 47 10 3 6 7 2 8 9 12 7 3 3 26 13 12 1 1 0 8 0 17 148 6 0 0 5 0 8 6 16 3 1 2 14 31 4 1 1 0 4 0 14 116 Entry Other 2 19 0 0 0 4 0 8 0 1 4 3 1 6 3 6 2 9 0 4 1 0 6 10 0 6 2 11 0 0 0 0 0 0 6 7 0 0 3 3 30 97 1 0 1 0 0 4 3 5 0 0 0 2 14 0 0 0 0 3 0 1 34 0 0 0 3 0 1 2 2 0 0 0 1 0 1 0 0 0 3 0 0 13 4 0 0 0 0 4 7 5 1 2 3 12 1 6 1 0 2 14 0 12 74 19 3 2 8 0 13 18 19 1 2 5 43 29 16 2 4 0 10 1 45 240 18 0 0 5 1 15 6 26 3 2 3 32 40 13 3 2 3 10 0 43 225 GRAND TOTAL: 796 557 187 639 76 223 1,269 902 363 342 C Trip Reliefs Registered on Beach All Groups A B C Seafarers LOG 15 3/26/2013 7:27:09 PM �Inquiring Seafarer Seafarers International Union Directory Michael Sacco, President Augustin Tellez, Executive Vice President David Heindel, Secretary-Treasurer George Tricker, Vice President Contracts Tom Orzechowski, Vice President Lakes and Inland Waters Dean Corgey, Vice President Gulf Coast Nicholas J. Marrone, Vice President West Coast Joseph T. Soresi, Vice President Atlantic Coast Kermett Mangram, Vice President Government Services HEADQUARTERS 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746 (301) 899-0675 ALGONAC 520 St. Clair River Dr., Algonac, MI 48001 (810) 794-4988 ANCHORAGE 721 Sesame St., #1C, Anchorage, AK 99503 (907) 561-4988 BALTIMORE 2315 Essex St., Baltimore, MD 21224 (410) 327-4900 GUAM P.O. Box 3328, Hagatna, Guam 96932 Cliffline Office Ctr. Bldg., Suite 103B 422 West O’Brien Dr., Hagatna, Guam 96910 (671) 477-1350 HONOLULU 606 Kalihi St., Honolulu, HI 96819 (808) 845-5222 HOUSTON 1221 Pierce St., Houston, TX 77002 (713) 659-5152 JACKSONVILLE 5100 Belfort Rd., Jacksonville, FL 32256 (904) 281-2622 JOLIET 10 East Clinton St., Joliet, IL 60432 (815) 723-8002 MOBILE 1640 Dauphin Island Pkwy, Mobile, AL 36605 (251) 478-0916 Editor’s note:This month’s question was answered by SIU members in Piney Point, Md. maraderie with the guys. We have a lot of fun. It’s hard work sometimes, but it’s a lot of fun. Question: What do you miss about home when you’re at sea and what do you miss about seafaring when you’re at home? Keith White Deckhand When I’m at sea I miss my daughter. She’s my whole life – I couldn’t imagine life without her. When I’m at home, I miss making money and I miss the ca- Damien Bautista QMED I don’t really miss anything about home. I can’t wait to get out (to sea). I really like the routine. I like having something to do. When I’m at home I have to find something to occupy the day. I don’t like being bored throughout the day. Jason Babbitt OMU When I’m at sea I miss my loved ones; I miss my girlfriend. And I miss the freedom of sleeping in late and going to Burger King to grab a burger. When I’m at home I miss being able to see the sights and check out all these new places. And I like keeping busy and that’s kind of hard to do when you’re at home. You can only do so much stuff. Ryan Papa Wiper (At sea) I miss having the highspeed Internet. You don’t really get much of that at sea. I usually try to get what I can from the Internet before (shipping out) so I can take it out with me. (At home) I miss getting paid and keeping my mind busy. Work is work anyway you look at it, but I like the mental challenge. I miss being with them and being on land. When I’m at home I start missing work after some time. You’ve got this gap afterward. You always have to make an adjustment during the first couple of weeks. Whether you’re first getting on the ship or whether you’re just getting home, you’ve got to make that adjustment. Salah Saleh GUDE (At sea) I miss my family. I like going out with them and Pic-From-The-Past NEW ORLEANS 3911 Lapalco Blvd., Harvey, LA 70058 (504) 328-7545 NEW YORK 635 Fourth Ave., Brooklyn, NY 11232 (718) 499-6600 Government Services Division: (718) 499-6600 NORFOLK 115 Third St., Norfolk, VA 23510 (757) 622-1892 OAKLAND 1121 7th St., Oakland, CA 94607 (510) 444-2360 PHILADELPHIA 2604 S. 4 St., Philadelphia, PA 19148 (215) 336-3818 PINEY POINT P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674 (301) 994-0010 PORT EVERGLADES 1221 S. Andrews Ave., Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33316 (954) 522-7984 SANTURCE 1057 Fernandez Juncos Ave., Stop 16 Santurce, PR 00907 (787) 721-4033 ST. LOUIS/ALTON 4581 Gravois Ave., St. Louis, MO 63116 (314) 752-6500 TACOMA 3411 South Union Ave., Tacoma, WA 98409 (253) 272-7774 WILMINGTON 510 N. Broad Ave., Wilmington, CA 90744 (310) 549-4000 Seafarers gather at the New York hall for a membership meeting in early 1947. The union’s headquarters was located in New York until 1982. If anyone has a vintage union-related photograph he or she would like to share with other Seafarers LOG readers, please send it to the Seafarers LOG, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. Photographs will be returned, if so requested. High-resolution digital images may be sent to webmaster@seafarers.org 16 Seafarers LOG 15044_APRIL2013LOG.indd 16 April 2013 3/26/2013 7:27:14 PM �Welcome Ashore Each month, the Seafarers LOG pays tribute to the SIU members who have devoted their working lives to sailing aboard U.S.-flag vessels on the deep seas, inland waterways or Great Lakes. Listed below are brief biographical sketches of those members who recently retired from the union. The brothers and sisters of the SIU thank those members for a job well done and wish them happiness and good health in the days ahead. DEEP SEA FRANKLIN BANDOH Brother Franklin Bandoh, 68, was born in Ghana. He became an SIU member during the 2001 merger with the National Maritime Union. Brother Bandoh sailed in the steward department. In 2001, he attended classes at the Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md. Brother Bandoh’s most recent ship was the Lt. Col. Calvin P. Titus. He settled in Houston. REYNALDO DIMACALE Brother Reynaldo Dimacale, 64, joined the union in 1980. He initially shipped on the Bay Ridge. Brother Dimacale sailed in the deck department and upgraded on numerous occasions at the Piney Point school. He is a native of Manila, Philippines. Brother Dimacale most recently sailed aboard the Oakland. Ha calls San Leandro, Calif., home. NANCY HEYDEN Sister Nancy Heyden, 59, signed on with the Seafarers in 1982. Her first trip was aboard the Independence; her last was on the Overseas Luxmar. Sister Heyden frequently upgraded at the maritime training center in Piney Point, Md. The former steward department member lives in Houston. MILTON ISRAEL Brother Milton Israel, 63, became a union member in 1968. He first worked on the Monticello as an engine department member. Brother Israel took advantage of educational opportunities at the Piney Point school. His most recent vessel was the Eagle. Brother Israel makes his home in Jacksonville, Fla. MICHAEL LANDESS Brother Michael Landess, 64, joined the SIU ranks in 2000. His earliest trip was aboard an OLS Transport Limited vessel. Brother Landess was born in Pittsfield, Ill. He sailed in both the steward and deck departments. Brother Landess enhanced his skills in 2008 at the Piney Point school. He most recently sailed on the ATB Brownsville. He settled in Jacksonville, Ill. JACK MADDEN Brother Jack Madden, 55, donned April 2013 15044_APRIL2013LOG.indd 17 the SIU colors in 1990. His first voyage was aboard the Overseas New Orleans; his most recent was on the North Star. Brother Madden was a member of the deck department. He was born in Seattle and makes his home in Olympia, Wash. FREDERICK MEIER Brother Frederick Meier, 65, began his seafaring career in 1990. He initially shipped aboard the USNS Vindicator. Brother Meier was born in New York and sailed in the deck department. In 1995, he attended classes at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Meier most recently sailed on the USNS Pathfinder. He calls Panama City, Fla., home. GUADALUPE PASTOR Brother Guadalupe Pastor, 66, signed on with the SIU in 2000 while in the port of New York. As a member of steward department, Brother Pastor upgraded in 2001 at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. He originally worked on the Grand Canyon State. Brother Pastor’s last trip was aboard the 2nd Lt. John Paul Bobo. He is a resident of Bronx, N.Y. MANUEL PENA Brother Manuel Pena, 65, was born in Spain. He joined the SIU in 2001 as the NMU merged into the Seafarers International Union. His most recent trip was aboard the Freedom. Brother Pena, a member of the deck department, enhanced his skills on three occasions at the SIU-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. He lives in Houston. EROWIN UDAN Brother Erowin Udan, 51, became a union member in 1985 while in the port of Honolulu. He first worked on the Constitution as a deck department member. Brother Udan took advantage of educational opportunities at the Piney Point school. His final vessel was the Green Cove. Brother Udan makes his home in Waipahu, Hawaii. INLAND GEORGE COX Brother George Cox, 55, donned the SIU colors in 1979 in Wilmington, Calif. He worked with Crowley Towing & Transportation of Wilmington for the duration of his career. Brother Cox worked in both the engine and deck departments. He attended classes often at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Cox resides in Cathedral City, Calif. JAMES GATES Brother James Gates, 64, started shipping with the union in 1971 while in Baltimore. He first sailed on the Gulf Atlantic. Brother Gates last sailed with Moran Towing of Maryland. He is a resident of Grass Valley, Calif. Jacksonville. The deck department member lives in Jacksonville, Fla. PEDRO REYES Brother Pedro Reyes, 63, became a union member in 1977. He originally worked aboard the San Juan. Brother Reyes is a native of Puerto Rico. He sailed in the deck department. Brother Reyes’ most recent trip was with Crowley Puerto Rico Services. He settled in San Juan. CHARLES RICHARD Brother Charles Richard, 49, signed on with the union in 1982. He primarily sailed in the engine department of vessels operated by Crescent Towing of New Orleans. Brother Richard makes his home in Terrytown, La. HENRY TULEWICZ OTTO HEBERT Brother Otto Hebert, 62, began sailing with the SIU in 1974. He initially sailed with Inland Tugs. Brother Herbert worked in the deck department. He was last employed on the Boomtown. Brother Hebert calls Terrytown, La., home. the Piney Point school. The deck department member’s most recent trip was aboard the American Mariner. Brother Brzezinski settled in Rogers City, Mich. THOMAS SKOWRONEK Brother Thomas Skowronek, 65, was born in Michigan. He began sailing with the SIU in 1968. Brother Skowronek first worked with Huron Portland Cement. The deck department member’s most recent ship was the St. Clair. Brother Skowronek lives in Alpena, Mich. NATIONAL MARITIME UNION PAUL CASSON Brother Henry Tulewicz, 62, donned the SIU colors in 1966 while in the port of Philadelphia. He first sailed with Meyle Towing Company. Brother Tulewicz was born in Pennsylvania. He was most recently employed with Taylor Marine Towing Company. Brother Tulewicz is a resident of Clementon, N.J. Brother Paul Casson, 55, joined the NMU in 1978. He is a native of Colorado. Brother Casson last worked aboard the Cape Horn. He now calls Bremerton, Wash., home. GREAT LAKES JOHN O’NEAL Brother John O’Neal, 60, joined the SIU ranks in 1990 while in the port of Jacksonville. His earliest trip to sea was on the USNS Wilkes. Brother O’Neal upgraded in 2000 at the Paul Hall Center. His most recent trip was with Crowley Towing & Transportation of ALBERT BRZEZINSKI Brother Albert Brzezinski, 61, started his SIU career in 1977. The Pennsylvania native initially shipped on the Saginaw Bay. In 2007, Brother Brzezinski attended classes at FRANCIS ETTNER Brother Francis Ettner, 65, became an NMU member in 1967. His final trip was on the Sohio Intrepid. Brother Ettner was born in Illinois and now makes his home in Midland, Texas. This Month In SIU History Editor’s note: The following items are reprinted from previous editions of the Seafarers LOG. 1945 One of the most important agents’ conferences held in the entire history of the SIU, a conference out of which came many vital policy and organization decisions, closed in Chicago after laying a course for the union in the post-war period. Out of the conference came a unity and spirit of cooperation between the various districts which hold the promise of great gains for the union during the difficult days which lie ahead. Among the important decisions reached by the conference was to establish equal shipping rights for all SIU-SUP members on all coasts; to reduce the transfer fees from district to district; to demand revision of the so-called “Seamen’s Bill of Rights;” and to establish more efficient inter-district machinery to handle strikes and lockouts. 1963 The SIU-manned Floridian became the first U.S. merchant ship fired on by Cuban jets when she was attacked about 50 miles north of Cuba. The 2,200-ton Floridian was strafed by two Russianbuilt MIG aircraft while returning from Puerto Rico on her weekly run. Circling the ship for 20 minutes, the jets alternately buzzed and fired machine gun bursts across the ship’s bow and stern. None of the shots hit the ship, and no one was injured. The attack came in the same water between Cuba and Florida where, on Feb. 20, Cuban-based MIGS fired rockets at the American shrimp boat Ala. 1965 The SIU told a subcommittee of the Joint Economic Committee recently that the costs to the government of shipping government-generated cargoes could be substantially reduced by building new American-flag bulk carriers which would be able to carry these at lower rates and still operate profitably. The Subcommittee on Federal Procurement and Regulation, headed by Senator Paul H. Douglas of Illinois, has been holding hearings on ocean freight rates in an attempt to determine if the government is paying excessively high rates for government-generated cargoes and if these rates have an inflationary impact on commercial rates. The SIU’s statement was submitted for inclusion in the subcommittee’s record. 1968 As a result of vigorous protests by the SIU and management officials of the unsubsidized sector of the United States merchant marine, the Maritime Administration has set slightly higher – but still inadequate – guideline rate ceilings for U.S.-flag vessels carrying full loads of government-sponsored cargoes effective Jan. 1. The main objection of the SIU and the industry to MARAD’s method of establishing ceilings for the so-called 50-50 cargo rates has been that they discriminate against the more efficient intermediate-sized vessels – those between 15-500 tons and 39,999 tons – and cater to higher-cost smaller ships. Seafarers LOG 17 3/26/2013 8:43:01 PM �Final Departures DEEP SEA MACK CARRUTHERS Pensioner Mack Carruthers, 89, died September 20. Brother Carruthers started sailing with the Marine Cooks & Stewards in 1978. He initially worked aboard the President Madison. Brother Carruthers was born in Memphis, Tenn. The steward department member last shipped on the Philadelphia. Brother Carruthers retired in 1988 and settled in Seattle. ROBERT GORBEA Pensioner Robert Gorbea, 82, passed away August 27. Born in Brooklyn, N.Y., Brother Gorbea joined the union in 1951. He first sailed aboard the Seatrain Texas. Brother Gorbea was a deck department member. Prior to his retirement in 1995, he shipped on the Elizabeth. Brother Gorbea continued to call New York home. STANLEY JANDORA Pensioner Stanley Jandora, 95, died September 27. Brother Jandora became an SIU member in 1944. He sailed aboard the Steel Apprentice early in his career. Brother Jandora was born in New Jersey and worked in the deck department. His final trip was on the Wilson in 2004. Brother Jandora made his home in Tinton Falls, N.J. CURTIS LANG Pensioner Curtis Lang, 80, passed away September 14. Brother Lang began shipping with the Seafarers in 1967. He originally sailed aboard a vessel operated by Mt. Vernon Tankers Corporation. Brother Lang was a member of the engine department. He last worked on the Quality. Brother Lang continued to reside in his native state, Florida. JOSEPH STANTON Pensioner Joseph Stanton, 80, died September 20. Brother Stanton first donned the SIU colors in 1951. The deck department member was born in Philadelphia. Brother Stanton’s first trip was aboard the Ft. Hoskins. His final ship was the USNS Wright. Brother Stanton became a pensioner in 1991. He was a 18 Seafarers LOG 15044_APRIL2013LOG.indd 18 resident of Pennsylvania. INLAND EUGENE BRADSHAW Pensioner Eugene Bradshaw, 75, passed away August 26. Brother Bradshaw signed on with the SIU in 1979. His earliest trip was with Stc. Holly S Company. Brother Bradshaw was born in Virginia. Before his retirement in 1999, he worked for Piney Point Transportation. Brother Bradshaw lived in Onley, Va. HARRY WROTEN Pensioner Harry Wroten, 100, died September 24. Brother Wroten was a Virginia native. He joined the union in 1962 and sailed with McAllister Towing of Virginia for the duration of his career. Brother Wroten started collecting his pension in 1985. He called Smithfield, Va., home. GREAT LAKES JACK POVASER Pensioner Jack Povaser, 75, passed away September 14. Brother Povaser started shipping with the union in 1987. He primarily worked in the Great Lakes division, initially with Great Lakes Associates. Brother Povaser was born in Ashland, Wis. He sailed in both the engine and steward departments. Brother Povaser most recently sailed on the Walter J. McCarthy. He retired in 2009 and made his home in Superior, Wis. Editor’s note: The following brothers and sisters, all former members of the National Maritime Union (NMU), have passed away. VICTOR ALCOCER Pensioner Victor Alcocer, 87, died September 29. Brother Alcocer was born in Houston. He went on pension in 1987. Brother Alcocer made his home in Spring, Texas. GUILLERMO BASTIAN Pensioner Guillermo Bastian, 86, passed away August 18. Brother Bastian, a native of Puerto Rico, started collecting his retirement compensation in 1973. He continued to live in Puerto Rico. ANTONIO BERNAL Pensioner Antonio Bernal, 89, died September 7. Born in Spain, Brother Bernal became a pensioner in 1986. He called Miami home. tive of Washington State. Brother Byrd lived in Richmond, Va. SHIRLEY BYRD Pensioner Shirley Byrd, 83, passed away August 23. Sister Byrd, a native of Detroit, went on pension in 1997. She made her home in Gretna, La. FRANCIS CARL Pensioner Francis Carl, 90, died November 18. Born in Washington, D.C., Brother Carl started receiving his retirement compensation in 1966. He lived in Temple Hills, Md. WILLIAM FERRELL Pensioner William Ferrell, 81, passed away September 13. Brother Ferrell was born in South Carolina. He retired in 1986 and settled in Charleston, S.C. ARMANDO GOMES Pensioner Armando Gomes, 90, died September 16. Brother Gomes was a Trinidad native. He became a pensioner in 1971 and called Brooklyn, N.Y., home. PAULA GONZALEZ Pensioner Paula Gonzalez, 103, passed away August 19. Brother Gonzalez, a native of Puerto Rico, began collecting his pension in 1972. He resided in Riverdale, Ga. JOSEPH GREEN Pensioner Joseph Green, 90, died September 18. Born in Honduras, Brother Green went on pension in 1969. He lived in Port Charlotte, Fla. CARROL GUNDERSON Pensioner Carrol Gunderson, 86, passed away September 25. Brother Gunderson was born in Seattle. He retired in 1996 and was a resident of Buckley, Wash. ALBERT HOLZENDORF Pensioner Albert Holzendorf, 82, died September 1. Brother Holzendorf was a Florida native. He started receiving his retirement pay in 1995. Brother Holzendorf made his home in Oceanside, Calif. ARNOLD BROWN Pensioner Arnold Brown, 98, passed away August 7. Brother Brown was born in Honduras. He retired in 1984 and resided in New Orleans. JOSE JIMENEZ Pensioner Jose Jimenez, 93, passed away September 11. Brother Jimenez, a native of Arecibo, P.R., became a pensioner in 1985. He continued to reside in Puerto Rico. LESLIE BYRD Brother Leslie Byrd, 84, died September 7. Brother Byrd was a na- EDWIN JOYNER Pensioner Edwin Joyner, 93, died September 26. The Florida-born mariner went on pension in 1965. Brother Joyner called Jacksonville, Fla., home. CHARLES KAYSER Pensioner Charles Kayser, 84, passed away September 19. Brother Kayser was born in Illinois. He began collecting compensation for his retirement in 1968. Brother Kayser made his home in Mobile, Ala. WAVERLY LONG Pensioner Waverly Long, 90, died December 16. Born in Danville, Va., Brother Long began sailing with the union in 1946. He started receiving his pension in 1987. Brother Long lived in Norfolk, Va. ROBERT MATTHEWS Pensioner Robert Matthews, 80, passed away August 27. Brother Matthews was a native of Victor, N.Y. He retired in 1997 and resided in New Jersey. BESSIE MCBRIDE Pensioner Bessie McBride, 93, died July 28. Sister McBride was born in West Virginia. She became a pensioner in 1970. Sister McBride called Naples, Fla., home. SAYED MOHAMED Pensioner Sayed Mohamed, 92, passed away September 2. Brother Mohamed, a native of Sudan, went on pension in 1967. He settled in Springfield, Va. CLAUDE NORTON Pensioner Claude Norton, 85, died September 3. Brother Norton began receiving his retirement pay in 1971. Brother Norton was a resident of Salem, Mo. JESUS OCASIO Pensioner Jesus Ocasio, 85, passed away September 6. Brother Ocasio was born in San Juan, P.R. He retired in 1972 and continued to make his home in Puerto Rico. CHARLES PACHECO Pensioner Charles Pacheco, 83, died September 29. He was born in New Bedford, Mass. Brother Pacheco went on pension in 1992. He was a resident of Oreland, Pa. CHARLES RAY Pensioner Charles Ray, 71, passed away August 18. Brother Ray was born in Rolla, Mo. He became a pensioner in 1994 and called Summerville, S.C., home. sion in 1973. Brother Rosenstein resided in Corpus Christi, Texas. GUILLERMO SALGADO Pensioner Guillermo Salgado, 89, passed away September 3. He was born in Honduras. Brother Salgado began receiving his retirement pay in 1988. He lived in New Orleans. PACO SANCHEZ Pensioner Paco Sanchez, 84, died August 15. Brother Sanchez, a native of Puerto Rico, retired in 1985. He settled in East Longmeadow, Mass. CHESTER SLIWA Pensioner Chester Sliwa, 91, passed away September 9. Brother Sliwa was born in Chicago. He went on pension in 1986 and made his home in Brooklyn, N.Y. LLOYD SUMPTER Pensioner Lloyd Sumpter, 92, died September 19. Brother Sumpter was a Florida native. He became a pensioner in 1991. Brother Sumpter called Los Angeles home. KENNETH THOMPSON Pensioner Kenneth Thomson, 85, passed away September 25. Born in Horton, Kan., Brother Thompson started collecting his retirement pay in 1965. He was a resident of Sulphur, La. RAYMAN WHITE Pensioner Rayman White, 82, died August 7. Brother White was born in Portland, Ore. He retired in 1990 and settled in Seattle. MARCOS ZEPEDA Pensioner Marcos Zepeda, 89, passed away September 20. Brother Zepeda, a Houston native, went on pension in 1967. He lived in Harwood, Texas. Name Age Benjamin, Robert 73 Dejesus, Jose 64 Forre, Knut 81 Frazier, Eldridge 90 Gonzalez, Andres 93 Gonzalez, Manuel 86 Jackson, Robert 93 Jaronczyk, Henry 87 Mccaskill, Charles 84 McLaughlin, Wilbur 88 Monsanto, Hans 88 Moore, Howard 90 Murray, Louis 78 Paglinawan, Albert 91 Paz, Anibal 87 Richard, William 80 Rivera, Juan 87 Rodriguez, Roberto 76 Rosado, Ruperto 89 Sargent, James 84 Shields, William 69 Torres, Brunaldo 92 Williams, Ernest 82 DOD Oct. 14 Sept. 9 Sept. 7 July 25 Nov. 22 Aug. 3 Aug. 7 Sept. 30 Oct. 7 July 1 Sept. 3 Sept. 26 Sept. 27 Nov. 18 Aug. 13 Oct. 11 Sept. 17 Oct. 13 July 30 Nov. 17 Sept. 25 Oct. 13 Oct. 28 PHILIP ROSENSTEIN Pensioner Philip Rosenstein, 87, died August 22. Brother Rosenstein was a native of Manhattan, N.Y. He started collecting his pen- April 2013 3/26/2013 7:27:20 PM �Digest of Shipboard Union Meetings CHARGER (Maersk Line, Limited), January 25 – Chairman Robert Pagan, Secretary William Bragg, Educational Director Olie Webber. Chairman announced upcoming payoff in Los Angeles. Crew was reminded to turn in room keys when signing off. He mentioned the terminal now requires all personnel transiting the yard to wear hard hat and safety vest. SIU official will be on board upon ship’s arrival. He gave a vote of thanks to the steward department. Educational director urged everyone to upgrade and ensure documents are up-to-date, including TWIC. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew reported mattresses need to be replaced. Next port: Long Beach, Calif. With Seafarers Aboard USNS Bob Hope COMET (Maersk Line, Limited), January 6 – Chairman Khaled Munassar, Secretary Cleto Lindong, Educational Director Rene Rosario, Engine Delegate Lonnie Carter, Steward Delegate Reynaldo Ricarte. Chairman thanked deck gang and DEU for working hard, and thanked entire crew for working safely. Educational director encouraged fellow members to donate to SPAD, the union’s voluntary political action fund, and stay current on dues. No beefs or disputed OT reported. New washing machine will be taken aboard in Long Beach, Calif. Crew thanked steward department for “demonstrating an extraordinary ability to make the most beautiful Christmas and New Year’s celebrations” and for overall excellent food and a job well done. Next port: Long Beach. He reviewed company’s safety incentive program and ship’s fund. Vessel may be in Houston for a while undergoing repair. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Next port: Newark, N.J. EAGLE (Maersk Line, Limited), January 12 – Chairman Scott Heginbotham, Secretary John McGill, Educational Director Samir Elbaguer, Engine Delegate Brandon Granger, Steward Delegate Alonzo Belcher. Chairman saluted galley gang for job well done over the holidays. EL MORRO (Interocean American Shipping), January 24 – Chairman Nathaniel Leary, Secretary Rafael Cardenas, Educational Director Joseph Letang, Deck Delegate David Denizac, Engine Delegate James Emidy, Steward Delegate Tracey Newsome. Chairman encouraged SIU Wilmington, Calif., Safety Director Abdul Al Omari snapped this photo aboard the military support ship USNS Bob Hope earlier this year. Pictured from left to right are (front) Chief Cook Ahmed Qoraish, Bosun William Henderson, AB Joshua German, (back) Wiper Robert Brady, OS James Washington and Recertified Steward Robert Mosley. The vessel is operated by American Overseas Marine. Apprentice Earns Safety Award Congratulations to Unlicensed Apprentice Jacob Gaskill (above) for recently earning Horizon Lines’ Safety Sailor of the Month award, for his work aboard the Horizon Enterprise. Vessel Master Ron Radicali kindly passed along the photo and following notation indicating that Jacob, “Having been found to be an outstanding shipmate – conscientious in his duties, safety conscious and considerate of all is hereby being recognized for such noble effort amongst his peers, performed in a safe manner and entitling him for recognition as Safety Sailor of the Month.” April 2013 15044_APRIL2013LOG.indd 19 The Seafarers LOG attempts to print as many digests of union shipboard minutes as possible. On occasion, because of space limitations, some will be omitted. Ships’ minutes first are reviewed by the union’s contract department. Those issues requiring attention or resolution are addressed by the union upon receipt of the ships’ minutes. The minutes are then forwarded to the Seafarers LOG for publication. fellow Seafarers to upgrade at union-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. He also reminded everyone to keep documents current. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew discussed time off and payroll items. LIBERTY GLORY (Liberty Maritime), January 6 – Chairman Tyronne Burrell, Secretary Abraham Martinez, Engine Delegate Donald Bernard, Steward Delegate Dawn Johnson. Chairman announced upcoming payoff in Orange, Texas, and also encouraged crew members to know the contract. Educational director reminded everyone to keep documents current. No beefs or disputed OT reported, but deck and engine crews needed clarification on penalty OT. Crew also discussed shipboard safety and requested a new dryer and direct deposit. MAERSK CAROLINA (Maersk Line, Limited), January 27 – Chairman Brian Fountain, Secretary Ali Matari, Educational Director Kevin Cooper, Deck Delegate David Freeman, Steward Delegate Medardo Thomas. Crew awaiting response on question about imminent danger pay. Chairman reported another safe trip with no lost-time injuries. This makes 3,118 days. He thanked everyone for their professionalism and especially the steward department for their good work. Secretary encouraged members to read Seafarers LOG to stay updated. He also urged Seafarers to donate to SPAD “because when you do, you help yourself as well as your union brothers.” Educational director advised mariners to upgrade at union-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Steward delegate thanked other departments for helping keep the house clean. Crew made a number of detailed suggestions for next contract. MAERSK MISSOURI (Maersk Line, Limited), January 6 – Chairman Brian Corbett, Secretary Glenn Bamman, Educational Director Jerome Culbreth, Deck Delegate Dudley James, Engine Delegate Albert Riollano, Steward Delegate Brian McEleney. Chairman reported good voyage and thanked crew for their work. He said to check with union concerning updated physical exam rules. Secretary said it was a good voyage with a good crew, and reminded everyone to leave cabins clean for reliefs. Educational director encouraged mariners to upgrade and keep documents current. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew extended vote of thanks to steward department. They asked for clarifications on shipping rules pertaining to rotary shipping. Next ports: Elizabeth, N.J., Charleston, S.C., and Norfolk, Va. MAERSK MONTANA (Maersk Line, Limited), January 13 – Chairman Robert Lindsay, Secretary Michael Carello, Educational Director Eddie Almodovar, Engine Delegate Robert Orloff, Steward Delegate Edward English. Chairman reported safe voyage and upcoming payoff. He reminded members to stay current on dues. Educational director encouraged fellow mariners to upgrade. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew noted that Seafarers LOG is available in print and on the union’s website. Crew thanked steward department for job well done. They asked for information about how STCW amendments may affect day work. MAERSK WYOMING (Maersk Line, Limited), January 20 – Chairman Roan Lightfoot, Secretary Kenneth Hagan, Educational Director Joe Grandinetti, Deck Delegate Mohamed Mazid, Steward Delegate Stanford Drakes. Chairman thanked crew for keeping ship clean and managing garbage. He mentioned company policy of no garbage except food scraps to be thrown over the side. He urged Seafarers to contribute to SPAD. Secretary said they are still waiting on details about crew’s move to a replacement vessel. Educational director encouraged members to upgrade at Paul Hall Center and to use the SIU website. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Vote of thanks given to steward department for excellent holiday meals. Crew made general and specific recommendations for improving medical, dental and pension benefits, including eligibility requirements. They also expressed appreciation for the recently secured standard contracts, which included wage increases and other gains despite the current hostile climate toward organized labor. Next port: Elizabeth, N.J. OVERSEAS ANACORTES (OSG), January 6 – Chairman Tony Beasley, Secretary Khaled Taffi, Educational Director Melvin Ratcliff, Deck Delegate Feliciano Gimutao. Chairman thanked steward department for job well done during the holidays. He also thanked deck and engine gangs for doing good jobs and working safely. He thanked all those who donate to SPAD. Secretary also thanked members for SPAD donations and noted union forms are available. Educational director encouraged Seafarers to apply for the SHBP scholarship, keep documents current, and upgrade at Piney Point. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Parts were received for washing machines. Seafarers LOG 19 3/26/2013 8:43:03 PM �Oiler Burns Mothershed and ABs Junior Rankin and Neil Nelson Sheila McDevitt Chief Mate Justin Lewis Mako Snapshots from Ft. Lauderdale Bosun Richard Hamilton and Port Agent Kris Hopkins Sheila McDevitt Jacksonville Safety Director Ashley Nelson and AB Alvin Clark Sheila McDevitt Ft. Lauderdale Port Agent Kris Hopkins submitted these photos from the M/V Sheila McDevitt, the tug Mako and ATBs Courage and Innovation. AB Jarrod Nix, Engineer Rino Skoblar, Cook Joe Jones and DDE Travis Hudgins Innovation Engineer Jeff Altzner Mako Capt. Jon Richardson and Chief Cook Carlicia Jones Courage Steward Donna Peterson Sheila McDevitt AB Tankerman Dwayne Love Mako Know Your Rights FINANCIAL REPORTS. The Constitution of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters makes specific provision for safeguarding the membership’s money and union finances. The constitution requires a detailed audit by certified public accountants every year, which is to be submitted to the membership by the secretary-treasurer. A yearly finance committee of rank-and-file members, elected by the membership, each year examines the finances of the union and reports fully their findings and recommendations. Members of this committee may make dissenting reports, specific recommendations and separate findings. TRUST FUNDS. All trust funds of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters are administered in accordance with the provisions of various trust fund agreements. All these agreements specify that the trustees in charge of these funds shall equally consist of union and management representatives and their alternates. All expenditures and disbursements of trust funds are made only upon approval by a majority of the trustees. All trust fund financial records are available at the headquarters of the various trust funds. SHIPPING RIGHTS. A member’s shipping rights and seniority are protected exclusively by contracts between the union and the employers. Members should get to know their shipping rights. Copies of these contracts are posted and available in all union halls. If members believe there have been violations of their shipping or seniority rights as contained in the contracts between the union and the employers, they should notify the Seafarers Appeals Board by certified mail, return receipt 20 Seafarers LOG 15044_APRIL2013LOG.indd 20 requested. The proper address for this is: Augustin Tellez, Chairman Seafarers Appeals Board 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 Full copies of contracts as referred to are available to members at all times, either by writing directly to the union or to the Seafarers Appeals Board. CONTRACTS. Copies of all SIU contracts are available in all SIU halls. These contracts specify the wages and conditions under which an SIU member works and lives aboard a ship or boat. Members should know their contract rights, as well as their obligations, such as filing for overtime (OT) on the proper sheets and in the proper manner. If, at any time, a member believes that an SIU patrolman or other union official fails to protect their contractual rights properly, he or she should contact the nearest SIU port agent. EDITORIAL POLICY — THE SEAFARERS LOG. The Seafarers LOG traditionally has refrained from publishing any article serving the political purposes of any individual in the union, officer or member. It also has refrained from publishing articles deemed harmful to the union or its collective membership. This established policy has been reaffirmed by membership action at the September 1960 meetings in all constitutional ports. The responsibility for Seafarers LOG policy is vested in an editorial board which consists of the executive board of the union. The executive board may delegate, from among its ranks, one individual to carry out this responsibility. PAYMENT OF MONIES. No monies are to be paid to anyone in any official capacity in the SIU unless an official union receipt is given for same. Under no circumstances should any member pay any money for any reason unless he is given such receipt. In the event anyone attempts to require any such payment be made without supplying a receipt, or if a member is required to make a payment and is given an official receipt, but feels that he or she should not have been required to make such payment, this should immediately be reported to union headquarters. CONSTITUTIONAL RIGHTS AND OBLIGATIONS. Copies of the SIU Constitution are available in all union halls. All members should obtain copies of this constitution so as to familiarize themselves with its contents. Any time a member feels any other member or officer is attempting to deprive him or her of any constitutional right or obligation by any methods, such as dealing with charges, trials, etc., as well as all other details, the member so affected should immediately notify headquarters. EQUAL RIGHTS. All members are guaranteed equal rights in employment and as members of the SIU. These rights are clearly set forth in the SIU Constitution and in the contracts which the union has negotiated with the employers. Consequently, no member may be discriminated against because of race, creed, color, sex, national or geographic origin. If any member feels that he or she is denied the equal rights to which he or she is entitled, the member should notify union headquarters. SEAFARERS POLITICAL ACTIVITY DONATION (SPAD). SPAD is a separate segregated fund. Its proceeds are used to further its objects and purposes including, but not limited to, furthering the political, social and economic interests of maritime workers, the preservation and furthering of the American merchant marine with improved employment opportunities for seamen and boatmen and the advancement of trade union concepts. In connection with such objects, SPAD supports and contributes to political candidates for elective office. All contributions are voluntary. No contribution may be solicited or received because of force, job discrimination, financial reprisal, or threat of such conduct, or as a condition of membership in the union or of employment. If a contribution is made by reason of the above improper conduct, the member should notify the Seafarers International Union or SPAD by certified mail within 30 days of the contribution for investigation and appropriate action and refund, if involuntary. A member should support SPAD to protect and further his or her economic, political and social interests, and American trade union concepts. NOTIFYING THE UNION — If at any time a member feels that any of the above rights have been violated, or that he or she has been denied the constitutional right of access to union records or information, the member should immediately notify SIU President Michael Sacco at headquarters by certified mail, return receipt requested. The address is: Michael Sacco, President Seafarers International Union 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746. April 2013 3/26/2013 7:27:26 PM �Paul Hall Center Upgrading Course Information The following is a schedule of courses at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md., for the next few months. All programs are geared toward improving the job skills of Seafarers and promoting the American maritime industry. Please note that this schedule may change to reflect the needs of the membership, the maritime industry and—in times of conflict—the national security. Students attending any of these classes should check in the Saturday before their course’s start date. The courses listed here will begin promptly on the morning of the start dates. For classes ending on a Friday, departure reservations should be made for Saturday. Seafarers who have any questions regarding the upgrading courses offered at the Paul Hall Center may call the admissions office at (301) 994-0010. Title of Course Start Date Date of Completion Title of Course Start Date Date of Completion Basic Firefighting/STCW April 13 May 11 June 15 April 19 May 17 June 21 Government Vessels April 15 May 6 June 3 April 19 May 10 June 7 Tank Pic Barge May 4 May 10 Deck Department Steward Department Upgrading Courses Lifeboatman/Water Survival April 27 May 25 June 22 May 10 June 7 July 5 STOS April 27 May 10 Able Seaman May 11 June 7 Radar Renewal (One day) May 28 May 28 Radar Observer May 4 May 17 ARPA May 18 May 24 Bosun Recertification July 13 August 5 Fast Rescue Boat April 27 June 15 May 3 June 21 Engine Department Chief Steward April 13 July 6 May 24 August 16 Serve Safe June 8 June 14 Galley Operations These modules start every Monday. Chief Cook These modules start every other week. The next class will begin April 12. Advanced Galley Operations These modules start every Monday. NOTICE National Maritime Center Website Provides Valuable Mariner Resources The National Maritime Center (NMC), the licensing authority for the U.S. Coast Guard, offers a comprehensive website covering mariner credentialing, medical guidelines and much more. The site features a wide range of applications and forms, deck- and engine-department exam information, lists of Coast Guard-approved courses and more. Seafarers are encour- aged to check out the site at: http://www. uscg.mil/nmc/ Mariners may call the NMC at 1-888-IASKNMC (1-888-427-5662). Operational hours are 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. EST, Monday through Friday. (The NMC is closed for all federal holidays.) Various email forms also are available through the NMC website. Designated Duty Engineer Prep May 4 June 15 July 6 July 27 May 17 June 28 July 19 August 9 Basic Auxiliary Plant Operations (BAPO) May 18 June 14 FOWT April 20 June 15 May 17 July 12 Notice to Students Junior Engineer May 4 June 28 Marine Refer Tech May 4 June 14 Welding May 4 June 1 May 24 June 21 Students who have registered for classes at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, but later discover - for whatever reason - that they can’t attend, should inform the admissions department immediately so arrangements can be made to have other students take their places. Safety Upgrading Courses Basic Firefighting/STCW March 23 March 29 UPGRADING APPLICATION Name ________________________________________________________________________ Address ______________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________ Telephone (Home)_________________________ (Cell)_________________________ Date of Birth __________________________________________________________________ Deep Sea Member o Lakes Member o Inland Waters Member o If the following information is not filled out completely, your application will not be processed. Social Security #_______________________ Book # _________________________________ Seniority_____________________________ Department_____________________________ Home Port____________________________________________________________________ E-mail_______________________________________________________________________ Endorsement(s) or License(s) now held_____________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________ Are you a graduate of the SHLSS/PHC trainee program? o Yes o No If yes, class # __________________________________________________________________ Have you attended any SHLSS/PHC upgrading courses? o Yes o No If yes, course(s) taken____________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________ With this application, COPIES of the following must be sent: One hundred and twenty-five (125) days seatime for the previous year, one day in the last six months prior to the date your class starts, USMMD (z-card) front and back or relevant pages of merchant mariner credential, front page of your union book indicating your department and seniority, qualifying seatime for the course if it is Coast Guard tested, 1995 STCW Certificate, valid SHBP Clinic Card and TWIC. April 2013 15044_APRIL2013LOG.indd 21 COURSE ____________________________ START DATE _______________ DATE OF COMPLETION _______________________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________________ LAST VESSEL: ___________________________________ Rating: ____________________ Date On: _______________________________ Date Off:____________________________ SIGNATURE ____________________________________ DATE______________________ NOTE: Transportation will be paid in accordance with the scheduling letter only if you present original receipts and successfully complete the course. If you have any questions, contact your port agent before departing for Piney Point. Not all classes are reimbursable.Return completed application to: Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education Admissions Office, P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674-0075; or fax to (301) 994-2189. The Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education is a private, non-profit, equal opportunity institution and admits students, who are otherwise qualified, of any race, nationality or sex. The school complies with applicable laws with regard to admission, access or treatment of students in its programs or activities. 4 /13 Seafarers LOG 21 3/26/2013 7:27:27 PM �Paul Hall Center Classes Unlicensed Apprentice Water Survival Class 769 – Eighteen individuals, Phase I unlicensed apprentices as well as upgraders, completed this 60-hour course Feb. 15. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Steven Baker, Daniel Briggs, DeAnthony Cole, Bobby Conner, Gary Dalbec, Colton Edmiston, Jason Fuller, Andrew Graham, Romeo Isorena Jr., Ricardas Juska, Samuel McClure, Matthew Meehan, Kevin Parrilla-Alicea, Joseph Pelerin, Peter Plathan, Eddie Solichin, Curtis Walker and Jeffrey Watts. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Welding – Ten upgraders finished this four-week course March 1. Those graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Chris Bongard, Scott Ciatto, James Dillon, Michael Durago, John Ingold, Matthew Keese, Brittenne Kelly, Terrance Meadows, Darnell O’Hara and Anthony Riddick. Class Instructor Buzzy Andrews is at the far left in the back row. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Basic Auxiliary Plant Operations (BAPO) – Fourteen Phase III unlicensed apprentices and upgraders completed their requirements in this 63-hour course Feb. 22. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Jose Alicea-Sanchez, Sean Geddie, David Gentsch, Julio Gomez, Arvin Heras, Jason Knapp, Zeljko Krizan, Thomas Leroy, Ali Malahi, Michael Pirch, Alisia Scheurer, Brett Scott, Joseph Spencer and Yolanda St. Clair. Tim Achorn, their instructor, is at the far left. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Electronic Chart Display Information System – The following upgraders (above, in alphabetical order) graduated from this course March 1: Dennis Blackman, Dustin Carter, Michael Harris Jr., Matthew Jenness, Enchantress Johnson, Oleg Pankratov, James Tank and Kwamena Watson. Brad Wheeler, their instructor, is at the far left. BAPO – Three upgraders graduated from this course Feb. 22. Completing their requirements (above, in alphabetical order) were: Julio Gomez, Zeljko Krizan and Thomas Leroy. Class Instructor Tim Achorn, is at the far left. Designated Duty Engineer – Twelve individuals graduated from this course Feb. 8. Completing their requirements (above, in alphabetical order) were: Michael Bosarge, Marty Bush, Larry Conway, John Creel, James Hilliard, Jerry Jones, Tony Menotti, Jerry Mock, John Noel, Roger O’Bier, Rusty Orgeron and Paul Parker. Class Instructor Scott Ciatto is at the far left. BST – Two classes of upgraders completed their requirements in this course March 1. Those graduating (right, in alphabetical order) were: Marie Acosta, Saad Al-Aqel, Martin Arcenio Jr., Deborah Artis, Larry Bradley, Robert Brown, Richard Deane, Daniel Denaeu, Andrew Devine, Saleh Elhubishi, David Gentsch, Julio Gomez, Richard Gould, Marlon Green, Raymond Henderson, Kayle Hower, Vincent Igneri, David Joaquin, Daniel Luglio, Rashaad Mangram, Robert Maschmeier, Fermin Morin Jr., Holly Norick, Robert Owens, Emma Porter, Walter Ritvalsky, Michael Sivells, Jeff Van Slambrouck, Edward Villanda, David Wakeman, Keith White and Prescilo Zuniga. Class Instructors Wayne Johnson Jr., and Wayne Johnson Sr., are at the far left and far right respectively. 22 Seafarers LOG 15044_APRIL2013LOG.indd 22 April 2013 3/26/2013 7:27:34 PM �Paul Hall Center Classes Able Seaman – The following individuals (left, in alphabetical order) completed this course March 1: Ali Ali, Ahmed Ali, Brian Beasley, Valerio Bellezze, Tania Carson, John Cragin, Richard Flores, Priscilla Greene, Christopher Hughes, Peter Mertz, Nathan Nicholson, Leo Onofrio, Angela Puchalsky, Ervin Sadler, William Sculley, Derrick Siefke and Burton Uys. Class Instructor Tom Truitt is second from the right in the back row. Important Notice to Students Students who have registered for classes at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, but later discover - for whatever reason - that they can’t attend, should inform the admissions department immediately so arrangements can be made to have other students take their places. Machinist – Seven upgraders finished their requirements in this course Feb. 8. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Christopher Bongard, Michael Durago, Gregory Holsey Jr., Fernando Ortega, Francisco Ramilo, Jesse Tornabene and Jimmie Williams Jr. Class Instructor Steve Haver is at the far right. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Government Vessels – Six Seafarers graduated from this course March 15. Completing their requirements (above, in alphabetical order) were: Volodymyr Bendus, Brandon Braam, Antionne Kelly, Wilson Peniston, Jennifer Ramirez and John White. Mark Cates, their instructor, is at the far right. Steward Department Classes – A pair of Seafarers recently completed steward department courses. Graduating and the courses they finished were Sheltia Wright (advanced galley operations) and Henry Bigelow (chief steward). April 2013 15044_APRIL2013LOG.indd 23 Machinist – Eight Seafarers completed the enhancement of their skills in this course March 1. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Bentley Arrundell, Damien Bautista, Tyesha Boyd, Herman Castro, Prentice Conley, Wilbert Hinton, Joe Nimcho and Patrick Sullivan. Steve Haver, their instructor, is at the far left. Medical Care Provider – Four mariners completed their requirements in this course Feb. 15. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Darryl Bence, Donald Bishop, Mana Muhsen and Gary Torres. Class Instructor Mike Roberts is at the far left. Steward Department Classes – Four upgraders recently finished steward department classes. Those graduating and their respective courses (above, in alphabetical order) were: Munasser Ahmed, galley operations; Walter Barnes, galley operations; Sheryl Farmer, advanced galley operations; and Fernando Lopes, advanced galley operations. Terrestrial & Coastal Navigation – Nine upgraders graduated from this course Feb. 22. Finishing their requirements (above, in alphabetical order) were: Jimmy Copeland, Michael Harris, Matthew Jenness, Enchantress Johnson, Nichoas Kempker, Jermaine McGhee, Oleg Pankratov, Rudy Puerto and Kwamena Watson. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Certified Chief Cook – Two upgraders recently graduated from this course. Completing their requirements (above) were Brion Lanata (left) and Michael Fernandez. Seafarers LOG 23 3/26/2013 7:27:43 PM �Volume 75, Number 4 April 2013 Paul Hall Center Course Dates Page 21 Park Offers Great Chance to Honor Seafarers, Others Engraved Bricks Available for Walkway at Paul Hall Center’s Lundeberg School Seafarers, their families and friends and the companies that employ them now have the opportunity to ensure those they care about will always be recognized and remembered within the maritime community. That opportunity is coming with the construction of a waterfront park at the Paul Hall Center’s Lundeberg School in Piney Point, Md. The park will feature a brick walkway where bricks can be donated and engraved to honor individuals, groups and organizations. The donation of a brick also comes with an entry in the project’s namethe-park contest. Seafarers Plans Administrator Maggie Bowen, who is helping oversee the project, said the engraved bricks “offer a chance to honor our heritage and keep it alive. This is a great opportunity not only to preserve SIU and school history, but also to acknowledge individuals and organizations. In fact, that’s true even if they have no direct tie to Piney Point or the Seafarers – a brick can be donated for anyone.” While the proceeds from the brick donations will be used to offset some of the costs of the phases of the waterfront reconstruction, the larger goal of the project is to beautify the area while giving people the chance to share This is the area where the walkway and waterfront park will be built. The order form and an electronic version of this sample brick (photo at left) are posted at www.seafarers.org/SIUbricks.htm memories and honor others in a lasting way. Bricks can be ordered to commemorate everything from departed loved ones and remarkable class instructors, to heroic rescues and memorable crews. The possibilities are practically limitless and the engravings don’t have to be related to the school or the union. Bricks are available in two sizes, and ordering information is available online at www.seafarers.org/SIUbricks.htm. The sizes include a traditional-sized brick (4 x 8 inches x 2.25) with three lines of engraving for a donation of $125 and a larger brick (8 x 8 inches x 2.25) with six lines of engraving for a donation of $250. The larger version also may be ordered with a corporate logo and up to three lines of text (subject to space limitations based on the logo) for a donation of $300. The park and walkway are part of a multi-stage restoration project for the school, which has resulted in more than 1,500 feet of old piers being replaced on the waterfront and as well as more than 1,000 feet of seawall. The restoration project has also included a new concrete pier and floating marina, a new pier site for the M/V John Fay training vessel, a single point davit with fast rescue capability and a new lifeboat davit with new lifeboats. Questions about the brick program may be emailed to SIUBricks@seafarers.org Waterfront Park Will Contain Brick Honoring Late, ‘Fun-Loving’ Recertified Steward When Bill Eglinton first heard about the SIU’s commemorative brick program, a smile spread across his face. He instantly knew who he wanted to honor. He could already picture the name appearing on the brick. That name was Luis Escobar. Known to Eglinton and others as a fun-loving and generous recertified steward, Escobar was murdered in his Florida home in 2007. While Escobar’s death was tragic, Eglinton said he saw the brick program as way to shine a positive spotlight on his gregarious friend. “Of course, it was devastating when we got the news,” said Eglinton, a retired director of vocational education at the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center’s Lundeberg School. “But when I heard what they were going to do (with engraved bricks) I thought I would sure like to dedicate a brick to Luis on his behalf.” The brick bearing Escobar’s name will take its place in a waterfront walkway at the Paul Hall Center’s Lundeberg School in Piney Point, Md. It will join a large collection of engraved bricks ordered by Seafarers, families, companies and others as a way of ensuring certain individuals, groups and crews will always be remembered within the maritime community. “It will be a memorial for us,” Eglinton said of one aspect of the brick program. “I’m at the school regularly, so I’ll get to go often and reminisce.” 15044_APRIL2013LOG.indd 24 He added it’s fitting that Escobar will find a permanent place in Piney Point. The two men met there during a summer crabbing session in the 1990s and shared many happy memories at the campus. Their friendship began when Escobar generously offered Eglinton and his son, Ryan, a bucket full of nearly three dozen crabs, and continued until his death. “Luis became a part of our family that summer and we came to learn about this caring, humorous, loving man,” Eglinton said. “He was just a fun-loving Seafarer.” Their memories at the school also included a once-in-a lifetime family meeting during Escobar’s graduation from the recertified steward program in 1998. Escobar had one daughter living in Colombia and another Living in Buffalo, New York; he arranged to have the two girls meet for the first time at his graduation ceremony. “Immediately, both girls started screaming each other’s names while running toward the stage,” Eglinton recalled. “There was not a dry eye in the place.” Eglinton said he and his wife, Sharon, are still in touch with Escobar’s daughter Paula. He added they’ll be sure to let her know about the brick honoring her father in Piney Point. “Maybe one day she would like to come and visit the school and see it with Luis’ The late Recertified Steward Luis Escobar (right) smiles as his daughters grandson,” Eglinton said. “It would be a re- meet in Piney Point, Md., in 1998. ally touching thing.” 3/26/2013 7:27:47 PM � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Seafarers Log Issues 2010-2019 Description An account of the resource Volumes LXXII-LXXXI of the Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Seafarers Log Digital Copies Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 2010-2019 Document A resource containing textual data. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre text. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource April 2013 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES NATIONAL SECURITY DEPENDS ON STRONG U.S. -FLAG FLEET UNION WELCOMES NEW JOBS AS NAVY CHRISTENS USNS MONTFORD POINT U.S. SENATORS URGE PRESIDENT OBAMA TO MAINTAIN FOOD FOR PEACE PROGRAM JONES ACT HAS NO ROLE IN FUEL PRICES MTD SPEAKERS DRAY BLUEPRINT FOR REVITALIZATION INDUSTRY, GOVERNMENT, MILITARY AND LABOR LEADERS PUSH FOR STRONG U.S. FLEET NAVY CHRISTENS USNS MONTFORD POINT AT GENERAL DYNAMICS NASSCO SHIPYARD CHSI, GCR BRIEF OFFICIALS ON NEW CLINIC SYSTEM GAO REPORT REFUTES JONES ACT CRITICS STUDY FINDS CABOTAGE LAY GOOD FOR PUERTO RICO PEREZ PICKED FOR LABOR SECRETARY SEAFARING FATHER, SON SAIL TOGETHER AGAIN ACTING LABOR SECRETARY HARRIS ADVOCATES VIEW THAT UNIONS ARE KEY TO MIDDLE-CLASS RESURGENCE U.S. ADMIRALS PRAISE MARINERS’ WORK, COOPERATION BETWEEN UNIONS, AGENCIES ‘ITS UP TO USE TO MAKE IT HAPPEN’ HAWAII GOVERNOR: ‘WE CAN WIN THIS THING’- EXECUTIVES AGREE, JONES ACT VITAL FOR AMERICA ITF OFFICIAL DESCRIBES CHALLENGES, OPPORTUNITY SPORTMEN’S ALLIANCE AFFORD VARIOUS EVENTS FOR UNIONS’ OUTDOOR ENTHUSIASTS MARINERS SHOULD CHECK TWIC EXPIRATION DATES PARK OFFERS GREAT CHANCE TO HONOR SEAFARERS, OTHERS WATERFRONT PARK WILL CONTAIN BRICK HONORING LATE, ‘FUN LOVING’ RECERTIFIED STEWARD Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Seafarers Log Digital Copies Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 04/01/2013 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Newsprint Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context Vol. 75, NO. 4 2013 Periodicals Seafarers Log http://www.seafarerslog.org/archives/files/original/f9bdd69c038241c8432c7017fd5555c0.pdf 8526b75dbb81beec3fe150f817dcfcff PDF Text Text Volume 75, Number 5 May 2013 Training With Our Military SIU members and officers from the West Coast RRF ships Grand Canyon State, Keystone State and Gem State are pictured with Navy personnel following cargo-handling training that took place in March. SIU members in the photo (front row) include Bosuns Mike Carvalho, Gheorghe Savencu and John Young, and ABs Greg Tojong and Artis Williams. Also pictured are Chief Mate Adena Kenny Grundy and Chief Mate Alex Butler. The training took place in Alameda, Calif., on both the Grand Canyon State and Keystone State, and it was conducted by U.S. Navy Cargo Handling Battalion 5. The ships are operated by Pacific-Gulf Marine. Waterfront Park Project Progresses At Piney Point, Md.-based School Engraved Bricks Constitute a Key Component The SIU and its affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education last month announced a special brick-donation program that’s part of the waterfront restoration project at the school in Piney Point, Md. Bricks come in different sizes and may be engraved with text and/or logos (see samples at right and below). See the back page for more details. Seafarers Play Key Roles In Great Lakes Fit-Out SIU members including Chief Cook Terri Sales (aboard the Sam Laud) helped kick off this year’s sailing season on the Great Lakes. Vessels operating on the Lakes play important roles in boosting America’s economy. Pages 12-13. Lawmakers Back Food for Peace Page 3 15045_May_LOG_X.indd 1 More on New Clinic System Page 4 Annual Funding Notices Pages 9, 10 4/26/2013 3:10:56 PM �President’s Report Standing up for American Maritime Jobs I’m sure no one in the SIU needed the reminder, but if anyone ever questioned why our union is so politically active, the current fight to save America’s Food for Peace program reinforces that reasoning. Also known as PL-480, Food for Peace is one of the pillars of the U.S.-flag Merchant Marine. The program has served our nation well – and benefited countless individuals around the globe – going back to its inception in 1954. Throughout all those decades, it has enjoyed solid bipartisan support. But at a moment when every budgetary dollar is being fought for in Washington, even though this would be an absolutely awful time to ship American jobs overseas, the program is under attack. (Not that there’s ever a good time to export our jobs, but given the ongoing economic problems and high unemployment here at home, let’s just say there’s bad Michael Sacco timing and then there’s bad timing.) And this comes on the heels of a big cut last year. As I said last month, we are treating this matter with utmost urgency and literally working on it seven days a week. Any time jobs are at stake, it’s a front-and-center issue for us. That’s also why we’ve teamed up with the AFL-CIO’s Maritime Trades Department for a grassroots campaign, launched in mid-April, to further let Congress and the administration know why full support of Food for Peace is so vital. You can bet it will also be a prime topic at this year’s maritime industry congressional “sail-in,” scheduled to take place May 8 on Capitol Hill. The details are important. One proposal from the administration calls for additional reductions in the use of American-flag ships in the PL-480 program, with monies going directly to foreign governments and nongovernmental operations. If this were to happen, more than half of the U.S.-flag vessels used to move Food for Peace cargo – and their American crews – would be left at the docks. American farmers and dockworkers would suffer, too. And, as we have seen over the years, money has a way of disappearing while people continue to go hungry. For 60 years, there has been no doubt the food sent overseas by American farmers aboard American vessels has reached its destinations to help those in need. And, there is no doubt who is supplying this vital aid. This battle couldn’t be more serious, but we do have a lot of support, as evidenced by recent letters to the White House from members of the U.S. House of Representatives and the U.S. Senate (see page 3). We can only get that kind of support by remaining politically active – not just during election cycles, but all the time. Educating senators and congressional representatives about our industry is a year-round job. Candidly, we still have some catching up to do on that front, given the retirements and other departures in recent years of some our industry’s biggest backers. I’ve often said that our grassroots activities and SPAD contributions and other outreach like the annual sail-in won’t guarantee success, but if we stayed on the sidelines, we’d be guaranteed to fail. Our odds are much better than if we were collectively buying a lottery ticket, but like the old commercial says, you’ve got to play to win. As our members know all too well, we work in a very heavily regulated industry. That includes not only rules governing training requirements and shipboard safety, but also federal maritime laws and programs that maintain the very core of the U.S. Merchant Marine: Food for Peace, the Jones Act, and the Maritime Security Program foremost among them. Heck, that’s why we moved our headquarters from New York to near Washington more than 30 years ago. We have to protect our livelihoods, and much of that work takes place in the nation’s capital. In our current fight to preserve Food for Peace, your help is critical. Let your senators and congressional reps know that American jobs and American sealift capabilities are at stake. Check with your port agent for sample letters that can be used to convey our message. We have faced these attacks before and beaten them back. We will succeed again with your help. Wage Increases Highlight Reopeners In Several Great Lakes Contracts The first quarter of the year proved busy and productive for Great Lakes-area Seafarers and union officials who negotiated several reopeners covering wages and benefits. Reopener agreements were reached with Erie Sand and Gravel; Champion Auto Ferry; Upper Lakes Towing; and VanEnkevort Tug and Barge. Following are summaries of the negotiations: Erie Sand and Gravel The SIU secured wage and vacation pay increases effective April 1, 2013 and again on April 1, 2014. The union also ensured that health benefits are maintained. SIU Vice President Great Lakes Tom Orzechowski and SIU Algonac Port Agent Todd Brdak negotiated on behalf of the SIU. The company, based in Erie, Pa., operates the sand-sucking dredge MV St. John on Lake Erie. Champion Auto Ferry The union negotiated a wage increase effective in the first pay period of April 2013. Brdak, SIU Representative Don Thornton and Pilots Ed Hotchkiss and Paul McGeachy bargained on behalf of the union. The company is based in Algonac and operates three auto ferries between there and Harsens Island, Mich. Upper Lakes Towing Both for licensed and unlicensed Seafarers, the union obtained annual wage increases for the remaining term of the contract, which runs through March 2019. The SIU also secured increases in vacation benefits this year and in 2015 and 2017, and maintained contributions to the Seafarers Money Purchase Pension Plan (SMPPP) and the union-affiliated Paul Seafarers gather at the hall in Algonac, Mich., for the March membership meeting. Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education. Additionally, health benefits will be maintained. Orzechowski and Brdak negotiated for the SIU. The company is based in Escanaba, Mich., and operates the articulated tug-barge (ATB) Joseph H. Thompson Jr. VanEnkevort Tug and Barge Annual wage increases were secured for the remainder of the contract, which expires at the end of March 2019. The union also negotiated for increased vacation benefits this year and in 2015 and 2017, plus maintained contributions to the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education. Health benefits and contributions to the SMPPP also will be maintained. Handling negotiations for the SIU were Orzechowski and Brdak. The company, based in Escanaba, operates the ATB Joyce L. VanEnkevort/Great Lakes Trader on the Great Lakes. In the photo above, Seafarers and two SIU officials are pictured at headquarters as the financial committee finishes its report. Seated left to right are George Mazzola, Malcolm Holmes, Rodger Taylor and Timothy Pillsworth. Standing (from left) are Asst. VP Ambrose Cucinotta, Lauren Oram, Michael Harris (committee chairman), Marychris Littel and Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel. The photo at left below shows the committee working earlier in the week. Committee Approves Financial Records Volume 75, Number 5 May 2013 The SIU online: www.seafarers.org The Seafarers LOG (ISSN 1086-4636) is published monthly by the Seafarers International Union; Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters, AFL-CIO; 5201 Auth Way; Camp Springs, MD 20746. Telephone (301) 899-0675. Periodicals postage paid at Southern Maryland 20790-9998. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to the Seafarers LOG, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. Communications Director, Jordan Biscardo; Managing Editor/Production, Jim Guthrie; Assistant Editor, Brian Ahern; Photographer, Harry Gieske; Administrative Support, Misty Dobry. Copyright © 2013 Seafarers International Union, AGLIWD. All Rights Reserved. The Seafarers International Union engaged an environmentally friendly printer for the production of this newspaper. 2 Seafarers LOG 15045_May_LOG.indd 2 Rank-and-File Group Completes Review of Union’s 2012 Paperwork The union’s financial records for 2012 have been reviewed and approved by a committee of rank-and-file Seafarers who were elected by fellow SIU members at the April membership meeting in Piney Point, Md. This annual review is mandated by the union’s constitution, which also calls for the financial committee’s report to be read in all ports at the SIU’s monthly membership meetings and presented for membership approval. The report also has been submitted to the SIU secretary-treasurer. The following Seafarers served on the committee following their election: Michael Harris (chairman), Malcolm Holmes, Marychris Littel, George Mazzola, Lauren Oram, Timothy Pillsworth and Rodger Taylor. They met at SIU headquarters in Camp Springs, Md., the first week of April, where they studied all of the appropriate records and found them in good order. In its report, the committee noted, “All records used in connection with the union’s financial operations were reviewed fully…. We find that the headquarters of the union is taking all steps possible to safeguard union funds and to see that the disbursements of the union are in accordance with the authority delegated to them and that, at the same time, there is a striving effort to increase day-to-day efficiency of our operation.” Article X, Section 14-c of the SIU Constitution lists the duties of the annual financial committee along with rules and procedures for electing the committee. May 2013 4/25/2013 3:25:10 PM �Congressmen to White House: Food for Peace ‘Critical’ Key Coalition Urges Administration Not to Ship American Jobs Overseas A bipartisan group of 30 United States Congressional representatives on April 5 wrote to President Obama urging his support of America’s Food for Peace program created by Public Law (PL) 480. Days later, the industry coalition USA Maritime blasted the administration’s budget proposal for Fiscal Year 2014, which included a recommendation to severely alter the program in part by diverting almost half its funding. The program is widely acknowledged not only as a proven success, but also a key factor in the nation’s capacity to maintain a viable U.S. Merchant Marine. In their letter, the representatives pointed out, “Since 1954, Food for Peace has enabled the United States to play a leading role in responding to international food assistance needs and ensuring global food security. In recent years, Title II of Food for Peace, which i s administered by the U.S. Agency for International Development, has become the largest vehicle for U.S. international food aid shipments. Under Title II, U.S. agricultural commodities are shipped to developing countries to provide emergency relief to those facing food shortages and to support broader development objectives. In fiscal year 2011, Food for Peace donated approximately 1.5 million metric tons of U.S.-grown Title II emergency and development food aid to more than 46 million food-insecure people in 48 countries including Kenya, Ethiopia, Bangladesh, and Afghanistan. “Food for Peace is also critical to supporting employment among U.S. farmers and merchant mariners. The purchase of food from U.S. farmers and its subsequent shipment on U.S.-flagged vessels has helped support U.S. farm production and preserve the U.S. Merchant Marine. Reductions in funding for this program – or changes in how it operates – would significantly reduce the amount of U.S. farm products our nation could provide to those in need around the world. It would also threaten our national security preparedness by reducing the domestic sealift capacity on which our U.S. military depends.” Signing the letter were U.S. Reps. Elijah E. Cummings (D-Md.), Duncan Hunter (R-Calif.), John Garamendi (D-Calif.), Nick J. Rahall II (D-W.Va.), Corrine Brown (D-Fla.), Charles W. Boustany Jr. (R-La.), Janice Hahn (D-Calif.), Gary G. Miller (R-Calif.), Linda T. Sánchez (D-Calif.), Michael M. Honda (D-Calif.), Frank A. LoBiondo (R-N.J.), Renee L. Ellmers (R-N.C.), Marcy Kaptur (D-Ohio), David P. Joyce (R-Ohio), Tom Latham (R-Iowa), Alan S. Lowenthal (D-Calif.), Gerald E. Connolly (D-Va.), Stephen Lee Fincher (R-Tenn.), Bob Gibbs (R-Ohio), Michael G. Grimm (R-N.Y.), Marcia L. Fudge (D-Ohio), C.A. Dutch Ruppersberger (DMd.), Don Young (R-Alaska), Richard M. Nolan (D-Minn.), Cedric L. Richmond (D-La.), Rick Larsen (D-Wash.), Cheri Congress Conducts Piracy Hearing Bustos (D-Ill.), Kathy Castor (D-Fla.), Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-D.C.) and Sheila Jackson Lee (D-Texas). Meanwhile, USA Maritime – whose affiliates include the SIU, several other maritime unions, shipowners, operators and other maritime trade associations – criticized the budget proposal as “an unnecessary and harmful change to our flagship international aid program. We continue to view this proposal as shortsighted and seriously damaging to both national security and merchant mariner jobs.” The group further pointed out that the program has benefited more than 3 billion people in 150 countries and is an important symbol of America’s goodwill. “Unlike other foreign aid programs, this time-tested program does more than just send aid overseas,” the statement read. “Food for Peace is a point of pride for the 44,000 American farmers, shippers, processors, longshoremen, and merchant mariners whose jobs depend upon the program. Food for Peace leverages private and public resources to make a meaningful difference for millions of people in a way that Government cash handouts simply cannot. “Food for Peace is not only one of our premier diplomatic tools, but it is also an important component of our national security. By ensuring a steady flow of American cargo shipped by Americans on U.S.-flag ships, PL-480 helps maintain our U.S. Merchant Marine, which is critical for our ability to support our troops and first responders in time of war or national emergency. In fact, American mariners on commercial U.S.-flag vessels delivered more than 90 percent of defense cargo to military posts in Iraq and Afghanistan. According to the Department of Defense, without the base of food aid cargoes to help sustain the commercial U.S.-flag fleet, we will not be able to sustain the national defense sealift capability our military needs without significant additional Federal expenditures. “The administration’s proposals to shift funding to a system of global food stampvouchers, or to shift to purchases of food aid from allegedly cheaper foreign suppliers instead of donating wholesome commodities grown by American farmers will be harmful to our U.S. Merchant Marine, harmful to our national defense sealift capability, harmful to our farmers and millers, and bad for our economy. USA Maritime strongly encourages Congress to reject the administration’s misguided proposal, maintain the current program and sustain PL 480 Food for Peace funding. Doing so will ensure that this program continues to focus on the reliable export of safe and nutritious U.S.-grown commodities to those in need overseas.” The coalition concluded that during a time when “unemployment remains a major obstacle to economic growth, shipping American jobs overseas is the last thing any administration should be proposing.” E-Board Addresses Sequestration Officials Hope to Build on Recent Successes Piracy on the world’s seas may be falling in prevalence, but officials testified in a recent congressional hearing on the matter that more work would be needed to build on recent successes and battle piracy where it remains. Chaired by U.S. Rep. Duncan Hunter (R-Calif.), the House Subcommittee on Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation heard from a variety of officials about the battle against piracy and strategies for ensuring ongoing progress. Hunter discussed the advancement against piracy in his opening remarks, adding efforts by the maritime industry, including maritime labor and others made all the difference. “Since the subcommittee’s last hearing on this topic, there has been a dramatic reduction in the number of attacks off the Horn of Africa,” Hunter said. “I commend industry, labor, the federal government, and the international community for working together and taking strong actions to improve the safety and security of the crews, vessels, and cargoes transiting those strategically important waters.” The hearing followed a recent report released by the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) showing that maritime piracy had reached a five-year low. While the report revealed there was a significant reduction in Somali piracy on the East Africa coast, it indicated the battle was far from over. Hunter said that could be seen in the number of attacks off the West African coast. “Unfortunately, although the situation has improved on the East Coast of Africa, it has deteriorated on the West Coast,” he said. “Attacks on vessels and mariners in the Gulf Coast of Guinea have risen nearly 20 percent from 2011 to 2012. Pirates are venturing further and further from shore and using more violent attacks.” In his testimony to the subcommittee, U.S. Navy Rear Adm. Joseph Kuzmick pointed to proactive measures taken by May 2013 15045_May_LOG.indd 3 both the shipping industry and the military. Those actions helped ward off attacks in the past, he added, and they would be able to prevent more in the future. From the implementation of best management practices (BMPs) and the employment of armed security personnel, to an increase in naval deployments, Kuzmick said fighting piracy has been a team effort. “BMPs include the use of concertina, razor wire and water hoses; transiting at speeds above 16 knots; use of ship citadels; and avoiding high-risk seas,” he said, adding that armed security also helps. “If the pirates identify armed security on a vessel, they will normally leave the area and search for a more vulnerable target.” The battle against piracy also needs inter-agency, multi-national cooperation, added Rear Adm. Joseph Servidio, assistant commandant for prevention policy for the U.S. Coast Guard. “The threats piracy pose to the United States, our international partners, the maritime industry and mariners are multifaceted,” he said. “The response to these threats requires a broad array of legal authorities, operational capabilities, skills and competencies and the support and expertise of numerous U.S. governments, international and commercial entities. The Coast Guard has an important role to play and remains committed to working with our military, government, maritime industry and international partners to reduce acts of piracy, bring these criminals to justice and forge long-term solutions for regional maritime safety and security.” While he commended the gains that had been made, David Matsuda, administrator of the Maritime Administration (MarAd), said piracy in the Gulf of Guinea remained a problem, adding the agency would continue to give operational advice to counter piracy and raise awareness. The union’s executive board met April 8 in Piney Point, Md., to further discuss potential effects of sequestration on the maritime industry and to hone strategies for protecting SIU jobs. Pictured from left to right in each photo, starting above, are VP Contracts George Tricker, VP Great Lakes Tom Orzechowski, President Michael Sacco, Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel, (center photo) Chief Counsel Leslie Tarantola, Plans Administrator Maggie Bowen, VP Government Services Kermett Mangram, (bottom) VP West Coast Nick Marrone, VP Gulf Coast Dean Corgey, UIW National Director John Spadaro and VP Atlantic Coast Joseph Soresi. Seafarers LOG 3 4/25/2013 3:25:12 PM �Clinic System Has Growing Pains, But Members See Key Advantages The Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan’s (SHBP) new Health Clinic System has been online and fully operational for only about a month, but early indicators suggest that the new arrangement is promising to be popular among rank-and-file members. As of press time for this edition of the Seafarers LOG, a significant number of active Seafarers had utilized the system in and around the union’s 20 constitutionally established ports. As expected, a few hiccups and growing pains have surfaced, but union officials are optimistic that these anomalies will soon be rectified. “Whenever a huge project is taken on, it is inevitable that you will encounter glitches and obstacles along the way that can be frustrating,” said Vice President Contracts George Tricker. “However, we are confident that once these initial challenges are overcome, the membership will benefit from these new services and will enjoy the flexibility that exams provided close to home afford them.” The recent experiences of two mariners appear to bolster Tricker’s expectations. AB Jimmy Orr, who works aboard the ATB Resolve, described his first time using the new clinic system as “an awesome experience.” Orr lives in Savannah, Ga., and it used to take him two and onehalf hours to drive to an authorized health clinic (five-hour round trip) for his exams. Now, he’s just minutes away from one of Comprehensive Health Services’ (CHSi) more than 2,000 participating facilities in the contiguous United States. “This is a big time-saver,” he said. “Let it be known, at least from my perspective, a great job was done by everybody involved in the decision to go with the new system.” Echoing Orr’s sentiments was FOWT Justin Machuga, who said his first experience with the new clinic system “went pretty well overall.” The clinic he visited is “a lot closer to home and everyone was cooperative and made sure that I knew what was happening,” Machuga said at the SIU hall in Jacksonville, Fla. “All in all, I think it (the new health clinic system) will help things move more smoothly.” Machuga lives in New Smyrna Beach, Fla. Under the old system, he had to drive two hours each way—not including trips for follow-ups—for a physical. He underwent his most recent physical at a CHSi Clinic in Daytona, Fla., just 15 minutes away from his residence. Machuga credited CHSi for working well with his local doctor’s office and vice versa. “I also saved time driving and money on fuel,” he concluded. As was reported in the February, March and April editions Seafarers LOG, the SIU and SHBP earlier this year contracted CHSi to provide active members with a more extensive network for clinic services. CHSi’s larger network almost always offers members access to clinics closer to their homes for annual exams, functional capacity evaluations and interval exams. Utilizing the new clinic system allows mariners to schedule the exams they need by following an eight-step process. Medical exams are of two types (automated and approval required by the SHBP Medical Department) and are required at various frequencies. The medical exams are as follows: Automated Exams n Annual Physical Examination – required no more than once annually, no sooner than 60 days prior to the expiration date of the previous exam n New Member Physical Exam – this is a onetime requirement and is necessary only upon entry into the system n U.S. Coast Guard Exam – required once every two years unless the mariner is upgrading n Interval Exam – needed once every six months for deep sea members n DOT/U.S. Coast Guard Drug Test – needed once every 6 months (unless otherwise authorized by the SHBP Medical Department) n Benzene Clearance – mandatory no more than once annually, no sooner than 60 days prior to the expiration date of previous annual exam n Steward Department Certification – compulsory no more than once annually, no sooner than 60 days prior to the expiration date of the mariner’s previous annual exam n Unlicensed Apprentice Physical Exam – Will become automated after initial HLSS notification of acceptance. This exam, which must be requested at a local port office, is required one time only upon entry into the system n Functional Capacity Evaluation – required no more than once annually, no sooner than 60 days prior to expiration date of previous annual exam Approval Required Exams nReturn to Duty Exam – (repatriation, interval illness or injury, etc.) Required upon demand by SHBP Medical Department n MSC Physical Exam – required by job order and approved as necessary by the SHBP Medical Department n MSC Shots only– required by job order and approved as necessary by the SHBP Medical Department n Commercial Non-MSC Shots only– required by job order and approved as necessary by the SHBP Medical Department n ARC Exam – approval required by ARC and SHBP Medical Department n TB Screening only – needed upon demand by SHBP Medical Department n Members should take following the steps in order to schedule exams: Step 1 – Ports (and eventually all mariners) order the exam type they need Step 2 – CHSi receives exam request and contacts mariners within 24 hours Step 3 – CHSi schedules exams and notifies mariner of appointment date. All paperwork/lab kits are sent to the local clinics Step 4 – CHSi network clinic performs exams and completes all associated paperwork Step 5 – CHSi network clinic sends completed paperwork to CHSi and lab specimens to lab Step 6 – CHSi conducts quality assurance of all paperwork for completeness Step 7 – CHSi Medical Review Officer reviews record and makes preliminary recommendation of fitness determination Step 8 – CHSi sends completed medical record to SHBP Medical Department Plans Department Sends Message to SIU Members We have been utilizing the new medical system with CHSi for approximately six to eight weeks. During this time we have experienced positive feedback as well as identified some system difficulties. The following are some suggestions to make the process flow easier. Start the process early. You are able to request services 60 days prior to the expiration of your current clinic card. You can initiate the services by contacting your local port. In the near future you will be able to start the process by ordering the services through your Member Portal account. You no longer need paperwork issued by the port to take to the clinic, so you don’t have to be onsite to start the process. Allow the process to work. After requesting services please wait 24 hours for CHSi to contact you. Seafarers have been contacting CHSi directly right away, which means that the CHSi schedulers have to stop the normal order of things and put you ahead of Seafarers that have been waiting to be contacted. This causes the whole system to back up. CHSi had 4 Seafarers LOG 15045_May_LOG.indd 4 been experiencing a delay of three days in scheduling exams. In response they have added staff and are current in these communications. Try to stick with your scheduled appointment. The flexibility that is offered by the expanded network allows for you to have services in a variety of locations. Please plan accordingly, keeping in mind that the entire process of scheduling exams through the return of your medical clearance takes between one to two weeks. Expedited exams should be rare. The system as it is designed provides a larger network as well as consistency and quality of exams. In order to achieve these goals it requires central routing of requests and medical records. If you truly have a need for an expedited exam it is best to work with your port official and our medical department to get your needs met. We will continue to monitor and adjust the process as we move along to make it work as efficiently and effectively as possible. In the meantime we ask for your continued patience and support. Coast Guard Issues Reminder, Instructions For Obtaining STCW Security Endorsements As previously reported, the most recent amendments to the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW) led the U.S. Coast Guard to issue a policy letter outlining new security training and endorsement requirements for all vessel personnel. According to that policy letter (No. 12-06), as of Jan. 1, 2014 all mariners must have an STCW security endorsement as part of their merchant mariner credential (MMC) in line with their respective assigned duties. Detailed information is available in a March 28 post in the News section of the SIU website at: www.seafarers.org/news/2013/Q1/STCWSecurityEndorsementInfo.htm The same information should be available at all SIU halls. Included with the March 28 post are links to the policy letter; a related, two-page FAQ (which also covers information from a separate policy letter); a related sample letter (which also is included at the end of this article); and a link to Coast Guard forms 719B and 719K. Questions may be directed to the NMC at 1-888-IASKNMC (1-888-427-5662), 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday. SIU members who currently have a Vessel Security Officer (VSO) endorsement already comply with the new requirement. Other members will need to secure a letter from their employer (company) or vessel master confirming sea time or performance of security functions equivalent to designated security duties for six months in the previous three years that satisfy the requirements for the new endorsements and then send it to the NMC, or they’ll need to show proof of having completed an approved course that meets the requirements. If demonstrating completion of an approved course, the certificate of completion should be attached to Coast Guard form 719B as an application for an endorsement. If the mariner is also seeking a renewal of an existing document, form 719K (Medical Evaluation Report) would also have to be filed. Alternatively, mariners who commenced sea service prior to Jan. 1, 2012 may apply for the VPDSD endorsement by providing documentation attesting to seagoing service with designated security duties for a period of six months in the preceding three years. These duties may include, but are not limited to, duties specified in the vessel security plan or as assigned on a station bill. Documentation of this service can be a letter or certificate signed by a company official, including a vessel master. This letter is to be presented to the NMC as an attachment to a form 719B. Another method of satisfying the requirement is to secure a letter signed by a company official attesting to performance of security functions considered to be equivalent in scope to shipboard designated duties for a period of six months in the previous three years. The three STCW security endorsements are: n SA – VI/6 – Security Awareness n VPDSD – VI/6 – Vessel Personnel with Designated Security Duties n VSO – VI/5 – Vessel Security Officer Unless VSO has already been placed on the STCW page of a mariner’s MMC, he or she will need to obtain one of the endorsements listed above. Both the SIU and its affiliated school in Piney Point, Md., believe that most mariners will require the VPDSD endorsement. According to the policy letter, mariners will not be charged for adding an STCW endorsement if they apply before Jan. 1, 2014 unless they’re seeking a renewal or a raise in grade of their MMCs, nor will the expiration dates change. Sample Letter for those with Sea Time Prior to January 1, 2012: Commanding Officer U.S. Coast Guard National Maritime Center 100 Forbes Drive Martinsburg, WV 25404 Dear Sir: This letter is to provide documentation that NAME has seagoing service with designated security duties for a period of at least six months during the preceding three years and meets the STCW qualifications for Vessel Personnel with Designated Security Duties. Sincerely, NAME OF MASTER OR COMPANY OFFICIAL May 2013 4/25/2013 3:25:12 PM �SHBP Introduces SIU Official Explains Importance Innovative Benefits Of Seafarers ‘Bill of Rights’ Eligible Seafarers and their dependents have access to new benefits, according to a recent communication from the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan (SHBP). An early April letter from Seafarers Plans Administrator Maggie Bowen to SHBP participants described “new rehabilitation benefits for Seafarers and their dependents at the Core and Core-Plus benefit levels. The benefits will provide coverage for inpatient and outpatient rehabilitation services for Seafarers and their dependents who are recovering from a catastrophic illness or injury. The Trustees have approved this benefit as a one-year pilot program, retroactive to January 1, 2013. At the end of the year, the Trustees will evaluate the benefits, and make a determination about rehabilitation benefits for 2014 and any subsequent years.” In addition to the regular mailing, a PDF copy of the letter is posted in the SHBP section of the SIU website. To access it online, click on the headline that reads, “SHBP Letter Concerning Rehabilitation Benefits (April 2013).” The letter specifies that in order to be eligible, the member or his or her dependent “must be recovering from a catastrophic illness or injury, which the Plan defines as: the acute onset of a medical condition resulting from an illness or injury, which will require extensive rehabilitation services. Some examples of a catastrophic illness or injury are: a stroke, a severe accident, or a heart attack. In order to be eligible for this benefit, the patient must be expected to improve to a certain level of recovery and must require rehabilitative therapy or skilled nursing care on a daily basis. The Plan still does not provide benefits for custodial care.” During the pilot program, the SHBP will pay for inpatient rehabilitation for eligible Seafarers for up to 180 days or $1 million per inpatient stay, or until the member “reaches maximum medical improvement … when the Seafarer is confined at a skilled nursing facility or acute rehabilitation facility.” Coverage amounts vary depending on whether facilities are in or out of network. Also, the benefit covers charges for physical, occupational, speech, pulmonary and cognitive therapy while the employee is an inpatient. Outpatient rehabilitation services for members following a catastrophic illness or injury also are covered. This is separate from the physical therapy benefit that members already receive for non-catastrophic illness or injury. For eligible dependents of members at the Core or CorePlus levels, the SHBP also will pay for inpatient rehab for up to 180 days or $1 million per inpatient stay, or until the dependent “reaches maximum medical improvement … when a dependent is confined at a skilled nursing facility or acute rehabilitation facility.” Here again, coverage amounts differ based on network status, and the benefit covers charges for physical, occupational, speech, pulmonary and cognitive therapy while the dependent is an inpatient. Detailed information about other components of the new coverage is available in the letter. This includes outpatient rehab services for dependents, cardiac rehabilitation, and rental or purchase of durable medical equipment that is required in rehab. “These new benefits are subject to the same limitations on the payments of benefits, as well as the deductible amounts, copayments and co-insurance that apply to other Plan benefits,” Bowen noted in the letter. Questions may be directed to the SHBP at (800) 252-4674. Push Continues for U.S. Ratification of Maritime Labor Convention 2006 about fairness: fairness to the legitimate shipowner and, more importantly, fairness to the seafarers employed by them.” The MLC incorporates principles found in many International Labor Organization conventions and combines the standards Describing it as one of the most im- of 68 conventions into one document. portant pieces of international maritime Once implemented, Heindel said, mariners legislation in modern history, SIU Secre- around the world would reap the benefits tary-Treasurer David Heindel told a recent of the MLC. shipping industry gathering that the Mari“This new super-convention, if you time Labor Convention, 2006 (MLC) will will, is truly the Magna Carta of the modundoubtedly change international shipping ern merchant marine and is arguably the for the better. most important conven“When asked to give tion covering migratory a seafarer perspective on workers which has ever the subject of the Maribeen adopted,” Heindel time Labor Convention, said. “The convention I jumped at the opportuaims to achieve both denity,” said Heindel, who cent employment rights also serves as chairman for seafarers while seof the Seafarers’ Section curing the economic of the SIU-affiliated Ininterests and fair comternational Transport petition for quality shipWorkers’ Federation owners.” (ITF). “That’s primarThe MLC has been ily because the MLC ratified by 35 countries may be one of, if not the representing nearly 70 most important piece of percent of gross world international legislation ship tonnage, though on behalf of seafarers Heindel said the conenacted in maritime hisvention will still impact tory in nearly 100 years. countries – including As important as the the United States – that David Heindel Jones Act is to U.S. seahave yet to ratify it. SIU Secretary-Treasurer farers and our domestic Ships from non-ratifycarriers, the Maritime ing countries may be Labor Convention is subject to inspection just as significant to international seafar- when docking in countries that have ratiers and their shipowners.” fied the MLC. Speaking to a gathering of more than While U.S. laws and regulations, cou2,400 maritime industry leaders at the pled with collective bargaining agreeConnecticut Maritime Association’s CMA ments, ensure U.S.-flag ships exceed the Shipping 2013 event, Heindel reviewed the provisions of the MLC, Heindel said only history of international shipping and how U.S. ratification of the convention would so-called flag-of-convenience registries guarantee American ships are not detained. have allowed some shipowners to avoid “With regard to the U.S. ratification, providing seafarers with adequate pay and we have been working with the U.S. Coast safe working conditions. He added the Guard and Department of Labor and our MLC – which is set to begin implementa- social partners (shipowners) to bring it fortion in August – will do much to remedy ward and are quite happy to say we hope that problem. to have the U.S. Senate vote on ratification “The [MLC] provides comprehensive before year’s end,” Heindel said. “We owe rights and protections at work for the it to the world’s seafarers and look forward world’s more than 1.5 million seafarers,” to a speedy U.S. ratification and enforcehe said. “In my mind, the convention is all ment.” ITF Warns of Flags-of-Convenience in Aviation Report Outlines Rising Prevalence, Damage to Workers, Security The SIU-affiliated International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF) is warning that the damaging flags-ofconvenience practice seen in maritime is spreading to the aviation industry. In a presentation to the International Civil Aviation Organization’s (ICAO) Air Transport Conference in Montreal, ITF Civil Aviation Section Secretary Gabriel Mocho issued a report outlining the growth of so-called flags-of-convenience in aviation and urged ICAO to take steps against the system. ICAO is a specialized agency of the United Nations that sets standards and regulations for aviation safety, security efficiency and regularity. “This event brings together stakeholders from across the world of aviation. Its core purpose is to develop the regulation necessary for a sustainable aviation industry – a matter of burning importance to us all,” Mocho said in his presentation of the ITF’s report. “The ITF is deeply supportive of this aim.” May 2013 15045_May_LOG.indd 5 Also known as runaway flags, flags-of-convenience scenarios traditionally involve shipowners registering their vessels with foreign countries that offer tax avoidance, low safety and labor standards and inadequate inspection procedures. Companies register with these countries in an attempt to save costs, while those working on the ships often endure low pay and substandard working conditions. In its report, the ITF said a similar practice is being seen in the aviation industry. “The ITF will be bringing its 65 years of experience in fighting the worst excesses of flags-of-convenience in shipping to the debate about the rise of flags-ofconvenience in aviation,” Mocho said. “These have become increasingly visible and potentially risk undermining transparency, accountability and even safety.” According to the report, “The growing number of parallels in today’s civil aviation to traditional maritime ‘flagging out’ scenarios is striking. Offshore registries for civil aviation aircraft exist and are growing in Aruba, Bermuda, Ireland, Malta, George and Lithuania. Offshore registries for private aircraft also exist in the Cayman Islands, the Isle of Man and San Marino.” The ITF added that aviation workers have felt the effects of this growing problem. Some companies turn to the runaway flag practice as a way of avoiding regulation and offering less to employees. “Air transport workers have been used repeatedly and increasingly since 2000 as the primary shock absorbers for managing the effects of deregulation, liberalization, the periodic business cycles and external shocks in the industry, often with devastating social consequences,” the report read. “There is growing evidence that airlines under liberalization are increasingly restructuring their operations to reflect classic maritime flags-of-convenience scenarios.” Aside from outlining the problem, the ITF also called on the conference to take action. The ITF urged ICAO to develop future work programs with the explicit recognition that airline workers’ interests should be considered when evaluating any proposed recommendations or guidelines. It also called on the organization to work closely with the United Nations agencies – particularly with the ILO in developing follow-up strategies on the ILO’s recent study on the aviation industry. Seafarers LOG 5 4/25/2013 3:25:13 PM �At Sea And . . . BOSUN EARNS AWARD – Aboard the USNS Henson, Bosun Joseph Gierbolini recently earned a Maersk Line, Limited monthly safety award. The cash awards are part of an ongoing safety program. ABOARD ALLIANCE ST. LOUIS – Chief Cook Vincent Chavez and SA Lea Ramos help keep fellow mariners well-fed aboard Maersk Line, Limited’s Alliance St. Louis. KUDOS TO CHIEF COOK – Chief Steward Tom Klein recently commended the work of Chief Cook Bannacke Figueroa (left), pictured aboard Crowley’s Integrity with SIU Baltimore Port Agent Elizabeth Brown. Klein said Figueroa is “the best of the best.” NEW TONNAGE – Seafarers joined in celebrating the christening of the new Crowley tanker Pennsylvania late last year in Corpus Christi, Texas. Crew members and officers are pictured aboard the vessel with company President and CEO Tom Crowley Jr. (front, sixth from right) and sponsors. The Pennsylvania sails in the Jones Act trade. AT THE READY – Bosun James Crate (left) recently welcomed SIU Asst. VP Nick Celona (right) and Patrolman Nick Marrone II (behind the lens) aboard the USNS Petersburg. The TOTEoperated vessel is part of America’s Ready Reserve Force. ABOARD OCEAN ATLAS – SIU Houston Patrolman Joe Zavala recently submitted these photos of AB Caroline Lawrence (photo at left above) and Electrician Tomas Merel aboard the Ocean Atlas. The ship is operated by Crowley for Intermarine. ON WATCH – AB Derick Glenn stands watch aboard Liberty Maritime’s Liberty Grace. CALLING IT A CAREER – Fellow Seafarers recently offered a hearty welcome ashore to Chief Cook James Boss (center), pictured aboard his last ship, Matson’s Maunalei. Thanks to Recertified Steward Barry Alviso (right) for sending the pic. Also pictured (left) is ACU Larry Ballard. 6 Seafarers LOG 15045_May_LOG.indd 6 May 2013 4/25/2013 3:25:18 PM �. . . Ashore With The SIU HONORING THE DREAM – Houston-area Seafarers including those pictured here with SIU VP Gulf Coast Dean Corgey (third from right) participated in this year’s parade honoring the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. The SIU contingent included Orakwue Daniel Ikegwu, Diani Rosana Melendez Castillo, Allan Tadle Oculam, Angel Bernardez, Donaldo Ezequiel Clotter, Charles Joiner Hill, Sirio Milmor Centino, and Christopher Lyons. A-BOOK IN ANCHORAGE – Earlier this year, QE4 Jared Latta (left) received his A-seniority book from SIU Port Agent Tracey Mayhew at the hall in Anchorage, Alaska. WELCOME ASHORE IN JACKSONVILLE – Stopping by the union hall in Jacksonville, Fla., to pick up their first retirement checks, respectively, were Capt. Michael Gates (right in photo at left above, with Patrolman Brian Guiry) and Chief Engineer Albert Mercer (left in photo at right above, with Asst. VP Archie Ware). WELCOME ASHORE IN HOUSTON – AB Russell Haynes (left) picks up his first pension check at the union hall in Houston. Presenting the check is Port Agent Mike Russo. SWAPPING SEA STORIES – Retired Patrolman Tony Aronica submitted the snapshot directly above of “two old-timers.” Retired Pumpman John Quinter is at left, with former deck gang member Gunder Hansen. LEARNING ABOUT UNION PLUS – Members (photo at left) gathered at the hall in Norfolk, Va., earlier this year to learn more about benefits available to them through Union Plus, an AFL-CIO organization. Some of the SIU attendees are pictured showing their Rosie the Riveter spirit. Visit unionplus.org for information about the various programs available to Seafarers because of the SIU’s participation in Union Plus. BOOKS PRESENTED IN OAKLAND – During the February membership meeting in Oakland, Calif., SAs Aurora Kirkwood (right in photo at right, with SIU VP West Coast Nick Marrone) and Abraham Dominguez (center in other photo, with Marrone and Asst. VP Nick Celona) took the union oath and picked up their respective full books. May 2013 15045_May_LOG.indd 7 Seafarers LOG 7 4/25/2013 3:25:22 PM �Six Stewards Complete Recertification Six Stewards Ascend to Apex of Culinary Hierarchy Six Seafarers reached the top of their respective careers in the steward department recently when they graduated from the steward recertification course at the union-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education (PHC) in Piney Point, Md. In recognition of their ascent to the summit of the culinary hierarchy, each received certificates April 8 during the union’s membership at the PHC. The graduates—Stewards Shirley Bellamy, John Greubel, Cleto Lindong, Karl Meyer, Sean Richard and Anthony Jacobson—also addressed union officials, fellow upgraders, trainees and guests who attended the meeting. Collectively, they expressed their gratitude for the opportunities they have been afforded to enhance their skills, improve their lives and those of their families, and become better shipmates to their brothers and sisters aboard SIU-contracted vessels. In addition, each thanked the union leadership for its continued support, and the PHC vocational and hotel staffs for their excellent instruction and accommodations, respectively. Finally, they acknowledged a host of other individuals who played key roles in their successes. Shirley Bellamy Bellamy was the first to take the podium. She sails out of the Port of Jacksonville and is a native of Federalsburg, Md. Prior to joining the union, she worked in cosmetology. She has upgraded on several previous occasions at the PHC. Bellamy told the audience she has been sailing since 1997 and that her transition to the maritime industry from her previous line of work was both challenging and rewarding. “I’ve always wanted to see the world,” she said. “I dreamed about visiting places such as Africa, Japan, Greece, Spain and the Middle East. All of that has become a reality thanks to the SIU and the wonderful career it has given me.” As a result of the recertification training, Bellamy said, she gained a broader awareness of sanitation. In addition, she became more aware of the behind-the-scenes workings of the union. “I’ll now be better able to answer questions about the union for my shipmates and point them in the right directions when they encounter problems,” she said. Bellamy told the trainees the school represents a tremendous opportunity for them. “I encourage each of you to take advantage of everything the Paul Hall Center has to offer,” she said. “You are the future of the SIU and your endurance will pay off. “Once you to go to sea, pay attention, keep a positive attitude and always work hard,” she said in closing. “It’s also important that you be professional and always strive to do your best.” Sean Richard Richard was next to address the audience. He ships out of the Port of New Orleans and has been an SIU member for 21 years. A frequent upgrader, he has attended the PHC on four previous occasions. “Each time I attended this school, I learned more and more to enhance my skills,” he said. “And this time was no different.” In addition to areas covered by the recertification curriculum such as sanitation, safety, and first aid, Richard was excited about the knowledge he acquired about the union. “I improved my management skills and gained important insights on how the union actually operates,” he said. “I was also given a firsthand look at how hard our union leaders work to protect and keep our jobs and maintain our benefits. “My career with the SIU gave me the opportunity to travel the world, work, meet some wonderful people, and earn some good money Recertified Steward Shirley Bellamy 8 Seafarers LOG 15045_May_LOG.indd 8 Members of the steward recertification class joined union officials for the photo above following the April membership meeting at the Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md. Standing from left to right are VP Government Services Kermett Mangram, VP Great Lakes Tom Orzechowski, John Greubel, Cleto Lindong, Sean Richard, VP West Coast Nick Marrone, Karl Meyer, SIU President Michael Sacco, VP Contracts George Tricker, Shirley Bellamy, UIW National Director John Spadaro, VP Gulf Coast Dean Corgey, Anthony Jacobson, VP Atlantic Coast Joseph Soresi and Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel. in the process,” he said. “I must say that I would not trade it for anything in the world.” Richard advised the trainees to “not focus on how much money you will make, instead focus on how much you can save. When you go to sea, respect your shipmates regardless of their race, religion or gender. When on a ship crossing the ocean, we must all depend on and work with each other. We are one big family. “In the area of job performance, be sure that you’re on time for work,” Richard continued. “Be productive, practice safety first and always follow orders given to you from your immediate supervisor. “Finally, look, listen and learn” he concluded. “Upgrade often and contribute to SPAD.” Cleto Lindong Lindong hails from the Philippines and signed on with the union in 2001. He sails out of the Port of Wilmington “This recertification program was very educational,” he told those in attendance. “It provided me with further insight into the inner workings of this great organization. I learned a great deal about how it is managed and run.” Lindong said his life as a seafarer started years ago when he was sailing aboard foreignflag vessels. “Had it not been for the SIU, I wouldn’t be standing before you today,” he said. “The union gave me the opportunity to improve and better myself through various training and upgrading courses here at the Paul Hall Center. “That enabled me to me get better jobs,” he continued. “Now I am here, proud and happy to have achieved my goal of graduating from this recertification program. “I consider you as a core part of the SIU,” Lindong told the trainees. “Study hard and learn as much as you can because in doing so you are laying a positive foundation for your future. Always keep a positive outlook on your job, pay attention to your mentors and learn to adapt and work together as a team.” Anthony Jacobson “The past three weeks have been an eyeopening experience for me,” said Jacobson, who is home-ported in Wilmington. He first donned the union colors in 1993. A native of Chicago, Jacobson told the audience that during their training, he and his classmates “were afforded the opportunity to see the inner workings of this great organization. I always knew that a number of things were done behind the scenes on behalf of the union membership, but I had no idea about the extent to which our leadership went to accom- Recertified Steward Sean Richard Recertified Steward Cleto Lindong plish them. “For example, I learned all about what our union officials and affiliated organizations such as the MTD do to help keep us all working,” he continued. “And that’s where our SPAD contributions come in.” He urged everyone to contribute to SPAD generously and often. Reflecting on his career, Jacobson said he sat in the PHC auditorium in 1993 as a trainee in Lifeboat Class 513. “That was my first union meeting and I never imagined that 20 years later I’d be up here on this stage receiving this honor,” he said. “I have been all over the world, worked on some really great ships and made quite a few friends over the years. “Learn all you can while you are here,” Jacobson told the trainees. “When you go out on the ships, keep an open mind and be teachable. Remember, a number of our brothers and sisters on the ships have been doing this for a long time; they just may know a thing or two about shipping and shipboard life, so take advantage of our knowledge and experience.” He ended his remarks by encouraging the trainees to come back to the school as often as they could to upgrade their skills. “This school has earned a place in my heart over the years,” he said. “Where else in the world could we get such an education at so little personal cost and then go out and use the skills we learned to make more money? “But it is not free,” he concluded. “It is our responsibility to go out there and represent the union and what it stands for by working hard and doing a good job.” John Greubel Greubel sails out of the Port of Jacksonville. Born in St. Louis, he has been a proud member of the SIU since 1999. After congratulating his fellow classmates for their accomplishments and wishing them well in their careers, Greubel told those present that completing his recertification training was a real honor and that he would always remember his graduation day. “In 1980 when I finished my three-year apprenticeship at St. Louis Community College, I decided to move to Las Vegas with my culinary degree and get a good job there, maybe work in a hotel/casino or a restaurant,” he said. “Well, I did this for 18 years, but could never save any money. “I finally got fed up with Las Vegas and a guy who worked for me told me that I could make some good money on oil rigs in the Gulf of Mexico,” he continued. “I tried it but didn’t like it much. It was a non-union job and they played a lot of favorites there.” Recertified Steward John Greubel Then one day Greubel noticed an ad for cruise ship jobs and decided to apply, mainly because it was located in Hawaii and he had never been there before. “After completing my mandatory training here at the school for getting the job, I left for the ship, did my required time and headed out to sea.” Greubel said he has returned to the PHC on three previous occasions to enhance his skills and “each time I have learned more and landed better jobs. They provided me with the skills I needed for these jobs, especially with computers,” he said. The recertification course continued the enhancement of his skills, he said. “It taught me more about how the union works, especially regarding contracts, shipping rules, the political process and the importance of SPAD. I also sharpened my leadership skills, gained a better understanding of our benefits, pension and 401K plans. I will carry all of this knowledge back to my ship and share it with all of my shipmates. Hopefully, I can answer their questions and help clear up any misconceptions they may have about how the union works.” Greubel encouraged the trainees to use the union’s pension and 401K plans or a combination of both to start saving. “You’ll be surprised how much you can save by just putting a small amount into it every week. Start early and you will have more than you need when it’s time to retire. “This union has done so much for me,” he concluded. “It’s not just about money and travel, but also about friendships and experiences that I will never forget.” Karl Meyer Philadelphia native Karl Meyer joined the SIU in 1993, but began sailing a year earlier aboard the cruise ship SS Independence. He currently sails out of the Port of Guam. “My first job was cleaning ash trays and emptying garbage cans,” he recalled. “From that time on, the sea and the SIU became an inseparable part of my life.” Meyer told members of the audience that in cooking, stewards use the term “Mise en place,” which means to put in place. “It’s not just about having your ingredients together before proceeding with a recipe; it’s about having your life together as well. These principles have guided me throughout my career.” Reflecting on his recertification training, Meyer said, “The last three weeks have opened my eyes once again. The program was very well rounded and included safety training, BST renewal, as well as sanitation and nutrition which is ever so important in our industry.” He said he especially enjoyed the tours to SIU Headquarters, the Maritime Trades Department and the AFL-CIO in Washington, D.C. “If you’re just going about your job while sailing the seas, you really don’t realize what’s going on behind the scenes,” he said. “This is why I came away from my training with a new appreciation of how the union works and how important it is for all of us to support our leadership. I learned what President (Mike) Sacco and other union officials do on a daily basis for us. “They work tirelessly on our behalf to protect our jobs, benefits and the American shipping industry as a whole,” he said. “That’s why it’s important now more than ever for everyone to support SPAD. Our donations give our leadership the capital they need to fight for our interests by educating and supporting our friends in Congress.” Addressing the trainees—especially those who are preparing to enter Phase II of their training—Meyer said, “You are the future of this industry. Keep your eyes and ears open, ask questions and learn from your shipmates.” Recertified Steward Karl Meyer Recertified Steward Anthony Jacobson May 2013 4/25/2013 3:25:26 PM �With Seafarers Aboard The Overseas Los Angeles Patrolman Nick Marrone II submitted these photos from an early-April servicing of OSG’s Overseas Los Angeles on the West Coast. Chief Cook Roberto Martinez, SA Hayel Omer, Chief Steward Oswald Stoiber Bosun Teodulfo Alanano, AB James Moore QEP Clarence Verdun, AB John Mensah, STOS Rodolfo Nuno GUDE Mohsin Mohamed Annual Funding Notice – MCS Supplementary Pension Plan Introduction This notice includes important funding information about your pension plan (“the Plan”). This notice also provides a summary of federal rules governing multiemployer plans in reorganization and insolvent plans and benefit payments guaranteed by the Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation (PBGC), a federal agency. This notice is for the plan year beginning January 1, 2012 and ending December 31, 2012 (referred to hereafter as “Plan Year”). Funded Percentage The funded percentage of a plan is a measure of how well that plan is funded. This percentage is obtained by dividing the Plan’s assets by its liabilities on the valuation date for the plan year. In general, the higher the percentage, the better funded the plan. The Plan’s funded percentage for the Plan Year and two preceding plan years is set forth in the chart below, along with a statement of the value of the Plan’s assets and liabilities for the same period. Valuation Date Funded Percentage Value of Assets 2012 January 1, 2012 155.24% $6,911,490 2011 January 1, 2011 153.87% $7,049,456 2010 January 1, 2010 142.91% $6,813,528 Value of Liabilities $4,452,173 $4,581,505 $4,767,618 Fair Market Value of Assets Asset values in the chart above are actuarial values, not market values. Market values tend to show a clearer picture of a plan’s funded status as of a given point in time. However, because market values can fluctuate daily based on factors in the marketplace, such as changes in the stock market, pension law allows plans to use actuarial values for funding purposes. While actuarial values fluctuate less than market values, they are estimates. As of December 31, 2012, the unaudited fair market value of the Plan’s assets was $6,806,499. As of December 31, 2011, the fair market value of the Plan’s assets was $6,791,092. As of December 31, 2010, the fair market value of the Plan’s assets was $7,049,456. The December 31, 2012 fair value of assets disclosed above is reported on an unaudited basis since this notice is required to be distributed before the normal completion time of the audit which is currently in progress. Participant Information The total number of participants in the plan as of the Plan’s valuation date was 795. Of this number, 250 were active participants, 429 were retired or separated from service and receiving benefits, and 116 were retired or separated from service and entitled to future benefits. Funding & Investment Policies The law requires that every pension plan have a procedure for establishing a funding policy to carry out the plan objectives. A funding policy relates to the level of contributions needed to pay for benefits promised under the plan currently and over the years. The funding policy of the Plan is to make contributions in accordance with the existing Collective Bargaining Agreement, but in no event less than the minimum amount annually as required by law. Once money is contributed to the Plan, the money is invested by plan officials called fiduciaries. Specific investments are made in accordance with the Plan’s investment policy. Generally speaking, an investment policy is a written statement that provides the fiduciaries who are responsible for plan investments with guidelines or general instructions concerning various types or categories of investment management decisions. The investment policy of the Plan is to provide a source of retirement income for its participants and beneficiaries while attaining an annual investment return of 6%. To preserve capital, some of the assets are invested in a general account with Connecticut General Life Insurance Company that pays a guaranteed rate of interest each year. Approximately 40% of the remainder of the Plan’s assets is invested in equity securities with the balance invested in fixed income securities. In accordance with the Plan’s investment policy, the Plan’s assets were allocated among the following categories of investments, as of the end of the Plan Year. These allocations are percentages of total assets: Asset Allocations 1. Interest-bearing cash 2. U.S. Government securities 3. Corporate debt instruments (other than employer securities): Preferred All other 4. Corporate stocks (other than employer securities): Preferred All other 5. Partnership/joint venture interests 6. Real estate (other than employer real property) 7. Loans (other than to participants) 8. Participant loans 9. Value of interest in common/collective trusts 10. Value of interest in pooled separate accounts 11. Value of interest in master trust investment accounts 12. Value of interest in 103-12 investment entities 13. Value of interest in registered investment companies (e.g., mutual funds) 14. Value of funds held in insurance co. general account (unallocated contracts) 15. Employer-related investments: Employer Securities Employer real property May 2013 15045_May_LOG.indd 9 Percentage 1.26 12.15 19.61 0 0 27.36 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 39.62 0 0 16. Buildings and other property used in plan operation 17. Other 0 0 Critical or Endangered Status Under federal pension law a plan generally will be considered to be in “endangered” status if, at the beginning of the plan year, the funded percentage of the plan is less than 80 percent or in “critical” status if the percentage is less than 65 percent (other factors may also apply). If a pension plan enters endangered status, the trustees of the plan are required to adopt a funding improvement plan. Similarly, if a pension plan enters critical status, the trustees of the plan are required to adopt a rehabilitation plan. Rehabilitation and funding improvement plans establish steps and benchmarks for pension plans to improve their funding status over a specified period of time. The Plan was not in endangered or critical status in the Plan Year. Right to Request a Copy of the Annual Report A pension plan is required to file with the U.S. Department of Labor an annual report (i.e., Form 5500) containing financial and other information about the plan. Copies of the annual report are available from the U.S. Department of Labor, Employee Benefits Security Administration’s Public Disclosure Room at 200 Constitution Avenue, NW, Room N-1513, Washington, DC 20210, or by calling 202.693.8673. Or, you may obtain a copy of the Plan’s annual report by making a written request to the plan administrator. Summary of Rules Governing Plans in Reorganization and Insolvent Plans Federal law has a number of special rules that apply to financially troubled multiemployer plans. Under so-called “plan reorganization rules,” a plan with adverse financial experience may need to increase required contributions and may, under certain circumstances, reduce benefits that are not eligible for the PBGC’s guarantee (generally, benefits that have been in effect for less than 60 months). If a plan is in reorganization status, it must provide notification that the plan is in reorganization status and that, if contributions are not increased, accrued benefits under the plan may be reduced or an excise tax may be imposed (or both). The law requires the plan to furnish this notification to each contributing employer and the labor organization. Despite the special plan reorganization rules, a plan in reorganization nevertheless could become insolvent. A plan is insolvent for a plan year if its available financial resources are not sufficient to pay benefits when due for the plan year. An insolvent plan must reduce benefit payments to the highest level that can be paid from the plan’s available financial resources. If such resources are not enough to pay benefits at a level specified by law (see Benefit Payments Guaranteed by the PBGC, below), the plan must apply to the PBGC for financial assistance. The PBGC, by law, will loan the plan the amount necessary to pay benefits at the guaranteed level. Reduced benefits may be restored if the plan’s financial condition improves. A plan that becomes insolvent must provide prompt notification of the insolvency to participants and beneficiaries, contributing employers, labor unions representing participants, and PBGC. In addition, participants and beneficiaries also must receive information regarding whether, and how, their benefits will be reduced or affected as a result of the insolvency, including loss of a lump sum option. This information will be provided for each year the plan is insolvent. Benefit Payments Guaranteed by the PBGC The maximum benefit that the PBGC guarantees is set by law. Only vested benefits are guaranteed. Specifically, the PBGC guarantees a monthly benefit payment equal to 100 percent of the first $11 of the Plan’s monthly benefit accrual rate, plus 75 percent of the next $33 of the accrual rate, times each year of credited service. The PBGC’s maximum guarantee, therefore, is $35.75 per month times a participant’s years of credited service. Example 1: If a participant with 10 years of credited service has an accrued monthly benefit of $500, the accrual rate for purposes of determining the PBGC guarantee would be determined by dividing the monthly benefit by the participant’s years of service ($500/10), which equals $50. The guaranteed amount for a $50 monthly accrual rate is equal to the sum of $11 plus $24.75 (.75 x $33), or $35.75. Thus, the participant’s guaranteed monthly benefit is $357.50 ($35.75 x 10). Example 2: If the participant in Example 1 has an accrued monthly benefit of $200, the accrual rate for purposes of determining the guarantee would be $20 (or $200/10). The guaranteed amount for a $20 monthly accrual rate is equal to the sum of $11 plus $6.75 (.75 x $9), or $17.75. Thus, the participant’s guaranteed monthly benefit would be $177.50 ($17.75 x 10). The PBGC guarantees pension benefits payable at normal retirement age and some early retirement benefits. In calculating a person’s monthly payment, the PBGC will disregard any benefit increases that were made under the plan within 60 months before the earlier of the plan’s termination or insolvency (or benefits that were in effect for less than 60 months at the time of termination or insolvency). Similarly, the PBGC does not guarantee pre-retirement death benefits to a spouse or beneficiary (e.g., a qualified pre-retirement survivor annuity) if the participant dies after the plan terminates, benefits above the normal retirement benefit, disability benefits not in pay status, or nonpension benefits, such as health insurance, life insurance, death benefits, vacation pay, or severance pay. Where to Get More Information For more information about this notice, you may contact the office of the Plan Administrator at: Margaret Bowen, Plan Administrator, 301-899-0675, or by writing to: Plan Administrator, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, Maryland 20746. For identification purposes, the official plan number is 001 and the plan sponsor’s employer identification number or “EIN” is 51-6097856. For more information about the PBGC and benefit guarantees, go to PBGC’s website, www.pbgc.gov, or call PBGC toll-free at 1-800-400-7242 (TTY/ TDD users may call the Federal relay service toll-free at 1-800-877-8339 and ask to be connected to 1-800-400-7242). Seafarers LOG 9 4/25/2013 4:11:22 PM �SHBP Offers COBRA Continuation Coverage to Union Members The Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan (SHBP) would like to notify you of the right to elect to purchase continuation of health coverage if you lose coverage, or experience a reduction in coverage due to certain qualifying events. This continuation of coverage is known as COBRA. Generally, if you are the employee, you will be eligible to purchase COBRA coverage for a certain period of time if you lost coverage because you did not have enough days of covered employment (unless the job was lost due to gross misconduct). If you are the family member of a covered employee, you may also elect COBRA for a certain period of time when the employee loses coverage; or if you are going to lose coverage because of a divorce or the death of the employee; or in the case of a child of an employee, the child reaches an age at which the Plan no longer considers him or her to be a “dependent child.” In the case of a divorce or the death of an employee, you must notify the Plan within 60 days of the divorce or death in order to be eligible to purchase continuation coverage. If you do not notify the Plan in a timely manner, you may not be eligible to receive further coverage. If you are the spouse or dependent child of an employee, you may also elect COBRA if you experience a reduction in coverage when the employee retires. When you retire, if you were eligible for benefits from the SHBP at the time of your retirement, you will be eligible to purchase COBRA continuation coverage for yourself and/or your family members, even if you are eligible for retiree health benefits. This will enable you and/or your family to continue to receive the same level of benefits that you had prior to your retirement for a certain period of time. If you meet the eligibility requirements for retiree health benefits, you will begin to receive those benefits when the COBRA period ends. For more information about continuation coverage rights under COBRA, please refer to the Plan’s “Guide to Your Benefits.” The guide is also available in PDF format on the SIU website, www.seafarers.org, under “Member Benefits-Seafarers Benefit Plans-Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan.” If you have questions regarding this notice or COBRA, contact the Plan at 1 (800) 252-4674. Annual Funding Notice – Seafarers Pension Plan Introduction This notice includes important information about the funding status of your pension plan (“the Plan”) and general information about the benefit payments guaranteed by the Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation (“PBGC”), a federal insurance agency. All traditional pension plans (called “defined benefit pension plans”) must provide this notice every year regardless of their funding status. This notice does not mean that the Plan is terminating. It is provided for informational purposes and you are not required to respond in any way. This notice is for the plan year beginning January 1, 2012 and ending December 31, 2012 (“Plan Year”). How Well Funded Is Your Plan Under federal law, the plan must report how well it is funded by using a measure called the “funded percentage.” This percentage is obtained by dividing the Plan’s assets by its liabilities on the Valuation Date for the plan year. In general, the higher the percentage, the better funded the plan. Your Plan’s funded percentage for the Plan Year and each of the two preceding plan years is set forth in the chart below, along with a statement of the value of the Plan’s assets and liabilities for the same period. Valuation Date Funded Percentage Value of Assets Value of Liabilities Funded Percentage 2012 2011 January 1, 2012 January 1, 2011 123.1% 121.2% $1,048,823,188 $1,013,288,083 $851,770,088 $836,014,907 2010 January 1, 2010 110.1% $910,293,605 $826,992,528 Year-End Fair Market Value of Assets The asset values in the chart above are measured as of the Valuation Date for the plan year and are market values. Because market values can fluctuate daily based on factors in the marketplace, such as changes in the stock market, pension law allows plans to use actuarial values that are designed to smooth out those fluctuations for funding purposes. The asset values below are market values and are measured as of the last day of the plan year, rather than as of the Valuation Date. Use of the market value of assets for the actuarial value used in the above chart shows a clearer picture of a plan’s funded status as of the Valuation Date. The fair market value of the Plan’s assets as of the last day of the Plan Year and each of the two preceding plan years is shown in the following table (final year is not audited): Fair Market Value of Assets December 31, 2012 $1,170,000,000 December 31, 2011 $1,048,823,188 December 31, 2010 $1,013,288,083 Critical or Endangered Status Under federal pension law a plan generally will be considered to be in “endangered” status if, at the beginning of the plan year, the funded percentage of the plan is less than 80 percent or in “critical” status if the percentage is less than 65 percent (other factors may also apply). If a pension plan enters endangered status, the trustees of the plan are required to adopt a funding improvement plan. Similarly, if a pension plan enters critical status, the trustees of the plan are required to adopt a rehabilitation plan. Rehabilitation and funding improvement plans establish steps and benchmarks for pension plans to improve their funding status over a specified period of time. The Plan was not in endangered or critical status in the Plan Year. Participant Information The total number of participants in the Plan as of the Plan’s valuation date was 20,533. Of this number, 7,795 were active participants, 8,377 were retired or separated from service and receiving benefits, and 4,361 were retired or separated from service and entitled to future benefits. Funding & Investment Policies (a) Every pension plan must have a procedure for establishing a funding policy to carry out plan objectives. A funding policy relates to the level of assets needed to pay for benefits promised under the plan currently and over the years. The funding policy of the Plan is to provide benefits from contributions by signatory employers under the terms of collective bargaining agreements between the Seafarers International Union of North America, Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters and the employers. The Plan may receive the portion of the employers’ contributions made to the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan which the Trustees determine is necessary to provide for pension benefits based on the recommendation of the Plan’s Actuary. (b) Investment Policies Investment objectives: Assets of the Plan shall be invested with sufficient diversification so as to minimize the risk of large losses unless it is clearly prudent under the then current circumstances not to do so. Plan assets shall be invested in a manner consistent with the fiduciary standards of ERISA and supporting regulations, and all transactions will be undertaken on behalf of the Plan in the sole interest of Plan participants and beneficiaries. Assets of the Plan shall be invested to maintain sufficient liquidity to meet benefit payment obligations and other Plan expenses. Investment Guidelines: With respect to any Investment Manager who is appointed by the Trustees to manage as Plan Asset Manager, such Plan Asset Manager will discharge its responsibilities with respect to the Plan’s assets in accordance with the fiduciary responsibilities under ERISA and all regulations thereunder and shall not violate any of ERISA’s “prohibited transaction” rules. The Plan Asset Manager shall be a bank (trust company), insurance company, or a registered investment advisor under the Investment Advisers Act of 1940. The Plan Asset Manager shall acknowledge in writing that it is a fiduciary of the Plan within the meaning of Section 3(21)(A) of ERISA and an “investment manager” within the meaning of Section 3(38) of ERISA. Asset Allocation: The Fund’s assets are invested in the following asset classes and maintained within the corresponding ranges. The Trustees make appropriate adjustments if one or more of the limits are breeched. Asset Class Domestic Equities Fixed Income Target 50% 50% Range 35% - 60% 40% - 65% Standards of Investment Performance: Each Investment Manager is reviewed regularly regarding performance, personnel, strategy, research capabilities, organizational and business matters and other qualitative factors that may affect its ability to achieve the desired investment results. Consideration will be given to the extent to which performance results are consistent with the goals and objectives set forth in the Investment Policy and/or individual guidelines provided to an Investment Manager. The Plan’s investment policy outlines prohibited investments as well as limits regarding the percentage of the fund that may be invested in any one company and industry. Minimum credit quality guidelines are established and provided to investment managers. No investment may be made which violates the provisions of ERISA or the Internal Revenue Code. The Trustees review the Plan’s investment policy on a regular basis and make periodic changes when based on all available information, it is prudent to do so. 10 Seafarers LOG 15045_May_LOG.indd 10 (c) Under the Plan’s investment policy, the Plan’s assets were allocated among the following categories of investments, as of the end of the Plan Year. These allocations are percentages of total assets: Asset Allocations 1. Cash (Interest-bearing and non-interest bearing) 2. U.S. Government securities 3. Corporate debt instruments (other than employer securities): Preferred All other 4. Corporate stocks (other than employer securities): Preferred Common 5. Partnership/joint venture interests 6. Real estate (other than employer real property) 7. Loans (other than to participants) 8. Participant loans 9. Value of interest in common/collective trusts 10. Value of interest in pooled separate accounts 11. Value of interest in master trust investment accounts 12. Value of interest in 103-12 investment entities 13. Value of interest in registered investment companies (e.g., mutual funds) 14. Value of funds held in insurance co. general account (unallocated contracts) 15. Employer-related investments: Employer Securities Employer real property 16. Buildings and other property used in plan operation 17. Other Percentage 1 22 26 0 0 26 0 1 0 0 6 0 0 0 18 0 0 0 0 0 (d) For information about the plan’s investment in any of the following type of investments as described in the chart above – common/collective trusts, pooled separate accounts, master trust investment accounts, or 10312 investment entities, contact: Margaret Bowen, Plan Administrator, at 301-899-0675, or by writing to: Plan Administrator, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, Maryland 20746 Right to Request a Copy of the Annual Report A pension plan is required to file with the US Department of Labor an annual report called the Form 5500 that contains financial and other information about the plan. Copies of the annual report are available from the US Department of Labor, Employee Benefits Security Administration’s Public Disclosure Room at 200 Constitution Avenue, NW, Room N-1513, Washington, DC 20210, or by calling 202.693.8673. For 2009 and subsequent plan years, you may obtain an electronic copy of the plan’s annual report by going to www.efast.dol.gov and using the Form 5500 search function. Or you may obtain a copy of the Plan’s annual report by making a written request to the plan administrator. Individual information, such as the amount of your accrued benefit under the plan, is not contained in the annual report. If you are seeking information regarding your benefits under the plan, contact the plan administrator identified below under “Where To Get More Information.” Summary of Rules Governing Plans in Reorganization and Insolvent Plans Federal law has a number of special rules that apply to financially troubled multiemployer plans. The plan administrator is required by law to include a summary of these rules in the annual funding notice. Under so-called “plan reorganization rules,” a plan with adverse financial experience may need to increase required contributions and may, under certain circumstances, reduce benefits that are not eligible for the PBGC’s guarantee (generally, benefits that have been in effect for less than 60 months). If a plan is in reorganization status, it must provide notification that the plan is in reorganization status and that, if contributions are not increased, accrued benefits under the plan may be reduced or an excise tax may be imposed (or both). The plan is required to furnish this notification to each contributing employer and the labor organization. Despite these special plan reorganization rules, a plan in reorganization could become insolvent. A plan is insolvent for a plan year if its available financial resources are not sufficient to pay benefits when due for that plan year. An insolvent plan must reduce benefit payments to the highest level that can be paid from the plan’s available resources. If such resources are not enough to pay benefits at the level specified by law (see “Benefit Payments Guaranteed by the PBGC”, below), the plan must apply to the PBGC for financial assistance. The PBGC will loan the plan the amount necessary to pay benefits at the guaranteed level. Reduced benefits may be restored if the plan’s financial condition improves. A plan that becomes insolvent must provide prompt notice of its status to participants and beneficiaries, contributing employers, labor unions representing participants, and PBGC. In addition, participants and beneficiaries also must receive information regarding whether, and how, their benefits will be reduced or affected, including loss of a lump sum option. This information will be provided for each year the plan is insolvent. Benefit Payments Guaranteed by the PBGC The maximum benefit that the PBGC guarantees is set by law. Only benefits that you have earned a right to receive and that cannot be forfeited (called vested benefits) are guaranteed. Specifically, the PBGC guarantees a monthly benefit payment equal to 100 percent of the first $11 of the Plan’s monthly benefit accrual rate, plus 75 percent of the next $33 of the accrual rate, times each year of credited service. The PBGC’s maximum guarantee, therefore, is $35.75 per month times a participant’s years of credited service. Example 1: If a participant with 10 years of credited service has an accrued monthly benefit of $500, the accrual rate for purposes of determining the PBGC guarantee would be determined by dividing the monthly benefit by the participant’s years of service ($500/10), which equals $50. The guaranteed amount for a $50 monthly accrual rate is equal to the sum of $11 plus $24.75 (.75 x $33), or $35.75. Thus, the participant’s guaranteed monthly benefit is $357.50 ($35.75 x 10). Example 2: If the participant in Example 1 has an accrued monthly benefit of $200, the accrual rate for purposes of determining the guarantee would be $20 (or $200/10). The guaranteed amount for a $20 monthly accrual rate is equal to the sum of $11 plus $6.75 (.75 x $9), or $17.75. Thus, the participant’s guaranteed monthly benefit would be $177.50 ($17.75 x 10). The PBGC guarantees pension benefits payable at normal retirement age and some early retirement benefits. In calculating a person’s monthly payment, the PBGC will disregard any benefit increases that were made under the plan within 60 months before the earlier of the plan’s termination or insolvency (or benefits that were in effect for less than 60 months at the time of termination or insolvency). Similarly, the PBGC does not guarantee pre-retirement death benefits to a spouse or beneficiary (e.g., a qualified pre-retirement survivor annuity) if the participant dies after the plan terminates, benefits above the normal retirement benefit, disability benefits not in pay status, or non-pension benefits, such as health insurance, life insurance, death benefits, vacation pay, or severance pay. Where to Get More Information For more information about this notice, or for a statement of your estimated monthly pension benefit payable at retirement, you may contact the Board of Trustees, or the Administrator, at 301-899-0675 or by writing to: Plan Administrator, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746 For identification purposes, the official plan number is 001 and the plan sponsor’s employer identification number or “EIN” is 13-6100329 for Seafarers Pension Plan. For more information about the PBGC, go to PBGC’s website, www.pbgc.gov. May 2013 4/25/2013 3:25:29 PM �A Souvenir Of Nazi Germany Editor’s note: Beginning in September 2010, the LOG regularly has featured articles by retired mariner Ed Woods, who first shipped out during World War II, as a teenager. Most of the earlier stories were run in two series, concluding in the September 2012 edition. A stand-alone article was published in the November 2012 LOG. Brother Woods recently submitted the following article. M y son Warren called me tonight. He is on the staff at the Historical New Orleans Collection (collections manager/exhibition coordinator). He is also the self-appointed family historian and a dedicated collector of memorabilia. He asked me to put in writing whatever information I could remember about a Nazi flag that I had brought home from Germany in 1946. It is now in his possession after being stored away with some other souvenirs for the past 67 years. I first went to Germany as a merchant seaman in October 1945, a short time after it had surrendered to the Allied Forces. Hostilities had ended the previous August 15, 1945. World War II, however, was not scheduled to officially end until the last day of the year, December 31, 1946. The fighting may have been over but it was still not a pleasant time to be in Germany. The country was under martial law, so the citizens and the occupying personnel were subject to many restrictions imposed by the military government. For one, there was no fraternizing. A heavy fine was levied on anyone found socializing with the former enemy. In addition to this, the people were living just a little above the starvation level. For the latter reason, a “black market” existed. The Germans wanted food and cigarettes, and they were willing to part with their family heirlooms and other prized possessions to obtain these scarce items. When I say black market, I don’t mean any big money-making scheme. The Americans wanted souvenirs and the Germans wanted food and cigarettes. It was simply a matter of trading. No money changed hands. I heard there were some big-time “black market operators” in Germany at that time. However, I never knew or met any of them. I was working on an U.S. Army Transport, the General W.P. Richardson. We carried troops back and forth between New York City and Bremerhaven. I don’t recall staying more than a week in either port. I had no food to barter, but I did have cigarettes. Trading with cigarettes was also against the military laws of occupation. However, the law was seldom if ever enforced inside the fenced-in port area. Access to the road leading into the city of Bremerhaven was limited to two gates, one for the occupying forces and the other for the Germans workers. When passing through the gates, everyone was searched for contraband. We were only allowed to take two packs of cigarettes ashore with us each day. Anything more was immediately confiscated by the military guards on duty. We soon discovered we could do more and better trading inside the fenced-in sector. The German work- May 2013 15045_May_LOG_X.indd 11 ers seemed able to carry anything they wanted in and out of the gated port area. Bremerhaven was and still is an important European seaport. Inside the enclosed sector were huge cranes for moving and lifting machinery, some of the biggest dry docks in Europe, miles of docking space, extensive repair shops, and close by to all of this were submarine pens. German U-boats were there and I wanted to see them. I had sailed on oil tankers for over a year during the war and the very thought of these undersea monsters had often kept me awake at night. Memories of attempting to sleep in my bunk while in convoys crossing the Atlantic and Pacific oceans were still with me. I would never forget being awakened by the noise of the horns and whistles of our naval escorts as they chased after an echo or a sighting picked up with their sophisticated locating devices. You don’t get much sleep when you are aboard an oil tanker full of high-octane aviation gasoline and there’s a possibility of a German U-boat in the area getting ready to send your ship closer look at my former adversary. I was with a buddy, a shipmate who was as anxious as I was to see the forbidden area. There was no sign of any guards, only a few German workers in the area who didn’t seem to take any notice of us. I had seen pictures of German U-boats but I had never seen one up close. There were about five or six of them tied together in a row alongside a pier. My first thoughts as I looked at them were of their size. They seemed small and not seaworthy. I asked myself, were these cigar-shaped pieces of metal really the underwater weapons of war that caused so much havoc and death in what Winston Churchill called the Battle of the Atlantic? A German sailor, who appeared to be in charge of the U-boats, greeted us. Following an exchange of words and an offer of a cigarette, he agreed to give us a tour of a boat. Later, as we were climbing out of the hatch, he asked if I was interested in any souvenirs. He then brought out a German Nazi swastika flag. I made every attempt to conceal my excitement in a desperate desire to keep the expected high price down. I wanted this Nazi flag. He wanted two cartons of cigarettes – an unheard-of sum! A carton of cigarettes in town and out of the port area would buy the whole submarine. I was not to be deterred. I convinced him to agree to one carton of cigarettes, which I didn’t have with me. The German sailor, however, promised to hold Ed Woods down to Davy Jones’ Locker and you with it. Signs both in German and English were at the entrance to the submarine pens warning all unauthorized personnel to keep out. There is something very ominous about the German word “Verboten”. It seems to mean so much more in German than it does in English. However, whether one could read German or not, it was quite clear the area was offlimits and sightseers were not welcome. I was 18 years old. I had sailed through mine- and submarine-infested waters during the war. I was not about to let a few signs stop me from getting a this hated but much-desired symbol of the Third Reich until my return that afternoon with the cigarettes. Fortunately, my ship and the U-boat pens were inside the fenced-in port area. Therefore, I could expect to go back and forth between the two sites without any interference. On the walk back to our ship, my buddy reminded me to be aware of counterfeit souvenirs. We had heard that once the Germans learned they could trade wartime souvenirs with the Americans for food and cigarettes, they began to manufacture flags, medals and parts of German military uniforms. A lot of the manufactured items were obviously bogus and were turned down. The ever-ingenious German, however, would explain, “Yes, these goods do not appear to be genuine but with good reason. They were made during the height of the war when material was in short supply – nothing was wasted.” “I was 18 years old. I had sailed through mine- and submarine-infested waters during the war. I was not about to let a few signs stop me from getting a closer look at my former adversary.” - - - Ed Woods My buddy and I had sailed in the Pacific Ocean during the war and we could recall the many Japanese flags offered for sale or trade by the U.S. Navy Seabees. Some friendly Seabees admitted to us that they had made the flags right there in their camp. They were able to do a most profitable business with U.S. Army Air Corps personnel when they stopped on the island. One flag could be worth a bottle of scotch whiskey or a whole bunch of American money. They showed us how they added a look of authenticity to their bogus product by burring holes in it and rubbing it in the dirt. They would tell the potential buyers the flag had been taken from a nearby Japanese fort following a fierce and bloody battle. When I returned to the U-boat with the carton of cigarettes, I gave the flag a good going over and decided it was genuine. I now owned a souvenir swastika flag from the German Nazi era. For a very good reason, I will always recall the day I bought the flag. On the way back to our ship, after making the trade, we had to pass within a few hundred feet of the gate used by the German port workers. It was manned by a combination of German police officers and United States Navy personnel. One of the Navy enlisted men at the gate called out to us. We didn’t know what he was saying and decided to ignore him. We were out of the restricted area and felt free to walk about without interference from the guards. I also did not want to get involved with any of the military since I was carrying a Nazi flag under my jacket. The two of us felt completely within our rights to continue walking. However, we stopped walking and turned around very quickly when we heard two shots fired and realized they had been aimed in our direction. We saw it was one of the Navy enlisted men who had fired the shots and who was now ordering us to come closer. As we began to walk toward him a number of other U.S. Navy enlisted men rushed out of the guardhouse and shouted at the man who had fired his gun. They called him all sort of foul names including stupid and asked if he wanted to get all of them courtmartialed. They told him we were obviously Americans and his actions were completely uncalled for. For once in my young life, I was speechless. I had just been fired at and I was carrying a Nazi flag. I was in no position to argue with anybody. One of the enlisted men, a petty officer, apologized for the gun shots, and asked if we would please forget the entire incident. We readily agreed and, still quite shaken, continued on our walk. As we left the gate, we heard the petty officer tell the guard that he was relieved of duty and to report to him inside the guardhouse.---Ed Woods Seafarers LOG 11 4/26/2013 3:10:57 PM �Lakes vessels including the SIU-crewed H. Lee White play a key role in the nation’s economy. Bosun Amin Quraish, GUDE Rajeh Ahmed Sam Laud Bosun Jeffery Eckhart Great Republic Great Lakes Fit-Out 2013 AB Foaad Saleh H. Lee White GUDE Ali Alwaqedi Sam Laud Seafarers Help Keep America’s Economy Moving QE4 Ali Musa Great Republic QE4 Adrian Schubert H. Lee White The 2013 Great Lakes shipping season began in early March, and SIU members were among the first to kick off the year. Over the next several weeks, more than 50 American-flag lakers – many with SIU crews – returned to service for another 10-month stint hauling the raw materials that are the foundation of the industrial heartland: primarily iron ore, limestone and coal. According to the Lake Carriers’ Association (LCA), the U.S.flag Great Lakes fleet “is unique in the world in that virtually every vessel is a self-unloader, which means the ship or barge can discharge cargo without any assistance from shore-side personnel or equipment. The largest vessels can unload 70,000 tons of cargo in 12 hours or less. Prior to self-unloading, it would have taken days to empty a vessel of a cargo that size. “The self-unloading vessel was invented and perfected on the Great Lakes and is one reason waterborne commerce on the inland seas is so efficient. A recent study by the U.S. Maritime Administration states that on average, transportation cost savings from $10 to more than $20 per ton are associated with the use of lakers compared to the next most competitive transportation mode. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers estimates that Great Lakes shipping annually saves its customers $3.6 billion compared to the next least costly mode of transportation.” U.S.-flag lakers are built in the United States, crewed by American citizens and owned by American corporations. This holds the vessels and crews to the world’s highest safety and operational standards. The LCA, whose members include several SIU-contracted companies, further points out, “The environment benefits when the Lakes fleet returns to service. Vessels use less fuel to move a ton of cargo than trains or trucks and produce significantly fewer emissions in the process. A number of lakers have been repowered in recent years with state-of-the-art engines and generators that have further reduced the industry’s carbon footprint. “Iron ore for steel production is the primary cargo moved by U.S.-flag lakers. In 2012, the fleet moved more than 45 million tons of taconite pellets. Limestone for the construction industry and steelmaking approached 22 million tons. Coal for power generation totaled more than 17 million tons. Other cargos included cement, salt, sand and grain and collectively totaled 5 million tons.” Thanks to SIU Algonac Patrolman Don Thornton for the crew member photos on these two pages, taken aboard American Steamship’s Sam Laud and H. Lee White and on Key Lakes’ Great Republic Pictured above are 2nd Cook David Warner (left) from the Great Republic and Chief Cook Terri Sales of the Sam Laud. In the large group photo, members gather aboard the Great Republic. GUDE Janah Ahmed is in the near foreground, with QMED Abdullah Alamri near his left shoulder. Also pictured, left to right starting at far left, are AB Ali Al dhahi, QE4 Ali Musa, QE4 Allen Ludlow, AB Lawrence Cormier, Bosun Jeffery Eckhart, GUDE Hussein Jinah, AB Salahuddin Saleh, AB Ali Ali and GUDE Muafa Musad. 12 Seafarers LOG 15045_May_LOG.indd 12-13 May 2013 May 2013 Pictured abover are GUDES Haidarah Ahmed (left) and Ahmed Ganah. In the photo at left are AB Raymond Hotchkiss (front) and Bosun William Mulcahy. All four Seafarers work aboard the H. Lee White. The Sam Laud is part of American Steamship Company’s fleet. Seafarers LOG 13 4/25/2013 3:56:54 PM �Save 15%* on SIU Members Call, Text and Tweet for Less! wireless costs while supporting union workers. Take the coupon below with you to the nearest AT&T store to take advantage of the Union Plus AT&T Discount for SIU members. You’ll also be supporting union workers and their families. AT&T is the only nationwide unionized wireless carrier (over 40,000 union-represented employees!). Discount Coupon 15 % on wireless serDISCOUNT vices from AT&T Two ways to start saving on AT&T calling and data plans: 1. Online 2. Visit an AT&T store Visit UnionPlus.org/ATT Take this coupon and a union ID to your local AT&T store and tell them you’d like your 15% Union Plus discount. *Credit approval and new two-year service agreement required. Offer cannot be combined with any other discounts. The 15% Union Plus AT&T wireless discount is not available on the iPad, additional lines for family plans, unlimited plans and Unity plans. Data services: Only the 5GB data plan and the shared minutes and data for AT&T Mobile share plans are discounted. All other individual data plans, data plans on secondary lines, and text plans are not discounted. Other conditions and restrictions apply. Offer available to union members, retired union members, and Union Plus Credit Card holders only. For more information, visit UnionPlus.org/ATT. AT&T is a registered trademark of AT&T Intellectual property. Union Plus is a registered trademark of Union Privilege. AT&T Retailer: The Union Member FAN# is 3508840 5/13 SIU-ATT-03/13 14 Seafarers LOG 15045_May_LOG.indd 14 May 2013 4/25/2013 3:25:40 PM �3 Log-A-Rhythms Lest We Forget Author Unknown Sometimes when the bands are playing And the uniforms march by You will find a seaman watching With a wistful-looking eye And you know just what he’s thinking As he hears the cheering crowd As the soldiers and the sailors Swing along, erect and proud He is thinking that his country Saves its honor once again For the uniforms, forgetting All the seas’ forgotten men He is thinking of the armies And the food and fighting tanks That for every safe arrival To the seamen owe their thanks He is thinking of those buddies Who have paid the final score Not in khaki or in the Navy But the working clothes they wore And we’d like to tell him something That we think he may not know A reminder he can stow away Wherever he may go All your countrymen are proud of you And though there’s no brass band Not a bugle or a banner When the merchant seamen land We know just the job you’re So be sure to keep your chin up When the uniforms parade What a man wears doesn’t matter It’s the stuff of which he’s made My Heart Belongs to the Sea By R.G. Haller, H13915 Long ago I was a seaman I sailed the seven seas I knew the bars in Subic Bay The coastline of Pusan I knew well the sting of salt spray The taste of Spanish wine The beauty of the Orient Yes, these were things of mine But I wear a different hat now No tie and jacket too My sailing days were long ago With that life I am through But somewhere deep inside me The sailor lives there too He longs to go to sea again But knows he never will My love, my life, at home And I will leave here never Though mind and body stay ashore My heart is at sea forevermore Personals Penny Albert Jersey would love to hear from her childhood friend, Bosun Steven Kastel. Jersey hopes all is well with Bosun Kastel and wants him to contact her at 530-823-8110. Retired Seafarer Matt Carroll would like to hear from other retired or active mariners in the El Paso, Texas, area. Matt may be reached at: 1011 N. St. Vrain Street, El Paso, TX 79902. June & July 2013 Membership Meetings Piney Point.............................................Monday: June 3, July 8 Algonac...................................................Friday: June 7, July 12 Baltimore..............................................Thursday: June 6, July 11 Guam.............................................Thursday: June 20, July 25 Honolulu...............................................Friday: June 14, July 19 Houston...............................................Monday: June 10, July 15 Jacksonville.......................................Thursday: June 6, July 11 Joliet................................................Thursday: June 13, July 18 Mobile..........................................Wednesday: June 12, July 17 New Orleans...........................................Tuesday: June 11, July16 New York.......................................Tuesday: June 4, July 9 Norfolk...............................................Thursday: June 6, July 11 Oakland...........................................Thursday: June 13, July 18 Philadelphia...................................Wednesday: June 5, July 10 Port Everglades................................Thursday: June 13, July 18 San Juan..............................................Thursday: June 6, July 11 St. Louis.................................................Friday: June 14, July 19 Tacoma..................................................Friday: June 21, July 26 Wilmington..............................................Monday: June 17, July 22 Each port’s meeting starts at 10:30 a.m. May 2013 15045_May_LOG.indd 15 Dispatchers’ Report for Deep Sea doing In your worn-out work clothes On the seas where death is lurking And a fellow’s courage shows March 16, 2013 - April 15, 2013 Port Total Registered All Groups A B C Total Shipped All Groups A B Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS 7 0 7 14 3 12 48 28 1 12 8 32 13 19 1 1 5 33 4 33 281 5 1 4 12 1 1 16 17 6 2 2 14 18 9 6 3 4 9 2 22 154 1 2 1 4 0 0 3 4 0 1 1 2 7 1 0 0 2 2 1 2 34 Deck Department 15 4 0 2 3 2 14 7 4 3 4 4 26 10 18 6 5 3 5 3 5 3 31 17 7 10 10 3 5 5 1 1 4 6 26 5 3 0 25 9 211 103 1 0 1 1 0 0 1 4 0 0 2 0 3 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 14 0 1 2 7 0 2 16 7 1 1 3 21 3 6 3 0 3 9 1 13 99 12 3 7 22 4 27 85 71 1 18 20 70 29 45 7 0 12 57 4 72 566 10 2 6 17 3 6 25 43 7 5 3 31 48 14 4 4 13 27 4 38 310 2 3 1 7 2 0 5 2 3 1 3 5 12 3 1 0 3 4 2 6 65 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS 1 1 3 7 0 7 16 15 1 8 3 17 10 9 1 2 0 6 2 6 115 1 0 4 6 0 6 13 28 6 3 3 10 12 9 4 2 3 7 1 16 134 2 0 5 0 0 2 0 3 1 1 0 1 6 1 4 0 0 2 1 3 32 Engine Department 4 3 1 0 0 2 6 0 1 1 4 1 13 3 17 13 1 2 1 0 1 2 10 9 7 13 6 4 2 3 2 0 1 1 11 2 0 0 9 9 97 68 0 0 4 1 0 0 0 2 0 0 0 0 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 9 0 0 0 4 0 2 6 8 0 1 1 8 1 4 1 0 0 5 0 4 45 0 0 5 12 0 27 27 42 0 12 5 31 20 14 6 1 4 25 4 22 257 5 1 5 11 0 12 21 30 4 3 2 17 26 14 3 2 14 18 1 33 222 4 0 3 2 0 2 2 6 1 1 0 3 4 3 4 0 1 3 1 7 47 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS 0 0 0 7 2 10 19 10 1 2 3 16 10 5 3 3 3 15 3 23 135 0 0 3 2 0 2 6 9 3 1 1 7 9 4 1 0 3 4 0 1 56 Steward Department 0 3 1 0 0 0 0 1 1 3 9 1 1 1 0 0 12 1 3 9 5 0 7 9 1 2 2 1 3 0 1 3 0 0 13 4 3 3 5 1 7 0 0 0 0 1 1 0 1 1 1 0 10 3 0 1 0 4 16 0 20 102 33 0 0 0 2 0 0 1 1 0 1 0 0 2 0 0 1 0 0 0 1 9 0 0 1 7 0 4 5 5 0 0 3 2 1 3 0 0 0 2 0 5 38 5 0 7 15 3 19 33 35 1 7 6 30 19 22 5 4 4 29 5 51 300 1 1 2 6 2 5 9 12 1 3 2 14 16 7 1 2 4 7 1 7 103 0 0 0 3 1 0 2 1 2 3 0 0 2 1 1 0 1 2 0 4 23 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS 2 0 1 1 0 1 3 4 0 0 0 2 1 2 0 0 0 5 0 2 24 6 0 1 6 0 7 8 4 1 3 0 16 14 11 2 4 0 9 0 19 111 8 0 2 3 0 4 5 8 2 2 4 16 9 5 2 1 1 1 0 8 81 0 0 1 0 0 4 2 7 1 0 1 8 5 1 1 1 0 2 0 4 38 0 0 0 0 0 0 3 0 0 0 1 2 0 1 0 1 0 1 0 4 13 2 0 1 1 0 4 7 5 1 1 3 5 2 6 1 0 0 17 0 5 61 12 2 1 11 0 14 17 16 0 1 3 41 26 21 2 4 0 14 0 39 224 18 0 1 7 0 13 10 25 4 3 5 35 41 13 2 1 4 14 0 34 230 GRAND TOTAL: 555 455 167 70 195 1,184 859 365 Entry Department 2 1 0 0 0 1 0 2 0 0 1 2 2 8 2 4 0 2 0 2 0 2 3 15 0 9 2 5 0 1 0 2 1 0 5 5 0 1 3 8 21 70 431 274 C Trip Reliefs Registered on Beach All Groups A B C Seafarers LOG 15 4/25/2013 3:25:41 PM �Inquiring Seafarer Seafarers International Union Directory Michael Sacco, President Augustin Tellez, Executive Vice President David Heindel, Secretary-Treasurer George Tricker, Vice President Contracts Tom Orzechowski, Vice President Lakes and Inland Waters Dean Corgey, Vice President Gulf Coast Nicholas J. Marrone, Vice President West Coast Joseph T. Soresi, Vice President Atlantic Coast Kermett Mangram, Vice President Government Services Editor’s note:This month’s question was asked of members at the union hall in Wilmington, Calif. Question: If you could speak to a member of Congress, what would you tell him or her about your job? HEADQUARTERS 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746 (301) 899-0675 ALGONAC 520 St. Clair River Dr., Algonac, MI 48001 (810) 794-4988 ANCHORAGE 721 Sesame St., #1C, Anchorage, AK 99503 (907) 561-4988 BALTIMORE 2315 Essex St., Baltimore, MD 21224 (410) 327-4900 GUAM P.O. Box 3328, Hagatna, Guam 96932 Cliffline Office Ctr. Bldg., Suite 103B 422 West O’Brien Dr., Hagatna, Guam 96910 (671) 477-1350 HONOLULU 606 Kalihi St., Honolulu, HI 96819 (808) 845-5222 Louis Nicoud Recertified Steward The career we’ve chosen is a vital link to international commerce. We are a vital part of the security of the country. We take vital cargo to where it is needed. We are welltrained and the fourth arm of defense. Steve Bowmer Chief Cook Protect it. Protect the Jones Act. Without the Jones Act, all U.S. trade would disappear. Then anybody from around the world could transport our goods around America. We need to protect all forms of domestic transportation. Jervona Vorise Electrician It is exciting and fun. You get to travel to a lot of places, visit different cultures and see how other people live. Hussein Mohamed Bosun Rezk Mohamed DEU I’m a sailor. I’m happy to be a member of the SIU. This has been a good life. Give us (opportunities for) more jobs. I am happy with the SIU. Keep us working. Pics-From-The-Past HOUSTON 1221 Pierce St., Houston, TX 77002 (713) 659-5152 JACKSONVILLE 5100 Belfort Rd., Jacksonville, FL 32256 (904) 281-2622 JOLIET 10 East Clinton St., Joliet, IL 60432 (815) 723-8002 MOBILE 1640 Dauphin Island Pkwy, Mobile, AL 36605 (251) 478-0916 NEW ORLEANS 3911 Lapalco Blvd., Harvey, LA 70058 (504) 328-7545 NEW YORK 635 Fourth Ave., Brooklyn, NY 11232 (718) 499-6600 Government Services Division: (718) 499-6600 NORFOLK 115 Third St., Norfolk, VA 23510 (757) 622-1892 OAKLAND 1121 7th St., Oakland, CA 94607 (510) 444-2360 PHILADELPHIA 2604 S. 4 St., Philadelphia, PA 19148 (215) 336-3818 PINEY POINT P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674 (301) 994-0010 PORT EVERGLADES 1221 S. Andrews Ave., Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33316 (954) 522-7984 SANTURCE 1057 Fernandez Juncos Ave., Stop 16 Santurce, PR 00907 (787) 721-4033 ST. LOUIS/ALTON 4581 Gravois Ave., St. Louis, MO 63116 (314) 752-6500 TACOMA 3411 South Union Ave., Tacoma, WA 98409 (253) 272-7774 WILMINGTON 510 N. Broad Ave., Wilmington, CA 90744 (310) 549-4000 Retired QMED/Electrician Jose A. Vazquez (back row, far left) submitted this photo of his welding class from 1974. It was taken at the union-affiliated Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship in Piney Point, Md. The other pic is an undated file photo, believed to be from the late 1960s, showing the training boats Simmons and Zimmerman, also at Piney Point. If anyone has a vintage union-related photograph he or she would like to share with other Seafarers LOG readers, please send it to the Seafarers LOG, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. Photographs will be returned, if so requested. High-resolution digital images may be sent to webmaster@seafarers.org 16 Seafarers LOG 15045_May_LOG_X.indd 16 May 2013 4/26/2013 3:11:02 PM �Welcome Ashore Each month, the Seafarers LOG pays tribute to the SIU members who have devoted their working lives to sailing aboard U.S.-flag vessels on the deep seas, inland waterways or Great Lakes. Listed below are brief biographical sketches of those members who recently retired from the union. The brothers and sisters of the SIU thank those members for a job well done and wish them happiness and good health in the days ahead. DEEP SEA CRAIG AMISON Brother Craig Amison, 65, became an SIU member in 1967. He initially worked with Valentine Chemical Carriers. Brother Amison was born in Beckley, W.Va. He attended classes in 1967 and 2001 at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. Brother Amison sailed in the deck department. His most recent trip to sea was aboard the Prestige New York. Brother Amison makes his home in Harrisonburg, Va. EARL BOSTROM Brother Earl Bostrom, 65, started sailing with the Seafarers in 1995. He was originally employed with Bay Ship Management. Brother Bostrom was a deck department member. In 2001, he upgraded at the SIUaffiliated school. Brother Bostrom’s last ship was the Achiever. He is a resident of Fort Lauderdale, Fla. DELFINO CASTRO Brother Delfino Castro, 67, joined the union in 1995 in the port of New York. The steward department member was born in the Honduras. Brother Castro first sailed on the Independence. He upgraded frequently at the Piney Point school. Brother Castro most recently shipped aboard the Chemical Pioneer. He calls Houston home. EDWARD ELLIS Brother Edward Ellis, 56, joined the SIU ranks in 1978. His first ship was the Leader; his most recent, the Sgt. William R. Button. Brother Ellis worked in the steward department. On three occasions, he took advantage of educational opportunities available at the union-affiliated school in Maryland. Brother Ellis continues to reside in his native state, Alabama. HYDEN ELWIN Brother Hyden Elwin, 65, was born in Honduras. He began sailing with the union in 1968. Brother Elwin’s first ship was the Steel Flyer; his last was the Overseas Arctic. The engine department member lives in Petal, Miss. TIMOTHY FITZGERALD Brother Timothy Fitzgerald, 62, signed on with the SIU in 1978 May 2013 15045_May_LOG.indd 17 while in St. Louis. The Kansas City-born mariner initially shipped on the Erna Elizabeth as a member of the deck department. Brother Fitzgerald enhanced his skills often at the Paul Hall Center. He concluded his career aboard the Freedom. Brother Fitzgerald settled in Tacoma, Wash. PETER FULCHER Brother Peter Fulcher, 66, donned the SIU colors in 1991. He first sailed aboard the USNS Vindicator. Brother Fulcher shipped in the deck department. In 1996, 2008 and 2010, he upgraded at the maritime training center in Piney Point, Md. Brother Fulcher’s most recent trip was on the USNS Impeccable. He resides in Williston, N.C. ALBERT GUTIERREZ Brother Albert Gutierrez, 61, began sailing with the union in 1978 while in New York. He initially shipped aboard the Borinquen. Brother Gutierrez sailed in the engine department. He attended classes on numerous occasions at the SIU-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. Brother Gutierrez most recently sailed on the Horizon Challenger. He is a resident of Houston. worked in the deck department. He most recently shipped on the Prestige New York. Brother Mortiz lives in Jacksonville, Fla. ANDREA NUNEZ Sister Andrea Nunez, 66, started shipping with the union in 2000. She sailed aboard vessels including the Richard G. Matthieson and the Rhode Island. Sister Nunez was a steward department member. She upgraded in 2000 and 2002 at the Piney Point school. Sister Nunez resides in Bronx, N.Y. WILLIAM PARKER Brother William Parker, 65, signed on with the Seafarers in 1966. His first voyage was aboard the Steel Flyer. Brother Parker was an engine department member. He enhanced his skills frequently at the unionaffiliated school in Piney Point, Md. Brother Parker’s most recent ship was the 2nd Lt. John Paul Bobo. He makes his home in Chesapeake, Va. JUAN RIVAS Brother Juan Rivas, 56, was born in Honduras. He became an SIU member in 1970, initially sailing on a Michigan Tankers vessel. Brother Rivas worked in the deck department, most recently aboard the Liberty Eagle. He upgraded often at the Piney Point school. Brother Rivas lives in Highlands, Texas. EDWARD SELF Brother Edward Self, 65, first donned the SIU colors in 1965. His earliest trip was with Manhattan Tanker Corporation. Brother Self was born in Germany and sailed in the engine department. He attended classes often at the Seafarersaffiliated school. Brother Self last shipped on the Overseas Houston. He calls Franklin, La., home. DAVID WEST Brother David West, 65, began his seafaring career in 1972. He was originally employed aboard the Ft. Hoskins. Brother West worked in the steward department. He upgraded on two occasions at the Paul Hall Center. Brother West’s final trip was on the President Jackson. He lives in Lake Charles, La. sailed on the Producer. Brother Whitaker enhanced his skills often at the Piney Point school. He is a resident of Rocky Mount, Va. GREAT LAKES DAVID BEAUDRE Brother David Beaudre, 65, became an SIU member in 1966 while in Detroit. He was employed with American Steamship Company for the duration on his career. Brother Beaudre shipped in the deck department. He resides in Manistique, Mich. NATIONAL MARITIME UNION AL WALTERS Brother Al Walters, 58, sailed with the NMU prior to the 2001 merger with the Seafarers International Union. Brother Walters calls Newport News, Va., home. SIDNEY WHITAKER Brother Sidney Whitaker, 65, joined the SIU ranks in 1988. He sailed in the deck department. Brother Whitaker originally shipped aboard the USNS Harkness. He most recently JOHN LEVASSEUR Brother John Levasseur, 65, joined the Seafarers in 1969. The deck department member enhanced his skills frequently at the Piney Point school. Brother Levasseur’s most recent ship was the USNS Yano. He makes his home in Maryland. DONALD LUCAS Brother Donald Lucas, 70, became an SIU member in 1975. He initially worked in the inland division with Dixie Carriers. Brother Lucas was born in Maryland. He attended classes in 1980 at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Lucas sailed in the deck department. His most recent trip to sea was aboard the Sgt. John Chapman. Brother Lucas calls Smithsburg, Md., home. JEFFERY MORITZ Brother Jeffery Moritz, 57, joined the union in 1977. His earliest trip was aboard the Capricorn. Brother Moritz This Month In SIU History Editor’s note: The following items are reprinted from previous editions of the Seafarers LOG. 1942 This week there was signed in Washington a “Statement of Policy” which bound the War Shipping Administration (WSA) to the recognition of the collective bargaining rights and contracts of maritime labor for the duration of the war. Thus was defeated the union-busting drive which burst into full fury when the WSA requisitioned the entire merchant fleet on April 11. The fighting response of the unlicensed unions forced the abandonment of the WSA’s anti-union rules and the board’s capitulation to the union demands that existing contracts between labor and shipowners be underwritten by the government for the duration of the war. 1944 Two members of the SIU who gave their lives during the war that others might live, are to be honored by having ships named for them, the Merchant Commission announced, while praising their heroism in high tribute. The vessels are to be launched Maritime Day, May 22, in connection with the observance of ceremonies for those who have given their lives at sea while plying war-torn and submarine-infested waters. The launching ceremonies will include the presentation of the Merchant Marine Distinguished Service Medal to the nearest of kin. 1964 The SIU-contracted Ames Victory rescued five persons from Chesapeake Bay recently when a $150,000 yacht on her maiden voyage burned to the waterline. The rescue of the survivors took less than 30 minutes from the lowering of the lifeboat to the time it was hoisted up again, crewmembers told the LOG. During the rescue operation the Seafarer-manned lifeboat was constantly in danger when the blazing yacht, with no one at the helm, kept circling around the lifeboat and survivors. Meanwhile, the lifeboat crewmembers feared the yacht might blow sky-high at any minute. 1975 Ending nearly 72 hours of uncertain captivity by the new Communist Cambodian regime, the entire 39-man crew, 28 of them SIU members, of the seized containership, Mayaguez, was safely rescued May 14 by the naval destroyer USS Wilson shortly after military action was carried out by combined U.S. Marine and Air Force units against the Cambodians. Latest reports say that five U.S. Marines were killed, 13 are missing and 80 wounded during the military assaults. The Mayaguez was en route from Hong Kong to Thailand when it was seized in international waters off the coast of Cambodia. President Gerald Ford immediately denounced the vessel’s seizure as “an act of piracy,” and demanded the release of the ship. He added, “Failure to do so would have the most serious consequences.” Seafarers LOG 17 4/25/2013 3:25:48 PM �Final Departures DEEP SEA PAUL BABBIN Pensioner Paul Babbin, 75, passed away Nov. 17. Brother Babbin signed on with the SIU in 1962. His earliest trip was with Trans Western Associates. Brother Babbin was born in Boston. He was a member of the engine department. Brother Babbin most recently shipped aboard the Mayaguez. He retired in 2000 and called Jacksonville, Fla., home. GEORGE CALLARD JR Pensioner George Callard Jr., 75, died Nov. 5. He was born in Maryland. Brother Callard joined the union in 1960 while in New York. He initially sailed with Interocean American Shipping Corporation. The deck department member last sailed on the Franklin J. Phillips. Brother Callard went on pension in 2002. He was a resident of San Jose, Costa Rica. ALFRED CASE Pensioner Alfred Case, 81, passed away Oct. 22. Brother Case was a Brooklyn, N.Y., native. He sailed in the engine department. Brother Case started collecting his retirement pay in 1987 and lived in Fair Oaks, Calif. HARRY FOSTER Pensioner Harry Foster, 74, died Oct. 26. Brother Foster became an SIU member in 1960 in Mobile, Ala. He first shipped with Waterman Steamship Corporation. Brother Foster, a member of the engine department, last sailed aboard the OMI Rover. He went on pension in 1997 and resided in his native state, Alabama. GUADALUPE GARZA Pensioner Guadalupe Garza, 79, passed away Oct. 1. Brother Garza began sailing with the union in 1960. He originally worked on the Del Santos. Brother Garza was a member of the engine department. Before retiring in 1998, he sailed on the USNS Mt. Washington. Brother Garza was born in Houston; he continued to make his home in Texas. away Nov. 9. Brother Howell donned the SIU colors in 1951 while in the port of Mobile, Ala. He initially sailed with Mayflower Steamship Corporation. Brother Howell was born in Mississippi and shipped in the steward department. He most recently worked aboard the Paul Buck. Brother Howell was a resident of Leakesville, Miss. passed away Oct. 3. Brother Trotman began sailing with the SIU in 1951 while in New York. He was originally employed with Delta Steamship Lines as a member of the steward department. Brother Trotman was born in St. James, Barbados. His last trip was on the Boston. Brother Trotman started receiving his pension in 1974. He was a resident of Bronx, N.Y. WALTER KRUSZEWSKI ORIE WILSON Pensioner Walter Kruszewski, 94, died Nov. 13. Brother Kruszewski joined the union in 1951 while in the port of New York. He initially shipped aboard a Sprogue Steamship Company vessel. Brother Kruszewski worked in the deck department. His final ship was the Gallaway. Brother Kruszewski retired in the 1981 and lived in Uncasville, Conn. Pensioner Orie Wilson, 89, died Oct. 6. Brother Wilson first donned the SIU colors in 1951 while in New York. His first voyage was aboard a Waterman Steamship Corporation vessel. Brother Wilson, an Alabama native, was a member of the deck department. His final trip was on the Economy. Brother Wilson went on pension in 1988 and made his home in Mobile. MANUEL MARTINEZ Brother Manuel Martinez, 57, passed away Nov. 17. Brother Martinez signed on with the SIU in 1988. He originally worked on the Economy. Brother Martinez was a native of Honduras. The engine department member most recently sailed aboard the Ocean Freedom. Brother Martinez made his home in Houston. PETER MISTRETTA Pensioner Peter Mistretta, 91, died Jan. 4. Brother Mistretta was born in Baltimore. He started his SIU career in 1946. Brother Mistretta was a deck department member. Prior to his retirement in 1986, he sailed on the Pioneer. Brother Mistretta was a resident of Cockeysville, Md. ANGELO ROMERO Pensioner Angelo Romero, 86, passed away Dec. 30. Brother Romero became a union member in 1951. His first ship was the Stathport; his last was the Elizabeth. Brother Romero was born in Brooklyn, N.Y., and sailed in the steward department. He went on pension in 1993 and resided in New Jersey. PAUL THOMAS Pensioner William Holbrook, 86, died Oct. 7. Brother Holbrook was born in West Virginia. He started receiving his pension in 1972 and called Sissonville, W.Va., home. Pensioner Paul Thomas, 83, died Oct. 16. Brother Thomas was born in Alabama. He joined the Seafarers in 1953, initially shipping with Waterman Steamship Corporation. Brother Thomas sailed in the engine department. His final trip was on the Performance. Brother Thomas became a pensioner in 1991 and called Mobile home. MARVIN HOWELL MILTON TROTMAN WILLIAM HOLBROOK Pensioner Marvin Howell, 89, passed 18 Seafarers LOG 15045_May_LOG.indd 18 Pensioner Milton Trotman, 107, INLAND PETER BENOIT Pensioner Peter Benoit, 73, passed away Oct. 2. Brother Benoit started shipping with the SIU in 1984. He primarily sailed with Crescent Towing & Salvage of New Orleans. Brother Benoit was born in Louisiana. He was a deck department member. Brother Benoit retired in 2003 and lived in Fort Mill, S.C. LOWELL BROXSON Pensioner Lowell Broxson, 79, died Oct. 30. Brother Broxson joined the union in 1963. He was a native of Wright, Fla. Brother Broxson shipped with Hvide Marine for the duration of his career. He worked in both the deck and engine departments. Brother Broxson became a pensioner in 1991. He was a resident of Vidor, Texas. CHARLES CAPPELLO Pensioner Charles Cappello, 86, passed away Oct. 31. Brother Cappello began sailing with the union in 1973. He was initially employed aboard McAllister Towing of Philadelphia vessels. Brother Cappello was born in Philadelphia. The steward department member’s final trip was on a Taylor Marine Towing Company vessel. Brother Cappello started collecting his retirement pay in 1988. He settled in New Jersey. GERARD CIFARELLI Pensioner Gerard Cifarelli, 73, died Nov. 20. Brother Cifarelli was born in Newark, N.J. He started sailing with the SIU in 1970. Brother Cifarelli first shipped with OSG Ship Management and was a deck department member. He last sailed aboard a McAllister Towing of Baltimore vessel before going on pension in 1998. Brother Cifarelli called Maryland home. ARDALE CRIM Brother Ardale Crim, 58, passed away Sept. 11. He signed on with the SIU in 1998. Brother Crim’s earliest trip was with Penn Maritime Inc. He last sailed on the Pride. Brother Crim was born in Arkansas and made his home in Grenada, Miss. NORMAN POKRYWKA Pensioner Norman Pokrywka, 82, died Oct. 25. Brother Pokrywka started sailing with the union in 1957 while in the port of Baltimore. He mainly sailed aboard Moran Towing of Maryland vessels. Brother Pokrywka was born in Michigan. He started collecting his retirement pay in 1988. Brother Pokrywka settled in Baltimore. GREAT LAKES WILLIAM MACDONALD Pensioner William MacDonald, 78, passed away Oct. 13. Brother MacDonald was born in Scotland. He joined the union in 1960, initially shipping with American Steamship Company. Brother MacDonald sailed in the deck department. His final trip was on the Sam Laud. Brother MacDonald became a pensioner in 1995 and resided in Hamburg, N.Y. Editor’s note: The following brothers and sister, all former members of the National Maritime Union (NMU), have passed away. ALCIBIADES COUTIN Pensioner Alcibiades Coutin, 88, died Oct. 2. Brother Coutin was born in Cuba. He went on pension in 1981. Brother Coutin made his home in Puerto Rico. GEORGE DEARBORN Pensioner George Dearborn, 84, passed away Oct. 21. Brother Dearborn, a native of Bushnell, Fla., started collecting his retirement compensation in 1991. He lived in Webster, Texas. LUIS DIMAS Pensioner Luis Dimas, 85, died Nov. 4. Born in San Marcos, Texas, Brother Dimas became a pensioner in 1966. He called Houston home. FRANCISCA DOMINGUEZ Pensioner Francisca Dominguez, 93, passed away Nov. 10. Sister Dominguez was born in Puerto Rico. She retired in 1979 and resided in Ormond Beach, Fla. AHMED FADL Pensioner Ahmed Fadl, 91, died Nov. 8. Brother Fadl was a native of Egypt. He began receiving his pension in 1987. Brother Fadl lived in Brooklyn, N.Y. home in Kingston, Pa. ROBERT HARRIS Pensioner Robert Harris, 86, died Nov. 18. Born in New York, Brother Harris started receiving his retirement compensation in 1970. He lived in Brooklyn, N.Y. MANUEL HARRISON Pensioner Manuel Harrison, 72, passed away Nov. 23. Brother Harrison was born in Texas. He retired in 1995 and settled in Tyler, Texas. FRANK HUNT Pensioner Frank Hunt, 91, died Nov. 3. Brother Hunt was a native of Missouri. He became a pensioner in 1966 and called Seattle home. DAVID HUNTER Pensioner David Hunter, 85, passed away Nov. 18. Brother Hunter, a native of North Carolina, began collecting his pension in 1968. He resided in Portsmouth, Va. EUGENE JAPNGIE Pensioner Eugene Japngie, 82, died Oct. 24. Born in Brooklyn, N.Y., Brother Japngie went on pension in 1972. He lived in Peoria, Ariz. PAUL MARTINEZ Pensioner Raul Martinez, 84, passed away Nov. 2. Brother Martinez was born in Fajardo, P.R. He retired in 1966 and was a resident of Orlando, Fla. JOHN MCCARTHY Pensioner John McCarthy, 81, died Nov. 2. Brother McCarthy was a New York native. He started receiving his retirement pay in 1993. Brother McCarthy made his home in Las Vegas, Nev. FELIX MUNOZ Pensioner Felix Munoz, 67, passed away Oct. 15. The Puerto Rican-born mariner became a pensioner in 2011. Brother Munoz settled in Bronx, N.Y. ROBERT O’BANNON Pensioner Robert O’Bannon, 82, died Oct. 4. Brother O’Bannon, a Vicksburg, Miss., native, went on pension in 1972. He called Baton Rouge, La., home. THEODORE PADDOCK Pensioner Theodore Paddock, 88, passed away Nov. 14. Brother Paddock was born in Pompton Lakes, N.J. He began collecting compensation for his retirement in 1967. Brother Paddock made his home in Lake Dallas, Texas. WILLIAM PARIS Pensioner William Paris, 73, died Nov. 4. Born in New Jersey, Brother Paris started receiving his pension in 1999. He lived in Chesapeake, Va. HERMAN GUILLORY DANIEL PIEYNS Pensioner Herman Guillory, 87, passed away Nov. 14. Brother Guillory, a native of Lake Charles, La., went on pension in 1987. He made his Pensioner Daniel Pieyns, 94, passed away Nov. 24. Brother Pieyns was a native of Wisconsin. He retired in 1985 and resided in New Mexico. May 2013 4/25/2013 3:25:51 PM �Digest of Shipboard Union Meetings ALASKAN FRONTIER (Alaska Tanker Company), February 19 – Chairman Anton T. Sulic, Secretary Gregory S. Lynch, Educational Director Lee A. Weygandt, Deck Delegate Jose Calong, Steward Delegate Justo Reyes. Chairman discussed procedures for renewing TWIC cards and talked about new TOTE ship. Secretary went over features of SIU website and told members how to create their own log in. Educational director encouraged fellow Seafarers to upgrade at union-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. It was reported that ship received an award for no injuries during a series of voyages. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Steward department was thanked for making great food on movie nights. Mariners were reminded to leave rooms clean for reliefs. Next port: Anchorage, Alaska. The Seafarers LOG attempts to print as many digests of union shipboard minutes as possible. On occasion, because of space limitations, some will be omitted. Ships’ minutes first are reviewed by the union’s contract department. Those issues requiring attention or resolution are addressed by the union upon receipt of the ships’ minutes. The minutes are then forwarded to the Seafarers LOG for publication. Remembering Brother Brock Seafarers and officers aboard the Seabulk Challenge joined in a memorial service March 14, honoring the late AB Thomas Garfield Brock, who passed away on New Year’s Eve at age 63. Chief Steward Timothy Dowd submitted these photos from the service and noted it “was performed by Captain Stewart Potter with the crew in attendance, during the vessel’s voyage between Lake Charles, La., and Port Everglades, Fla.” Following a religious reading, Brother Brock’s ashes were released and a moment of silence was observed aboard the Seabulk Tankers, Inc. vessel. EL MORRO (Interocean American Shipping), February 27 – Chairman Nathaniel Leary, Secretary Rafael A. Cardenas, Educational Director Joseph A. Letang, Steward Delegate Isaac Newsome. Chairman reminded fellow members about importance of upgrading at Paul Hall Center in Piney Point and urged everyone to keep all paperwork and shipping documents up-to-date: clinic card, medical forms, TWIC, passport, etc. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew members stated steward department and UAs are doing a great job. ENDURANCE (Crowley), February 10 – Chairman Pablo O. Borja, Secretary Sedell M. Reynolds, Educational Director Tracy L. Hanson, Deck Delegate Lawrence Richardson, Engine Delegate Lucian Lepadatu, Steward Delegate Melvin Cooper. Chairman went over ship’s itinerary and urged mariners to read president’s report in the Seafarers LOG. Secretary requested OT sheets. Educational director encouraged seafarers to enhance skills at the Paul Hall Center. No beefs; disputed OT reported in the steward department. Clarification was requested regarding new contract. Messhall wellmaintained and clean thanks to the steward department. Captain thanked entire crew for good job on sanitary inspection. Next ports: Baltimore, New Zealand, Australia and Singapore. GLOBAL SENTINEL (Transoceanic Cable Ship), February 4 – Chairman Timothy B. Fogg, Secretary Vicki L. Haggerty, Deck Delegate Justin S. Beal, Steward Delegate Robert J. Haggerty, Engine Delegate Johnny W. Carson. Bosun thanked everyone for keeping the ship clean and over 800 days accident-free. He reminded members to keep union dues current. Educational director recommended upgrading at Piney Point and checking expiration dates May 2013 15045_May_LOG.indd 19 on all documents. Treasurer stated $3,530 in crew fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew expressed gratitude to steward department for doing a good job. HORIZON PACIFIC (Horizon Lines), February 3 – Chairman Glenn R. Christenson, Secretary Robert P. Mosley, Educational Director John A. Osburn, Engine Delegate James B. Spranza, Deck Delegate James E. Murphy, Steward Delegate Freddie C. Castro. Chairman announced payoff in Los Angeles February 3. He stressed the need to maintain a safe pace while working. Crew members were asked to keep noise down while others are sleeping and clean rooms before departing vessel. Secretary reminded crew to keep documents current and urged fellow members to contribute to SPAD. Educational director encouraged crew to upgrade whenever possible. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Treasurer reported $170.87 in cookout fund. Crew members thanked Honolulu union representative for coming aboard and giving them lots of information. Vote of thanks given to President Sacco and his staff for a job well done. Suggestion was made regarding vacation applications. Steward department was thanked for good food and clean house. Members were asked to keep laundry room door closed at all times. Next ports: Los Angeles and Honolulu. HORIZON TRADER (Horizon Lines), February 10 – Chairman Issac Vega Mercado, Secretary Kevin M. Dougherty, Educational Director Thomas M. Flynn, Deck Delegate Marcos Santos, Engine Delegate Mark Morris, Steward Delegate Michael Henry. Chairman stated payoff to take place upon arrival in Jacksonville, Fla., February 14. Secretary reported improvements to SIU website. Easy access to useful information is appreciated. Educational director noted that despite long phone wait times for service from TWIC, the renewal process at TWIC centers goes much faster. Treasurer reported $5,332 in ship’s fund; a portion of the money was used to repair TV satellite. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew members would like better internet service aboard vessel. Recommendations were made pertaining to vacation and pension benefits. Next ports: Jacksonville, Fla., San Juan, P.R. and Elizabeth, N.J. LIGHTNING (Maersk Line, Limited), February 23 – Chairman Shawn T. Evans, Secretary Terry Allen, Educational Director Vladimir Babenko, Steward Delegate Robin D. Ballard. Chairman thanked crew for smooth trip. He urged them to keep track of document expiration dates. Educational director asked that broken items be reported to department heads. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew suggested lowering sea time requirements for full pension. A big thanks was given to steward department for great food. Next port: Oakland, Calif. MAERSK COMET (Maersk Line, Limited), February 16 – Chairman Anthony J. Sabatini, Secretary Mark S. Scardino, Educational Director Jonathan D. Tucker, Engine Delegate Lonnie I. Carter, Steward Delegate Teresito O. Reyes. Chairman reminded mariners to keep seafaring documents current and be courteous to one another. Secretary thanked deck and engine departments for keeping equipment working properly. Educational director discussed opportunities available at the Piney Point school and reminded crew that about STCW amendments. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Mariners would like new coffee grinder, table covers, dart board and stationary bike. Next ports: Long Beach, Calif., Oakland, and Dutch Harbor, Alaska. MAERSK MISSOURI (Maersk Line, Limited), February 24 – Chairman Wilson M. Trayvilla, Secretary Billy Gigante, Educational Director Nicholas W. Collins, Deck Delegate Michael D. Sedita, Engine Delegate Anatoli Vetsinov, Steward Delegate Brian T. McEleneny. Chairman reported good voyage and thanked crew for working hard. Secretary asked seafarers to leave cabins clean for reliefs. Educational director suggested crew upgrade whenever possible and keep documents up-to-date. Treasurer reported $2,000 in ship’s fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Vote of thanks extended to steward department for a job well done. Next ports: Charleston, S.C., Norfolk, Va. and Newark, N.J. OVERSEAS TAMPA (OSG), February 17 – Chairman Frank P. Hedge, Secretary Joseph P. Emidy, Educational Director Ashley Carmichael, Deck Delegate Johnie Chavis, Steward Delegate Kenneth Kelly. Chairman reported smooth trip with respectful crew members. Secretary reminded them to contribute to SPAD, because when you do, you help yourself as well as your union brothers and sisters. Educational director encouraged all mariners to enhance skills at the unionaffiliated school. No beefs; disputed OT reported in the engine department. Request was made f or new mattresses, and refrigerators in rooms. Crew discussed complaints concerning company physicals. They recommended increasing pension benefits, and also commended galley gang for job well done. Seafarers LOG 19 4/25/2013 3:25:54 PM �Letters To The Editor Union Changed My Life I was in the AB to Mate program and just left school a few weeks ago. Throughout my stay I had known that when I passed the Coast Guard examination, I would share how I became acquainted with SIU and how it changed my life. Growing up in Grand Rapids, Mich., I became a cook at family restaurants and eventually dropped out of high school. I got in with the wrong crowd. I became addicted to drugs and alcohol and continued to do so when I moved to Seward, which is a small town in Alaska, before the turn of the millennium. The minimal law enforcement and other factors were enough to continue my alcoholism. Most mornings began with booze. Then, in the fall of 2004 I hit a tree while driving my pickup on Salmon Creek Road. After the Seward Providence Hospital determined they did not have the equipment for my situation, I was driven to Anchorage, 120 miles north, where I was unconscious The writer credits the SIU and its affiliated school in Piney Point, Md., for helping him get on the right track. Letters may be edited for conciseness and clarity. Submissions may be mailed to 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746 or e-mailed to webmaster@seafarers.org. for a month. My mother moved to Alaska to become my guardian in the rehabilitation process, as I could not function on my own or in society because I suffered a head trauma. I had to relearn how to walk, talk, read and write. It took more than six months after the accident to be able to function again. Since my body had gone through the detox process when I was unconscious, I felt it would not benefit me to start either drinking alcohol or using drugs again. I became affiliated with the Department of Vocational Rehabilitation (DVR) where I was placed in a kitchen where I realized that being a cook just didn’t bring me the same satisfaction as before my accident. My counselor, Pat, told me many things; one was about his friend who was a seaman. I tried to get accepted into a nonprofit organization called Sealink, based in Juneau, and, with help from DVR, I was on my way. Sealink put me into the Paul Hall Center and its Lundeberg School of Seamanship in Piney Point, Md. I found it very beneficial for me to be in this military-style environment after what had happened to me less than a year before. It was here at the school in Piney Point that I learned about the SIU. I chose the deck department after phase two of the entry program. Then, after graduating, the first five months was work, work, work; I truly felt at home on the sea. I stayed back in Grand Rapids again for some time between voyages, repaying my debt from the accident and building the down payment on where I would live. Eventually I was able to purchase a residence in Anchorage, which is where I now call home. The SIU has given me something to look forward to and a goal to work for. Honestly, I have gone back and forth about my decision to become a licensed officer by the U.S. Coast Guard as a merchant mariner, but in the end it was just a matter of knowing I wanted to better myself as an individual – and the SIU has made this all possible. This union has helped me in more ways than one. Nicholas Kempker Active, Retired Mariners Invited to Join AMMV This is an open letter to all active and retired U.S. Merchant Mariners. As president of the American Merchant Marine Veterans, Inc. (AMMV), I invite you to join our efforts to move past our current World War II membership era. Many of our members believe there is a place for the AMMV beyond our WWII base membership. The AMMV was organized in 1984 by primarily WWII mariners who had become outraged by government denial of their WWII contributions. During the formation the founders included purposes which supported current and future U.S. Merchant Marine issues. Progress has been made and we need to continue these efforts. To name just a few: n AMMV members donated significant labor and financial assets to support the WWII legacy ships. n AMMV chapters and members have gained recognition of U.S. Merchant Marine contributions at the National WWII Memorial and on the local level in many parks and memorials. n Publicity for historical recognition is being sought at many levels including public functions. n Historical literature and verbal information has been widely distributed on a national level to Congress, schools, newspapers and elsewhere to perpetuate this public recognition. n Members support the Jones Act, American-flag fleet, MSC, personnel training and maritime schools. n AMMV members continue to fight for further recognition of WWII Mariners who were not fully recognized and compensated for their service, i.e. HR-23, the Belated Thank You to the Merchant Mariners of World War II Act. n Efforts with the Air Force and Congress for other post-WWII veterans’ recognition are ongoing. Applications for Korea and Vietnam are scheduled for submittal around April 2013. I invite you to be the next generation who will make the AMMV an effective partner with existing maritime organizations in support of U.S. Merchant Mariner recognition and support efforts to make the U.S. Merchant Marine an ongoing effective force in national security, national economic success, and homeland security. Most of our members now exceed 85 years of age. It will only be a few years before we must close our doors as some WWII organizations have already done. Current membership is about 3,200 – of this about 800 are members at large, with the remainder belonging to 65 chapters located across the country. Currently, the AMMV is a registered 501(c) 19 veterans organization, which could be converted to a 501(c) 3 based on our official veteran membership composition. The plan is to keep the 501(c) 19 veterans organization active as long as we can keep the IRS happy. Recently, we opened full membership to wives and widows plus associate membership to family members, making it possible for families to join and support their mariners. Sindy Raymond maintains our national corporate office, P.O. Box 186, Ferndale, CA 95536, (707) 786-4554 or saaren@ frontiernet.net. Join us, become active, participate and help move the AMMV into the 21st century. I look forward to welcoming you as a member in the American Merchant Marine Veterans. Yours in Service, Morris Harvey, National President AMMV, Inc. Know Your Rights FINANCIAL REPORTS. The Constitution of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters makes specific provision for safeguarding the membership’s money and union finances. The constitution requires a detailed audit by certified public accountants every year, which is to be submitted to the membership by the secretary-treasurer. A yearly finance committee of rank-and-file members, elected by the membership, each year examines the finances of the union and reports fully their findings and recommendations. Members of this committee may make dissenting reports, specific recommendations and separate findings. TRUST FUNDS. All trust funds of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters are administered in accordance with the provisions of various trust fund agreements. All these agreements specify that the trustees in charge of these funds shall equally consist of union and management representatives and their alternates. All expenditures and disbursements of trust funds are made only upon approval by a majority of the trustees. All trust fund financial records are available at the headquarters of the various trust funds. SHIPPING RIGHTS. A member’s shipping rights and seniority are protected exclusively by contracts between the union and the employers. Members should get to know their shipping rights. Copies of these contracts are posted and available in all union halls. If members believe there have been violations of their shipping or seniority rights as contained in the contracts between the union and the employers, they should notify the Seafarers Appeals Board by certified mail, return receipt 20 Seafarers LOG 15045_May_LOG_X.indd 20 requested. The proper address for this is: Augustin Tellez, Chairman Seafarers Appeals Board 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 Full copies of contracts as referred to are available to members at all times, either by writing directly to the union or to the Seafarers Appeals Board. CONTRACTS. Copies of all SIU contracts are available in all SIU halls. These contracts specify the wages and conditions under which an SIU member works and lives aboard a ship or boat. Members should know their contract rights, as well as their obligations, such as filing for overtime (OT) on the proper sheets and in the proper manner. If, at any time, a member believes that an SIU patrolman or other union official fails to protect their contractual rights properly, he or she should contact the nearest SIU port agent. EDITORIAL POLICY — THE SEAFARERS LOG. The Seafarers LOG traditionally has refrained from publishing any article serving the political purposes of any individual in the union, officer or member. It also has refrained from publishing articles deemed harmful to the union or its collective membership. This established policy has been reaffirmed by membership action at the September 1960 meetings in all constitutional ports. The responsibility for Seafarers LOG policy is vested in an editorial board which consists of the executive board of the union. The executive board may delegate, from among its ranks, one individual to carry out this responsibility. PAYMENT OF MONIES. No monies are to be paid to anyone in any official capacity in the SIU unless an official union receipt is given for same. Under no circumstances should any member pay any money for any reason unless he is given such receipt. In the event anyone attempts to require any such payment be made without supplying a receipt, or if a member is required to make a payment and is given an official receipt, but feels that he or she should not have been required to make such payment, this should immediately be reported to union headquarters. CONSTITUTIONAL RIGHTS AND OBLIGATIONS. Copies of the SIU Constitution are available in all union halls. All members should obtain copies of this constitution so as to familiarize themselves with its contents. Any time a member feels any other member or officer is attempting to deprive him or her of any constitutional right or obligation by any methods, such as dealing with charges, trials, etc., as well as all other details, the member so affected should immediately notify headquarters. EQUAL RIGHTS. All members are guaranteed equal rights in employment and as members of the SIU. These rights are clearly set forth in the SIU Constitution and in the contracts which the union has negotiated with the employers. Consequently, no member may be discriminated against because of race, creed, color, sex, national or geographic origin. If any member feels that he or she is denied the equal rights to which he or she is entitled, the member should notify union headquarters. SEAFARERS POLITICAL ACTIVITY DONATION (SPAD). SPAD is a separate segregated fund. Its proceeds are used to further its objects and purposes including, but not limited to, furthering the political, social and economic interests of maritime workers, the preservation and furthering of the American merchant marine with improved employment opportunities for seamen and boatmen and the advancement of trade union concepts. In connection with such objects, SPAD supports and contributes to political candidates for elective office. All contributions are voluntary. No contribution may be solicited or received because of force, job discrimination, financial reprisal, or threat of such conduct, or as a condition of membership in the union or of employment. If a contribution is made by reason of the above improper conduct, the member should notify the Seafarers International Union or SPAD by certified mail within 30 days of the contribution for investigation and appropriate action and refund, if involuntary. A member should support SPAD to protect and further his or her economic, political and social interests, and American trade union concepts. NOTIFYING THE UNION — If at any time a member feels that any of the above rights have been violated, or that he or she has been denied the constitutional right of access to union records or information, the member should immediately notify SIU President Michael Sacco at headquarters by certified mail, return receipt requested. The address is: Michael Sacco, President Seafarers International Union 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746. May 2013 4/26/2013 3:11:04 PM �Paul Hall Center Upgrading Course Information The following is a schedule of courses at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md., for the next few months. All programs are geared toward improving the job skills of Seafarers and promoting the American maritime industry. Please note that this schedule may change to reflect the needs of the membership, the maritime industry and—in times of conflict—the national security. Students attending any of these classes should check in the Saturday before their course’s start date. The courses listed here will begin promptly on the morning of the start dates. For classes ending on a Friday, departure reservations should be made for Saturday. Seafarers who have any questions regarding the upgrading courses offered at the Paul Hall Center may call the admissions office at (301) 994-0010. Title of Course Start Date Date of Completion Title of Course Start Date Date of Completion Marine Electrician July 27 September 20 Marine Refer Tech September 28 November 8 Advanced Refer Containers June 29 July 26 Pumpman November 30 December 13 Welding June 1 June 29 July 27 September 14 October 26 November 30 June 21 July 19 August 16 October 4 November 15 December 20 Deck Department Lifeboatman/Water Survival May 25 June 22 July 20 June 7 July 5 August 2 STOS (RFPNW) July 20 September 14 November 9 August 16 October 11 December 6 Able Seaman May 11 July 6 August 24 June 7 August 2 September 20 Radar Renewal (One day) May 28 May 28 Radar Observer September 7 September 20 ARPA May 18 September 21 May 24 September 27 Bosun Recertification July 13 August 5 Fast Rescue Boat June 15 August 3 June 21 August 9 Safety Upgrading Courses Advanced Firefighting July 13 August 17 September 14 July 19 August 23 September 20 Basic Firefighting/STCW May 11 June 15 August 10 September 7 May 17 June 21 August 16 September 13 Government Vessels June 1 July 20 June 7 July 26 Medical Care Provider July 20 August 24 July 26 August 30 Tanker Assistant (DL) June 1 July 27 June 14 August 9 Steward Department Upgrading Courses Engine Department Designated Duty Engineer Prep June 15 July 6 July 27 June 28 July 19 August 9 May 18 July 20 September 14 November 9 June 14 August 16 October 11 December 6 FOWT June 15 August 17 October 12 July 12 September 13 November 8 Junior Engineer August 24 October 26 October 18 December 20 Basic Auxiliary Plant Operations (BAPO) UPGRADING APPLICATION Name ________________________________________________________________________ Address ______________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________ Telephone (Home)_________________________ (Cell)_________________________ Date of Birth __________________________________________________________________ Deep Sea Member o Lakes Member o Inland Waters Member o If the following information is not filled out completely, your application will not be processed. Social Security #_______________________ Book # _________________________________ Seniority_____________________________ Department_____________________________ Home Port____________________________________________________________________ E-mail_______________________________________________________________________ Endorsement(s) or License(s) now held_____________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________ Are you a graduate of the SHLSS/PHC trainee program? o Yes o No If yes, class # __________________________________________________________________ Have you attended any SHLSS/PHC upgrading courses? o Yes o No If yes, course(s) taken____________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________ With this application, COPIES of the following must be sent: One hundred and twenty-five (125) days seatime for the previous year, one day in the last six months prior to the date your class starts, USMMD (z-card) front and back or relevant pages of merchant mariner credential, front page of your union book indicating your department and seniority, qualifying seatime for the course if it is Coast Guard tested, 1995 STCW Certificate, valid SHBP Clinic Card and TWIC. May 2013 15045_May_LOG.indd 21 Chief Steward July 6 October 5 August 16 November 15 Serve Safe June 8 August 31 November 23 June 14 September 6 November 29 Galley Operations These modules start every Monday. Chief Cook These modules start every other week. The next class will begin May 11. Advanced Galley Operations These modules start every Monday. COURSE ____________________________ START DATE _______________ DATE OF COMPLETION _______________________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________________ LAST VESSEL: ___________________________________ Rating: ____________________ Date On: _______________________________ Date Off:____________________________ SIGNATURE ____________________________________ DATE______________________ NOTE: Transportation will be paid in accordance with the scheduling letter only if you present original receipts and successfully complete the course. If you have any questions, contact your port agent before departing for Piney Point. Not all classes are reimbursable.Return completed application to: Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education Admissions Office, P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674-0075; or fax to (301) 994-2189. The Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education is a private, non-profit, equal opportunity institution and admits students, who are otherwise qualified, of any race, nationality or sex. The school complies with applicable laws with regard to admission, access or treatment of students in its programs or activities. 4 /13 Seafarers LOG 21 4/25/2013 3:25:56 PM �Paul Hall Center Classes Unlicensed Apprentice Water Survival Class #770 – The following individuals (above in alphabetical order), graduated from this 60-hour course March 15: Nasser Ahmed, Matthew Brown, Wesley Bryant, Alkeshia Calbourne, Sean Cavanaugh, Dustin Crutchfield, Andrew DeVine, Jarrett Ford, David Gentsch, Donte Harris, Carlos Mohler Vega, Michael Montanez, Peter Morrison Jr., Michael Pinnisi, Jory Vachon, Philip Valentine, Ryan Walker and William White III. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Welding – Nine upgraders completed their requirements in this four-week course March 29. Graduating (above in alphabetical order) were: Tousif Ahmed, Damien Bautista, Valerio Bellezze, Dennis Blake, Herman Castro, Christopher Hughes, Joselier Itaralde, Patrick Sullivan and Keith White. Class Instructor Buzzy Andrews is at the far right in the back row. BST (SIU) – The following Seafarers (above in alphabetical order) completed the enhancement of their skills in this course March 29: Jason Babbitt, Geoffrey Bell, Jose Burgos, Roger Dillinger Jr., Ernest Dumont, Warner James, Doug McLaughlin, Rickey Pettaway, Jason Smooke, Jamal Taleb and Isaiah Washington. Mike Roberts, their instructor, is at the far right. Junior Engineer – Twenty-four upgraders finished their requirements in this course March 22. Those graduating (above in alphabetical order) were: Tousif Ahmed, Jason Babbitt, Russell Bravo, Angel Cintron-Colon, Craig Croft, Ricardo Ducay, Melvin George, Joshua Hammons, Cort Hansen, Kevin Hunt, Boyko Kovatchev, Lon Maduro, Donnetta McLee, Lawrence Miller, Rickey Pettaway, Omar Rodgers, Salah Saleh, Robert Scrivens, Daunteley Signal, Marcel Soares, Adam Soto, Bernard Wade II, Don Williams and Ricardo Vazquez Jr. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Water Survival Class #770 – Two upgraders graduated from this 60-hour course March 15. Finishing their requirements were: Yung-fan Michael Haloski (left in photo above) and Donald Bishop. Government Vessels – The following Seafarers (above, in alphabetical order ) graduated from this course March 15: Gloria Baker, Tyesha Boyd, Maili Cabrera, Christopher D’Andrea, Bernel Davis, Ernest Dumont Sr., Michael Fincannon, Gerardo Frederick, Michael Harris Jr., Kayle Hower, Darryl Jackson, Charles Kent, James Minckler, Rodante Niebres, Francisco Ocado, and Kareim Wright. Mark Cates, their instructor, is second from right in the back row. (Note: Not all are pictured.) FOWT – Twenty-four upgraders completed this course March 22. Graduating (photo at right, in alphabetical order) were: Randy Baggs, John Bielamowicz, Justin Biggerstaff, Justin Bly, Christian Bryant, Jared Cabasug, Alexander Capellan, Dwight Cherry, Matt Dalgetty, Earl Dimmick, Scott Doxey, Cody Fox, Evan Hansen, Sean Hernandez, Eser Kaptan, Jade Kellar, Mahare Kidane, Do Q. Luong, Yancey Mitchell, Robert Neff, Ryan Papa, Davon Peterson, Justin Smith and Frederick Wright. Class Instructor Tim Achorn, is at the far right in the front row. (Note: Not all are pictured.) 22 Seafarers LOG 15045_May_LOG.indd 22 May 2013 4/25/2013 3:26:02 PM �Paul Hall Center Classes Tankship Familiarization – Twenty-three Phase III unlicensed apprentices graduated from this course March 15. Completing their requirements (photo at left, in alphabetical order) were: Jason Baker, Aaron Ellis, Noel Fedee, Adrian Fraccarolli, Bernard Hall, Shari Hinton, Omari Holt, Michael Hulse, Michael Hunnicutt, Chase Knisley, Richard Lawson, Unis Malahi, William McCrory, Derek Minnix, Ammar Mohamed, Ali Musid, Paul Nelson, Edward Seelig, Ahmed Sennain, Mark Stagovic, Joseph Turcketta, Christopher Wing and Claude Young. Notice to Students Students who have registered for classes at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, but later discover - for whatever reason - that they can’t attend, should inform the admissions department immediately so arrangements can be made to have other students take their places. BST (NCL) – Nineteen individuals finished this course March 29. Graduating (above in alphabetical order) were: Andrew Brewer, Trey Cash, Nicole D’Arienzo, Christopher DeRosa, Joseph Ghee, Danielle Heaton, Marc Heitzman, Jesse Jones, Chase Kamata, Cali LaSpina, Jessie Lawyer, Corey Masklee, Carissa Massaro, Glen North, Matthew Reminton, Matthew Ranaudo, Delaney Thompson, Valerie Williams and Kelli Youngman. Class Instructor Mike Roberts is at the far right in the front row. Designated Duty Engineer – Two individuals competed the enhancement of their skills in this course March 8. Graduating were Brian Lockley (left in photo above) and Marc Rice. Their instructor, Scott Ciatto, is at the right. Marine Electrician – Eleven Seafarers finished their requirements in this course March 22. Those graduating (above in alphabetical order) were: Jose Bonita, Ruben Haynes, Gregory Holsey Jr., Douglas McLaughlin, Patrick Milton, M’Barek Nouhairi, Christian Oding, Lionel Rivera, Zachary Ross, Cornelius Smith and Jimmie Williams Jr. Jay Henderson, their instructor, is at the far left in the back row. Certified Chief Cook – Several individuals recently completed the enhancement of their skills in this steward department course. Those graduating (above, in no particular order) were: Maccine Bell, Dan Kane, Mario LaCayo, David Moses, Richard Torres, Jennifer Ramirez, Chris Cross and Marcelo Alicea. Instructor John Dobson is fifth from the right. Steward Department Classes – Three individuals recently finished courses in the steward department. Those graduating and the courses they completed (above, in no particular order) were: Richard Torres, certified chief cook; Tony Morris, advanced galley operations, and Noel Segovia, galley operations. May 2013 15045_May_LOG.indd 23 Certified Chief Cook – Two Seafarers recently graduated from this steward department course. Graduating were Antonio Hernandez (above, left) and Marcel Alicea. Seafarers LOG 23 4/25/2013 3:26:09 PM �Volume 75, Number 5 May 2013 Paul Hall Center Course Dates Page 21 Donations Come in for Piney Point Walkway Engraved Bricks to Commemorate Seafarers, Family, Others Spots have begun filling up as people from around the country donate the engraved bricks that will line a walkway commemorating Seafarers and their loved ones. Offered as a way to honor individuals, groups and organizations within the maritime community, the bricks will fill a waterfront park at the Paul Hall Center’s Lundeberg School in Piney Point, Md. Seafarers, their loved ones and the companies that employ them have the chance to donate the bricks and engrave them with text or logos of their choosing. The donation of a brick also comes with an entry in the project’s name-thepark contest. The possibilities are practically limitless when it comes to what the bricks can be used to commemorate. Bricks can be engraved to honor any person, group or organization – regardless of any affiliation to the SIU or Piney Point school – and will have a permanent place within the maritime community. They could be used to celebrate everything from a beloved Seafarer or a memorable crew, to a remarkable instructor or a heroic rescue. Bill Eglinton, a retired director of vocational training at the Paul Hall Center, said he wanted to commemorate his late friend, Recertified Steward Luis Escobar. “It will be a memorial for us,” Eglin- These samples show the sizes and styles of bricks available. ton said. “I’m at the school regularly, so I’ll get to go often and reminisce.” Aside from helping to commemorate loved ones, the brick donations will also help the school in its waterfront restoration project. The park and walkway are part of a large, multi-stage restoration of the school. Seafarers Plans Administrator Maggie Bowen, who is helping oversee the project, said the engraved bricks “offer a chance to honor our heritage and keep it alive. This is a great opportunity not only to preserve SIU and school history, but also to acknowledge individuals and organizations. In fact, that’s true even if they have no direct tie to Piney Point or the Seafarers – a brick can be donated for anyone.” The bricks come in two sizes and may be ordered online at: http://seafarers.org/SIUBricks.htm. The sizes include a traditional-sized brick (4 x 8 inches x 2.25) with three lines of engraving for a donation of $125 and a larger brick (8 x 8 inches x 2.25) with six lines of engraving for a donation of $250. The larger version also may be ordered with a corporate logo and up to three lines of text (subject to space limitations based on the logo) for a donation of $300. If submitting a logo, please note that it cannot be sent through the online order form. Logos (either in EPS, AI, PDF or highresolution JPG, BMP or TIF format) should be emailed to siubricks@seafarers.org. Please include your contact information. The photo above shows the area at the school where the engraved bricks will be placed. At left is an artist’s rendering of the waterfront park 15045_May_LOG_X.indd 24 4/26/2013 3:11:15 PM � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Seafarers Log Issues 2010-2019 Description An account of the resource Volumes LXXII-LXXXI of the Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Seafarers Log Digital Copies Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 2010-2019 Document A resource containing textual data. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre text. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource May 2013 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES TRAINING WITH OUR MILITARY WAGE INCREASES HIGHLIGHT REOPENERS IN SEVERAL GREAT LAKES CONTRACTS WATERFRONT PARK PROJECT PROGRESSES AT PINEY POINT, MAD.- BASED SCHOOL COMMITTEE APPROVES FINANCIAL RECORDS CONGRESSMAN TO WHITE HOUSE: FOOD FOR PEACE ‘CRITICAL’ KEY COALITION URGES ADMINISTRATION NOT TO SHIP AMERICAN JOBS OVERSEAS CONGRESS CONDUCTS PIRACY MEETING CLINIC SYSTEM HAS GROWING PAINS BUT MEMBERS SEE KEY ADVANTAGES PLANS DEPARTMENT SENDS MESSAGES TO SIU MEMBERS SHBP INTRODUCES INNOVATIVE BENEFITS SAIU OFFICIAL EXPLAINS IMPORTANCE OF ‘SEAFARER BILL OF RIGHTS’ ITF WARNS OF FLAGS-OF-CONVENIENCES IN AVIATION A SOUVENIR OF NAZI GERMANY GREAT FIT-OUT 2013 DONATIONS COME IN FOR PINEY POINT WALKWAY ENGRAVED BRICKS COME IN OR PINEY POINT WALKWAY Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Seafarers Log Digital Copies Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 05/01/2013 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Newsprint Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context Vol. 75, No. 5 2013 Periodicals Seafarers Log http://www.seafarerslog.org/archives/files/original/c23ab49af88764bc0351bc9c9e720a61.pdf af53c90f502dcd2e15f2fbb3628eb3a6 PDF Text Text Volume 75, Number 6 June 2013 Union Welcomes New Tonnage From late April to mid-May, the SIU-crewed fleet got a flurry of new tonnage including the Maersk Chicago (pictured above), a containership operated by Maersk Line, Limited (MLL). In that same period, MLL subsidiary 3PSC christened the research vessel USNS Maury; Crowley Maritime christened the articulated tug-barge Liberty/750-3; the Navy accepted delivery of the mobile landing platform ship USNS Montford Point, to be operated by Ocean Ships; and Austal christened the joint high-speed vessel USNS Millinocket, to be crewed by members of the SIU Government Services Division. Page 3. Congressman Hunter Delivers Pro-U.S. Maritime Message In a recent op-ed, U.S. Rep. Duncan Hunter (R-Calif., center) powerfully stated the case for why America needs a strong U.S. Merchant Marine. Congressman Hunter chairs the House Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation Subcommittee. He is pictured at a recent gathering in Washington, D.C., with SIU President Michael Sacco (left) and SIU Political and Legislative Director Brian Schoeneman. Page 7. Crescent Crews Ratify Gainful 3-Year Pacts By overwhelming majorities, SIU boatmen employed by Crescent Towing in the Gulf region have approved new three-year contracts calling for wage gains and other improvements while maintaining or boosting benefits. The two contracts are nearly identical; one covers Seafarers in Savannah, Ga., and New Orleans (including those pictured above and below, aboard tugs) and the other applies to members in Mobile, Ala. Page 2. SIU Testifies in Congress Page 3 15046_JUNE2K13LOG.indd 1 Port Council News and Pics Page 4 Maritime Day in D.C. Pages 12-14 5/24/2013 2:02:28 PM �President’s Report Maritime’s Message Last month, the SIU capitalized on several chances to remind legislators, administration officials and military leaders why our country needs a strong U.S. Merchant Marine. We did so at the annual “Sail-In” on Capitol Hill, in separate meetings with members of Congress, in testimony at a congressional hearing, and at the National Maritime Day ceremonies in Washington, D.C. As Seafarers know, like many if not most other industries in the United States today, maritime faces global competition. The difference for us is that the competition between U.S. businesses and foreign ones never happens on a level playing field. Foreign vessels operators don’t have to meet the same safety standards as American operators, many foreign-build programs are heavily subsidized, and our mariners don’t benefit from the very favorable tax regimes and nationalized health care of many of our largest competitors. Michael Sacco When faced with similar circumstances, other industries have died off. Unlike most of them, however, the American maritime industry is a critical component of our defense capability. That’s why the United States cannot allow the merchant marine to fade away. Without a U.S.-flag merchant marine – both ships and mariners – our nation would cease to be a superpower. We would not be able to project power around the globe, and we could not meet our many foreign commitments. Look no further back than the last dozen years for proof. The overwhelming majority (90-plus percent) of the materiel needed by our troops in Afghanistan and Iraq was carried on American-flag ships, almost all of them with SIU crews. Take away those mariners and those vessels, and the U.S. would have had to rely on foreigners to move millions of tons of supplies into a war zone. History has shown more than once that foreigners don’t always share our commitment to deliver the goods, with some of the most recent examples occurring several times during Desert Shield/Desert Storm in the early 1990s. Remember also how we “turned to” for humanitarian relief missions in Haiti, Japan and elsewhere around the globe, including extended missions by Seafarers-crewed hospital ships in the Military Sealift Command fleet. Historically, Congress has recognized this value, and that’s why it has always been the policy of the United States government to support the American Merchant Marine. I often write about some of the key programs that help sustain our industry. That’s because those programs are so important to SIU members’ job security. I know how many hoops you have to jump through these days just to ship out. I don’t take it lightly when I ask you to take the time to understand the basic aspects of the Jones Act, cargo preference and the Maritime Security Program. These measures are vital. Without them, our jobs all go away, and so does the American flag on the high seas. Those programs have been attacked in recent years, presently in the form of budget battles that could wipe out the Food for Peace Program. Our union, along with allies across the industry, has said enough is enough. We cannot allow a dismantlement of the core programs that make the U.S. Merchant Marine possible. The constant attacks must end and we must start using our energies to expand our industry, not shrink it. I’m happy to report that in spite of the attacks, thanks to grassroots political action including your letters, visits and calls to elected officials, we have seen some positive legislative action, and I am confident that we stand poised to expand on it. For one thing, earlier this year, Congress reauthorized the Maritime Security Program for an additional 10 years, keeping the program running through 2025. We also saw the release of a favorable Government Accountability Office study of the Jones Act and its impact on Puerto Rico. On the Food for Peace front, we are actively working with Congress to restore the cuts made last year. Restoring these cuts will help maintain our competitiveness and keep the U.S.-Flag fleet moving. As we look ahead, our future must be one in which the U.S. Merchant Marine is expanding. The SIU and the rest of the industry are working together to make it happen. We’re on the verge of some exciting new developments and we will be ready to take advantage of them. These are some of the points we’ve recently made in Washington. The bottom line is that the U.S. Merchant Marine is critical to the economic, national and homeland security of our country. It is high time that we, as a nation, rededicate ourselves to the principles that have kept our maritime industry afloat since the founding of the Republic. Volume 75, Number 6 June 2013 The SIU online: www.seafarers.org The Seafarers LOG (ISSN 1086-4636) is published monthly by the Seafarers International Union; Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters, AFL-CIO; 5201 Auth Way; Camp Springs, MD 20746. Telephone (301) 899-0675. Periodicals postage paid at Southern Maryland 20790-9998. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to the Seafarers LOG, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. Communications Director, Jordan Biscardo; Managing Editor/Production, Jim Guthrie; Assistant Editor, Brian Ahern; Photographer, Harry Gieske; Administrative Support, Misty Dobry. Copyright © 2013 Seafarers International Union, AGLIW. All Rights Reserved. The Seafarers International Union engaged an environmentally friendly printer for the production of this newspaper. 2 Seafarers LOG 15046_JUNE2K13LOG.indd 2 Crescent Crews Ratify Contracts The economic times remain tough, but that didn’t stop the union from securing wellreceived, favorable contracts covering boatmen employed by Crescent Towing. The two new agreements – overwhelmingly approved in April by rank-and-file Seafarers – cover approximately 200 members working for Crescent in New Orleans, Savannah, Ga., and Mobile, Ala. One pact applies to New Orleans and Savannah while the other covers Mobile. The three-year agreements are nearly identical and both took effect May 1. “I think we did as good as we could, considering the economic climate,” stated Captain Terry Murley, a member of the New Orleans/Savannah bargaining committee. “The contract gives us room for movement in the future. That’s how I looked at it.” Among other highlights, the contracts call for annual wage increases, maintain health benefits at the top level available through the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan, maintain pension benefits, and improve vacation benefits. Additionally, the contracts increase the lodging allowance and address seniority issues while improving some incentive provisions. “Things went smoothly and we came out really good with the contract,” said Deckhand/Wheelman Charlie Hammesfahr, another member of the New Orleans/Savannah committee. “We did good with the wages and benefits and the vacation; those were the biggest things.” Negotiations and voting took Standing left to right are members of the New Orleans/Savannah bargaining groups: Crescent Asst. VP Jody Scharfenstein, SIU Mobile Port Agent Jimmy White, Engineer Delegate David Findley, Crescent VP Hays Clark, Crescent Senior Consultant Prentiss Willcutt, Savannah Delegate Charles Hammesfahr, New Orleans Port Agent Chris Westbrook, Captain Delegate Terry Murley, Crescent COO Keith Kettenring, Crescent VP Edward Pinner and Wheelman/Deckhand Delegate Mike Lobue. Taking the picture was Crescent Marine Administrator Steven Reeg, who also served on the bargaining committee. place from early to mid-April, with Seafarers ratifying the pacts aboard Crescent tugs. Approximately 97 percent of the votes were in favor of the new contracts. SIU New Orleans Port Agent Chris Westbrook credited the two committees as well as company personnel for tough but fair bargaining that resulted in reasonable, productive agreements. “We had fantastic committees – very knowledgeable people,” Westbrook said. “They did a tremendous job of making sure gains were made appropriately. We also fought back proposed cuts in wages and benefits. To the company’s credit, they heard what the committees had to say. It’s a team effort out there and we are all pushing for a skilled and safe workforce…. I think the vote count illustrates that everybody was on board and Pictured from left are members of the Mobile negotiating committee: Crescent Towing Operations Manager John Fountain, Crescent VP Tom Lambard, Mobile Port Agent Jimmy White, Deckhand/Wheelman Delegate Roy Saranthus Jr., Crescent COO Keith Kettenring, Captain Delegate Mike Yarbrough, New Orleans Port Agent Chris Westbrook, Crescent Marine Administrator Steven Reeg, Crescent Senior Consultant Prentiss Willcutt, Crescent VP Edward Pinner and Engineer Delegate Steve Woods. everybody was pleased with the outcome.” Joining Westbrook, Murley and Hammesfahr on the New Orleans/Savannah committee were Engineer Delegate David Findley, Deckhand/Wheelman Delegate Mike Lobue and SIU Mobile Port Agent Jimmy White. The Mobile bargaining group consisted of Captain Mike Yarbrough, Engineer Steve Woods, Wheelman Roy Saranthus Jr., Westbrook and White. “I think it went well,” White observed. “For the most part, the members were satisfied.” “I’m very happy with the contract and I think negotiations went very smooth,” said Yarbrough. “We’re very fortunate to have good insurance and a good pension plan…. This was my fourth contract negotiation and I take my hat off to Jimmy White and Chris Westbrook. They did an exceptional job.” Crescent operates harborassist tugs – 17 in New Orleans, five in Savannah, and three in Mobile. Meanwhile, both Murley and Hammesfahr said that as first-time bargaining committee members, the experience proved different than expected. “It lets you see how the inner workings go – things you hear rumors about but never see,” Murley said. “It was a positive experience, seeing how things actually happen.” Hammesfahr added, “It was a good process. It’s different interacting with the company like that as opposed to on a daily basis at work.” 2013 SHBP Scholarship Committee Meets Members of the calendar year 2013 Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan (SHBP) Scholarship Committee met May 10 in Chicago to choose this year’s award recipients. Comprising the committee (from left to right) were: Dr. Keith Schlender, associate VP academic affairs, Lourdes University; Dr. Hank Toutain, dean of students, Kenyon College; Dr. Trevor Carpenter, College of Southern Maryland (retired); Dr. Charlie Lyons Jr., American Association of Colleges and Universities (retired) and a committee member since 1968; Dr. Louis Fernandez, provost and vice president academic affairs, California State University, San Bernardino; Dr. Gayle Olson, University of New Orleans (retired); and Dr. Michael Glaser, St. Mary’s College (retired). The committee selected eight individuals—five dependents and three active Seafarers—as recipients of the 2013 SHBP Scholarships. An in-depth article identifying these individuals as well as the specific grants they received will be published the July edition of the Seafarers LOG. June 2013 5/24/2013 2:02:38 PM �The USNS Maury is launched during a March 27 ceremony in Moss Point, Miss. (U.S. Navy photo by David Stoltz) Crew members, vessel sponsors and Crowley President/CEO Tom Crowley Jr. celebrate the christening of the company’s newest ATB in Pascagoula, Miss. Maersk, Crowley, MSC Bring in New Tonnage America’s sealift capability and its domestic and international shipping resources each got a boost as new tonnage recently entered the Seafarers-contracted fleet. Maersk Line, Limited (MLL) early last month flagged in the first of eight containerships – the Maersk Chicago – that will replace eight older, smaller vessels. The company also added the research ship USNS Maury, christened in late March at VT Halter Marine in Moss Point, Miss. In another major maritime development, Crowley Maritime on May 3 christened its seventeenth articulated tug-barge (ATB), the Liberty/750-3. The ceremony took place at Halter’s facility in Pascagoula, Miss. The tugboat and 330,000-barrel petroleum tank barge are the final ones to be built in a more than $1 billion, decade-long ATB construction program undertaken by Crowley to expand the company’s presence in the Jones Act trade. On April 22, the Navy’s joint highspeed vessel USNS Millinocket was christened at Austal USA in Mobile, Ala. It’s the third in a planned fleet of 10 such vessels, and will be crewed in the unlicensed positions by members of the SIU Government Services Division. More recently, the Navy on May 14 accepted delivery of the mobile landing platform vessel USNS Montford Point, which will be operated by Seafarers-contracted Ocean Ships. According to the Navy, the mobile landing platform is “a new class of ship and highly flexible platform that will provide capability for large-scale logistics movements such as the transfer of light and heavy vehicles and equipment from sea to shore.” While most of the recent news has been positive when it comes to tonnage, APL announced its plans to scrap four older American-flag containerships – the President Adams, President Jackson, President Polk and President Truman. The SIU represents steward department mariners on APL ships. In announcing its upgrade of container vessels, MLL said the newer tonnage will improve “services provided to its U.S. mil- itary, government and commercial customers. MLL’s investment of approximately half a billion dollars in eight vessels will improve the quality of service to the Middle East and Mediterranean Sea from the U.S. East Coast. Since 2000, MLL has invested over $1.75 billion dollars to modernize its fleet in support of the U.S. government and military. The vessels are about 10 years younger than the outgoing ships, offering improved fuel efficiency and environmental performance.” “These eight newer vessels, along with the global transportation network that connects them, demonstrate our commitment to our customers. We are proud to serve the U.S. military and to deliver U.S. food aid worldwide,” said John Reinhart, MLL’s president and CEO. “MLL is focused on continual improvement, and these ships will further increase reliability and shrink our environmental footprint.” All eight vessels will join the Maritime Security Program (MSP) and Voluntary Intermodal Sealift Agreement (VISA). For Crowley, the company’s newest ATB punctuated a successful milestone in an effective construction program. “We set out to offer customers the safest, most reliable petroleum transportation services many years ago by pairing our operational expertise with these safe and innovative vessels,” said Tom Crowley Jr., company chairman and CEO. “It fills us with great pride and satisfaction to see our vision come to fruition, and to deliver for our customers.” More than 70 guests, including vessel crew members, representatives from VT Halter Marine and Marathon Petroleum joined Crowley for the christening, which included the time-honored tradition of breaking a champagne bottle over the hull of each vessel. Crowley’s Vice President of Procurement Wendy MacDonald had the honor of christening the tug, Liberty, while Marathon Representative Kathleen Peiffer christened the barge, 750-3. In recent months Crowley has also added two U.S.-flag, 330-000-barrel product tankers to its petroleum fleet (both crewed by SIU members). Congress Examines U.S.-Flag Shipping Members Vow to Support Key Maritime Programs; SIU Testifies Subcommittee Chairman Duncan Hunter (R-Calif.) Ranking Member John Garamendi (D-Calif.) June 2013 15046_JUNE2K13LOG_X.indd 3 The SIU was among the organizations testifying at a Congressional hearing May 21 on the important role U.S.-flag shipping and American mariners play in the country’s economic and national security. The hearing, conducted by the House Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation Subcommittee, focused on key programs including the Jones Act, Maritime Security Program (MSP), and cargo preference, including Food for Peace (PL-480). In his testimony to the committee, SIU Executive Vice President Augie Tellez said the hard work of merchant mariners is at the heart of every one of those programs, adding that it is vital those mariners have the opportunity to continue serving their country in times of need. “We’ve been a critical component of our country’s economic and national security from the founding days of the Republic.… We are always there when the balloon goes up and we hope to be there whenever the balloon goes up,” he said. “In order to do that we need to have the strong foundation of a vibrant commercial fleet. In order to maintain that, it must be a public-private partnership.” That was the opinion of the subcommittee, as well. Nearly every member – both Democrat and Republican – reinforced the idea that those key maritime programs are essential to the nation and vowed to fight any efforts to dismantle or defund them. SIU Exec. VP Augie Tellez (right) explains the vital role played by the U.S. Merchant Marine in national defense. MEBA President Mike Jewell (left) also testified. “Beyond the important contributions to our economy, a healthy maritime industry is vital to our national security,” said Chairman Rep. Duncan Hunter (R-Calif.) “Throughout our history, the Navy has relied on U.S.-flag commercial vessels crewed by American Merchant Mariners to carry troops, weapons, and supplies to the battlefield.” While they’re vital to the country’s interest, essential maritime programs like MSP, Food for Peace and the Jones Act have faced obstacles in Washington in recent months and years. Several members of the subcommittee, including Chairman Hunter and Ranking Member John GaraContinued on Page 14 Seafarers LOG 3 5/28/2013 10:55:06 AM �St. Louis Port Council Honors Three Solidarity was very evident April 27 when the Maritime Trades Department’s (MTD) Greater St. Louis Area and Vicinity Port Council honored at its 33rd annual dinner a labor representative, a business representative and an elected official – and all of them carry union cards. State Senator Gina M. Walsh received the Able Helmsmen Award for her work in the Missouri state capitol. As MTD/SIU President Michael Sacco pointed out in introducing her, “She is so passionate. She is not just friendly to the labor movement, she is part of it.” Walsh was the first woman to graduate from the Association of Heat and Frost Insulators and Allied Workers Local 1 apprenticeship program. She still holds her card after more than 30 years in the trade. She was originally elected to the Missouri House of Representatives in 2002 and was reelected every two years until she moved to the State Senate last year. She was then elected president of the Missouri Building and Construction Trades Council, AFLCIO. “I merely represent those who fight the fight for working families,” Walsh told the nearly 400 attendees. She has led battles in the state capitol against legislation aimed at cutting prevailing wage, creating rightto-work (for less), and instituting paycheck deception. “We have to show courage and common sense while steering Missouri forward,” she added. Recognized as the Labor Man of the Year was Iron Workers Local 396 Business Manager Tom McNeil Jr., who started with the local in 1973. McNeil told the gathering he didn’t have to look far to find his role model: “My hero is my dad. He was a 40-year Iron Worker, and served nine years as business manager. He died two years ago of Alzheimer’s.” McNeil noted the last five years have been tough on all working people, especially those in the building trades. He stated everyone in the room knows members who have held several part-time jobs to hold their families together. Another member of Iron Workers Local 396 received the Management Man of the Year award. Clayton Bragg is a third generation Iron Worker who saluted his family ties from West Virginia to California to the union. He was accepted into Local 396’s apprenticeship program in 1982. Seventeen years later, he started Fastrack Erectors, which Pictured from left are SIU Port Agent Becky Sleeper (who also serves as secretary-treasurer of the port council), Port Council President Dick Mantia, honoree State Senator Gina Walsh, Port Council VP Jack Martorelli, honoree Clayton Bragg, SIU/MTD President Michael Sacco, honoree Thomas McNeil and Jeff Aboussie, St. Louis Building and Construction Trades Department secretary-treasurer. has been recognized by the St. Louis Business Journal as one of the area’s fastest growing private companies. He also is president of Mid America Crane Rental. Big Port Council Turnout in Hawaii Includes Senators, Congresswoman, Mayor, Governor Gov. Neil Abercrombie SIU Port Agent Hazel Galbiso reported an excellent turnout for a late-April Hawaii Port Maritime Council event in Honolulu. Attendees included U.S. Senators Mazie Hirono and Brian Schatz, U.S. Rep. Tulsi Gabbard, Governor Neil Abercrombie, Mayor Kirk Caldwell, former Mayor Mufi Hannemann, eight Hawaii state house representatives, members of the city council, Seafarers, other trade unionists Bragg acknowledged his labor roots and his union-contracted employees by saying, “It takes strong people to keep a business strong and prosperous.” Senator Levin Honored and guests. “The success of the event wouldn’t have been possible without all of our volunteers,” noted Galbiso. “Much ‘Mahalos’ most especially to our SIU members, who constituted the vast majority of the volunteers who came to help set up and break down.” A few photos from the event appear here. More snapshots are available in the Gallery section of the SIU website and on our Facebook page. SIU VP Great Lakes Tom Orzechowski (right) was on hand to help salute U.S. Sen. Carl Levin (D-Mich.) (left) in early May as the Wayne County-Detroit Port Authority Building was renamed the Carl Levin Building. Levin, who plans to retire next year, was honored for helping launch the building project in 1998. He currently chairs the Senate Armed Services Committee. Brick Donation Program Rolls On Sen. Brian Schatz From left: Bonny Colomo of MFOW, Marc Yamane of the International Union of Elevator Constructors, Luke Kaili of MEBA, Sen. Mazie Hirono, Rep. Tulsi Gabbard, Randy Swindell of MM&P, Al Lardizabal of LIUNA, SIU Port Agent Hazel Galbiso Some of the SIU members who volunteered for the gathering are pictured manning the lunch line. 4 Seafarers LOG 15046_JUNE2K13LOG_X.indd 4 In conjunction with its affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education (PHC), the union is continuing with a brick-donation program that’s part of the waterfront restoration at the PHC’s Piney Point, Md., campus. Details were published in the last two editions of the LOG and are available online at http://www.seafarers.org/SIUBricks.htm (the link is on our home page). Samples are pictured above. Seafarers, their loved ones and the companies that employ them have the chance to donate the bricks and engrave them with text or logos of their choosing. The donation of a brick also comes with an entry in the project’s name-the-park contest. June 2013 5/28/2013 10:55:10 AM �Industry Takes Pro-Maritime Message to D.C. SIU Exec. VP Augie Tellez, Sen. David Vitter (R-La.), Crowley Exec. VP Bill Penella SIU Active in Fourth Annual Sail-In; Food for Peace a Focal Point Though only in its fourth year, the annual U.S. Maritime Industry Congressional Sail-In has become a signature event in the nation’s capital. Last month, SIU officials helped make the 2013 gathering another success, as 135 participants from all segments of the industry were involved in 157 meetings with members of the House and Senate or their staffs. Although many topics were covered in those meetings May 8 – organized by the United States Maritime Coalition, to which the SIU is affiliated – the main ones included the vital need to maintain three pillars of U.S. maritime: Food for Peace, the Maritime Security Program, and the Jones Act. The timing proved opportune as U.S.-flag maritime supporters from both sides of the aisle and from the industry itself are working to preserve cargo preference or Food for Peace, a time-tested program that is being threatened by budget cuts. Overall, 104 of the Sail-In meetings took place in the House (including 61 with freshmen members) while 53 happened in the Senate. “For many reasons, including the fact that in large part we were meeting with many more members and staff this year new to maritime issues, this was considered our best Sail-In ever,” noted one of the event’s planners. “Enthusiasm was high all around.” Representing the SIU at the meetings were Executive Vice President Augie Tellez, Vice President Gulf Coast Dean Corgey, Vice President West Coast Nick Marrone, Vice President Great Lakes Tom Orzechowski, Vice President Government Services Kermett Mangram and Vice President Atlantic Coast Joseph Soresi. The union officials described the Sail-In as a time when virtually every segment of the maritime industry comes together to brief Congress on how to make the United States stronger and safer. Working together, they pointed out, maritime personnel from the Great Lakes, inland rivers, deep seas and beyond help boost America’s national and homeland security while promoting much-needed job growth here at home. As in years past, meeting participants – including shipowners, operators and rank-and-file workers – thanked elected officials for their previous support and encouraged their continued backing of the aforementioned programs along with other maritime initiatives that protect national and economic security while promoting American jobs. In a related event, U.S. Rep. Elijah Cummings (D-Md.) on May 7 received the prestigious “Salute to Congress” award during an annual dinner in suburban D.C. SIU Representative Gerard Dhooge, Alan Twaits of Crowley, Jack Pollard of Turner Pollard, Rep. Ed Pastor (DAriz.), Bobbi Shipley of Maersk, Mark Gallagher of MEBA Mark Gallagher of MEBA, Bobbi Shipley of Maersk, Rep. Joe Kennedy (D-Mass.), Alan Twaits of Crowley, SIU Representative Gerard Dhooge, Jack Pollard of Turner Pollard Tom Harrelson of Maritime-Strategy Consulting, SIU VP Tom Orzechowski, Bryant Gardner of Winston & Strawn, Senior Legislative Asst. David Tully (office of Rep. Kay Granger, R-Texas), John Flynn of Breaux Lott Group SIU VP Kermett Mangram, Mike Neumann of Transportation Institute, Rep. Roger Williams (R-Texas), Tony Otero of Crowley, Bert Rogers of Tall Ships America Dennis Manelli of the Propeller Club, Ira Douglas of Crowley, MTD Sec.-Treas. Daniel Duncan, Rep. Scott Peters (D-Calif.), SIU VP Dean Corgey John Hourihan of Crowley, SIU VP Nick Marrone, Rep. Paul Cook (R-Calif.), Dave Weathers of AMO, Chris Coakley of Saltchuk Resources, Nick Martine of Lockheed Martin Dennis Manelli of the Propeller Club, Ira Douglas of Crowley, SIU VP Dean Corgey, Rep. Steve Palazzo (R-Miss.), MTD Sec-Treas. Daniel Duncan, Ian Bennitt of Shipbuilders Council of America June 2013 15046_JUNE2K13LOG.indd 5 John Jaskot of Jones Walker, Kate Ballengee of Metro Group Maritime, Rich Berkowitz of Transportation Institute, Rep. Adam Smith (D-Wash.), SIU VP Joseph Soresi, Don Josberger of MM&P John Hourihan of Crowley, SIU VP Nick Marrone, Rep. Mike Conaway (R-Texas), Dave Weathers of AMO, Nick Martine of Lockheed Martin Seafarers LOG 5 5/24/2013 2:02:50 PM �President Nominates Foxx for Transportation Secretary Cabinet Post Has Big Impact on American-Flag Maritime Industry President Barack Obama has selected Charlotte Mayor Anthony Foxx to be the next secretary of transportation – a post that greatly impacts the maritime industry. If confirmed, Foxx would succeed outgoing Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood. The position of transportation secretary is especially important to the SIU since the Department of Transportation houses the U.S. Maritime Administration. Foxx has served as Charlotte’s mayor since 2009 and has spearheaded several transportation projects since taking office. He previously held positions in the U.S. Justice Department and with the House Judiciary Committee. In a statement following Foxx’s nomination, SIU President Michael Sacco, who also serves as president of the AFLCIO’s Maritime Trades Department (MTD), praised LaHood’s service as transportation secretary, adding he anticipated a productive relationship with Foxx as well. “The MTD would like to thank Secretary LaHood for his many years as service in Congress and in the executive branch,” Sacco said. “We also look forward to working with Mayor Foxx in meeting the serious challenges facing the maritime industry and other modes of transportation in the years ahead. We believe that Mayor Foxx has a chance to really make a difference.” Obama, meanwhile, applauded Foxx’s infrastructure projects and job-creation record in Charlotte when announcing his nomination April 29 at the White House. The president added that experience would serve Foxx well at the Department of Transportation. “The city (of Charlotte) has managed to turn things around. The economy is growing. There are more jobs, more opportunity,” Obama said. “And if you ask Anthony how that happened, he’ll tell you that one of the reasons is that Charlotte made one of the largest investments in transportation in the city’s history.” Foxx, who would be the young- President Obama (left) announces the nomination of Charlotte Mayor Anthony Foxx (middle) as the next transportation secretary at the White House as outgoing Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood looks on. (White House photo) est member of the president’s cabinet, said he looked forward to working with members of both parties in an effort to improve the country’s transportation system. Admiral Shannon Assumes Command at MSC Rear Adm. Thomas Shannon is the new commander of the Military Sealift Command (MSC). Shannon relieved Rear Adm. Mark H. Buzby of the post May 10 during a change of command ceremony aboard the Seafarers-crewed USNS Spearhead at Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek in Fort Story, Va. Gen. William M. Fraser III, commander, U.S. Transportation Command and Adm. William Gortney, commander, U.S. Fleet Forces, served as guest speakers during the event. SIU President Michael Sacco, SecretaryTreasurer David Heindel and Vice President Government Services Division Kermett Mangram represented the union at the ceremony. A native of Calais, Maine, Shannon is a 1982 graduate of Maine Maritime Academy. He holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Nautical Science, and was commissioned through the Naval Reserve Officers Training Corps program. The admiral attended the Naval War College and received a Master of Arts degree in National Security and Strategic Studies in March 1998. Shannon became MSC’s 26th commander following his last tour of duty as commander, Carrier Strike Group One in San Diego, Calif. The admiral’s at-sea assignments include tours aboard USS Jack Williams, USS Nicholson and USS Boone. His afloat staff duty includes chief staff officer in Destroyer Squadron 14 and surface operations officer in Cruiser Destroyer Group 12. He was also commanding officer of USS De Wert, commanding officer of USS Vicksburg and air defense commander for the John F. Kennedy Battle Group. The admiral’s military decorations include the Defense Superior Service Medal, Legion of Merit, Meritorious Service Medal, Joint Service Commendation Medal, Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal, Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal, and various service medals and unit awards. “Thank you for your trust in me and my ability to lead this critical command,” said Rear Adm. Shannon during his address to those who attended ceremony. “I am passionate about our important mission, I am honored and humbled by your trust, and will strive constantly to deserve it.” Admiral Buzby, a native of Atlantic City, N.J., assumed command of MSC in Oct. 2009 and ensured ready logistics support for carrier strike groups, expeditionary strike groups and ground force commanders operating forward every day. 6 Seafarers LOG 15046_JUNE2K13LOG_X.indd 6 Rear Adm. Thomas Shannon (left) and Rear Adm. Mark Buzby congratulate each other during a change of command ceremony aboard the USNS Spearhead (JSHV 1). Shannon relieved Buzby as commander, Military Sealift Command. (U.S. Navy Photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Apprentice Jesse A. Hyatt) While under Buzby’s command, MSC ships – many crewed by SIU members – delivered services, supplies and equipment to all branches of the U.S. military and their combatant commanders around the world, including support to Operations Iraqi Freedom, Enduring Freedom, Unified Response in Haiti (2010) and Tomodachi in Japan (2011). He also led the command through a worldwide reorganization, “One MSC,” that streamlined operations, eliminated duplication and improved efficiency – ultimately saving the Navy millions in personnel costs over the next 10 years. MSC also supported the successful planning and conversion of USS Ponce to an interim afloat forward staging base in 2012 and accepted delivery of the remaining T-AKE class, a new missile range instrumentation vessel and the first-ever joint high-speed vessel (USNS Spearhead) on-time and on-budget during Buzby’s tenure. “It’s been an honor and privilege of a lifetime to serve as the commander of MSC and represent this team of sailors, civilian mariners, and shore-based civil ser- vants who are truly the lifeline of support for our Navy and military worldwide,” said Admiral Buzby. SIU President Michael Sacco (left) is pictured with Gen. William Fraser III, commander, U.S. Transportation Command, at the ceremony near Norfolk, Va. “There is no such thing as a Democratic or Republican road, bridge, port, air field or rail system,” Foxx said. “We must work together across party lines to enhance this nation’s infrastructure.” Maritime Community Raises Casualty Report Concerns The international maritime community is raising concerns about the failure of certain flag states to submit reports on maritime casualties that are required by international conventions. In a joint submission to the International Maritime Organization (IMO), the International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF) and International Chamber of Shipping (ICS) called on the IMO to consider the issue at its next Maritime Safety Commission meeting in June. The IMO is an agency within the United Nations that addresses safety and security within the international maritime community. ITF Acting General Secretary Stephen Cotton said the issue is of grave importance, adding a lack of casualty reporting by some flag states could endanger mariners in the future. “The lack of investigation and accident reports hinders the development of appropriate measures by the IMO to address the cause of serious accidents in which seafarers may have lost their lives,” Cottons aid. ICS Secretary General Peter Hinchliffe added, “It also frustrates efforts by ship operators to learn from the reports and to amend or develop new procedures, or implement other measures to prevent or mitigate similar future accidents.” Vessels are required by various maritime conventions – including the Safety of Life at Sea Convention (SOLAS) – to submit reports following a “very serious marine casualty.” Those situations include a death, the loss of a ship or severe damage to the environment. Under SOLAS, maritime administrations undertake investigations into any casualties occurring to ships under their flag and supply the IMO with information on the findings of those investigations. A high-profile example of the casualty reporting problem could be seen recently with the case of the cruise ship Costa Concordia in Italy. Thirty-two people were killed in January 2012 when the ship hit a reef off the shore of Tuscany, Italy. While flag states are required to submit casualty reports within one year, Italy is set to submit its final report on the Concordia 18 months after the incident. The ITF and ICS have emphasized giving greater consideration to what could be considered a “very serious marine casualty” and how much latitude certain flag states have in determining if the results of an investigation should be handed over to the IMO. June 2013 5/28/2013 10:55:12 AM �Washington Urged to Support Merchant Marine Support for the U.S. Merchant Marine is swelling in Washington, D.C., as lawmakers and other leaders are reminded of how important the American fleet is to the country’s national and economic security. In letters to Congressional leaders and editorials in Washington newspapers, powerful supporters of the U.S. Merchant Marine are rejecting proposed cuts and changes to key maritime programs and legislation. From protecting the country’s Food for Peace initiative and the Jones Act, to fighting against proposed cuts to the Maritime Security Program (MSP), the maritime industry’s prominent allies are working to make sure the U.S.-flag fleet continues to receive the support it deserves. One of the most vocal allies was House Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation Subcommittee Chairman Rep. Duncan Hunter (R-Calif.). In an editorial appearing in the Washington Times, Hunter emphasized the need to support the MSP and the Jones Act. The Jones Act helps ensure there’s an available U.S. merchant fleet and reliable U.S. mariners by stipulating that only vessels built, flagged, owned and crewed American transport goods between American ports. The MSP, meanwhile, provides operational support to 60 militarily useful ships that enable them to meet the country’s national security needs. Not supporting these programs, Hunter wrote, would be detrimental to the country especially as tensions remain high between the United States and North Korea in the Pacific. “The fewer number of commercial vessels that are available to supplement military transport add to the strain of an already reduced and undersized naval fleet. With emerging threats to the Pacific, the support provided through the Maritime Security Program is essential,” he wrote. “In continuing the program, Congress must look ahead and consider policies that support the growth of the U.S. fleet to alleviate pressure on limited naval resources.” Hunter went on to discuss the economic importance of the U.S.-flag fleet. “Equally important, the U.S. domestic fleet carries more than a billion tons in cargo each year and contributes $100 billion in economic output. The fleet is U.S. owned, U.S. built and U.S. crewed, carrying grains, coal, iron ore, limestone and petroleum through inland waterways, across the Great Lakes and along the coasts,” he wrote. “The fleet consists of 40,000-plus tankers, barges, tugboats and offshore support vessels, many of which have been owned by family businesses that have been in the maritime industry for decades.” Another prominent industry ally – the Navy League of the United States – took on the Obama administration’s proposed changes to the nation’s Food for Peace program and urged Congressional leaders to reject those changes as well. Food for Peace, which ships American-grown food on American-crewed vessels to countries in need, has been a vital tool of American diplomacy and national defense, and currently helps sustain more than 44,000 American jobs. Under the administration’s proposed 2014 budget, the program would essentially be dismantled. “The proposed elimination of this important program will significantly undermine the U.S.-flag Merchant Marine and our national defense sealift capability,” wrote the Navy League in a letter to leaders in both the House and Senate. “The United States Merchant Marine has been a necessary part of our national independence of action since the founding of our nation.” The Navy League added the U.S. Merchant Marine has been especially important in recent years. More than 95 percent of the cargoes shipped to support the conflicts in Afghanistan and Iraq during the last 10 years were carried on U.S.-flag commercial and government ships crewed by American mariners. “Because we can rely upon the U.S.-flag commercial Union’s New Clinic System Offers More Convenience “Our new clinic system continues to move forward,” said Vice President Contracts George Tricker. “With each passing day, glitches and obstacles are becoming an exception. Once we overcome these isolated impediments which naturally occur when a project of this magnitude is implemented, the membership will benefit greatly from the flexibility these new services will afford them.” Tricker emphasized that while the new system is not yet operating at peak efficiency, members can take certain steps that would enhance the entire operation. These include: n Starting the process early. You are able to request services 60 days prior to the expiration of your current clinic card. You can initiate the services by contacting your local port. In the near future you will be able to start the process by ordering the services through your Member Portal account. You no longer need paperwork issued by the port to take to the clinic, so you don’t have to be onsite to start the process. n Allowing the process to work. After requesting services please wait 24 hours for CHSi to contact you. Seafarers have been contacting CHSi directly right away, which means that the CHSi schedulers have to stop the normal The SIU and the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan (SHBP) earlier this year entered into an agreement with Cape Canaveral, Fla.-based Comprehensive Health Services (CHSi) to provide members with a more extensive network for clinic services. CHSi’s larger network almost always offers members access to clinics closer to their homes for annual exams, functional capacity evaluations and interval exams. According to union and plan officials, although some difficulties have been identified with the new system, resounding positive feedback continues to be registered by the rank-and-file membership. Talkin’ Maritime with U.S. Representative Debbie Wasserman Schultz A meeting between representatives from the South Florida labor community and U.S. Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz (D-Fla.) (left) took place April 29 in Miami, at a local Sheet Metal Workers hall. SIU Ft. Lauderdale Port Agent Kris Hopkins (right) took the opportunity to mention to the congresswoman how important America’s Food for Peace program is to both the U.S. Merchant Marine and working families, in addition to boosting international relations. Wasserman Schultz serves on the House Appropriations Committee and on the on State and Foreign Operations Subcommittee. June 2013 15046_JUNE2K13LOG.indd 7 Pictured at a recent gathering in Washington, D.C., are (from left) SIU President Michael Sacco, Rep. Duncan Hunter (D-Calif.) and SIU Political and Legislative Director Brian Schoeneman. fleet, our nation achieves significant savings by not having to replicate those 100 commercial ships in international trade and 11,500 mariners with federal assets,” the Navy League wrote. “To recreate the capacity it obtains from the U.S.-flag commercial industry, the Department of Defense would have to incur an additional $9 billion in capital costs and $1 billion in annual operating costs.” Those savings, the Navy League wrote, more than make up for the costs of continuing the Food for Peace program. “Leveraging the private fleet is a good deal for the taxpayer, and certainly offsets any putative savings to be achieved under the administration’s proposed (Food for Peace) elimination scheme,” the Navy League wrote. order of things and put you ahead of Seafarers that have been waiting to be contacted. This causes the whole system to back up. CHSi had been experiencing a delay of three days in scheduling exams. In response they have added staff and are current in these communications. n Trying to stick with your scheduled appointment. The flexibility that is offered by the expanded network allows for you to have services in a variety of locations. Please plan accordingly, keeping in mind that the entire process of scheduling exams through the return of your medical clearance takes between one to two weeks. n Expedited exams should be rare. The system as it is designed provides a larger network as well as consistency and quality of exams. In order to achieve these goals it requires central routing of requests and medical records. If you truly have a need for an expedited exam it is best to work with your port official and our medical department to get your needs met. “We will continue to monitor and adjust the process as we move along to make it work as efficiently and effectively as possible,” Tricker said. “In the meantime we ask for the continued patience and support of our entire membership.” Kudos to Intrepid’s Steward Dept. Vessel Master Kyle J. Hamill of the Sea-Land Intrepid said in a recent message to the LOG that the ship’s steward department “has gone above and beyond in their duties. They have all put in the extra effort to provide a high level of food service to the crew and have worked hard to maintain a high standard of appearance in their work space. They are all good shipmates, creating a friendly and welcoming environment during meal times and their positive attitudes are appreciated by all on board.” Pictured from left to right are Chief Cook Thalis Ealy, SA Jennie Recaido and Recertified Steward Roderick Clay. The Seafarers also recently earned a cash award as part of vessel operator Maersk Line, Limited’s ongoing safety program. Seafarers LOG 7 5/24/2013 2:02:54 PM �Coast Guard Approves Piney Point STCW Courses Paul Hall Center Stays Ahead of Upcoming Training Requirements The path to rewarding maritime careers looks smoother for entry-level students at the SIU-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md., following recent course approvals from the U.S. Coast Guard’s National Maritime Center (NMC). The Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education (PHC) is believed to be the first school to receive NMC approval for courses leading to (respectively) the new able seafarerdeck and able seafarer-engine endorsements. Those endorsements stem from the most recent amendments to the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers, abbreviated as STCW. The amendments commonly are called the Manila amendments; they were approved by signatory nations, including the U.S., in 2010. The course approvals are especially important to individuals entering the industry beginning July 1. Without acquiring assessments or passing approved curriculums, it will be much more difficult to ac- quire the able seafarer-deck (AS-D) or able seafarer-engine (AS-E) ratings, noted J.C. Wiegman, director of training at the PHC. “The benefits are really for newcomers at this point,” Wiegman stated. “Most current mariners will be grandfathered to meet the requirements for sailing on international voyages as they renew their documents, and they have until the year 2017 to comply anyway. That’s part of the transitional provisions of the Manila amendments. But if you’re just getting started, going through our apprentice program is the way to go.” The 2010 amendments establish new endorsements and revise other existing endorsements, according to the Coast Guard. The AS-D endorsement requires additional training and assessments, while AS-E also requires some additional assessments. The training and assessments are included in the newly approved courses. In order to help meet the requirements for the new ratings, the PHC has modified parts of several classes including ratings forming part of a navigational watch (RFPNW), tanker-dangerous liquids, ABlimited, social responsibilities, and others. Hands-on training, already a staple of most classes at the southern Maryland campus, will become even more of a focal point. For example, the school has further incorporated maintenance of deck equipment and machinery, occupational health and safety precautions, pollution prevention, and shipboard maintenance and repair including hatch covers and increased awareness of bridge equipment. Meanwhile, according to the applicable Coast Guard policy letter, current mariners may be considered to have qualified for the AS-D endorsement if they have served as AB or RFPNW for at least 12 months within the 60 months prior to application for the endorsement, or if they already hold an endorsement as AB-Any Waters/Unlimited, or AB-Limited and also hold or qualify for STCW endorsements as RFPNW (without a restriction to lookout duties only) and proficiency in survival craft, proficiency in survival craft-limited, and rescue boats other than fast rescue boats. Mariners holding AB-Special endorsements may qualify for the AS-D endorsement as long as they have accumulated six or 12 months of additional sea service, depending on certain variables. Similarly, mariners may be considered to have qualified for the AS-E endorsement if they have served as any QMED or as a rating forming part of an engineering watch (RFPEW) for at least 12 months within the 60 months prior to application for the endorsement, or if they hold or qualify for a QMED endorsement as an engineman or deck engine mechanic and also hold or qualify for STCW endorsements as RFPEW. Again, mariners who started sailing prior to July 1 of this year (and who remain current on their documents) have several years before they must comply with the requirements for these new ratings, and most will be able to secure the new endorsements simply by showing proof of relevant sea time when they renew their documents. Members Receive Union Books in Piney Point In recent months, a number of SIU members picked up their respective B-seniority membership books at the union hall in Piney Point, Md. Some of those Seafarers are pictured here. Additional photos of book presentations in Piney Point will be published in upcoming issues of the LOG. Laurence Valerio, Port Agent Pat Vandegrift Mark Santoli, Pat Vandegrift 8 Seafarers LOG 15046_JUNE2K13LOG.indd 8 Troy Smith, Pat Vandegrift Joshua Hammons, Russell Bravo, Mana Muhsen Maximo Aguiran, Pat Vandegrift Lamond Fulton, Pat Vandegrift Sheryl Farmer, Pat Vandegrift, Kevin Hunt June 2013 5/24/2013 2:02:58 PM �Among those pictured are: OS Rob Marcel, ACP Edwin Salada, AB Steve Fuentes, AB Brandon Simken, EGRM James Crosby, Recertified Bosun Rene Govico, ACP Jose Salaga, ACP Leo Malolos, AB Bill Carney, AB Gary Hunt, AB Roland Dinong, ACP Remy Pao, OS Dominador Hugo, AB Frank Estupinan, AB Rudy Antonio, ACP Leo Viernes, OS Dominador Diaz, OS Sam Javier and EGRM Sure Anitak. The Pride of America docks in Pearl Harbor, Hawaii. Seafarers Ably Crew The Pride of America Seafarers aboard NCL America’s Pride of America sent in these photos of the SIU crew aboard the only deep-sea U.S.-flag cruise ship. During a mid-March meeting aboard the ship, which sails around the Hawaiian Islands, mariners discussed the importance of supporting SPAD (the union’s voluntary political action fund) and upgrading at the SIU-affiliated schools in Honolulu and Piney Point, Md. From left in photo at left are OS Dominador Diaz, AB Steve Fuentes, Recertified Bosun Rene Govico and OS Alan Boiser. Pictured in the photo directly below (from left) are AB Florito Alegado, Recertified Bosun Rene Govico and AB Roland Dinong. Pride of America tenders are pictured in Kona. From left: Unlicensed Apprentice Cody Kingsford, Recertified Bosun Rene Govico and Unlicensed Apprentice Joshua Rawls. Recertified Bosun Rene Govico enjoying time off. Aboard the Horizon Producer AB Quintin Herrera June 2013 15046_JUNE2K13LOG.indd 9 Recertified Steward Kristin Krause, AB Kendra Savage Seafarers including UA Anthony Ellison enjoy the spoils of some offtime fishing. Seafarers LOG 9 5/24/2013 2:03:01 PM �Inaugural Seafarers Watrerfront Classic Sponsors’ Generosity Yields Huge Dividends Classic Benefits Wounded Warrior Anglers, Helps Improve Training Environment at PHC I deal weather and aggressive fish translated into a banner day for anglers who put their skills to the test during the inaugural Seafarers Waterfront Classic. Held April 24 at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education (PHC) in Piney Point, Md., the event, which benefitted the Wounded Warrior Anglers of America and the Paul Hall Center Waterfront Project, was a huge success. Nearly all of the participants—96 in all who fished from 11 boats—landed their legal limits of their quarry for the day (Striped Bass, AKA Rock Fish). Many catches tipped the scales in excess of 25 pounds and measured well over the minimum legal limit of 28 inches. As a group, the anglers landed 76 fish with a combined weight of 1,600 pounds. The angler of the day, the fisherman who landed the largest Striped Bass, was Simeon Taylor. Fishing from aboard the Miss Evelyn, Taylor reeled in his award winning catch which tipped the scales at 38.40 pounds. Each of the 11 boats ferried designated angler teams to their respective fishing locations. Each team was comprised of at least one sponsored operator, union official and wounded warrior angler. This composition was done by design, according to SIU VP Contract George Tricker, who served as the classic’s chairman. “Our intent was to promote brotherhood, fellowship, and camaraderie among participants in an effort honor those who served our country so proudly,” he said. “That pairing proved to be highly productive as evidenced by the number of fish that were caught, the trophies that were awarded and the smiles that were etched on the faces of the anglers. “It was a tremendous tournament,” Tricker continued. “We realized all of fundraising goals and in the process fostered what promises to be a long-lasting bond of friendship between the Paul Hall Center and the Wounded Warrior Anglers of America. We also managed to get off to a good start in paying down the debt for the beautiful new waterfront that accents the Paul Hall Center, a resource that will train merchant mariners for decades to come.” When asked about the classic’s future, Tricker was matter-of-fact. “Based on the feedback I have received so far from our contracted operators, our allies from the Wounded Warrior Anglers (who sent a letter of appreciation to SIU President Michael Sacco) and other participants, the classic is destined to become an annual event that will benefit all concerned,” he said. VP Contracts George Tricker (left) served as chairman, Seafarers Waterfront Classic. With Tricker is Phillip W.J. Fisher, chairman, Seafarers Waterfront Project. SIU Plans Administrator Maggie Bowen (photo inset above) sends anglers on their way. One of the classic’s teams shows off a portion of their catch for the day (photo above), while SIU President Michael Sacco (right) and Paul Hall Center VP Don Nolan (photo at immediate right) look on. Marine Master Sgt. Paul Starner of the Wounded Warrior Anglers places his catch on the scales for weigh-in. 10 Seafarers LOG 15046_JUNE2K13LOG_X.indd 10 Beverly Watkins records the particulars of an angler’s catch on the classic’s big board. Simeon Taylor poses with catch of 38.40 pounds, the classic’s largest fish. June 2013 5/28/2013 10:55:20 AM �Inaugural Seafarers Watrerfront Classic Ed Hanley, vice president, Labor Relations, Maersk Line, Limited. Hanley served as co-chairman of the Seafarers Waterfront Classic and was a company sponsor. SIU VP Great Lakes and Inland Waters Tom Orzechowski Dependent Jake Senatore David Aud (left) and David Hammett perform the unenviable task of filleting the 1,600 pounds of fish (some of which are pictured in the photo at left) caught by anglers during the classic. Preparing some of the catch for the fish fry/awards banquet (photo at right) is Chief Steward Upgrader Vincent Igneri. President Sacco addressed classic participants during the fish fry/award banquet. Tournament Winner Simeon Taylor Members of the Wounded Warrior Anglers of America joined union officials and classic organizers for the photo above during the classic’s award banquet. Pictured from left to right are Phillip W.J. Fisher, chairman, Seafarers Waterfront Project, Damian Bunting, Rudy Wilson, SIU President Michael Sacco, Natalie Sayles, MSgt. Paul Starner, James Villa and SIU VP Contracts George Tricker, who served as chairman of the Seafarers Waterfront Classic. Not pictured but present at the classic is Wounded Warrior Angler Jason Gorton. Company Sponsor John Mason (left) and VP Tricker The Maersk Line, Limited team claimed honors for the largest catch (team) award. Pictured above (from left) are: Wayne Solomon, MSgt. Paul Starner of the Wounded Warrior Anglers, Matt Frank, Rolf Pedersen, Ed Hanley, VP Tricker, Dennis Houghton and Sean Kline. June 2013 15046_JUNE2K13LOG_X.indd 11 SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel (left) poses with his son, David Heindel Jr. Seafarers LOG 11 5/28/2013 10:55:28 AM �SIU President Michael Sacco (left), SIU Executive VP Augie Tellez, SIU VP Contracts George Tricker, MTD Secretary-Treasurer Daniel Duncan and (sixth from left) SIU Legislative Director Brian Schoeneman. Rear Adm. Thomas Shannon Commander, Military Sealift Command Vice Adm. Mark Harnitchek Director, Defense Logistics Agency U.S. Representative John Garamendi (D-Calif.) Nation Honors Merchant Mariners The nation’s capital paused May 22 to honor the bravery and dedication of the U.S. Merchant Marine in a pair of ceremonies celebrating National Maritime Day. The events took place at the Department of Transportation and featured the heads of the Military Sealift Command (MSC), the Department of Transportation and the Maritime Administration, among other high-ranking Washington leaders. SIU headquarters officials were also present, as were several dozen trainees from the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education. The audience, which included SIU President Michael Sacco, Executive Vice President Augie Tellez and Vice President Contracts George Tricker, heard from keynote speaker Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood and several other officials about the storied history of the U.S. Merchant Marine and the possibilities for its future. “I want to thank each one of you for being here today and supporting the maritime industry – one of the strongest industries in our economy, one of the strongest industries in America,” LaHood said. While the history of the merchant marine was celebrated throughout the day, U.S. Rep. John Garamendi (D-Calif.) used his speech to address the current challenges facing the U.S.-flag fleet and called on Washington to implement policies to strengthen its future. “The Jones Act continues to come under attack by critics, despite the fact that Jones Act trades constitute a substantial component of U.S. shipyard activity, which as everyone here knows, is a necessity to maintain our national defense capability,” he said. “Cargo preference requirements continue to be whittled away, if not ignored, by federal agencies as if these requirements were a hindrance and not the law of the land.” Under the Jones Act, all cargo shipped between American ports is required to travel on American-built, U.S.-flag vessels crewed by American citizens. Cargo preference, which guarantees a certain percentage of U.S.produced aid, such as food, water, and medical supplies, is shipped on U.S.-flag vessels, was recently cut by Congress in a last-minute back-room deal related to a transportation bill. Garamendi, who is the ranking member on the House Subcommittee on Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation, said that attacking those key maritime programs could only hurt the country’s economy and national security. “Not only does this reduce the number of job opportunities for U.S. seafarers, it denies important cargoes to U.S. carriers, which also provide invaluable sealift capabilities when our armed forces are deployed abroad,” he said. “We should take steps to enhance and grow cargoes for American ships.” Garamendi added that Maritime Day would be the perfect beginning for an effort dedicated to strengthening the U.S. Merchant Marine and preserving the country’s sealift capability. “This year we would be wise to examine how we can reinvigorate the U.S.-flagged fleet, what we might do to rebuild and expand U.S. shipbuilding capacity and what we can do to ensure that American maritime transportation remains prominent in the discussion of our national freight policy,” he said. Vice Adm. Mark D. Harnitchek, director of the Defense Logistics Agency, could certainly attest to the importance of U.S. Merchant Mariners to the armed forces. He spent much of his speech discussing the important role the U.S. merchant fleet plays in hauling much-needed supplies to soldiers in battle zones. “It’s not just about the machines, it’s about the capability. And the capability you guys bring to the fight is eye-watering and awe-inspiring,” he said. “I sleep very well at night knowing that we can give you guys a mission and you’ll somehow figure it out.” Harnitchek added the benefits of the U.S. Merchant Marine were monetary as well. The services provided by merchant mariners for 12 Seafarers LOG 15046_JUNE2K13LOG_X.indd 12-13 President Obama Issues Proclamation For 2013 Maritime Day Through every chapter of the American story, ordinary men and women have accomplished extraordinary things as members of the United States Merchant Marine. When the idea of America depended on the success of a revolution, mariners took on the world’s most powerful navy and helped secure our future as a sovereign Nation. In the decades since, they have sustained critical supply lines for our troops abroad – at times enduring profound losses to keep our sea lanes open. And through war and peace alike, the Merchant Marine has driven our economic growth by shipping our products all around the world. On National Maritime Day, we honor the generations of mariners who have served and sacrificed to make our country what it is today. To keep America moving forward in the 21st century, we need to expand trade and commerce that creates good jobs for our people. Businesses in every corner of our country are stepping up to meet that challenge, ramping up manufacturing and selling more goods and services overseas. As they do, our Merchant Marine is making sure our products get wherever they need to go -- from ports here at home to new markets halfway across the globe. Their work is essential to growing our economy, and my Administration remains committed to getting our mariners the support they need to carry out their mission. Whether equipping our service members in the theater of war or guiding our maritime industry in the calm of peace, the United States Merchant Marine has helped keep America strong for more than two centuries. Let us mark this day by reflecting on that legacy of service, honoring the men and women who forged it, and saluting the proud mariners who carry it forward today. The Congress, by a joint resolution approved May 20, 1933, has designated May 22 of each year as “National Maritime Day,” and has authorized and requested the President to issue annually a proclamation calling for its appropriate observance. NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of America, do hereby proclaim May 22, 2013, as National Maritime Day. I call upon the people of the United States to mark this observance and to display the flag of the United States at their homes and in their communities. I also request that all ships sailing under the American flag dress ship on that day. IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this twenty-first day of May, in the year of our Lord two thousand thirteen, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-seventh. Continued on Page 14 Posing with the Maritime Day Wreath (left to right) are U.S. Representative John Garamendi (D-Calif.), U.S. Maritime Administrator David Matsuda, Unlicensed Apprentice William Russell, PO1 Brian Panelo, Rear Adm. Thomas Shannon, commander, Military Sealift Command and Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood. Honorable Ray LaHood Secretary of Transportation The 2013 National Maritime Day Observance at the U.S. Department of Transportation was attended by more than 100 people (large group photo above) from various segments of the U.S. maritime community. Key segments of the observance included the ringing of Eight Bells by Unlicensed Apprentice Edward Grant ( directly above), the playing of Taps by MU1 Brandon Almargo of the U.S. Navy Band (center photo) and the Retiring of the Colors by members of the U.S. Navy Ceremonial Guard (right). June 2013 June 2013 BARACK OBAMA Seafarers LOG 13 5/28/2013 11:18:41 AM �Gen. William Fraser III Commander, TRANSCOM Rear Adm. Thomas Shannon, commander, Military Sealift Command (right) and Deputy Maritime Administrator Chip Jaenichen participate in a rousing round of applause that was directed to a contingent of unlicensed apprentices from the union-affiliated Paul Hall Center who participated in the Maritime Day Ceremony. Nation’s Capital Honors Merchant Marine Continued from Page 12 the military would cost the government several billions of dollars to reproduce on its own. “As far as I’m concerned, this is about the best bottom line you could ask for,” he said. Honoring merchant mariners who have helped the country throughout the years, MSC Commander Rear Adm. Thomas Shannon presented a special wreath during the ceremony bearing the names of more than 400 retired and active mariners who had died in the past year. Shannon singled out several of the mari- Rear Adm. Wendi Carpenter President, SUNY Maritime College ners listed, including GUDE Mike Andrucovici of the SIU. “Great merchant mariners like Brother Mike … have contributed to our prosperity, security and independence since 1776,” Shannon said. “Today, they still move combat equipment in support of our brave men and women on the ground in a dangerous country called Afghanistan.” Following Shannon’s speech, Paul Hall Center Unlicensed Apprentice Michael Pinnisi was among those tending the wreath, while fellow Unlicensed Apprentice Edward Grant rang eight bells in honor of the departed mariners. While merchant mariners were celebrated for their wartime reliability, SUNY Maritime College President Rear Adm. Wendi Carpenter reminded the audience of the good American mariners do during times of domestic crisis. In the wake of the devastation brought on by Hurricane Sandy late last year, SUNY Maritime College served as a staging ground for relief and recovery workers in the New York Area. The SIU-crewed ships SS Wright, TS Kennedy and TS Empire State were part of that effort, housing and feeding recovery workers for several weeks after the storm. Carpenter, meanwhile, said such actions are the hallmark of the U.S. Merchant Marine. “The spirit of the mariner is one of service,” she said. “Teamwork and that dedication to service know no boundaries.” Other speakers at the Maritime Day celebrations included Maritime Administrator David Matsuda, U.S. Merchant Marine Academy Superintendent Rear Adm. Jim Helis and FEMA National Capital Region Director Steward Beckham. Rear Adm. Joseph Servidio, SIU Executive VP Augie Tellez, U.S. Representative John Garamendi (DCalif.) and SIU President Michael Sacco. 14 Seafarers LOG 15046_JUNE2K13LOG_X.indd 14 Union Explains Importance Of Key Maritime Programs Continued from Page 3 mendi (D-Calif.), said they wanted the hearing to help Congress determine what it could do to help these programs. Addressing the witnesses, Garamendi said the programs currently on the books do much to ensure the country maintains a strong merchant marine, though he added those programs need to be protected and supported by the government. “We really have all the elements of a strategic plan, they’re just not pulled together in a way that directs the U.S. government,” he said. “What else do we need to do?” Tellez responded that Congress could do a lot by simply strengthening and enforcing the programs that are currently in place and fending off future attacks. It would be helpful if Congress “really put some teeth into the laws that exist,” he said, adding that a longer-term approach and the support of emerging shipping technologies would have a significant impact. “Instead of looking at fiscal-year terms or even five-year terms, for the security of this nation and the security of the U.S. Merchant Marine, you have to look at 10- and 20-year terms.” Though each program represents a different component of a multi-faceted industry, they all serve to strengthen America’s national security by helping maintain a fleet of American vessels crewed by reliable American mariners. That was echoed by those testifying in the hearing, including Gen. William Fraser III, commander of the U.S. Transportation Command (USTRANSCOM). “The maintenance of a merchant marine is critical to our ability to meet the requirements we’ve laid out. They would man those ships for us in a time of emergency response,” Fraser said. “Our total force team of men and women, both military and civilian, are dedicated to providing reliable, seamless, logistical support to our war fighters and their families around the globe. USTRANSCOM could not accomplish this without the capability provided by the United States strategic sealift fleet and our steadfast merchant mariners.” Those on the commercial shipping side of maritime were equality emphatic about the importance of a strong merchant marine. Kirby Corporation CEO Joseph Pyne and NASSCO President Fred Harris said a viable fleet and manpower pool, and the knowledge that key maritime programs would stay in place, would help keep the country safe and Americans at work. MEBA President Mike Jewell also testified and echoed those sentiments. Spurred by the recent revelation by the Obama administration that its proposed 2014 budget would drastically diminish the country’s Food for Peace program, several committee members made it known that policy wouldn’t move forward without a fight. Providing more than 44,000 jobs to American mariners and other U.S. workers while also spreading American goodwill and saving lives around the world, the Food for Peace program has provided food to countries in need for nearly 60 years. It also boosts U.S. national security by ensuring American-flag ships are available with well-trained mariners on board. “The president’s restructuring of Food for Peace will eliminate a vital program for our farmers, put U.S. mariners out of work, and undermine our national security by cutting the domestic sealift capacity on which our military depends,” Hunter said. “I hope my colleagues will join me in rejecting this misguided proposal.” They did. Rep. Janice Hahn (D-Calif.), for one, said the maritime industry’s recent “Sail-In” event – which focused on educating members of Congress on maritime issues – would help fend off the attacks on Food for Peace and other programs. “We completely disagree with the administration’s attempt to restructure the Food for Peace Program,” she said. “I have serious concerns with what this could mean for our maritime workers.” June 2013 5/28/2013 10:55:34 AM �3 Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan Issues Notice to Participants The Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan reminds all participants that since January 1, 2011, the Plan has offered health coverage to children between the ages of 19 and 25, regardless of whether the child is a full-time student. Your child does not have to live with you or be supported by you to be eligible for coverage from the Plan; however, you must provide a notarized affidavit which certifies that your child does not have other health coverage. If your child is about to turn 19, you must send the Plan a completed Enrollment Form and Affidavit for Dependent Child in order to maintain your child’s cover- age. If the Plan does not receive this form by your child’s 19th birthday, your child will lose coverage from the Plan. Coverage will not be reinstated until the first of the month following the month in which the Plan receives the form. The Enrollment Form and Affidavit for Dependent Child is available at www.seafarers. org, under the Member Benefits Section. You must click on the link for the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan. The Plan will also mail this form to you upon request. If you have any questions about the form or about enrolling your child, you may contact the Claims Department at 1-800252-4674. Personal Retiree John L. Gibbons Jr. Ellen Gibbons asks that you contact her concerning Richard Gibbons. She may be reached by phone at (347) 985-1124 or (347) 5814778. July & August 2013 Membership Meetings Piney Point.............................................Monday: July 8, August 5 Algonac...................................................Friday: July 12, August 9 Baltimore.............................................Thursday: July 11, August 8 Guam.............................................Thursday: July 25, August 22 Honolulu...............................................Friday: July 19, August 16 Houston...............................................Monday: July 15, August 12 Jacksonville.......................................Thursday: July 11, August 8 Joliet................................................Thursday: July 18, August 15 Mobile..........................................Wednesday: July 17, August 14 New Orleans...........................................Tuesday: July16, August 13 New York.......................................Tuesday: July 9, August 6 Norfolk...............................................Thursday: July 11, August 8 Oakland...........................................Thursday: July 18, August 15 Philadelphia...................................Wednesday: July 10, August 7 Port Everglades................................Thursday: July 18, August 15 San Juan..............................................Thursday: July 11, August 8 St. Louis.................................................Friday: July 19, August 16 Tacoma..................................................Friday: July 26, August 23 Wilmington..............................................Monday: July 22, August 19 Each port’s meeting starts at 10:30 a.m. Attention SEAFARERS SPAD FIGHTS SIU FOR YOU ! CONTRIBUTE TO THE SEAFARERS POLITICAL ACTIVITY DONATION SPAD June 2013 15046_JUNE2K13LOG.indd 15 Dispatchers’ Report for Deep Sea April 16, 2013 - May 15, 2013 Port Total Registered All Groups A B C Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS 10 3 4 19 2 9 52 33 3 11 15 46 24 21 2 4 5 37 4 25 329 6 1 7 15 2 8 12 27 4 6 2 15 21 10 5 1 4 11 0 22 179 0 0 3 2 0 2 2 4 2 3 2 3 5 1 2 0 1 5 0 2 39 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu6 Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS 0 0 8 8 1 2 15 22 2 4 1 13 8 11 1 2 1 20 0 7 130 3 1 7 6 1 0 6 15 0 2 1 7 9 0 1 4 6 5 2 10 88 2 0 2 4 0 4 1 1 0 1 0 3 2 2 0 0 1 1 0 1 21 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS 0 0 6 10 0 9 25 20 1 3 5 13 12 33 0 4 1 18 1 25 186 2 1 1 0 0 3 2 7 2 0 2 7 4 3 0 3 0 3 1 3 44 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS 1 0 1 1 0 0 4 0 0 1 3 1 0 4 1 0 1 2 0 4 24 GRAND TOTAL: 669 Total Shipped All Groups A B C Deck Department 6 7 1 0 4 3 11 8 2 2 7 0 38 13 36 18 2 5 8 2 11 0 39 21 17 26 18 8 1 5 1 0 6 4 24 7 2 3 26 17 260 149 1 1 2 2 0 0 2 2 1 1 0 0 7 0 1 0 1 1 0 3 25 Trip Reliefs Registered on Beach All Groups A B C 1 2 1 11 0 1 24 25 0 3 8 25 14 11 3 0 6 14 1 11 161 10 3 8 29 4 31 90 60 1 20 21 73 31 36 5 3 10 69 4 64 572 6 1 9 23 3 12 20 42 1 6 4 20 31 16 3 3 8 25 1 35 269 1 2 2 6 0 1 3 7 2 4 4 5 7 1 2 0 4 8 2 7 68 Engine Department 0 2 1 0 1 0 5 2 0 4 3 2 1 0 0 5 1 1 13 8 2 20 11 2 0 3 1 6 2 2 1 1 0 13 6 0 9 9 2 6 4 1 2 1 0 0 2 0 3 1 0 9 9 2 0 0 0 9 13 1 105 83 17 1 0 1 2 0 12 11 12 2 1 1 3 3 3 1 1 3 6 0 3 55 0 0 8 14 1 9 28 37 2 6 7 29 18 16 3 3 2 30 4 18 238 5 0 8 10 1 1 15 33 2 5 2 18 21 9 3 4 11 11 3 37 207 2 0 4 3 0 1 4 0 2 0 3 3 5 4 0 0 2 1 6 41 3 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 3 0 1 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 10 Steward Department 1 1 2 0 1 0 4 0 0 5 3 1 0 0 0 7 2 0 20 4 2 16 5 0 2 1 2 2 0 0 3 0 2 17 6 0 11 6 0 13 3 1 1 1 0 1 1 0 1 1 0 14 0 0 2 0 0 19 5 0 139 40 10 1 0 3 5 0 1 6 6 1 0 1 6 8 6 1 0 1 5 0 8 59 0 0 4 21 1 24 32 34 0 6 8 23 25 30 4 4 4 33 3 43 299 1 0 3 3 1 7 6 8 2 2 3 13 12 5 0 2 1 6 1 8 84 0 0 0 4 1 0 1 1 0 1 3 0 2 2 1 0 2 1 0 2 21 9 0 0 8 1 7 8 15 0 2 3 19 13 15 0 3 0 7 1 13 124 13 0 2 1 0 7 6 8 0 2 2 7 18 10 1 1 0 3 0 10 91 Entry Department 1 3 0 0 2 0 1 0 1 1 6 1 0 0 0 3 5 3 2 5 2 2 10 4 0 0 0 1 1 0 0 1 2 1 12 5 0 12 9 1 3 5 0 3 1 0 2 0 0 0 0 4 6 3 0 0 0 2 11 7 19 82 43 1 0 0 2 0 1 5 2 0 0 0 2 3 2 0 2 0 0 0 2 22 3 0 1 1 0 2 8 2 0 1 4 3 0 5 1 0 1 11 0 9 52 13 0 2 12 1 11 15 16 0 2 4 37 23 22 1 3 0 22 1 34 219 24 0 2 6 0 15 11 21 4 3 3 30 39 11 1 2 1 8 0 40 221 435 161 297 1,161 779 351 523 354 95 Seafarers LOG 15 5/24/2013 2:50:06 PM �Inquiring Seafarer Seafarers International Union Directory Michael Sacco, President Augustin Tellez, Executive Vice President David Heindel, Secretary-Treasurer George Tricker, Vice President Contracts Tom Orzechowski, Vice President Lakes and Inland Waters Dean Corgey, Vice President Gulf Coast Nicholas J. Marrone, Vice President West Coast Joseph T. Soresi, Vice President Atlantic Coast Kermett Mangram, Vice President Government Services Editor’s note: This month’s question was answered by recent graduates of the Paul Hall Center’s steward recertification course. Question: What is one of the bigger changes you’ve noticed in the maritime industry since you first started sailing, and why have you stuck with this career? HEADQUARTERS 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746 (301) 899-0675 ALGONAC 520 St. Clair River Dr., Algonac, MI 48001 (810) 794-4988 ANCHORAGE 721 Sesame St., #1C, Anchorage, AK 99503 (907) 561-4988 BALTIMORE 2315 Essex St., Baltimore, MD 21224 (410) 327-4900 GUAM P.O. Box 3328, Hagatna, Guam 96932 Cliffline Office Ctr. Bldg., Suite 103B 422 West O’Brien Dr., Hagatna, Guam 96910 (671) 477-1350 HONOLULU 606 Kalihi St., Honolulu, HI 96819 (808) 845-5222 HOUSTON 1221 Pierce St., Houston, TX 77002 (713) 659-5152 JACKSONVILLE 5100 Belfort Rd., Jacksonville, FL 32256 (904) 281-2622 JOLIET 10 East Clinton St., Joliet, IL 60432 (815) 723-8002 MOBILE 1640 Dauphin Island Pkwy, Mobile, AL 36605 (251) 478-0916 Recertified Steward Karl Meyer Recertified Steward Shirley Bellamy I’ve noticed quite a few changes, including technology – giving us access to our information and how the jobs are displayed. There is more focus on safety and also a better environment at the new hall in Jacksonville. Another change is the beautiful new waterfront at the Paul Hall Center. I’ve stayed with the job because it’s an honest profession and I’m part of an organization that works, not to mention it’s pretty good earnings. Recertified Steward Anthony Jacobson I started 20 years ago, and there’s no question that these days we are working much safer, with fewer lost-time accidents. I definitely believe this is a direct result of our training at the Paul Hall Center and the companies’ safety programs. I have been all over the world, worked on some really great ships and made quite a few friends over the years. Recertified Steward Cleto Lindong Today there is a lot more technology involved, compared to, say, 15 years ago. It seems like you can do everything via computer. I have stuck with it because I’ve gotten all the support I’ve ever needed for the job, especially all the benefits from our union. I also feel very blessed to have gotten into the steward recertification class. Recertified Steward Sean Richard Recertified Steward John Greubel One of the biggest changes I’ve noticed since joining the union in 1992 is the job growth, and also the upgrading (opportunities) available in Piney Point. I choose to stay in the maritime industry because it gave me a chance to travel and see parts of the world I only had read about in books or had seen on TV, and to make good money, too. I recommend anyone coming into this industry to focus on your job skills and the travel. The industry has changed as far as requirements for acceptance into it, and it has changed for the better when it comes to training and safety. Politics has become more important to our union and I think people understand their participation matters. Implementing the TWIC card system has changed security. The use of online services is great these days, for the Seafarers LOG and especially the member portal. I have been sailing with the SIU since 1992. The increase in overall requirements and regulations for individual seafarers and for other parts of the industry is a big change. I also see both the union and the operating companies taking a proactive approach to address the various changes that we encounter and to promote safety. My first job was cleaning ash trays and emptying garbage cans (on the cruise ship Independence). From that time on, the sea and the SIU became an inseparable part of my life. Pic-From-The-Past NEW ORLEANS 3911 Lapalco Blvd., Harvey, LA 70058 (504) 328-7545 NEW YORK 635 Fourth Ave., Brooklyn, NY 11232 (718) 499-6600 Government Services Division: (718) 499-6600 NORFOLK 115 Third St., Norfolk, VA 23510 (757) 622-1892 OAKLAND 1121 7th St., Oakland, CA 94607 (510) 444-2360 PHILADELPHIA 2604 S. 4 St., Philadelphia, PA 19148 (215) 336-3818 PINEY POINT P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674 (301) 994-0010 PORT EVERGLADES 1221 S. Andrews Ave., Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33316 (954) 522-7984 SANTURCE 1057 Fernandez Juncos Ave., Stop 16 Santurce, PR 00907 (787) 721-4033 ST. LOUIS/ALTON 4581 Gravois Ave., St. Louis, MO 63116 (314) 752-6500 TACOMA 3411 South Union Ave., Tacoma, WA 98409 (253) 272-7774 WILMINGTON 510 N. Broad Ave., Wilmington, CA 90744 (310) 549-4000 Supporting our troops has been an SIU tradition throughout the union’s 75-year history. In this 1990 photo, the SIU-crewed USNS Algol (right) sails for Saudi Arabia after loading cargo in Savannah, Ga., as part of Operation Desert Shield/Desert Storm. If anyone has a vintage union-related photograph he or she would like to share with other Seafarers LOG readers, please send it to the Seafarers LOG, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. Photographs will be returned, if so requested. High-resolution digital images may be sent to webmaster@seafarers.org 16 Seafarers LOG 15046_JUNE2K13LOG.indd 16 June 2013 5/24/2013 2:03:31 PM �Welcome Ashore Each month, the Seafarers LOG pays tribute to the SIU members who have devoted their working lives to sailing aboard U.S.-flag vessels on the deep seas, inland waterways or Great Lakes. Listed below are brief biographical sketches of those members who recently retired from the union. The brothers and sisters of the SIU thank those members for a job well done and wish them happiness and good health in the days ahead. DEEP SEA WILLIAM BLEES Brother William Blees, 67, joined the union in 1991. He initially shipped on the USNS Kane. Brother Blees sailed in the steward department and upgraded on two occasions at the Piney Point school. His most recent ship was the Horizon Producer. Brother Blees calls Aguada, P.R., home. JOSE FELICIANO Brother Jose Feliciano, 66, signed on with the Seafarers in 1983. His first trip was aboard the USNS H.H. Hess; his most recent was on the Maersk Arkansas. In 1990, Brother Feliciano attended classes at the Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md. The former deck department member lives in Penuelas, P.R. GLORIA HOLMES Sister Gloria Holmes, 65, was born in Louisiana. She became an SIU member in 1978 while in San Francisco. Sister Holmes sailed in the steward department and frequently upgraded at the maritime training center in Piney Point, Md. Her earliest trip was aboard the Santa Magdelena. Sister Holmes most recently shipped on the Charger. She settled in Mather, Calif. TRAVIS JEFFERSON Brother Travis Jefferson, 66, began his seafaring career in 1978. He originally shipped on the President Jefferson. Brother Jefferson sailed in the steward department. In 1995, he upgraded his skills at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Jefferson’s most recent ship was the Horizon Anchorage. He makes his home in Seattle. ALVIN MAJOR Brother Alvin Major, 69, joined the SIU ranks in 1998. His earliest trip was aboard the USNS Bellatrix. Brother Major was born in Georgetown, Guyana. He sailed in the steward department. Brother Major enhanced his skills on two occasions at the Piney Point school. He last sailed on the Cape Douglas. Brother Major resides in England. JOSE MANANDIC Brother Jose Manandic, 65, June 2013 15046_JUNE2K13LOG.indd 17 donned the SIU colors in 1989. His first voyage was aboard the Independence; his most recent was on the APL Coral. Brother Manandic was a member of the steward department. He upgraded often at the unionaffiliated school in Piney Point, Md. Brother Manandic was born in Honolulu and calls Las Vegas home. ALLEN MYREX Brother Allen Myrex, 87, joined the union in 1946. He initially sailed with Liberty Navigation Trading Company. Brother Myrex was a member of the deck department. He last worked on the Venture. Brother Myrex makes his home in Silver Hill, Ala. JOSE ORSORTO Brother Jose Orsorto, 65, started his SIU career in 2006 while in Fort Lauderdale, Fla. He is a native of Honduras. Brother Orsorto initially shipped on the Pride of America. The engine department member’s most recent trip was aboard the St. Mary’s Challenger. Brother Orsorto settled in Fort Lauderdale, Fla. DANIEL PAYNE Brother Daniel Payne, 65, signed on with the SIU in 1990 while in the port of Wilmington, Calif. As a member of steward department, Brother Payne upgraded on numerous occasions at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. He first sailed on the USNS H.H. Hess. Brother Payne’s most recent trip was aboard the Liberty Promise. He is a resident of Simonton, Texas. ROBERT PIMENTEL Brother Robert Pimentel, 65, became a union member in 1966. His earliest trip to sea was aboard a Victory Carriers Inc. vessel. Brother Pimentel sailed in the steward department. His most recent ship was the Manulani. Brother Pimentel settled in San Francisco. ROBERT STENEHJEM Brother Robert Stenehjem, 65, joined the Seafarers in 1979 while in Honolulu. He originally worked on the Aleutian Developer. Brother Stenehjem upgraded in 1996 at the Paul Hall Center. His most recent trip was aboard the Tacoma. The deck department member lives in Seattle. ERNESTO VILLANUEVA WOODROW PEAVY Brother Ernesto Villanueva, 68, donned the SIU colors in 1979. His first ship was the Kopaa; his most recent was the APL Singapore. In 2002, Brother Villanueva attended classes at the union-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. He was a member of the steward department. Brother Villanueva was born in Philippines and calls San Francisco home. Brother Woodrow Peavy, 66, was born in Alabama. He signed on with the union in 1974. Brother Peavy primarily sailed on vessels operated by Dravo Basic Materials Company. He makes his home in Little River, Ala. VAN WATLER Brother Van Watler, 70, began his seafaring career in 1993. He enhanced his skills in 2001 at the Piney Point school. Brother Watler worked in the engine department. His most recent trip was on the Pelican State. Brother Watler resides in Garden, Fla. INLAND TERRY LEJEUNE Brother Terry Lejeune, 50, signed on with the SIU in 1988 while in New Orleans. The deck department member primarily sailed with Moran Towing of Texas. Brother Lejeune upgraded in 1998 and 2001 at the Piney Point school. He calls Jennings, La., home. GREAT LAKES attended classes at the Piney Point school. Brother Lewis’ most recent trip was aboard the Green Point. He calls South Daytona, Fla., home. THOMAS ROONEY ALAN MAURY Brother Alan Maury, 68, became a union member in 1974, originally sailing aboard the Harry Allen. He was a deck department member. Brother Maury upgraded on two occasions at the Paul Hall Center. His most recent trip was on the John Boland. Brother Maury is a resident of Port Richey, Fla. NATIONAL MARITIME UNION Brother Thomas Rooney, 55, became an NMU member before the 2001 SIU/ NMU merger. He is a resident of Hull, Mass. JOHN SCHIRALDI Brother John Schiraldi, 65, joined the NMU in 1980. He makes his home in Kissimmee, Fla. WILLIAM WYLIE JESSE CHILES Brother Jesse Chiles, 65, was a steward department member. He last shipped on the Sgt. William R. Button. Brother Chiles lives in Bronx, N.Y. Brother William Wylie, 65, was an NMU member before the 2001 merger. He resides in Fairhaven, Mass. THOMAS LEWIS Brother Thomas Lewis, 65, was born in Connecticut. In 2001, he This Month In SIU History Editor’s note: The following items are reprinted from previous editions of the Seafarers LOG. 1941 The SS Robin Moor, an SIU ship, was the first U.S.-flag vessel to be sunk by the Germans. The crew was given 20 minutes by the German submarine commander to leave the vessel. After the crew launched the lifeboats, and were approximately one mile from the ship, the German submarine then torpedoed the ship, sinking it. This action led to a demand, eventually carried out, that all American-flag ships be armed and supplied with gun crews. It also led to the union’s demand for higher bonuses and insurance. 1950 An agreement setting forth the terms under which the Seafarers Welfare Plan will operate was signed by a committee representing the bulk of the steamship companies under contract to the Atlantic & Gulf District. The signing cleared the way for the plan to begin functioning as the Bureau of Internal Revenue and National Labor Relations Board give their okays to the plan. The signing of the agreement brought a virtual end to negotiations which the Union Welfare Committee has had underway since December of last year, when the SIU-contracted companies signified their agreement to pay 25 cents per day for every SIU member employed aboard their ships. 1955 The new SIU family benefits for wives and children of Seafarers have gone into effect as of June 1. Already at least two Seafarer wives, one in Miami and another in Philadelphia, are known to have entered hospitals for surgery under the plan, and a number of inquiries have come into headquarters concerning other pending hospital cases. Meanwhile, all the necessary apparatus to handle claims and dispense information about the new benefits has been set up in headquarters and in the outports. It is anticipated the first claims coming in will be handled smoothly and with a minimum of delay. 1967 Addressing the almost 300 delegates and guests at the opening session of the 13th Biennial Convention of the Seafarers International Union of North America, House Minority Leader Rep. Gerald Ford (R-Mich.) spoke of strengthening the merchant marine, adding that in the United States today “we lack both the ships and the manpower to respond adequately to international crisis.” Ford has been a vigorous critic of the Johnson Administration’s failure to protect maritime policy and is a leading advocate of an independent Federal Maritime Administration as a means of strengthening the American merchant marine and U.S. shipping. Seafarers LOG 17 5/24/2013 2:03:34 PM �Final Departures DEEP SEA RONALD AMMAR Brother Ronald Ammar, 77, passed away Aug. 22. He joined the Seafarers in 1999 while in the port of New York. Brother Ammar initially sailed on the USNS Gordon. The engine department member was last employed aboard the Horizon Challenger. Brother Ammar called Patchohue, N.Y., home. SZE CHEN Pensioner Sze Chen, 100, died Sept. 22. Brother Chen became an SIU member in 1951. His first voyage was on the Steel Record. Brother Chen shipped in the steward department. Prior to his retirement in 1977, he sailed aboard the Tampa. Brother Chen made his home in New York. CHARLES CURLEY Brother Charles Curley, 58, passed away Jan. 16. Born in Roanoke Rapids, N.C., he began sailing with the union in 1980. Brother Curley first sailed on the Del Oro. He was a steward department member. Brother Curley most recently shipped aboard the APL Agate. He was a resident of Gaston, N.C. EMANUEL DOUROUDOUS Pensioner Emanuel Douroudous, 74, died Nov. 27. Brother Douroudous started shipping with the SIU in 1970. His first vessel was Hudson Waterways’ Sea Del; his last, the Voyager. Brother Douroudous was born in Greece and shipped in the steward department. He became a pensioner in 1999 and settled in Thailand. KENNETH DUFRENE Pensioner Kenneth Dufrene, 68, passed away Dec. 12. Brother Dufrene first donned the SIU colors in 1979. The deck department member was born in Los Angeles. Brother Dufrene’s first trip was aboard the Overseas Chicago. His final ship was the USNS Bob Hope. Brother Dufrene became a pensioner in 2009. He lived in Springdale, Ark. JEFFREY FIELDS Brother Jeffrey Fields, 41, died Dec. 24. He signed on with the SIU in 1992. His earliest trip was on the Trader. Brother Fields was born in New Orleans. He last worked aboard the Sunshine State. Brother Fields was an engine department member. He continued to reside in Louisiana. EDWARD HANVEY Brother Edward Hanvey, 63, passed away Oct. 15. He started sailing with the union in 1991. Brother Hanvey initially sailed on the Overseas Valdez. He was a member of the engine department. Brother Hanvey most recently worked aboard the Maersk Michigan. He made his home in Newport News, Va. 18 Seafarers LOG 15046_JUNE2K13LOG_X.indd 18 WILLIAM HOLMES JAMES PEACOCK Pensioner William Holmes, 73, died Dec. 12. Brother Holmes was a New Jersey native. He joined the SIU in 1976 while in the port of Philadelphia. Brother Holmes first sailed with Ecological Steamship Company. The deck department member’s final trip was aboard AMSEA’s Lake. Brother Holmes started collecting his pension in 1995. He called Willingboro, N.J., home. Pensioner James Peacock, 72, died Oct. 18. Brother Peacock first donned the SIU colors in 1967 in New Orleans. He was a member of both the deck and steward departments. Brother Peacock’s first trip was with Pecos Transport Inc. His final ship was the Nuevo San Juan. Brother Peacock became a pensioner in 1999. He was a resident of Jacksonville, Fla. WILLIAM JOSLIN Brother William Joslin, 71, passed away Sept. 24. He began sailing with the Seafarers in 1969. Brother Joslin initially worked on the Cosmos Mariner. He was born in Seattle. The engine department member last shipped on the North Star. Brother Joslin settled in Aberdeen, Wash. GEORGE KHULAGI Pensioner George Khulagi, 77, died Aug. 16. Brother Khulagi joined the union in 1969. He first sailed aboard the Ames Victory. Brother Khulagi was a member of both the deck and engine departments. Prior to his retirement in 2000, he shipped on the Venture. Brother Khulagi called New York home. ANTONIO KOTSIS Pensioner Antonio Kotsis, 92, passed away Nov. 1. Brother Kotsis became an SIU member in 1956. He sailed aboard the Steel Age early in his career. Brother Kotsis was born in Greece and worked in the deck department. His final trip was with Michigan Tankers. Brother Kotsis went on pension in 1981. He continued to reside in Greece. LARRY NICHOLSON Brother Larry Nicholson, 43, died Aug. 6. He started shipping with the union in 1988. Brother Nicholson originally sailed on the USNS Bartlett. He was a member of the steward department. Brother Nicholson last worked on the USNS Bob Hope. He made his home in Mobile, Ala. EDWARD O’CONNELL Pensioner Edward O’Connell, 89, passed away Nov. 23. Brother O’Connell signed on with the SIU in 1943 while in the port of New York. One of his earliest trips was on the Cornhusker State. Brother O’Connell was born in Rockport, Mass., and sailed in the deck department. Before his retirement in 1985, he worked aboard the HMI Dynachem. Brother O’Connell lived in Salem, Mass. ROSCOE RAINWATER Pensioner Roscoe Rainwater, 85, passed away Dec. 12. Brother Rainwater was an Alabama native. He joined the union in 1946 and sailed with Waterman Steamship Corporation. Brother Rainwater worked in the steward department. He last sailed on the Leader. Brother Rainwater started collecting his pension in 1989. He called Leeds, Ala., home. JOHN RODE Pensioner John Rode, 75, died Oct. 11. Brother Rode began shipping with the union in 1957. He initially worked aboard the Fairport. Brother Rode sailed in the engine department. His final trip was on the Panama. Brother Rode retired in 2002 and made his home in Baltimore. WINDELL SAUNDERS Pensioner Windell Saunders, 85, passed away Aug. 21. Brother Saunders became an SIU member in 1962. He originally sailed aboard the Hastings. Brother Saunders worked in the steward department. His last voyage was on the Long Lines. Brother Saunders went on pension in 1992. He lived in Baltimore. CARL THOMPSON Pensioner Carl Thompson, 69, died Nov. 4. Brother Thompson signed on with the Seafarers in 1960. His earliest trip was aboard the Ogden Challenger. Brother Thompson was a steward department member. He started collecting his pension in 2008. Brother Thompson lived in Semmes, Ala. MARK TREPP Pensioner Mark Trepp, 61, passed away Jan. 28. Born in Cleveland, Brother Trepp joined the union in 1977. He first sailed aboard the Saginaw Bay. Brother Trepp was a deck department member. Prior to his retirement in 2009, he shipped on the Cape Ducato. Brother Trepp called Hernando, Fla., home. JOHN WALLACK Pensioner John Wallack, 85, died Oct. 3. Brother Wallack became an SIU member in 1953. He first sailed with Delta Steamship Lines. Brother Wallack last shipped aboard the OMI Wabash. The deck department member went on pension in 1991 and resided in Maine. ANDREW WITKOWICKI Brother Andrew Witkowicki, 59, passed away Sept. 3. He donned the SIU colors in 1973 while in New York. Brother Witkowicki initially sailed with Maritime Operations Inc. He was born in Poland and shipped in the engine department. Brother Witkowicki’s final trip was on the Advantage. He made his home in Barnegat, N.J. INLAND ANTHONY DECICCO Brother Anthony DeCicco, 46, died Dec. 25. Brother Decicco began shipping with the union in 1991. A member of the deck department, he initially sailed in the deep sea division aboard the LNG Aquarius. Brother DeCicco’s final trip was aboard the Integrity. He resided in Cape Cod, Mass. WILLIAM DIZE Pensioner William Dize, 64, passed away Sept. 8. Brother Dize was a Virginia native. He joined the SIU in 1986 and sailed with the Association of Maryland Pilots for the duration of his career. Brother Dize started collecting his pension in 2008. He called Ewell, Md., home. ROBERT ELIA Pensioner Robert Elia, 84, died Sept. 20. Brother Elia began sailing with the union in 1973. He originally worked with McAllister Towing of Philadelphia. Brother Elia was a member of the steward department. Before retiring in 1991, he sailed on a Moran Towing of Philadelphia boat. Brother Elia was a resident of Vineland, N.J. CHARLES GWALTNEY Pensioner Charles Gwaltney, 82, passed away Oct. 28. Brother Gwaltney became an SIU member in 1962. He initially worked with Chesapeake & Ohio Railway. Brother Gwaltney was born in Virginia. His final trip was on a Moran Towing of Virginia vessel. He went on pension in 1995 and made his home in Hampton, Va. SEAN HICKEY Brother Sean Hickey, 56, died Sept. 25. He signed on with the union in 2010. His earliest trip was aboard the Liberty Island. Brother Hickey sailed primarily in the steward department. He most recently worked on the Achievement. Brother Hickey resided in Fort Lauderdale, Fla. CHARLES HORSEMAN Pensioner Charles Horseman, 84, passed away Jan. 4. Brother Horseman joined the SIU in 1961, and his first boats included ones operated by Marine Towing and Transportation. Brother Horseman was a Vienna, Md., native. His last trip was with McAllister Towing of Philadelphia. Brother Horseman worked in the engine department. He retired in 1988 and lived in Franklin Township, N.J. DONALD SMITH Brother Donald Smith, 39, died Nov. 19. He started shipping with the union in 2005. Brother Smith primarily worked with Crescent Towing & Salvage Company. He sailed in both the engine and deck departments. Brother Smith made his home in Bessemer, Ala. ALLEN STILES Pensioner Allen Stiles, 70, passed away Sept. 18. Born in New Jersey, Brother Stiles joined the union in 1972 and initially sailed aboard a Gellenthin Barge Lines vessel. Prior to his retirement in 2009, he shipped with Interstate Oil Transportation. Brother Stiles called Kenneth City, Fla., home. DAVID TAUSIG Brother David Tausig, 30, died Oct. 23. He donned the SIU colors in 2008 and sailed with Penn Maritime Inc. for the duration of his career. Brother Tausig sailed in the deck department and was a resident of Centerport, N.Y. THOMAS VALLERCHAMP Brother Thomas Vallerchamp, 55, passed away Nov. 25. He became an SIU member in 1983 while in Jacksonville, Fla. Brother Vallerchamp’s first vessel was the Sugar Island; his last was the Dodge Island. The engine department member resided in his native state, Florida. GREAT LAKES WALLACE MASTERS Pensioner Wallace Masters, 80, died Sept. 13. Brother Masters was born in Wisconsin. He started his SIU career in 1972. Brother Masters mainly sailed with American Steamship Company. He became a pensioner in 1996. Brother Masters, who sailed in the deck department, settled in Shingleton, Mich. JEFF MYROUP Brother Jeff Myroup, 45, passed away Sept. 28. He signed on with the union in 1995 while in Detroit. Brother Myroup worked with Great Lakes Towing Company. He made his home in Illinois. LOUIS SHULTZ Pensioner Louis Shultz, 82, died Dec. 3. Brother Shultz began his seafaring career in 1960. He primarily sailed with American Steamship Company. Brother Shultz was a deck department member. He retired in 1995 and called Oregon, Ohio, home. June 2013 5/28/2013 10:55:37 AM �Digest of Shipboard Union Meetings ENERGY ENTERPRISE (Waterman Steamship), March 3 – Chairman Timothy D. Koebel, Secretary Eddie L. Siplin, Deck Delegate Elmo Davis, Engine Delegate Louis Valencia, Steward Delegate Wilfredo A. Perez. Chairman discussed a few issues pertaining to the current contract and stated further research needs to be done. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew members were reminded no hats, tank tops or flip flops in mess hall. Request was made for Direct TV to be in individual rooms. Next ports: Norfolk, Va. and Fall River, Mass. FLORIDA (Crowley), March 28 – Chairman John Lamprecht, Secretary Hazel Johnson, Educational Director Troy D. Banks, Deck Delegate Marvin Chester, Engine Delegate Ann Mensch, Steward Delegate William Young. Bosun reported another safe trip. He thanked everyone for doing their jobs professionally and in a timely manner. Crew was reminded to keep garbage areas clean. Secretary reminded them to contribute to SPAD, because when you do, you help yourself as well as your union shipmates. He also asked crew departing vessel to leave rooms how they would want to find them. Educational director reminded fellow members about importance of upgrading at Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md. Mariners were advised to read the Seafarers LOG to stay up-to-date on benefit changes and shipping rules. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Steward delegate thanked deck and engine gangs for helping keep house clean. Crew asked about vacation benefits. Vessel still needs to have internet and email connected. Crew thanked steward department (Hazel Johnson, William Young, Marvin Davis) for a five-star job. Next port: Corpus Christi, Texas. MAERSK CAROLINA (Maersk Line, Limited), March 17 – Chairman Brian K. Fountain, Secretary Robert T. Seim, Educational Director Kevin M. Cooper. Crew awaiting response concerning eminent danger pay. Chairman reported another safe trip with no lost-time injuries, bringing the cumulative total to 3,118 days. He gave special thanks to everyone for “doing their jobs professionally and in a timely manner, and special thanks for Steward Assistant Jose Garcia keeping all the spaces clean and orderly.” Secretary encouraged fellow mariners to read the LOG to stay updated, and also contribute to SPAD “because when you do, you help yourself as well as your union brothers.” Educational director reminded crew members to get their time in and take advantage of upgrading at Piney Point. No beefs or June 2013 15046_JUNE2K13LOG.indd 19 The Seafarers LOG attempts to print as many digests of union shipboard minutes as possible. On occasion, because of space limitations, some will be omitted. Ships’ minutes first are reviewed by the union’s contract department. Those issues requiring attention or resolution are addressed by the union upon receipt of the ships’ minutes. The minutes are then forwarded to the Seafarers LOG for publication. Saluting a Fellow Seafarer Seafarers and officers aboard the Maersk-operated USNS Henson recently lauded QMED Charles Kirksey as the longtime SIU member prepares to call it a career. “He has been sailing 40 years and is a great shipmate and role model,” noted MDR Brandon Maeda. In the photo below at left, Kirksey displays a knot board built by Bosun Joseph Gierbolini as a retirement gift. Kirksey also is pictured with vessel master Capt. Ryan White (presenting a ship’s cap) in the photo below at right, and is standing at far left in the group photo at right. Also pictured (from left, standing) are QMED Romeo Ferrer, STOS Christopher Johnson, STOS Victor Brabble, AB James Copeland, Storekeeper Deanna Moore, Chief Steward Pete Williams, GVA Sabrina Long, MDR Maeda and Chief Cook Wagner Pellerin. Kneeling (from left): Bosun Gierbolini, AB Algernon Reed, GVA Mahlik Rogers, and GVA Joseph Martin. The bosun said this crew is one of the best he’s ever worked with, and described them as a very professional bunch of Seafarers who respected and looked out for one another. “In many ways, we are like a large family.” disputed OT reported. Crew made numerous suggestions for next contract. MAERSK GEORGIA (Maersk Line, Limited), March 24 – Chairman Domingo Leon Jr., Secretary Lashawn L. Rivera, Educational Director Eric D. Bain. Chairman thanked crew for safe voyage. Secretary reminded departing mariners to make sure rooms are clean and clean linens are ready. Educational director encouraged fellow Seafarers to upgrade at Paul Hall Center in Piney Point. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Steward department received vote of thanks for job well done. Crew requested increased pension benefits. PHILADELPHIA EXPRESS (Crowley), March 3 – Chairman Jose A. Jimenea, Secretary Gerald J. Joseph, Educational Director David C. Carter, Deck Delegate Dennis Saggese, Engine Delegate Phillip Niles, Steward Delegate Michael Harris. Chairman discussed STCW Basic Safety Training and upcoming payoff in Houston. Educational director suggested that all members, whether experienced or new to the industry, go to school to upgrade in Piney Point. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew reported need for new mattresses, pillows and pillow cases. Captain was very pleased with all crew for keeping a clean and healthy ship. Chairman also thanked steward department for job well done. PRIDE OF AMERICA (NCL America), March 14 – Chairman Rene C. Govico, Secretary Rolando J. Dinong, Educational Director James M. Crosby, Deck Delegate Gary Hunt, Engine Delegate Aristotle Cortez. Chairman discussed vacation benefits. He advised crew members to be prudent when ashore. Also discussed importance of shipboard safety and keeping documents up-todate. Secretary emphasized importance of contributing to SPAD, the union’s voluntary political action fund. “This is our vehicle for promoting and protecting our job security.” Educational director suggested crew take advantage of courses available at maritime training center in Piney Point. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew revisited vacation benefits and asked that they be increased. They submitted photos to the LOG (see page 9). RACER (Maersk Line, Limited), March 28 – Chairman Thomas P. Flanagan, Secretary Glenn Williams, Educational Director Brian H. Miller, Engine Delegate Jeffery Bull, Steward Delegate Manes Sainvil. Chairman talked about upcoming payoff and crew change. He reported a safe trip and thanked everyone for their extra efforts. Secretary thanked deck gang for their help. No beefs or disputed OT reported; deck delegate requested a few clarifications. Vote of thanks given to steward department. Next port: Charleston, S.C., Savannah, Ga., Houston, and Mobile, Ala. MERCURY (Maersk Line, Limited), April 2 – Chairman Brian P. Corbett, Secretary Richard E. Hicks, Educational Director Christopher M. Eason, Deck Delegate Donivan T. McCants, Engine Delegate Ernest D. Bullock, Steward Delegate Cornelius J. Taylor. Chairman discussed issues involving company’s fleet upgrade, which involves reflagging eight vessels and replacing them with eight newer ones. Also talked about the different runs some vessels will be on. He thanked everyone for doing their parts and more. It was a safe, accident-free trip with much cooperation between all departments. Educational director reminded everyone to renew documents early and take advantage of Paul Hall Center. Upgrading means pay raises. “We have a fine school. Take advantage of it.” No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew discussed importance of members being aware that U.S. Merchant Marine needs to prove itself in value and skill at all times. Crew discussed length of assignments and how that length is documented. They also urged the union and companies to confer on new and upcoming STCW-related regulations and how they affect pay. Steward department was thanked for fine job. OVERSEAS BOSTON (OSG), April 7 – Chairman Christopher J. Kicey, Secretary Carl T. Poggioli, Educational Director Patrick L. Coppola, Deck Delegate Walter Wilde. Chairman discussed STCW-mandated rest hours. He said vessel will take on stores in Long Beach, Calif., before heading to Hawaii. Secretary reported new dryer will be picked up. He said crew “is doing a great job keeping the house and ship clean and running well.” Educational director reminded fellow members to keep an eye on document expiration dates, and allow plenty of time for renewals. Also head to Piney Point to upgrade. He reminded everyone to stow weights properly when done working out in gym. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew discussed potential need for Chinese visas. Crew thanked steward department, with special thanks to SA Hernando Basilan for a great job. Seafarers LOG 19 5/24/2013 2:03:39 PM �CIVMARS Support Our Troops A mariner aboard the Seafarers-crewed USNS Richard E. Byrd attaches cargo to a helicopter while the T-AKE vessel conducts an underway replenishment with the aircraft carrier USS Nimitz April 28 in the Pacific Ocean. The Byrd is crewed in the unlicensed positions by members of the SIU Government Services Division. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Raul Moreno Jr.) Coast Guard Issues Reminder, Instructions For Obtaining STCW Security Endorsements As previously reported, the most recent amendments to the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW) led the U.S. Coast Guard to issue a policy letter outlining new security training and endorsement requirements for all vessel personnel. According to that policy letter (No. 12-06), as of Jan. 1, 2014 all mariners must have an STCW security endorsement as part of their merchant mariner credential (MMC) in line with their respective assigned duties. Detailed information is available in a March 28 post in the News section of the SIU website at: www.seafarers.org/news/2013/Q1/STCWSecurityEndorsementInfo.htm ATTENTION: SEAFARERS Contribute to SPAD (Seafarers Political Action Donation) The same information should be available at all SIU halls. Included with the March 28 post are links to the policy letter; a related, two-page FAQ (which also covers information from a separate policy letter); a sample letter (which also is included at the end of this article); and a link to Coast Guard forms 719B and 719K. Questions may be directed to the National Maritime Center (NMC) at 1-888-IASKNMC (1-888-4275662), from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday. SIU members who currently have a Vessel Security Officer (VSO) endorsement already comply with the new requirement. Other members will need to secure a letter from their employer (company) or vessel master confirming sea time or performance of security functions equivalent to designated security duties for six months in the previous three years that satisfy the requirements for the new endorsements and then send it to the NMC, or they’ll need to show proof of having completed an approved course that meets the requirements. If demonstrating completion of an approved course, the certificate of completion should be attached to Coast Guard form 719B as an application for an endorsement. If the mariner is also seeking a renewal of an existing document, form 719K (Medical Evaluation Report) would also have to be filed. Alternatively, mariners who commenced sea service prior to Jan. 1, 2012 may apply for the VPDSD endorsement by providing documentation attesting to seagoing service with designated security duties for a period of six months in the preceding three years. These duties may include, but are not limited to, duties specified in the vessel security plan or as assigned on a station bill. Documentation of this service can be a letter or certificate signed by a company official, including a vessel master. This letter is to be presented to the NMC as an attachment to a form 719B. Another method of satisfying the requirement is to secure a letter signed by a company official attesting to performance of security functions considered to be equivalent in scope to shipboard designated duties for a period of six months in the previous three years. The three STCW security endorsements are: n SA – VI/6 – Security Awareness n VPDSD – VI/6 – Vessel Personnel with Designated Security Duties n VSO – VI/5 – Vessel Security Officer Unless VSO has already been placed on the STCW page of a mariner’s MMC, he or she will need to obtain one of the endorsements listed above. Both the SIU and its affiliated school in Piney Point, Md., believe that most mariners will require the VPDSD endorsement. According to the policy letter, mariners will not be charged for adding an STCW endorsement if they apply before Jan. 1, 2014 unless they’re seeking a renewal or a raise in grade of their MMCs, nor will the expiration dates change. Sample Letter for those with Sea Time Prior to January 1, 2012: Commanding Officer U.S. Coast Guard National Maritime Center 100 Forbes Drive Martinsburg, WV 25404 Dear Sir: This letter is to provide documentation that NAME has seagoing service with designated security duties for a period of at least six months during the preceding three years and meets the STCW qualifications for Vessel Personnel with Designated Security Duties. Sincerely, NAME OF MASTER OR COMPANY OFFICIAL Know Your Rights FINANCIAL REPORTS. The Constitution of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters makes specific provision for safeguarding the membership’s money and union finances. The constitution requires a detailed audit by certified public accountants every year, which is to be submitted to the membership by the secretary-treasurer. A yearly finance committee of rank-and-file members, elected by the membership, each year examines the finances of the union and reports fully their findings and recommendations. Members of this committee may make dissenting reports, specific recommendations and separate findings. TRUST FUNDS. All trust funds of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters are administered in accordance with the provisions of various trust fund agreements. All these agreements specify that the trustees in charge of these funds shall equally consist of union and management representatives and their alternates. All expenditures and disbursements of trust funds are made only upon approval by a majority of the trustees. All trust fund financial records are available at the headquarters of the various trust funds. SHIPPING RIGHTS. A member’s shipping rights and seniority are protected exclusively by contracts between the union and the employers. Members should get to know their shipping rights. Copies of these contracts are posted and available in all union halls. If members believe there have been violations of their shipping or seniority rights as contained in the contracts between the union and the employers, they should notify the Seafarers Appeals Board by certified mail, return receipt 20 Seafarers LOG 15046_JUNE2K13LOG.indd 20 requested. The proper address for this is: Augustin Tellez, Chairman Seafarers Appeals Board 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 Full copies of contracts as referred to are available to members at all times, either by writing directly to the union or to the Seafarers Appeals Board. CONTRACTS. Copies of all SIU contracts are available in all SIU halls. These contracts specify the wages and conditions under which an SIU member works and lives aboard a ship or boat. Members should know their contract rights, as well as their obligations, such as filing for overtime (OT) on the proper sheets and in the proper manner. If, at any time, a member believes that an SIU patrolman or other union official fails to protect their contractual rights properly, he or she should contact the nearest SIU port agent. EDITORIAL POLICY — THE SEAFARERS LOG. The Seafarers LOG traditionally has refrained from publishing any article serving the political purposes of any individual in the union, officer or member. It also has refrained from publishing articles deemed harmful to the union or its collective membership. This established policy has been reaffirmed by membership action at the September 1960 meetings in all constitutional ports. The responsibility for Seafarers LOG policy is vested in an editorial board which consists of the executive board of the union. The executive board may delegate, from among its ranks, one individual to carry out this responsibility. PAYMENT OF MONIES. No monies are to be paid to anyone in any official capacity in the SIU unless an official union receipt is given for same. Under no circumstances should any member pay any money for any reason unless he is given such receipt. In the event anyone attempts to require any such payment be made without supplying a receipt, or if a member is required to make a payment and is given an official receipt, but feels that he or she should not have been required to make such payment, this should immediately be reported to union headquarters. CONSTITUTIONAL RIGHTS AND OBLIGATIONS. Copies of the SIU Constitution are available in all union halls. All members should obtain copies of this constitution so as to familiarize themselves with its contents. Any time a member feels any other member or officer is attempting to deprive him or her of any constitutional right or obligation by any methods, such as dealing with charges, trials, etc., as well as all other details, the member so affected should immediately notify headquarters. EQUAL RIGHTS. All members are guaranteed equal rights in employment and as members of the SIU. These rights are clearly set forth in the SIU Constitution and in the contracts which the union has negotiated with the employers. Consequently, no member may be discriminated against because of race, creed, color, sex, national or geographic origin. If any member feels that he or she is denied the equal rights to which he or she is entitled, the member should notify union headquarters. SEAFARERS POLITICAL ACTIVITY DONATION (SPAD). SPAD is a separate segregated fund. Its proceeds are used to further its objects and purposes including, but not limited to, furthering the political, social and economic interests of maritime workers, the preservation and furthering of the American merchant marine with improved employment opportunities for seamen and boatmen and the advancement of trade union concepts. In connection with such objects, SPAD supports and contributes to political candidates for elective office. All contributions are voluntary. No contribution may be solicited or received because of force, job discrimination, financial reprisal, or threat of such conduct, or as a condition of membership in the union or of employment. If a contribution is made by reason of the above improper conduct, the member should notify the Seafarers International Union or SPAD by certified mail within 30 days of the contribution for investigation and appropriate action and refund, if involuntary. A member should support SPAD to protect and further his or her economic, political and social interests, and American trade union concepts. NOTIFYING THE UNION — If at any time a member feels that any of the above rights have been violated, or that he or she has been denied the constitutional right of access to union records or information, the member should immediately notify SIU President Michael Sacco at headquarters by certified mail, return receipt requested. The address is: Michael Sacco, President Seafarers International Union 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746. June 2013 5/24/2013 2:03:40 PM �Paul Hall Center Upgrading Course Information The following is a schedule of courses at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md., for the next few months. All programs are geared toward improving the job skills of Seafarers and promoting the American maritime industry. Please note that this schedule may change to reflect the needs of the membership, the maritime industry and—in times of conflict—national security. Students attending any of these classes should check in the Saturday before their course’s start date. The courses listed here will begin promptly on the morning of the start dates. For classes ending on a Friday, departure reservations should be made for Saturday. Seafarers who have any questions regarding the upgrading courses offered at the Paul Hall Center may call the admissions office at (301) 994-0010. Title of Course Start Date Date of Completion Title of Course Start Date Date of Completion Marine Electrician July 27 September 20 Marine Refer Tech September 28 November 8 Advanced Refer Containers June 29 July 26 Pumpman November 30 December 13 Welding June 29 July 27 September 14 October 26 November 30 July 19 August 16 October 4 November 15 December 20 Deck Department Lifeboatman/Water Survival June 22 July 20 August 17 September 14 October 12 July 5 August 2 August 30 September 27 October 25 July 20 September 14 November 9 August 16 October 11 December 6 Able Seaman July 6 August 24 August 2 September 20 Radar Renewal (One day) August 26 December 16 August 26 December 16 Radar Observer September 7 September 20 ARPA September 21 September 27 Bosun Recertification July 13 August 5 Fast Rescue Boat June 15 August 3 June 21 August 9 STOS (RFPNW) Engine Department Designated Duty Engineer Prep June 15 July 6 July 27 June 28 July 19 August 9 Basic Auxiliary Plant Operations (BAPO) July 20 September 14 November 9 August 16 October 11 December 6 FOWT June 15 August 17 October 12 July 12 September 13 November 8 August 24 October 26 October 18 December 20 Junior Engineer UPGRADING APPLICATION Name ________________________________________________________________________ Address ______________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________ Telephone (Home)_________________________ (Cell)_________________________ Date of Birth __________________________________________________________________ Deep Sea Member o Lakes Member o Inland Waters Member o If the following information is not filled out completely, your application will not be processed. Social Security #_______________________ Book # _________________________________ Seniority_____________________________ Department_____________________________ Home Port____________________________________________________________________ E-mail_______________________________________________________________________ Endorsement(s) or License(s) now held_____________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________ Are you a graduate of the SHLSS/PHC trainee program? o Yes o No If yes, class # __________________________________________________________________ Have you attended any SHLSS/PHC upgrading courses? o Yes o No If yes, course(s) taken____________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________ With this application, COPIES of the following must be sent: One hundred and twenty-five (125) days seatime for the previous year, one day in the last six months prior to the date your class starts, USMMD (z-card) front and back or relevant pages of merchant mariner credential, front page of your union book indicating your department and seniority, qualifying seatime for the course if it is Coast Guard tested, 1995 STCW Certificate, valid SHBP Clinic Card and TWIC. June 2013 15046_JUNE2K13LOG.indd 21 Safety Upgrading Courses Advanced Firefighting July 13 August 17 September 14 July 19 August 23 September 20 Basic Firefighting/STCW June 15 August 10 September 7 June 21 August 16 September 13 Government Vessels July 20 July 26 Medical Care Provider July 20 August 24 July 26 August 30 Tank PIC Barge (DL) October 14 October 18 Tanker Assistant (DL) July 27 August 9 Steward Department Upgrading Courses Chief Steward July 6 October 5 August 16 November 15 Serve Safe June 8 August 31 November 23 June 14 September 6 November 29 Galley Operations These modules start every Monday. Chief Cook These modules start every other week. The next class will begin June 10. Advanced Galley Operations These modules start every Monday. COURSE ____________________________ START DATE _______________ DATE OF COMPLETION _______________________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________________ LAST VESSEL: ___________________________________ Rating: ____________________ Date On: _______________________________ Date Off:____________________________ SIGNATURE ____________________________________ DATE______________________ NOTE: Transportation will be paid in accordance with the scheduling letter only if you present original receipts and successfully complete the course. If you have any questions, contact your port agent before departing for Piney Point. Not all classes are reimbursable.Return completed application to: Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education Admissions Office, P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674-0075; or fax to (301) 994-2189. The Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education is a private, non-profit, equal opportunity institution and admits students, who are otherwise qualified, of any race, nationality or sex. The school complies with applicable laws with regard to admission, access or treatment of students in its programs or activities. 4 /13 Seafarers LOG 21 5/24/2013 2:03:40 PM �Paul Hall Center Classes Unlicensed Apprentice Water Survival Class #771 – The following individuals (above, in alphabetical order) graduated from this 60-hour course April 12: Brandon Aguigui, Kevin Alicea, Mohamed Alomari, Auston Billiot, Rhodhanes Deveon, Lorenzo Finley, Anthony Fraccalvieri, Alexander Franklin, Kadeem John, Ashley Lee, Hector Morales Ortiz, Patricia Placek, David Sanchez Flores, Noel Segovia, Shewanna Stephenson, Nick Turano and Matthew Yeackel. (Note: Not all are pictured.) BAPO – Sixteen individuals graduated from this course April 19. Completing their requirements (above, in alphabetical order) were: Kyle Bennett, Aaron Ellis, James Grant, Bernard Hall, Shari Hinton, Omari Hotl, Chase Knisley, Richard Lawson, Unis Malahi, William McCrory, Jerry Morlett Jr., Edward Seelig, Harge Semilla, Ahmed Sennain, Laurence Valerio and Oshema Watson. John Wiegman Jr., their instructor is standing at the far right in the back row. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Designated Duty Engineer – Four individuals completed the enhancement of their skills in this course April 5. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Omar Aleman, David Delano, Hurston Harcum and Jason Jones. Class Instructor Scott Ciatto is standing at the far right. Government Vessels – Eleven upgraders completed their training requirements in this course April 19. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Mohamed Alomari, Albert Bharrat, Rhod DeLeon, Marguerite Diggs, Roger Dillinger Jr., Yung-Fan Haloski, Kenneth Ledeoux, Thomas Leroy, Ruden Perez, Rey Robles and Tyree Watkins. Class Instructors Wayne Johnson and Mark Cates are the far left and far right, respectively. Advanced Firefighting – Eighteen upgraders finished their requirements in this course April 26. Those graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Francisco Anacta, Daniel Babatunde, Christopher Baxter, Stephen Blanchard, Woodrow Brown, Tenereo Cacpal, Matthew Carroll, Al Fernandez, Charles Ford, Lewis Johansen, Alvin Martin, Michael Moore, Brendan O’Brien, Windred Opare, Leland Peterson, Coda Russell, Leonard Soriano and Lee Weygandt. Their instructors, Wayne Johnson Sr., and Joe Zienda, are standing at the far left and far right, respectively. 22 Seafarers LOG 15046_JUNE2K13LOG.indd 22 Welding – Ten upgraders finished their requirements in this four-week course April 26. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Russell Bravo, Ryan Brown, Michael Fertl, Paula Gomez, Wilbert Hinton, Douglas McLaughlin, Arturo Reyes, James Ross, Michael Souza and Daniel Thompson. Class Instructor Buzzy Andrews is standing at the far right in the back row. Computer Classes - Upgrader Ali Matari (right) recently completed several computer classes while upgrading his skills in the steward department. In the photo above, he proudly shows off his certificates while posing with his instructor, Rich Prucha. Able Seaman – Twelve individuals finished this course April 12. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Matthew Alexander, Darvin Brown, Richard Cristiani, Joseph Dasteel, Jacob Gawne, Carlo Gentile, Julius Gimutao, Hamza Jinah, Jason Meyers, Yousef Mohamed, Nikita Ryshkov and Derrick Siefke. Bernabe Pelingon, their instructor, is at the far left. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Combined Basic and Advanced Firefighting – Sixteen individuals finished the enhancement of their skills in this course April 5. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Jason Babbitt, Russell Bravo, Ryan Brown, Roger Dillinger Jr., Abdulkarim Ghaleb, Steven Hamilton, John Jasinski, Ricardas Juska, Diego Lewis, Jarrod Nix, Jimmy Ocot, Robert Rocanelli, Terrance Sasnett, Winston Thompson, Zarko Vrbjanac, and Jerome Wong. Wayne Johnson Sr., and Wayne Johnson Jr., their instructors, are standing in the back row at the far left and far right, respectively. June 2013 5/24/2013 2:03:48 PM �Paul Hall Center Classes BST Renewal (SIU) - The following Seafarers (above, in alphabetical order) graduated from this course April 24: Kenneth Baker, Jimmy Broussard, Seth Davis, Jeremiah Dougherty, Michael Eaton, Ryan Galloway, Robert Hoffman, John Howard, Randy Isenhart, Carlicia Jones, Charles Mills, Mark Mize, Abraham Moreira, Harvey Owens, Nathan Putman, Ashward Rankin, Shawn Rector, Jon Richardson, Kim Tye and Fred Vanderveer. Class Instructor Wayne Johnson Jr., is at the far right. Small Arms Training – Six upgraders completed their requirements in this course April 5. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: William Dowzicky, Rick James, Erick Johnson, Thomas Moore, Robert Oppel, and Gregory White. Class Instructors Robbie Springer and Stan Beck are at the far left and far right, respectively. BST (SIU) – Twenty Seafarers graduated from this course April 19. Completing their requirements (above, in alphabetical order) were: Badr Abdullah, Alphonzo Berry, Jack Drossos, Saleh Elhubishi, Raymond Garcia, Anthony Kimbrell, Billy Love, George Maranos, Louis Mastrototaro, Leslie McGirt, Yahya Mohamed, Ryan Palmer, Rolando Pulido, Glenn Quitorio, Nate Sherrill, Jeffrey Thomas, Kervin Velazquez, Quintonio Walden, Brian Wilder and Jerome Wong. Joe Zienda, their instructor, is at the far right. Able Seaman – The following upgraders (above, in alphabetical order) graduated from this course April 12: Kevin Blackman, Carlos CayetanoMena, Jape Geonzon, Yung Fan Haloski, Alfonso Marin and Diomedes Vigo. Bernabe Pelingon, their instructor, is at left. Specially Trained Ordinary Seaman – Eleven Phase III unlicensed apprentices graduated from this course April 19. Those graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Jason Baker, Noel Fedee, Adrian Fraccarolli, Michael Hunnicutt, Derek Minnix, Ammar Mohamed, Ali Musid, Paul Nelson, Mark Stahovic, Joe Turcketta and Christopher Wing. BST (HAWAII) – Twenty individuals completed this course April 13 at the Barbers Point, Hawaiibased Seafarers Training Facility. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Alvinmar Aldana, Brandy Allender, Robert Aurand, Bradley Bong, Kevin Brown, Steven Carter, Johnisha Childs, Mark Cimino, Samuel Clark, Nashville Cole, Christian Delgado, Kathy Elmore, Sheryl Leventhal, Leonardo Paulino, Joseph Peters, Michelle Ribeiro, Jeremy Smith, Singaravelu Subramanian, Armando Tampoc and Krystal Zurek. June 2013 15046_JUNE2K13LOG_X.indd 23 Medical Care Provider – Nine upgraders completed this course April 12. Those graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Jason Babbitt, Roger Dillinger Jr., Abdulkarim Ghaleb, Steven Hamilton, James Kayser, Michael Kelly, Paul Miller, Robert Rocanelli and Zarko Vrbjanac. Class Instructor Wayne Johnson Jr., is at left. BST (Hawaii) – The following individuals (above, in no particular order) completed this course May 4 at the Seafarers Training Facility in Barbers Point, Hawaii: I Gusti Ketut Adiputra, Reginald Abroise, Matthew Brown, Olivia Carbone, Nestor Cruz, Bernardo Shepard, Felix Esprit, Erika Marquez, Micah McKinley, Robert McNeil, Devone Medlock, Nigel Montrope, Jeremy Quinn, Jamie Reiff, Jermilini San Pedro, Andrew Sepulveda, Christopher Smith and Trammel Williams. Seafarers LOG 23 5/28/2013 10:55:46 AM �Volume 75, Number 6 June 2013 Paul Hall Center Course Dates Page 21 ABOARD OVERSEAS BOSTON – Patrolman Nick Marrone II submitted these photos after an April 10 servicing of OSG’s Overseas Boston on the West Coast. Sitting left to right in the crew mess (photo above) are STOS Adolph Romero, STOS Scott Jones, AB Chad Schultz and AB Mykola Smirnov. Pictured in the galley are (photo at right, from left) SA Hernando Basilan and Chief Cook Vincent Alonzo. The remaining photo shows AB Walter Wilde working the gangway. Coast To Coast With the SIU WITH MEMBERS AT G&H TOWING – Thanks to Seafarer Lindsay Price for sending these photos of members at G&H Towing in Houston. Pictured left to right in the group photo at left below are Engineer Tony Gonzales, AB Chris Bartholmey Jr., Mate Becky Johnson and Captain Mike Zimmerman. Left to right in the group photo below in the center are Oiler Jimmy Cady Jr., Mate Nick Moraski, Engineer Bob Young Jr. and Captain Lindsay Price. Johnson and Price also are pictured below at right. ON THE ATB RESOLVE – Following a recent visit to the ATB Resolve in Jacksonville, Fla., Patrolman Brian Guiry sent these snapshots of Seafarers aboard the Crowley vessel. Left to right in the group photo above are SA Edward Smigielski, Steward/Baker Willie Frank and Chief Cook Daniel Miller. Frank is also pictured at left, while Smigielski is shown again at right. 15046_JUNE2K13LOG.indd 24 5/24/2013 2:04:04 PM � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Seafarers Log Issues 2010-2019 Description An account of the resource Volumes LXXII-LXXXI of the Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Seafarers Log Digital Copies Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 2010-2019 Document A resource containing textual data. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre text. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource June 2013 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES UNION WELCOMES NEW TONNAGE CONGRESSMAN HUNTER DELIVERS PRO-U.S. MARITIME MESSAGE CRESCENT CREWS RATIFY GAINFUL 3-YEAR PACTS MAERSK, CROWLEY MSC BRING IN NEW TONNAGE CONGRESS EXAMINES U.S.-FLAG SHIPPING MEMBERS VOW TO SUPPORT KEY MARITIME PROGRAMS; SIU TESTIFIES ST. LOUIS PORT COUNCIL HONORS THREE BIG PORT COUNCIL TURNOUT IN HAWAII INCLUDES SENATORS, CONGRESSWOMAN, MAYOR, GOVERNOR SIU ACTIVE IN FOURTH ANNUAL SAIL-IN; FOOD FOR PEACE FOCAL POINT PRESIDENT NOMINATES FOXX FOR TRANSPORTATION SECRETARY ADMIRAL SHANNON ASSUMES COMMAND AT MSC WASHINGTON URGED TO SUPPORT MERCHANT MARINE UNION’S NEW CLINIC SYSTEM OFFERS MORE CONVENIENCE COAST GUARD APPROVES PINEY POINT STCW COURSES CLASSIC BENEFITS WOUNDED WARRIOR ANGLERS, HELPS IMPROVE TRAINING ENVIRONMENT AT PHC NATION HONORS MERCHANT MARINERS COAST GUARD ISSUES REMINDER, INSTRUCTIONS FOR OBTAINING STCW SECURITY ENDORSEMENTS Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Seafarers Log Digital Copies Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 06/01/2013 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Newsprint Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context Vol. 75, No. 6 2013 Periodicals Seafarers Log http://www.seafarerslog.org/archives/files/original/4c375bc544602aed189b9d39116aa982.pdf 00ffd85f5dc8cd33d44cb1bc46109b78 PDF Text Text Volume 75, Number 7 July 2013 New Tankers Ordered General Dynamics NASSCO, a union shipyard, has announced an agreement to build at least four new vessels for American Petroleum Tankers (APT), whose ships are managed by Seafarers-contracted Crowley Maritime. The contract between the shipyard and APT includes options for four additional tankers. An artist’s rendering of one of the ships is shown here. Page 3. SHBP Scholarship Winners Announced Page 7 Maersk Continues Fleet Upgrade SIU-contracted Maersk Line, Limited last month was on schedule to complete the reflaggings of eight vessels being brought under the Stars and Stripes, including the Maersk Detroit (below). The company is replacing older ships with newer, larger ones, all of which will be enrolled in the U.S. Maritime Security Program. Page 3. Seafarers Support Military Exercise ‘Dawn Blitz 2013’ SIU members aboard the prepositioning ship USNS 1st Lt. Jack Lummus recently supported our troops participating in exercise Dawn Blitz 2013. Here, cargo splashes ashore in southern California during the multinational training. The Lummus is operated by Maersk Line, Limited. (Photo courtesy U.S. Military Sealift Command) MSC Commander Salutes Mariners Page 2 15047_JULY2K13LOG_X3.indd 1 Port Council Honors ATC President Page 4 More ‘Deep Freeze’ Photos Pages 12-13 6/27/2013 8:22:06 PM �President’s Report Big Win, but Food for Peace Fight Continues The fight isn’t finished, but the SIU helped secure a significant victory for our membership and the U.S.-flag Merchant Marine in mid-June as the U.S. House of Representatives voted down an amendment that would have wiped out American jobs by essentially gutting the Food for Peace program as we know it. Our opponents are gearing up for a likely second attempt to cripple Food for Peace (also known as Public Law/PL-480) at press time, but we will not let up, either. Meanwhile, there are some important points to take from the 220-203 vote against the original amendment that was tacked on to a much larger agriculture bill which the House ultimately also rejected. The main one Michael Sacco is that our political activities, both as an individual union and in conjunction with our allies from throughout the industry, are as vital to our survival as new ships and proper training and ample cargo. That concept itself isn’t exactly breaking news, I know, but it is a timely and powerful illustration of why we’re active on Capitol Hill. This is why we support pro-maritime, pro-worker politicians no matter the party. This is why we promote SPAD and participate in the annual congressional Sail-In, among many other grassroots efforts. This is why we ask you to make sure you’re registered to vote, to meet with your elected officials and to help get out the vote. Only 17 votes stood between maintaining tens of thousands of U.S. jobs related to PL-480 and potentially wiping them out so our government could make cash payments to foreign countries. Measured another way, the margin was even smaller: If nine votes had been reversed, the damaging amendment would have passed. Those numbers show that we can’t afford to relax. It’s still mind-boggling to me that there are people in Washington who seem eager to wipe out such an effective, time-tested program that does so much good not only for Americans, but also for people around the world. But, that’s where we are, and that’s why we will work on this issue however long it takes to not only preserve the existing program but also restore the sneaky cuts that were made to it last year. This is no time for gloating but I do want to sincerely thank our rank-and-file members for your letters and phone calls to Congress leading up that vote on the amendment. Politicians pay attention to their constituents, and whether you mailed a letter or sent an email or made a phone call urging them to keep Food for Peace intact, your voices made a difference. And this was no easy victory – we faced opposition from others in addition to the usual anti-worker suspects. Even a few traditional supporters of maritime seemingly have been hoodwinked into thinking the program might be more effective by changing it to a cash scheme through which American taxpayer dollars are handed to foreign interests with no transparency or accountability. Where those specific individuals are concerned, I don’t doubt their intent, but I believe they’ve swallowed a fish story. We will continue to post updates on this fight on our website and on our social-media pages. Meanwhile, I again thank our members for your support in this critical battle, and I urge you to remain ready to answer the call again. We’re fighting for our future and our jobs. That’s a fight I have no intention of losing. New MSC Commander Shannon Salutes U.S. Merchant Mariners Rear Adm. Thomas K. Shannon recently expressed his gratitude for the countless contributions U.S. Merchant Mariners—past and present—have made toward the defense and prosperity of our country. Admiral Shannon is commander of the Military Sealift Command (MSC), the world’s largest employer of U.S. Merchant Mariners. On May 22, Shannon led a rousing round of applause that was directed to a contingent of apprentices from the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center who participated in National Maritime Day Ceremonies at the U.S. Department of Transportation in Washington, D.C. More recently, he paid tribute to mariners in his Memorial Day column which was printed in the June 2013 edition of one of his command’s authorized publications, the Sealift. Shannon, in the piece which ran under the headline “Remembering The Forgotten,” in part said: “Memorial Day is traditionally a time to honor those who not only served our United States of America, but those who in their service made the ultimate sacrifice for our country. Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, Coast Guard: these are our men and women who bear arms and go in harm’s way because they are the warriors of our great nation. Each year in May, we remember and honor our warrior heroes. “But there is another important group of men and women who do not wear the uniforms of our armed forces, yet still willingly go in harm’s way for our country, and they have done so since our nation was born. “These are our brave, self-sacrificing men and women of our United States Merchant Marine.” After noting that merchant mariners from the 13 united colonies led the way to our freedom more than more two centuries ago, Shannon said that they have been part of our nation’s security and prosperity ever since. He recounted mariner’s contributions during the Civil War, World Wars I and II, and the Korean and Vietnam Wars. “Our merchant mariners unloaded cargo ships in Kuwait harbor under threat of enemy missile attack during the first Gulf War,” the admiral said while changing his In this file photo from 2012, Bosun Kissinfor Taylor (front) carries a stroke victim to safety aboard the Horizon Reliance as Chief Engineer Sean Stevens guards from behind. Rear Adm. Thomas K. Shannon, commander, Military Sealift Command, addresses the audience during the May 22 Maritime Day Ceremony in Washington, D.C. focus to the modern era. “Today, they support our Navy and our nation in Afghanistan and the Arabian Gulf, delivering life-saving mine-resistant, ambush-protected vehicles; Navy patrol boats, fuel and combat supplies to our troops.” Shannon stated that our nation has benefitted from the professionalism and expertise of civilian American mariners for 237 years. “Whenever – wherever – duty calls, they deliver, keeping our Navy on station, forward deployed and ready to face any aggressor,” he said. “Our Navy is proud of our civilian mariners, and on May 22 each year, we honor our shipmates who have crossed the bar for the last time,” Admiral Shannon concluded. “In this month of remembrance, as we honor all who have fallen in service to our nation, please remember the men and women of our U.S. Merchant Marine.” On behalf of the crew of the tug Explorer, Crowley’s Andrew Legge (left) accepts a letter of commendation from CSA Chairman Capt. Bruce Fernie. SIU-Crewed Ships Earn Safety Recognition Numerous Union-Contracted Companies Honored by CSA Volume 75, Number 7 July 2013 The SIU online: www.seafarers.org The Seafarers LOG (ISSN 1086-4636) is published monthly by the Seafarers International Union; Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters, AFL-CIO; 5201 Auth Way; Camp Springs, MD 20746. Telephone (301) 899-0675. Periodicals postage paid at Southern Maryland 20790-9998. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to the Seafarers LOG, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. Communications Director, Jordan Biscardo; Managing Editor/Production, Jim Guthrie; Assistant Editor, Brian Ahern; Photographer, Harry Gieske; Administrative Support, Misty Dobry. Copyright © 2013 Seafarers International Union, AGLIW. All Rights Reserved. The Seafarers International Union engaged an environmentally friendly printer for the production of this newspaper. 2 Seafarers LOG 15047_JULY2K13LOG.indd 2 As usual, the SIU and its contracted operators were well-represented at the annual safety awards gathering hosted by the Chamber of Shipping of America (CSA). This year’s event took place May 23 in New Orleans, and SIU-crewed vessels received many accolades. The Horizon Reliance and the Crowley tug Explorer took home some of the top honors awarded for rescues, while numerous union-contracted companies earned awards for operating at least the last two years without a mariner involved in a lost-time injury. The Horizon Lines vessel, in fact, received citations of merit for two separate rescues. The first saw the Jones Act ship save three people whose sailboat sank off Hawaii, while the second involved the rescue of an elderly man who suffered a stroke 1,100 miles off Oahu. The crew of the Explorer received a letter of commendation helping rescue two people from a disabled vessel 30 miles west of Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands. Altogether, the CSA represents 35 U.S.-based companies that own, operate or charter oceangoing tankers, containerships, and other vessels engaged in both the domestic and international trades. The association also represents “other entities that maintain a commercial interest in the operation of such oceangoing vessels.” During the awards ceremony, CSA President Joseph Cox pointed out that since the group first convened in 1958, there’s been tremendous growth in the number of companies earning Jones F. Devlin awards (for extended periods without lost-time injuries). “This extraordinary record is directly attributable to the professionalism of our seafarers and the dedication of shore-based company personnel to safe operation,” he said. He added that the CSA’s “involvement in safety is longstanding. We continue to represent the industry, domestically and internationally, on safety issues encompassing every facet of ship operations. It is, therefore, only fitting that an industry so focused on safety, publicly recognizes the skills and dedication of the women and men who are responsible for actions in keeping with the highest traditions of the sea – aid to those in peril.” Seafarers-contracted recipients of the 2012 Devlin awards included Alaska Tanker Company, Crescent Towing, Crowley Maritime and several of its subsidiaries, E.N. Bisso & Son, Farrell Lines, American Overseas Marine (AMSEA), Harley Marine, Higman Barge Lines, Horizon Lines, Keystone Shipping, Maersk Line Limited, Moran Towing, Ocean Shipholdings, OSG Ship Management, Patriot Contract Services, Seabulk Tankers, Seabulk Towing, Totem Ocean Trailer Express (TOTE) and USS Vessel Management. July 2013 6/25/2013 4:31:47 PM �Tanker Order Means New SIU Jobs NASSCO to Build at Least 4 Jones Act Ships for APT The NASSCO shipyard is pictured at sunrise. The yard employs union workers and has produced numerous Seafarerscontracted vessels. (Photo by Ken Wright) SMPPP Announces Positive Changes The Seafarers Money Purchase Pension Plan (SMPPP) recently announced a few modifications designed to improve benefits and expedite payments. In mid-June, a letter was mailed to participants (it’s also posted on the SIU website) alerting them that as of July 1, administrative functions of the SMPPP will be performed by the Seafarers Plans’ office in Camp Springs, Md. Previously, a third-party administrator handled them. Participants now may direct SMPPP inquiries through the Plan’s toll-free number: 1-800252-4674 (prompt number six on the menu choices). Another modification allows participants over the age of 70 to withdraw their full account balances in the form of a lump-sum distribution even if they continue to work in covered employment. Married employees with account balances greater than $5,000 must obtain spousal consent for the distribution. Also, a less-restrictive one-year waiting period has been adopted when it comes to eligibility for withdrawing money. Specifically, a participant is now eligible for a withdrawal benefit if he or she intends to leave the industry and has not worked for a signatory employer for at least the past 12 months. (This change essentially negates the need for hardship distributions, and with that in mind, the hardship pilot program has been discontinued.) In the letter to participants, Seafarers Plans Administrator Maggie Bowen noted, “In considering these new benefit options, please be mindful that there may be tax consequences. You should discuss these potential tax implications with your tax advisor.” Based on these changes, updated forms and a revised summary plan description booklet have been posted in the Member Benefits section of the SIU website, www.seafarers.org. The guide, participant letter and enrollment form are located under the Seafarers Money Purchase Pension Plan tab, while the enrollment form and three separate application forms may be found under the Applications tab. July 2013 15047_JULY2K13LOG_X3.indd 3 New SIU-crewed tankers are on the way following an early June announcement from San Diego-based General Dynamics NASSCO, a union shipyard. NASSCO has signed an agreement with an affiliate of American Petroleum Tankers (APT) for the design and construction of four 50,000 deadweight ton LNG-conversion-ready product carriers with a 330,000 barrel cargo capacity. The contract includes options to build four additional ships. Seafarers-contracted Crowley Maritime manages vessels for APT. Construction of the first tanker is scheduled to begin in the third quarter of 2014, with deliveries slated to start in the fourth quarter of 2015, continuing through 2016. The four-ship APT contract will add as many as 800 jobs at NASSCO during construction and a substantial number of shipboard jobs once the vessels are sailing. The 610-foot-long tankers are a new “ECO” design that offers improved fuel efficiency and incorporates the latest environmental protection features, including a ballast water treatment system. The ships will be designed by DSEC, a subsidiary of Daewoo Shipbuilding & Marine Engineering (DSME) of Busan, South Korea. According to NASSCO, the tankers will have dual-fuel-capable auxiliary engines and the ability to accommodate future installation of an LNG fuel-gas system. “Credit goes to everyone involved with this project, including the SIU members who eventually will sail aboard the new ships,” stated SIU Vice President Contracts George Tricker. “It’s hard to overstate the significance of new ships being built for the Jones Act trade.” Fred Harris, president of General Dynamics NASSCO (and a former union mariner), said, “By continuing to bring the most economical and environmentally sound technology to Jones Act operators, these ECO tankers show our continued commitment to be one of the most innovative shipyards in America. I am pleased to renew our partnership with APT on this exciting new program. Along with TOTE, this is the second return customer we have welcomed back to NASSCO within the past six months, which speaks to the high-quality workmanship of our skilled workforce.” Rob Kurz, CEO of APT, said, “This investment demonstrates our continued commitment to building and operating ships for the U.S. Jones Act trade. We are proud to bring new U.S.-built tonnage into the market at this exciting time, helping our country achieve its longstanding strategic objective of energy independence.” Seafarers Crew up New Maersk Containerships Company Invests Capital in Eight Newer, Larger Vessels Seafarers-contracted Maersk Line, Limited (MLL) was on schedule to complete a major upgrade in its containership fleet as this edition went to press. The company is replacing eight vessels with eight newer, larger ones by reflagging them under the Stars and Stripes. The process started in late April and was slated to wrap up in late June or early July. “The efforts of the mariners on board the transitioning vessels and colleagues ashore have been excellent, assuring a timely and smooth progression of the reflagging process,” stated MLL President and CEO John Reinhart. “We want to express our gratitude to the U.S. Transportation Command, the Maritime Administration, the U.S. Coast Guard, and our labor union partners. With their support, these eight ships will increase the versatility of the U.S.-flag fleet.” As previously reported, all eight vessels will join the Maritime Security Program (MSP) and Voluntary Intermodal Sealift Agreement (VISA). “We are pleased to bring more modern and useful assets into the MSP and VISA fleets,” added Reinhart. “The vessels will augment our nation’s security and sustain jobs for the U.S. Merchant Marine, the fourth arm of our national defense.” The new additions are the Maersk Chicago, Maersk Denver, Maersk Detroit, Maersk Memphis, Maersk Columbus, Maersk Pittsburgh, Maersk Hartford and Maersk Atlanta. They replace the Maersk Virginia, Sealand Meteor, Sealand Champion, Maersk Wyoming, Sealand Mercury, Maersk Georgia, Sealand Eagle and Sealand Racer. The reflaggings were taking place in Jebel Ali. The vessels are joining Maersk Line’s weekly Middle East Container Line service (MECL1). According to the company, this route serves commercial customers and the U.S. military, and it transports U.S.-grown food aid. “MECL1 will be the industry’s only direct U.S.-flag service to and from the U.S. East Coast and Pakistan, and the service includes a new stop in Algeciras, Spain,” MLL announced. The company added, “Since 2000, MLL has invested more than $1.75 billion dollars to modernize its fleet in support of the U.S. government and military. The vessels are about 10 years younger than the outgoing ships, offering improved fuel efficiency and environmental performance.” The eight incoming vessels are named “in honor of American cities that have brought industrial vitality to the U.S. economy through manufacturing, finance, transportation, and exports.” The Maersk Hartford is part of MLL’s influx of newer, larger vessels crewed by SIU members. Seafarers LOG 3 6/27/2013 8:22:08 PM �ATC CEO Earns Labor-Management Award Safety, Commitment to Workers Highlighted at MTD Gathering The strong relationship between American maritime labor and Seafarers-contracted Alaska Tanker Company (ATC) was highlighted May 30 as ATC President and CEO Anil Mathur was honored with the Puget Sound Maritime Trades Port Council’s 2013 Labor-Management Award. Presented to Mathur in Seattle by SIU Tacoma Port Agent Joe Vincenzo, the award recognized Mathur’s “deep appreciation for and promotion of maritime commerce, safe marine practices, and progressive operations/labor relations on the waterfront.” In his introductory remarks, Vincenzo said Mathur was well-known and respected for his focus on safety and his dedication to ensuring mariners get the training and opportunities earned by their hard work. “If you looked at his bio, you might think someone who’s a graduate of Harvard Business School and who also has an engineering degree would look at seagoing operations as just a series of numbers and calculations and schedules. But that is not who Anil is,” Vincenzo said. “He is a compassionate leader, someone whose authority and leadership is respected even while being a true friend to his employees.” Mathur has served as ATC’s president and CEO for more than 13 years. During that time, the company – which has four Celebrating the award are (from left) ATC Labor Relations Director Bill Cole, SIU Port Agent Joe Vincenzo, ATC President/CEO Anil Mathur and Port Council President Vince O’Halloran. state-of-the-art, SIU-crewed tankers carrying crude oil from Alaska to the West Coast – has moved nearly a billion barrels without spilling a single drop of oil into the sea. Its safety record leads the industry and the company has only had one losttime injury (a finger injury) over the past 11 years. “Alaska Tanker Company has a wellearned, long-term, richly deserved identity as a safe operator every time, all the time,” Vincenzo said. “Just today I was talking with a chief steward in the ATC fleet and he said that Anil was adamant about safety and by that he meant, and I quote, ‘[Anil] really wants you to go home in one piece, the same way you came to the ship.’” That kind of leadership, said Vince O’Halloran, president of Puget Sound Maritime Trades Port Council, is something to look up to. “Anil is the kind of leader all of us working on the waterfront admire,” O’Halloran said. “He is committed to running his operation in a manner that respects the environment and the safety of his crews. He wants his people to come home to their families in as good shape as when they left – and they do, despite the often harsh environments in which they earn a living.” Touching on those harsh conditions and ATC’s impressive ability to hold such a high safety standard despite them, Vincenzo quoted Mathur himself. “It is one thing to preach safety in the controlled environment we experience in our onshore offices,” Mathur said. “It is quite another to deliver predictable, safe and environmentally sound operations day-in and day-out, in every job, in the harsh environment of our trade, for well over a decade.” That commitment to safety and the wellbeing of his employees, Vincenzo added, not only exemplifies why Mathur was given the award; it also defines his legacy. “If you ask anyone to name the first thing that comes to mind when they hear Anil’s name, they’ll all say the same word: safety,” Vincenzo said. “He cares about every single man and woman on those ships and about the loved ones they go home to when the voyage is done.” TOTE’s Planned LNG Containerships Receive Global Honors for Innovation Seafarers-contracted TOTE, Inc. early last month became the first U.S. business to take home the Next Generation Shipping award at the Nor-Shipping conference, a high-profile international maritime forum. The company was recognized for its liquefied natural gas-powered (LNG) containerships, ordered late last year and scheduled for delivery in 2015. TOTE announced the honor June 7, at the end of the four-day gathering in Oslo, Norway. An independent panel including representatives from the International Maritime Organization, The Norwegian Marine Technology Research Institute and other groups selected honorees for TOTE’s LNG-powered containerships, shown in this artist’s rendering, are scheduled to begin sailing in 2015. several awards. Construction of the LNG-powered vessels will take place at General Dynamics NASSCO in San Diego – a union shipyard. TOTE’s order is for at least two ships and includes options for up to three additional ones. “To say we are both honored and humbled by this prestigious internationally recognized award would be a significant understatement,” said Anthony Chiarello, TOTE’s president and CEO. “The team at TOTE, along with our partners at NASSCO, has spent many months working on this project, which we believe will have a lasting impact on our industry and the future of ship design. While we are proud to be the first-ever ship owner to construct LNG-powered container vessels, we are quite confident we will most certainly not be the last.” The conference takes place every other year, and the awards recognize achievement in three areas: energy efficiency, innovative ship design and young entrepreneurship. With a focus on innovation, the Next Generation Shipping award honors the most promising design for ships that will be at sea in the coming decade. According to TOTE, “The award is given to the ship project demonstrating the greatest advances in design, as assessed with respect to energy efficiency, innovation, suitability and flexibility, technology utilization, safety and security, and environmental sustainability.” The LNG-powered vessels will operate in the Jones Act market between Jacksonville, Fla., and San Juan, P.R. Each will be 764 feet long, with capacity of 3,100 20-foot-equivalent units (TEU). Construction of the first ship is slated to begin in March 2014. LNG fuel is projected to reduce ship emissions “95 percent below even the world’s most stringent air quality standards,” TOTE reported. “LNG will virtually eliminate sulfur dioxide and particulate matter, and results in reductions of carbon dioxide and nitrous oxide beyond any other fuel source.” Proudly Supporting Wounded Warrior Anglers As reported in detail in the June LOG and online, the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education on April 24 hosted the inaugural Seafarers Waterfront Classic, a fishing tournament which benefited both the school and the Wounded Warrior Anglers of America. As a result of the fundraiser, the union enthusiastically presented a check for $20,000 to Wounded Warrior Anglers officials at the organization’s headquarters in Cape Coral, Fla. SIU Port Agent Kris Hopkins (third from right) made the presentation to Wounded Warrior Anglers President and co-founder David Souders (fourth from left). Also pictured (from left) are veteran Guy Lee, caregiver Rosa Vazquez, veteran Angel Vazquez, Wounded Warrior Anglers VP and co-founder Judy Souders and veteran and board member Tony “The Judge” Rogers. Visit woundedwarrioranglers.org for more information about the Wounded Warrior Anglers of America. 4 Seafarers LOG 15047_JULY2K13LOG_X.indd 4 July 2013 6/26/2013 9:45:30 AM �Maritime, Labor Communities Mourn Late Senator Lautenberg Legislator Was Longtime SIU Ally Outgoing ITF General Secretary David Cockroft (left) poses with an award and SIU Secretary-Treasurer and ITF Seafarers’ Section Chairman David Heindel on the eve of Cockroft’s retirement from the federation. ITF Changes Leadership Outgoing International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF) General Secretary David Cockroft spent his final day as the ITF’s official leader May 31 formally handing the reins over to his successor, Stephen Cotton. Cotton has served as acting general secretary since being elected by the ITF executive board in October of last year. He’s spent the time since then gradually taking over many of the day-to-day responsibilities prior to Cockroft’s official departure. “From June 1, Stephen will assume all the powers, duties and responsibilities of the post,” Cockroft said. “I am not saying that from then on he is on his own. I will continue to provide any advice which he asks for and I will participate in all the forthcoming regional conferences, but the decision and the management of the ITF secretariat will be his.” The SIU is one of the approximately 700 unions affiliated with the ITF, which is headquartered in London. Those affiliates are based in 150 countries and they collectively represent millions of transport workers. SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel chairs the ITF Seafarers’ Section. Cotton praised Cockroft’s more than 20 years of leadership as the ITF’s general secretary. In a message to his ITF colleagues, Cotton said Cockroft’s reign had seen unprecedented growth in the ITF’s operations and better working conditions around the world. “He rigorously pursued international solidarity actions, no more so than when trade union leaders were victimized, assaulted or even murdered,” Cotton said. “His persistent and determined campaigns were successful on many occasions in obtaining the release of those who had been imprisoned.” Cockroft, meanwhile, said the ITF could expect big things from Cotton. “The ITF is a great organization and I have every confidence that it will continue to grow in strength and importance under Stephen’s leadership,” he said. While Cockroft’s retirement will take ITF General Secretary Stephen Cotton him out of the ITF’s day-to-day operations, the outgoing general secretary said he’ll still be available if the organization needs him. He added he still plans to fulfill some global union duties for a period of time and will attend a series of conferences later this year. “I will continue to carry some global union responsibilities for some time, and I will attend the series of regional conferences which are planned for the remainder of this year and the ITF women’s conference, which will be held in New Delhi next year,” Cockroft said. “I will also continue to serve as director of Seafarers’ Rights International, which although totally independent of the ITF is still based at ITF House.” Cotton said he appreciated Cockroft’s willingness to stay involved, adding he was ready to begin the ITF’s next phase. “I now look forward to working with all of you, as we enter a new phase in the continuing development of the ITF and in our efforts to meet the enormous challenges that face us,” Cotton said. Sen. Frank Lautenberg (D-N.J.), a longtime supporter of maritime and the labor movement, died June 3 at age 89. Lautenberg, who served as the chairman of the Senate Subcommittee on Surface Transportation and Merchant Marine Infrastructure, Safety and Security, was a leader on a variety of maritime issues, including the Jones Act, the Maritime Security Program, Coast Guard funding and shipping safety. He was also the last remaining World War II veteran serving in the Senate. “Senator Lautenberg will be greatly missed,” said SIU President Michael Sacco. “He was a dedicated public servant who fought to protect the country and keep Americans working. His support of the U.S. Merchant Marine was ironclad and he was a tireless defender of the nation’s mariners.” Lautenberg’s strong support of maritime was made clear in his keynote address during the 2011 National Maritime Day ceremonies in Washington, D.C. “I witnessed firsthand the difference the merchant marine makes. I have tremendous respect for our country’s mariners. The work that you do is vital,” Lautenberg said during his 2011 speech. “You are civilians who are patriots, and we wouldn’t be where we are today without the heroic contributions of mariners. I salute the courage and service of those who fought on merchant ships and who contribute so much to our security and economy.” Throughout his career, Lautenberg often used his position to promote maritime safety and training. He introduced legislation in 2009 that addressed the system of medical evaluations for U.S. mariners, backlogs in the documentation system and the role fatigue plays in maritime casualties. Lautenberg was first elected to the Senate in 1982 following a successful business career. While he retired from the Senate in 2000, he decided to run again in 2002 when the state’s other Senate seat became vacant. Throughout Sen. Lautenberg speaks at the 2011 National Maritime Day gathering in Washington, D.C. it all, Lautenberg was a committed supporter of the labor movement. “He never forgot his working class roots as he became enormously wealthy as an entrepreneur,” said AFL-CIO President Richard Trumka. “Until his passing, he was committed to the fight for the empowerment of workers and for ensuring equal opportunity for everyone.” Following his death, tributes celebrating Lautenberg’s service in the Senate came from all over. Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel praised Lautenberg as a “strong advocate for the men and women of our armed forces and their military families,” while Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood said the nation lost a “true champion” with Lautenberg’s passing. “Frank’s tireless advocacy for transportation safety saved many lives – he truly was the Safety Senator,” LaHood said. SIU Helps Make Sail-In Successful Reminders Concerning Credentials Officials in the union’s manpower office are offering members some reminders regarding the maintenance of merchant mariner credentials (MMC). It is especially important that new endorsement stickers are placed on the next empty MMC page and added in order as numbered by the National Maritime Center (NMC). Do NOT place new endorsement stickers on pages that already have endorsements or writing on them. Please read the instructions provided by the NMC prior to adding your stickers. Also, mariners should NEVER cover up anything in their MMC with new stickers. If a mariner puts stickers over a page that already contains a sticker, their MMC is automatically void and he/she cannot ship on it until a duplicate is is- July 2013 15047_JULY2K13LOG_X2.indd 5 sued by the NMC. Manpower officials therefore urge members to take great care when adding new endorsement stickers to their credentials, making sure that they are affixed properly. Anyone requiring assistance should contact their local port agent or the admissions office at the Paul Hall Center. In addition, mariners should be sure that they are aware of what endorsements they currently hold in their MMCs, both international and domestic. This is extremely important when renewing MMCs with the Coast Guard. Be sure to check any newly issued MMC for errors which may occur in issuance. Mariners who notice an error should contact the NMC as soon as possible at 888427-5662 This year’s U.S. Maritime Industry Congressional Sail-In proved successful as SIU officials and many other representatives from throughout the industry converged on Capitol Hill. As reported in last month’s LOG and on the SIU website, 135 participants from all segments of the industry were involved in 157 meetings with members of the House and Senate or their staffs. Pictured after one of those meetings on May 8 are (from left) John Hourihan of Crowley, Nick Martine of Lockheed Martin, U.S. Rep. Steve Southerland (R-Fla.), SIU VP Nick Marrone, and Dave Weathers of AMO. Seafarers LOG 5 6/26/2013 4:39:23 PM �Piracy Report Shows Shift In Attacks to West Africa A new report on the human costs of maritime piracy has found that in 2012, the number of vessels and mariners attacked off West Africa surpassed those attacked by Somalia-based pirates (on Africa’s east coast). That’s a first in the three years since the annual reports were started. The new 50-page document was produced through joint efforts by three organizations: Oceans Beyond Piracy (OBP), the International Maritime Bureau (IMB), and the Maritime Piracy Humanitarian Response Program (MPHRP). Unveiled June 18 at a gathering in London, it is available for download at the OBP website: oceansbeyondpiracy.org The report finds that incidents of violence against mariners remain high, and while there has been an 80 percent drop of attacks off the coast of east Africa, the average period for hostages who remain captive there exceeds two years. The report also includes a statistical analysis of the violence caused by acts of piracy, analysis of seafarer interviews discussing their perception of piracy, and sections discussing the different threats and economic impacts faced by mariners off east and west Africa. According to Kaija Hurlburt of OBP, “The report shows that continued vigilance and better information sharing is needed to relieve the plight of seafarers; as long as one hostage remains in captivity, the human cost is too high.” Roy Paul of MPHRP added, “Seafarer welfare, both during and after being taken hostage, remains a huge concern and the effects of pi- racy reach far beyond the days spent in captivity.” According to Pottengal Mukundan of the IMB, “This report is unique in that it contains information submitted by flag States, online surveys of seafarer concerns regarding piracy, as well as firsthand accounts from released seafarers.” The report stated that in 2012, Somali pirate attacks were aimed at ships carrying 851 mariners, compared with 3,863 the prior year. West African pirates attacked 966 mariners last year. An introductory message in the report points out, “The challenge of piracy cannot be resolved solely at sea. Piracy needs to be addressed on shore–where it starts–if it is ever to be resolved. In both Somalia and the Gulf of Guinea region, this will require cooperation between efforts at sea and those on land to build maritime security and provide job opportunities to potential pirates…. “For our part, the Oceans Beyond Piracy team is working with Somalis to draft their maritime strategy. This will be a long-term project given the rebuilding that Somalia will need to undergo. It is clear that the cost of suppression is large and unsustainable while the cost of building Somalia offers the opportunity to develop a permanent and lasting solution…. “It is important to remember that suppressing piracy and solving piracy are very different things. In the end, piracy can only be solved effectively on shore. Only when Somalis and West Africans have greater access to jobs than to guns will they turn to work rather than to piracy.” Pilots Unanimously Approve Contract SIU Norfolk Port Agent Georg Kenny reports that the union has successfully negotiated a new five-year agreement with the Maryland Pilots Association. Members unanimously approved the contract, which calls for annual wage increases, maintains top-level health benefits, boosts seniority pay, adds personal days and includes other improvements. Kenny and Seafarer Doug Gardner (center) negotiated for the union. Also pictured are company 1st VP John Hamill (left) and President Eric Nielsen (right). Kenny credited everyone involved for amicable, productive negotiations. The contract covers 20 Seafarers. 6 Seafarers LOG 15047_JULY2K13LOG_X.indd 6 The 50-page report is available for download in PDF form at oceansbeyondpiracy.org ITF Official Calls for Fair Treatment of Workers An SIU official who also serves in a key position for the International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF) recently pointed to runaway flags as a prime example of the need for nations to work together to protect workers’ rights. SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel, who chairs the ITF Seafarers’ Section, said in a prepared statement coinciding with the G8 meeting in northern Ireland that fairness must be put at the heart of national economies. He also called for application of the same principles in the maritime industry. Heindel was echoing and building upon formal comments by Global Unions, a key international labor organization. That group urged leading nations to stop rewarding unscrupulous companies and to start standing up for workers. Heindel wrote, “The Global Unions’ statement to the G8 Lough Erne Summit makes a number of important points and valuable suggestions, particularly on the subjects of taxation and transparency. Unfortunately, we in the maritime industry are very familiar with the pitfalls of tax avoidance, offshore tax havens and meticulously planned lack of accountability on the parts of some companies. Specifically, the so-called flag of convenience (FOC) system for decades has facilitated abuse of maritime workers through those avenues. “For those who don’t know the system, it is one in which a vessel flies a flag different from that of its owner’s country,” Heindel continued. “Quite often, FOC ships also carry multinational crews supplied by agents from yet another foreign country. It’s a tricky system that has been in place for decades, and it often allows owners and operators to turn a short-term profit while crew members suffer all sorts of mistreatment. That abuse ranges from being underpaid or not paid at all, to being blackmailed into paying for jobs, to sailing on vessels that are so unsafe, they literally may cost the seafarers their lives. And lest anyone think that this isn’t all about avoidance, know that FOC ships routinely change names and registries, sometimes while in midvoyage.” He went on to describe the lack of transparency and accountability in the FOC system as “nothing short of appalling. A litany of incidents has repeatedly proven that when it’s time for negligent shipowners and operators to pay for their liabilities, nothing is simple. If a ship flies the flag of Panama, is crewed by a Greek manning agent, has ownership in Cyprus, and carries a crew of Russians, Filipinos and Indians, who’s responsible for an accident? Who can enforce basic minimum standards for shipboard safety, rest, sanitation, etc.?” Citing a recent example, he pointed out that Britain’s Maritime Investigation Branch completed a comprehensive study of the sinking of the FOC vessel Swanland. It proved that the ship hadn’t been properly maintained and was severely weakened by corrosion. “Six mariners lost their lives because people behind desks shirked their responsibilities while pursuing greater profits,” Heindel added. He concluded, “Collectively, we can and must do better. The observations and recommendations raised by the Global Unions organization are excellent starting points, and the ITF is ready, willing and able to help.” The Global Unions statement to the G8 is linked in a June 19 news post on www.seafarers.org. Among other points, the group stated, “As the social crisis escalates, fair taxation has moved to the center of the political debate. The sheer scale of the tax evasion and aggressive tax avoidance mechanisms revealed by one corporate tax scandal after the other is matched only by the injustice of workers paying for the crisis with their jobs, while corporations deny our ailing economies the revenue they so badly need.” July 2013 6/26/2013 9:45:34 AM �SHBP Awards $132,000 in Scholarships Three Seafarers and five dependents now are better equipped to pursue their respective higher education objectives thanks to grants totaling $132,000 that were given to them by the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan (SHBP). The SHBP Scholarship Committee, which convened May 10 in Chicago, selected Seafarers Annie Nodd, Timothy White and Harry Borden along with dependents Joederick Lata, Catherine Vu, Genebelle Ajoste, Daniel Mulcahy and Maja Sawicka as recipients of the 2013 Charlie Logan Scholarships. Nodd was tagged to receive a $20,000 grant to offset the financial challenges of a four-year degree, while White and Borden each were designated to garner $6,000 for use toward two-year degrees. All five dependents landed endowments of $20,000 to assist in realizing their educational aspirations at four-year colleges or universities. Annie Nodd SA Annie Nodd hails from Mobile, Ala. A 1996 graduate of Blount High School in Prichard, Ala., Sister Nodd signed on with the SIU in 1998 after completing the unlicensed apprentice program the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education (PHC) in Piney Point, Md. She sails in the deep sea division and has upgraded her skills on at least eight occasions at the PHC, most recently in 2012. “Although I enjoyed sailing around the world (during her voyages aboard union–crewed vessels), I always dreamed of going to college,” Nodd said in her scholarship application package. “I tried to pursue that dream from 2000 to 2001 by attending Bishop State College in Mobile, Ala., and majoring in business administration.” Because of her shipping schedule, however, Nodd was able to complete only one semester of work at Bishop. As a result, she pushed her dream of higher education aside and devoted her total energies toward her career at sea. “Since recently upgrading at the PHC, my desire to further my education again has become a major priority,” she said. “I would like to pursue a degree in business administration with a minor as a registered nutritionist.” Sister Nodd hopes to continue her education at Bishop State Community College or Faulkner University. Timothy White AB Timothy White signed on with the union in 2007 in the port of Norfolk. He currently sails in the deep sea division aboard Maersk Line, Limited’s Maersk Virginia. Born in Portsmouth, Va., Brother White’s secondary education background includes stints at Green Run High School and Kempsville High School. He earned his GED from the Virginia Beach, Va.based Adult Learning Center. After obtaining his GED, Brother White initially was employed by Tickmaster. He then moved on to a painter position at the Norfolk Shipbuilding and Drydock Corporation. White initially sailed as a wiper during the dawn of his career as a Seafarer. “My dream was to become a QMED or an engineer,” White said in his scholarship application package. As time passed, however, his outlook changed and he decided that the deck department was a better fit for his interests. “Within the last two years, I successfully upgraded to able-bodied seaman,” he said. White pointed out that although he never planned on becoming a merchant mariner, he has no regrets in his decisions. “My career as a merchant mariner has been exciting,” he said, adding that he has been able to explore the world and meet many people from a variety of cultures. “Six years into my career as a Seafarer, I’m steadily moving up the union,” he continued. “I plan on becoming a bosun in a couple of years.” White added that he is a forward thinker and is constantly exploring avenues to enhance his career and further his education. He is on a mission to become the first in July 2013 15047_JULY2K13LOG.indd 7 his family of three siblings to earn a college degree. White praised the union for reaching out to the membership by making the opportunity to land a scholarship possible. If selected to receive one, White said, “I would take full advantage of the Seafarers Scholarship and conduct myself responsibly. I think that this is an amazing opportunity for people such as me to better ourselves and our careers.” Brother White’s goal is to become a computer engineer. He has applied to Advanced Technology Institute, Tidewater Tech and Tidewater Community College. Harry Borden ABG Harry Borden joined the SIU in 2002 in the port of Ft. Lauderdale following his completion of training at the PHC. He sails in the deep sea division. Born in New York, Brother Borden is a 1979 graduate of Suffern High School. While in high school, he was active in martial arts, track and field and bodybuilding. Brother Borden was lauded for his writing and artistic abilities during high school and spent a great deal of his free time assisting in theater productions in his home town. Following his graduation, Brother Borden joined the U.S. Navy. After being honorably discharged, he worked in several firms in New York’s financial district. At one juncture, “I was attending a company-sponsored course to become a broker,” he said in his scholarship application package. “After the crash (stock market) of 1987, that ceased, but I found that I had a love for the workings of the financial markets.” In the years that followed, Brother Borden continued on his quest to find his true niche. This pursuit took him to Miami where he served as manager for two South Beach restaurants. During his off-duty time, he worked with fashion photographers and sound production engineers to satisfy his appetite for creative pursuits and the arts. Brother Borden has accumulated college credits at Rockland Community College, State University of New York and Miami Dade College. He will pursue his degree at Broward Community College, Florida Atlantic University, or one of several Florida-based art institutes. Joederick Lata Joederick Lata was born in Maui, Hawaii, and is the son of deep sea Chief Cook Joey Lata (and mother, Merill, a secretary). Lata has one brother and a sister. He is a 2013 graduate of Auburn Riverside High School in Auburn, Wash., where he finished with an overall 3.976 grade point average. Lata was a member of the National Honor Society, held membership in his school’s Key and Student Leadership Clubs, and participated in track and field and gymnastics. He held the offices as key club treasurer, junior class president and sophomore class secretary. Lata was exceedingly active his community and did volunteer work at the Auburn Food Bank, the Humane Society and at the Auburn Children’s Home. His ambition is to protect and preserve the world’s environment. “For as long as I can remember, the need to take care of the world around me has been a top priority in my life,” he said in in his scholarship application package. Lata moved from his native Hawaii to Washington when he was six years of age. “Coming straight from Hawaii and living in a brand new state was frightening to a young 6-year-old,” he said. “I found comfort in the outdoors…. I loved the feel of warm ocean water and the crispness of the Washington air. While the people in my life came and left, nature was always there.” One day while brainstorming in one of his high school classes, Lata recalls calculating the amount of trash that would be produced in the world annually if a single classroom like his generated five pounds daily and his school comprised 100 classrooms. Based on the fact that the world’s population is about 7 billion people and a significant number of them attend school daily, he reasoned that the amount of trash produced annually would be astronomical. What really registered with him, however, were the questions: what happens to all of that trash, how it was disposed of and what impact did its disposal have on the environment? “From then on, I made the decision not to go into the medical field like I planned, but instead to follow my passion to pursue a career in civil/environmental engineering,” he said. “I want to find ways to keep the world as pure as it can be. It’s a lofty dream, but one person can make a difference.” Lata will pursue his degree in civil/environmental engineering at the University of Washington in Seattle, at California Polytechnic State University or at Seattle University. Catherine Vu Catherine Vu is the daughter of FOWT Allen Newgen (and mother Tiffany, a hair stylist). Born in Guam, she has one sister. Vu is a 2013 graduate of Garden Grove High School in Garden Grove, Calif. She posted an overall 4.02 grade point average and ranked 35th in her class of 617 students. Vu was a member of the National Honor Society, was active in the California Scholarship Federation and held office in a number of school and civic organizations. In the athletic arena, she was a four-year member of Garden Grove’s volleyball squad. She also was a member of the track team during her sophomore and senior years. Vu hopes to receive her degree in engineering or mathematics while studying at the University of California, Los Angeles; the University of California, San Diego; or the University of California, Berkeley. Genebelle Ajoste Genebelle Ajoste was born in the Republic of the Philippines and is the daughter of deep sea GUDE Eugene Ajoste (and mother, Belinda, a homemaker). She has three siblings: two brothers and one sister. Ajoste is a 2013 graduate of Long Beach Polytechnic High School in Long Beach, Calif. She finished her upper secondary education experience with an overall 3.88 grade point average. Besides being a standout student, Ajoste was highly involved in a number of school and community activities. She was active in the student senate where she helped generate financial assets for her graduating class. She also was a member of the American Red Cross Club on campus where she assisted in organizing events and participated in various fund raising endeavors. Additionally, Ajoste held membership in the California Scholarship Federation which generated capital that supported scholarships for seniors. Finally, she was energetic in both the PACE Program and the Invisible Children Club. The former program helped raise money for the school’s accelerated academy while the latter helped spread awareness of LRA (Ugandan Lord’s Resistance Army) atrocities and child trafficking in Africa. Because of her deep-seated desire to help people, Ajoste’s lifelong aspiration is to become a nurse. “From a very young age, I’ve always known what I wanted to be when I grow up: a nurse,” she said in her scholarship application package. “Nursing is the ideal career path for me because it is a field I have always been passionate about, a reliable source of income and my dream job. ” Once she becomes a nurse, Ajoste’s desire is to work in locations where underserved populations reside. “I grew up in a working class area,” she said. “I have seen firsthand what happens to people who are unable to receive the proper care they need and are entitled to. People in these cases or similar low-income areas could benefit from basic health and disease education. I would like to take full advantage of my education and use it to provide this necessary service to my community and those like it.” Ajoste has been accepted for admission to the University of California Irvine, California State University Long Beach and San Diego State University. According to her application package, she has decided to earn her degree by completing the nursing program at California State University Long Beach. Daniel Mulcahy Daniel Mulcahy is 2012 graduate of Orange Park High School in Orange Park, Fla. He is the son of Great Lakes Recertified Bosun William Mulcahy (and mother, Maria, a chef). Born in Michigan, Mulcahy ranked 18th in his high school class of 404 students. He posted an overall 4.192 grade point average and was very involved in student activities including his school’s drama club and PrePharmacy Society. He spent many after-school hours assisting in fund raisers to support the Relay for Life Movement and fostering awareness for the same. Mulcahy currently is a student at the University of Central Florida where he has accumulated 30 credits toward his degree. He is majoring in health sciences with a minor in Biology. “My post-undergraduate school goals are to attend pharmacy school,” said Mulcahy, who is a brother in Delta Epsilon Mu, the nation’s lone coed professional prehealth fraternity. “I have plans to join the executive board (of Delta Epsilon Mu) … with hope to represent my fraternity by becoming its president one day,” he said. “Throughout the years, my parents have supported my education and other endeavors,” he added. “My father has dedicated his life to providing me everything I need including a superior education. I hope that one day I am able to give back to my parents everything they’ve provided me.” Maja Sawicka Maja Sawicka is the daughter of inland GVA Jacek Sawicki (and mother Mariola, a physical therapist). Born in New Bedford, Mass., Sawicka is a 2011 graduate of Clifton Park, N.Y.’s Shenendehowa High School. Following high school, she enrolled in a six-year program at Albany College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences in Albany, N.Y. She has completed three semesters of work and earned 56 credits. Ultimately, she hopes to secure her Doctor of Pharmacy degree. “I decided to pursue a Doctor of Pharmacy degree when I was a junior in high school,” Sawicka said in her scholarship application package. During the same period, Sawicka said her grandmother was battling for her life against cancer – a fight which she eventually lost. “The disease weakened my grandmother, but I also noticed that her medications seemed to be doing more harm than good. “I didn’t understand why this was happening,” she continued. “After all, how could I? I had never exchanged more than a few words with my own pharmacist. What could I know about medications?” It was at that point that Sawicka began searching for her own answers. Not long thereafter, doors began to open for her. She was accepted as an early assurance student at the institution she currently attends and she was well on her way to not only realizing her ambition, but also positioned to aggressively pursue plausible explanations if not answers to the questions that had haunted her since her grandmother’s demise. At the time she submitted her application package for the SHBP scholarship, she had already began to make major strides toward achieving her goal. “At the beginning of this academic year, I became a resident assistant,” she said. “My job (resident assistant) has allowed me to organize and provide programs for my fellow students. It also has provided me with a unique leadership position among my peers. “My school has also allowed me to mentor local underprivileged kids from a nearby inner city school,” Sawicka continued. “Helping these young scholars has been the most rewarding experience of my lifetime. It has showed me that helping others is what I really long to do.” Following graduation, she looks forward to joining Doctors Without Borders. “This organization would allow me to bring medical aid and assistance to impoverished or conflictstricken areas,” she concluded. Seafarers LOG 7 6/25/2013 4:31:59 PM �CONGRATULATIONS, GRADUATE – At the May membership meeting, upgrader Robert Sale (right) received his high school diploma, which he earned through the longstanding program at the union-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education. The engine-department Seafarer is pictured celebrating the achievement with SIU President Michael Sacco. COMPLETING NEW STCW COURSE – A group of apprentices last month became the first students to finish one of the school’s newly approved courses leading to the able seafarer-deck endorsement. Two of the trainees are pictured here. Certain classes (including ratings forming part of a navigational watch or RFPNW, where these photos were shot) have been modified because of the most recent amendments to the STCW convention. The Coast Guard’s National Maritime Center approved the curriculums earlier this year, as reported in detail in the June LOG and on the SIU website. Pics and a Poem from Piney Point UNION BOOKS PRESENTED – Port Agent Pat Vandegrift (right in each photo) presented books to members last fall and winter. Seafarers Walter Wise and George Miller received A-seniority books, while Rolando Pangan and Enoch Winrod picked up their B-books and George Box received a full book. Rolando Pangan, Pat Vandegrift George Miller, Pat Vandegrift Walter Wise, Pat Vandegrift Log-A-Rhythm On a Crest By William C. Russell, Apprentice Such are the sea-raised, jagged men donning burdens of the land, that they stride by the ocean’s call to leave the lash of impatient sands. There again the shuffling squids who look up to see no sun but think only deeper in their sync to the spin of the great mirrored ball. George Box, Pat Vandegrift Enoch Winrod, Pat Vandegrift There return the tipped-cap sailors who free their eagles from tight-strapped leashes, watching the gulls floss their feathers and the worries that scatter upon the wake. Some imagine themselves chaste by demons, who play back love and twist them sick, till new romance appears... in the pipe, the twine, the leeward skip. Mumbled prayers for the strakes and themselves in a system of duty and slim bribes, manners worn as occasional costumes when the captain’s cane stamps his three-legged waltz. He steadies his lean with shared breaths – in for his wife and out for the sea, his secret bride at Triton Light humming in the lap of still-born currents. When the land brings him noble grief, from inner corners comes a salty swell, but understand that a sailor’s tear is naught but the sea herself. 8 Seafarers LOG 15047_JULY2K13LOG.indd 8 HONORED FOR PATRIOTISM – The SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center (PHC) recently was recognized by the National Society of the Sons of the American Revolution (NSSAR) (Thomas Stone Chapter) for “exemplary patriotism in the display of the Flag of the United States of America.” Pictured from left to right in the front row are PHC Trainee Commandant Ray Talley, Thomas Stone Chapter VP Joe Gardner, Chapter President David Langford, PHC VP Don Nolan and PHC Manpower Director Bart Rogers. The school received a certificate at its Piney Point, Md., campus. July 2013 6/25/2013 4:32:04 PM �Jones Act Opponents Trumped By Facts Things aren’t looking good for those hoping to undo the Jones Act. Their well-funded, coordinated attacks of the Jones Act are coinciding with a set of developments that are debunking their dubious claims and reminding the country why the law is so badly needed in the first place. The voices of prominent supporters of the Jones Act and U.S. Merchant Marine are growing louder in the face of criticism, while the recent release of government reports and international situations continue to illustrate how misguided Jones Act opponents are in their attacks. For nearly 100 years the Jones Act has been a staple of the maritime industry. It mandates that only vessels built, crewed and owned by Americans can ship cargo between U.S. ports; it has been embraced by politicians on both sides of the aisle. Aside from accounting for more than 500,000 American jobs and more than $100 billion in annual economic input, the Jones Act also serves as a vital tool for national security and defense. Thanks to the Jones Act, foreign-flagged vessels don’t sail on America’s inland waterways or from one U.S. port to another. The law also helps ensure the military has a well-trained collection of U.S. civilian mariners to call on in times of national need and crisis. Those merchant mariners have answered that call many times before and, as long as the Jones Act and other vital maritime programs remain in effect, will be able to answer the call in the future. Despite these benefits, the Jones Act has endured criticism from a small, well-funded movement aimed at getting rid the law and the American jobs that come with it. Their efforts, however, have been hindered by hard truths and the Jones Act’s proven effectiveness. Those truths were highlighted during a recent hearing by the House Subcommittee on Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation. During that hearing prominent committee members of both parties defended the Jones Act and criticized anti-Jones Act forces. “The Jones Act continues to come under attack by critics, despite the fact that Jones Act trades constitute a What is the Jones Act? Also known as the Merchant Marine Act of 1920, the Jones Act stipulates that vessels transporting cargo between American ports are U.S.-built, U.S.-flagged, U.S.-owned and U.S.-crewed. It also restricts any foreign-flagged ships from navigating U.S. inland waterways. Some Benefits of the Jones Act n Helps sustain 500,000 good-paying American jobs n Generates more than $100 billion in annual economic input for the country n Helps maintain a well-trained, reliable pool of U.S. Merchant Mariners available to serve the country in times of need n Potentially dangerous foreign-flagged ships are prevented from navigating United States waterways substantial component of U.S. shipyard activity, which as everyone here knows, is a necessity to maintain our national defense capability,” said Rep. John Garamendi (D-Calif.), who serves as ranking member on the subcommittee. An editorial by Tony Munoz published in Maritime Executive touched on the situation and illustrated how the country’s security needs outweigh the desire of Jones Act opponents to allow foreign-flag vessels into America’s ports and waterways. “As the Korean Peninsula continues to become a tinderbox and China and Russia spend billions of dollars building their military capability, providing open-access U.S. coastlines and inland waterways is not a good idea,” Munoz wrote. “[Jones Act opponents] would have us believe that foreign shipping companies are as patriotic as American companies.” With Seafarers Aboard Overseas Tampa This photo aboard OSG’s Overseas Tampa was taken earlier this year in Hawaii. Pictured aboard the tanker are (from left) GUDE Rezk Mohamed, GUDE Peter Gonda, SA Mohamed Omar and OS Carlos Bonnilla. In a recent report on the Jones Act, the nonpartisan Government Accountability Office (GAO) stated the law was essential to employing the American workers and crews who would come to the aid of the country in times of need. “A decline in the number of U.S.-flag vessels would result in the loss of jobs that employ skilled mariners needed to crew the U.S. military reserve and other deep-sea vessels in times of emergency,” the report read. “According to DOD (Department of Defense) officials, to the extent that Jones Act markets are unable to sustain a viable reserve fleet, DOD would have to incur substantial additional costs to maintain and recapitalize a reserve fleet of its own.” In a recent letter to the House Subcommittee on Seapower and Projection Forces, the SIU-affiliated American Maritime Partnership (AMP) cited that GAO study and reminded the committee members of the Jones Act’s importance to national security. “As you know, DOD and the U.S. Navy rely on commercial mariners, including many from the U.S. domestic fleet for a variety of critical national security roles,” AMP wrote. “DOD has previously estimated that replacing the commercial maritime industry with military vessels would cost billions of dollars.” Aside from reaffirming the Jones Act’s importance to national security, the GAO study also debunked allegations that the Jones Act is costly and inconvenient. The study, which analyzed the law’s impact on the American island of Puerto Rico, found that the Jones Act provided top-notch service while prices actually went down. “The [Jones Act] has helped to ensure reliable, regular service between the United States and Puerto Rico – service that is important to the Puerto Rican economy,” the report read. In a statement following the report’s release, AMP said the findings clearly dispelled a series of falsehoods perpetrated by Jones Act critics. “GAO disproved charges that the Jones Act raises prices for consumers in Puerto Rico,” AMP said. “GAO’s report confirmed that previous estimates of the co-called ‘cost’ of the Jones Act are not verifiable and cannot be proven.” High School ROTC Cadet Receives SIU Honor Honolulu SIU Port Agent Hazel Galbiso (left) presents Naval Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps (NJROTC) Cadet Mark Bardon with the Seafarers International Union’s Good Shipmate Award during the NJROTC’s annual award ceremony at James Campbell High School in Hawaii. Longtime Seafarer, Army Vet Publishes Poetry SA Shawn Canon is a published poet. The longtime Seafarer has poems appearing in “Bellwether Messages,” the 2013 edition of the Savant Poetry Anthology. He has also been published in previous editions. Canon has been with the SIU since the early 1980s. He previously served in the Army during the Vietnam War. Included here are some examples of his work. SA Shawn Canon’s poetry will appear in “Bellwether Messages,” the 2013 edition of Savant Poetry Anthology. July 2013 15047_JULY2K13LOG_X.indd 9 An Incidental Reverie Aggregated amongst volumes of technical lanes Segregates my side of the fence with Big Brother. If by some enchanting jest of Merlin’s legerdemain I would transmute every manuscriptual bother Into realms of melodious gleams… Namely Country, Blues, Jazz and Classics (the mother). Ge’me Some Recovery “What you get?” says the alcoholic addict Acting like a macbook ipad robot. Cautiously I look and walk further, An onerous homeless comes up to the strip His push cart house seems somewhat lost. So I ponder places I have lived before By antiquated rustic dwelling places Along in vogue rainbow city lights From cozy rivers by the beach Up winding misty mountain tops Then finally reaching ‘Recovery’ day by day. Yes, I’m searching now for something Unquestionably true and surely genuine In picnic brunches, long walks, beach trips and mini hikes And I say this clearly: “Could this be you?” Seafarers LOG 9 6/26/2013 9:45:36 AM �At Sea And... VP MEETS MEMBERS ON WEST COAST – SIU Vice President Contracts George Tricker recently met with Seafarers at the Wilmington, Calif., hall and aboard vessels including the Crowley-operated Cape Isabel. He also conferred with personnel at a Seafarers-contracted health clinic in Long Beach, Calif., as part of the recent expansion. Pictured aboard the Cape Isabel (photo at immediate right, from left) are GVA Jovita Carino, GVA John Yi, Tricker, Chief Engineer (SIU Hawsepiper) John Gomard, and QMED Stanley Golden. Among those pictured with the SIU official outside the union hall (top center) are Chief Cook Jimmy Williams, QEE Dimarko Shoulders, QMED Clinton Cephas and AB Dannal Williams. With Tricker at the hall in photo above is Mate Tom Crawley. The photo at the far right was taken at the health clinic. ABOARD ATB VISION – Patrolman Nick Marrone II submitted these photos from an early May servicing of the Crowley ATB Vision in Martinez, Calif. Among the members pictured are Steward Utility Bradley Palmer, AB Cory Gardner, Master Robert Albe, Duty Engineer Edison Lalin and Chief Engineer Jimmy Lipscomb. Among other subjects, Marrone and the members discussed the new health clinic system, which several mariners stated would be beneficial to them. A-BOOK IN NORFOLK – AB Dinh Thong (left) picks up his A-seniority book from Port Agent Georg Kenny at the SIU hall in Norfolk, Va. Thong most recently sailed aboard a Maersk Line, Limited vessel. 10 Seafarers LOG 15047_JULY2K13LOG.indd 10 HORIZON PRODUCER ADDS STOP – Horizon Lines in late May announced that the SIU-crewed Horizon Producer, which carries containerized cargo between Houston and San Juan, P.R., on a 14-day roundtrip schedule, will begin stopping at Jacksonville, Fla., en route to San Juan. July 2013 6/25/2013 4:32:12 PM �... Ashore With The SIU ABOARD EVERGREEN STATE – Bosun Greg Jenkins took these photos of fellow Seafarers aboard Crowley’s Evergreen State. The crew recently presented a life ring (made by the bosun) to the seamen’s club in Diego Garcia. Pictured in the group photo above are GVA Santos Miguel, Chief Steward Donna Rye, AB John McElhaney, AB Emilio Gonzalez, AB Isaac Garrido, Pumpman Jake Diefenbach, AB Manny Wilson and SA Mohamed Nagi. Left to right in the photo below are AB Ahmed Mohammed Galeb, AB Nestor Rapusas and AB Luvertis Alford. HAPPY RETIREMENT – Seafarers gathered at the hall in Wilmington, Calif., May 30 to offer happy retirement wishes to longtime dispatcher Nick Rios (center). He is flanked by Port Agent Jeff Turkus (right) and Patrolman Abdul Al Omari. ON WATCH IN BALTIMORE – AB Hussen Mohamed is pictured in Baltimore aboard the Watermanoperated Green Bay. A-BOOK IN WILMINGTON – QMED Reynaldo Abella (left) displays his newly acquired A-seniority book with Patrolman Abdul Al Omari at the hall in Wilmington, Calif. Abella recently sailed on the USNS Bowditch, operated by 3PSC for Maersk. LABOR RALLY IN PHILLY – Seafarers and members of the SIU-affiliated United Industrial Workers joined in a rally for workers’ rights May 22 in Philadelphia. Pictured from left to right in photo at the immediate right are SIU members Elliott Kolner, Ryan Papa, and Isaac Amoah. In the photo above are (from left) UIW members Kim Lisacek, Kassy Schmidt, Agnes Alisio and Joyce Dudley. A-BOOK IN OAKLAND – AB Rolando Dinong (right in photo at right) receives his A-seniority book from Patrolman Nick Marrone II at the union hall in Oakland, Calif. Dinong regularly sails aboard the Pride of America, the only deep-sea U.S.-flag cruise ship. July 2013 15047_JULY2K13LOG.indd 11 Seafarers LOG 11 6/25/2013 4:32:17 PM �Chief Steward Robert Bostick, ACU Isabel Sabio AB Michael Dooley SIU members and officers gather for a group photo aboard the vessel. SIU Members Deliver for Key U.S. Program Ocean Giant Carries Vital Cargoes for Operation Deep Freeze SIU members have gone a long way, for a long time, to support the National Science Foundation’s U.S. Antarctic Program. Most recently, Seafarers from the Ocean Giant (operated by Crowley for Intermarine) and the Maersk Peary (operated by Maersk Line, Limited) helped deliver important cargoes in this year’s Operation Deep Freeze, a yearly resupply mission to McMurdo Station in Antarctica. The Ocean Giant carried approximately seven million pounds of supplies ranging from food to vehicles to electronic gear, while the Maersk Peary delivered more than six million gallons of gasoline, jet fuel and diesel fuel. The tradition of civilian mariners supporting the resupply mission dates to 1955, and SIU crews have participated in a large number of those voyages. Typically, the route includes passage through a 15-mile ice channel that’s more than 13 feet thick in some places. This year, according to the U.S. Military Sealift Command (MSC), civilian mariners helped deliver “100 percent of the fuel and about 80 percent of the supplies that researchers and support personnel in Antarctica need to survive and work over the course of a year.” As previously reported, the ships also returned with cargo from the station, including “ice core samples carried back to the United States in sub-zero freezer containers, as well as trash and recyclable materials for disposal and equipment no longer required on station.” Because of the weather in Antarctica, Deep Freeze takes place from January to March (summer in that part of the world). It’s a “very critical mission for the people who live and work in Antarctica,” said Capt. Sylvester Moore, commander AB Matt Baptist AB German Nunez, AB Henry Oculan MSC Pacific. “Without this resupply mission, all operations in Antarctica would end, and the scientific community would lose the opportunity to conduct research and study not only the continent of Antarctica, but its impact on our global climate.” Editor’s note: For more coverage of Operation Deep Freeze, see the April issue of the Seafarers LOG and the online photo galleries both at seafarers.org and on our Facebook page. The ship docks at McMurdo Station to deliver vital cargo. Seafarers have supported the U.S. Antarctic Program for decades. 12 Seafarers LOG 15047_SeafarersLog_cxs2_lores 15047_JULY2K13LOG.indd 12 12-13 The Ocean Giant early in the year sailed from Port Hueneme, Calif., carrying nearly seven million pounds of supplies such as frozen and dry food stores, building supplies, vehicles and electronic equipment. July 2013 6/25/2013 4:32:19 PM July 2013 15047_JULY2K13LOG.indd 13 Seafarers LOG 13 6/27/13 8:35 PM 6/25/2013 4:32:27 PM �Navy vehicles and equipment are loaded aboard the prepositioning ship USNS 2nd Lt. John P. Bobo. The HSV 2 Swift gets underway from Key West, Fla., to conduct a series of at sea capabilities tests for an unmanned blimp and another unmanned aerial vehicle. Fourth Arm of Defense Steps Up for Exercises Seafarers continue to build on their longstanding reputation for delivering the goods for America’s Armed Forces. Earlier this year, SIU members aboard four Military Sealift Command (MSC) owned vessels—the USNS Dahl, HSV 2 Swift, USNS 2nd Lt. John P. Bobo, and USNS Pililaau—participated in three-high profile U.S. Navy exercises. African Lion 13 The SIU crew aboard the USNS Dahl, along with members of MSC Europe and Africa’s Navy Reserve Expeditionary Port Unit 107, participated in Exercise African Lion 13. Conducted in Agadir, Morocco, during early April, the exercise was designed to improve the interoperability and mutual understanding of each nation’s tactics, techniques and procedures. The Dahl delivered more than 250 short tons of equipment for this exercise. Cargo included everything from seven-ton trucks, armored Humvees and howitzers to Meals, Ready to Eat. A large, medium-speed, roll-on/roll-off ship, the Dahl is operated for MSC by Ocean Ships, Inc. Operation Martillo Seafarers aboard the HSV 2 Swift on May 1 departed Key West, Fla., to participate in Operation Martillio, a multi-national, interagency and joint military operation to combat aerial and maritime drug trafficking off Central America’s coasts. Prior to getting underway for the exercise, the Swift completed the at-sea testing of an unmanned blimp and another unmanned aerial vehicle. Because of their unique capabilities as demonstrated during the tests, both aircraft could serve as future platforms to thwart trafficking operations. The Swift is operated for MSC by unioncontracted Sealift, Inc. Line, Limited-operated 2nd Lt. John P. Bobo and AMSEA-operated USNS Pililaau took part in the Combined Joint Logistics Over the Shore (CJLOTS) exercise. A segment of Foal Eagle 2013, CJLOTS took place off the shore of Pohang, Republic of South Korea (ROK) and involved 2,200 Navy, Marine Corps, Army and Coast Guard personnel and partners from the ROK military, who trained to deliver and redeploy military cargo from ships anchored two miles off Pohang’s Dogu beach. The Bobo and Pililaau served as supporting platforms for cargohandling Battalion One Sailors and Marines from Okinawa-based III Marine Expedition- ary Force who safely loaded and backloaded the vessels. Both vessels are part of MSC’s prepositioning fleet. They are based principally in Guam and Saipan. These ships deliver military cargo ashore even if a port is damaged, destroyed or doesn’t exist at all. MSC operates more than 100 noncombatant, U.S. merchant mariner-crewed ships (the vast majority manned by Seafarers) that replenish U.S. Navy ships, conduct specialized missions, strategically preposition combat cargo at sea around the world, and move military cargo and supplies used by deployed U.S. forces and coalition partners. CJLOTS Exercise On May 8, SIU crews from the Maersk The RO/RO USNS Pililaau arrives in Pohang, South Korea, carrying equipment in support of the Combined Joint Logistics Over the Shore exercise. The USNS Dahl is anchored in Agadir, Morocco, during Exercise African Lion 13. Summary Annual Report for SIU Pacific District Seafarers Medical Center Fund This is a summary of the annual report of the SIU Pacific District Seafarers Medical Center Fund, EIN 94-2430964 for the year ended June 30, 2012. The annual report has been filed with the Department of Labor, as required under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA). Benefits under the plan are provided by the SIU Pacific District Seafarers Medical Center Fund, a trust fund. Basic Financial Statement The value of plan assets, after subtracting liabilities of the plan, was $(89,348) as of June 30, 2012, compared to $78,132 as of July 1, 2011. During the plan year, the plan experienced a decrease in its net assets of $11,216. During the plan year, the plan had total income of $617,282, including employer contributions of $613,413, earnings from investments of $133 and other income of $3,736. Plan expenses were $628,498. These expenses included $161,796 in administrative expenses and $466,702 in benefits paid to participants and beneficiaries. Your Rights to Additional Information You have the right to receive a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, on request. The items listed below are included in that report: n An accountant’s report; n Financial information and information on 14 Seafarers LOG 15047_JULY2K13LOG.indd 14 payments to service providers; and n Assets held for investment. To obtain a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, write or call the office of SIU Pacific District Seafarers Medical Center Fund, 730 Harrison St., Suite 400, San Francisco, CA 94107, (415) 392-3611. The charge to cover copying costs will be $2.00 for the full annual report or $.25 per page for any part thereof. You also have the right to receive from the plan administrator, on request and at no charge, a statement of the assets and liabilities of the plan and accompanying notes, or a statement of income and expenses of the plan and accompanying notes, or both. If you request a copy of the full annual report from the plan administrator, these two statements and accompanying notes will be included as part of that report. The charge to cover copying costs given above does not include a charge for the copying of these portions of the report because these portions are furnished without charge. You also have the legally protected right to examine the annual report at the main office of the plan at 730 Harrison Street, Suite 400, San Francisco, CA 94107, and at the U.S. Department of Labor in Washington, DC, or to obtain a copy from the U.S. Department of Labor upon payment of copying costs. Requests to the Department should be addressed to: Public Disclosure Room, N-1513, Employee Benefits Security Administration, U.S. Department of Labor, 200 Constitution Avenue, N.W., Washington, DC 20210. Summary Annual Report for SIU Pacific District Supplemental Benefits Fund, Inc. This is a summary of the annual report of the SIU Pacific District Supplemental Benefits Fund, Inc., EIN 94-1431246, for the year ended July 31, 2012. The annual report has been filed with the Employee Benefits Security Administration, as required under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA). Benefits under the Plan are provided by the SIU Pacific District Supplemental Benefits Fund, Inc., a Trust Fund. Basic Financial Statement The value of plan assets, after subtracting liabilities of the plan, was $299,616 as of July 31, 2012, compared to $270,015 as of August 1, 2011. During the plan year, the plan experienced a decrease in its net assets of $29,601. This decrease includes unrealized appreciation or depreciation in the value of plan assets; that is, the difference between the value of the plan’s assets at the end of the year and the value of the assets at the beginning of the year or the cost of assets acquired during the year. During the plan year, the plan had total income of $9,494,912, which included employer contributions of $9,493,441, realized losses of $5,648 from the sale of assets, and earnings from investments of $7,119. Plan expenses were $9,524,513. These expenses included $411,062 in administrative expenses and $9,113,451 in benefits paid to participants. Your Rights to Additional Information You have the right to receive a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, on request. The items listed below are included in that report: n An accountant’s report; n Financial information and information on payments to service providers; n Assets held for investment; and n Transactions in excess of 5 percent of plan assets. To obtain a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, write or call the office of SIU Pacific District Supplemental Benefits Fund, Inc., at 730 Harrison Street, Suite 400, San Francisco, CA 94107, telephone number (415) 764-4990. The charge to cover copying costs will be $4.00 for the full annual report or $0.25 per page for any part thereof. You also have the right to receive from the plan administrator, on request and at no charge, a statement of the assets and liabilities of the plan and accompanying notes, or a statement of income and expenses of the plan and accompanying notes, or both. If you request a copy of the full annual report from the plan administrator, these two statements and accompanying notes will be included as part of that report. The charge to cover copying costs given above does not include a charge for the copying of these portions of the report because these portions are furnished without charge. You also have the legally protected right to examine the annual report at the main office of the plan at 730 Harrison Street, Suite 400, San Francisco, CA 94107, and at the U.S. Department of Labor in Washington, DC, or to obtain a copy from the U.S. Department of Labor upon payment of copying costs. Requests to the Department should be addressed to Public Disclosure Room, Room N1513, Employee Benefits Security Administration, U.S. Department of Labor, 200 Constitution Avenue, N.W., Washington, DC 20210. July 2013 6/25/2013 4:32:30 PM �3 On the Job Aboard the SBX-1 Dispatchers’ Report for Deep Sea May 16, 2013 - June 15, 2013 Total Registered AB Victor Mariano runs a forklift aboard the TOTE-operated SBX-1 in Hawaii. The SBX-1 features an advanced X-Band radar mounted aboard an oceangoing, semi-submersible platform. August & September 2013 Membership Meetings Piney Point.................Monday: August 5, *Tuesday: September 3 Algonac.........................Friday: August 9, September 6 Baltimore........................Thursday: August 8, September 5 Guam.........................Thursday: August 22, September 19 Honolulu..........................Friday: August 16, September 13 Houston............................Monday: August 12, September 9 Jacksonville.....................Thursday: August 8, September 5 Joliet............................Thursday: August 15, September 12 Mobile..........................Wednesday: August 14, September 11 New Orleans........................Tuesday: August 13, September 10 New York.......................Tuesday: August 6, September 3 Norfolk...........................Thursday: August 8, September 5 Oakland.............................Thursday: August 15, September 12 Philadelphia........................Wednesday: August 7, September 4 Port Everglades..................Thursday: August 15, September 12 San Juan..................................Thursday: August 8, September 5 St. Louis.....................................Friday: August 16, September 13 Tacoma..................................Friday: August 23, September 20 Wilmington............................Monday: August 19, September 16 * Piney Point change created by Labor Day holiday Each port’s meeting starts at 10:30 a.m. Attention SEAFARERS Keep Us On Your Radar Screen Contribute to the Seafarers Political Activity Donation SPAD July 2013 15047_JULY2K13LOG.indd 15 All Groups B C Total Shipped A All Groups B C Trip Reliefs Registered on Beach A All Groups B Port A C Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu 1 Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS Deck Department 15 4 2 8 4 1 3 15 7 2 2 1 1 2 1 0 0 2 1 2 7 2 2 7 2 0 1 9 6 3 14 6 4 11 11 2 9 28 17 7 3 2 0 3 1 0 0 3 2 0 3 2 0 3 4 1 3 27 6 0 58 12 6 50 9 2 29 92 19 6 32 17 6 23 19 4 15 60 33 6 6 5 0 3 3 0 1 3 3 1 6 2 3 13 6 2 8 10 1 4 16 6 1 11 1 0 8 22 7 3 55 21 5 34 17 1 13 80 25 7 20 17 7 13 16 4 6 31 29 11 26 5 4 20 3 0 8 36 15 3 8 5 1 1 2 0 0 9 4 3 1 2 0 0 1 0 0 4 3 0 11 5 1 3 7 3 5 13 5 2 37 10 5 32 11 1 19 74 19 8 2 3 0 2 0 1 0 5 4 0 42 18 7 20 12 1 18 80 38 7 374 145 55 259 130 23 146 603 244 75 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS Engine Department 2 5 4 1 8 1 2 2 1 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 4 0 3 3 1 2 5 8 3 6 6 1 5 7 1 7 13 8 3 3 0 0 0 1 0 0 4 0 0 8 0 2 3 5 1 1 16 10 3 15 6 1 8 5 0 6 34 16 2 25 12 2 14 16 1 11 44 31 5 2 5 0 2 0 0 0 2 6 0 7 3 1 3 1 1 1 9 5 0 6 1 0 1 2 0 2 7 0 0 17 9 4 11 7 0 5 31 15 5 12 9 2 10 6 2 1 20 16 2 6 6 2 5 7 3 3 16 3 3 2 1 0 4 2 0 2 1 3 3 1 2 0 0 1 0 0 4 5 0 4 5 1 0 6 0 4 4 7 1 19 10 0 17 8 1 10 28 11 1 4 0 1 0 0 1 0 6 3 1 16 11 2 8 10 0 6 20 27 4 157 95 23 95 95 13 63 266 175 38 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu 1 Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS Steward Department 3 1 0 0 1 0 0 3 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 2 0 1 2 0 0 4 3 0 13 1 2 8 0 3 3 22 3 3 0 1 0 0 1 0 0 1 1 0 3 2 1 8 3 1 5 24 4 0 12 6 0 16 3 0 10 33 7 1 24 5 1 15 3 1 6 31 10 1 0 1 1 0 1 0 0 0 3 1 5 1 0 0 1 0 0 8 2 1 6 0 2 4 3 0 5 9 0 4 23 8 1 13 5 0 3 27 14 1 16 8 3 12 6 1 3 21 12 3 23 3 1 10 2 2 6 31 7 2 4 0 1 1 0 0 0 5 0 1 6 2 0 2 2 0 2 7 2 0 4 4 0 0 3 1 2 6 3 0 17 3 1 13 3 0 7 32 5 1 1 1 1 0 0 1 1 3 2 0 28 4 3 17 3 1 11 48 7 4 199 53 18 120 42 11 64 315 87 23 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS Entry Department 5 11 14 1 7 7 5 5 17 19 0 1 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 3 1 0 0 0 0 1 3 4 0 1 2 0 3 0 2 1 9 6 0 2 0 0 1 0 0 0 2 0 3 4 12 1 7 8 0 2 10 18 4 9 4 3 7 3 2 7 18 13 2 11 14 2 10 6 2 2 16 19 0 0 3 0 0 1 0 0 0 4 1 0 1 1 0 0 0 2 2 3 0 2 4 2 3 0 2 2 2 6 8 19 9 0 15 12 3 11 38 24 1 11 35 1 14 11 6 0 24 43 4 8 5 1 6 1 0 6 24 13 0 1 1 0 0 1 0 1 1 1 0 0 24 0 1 5 4 0 1 21 3 0 0 0 0 0 0 4 0 1 11 13 4 4 7 3 5 9 18 7 0 1 0 0 1 0 0 0 1 0 9 15 17 3 10 6 4 14 45 31 51 112 150 19 93 64 35 67 231 233 GRAND TOTAL: 781 405 246 493 360 111 308 1,251 737 369 Seafarers LOG 15 6/25/2013 4:32:32 PM �Inquiring Seafarer Seafarers International Union Directory Michael Sacco, President Augustin Tellez, Executive Vice President David Heindel, Secretary-Treasurer George Tricker, Vice President Contracts Tom Orzechowski, Vice President Lakes and Inland Waters Dean Corgey, Vice President Gulf Coast Nicholas J. Marrone, Vice President West Coast Joseph T. Soresi, Vice President Atlantic Coast Kermett Mangram, Vice President Government Services Editor’s note: This month’s question was answered by individuals who are enrolled in upgrading courses at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. Question: Do you think it’s important for Seafarers to upgrade their skills? HEADQUARTERS 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746 (301) 899-0675 ALGONAC 520 St. Clair River Dr., Algonac, MI 48001 (810) 794-4988 ANCHORAGE 721 Sesame St., #1C, Anchorage, AK 99503 (907) 561-4988 BALTIMORE 2315 Essex St., Baltimore, MD 21224 (410) 327-4900 GUAM P.O. Box 3328, Hagatna, Guam 96932 Cliffline Office Ctr. Bldg., Suite 103B 422 West O’Brien Dr., Hagatna, Guam 96910 (671) 477-1350 HONOLULU 606 Kalihi St., Honolulu, HI 96819 (808) 845-5222 HOUSTON 1221 Pierce St., Houston, TX 77002 (713) 659-5152 JACKSONVILLE 5100 Belfort Rd., Jacksonville, FL 32256 (904) 281-2622 JOLIET 10 East Clinton St., Joliet, IL 60432 (815) 723-8002 MOBILE 1640 Dauphin Island Pkwy, Mobile, AL 36605 (251) 478-0916 Gerald Scott FOWT Alfredo Mendoza Oiler I have upgraded here at Piney Point about six times. The purpose of having a maritime career is to go up the ladder when you’re aboard a ship … you don’t want to do the same job all of the time. I see a lot people who do that, though … one person stayed a wiper for 20 years. To me upgrading is very important because you improve yours skills and make more money. I recommend that everybody who goes through the unlicensed apprentice program here to return and upgrade. I sail out of the port of Mobile and am here upgrading to junior engineer. I’ve been sailing now for about two and one-half years and have upgraded several times before. Upgrading to me is a no-brainer because in doing so you not only help yourself and your situation but also the union. There is a significant difference between the money you can make if you continue to upgrade as opposed to not doing it. I’d recommend that all of our brothers and sisters, especially those who are just starting out, upgrade as early and as often as possible. Clifford Simril Chief Cook I sail out of Wilmington and am here upgrading in the steward department. I have been here on two previous occasions to upgrade. Upgrading is very important if you want to keep your skills current and ensure that you will have a good career. The other thing is that you make good money. In my opinion, people who don’t upgrade really are kidding themselves. They are selling themselves short because they don’t take full advantage of the opportunities to advance their careers. Tina Knox Recertified Steward I’ve been sailing for about 14 years now and I’m here upgrading in the government vessels course. I’m here quite frequently because to do otherwise would be detrimental to my career. Although I’m a recertified steward, I want to do Serve Safe and to do that, you have to retest every five years. So basically, I upgrade to keep all of my certifications current. I suggest that everyone who has an opportunity to upgrade to do so, because this is how you advance in your career. The more you advance, the greater you enhance your chances to make more money. Charles Hill Recertified Bosun I’ve been sailing for about 15 years and I’m here upgrading in the tanker assistant course. I’ve been going to sea aboard containerships for a long time and I did not have this certification. I wanted to get it so that I could hopefully work and stay closer to home. I would recommend the school for anyone … I’ve come here a number of times. They have a great facility and the opportunities are endless, especially for young people who want to get into this industry; it’s a great place to start. Kelly Mayo QMED Pumpman I’ve been sailing since 1978 and am currently homeported here at Piney Point. I just got off of the ship and I’m here today looking into the upgrading classes that may be available. I’ve been here numerous times in the past to upgrade. I think it’s important for everyone to take advantage of the upgrading opportunities that the school offers. Aside from opening the doors to new job opportunities, upgrading your skills places you in a better position to make more money. It can really make a difference in your career. Pic-From-The-Past NEW ORLEANS 3911 Lapalco Blvd., Harvey, LA 70058 (504) 328-7545 NEW YORK 635 Fourth Ave., Brooklyn, NY 11232 (718) 499-6600 Government Services Division: (718) 499-6600 NORFOLK 115 Third St., Norfolk, VA 23510 (757) 622-1892 OAKLAND 1121 7th St., Oakland, CA 94607 (510) 444-2360 PHILADELPHIA 2604 S. 4 St., Philadelphia, PA 19148 (215) 336-3818 PINEY POINT P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674 (301) 994-0010 PORT EVERGLADES 1221 S. Andrews Ave., Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33316 (954) 522-7984 SANTURCE 1057 Fernandez Juncos Ave., Stop 16 Santurce, PR 00907 (787) 721-4033 ST. LOUIS/ALTON 4581 Gravois Ave., St. Louis, MO 63116 (314) 752-6500 TACOMA 3411 South Union Ave., Tacoma, WA 98409 (253) 272-7774 WILMINGTON 510 N. Broad Ave., Wilmington, CA 90744 (310) 549-4000 Pictured aboard the tanker SS Zapata in southern California in the summer of 1976 are (from left) SIU rep Pat Marinelli and Seafarers Leonard Viles, Oswaldo Irizarry, John Young and Louis Vidal. The 711-foot-long vessel reportedly was built at a cost of about $16 million. If anyone has a vintage union-related photograph he or she would like to share with other Seafarers LOG readers, please send it to the Seafarers LOG, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. Photographs will be returned, if so requested. High-resolution digital images may be sent to webmaster@seafarers.org 16 Seafarers LOG 15047_JULY2K13LOG.indd 16 July 2013 6/25/2013 4:32:36 PM �Welcome Ashore Each month, the Seafarers LOG pays tribute to the SIU members who have devoted their working lives to sailing aboard U.S.-flag vessels on the deep seas, inland waterways or Great Lakes. Listed below are brief biographical sketches of those members who recently retired from the union. The brothers and sisters of the SIU thank those members for a job well done and wish them happiness and good health in the days ahead. DEEP SEA STEVEN BUSH Brother Steven Bush, 65, started sailing with the Seafarers in 1979. He was originally employed aboard the Perry. Brother Bush was a deck department member. He upgraded frequently at the SIU-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. Brother Bush’s most recent ship was the Horizon Falcon. He is a resident of Kirkland, Wash. LEON CATLIN Brother Leon Catlin, 67, became an SIU member in 2001 when the NMU merged into the Seafarers International Union. He was employed with Keystone Shipping Services for the duration on his career. Brother Catlin shipped in the steward department. He resides in Mobile, Ala. CARDEL DUNN Brother Cardel Dunn, 56, signed on with the SIU in 1977 while in Piney Point, Md. The Californiaborn mariner initially shipped on the Westward Venture as a member of the engine department. Brother Dunn enhanced his skills often at the Paul Hall Center. He concluded his career aboard the Grand Canyon State. Brother Dunn settled in Elsobrante, Calif. MICHAEL FREEBURN Brother Michael Freeburn, 65, began sailing with the union in 1967. He initially shipped aboard the Reiss Brothers. Brother Freeburn sailed in the deck department. In 1972 and 1981, he attended classes at the union-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. Brother Freeburn’s final ship was the Marketer. He calls Marana, Ariz., home. DAVID LA FRANCE Brother David La France, 65, joined the SIU ranks in 1966. His first ship was the Depauw Victory; his most recent, the Aquarius. Brother La July 2013 15047_JULY2K13LOG_X2.indd 17 France worked in the deck department. On two occasions, he took advantage of educational opportunities available at the Seafarers-affiliated school in Maryland. Brother La France resides in Newville, Pa. NELSON LAZO Brother Nelson Lazo, 66, was born in Chile. He became an SIU member in 1990, initially sailing on the Independence. Brother Lazo worked in the engine department, most recently aboard the Overseas Maremar. He upgraded often at the Piney Point school. Brother Lazo lives in Houston. LARRY PHILLIPS Brother Larry Phillips, 63, donned the SIU colors in 1966. He first sailed aboard the Del Rio. Brother Phillips shipped in the engine department. In 1996 and 2001, he upgraded at the maritime training center in Piney Point, Md. Brother Phillips’ most recent trip was on the Coast Range. He was born in Mobile, Ala., and settled in Rocky Creek, Miss. NORMAN ROGERS Brother Norman Rogers, 65, started shipping with the union in 1996 while in Mobile, Ala. He sailed aboard vessels including the Little Hales and the SBX. Brother Rogers was born in Detroit. He sailed mostly as an MDR. Brother Rogers resides in Bronx, N.Y. CARL SANDS Brother Carl Sands, 65, joined the SIU in 1978 in the port of Houston. The deck department member was born in Tacoma Park, Md. Brother Sands first sailed on the Montpelier Victory. He upgraded frequently at the Piney Point school. Brother Sands last shipped aboard the Commitment. He calls Brooklyn, N.Y., home. ALVIN SOLOMON Brother Alvin Solomon, 65, signed on with the union in 1978. His first voyage was aboard the Santa Magdelena. Brother Solomon was a steward department member. His final trip was on the Philippines. Brother Solomon makes his home in Fairfield, Calif. INLAND RONALD BROWDER Brother Ronald Browder, 62, began his seafaring career in 1977. He primarily worked aboard Marine Contracting & Towing Company vessels. Brother Browder is a native of South Carolina. He sailed in the deck department. Brother Browder lives in Awendaw, S.C. RICHARD DOZIER Brother Richard Dozier, 59, first donned the SIU colors in 1970. His earliest trip was with Michigan Tankers Inc. Brother Dozier was born in Norfolk, Va., and sailed in the deck department. He attended classes often at the Seafarersaffiliated school in Piney Point, Md. Brother Dozier last shipped on an Allied Towing vessel. He calls Portsmouth, Va., home. GLENN HOLDEN Brother Glenn Holden, 56, became a union member in 1976. He was employed with Allied Towing Company for the du- ration on his career. Brother Holden was born in North Carolina. The deck department member enhanced his skills often at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Holden resides in Wilmington, N.C. FRANK INGELLIS Brother Frank Ingellis, 56, signed on with the SIU in 1976 while in Piney Point, Md. He mostly shipped aboard Allied Towing vessels as a member of the engine department. Brother Ingellis enhanced his skills on three occasions at the maritime training center in Piney Point. He lives in Baltimore. CARLOS RIVERA Brother Carlos Rivera, 62, joined the union in 1977. He worked with Crowley of Puerto Rico. Brother Rivera sailed in the engine department and makes his home in Toa Baja, P.R. PAUL WILLS Brother Paul Wills, 62, began sailing with the SIU in 1979. He was originally employed aboard the Overseas Anchorage. Brother Wills worked in the deck department. He upgraded on two occasions at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Wills’ most recent trip was aboard a Crowley Towing of Jacksonville vessel. He resides in his native state, Pennsylvania. NATIONAL MARITIME UNION JESSE CHILES Brother Jesse Chiles, 65, started shipping with the NMU in 1977. He was a deck department member. Brother Chiles most recently sailed on the Victory Texas. Brother Chiles lives in Bronx, N.Y. DEVLIN MILLER Brother Devlin Miller, 55, sailed with the NMU prior to the 2001 merger with the Seafarers International Union. Brother Miller sailed in the deck department. He calls Jacksonville, Fla., home. This Month In SIU History Editor’s note: The following items are reprinted from previous editions of the Seafarers LOG. tion, Congress voted an additional $1 million for providing medical care to seamen, government workers and many other groups. 1950 The SIU has signed agreements with its contracted operators providing that Seafarers aboard contracted ships in the five zones along the Chinese coast will be protected against war risks by terms of riders supplementing the ships’ articles. The riders will be attached to all ships’ articles until agreement is reached with the operators on adequate bonus payments, personal effects allowances and attack bonuses. The agreement on the war bonus payment was made retroactive to the date that the Korean hostilities broke out. Crew members of the affected ship will receive in addition to basic wages and allowances, 100 percent of their base wages while in the five specified areas rendered unsafe, including the waters around Korea. 1964 The new SIU hall in Norfolk was dedicated last week in ceremonies attended by officers of the SIU, members, representatives of the trade union movement and representatives of government. A part of the SIU’s continuing building program, the new Norfolk hall is a direct consequence of the increased deep-sea cargo movements and the parallel rise in membership of the SIU throughout the Hampton Roads-Norfolk area. The new fully air-conditioned building includes an expanded hiring hall, a general meeting hall capable of handling 300 persons, new recreational facilities and accommodations for a snack bar-cafeteria area. 1953 Vigorous action by the SIU has insured that the Public Health Service Hospital at Savannah, Georgia, will be kept open. In the face of the concerted effort of the SIU and its affiliates, the Department of Health, Education and Welfare has canceled its plans to close the hospital. This will ensure that the thousands of patients the hospital serves on the southeastern coast of the U.S. will continue to receive quality medical care. In addi- 1967 In a report to the Atlantic and Gulf membership during the regular July membership meeting at headquarters, SIU President Paul Hall told members that facilities for the training and upgrading of seamen were being expanded. In addition to local training sites in New York and other outports, the SIU has recently purchased a 28acre site at Piney Point, Md., to train young men for entry-level jobs aboard American-flag ships. This will be in addition to upgrading training to enable working seamen to qualify for promotions after specialized training. Seafarers LOG 17 6/26/2013 4:18:07 PM �Final Departures DEEP SEA MICHAEL BORDERS Pensioner Michael Borders, 58, died Jan. 3. Brother Borders started shipping with the union in 1971. He first worked with James River Transport. Brother Borders was born in Virginia and sailed in the deck department. Prior to his retirement in 2008, he sailed on the Performance. Brother Borders called Norfolk, Va., home ALEXANDER BROSSEUK Pensioner Alexander Brosseuk, 92, passed away Oct. 14. Brother Brosseuk began sailing with the union in 1974. He originally worked on the Ft. Hoskins. Brother Brosseuk was a member of the engine department. Before retiring in 1988, he sailed on the OMI Columbia. Brother Brosseuk made his home in Long Beach, Calif. VIRGIL CARROLL Brother Virgil Carroll, 51, died Dec. 7. He became a union member in 1981. Brother Carroll’s first ship was the Long Beach; his last was the USNS Wyman. He sailed in the steward department. Brother Carroll resided in Brooklyn, N.Y. CHARLES CURLEY Brother Charles “Chuck” Curley, 58, passed away Jan. 16. Born in Roanoke Rapids, N.C., he began sailing with the union in 1980. Brother Curley first sailed on the Del Oro. He was a steward department member. Brother Curley’s final ship was the APL Agate. He was a resident of Gaston, N.C. WALDEMAR GAJC Brother Waldemar Gajc, 56, died Nov. 29. He signed on with the SIU in 2003. Brother Gajc’s earliest trip was with Marine Personnel & Provisioning. He was a member of the deck department. Brother Gajc most recently shipped aboard the USNS Stockham. He called Watervliet, N.Y., home. JORGE GARCIA Brother Jorge Garcia, 94, passed away Dec. 12. He donned the SIU colors in 1959 while in the port of New York. Brother Garcia initially sailed with States Steamship Company. He was born in Puerto Rico and shipped in the steward department. Brother Garcia last worked aboard the President Polk. He continued to live in Puerto Rico. 18 Seafarers LOG 15047_JULY2K13LOG.indd 18 FRANCIS GOMEZ Pensioner Francis Gomez, 92, died Dec. 28. Brother Gomez started shipping with the union in 1944. He first worked on the Alcoa Runner. Brother Gomez was a member of the engine department. Prior to his retirement in 1976, he sailed on the Ft. Hoskins. Brother Gomez was born in the West Indies; he made his home in Mobile, Ala. COY HENDRICKS Pensioner Coy Hendricks, 91, passed away Jan. 1. Brother Hendricks was born in Daisy, Ga. He started his SIU career in 1951. Brother Hendricks was a steward department member. He originally shipped on the Southern States. Brother Hendricks’ final ship was the OMI Star. He went on pension in 1993 and was a resident of Brooksville, Fla. ROBERT LAGASSE Brother Robert Lagasse, 89, died Jan. 27. He became an SIU member in 1943. Brother Lagasse sailed in the engine department. Before retiring in 1985, he sailed on the St. Louis. Brother Lagasse was born in Dover, N.H. and lived in Venice, Fla. KARL LEITER Brother Karl Leiter, 54, died Dec. 26. He began sailing with the SIU in 1989 while in Honolulu. Brother Leiter was originally employed aboard the Independence. He was born in Toronto and primarily worked in the engine department, in addition to working as a patrolman. Brother Leiter’s last trip was on the Horizon Reliance. He called Jacksonville, Fla., home. GARY LOWRY Brother Gary Lowry, 56, passed away Dec. 29. He first donned the SIU colors in 1997. Brother Lowry’s first voyage was aboard the USNS Able. He was a member of the deck department. Brother Lowry’s final trip was on the Integrity. He made his home in Virginia Beach, Va. BILLY MITCHELL Pensioner Billy Mitchell, 78, died Dec. 3. Brother Mitchell was born in Texas. He joined the union in 1973, initially sailed aboard the RamBam. The steward department member last sailed on the Wilson. Brother Mitchell started collecting his pension in 1999. He was a resident of Stone Mountain, Ga. STANLEY PARKER Pensioner Stanley Parker, 60, passed away Jan. 26. Brother Parker signed on with the SIU in 1974. His earliest trip was aboard the Overseas Juneau. Brother Parker, a member of the deck department, last sailed on the Oakland. He became a pensioner in 2012. Brother Parker was born in California and made his home in El Cerrito, Calif. BOB RACKLIN Pensioner Bob Racklin, 71, died Dec. 31. Brother Racklin started sailing with the Seafarers in 1970. He originally shipped aboard the Afoundria. The Alabama-born mariner worked in the steward department. Brother Racklin’s most recent vessel was the Maersk Alaska. He began receiving compensation for his retirement in 2004. Brother Racklin settled in San Bruno, Calif. RAMON TORRES Pensioner Ramon Torres, 83, died Jan. 5. Born in Puerto Rico, he began shipping with the union in 1965. Brother Torres first sailed on the Platte. He was an engine department member. Brother Torres’ final ship was the San Juan. He retired in 1995 and continued to live in Puerto Rico. INLAND WILLIAM CARLTON Pensioner William Carlton, 81, passed away Jan. 7. Brother Carlton was born in Atlanta. He started sailing with the SIU in 1972. Brother Carlton first shipped with Virginia Pilot Corporation. He worked in both the steward and deck departments. Brother Carlton last sailed aboard an OSG Ship Management vessel before going on pension in 1994. He called Virginia Beach, Va., home. ELTON MERRITT Pensioner Elton Merritt, 80, passed away Dec. 21. Brother Merritt became an SIU member in 1977. He first shipped with Norfolk Baltimore. Brother Merritt, a member of the engine department, last sailed aboard an Allied Towing vessel. He went on pension in 1994 and resided in Cheriton, Va. VIRGIL QUILLEN Pensioner Virgil Quillen, 69, passed away Jan. 13. Brother Quillen joined the union in 1965. He was a native of Delaware. Brother Quillen shipped with Moran Towing of Philadelphia for the duration of his career. He worked in the deck department. Brother Quillen became a pensioner in 2005. He was a resident of Bucks County, Pa. Editor’s note: The following brothers, all former members of the National Maritime Union (NMU), have passed away. SAMUEL AYLER Pensioner Samuel Ayler, 85, died Dec. 12. Brother Ayler was born in Alabama. He went on pension in 1993. Brother Ayler made his home in Mobile. LORENZO BROWN Pensioner Lorenzo Brown, 91, passed away Oct. 15. Brother Brown, a native of Mobile, Ala., started collecting his retirement compensation in 1987. He lived in Atlanta. TEODORO CABALLERO Pensioner Teodoro Caballero, 82, died Nov. 30. Born in Honduras, Brother Caballero became a pensioner in 1995. He called Odessa, Fla., home. ROBERTO CRUZ Pensioner Roberto Cruz, 80, passed away Dec. 9. Brother Cruz was born in Puerto Rico. He retired in 1997 and resided in Bronx, N.Y. WILLIE DAVIS Pensioner Willie Davis, 80, died Dec. 10. Brother Davis was a native of Crockett, Texas. He began receiving his pension in 2003. Brother Davis lived in Houston. NASER ELJAHMI Pensioner Naser Eljahmi, 88, passed away Nov. 20. Brother Eljajmi, a native of Yemen, went on pension in 1986. He made his home in Dearborn, Mich. RUDOLPH FONTANA Pensioner Rudolph Fontana, 83, died Nov. 29. Born in New York, Brother Fontana started receiving his retirement compensation in 1988. He lived in Tampa, Fla. ANTONIO HERNANDEZ Pensioner Antonio Hernandez, 85, passed away Dec. 15. Brother Hernandez retired in 1992 and settled in Honduras. HOOVER HYNDS Pensioner Hoover Hynds, 81, died Nov. 27. Brother Hynds, a native of Honduras, started collecting his retirement com- pensation in 1995. He lived in Marrero, La. FRANCIS MALVEIRA Pensioner Francis Malveira, 84, passed away Nov. 29. Brother Malveira was a native of Woburn, Mass. He became a pensioner in 1983 and called McKinney, Texas, home. ARTHUR NUNN Pensioner Arthur Nunn, 88, passed away Dec. 13. Brother Nunn, a native of Texas, began collecting his pension in 1987. He resided in Emeryville, Calif. HUEY ORTEGO Pensioner Heuy Ortego, 84, died Dec. 2. Born in Louisiana, Brother Ortego went on pension in 1988. He lived in Ville Platte, La. JUSTO PAZ Pensioner Justo Paz, 88, passed away Oct. 10. Brother Paz was born in Honduras. He retired in 1986 and was a resident of Los Angeles. PEDRO PIZARRO Pensioner Pedro Pizarro, 80, died Nov. 7. Brother Pizarro was born in Santurce, P.R. He became a pensioner in 1988. Brother Pizarro called Lakeland, Fla., home. HENRY STRICKLAN Pensioner Henry Stricklan, 82, passed away Nov. 10. Brother Stricklan, a native of San Francisco, went on pension in 1987. He settled in Portland, Ore. MILTON THOMAS Pensioner Milton Thomas, 91, passed away Nov. 20. Brother Thomas was born in Alabama. He began collecting compensation for his retirement in 1981. Brother Thomas made his home in Mobile, Ala. GEORGE VASILIKIS Pensioner George Vasilikis, 79, died Dec. 4. Born in Greece, Brother Vasilikis started receiving his pension in 1968. He continued to live in Greece. EDWIN WRIGHT Pensioner Edwin Wright, 85, died Nov. 16. Brother Wright began receiving his retirement pay in 1967. He was a resident of Manahawkin, N.J. Editor’s note: Sufficient information was not avaiable to develop writeups on the following NMU brothers who also have passed away: Name Age DOD Calderon, Ernesto Carrilho, Carlo De la Espriella, Anibal Dos santos, Antonio Guerra, Ruben Isles, Marlon Laidlow, Ansil Lugo, Juan Mattocks, Wallace Walker, Tilton 90 85 81 80 84 94 103 77 90 87 Dec. 4 Nov. 9 Nov. 21 Dec. 31 Nov. 21 Dec. 15 Oct. 25 Nov. 10 Nov. 19 Nov. 28 July 2013 6/25/2013 4:32:42 PM �Digest of Shipboard Union Meetings CHARLESTON (USS Transport), April 28 – Chairman Willie M. Marsh, Secretary Catherine M. Hays, Educational Director Kevin E. Hall, Deck Delegate Eddie Major, Engine Delegate Peter Joseph. Bosun went over ship’s itinerary. He reminded everyone to renew documents early and take advantage of Paul Hall Center. Educational director discussed eventual VPDSD requirement and why to obtain it. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Suggestion was made to change seatime requirements for retirement. Members talked about recent changes to clinic system. Next ports: Philadelphia, Houston and Corpus Christi, Texas. CHAMPION (Maersk Line, Limited), April 19 – Chairman Trevorous M. Ellison, Secretary Carlos L. Olascoaga, Educational Director Dennis R. Baker, Deck Delegate Demetrio Marchione, Engine Delegate David Terry. Chairman reported smooth voyage. He urged mariners to read the Seafarers LOG and take advantage of upgrades to SIU website. Crew members were advised to contribute to SPAD and keep all documents current. Educational director explained ship’s flag-out status. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Members requested more information on medical and retirement benefits. Next port: Newark, N.J. EAGLE (Maersk Line, Limited), April 27 – Chairman Michael J. Proveaux, Secretary Johnnie B. McGill, Educational Director Ronald M. Pheneuf, Deck Delegate Marc A. Marcus, Engine Delegate James D. Corprew, Steward Delegate Marcus Logan. Chairman explained ship’s upcoming schedule. Secretary reminded fellow members about importance of upgrading at Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md. Educational director went over how to care for messhall reefer. Crew was asked to keep doors closed and properly latched. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Mariners were reminded to have common courtesy when using computer (limit time so others have opportunity to use). Crew thanked steward department for a job well done. Next port: Elizabeth, N.J. GLOBAL SENTINEL (Transoceanic Cable Ship), April 29 – Chairman Lee H. Hardman, Secretary Shawn R. Fujiwara, Educational Director Lothar Wick, Deck Delegate Rayann Williams, Steward Delegate Robert J. Haggerty. Bosun expressed his gratitude to crew members for keeping ship clean and more than 900 July 2013 15047_JULY2K13LOG.indd 19 days accident-free sailing. He relayed that the TWIC office in Portland, Ore., relocated to Vancouver, Wash.; another office is in Fife, Wash. Crew discussed need for mariners to obtain new STCW security endorsement for their MMDs by January 1, 2014. Secretary stated $1,900 in ship’s fund. Educational director reminded crew members to get their time in and take advantage of upgrading at Piney Point. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Steward department was thanked for lunchtime BBQ. GREEN BAY (Waterman Steamship), April 16 – Chairman Nagi A. Musaid, Secretary Joseph C. Welle, Educational Director Arlie B. Villasor, Steward Delegate Louie C. Aceridano. Chairman talked to the captain and union hall about status of retro wages. Secretary asked crew departing vessel to leave rooms how they would want to find them. Educational director suggested crew take advantage of courses available at maritime training center in Piney Point. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Next ports: Savannah, Ga. and Baltimore. The Seafarers LOG attempts to print as many digests of union shipboard minutes as possible. On occasion, because of space limitations, some will be omitted. Ships’ minutes first are reviewed by the union’s contract department. Those issues requiring attention or resolution are addressed by the union upon receipt of the ships’ minutes. The minutes are then forwarded to the Seafarers LOG for publication. With Seafarers Aboard USNS Button AB Samuel Thatcher emailed these photos of fellow Seafarers aboard the prepositioning ship USNS Sgt. William R. Button. The mariners are shown enjoying a cookout in Diego Garcia. The Button is operated by Maersk Line, Limited, for the U.S. Military Sealift Command. OS Walid Nasser, Bosun Greg Jackson, OS Angel Sanchez HORIZON ENTERPRISE (Horizon Lines), April 21 – Chairman George B. Khan, Secretary William E. Bryley, Educational Director Jonathan A. Stratton. Bosun discussed changes to clinic system including numerous new locations where physicals can now be taken. He thanked everyone that came to the two burials at sea and gave kudos to captain for great job reading scriptures. Dayman Fadhl Said won safety sailor of the month. Importance of SPAD was talked about especially since the Jones Act is under attack again. Secretary reminded departing mariners to make sure rooms are clean and clean linens are ready. Educational director reminded fellow members to keep an eye on document expiration dates, allow plenty of time for renewals, and also head to Piney Point to upgrade. No beefs or disputed OT reported. New drinking fountain requested in crew lounge. Vote of thanks was given to Chief Cook Erni Lizada for a job well done. Kudos also given to SA Tom Gingerich for keeping dining area clean and well stocked. Next ports: Honolulu, Tacoma, Wash. and Oakland, Calif. on time. He reported Kodiak bear with cubs was spotted by longshoremen in Kodiak, Alaska; be careful and aware of your surroundings ashore. Secretary recommended members go to SIU website to see their seatime, dues, eligibility of benefits, etc. Educational director encouraged fellow Seafarers to upgrade at Paul Hall Center in Piney Point. Treasurer reported $5,000 in ship’s fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Suggestion was made to increase pension benefits and return one blanket day off every 42 days. Crew also discussed potential effects of sequestration on shipping. Next ports: Tacoma, Wash., Anchorage, Alaska and Kodiak, Alaska. HORIZON KODIAK (Horizon Lines), April 7 – Chairman Garry D. Walker, Secretary Lovie L. Perez, Educational Director Alfonso D. Bombita, Deck Delegate Mark Pesola, Engine Delegate Gebar Ogbe, Steward Delegate Strode V. Call. Chairman reminded crew members to pay their dues MAERSK WYOMING (Maersk Line, Limited), April 28 – Chairman Frank L. Thompson, Secretary Kenneth A. Hagan, Educational Director David Vega. Chairman reviewed ship’s itinerary and talked about importance of keeping track of vacation pay stubs QMED Randy Corey, QEE Jovanii Sprauve AB Bill Matthews SA Charles Kent, Chief Cook Gizelle Jones, Chief Steward Edwin Bonefont to use as proof of earnings when applying for pension benefits. Chief steward read the new protocol for CHSi physical and explained major new points. Educational director encouraged everyone to upgrade, obtain a rating and get an A-book. You have to be competitive, jobs are tight. No disputed OT; beef reported in deck department. OVERSEAS SANTORINI (OSG), April 21 – Chairman Stephen J. Argay, Secretary John W. Hale, Educational Director Edwin Feliciano, Deck Delegate Franklin B. Akins. Chairman reported good trip and thanked crew for separating their trash. He reminded them to get tour of duty letter when they sign off ship. Secretary reminded crew to enhance skills at Piney Point school and keep all necessary seafaring documents current. Mariners were reminded to leave rooms clean and supplied with fresh linen. Educational director suggested members check out changes to SIU website. Treasurer stated $1,500 in ship’s fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew expressed concerns about amount of provisions. Entire crew reported safe voyage. Galley gang was thanked for job well done. Next port: Corpus Christi, Texas. ST. LOUIS EXPRESS (Crowley), April 28 – Chairman Billy G. Hill, Secretary Richard A. Riley, Educational Director Daniel G. Ramirez, Deck Delegate Paul Dooley. Chairman announced payoff in Houston May 7. He reported injuryfree trip and thanked crew for their professionalism. Secretary suggested mariners read the Seafarers LOG to stay informed on union activities. Educational director urged crew to upgrade whenever possible at Paul Hall Center and stay current with documents. No beefs or disputed OT reported. New treadmill and washer are working well. Thanks were given to Port Agent Mike Russo for explaining changes in member’s yearly physical exams. Seafarers LOG 19 6/25/2013 4:32:45 PM �Letters To The Editor Maritime Day in Florida On Saturday, May 25, I had the honor of attending a National Maritime Day Service held on the water at Port Canaveral, Fla. The event was sponsored by the Navy League Cape Canaveral Council and supported by the Propeller Club of Port Canaveral, Port Canaveral Pilots Association, Ocala Chapter of the American Merchant Marine Veterans and the Military Sealift Command retiree group. At 10 a.m., we were warmly received by Kurt Ronstrom, past president (and a former merchant seaman) who led the group in the Pledge of Allegiance, followed by an invocation from the Rev. Mike Hoffman of the Space Coast Seafarers Ministry. Then the names of all of our comrades who “crossed the bar” in the past year were read aloud, and friends and family members remembered each individual. At 11a.m., about 40 attendees boarded a large pontoon boat docked at Rusty’s Seafood Restaurant for a trip out of the harbor to the jetties. A local pilot gave an excellent guided tour of the ships, piers and facilities and we watched as a pilot undocked a large tanker and sailed her for sea. We were escorted by a pilot boat and local law enforcement. Then myself and another retired SIU sailor tossed the wreath into the water as Taps sounded played by Lt. Cmdr. Waddell of the Courageous Division Sea Cadets. We then returned to the dock for a very good meal courtesy of Rusty’s and an opportunity to swap sea stories. Most of the attendees were retired sailors who sailed during World War II. I met ones from the Sailors’ Union of the Pacific, Seafarers Fishermen’s Union, a retired Staten Island Ferry captain, Armed Guard, graduates of Sheepshead Bay, a Panama Canal pilot as well as retirees from the Seafarers International Union. It was a good day and a good feeling to be able to participate in an event that takes place in many of our ports in U.S. cities on Maritime Day.   Harry T. Scholer SIU/AMO Ret. Article Evokes Memories I read an article by Ed Woods in the May Letters may be edited for conciseness and clarity. Submissions may be mailed to 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746 or e-mailed to webmaster@seafarers.org. 2013 issue of the LOG and enjoyed it very much because of similar circumstances, so I thought I’d tell my similar story, as follows. After completing my first year of college in 1945 I got my Army draft notice. Then later I saw a poster at the post office that said “join the merchant marine.” I followed up and joined. They sent me to Catalina Island for training. At that time if you had 36 months of sea time you were draft deferred. I was sent to an SIU hall and got on a freighter. Then in January 1946 I got on a Liberty ship that went to Bremerhaven, Germany We docked across from the submarine pens (intact). I believe the tide was 70 feet. On the dock was an active AA gun, workable. No ammo, though. The German guard on the gangway was a very interesting fellow. We were there seven days and got to talk to him about the war, etc. He spoke very good English. He said he was an armored vehicle driver for Herman Goering. He said he saved his life during a bombing raid and Herman gave him his watch as souvenir. On the back of the watch was inscribed Herman Goering. I offered five cartons of cigarettes for it and he said no, not even a case, he would die with it. I gave him a free carton of cigarettes for telling us war stories. He offered to walk my buddy and me to his folks’ house about two miles from the dock. This house had minor damage. He introduced us to his dad, who was a sub commander. On the wall was a picture of his sub with about eight American flags painted on the tower. What an eerie feeling. His dad would not talk to us. We left immediately. After hours the guard took us, walking, to a bar about a mile away. Five of us Americans and the guard plus about 50 other Germans were there. Music stopped when we arrived. Our guard had to convince the bartender we were all OK and buy each a beer. We were not welcomed and left shortly after. After I had 38 months’ sea time I got a letter from the government stating we were no longer draft deferred and should re-register ASAP. I got drafted in October 1950 along with 70 percent or so of the other mariners in our group. We had guys that had ships sunk and were on life rafts for seven days. What sea stories. We collectively were not cooperative with the Army command and we got penalized, by keeping us “recruits” at no additional pay for 12 months. I was radio operator and Jeep driver for our company commander for 20 months. Perfect record despite the cooperation issue, discharged as a private. My military occupational specialty (MOS) paperwork stated I was a sergeant. Six months after discharge the government said they changed my MOS to sergeant, but there was no retroactive pay. Have a good day. F.J. Indihar Merritt Island, Fla. Mariner-Friendly Business I completed the recertified steward program at Piney Point in 1999 and also attended Charles County Community College through the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan scholarship program about 12 years earlier. That same year (1987), I registered in Seattle and waited to be assigned as a steward/baker. I was allowed to assist the patrolman for a couple of weeks in the hall to understand shipping from another perspective. In 1998 I registered with a junior college in Scranton, Pa., to study building dynamics in order to become a commercial and residential building inspector. I completed the studies in 2001. The idea was (and is) to consult and offer project management services, including economic and community development, to the brethren and their families nationwide, particularly to help them make sound decisions when they purchase homes and buildings. My company, Bessinspection LLC, understands that we seamen spend our time making a living at sea and when we have unfinished business on shore, it’s important that people are looking out for our best interests. I also understand that paychecks are required to pay the bills while off the ship, too. Lovell McElroy Recertified Steward (205) 481-1502 bessinsp@me.com Shipboard Remembrance SIU VP West Coast Nick Marrone (third from right) and Asst. VP Nick Celona (left) got together with mariners aboard the Cape Orlando as part of the National Maritime Day happenings in California. Know Your Rights FINANCIAL REPORTS. The Constitution of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters makes specific provision for safeguarding the membership’s money and union finances. The constitution requires a detailed audit by certified public accountants every year, which is to be submitted to the membership by the secretary-treasurer. A yearly finance committee of rank-and-file members, elected by the membership, each year examines the finances of the union and reports fully their findings and recommendations. Members of this committee may make dissenting reports, specific recommendations and separate findings. TRUST FUNDS. All trust funds of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters are administered in accordance with the provisions of various trust fund agreements. All these agreements specify that the trustees in charge of these funds shall equally consist of union and management representatives and their alternates. All expenditures and disbursements of trust funds are made only upon approval by a majority of the trustees. All trust fund financial records are available at the headquarters of the various trust funds. SHIPPING RIGHTS. A member’s shipping rights and seniority are protected exclusively by contracts between the union and the employers. Members should get to know their shipping rights. Copies of these contracts are posted and available in all union halls. If members believe there have been violations of their shipping or seniority rights as contained in the contracts between the union and the employers, they should notify the Seafarers Appeals Board by certified mail, return receipt 20 Seafarers LOG 15047_JULY2K13LOG.indd 20 requested. The proper address for this is: Augustin Tellez, Chairman Seafarers Appeals Board 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 Full copies of contracts as referred to are available to members at all times, either by writing directly to the union or to the Seafarers Appeals Board. CONTRACTS. Copies of all SIU contracts are available in all SIU halls. These contracts specify the wages and conditions under which an SIU member works and lives aboard a ship or boat. Members should know their contract rights, as well as their obligations, such as filing for overtime (OT) on the proper sheets and in the proper manner. If, at any time, a member believes that an SIU patrolman or other union official fails to protect their contractual rights properly, he or she should contact the nearest SIU port agent. EDITORIAL POLICY — THE SEAFARERS LOG. The Seafarers LOG traditionally has refrained from publishing any article serving the political purposes of any individual in the union, officer or member. It also has refrained from publishing articles deemed harmful to the union or its collective membership. This established policy has been reaffirmed by membership action at the September 1960 meetings in all constitutional ports. The responsibility for Sea­farers LOG policy is vested in an editorial board which consists of the executive board of the union. The executive board may delegate, from among its ranks, one individual to carry out this responsibility. PAYMENT OF MONIES. No monies are to be paid to anyone in any official capacity in the SIU unless an official union receipt is given for same. Under no circumstances should any member pay any money for any reason unless he is given such receipt. In the event anyone attempts to require any such payment be made without supplying a receipt, or if a member is required to make a payment and is given an official receipt, but feels that he or she should not have been required to make such payment, this should immediately be reported to union headquarters. CONSTITUTIONAL RIGHTS AND OBLIGATIONS. Copies of the SIU Constitution are available in all union halls. All members should obtain copies of this constitution so as to familiarize themselves with its contents. Any time a member feels any other member or officer is attempting to deprive him or her of any constitutional right or obligation by any methods, such as dealing with charges, trials, etc., as well as all other details, the member so affected should immediately notify headquarters. EQUAL RIGHTS. All members are guaranteed equal rights in employment and as members of the SIU. These rights are clearly set forth in the SIU Constitution and in the contracts which the union has negotiated with the employers. Conse­quently, no member may be discriminated against because of race, creed, color, sex, national or geographic origin. If any member feels that he or she is denied the equal rights to which he or she is entitled, the member should notify union headquarters. SEAFARERS POLITICAL ACTIVITY DONATION (SPAD). SPAD is a separate segregated fund. Its proceeds are used to further its objects and purposes including, but not limited to, furthering the political, social and economic interests of maritime workers, the preservation and furthering of the American merchant marine with improved employment opportunities for seamen and boatmen and the advancement of trade union concepts. In connection with such objects, SPAD supports and contributes to political candidates for elective office. All contributions are voluntary. No contribution may be solicited or received because of force, job discrimination, financial reprisal, or threat of such conduct, or as a condition of membership in the union or of employment. If a contribution is made by reason of the above improper conduct, the member should notify the Seafarers International Union or SPAD by certified mail within 30 days of the contribution for investigation and appropriate action and refund, if involuntary. A member should support SPAD to protect and further his or her economic, political and social interests, and American trade union concepts. NOTIFYING THE UNION — If at any time a member feels that any of the above rights have been violated, or that he or she has been denied the constitutional right of access to union records or information, the member should immediately notify SIU President Michael Sacco at headquarters by certified mail, return receipt requested. The address is: Michael Sacco, President Seafarers International Union 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746. July 2013 6/25/2013 4:32:47 PM �Paul Hall Center Upgrading Course Information The following is a schedule of courses at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md., for the next few months. All programs are geared toward improving the job skills of Seafarers and promoting the American maritime industry. Please note that this schedule may change to reflect the needs of the membership, the maritime industry and—in times of conflict—national security. Students attending any of these classes should check in the Saturday before their course’s start date. The courses listed here will begin promptly on the morning of the start dates. For classes ending on a Friday, departure reservations should be made for Saturday. Seafarers who have any questions regarding the upgrading courses offered at the Paul Hall Center may call the admissions office at (301) 994-0010. Title of Start Date of Course Date Completion Title of Start Date of Course Date Completion Marine Electrician July 27 September 20 Marine Refer Tech September 28 November 8 Pumpman November 30 December 13 Welding July 27 August 16 September 14 October 4 October 26 November 15 November 30 December 20 Deck Department Lifeboatman/Water Survival July 20 August 2 August 17 August 30 September 14 September 27 October 12 October 25 November 9 November 22 December 7 December 20 STOS (RFPNW) July 20 August 16 September 14 October 11 November 9 December 6 Able Seaman August 24 September 20 October 12 November 8 November 16 December 13 Radar Renewal (One day) August 26 August 26 December 16 December 16 Radar Observer September 7 September 20 ARPA September 21 September 27 Bosun Recertification July 13 August 5 Fast Rescue Boat August 3 August 9 Engine Department Designated Duty Engineer Prep July 27 Safety Upgrading Courses Advanced Firefighting July 13 July 19 August 17 August 23 September 14 September 20 Basic Firefighting/STCW August 10 August 16 September 7 September 13 October 19 October 25 November 15 November 22 Government Vessels July 20 July 26 September 14 September 20 October 12 October 18 November 9 November 15 Medical Care Provider July 20 July 26 August 24 August 30 September 21 September 27 Tank PIC Barge (DL) October 14 October 18 Tanker Assistant (DL) July 27 August 9 Steward Department Upgrading Courses Chief Steward October 5 November 15 August 9 Serve Safe August 31 September 6 November 23 November 29 Basic Auxiliary Plant Operations (BAPO) July 20 August 16 September 14 October 11 Galley Operations November 9 December 6 These modules start every Monday. FOWT August 17 September 13 Chief Cook October 12 November 8 These modules start every other week. The next class will begin July 8. Junior Engineer August 24 October 18 Advanced Galley Operations October 26 December 20 These modules start every Monday. UPGRADING APPLICATION Name_________________________________________________________________________ Address_______________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________ Telephone (Home)_________________________ (Cell)_________________________ Date of Birth___________________________________________________________________ Deep Sea Member o Lakes Member o Inland Waters Member o If the following information is not filled out completely, your application will not be processed. Social Security #_______________________ Book #__________________________________ Seniority_____________________________ Department_____________________________ Home Port____________________________________________________________________ E-mail_______________________________________________________________________ Endorsement(s) or License(s) now held_____________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________ Are you a graduate of the SHLSS/PHC trainee program? o Yes o No If yes, class #___________________________________________________________________ Have you attended any SHLSS/PHC upgrading courses? o Yes o No If yes, course(s) taken____________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________ With this application, COPIES of the following must be sent: One hundred and twenty-five (125) days seatime for the previous year, one day in the last six months prior to the date your class starts, USMMD (z-card) front and back or relevant pages of merchant mariner credential, front page of your union book indicating your department and seniority, qualifying seatime for the course if it is Coast Guard tested, 1995 STCW Certificate, valid SHBP Clinic Card and TWIC. July 2013 15047_JULY2K13LOG.indd 21 COURSE ____________________________ START DATE _______________ DATE OF COMPLETION _______________________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________________ LAST VESSEL: ___________________________________ Rating: ____________________ Date On: _______________________________ Date Off:____________________________ SIGNATURE ____________________________________ DATE______________________ NOTE: Transportation will be paid in accordance with the scheduling letter only if you present original receipts and successfully complete the course. If you have any questions, contact your port agent before departing for Piney Point. Not all classes are reimbursable.Return completed application to: Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education Admissions Office, P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674-0075; or fax to (301) 994-2189. The Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education is a private, non-profit, equal opportunity institution and admits students, who are otherwise qualified, of any race, nationality or sex. The school complies with applicable laws with regard to admission, access or treatment of students in its programs or activities. 7/13 Seafarers LOG 21 6/25/2013 4:32:47 PM �Paul Hall Center Classes Apprentice Water Survival Class #772 – The following Phase I and Phase III unlicensed apprentices (above, in alphabetical order) completed this course May 10: Mark Cabasag II, Edrick Cruz, Tiffany Davis, Bobby Dunn Jr., Frank Harris III, Anthony Heck, Patrick Herz, Mark Jones, Fernando Marques Ortiz, Kyle Miller, Derak Minnix, Paul Nelson, John Reyes, Sergio Valentin, Jakeem Simmons and Brock Wilbur. Class Instructor Ben Cusic is at the far left. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Apprentice Water Survival Class #772 – Two upgraders completed this course May 10. Graduating (above from left) were Arturo Reyes and Lorenzo Tifre. Radar Observer – Seven upgraders graduated from this course May 10. Finishing their requirements (above, in alphabetical order) were: Romeo Codillero, Johnny Dozier III, Ernest Frank, Elijah Huff, John Mensah, John Nersten and Victor Nunez. Tank Barge (DL) – The following upgraders (above, in alphabetical order) graduated from this course May 10: Manuel Alicaway, James Dixon, Felix Garcia, David Goodwin, Thomas Griffin, Casey Matheson, Julius Morala, Patrick Nyampong, Richard Oliver, Juan Ruiz, Ervin Sadler, Silas Sam, Frank Smith, Michael Thompson, Kervin Velazquez, Jovan Williams and William Yurick. Their instructor, Mitch Oakley, is at the far right. Fast Rescue Boat – Eight individuals completed the enhancement of their skills in this course May 3. Those graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Albert Bharrat, Donte Harris, Kenneth LeDeoux, Michael Montanez, Efren Pahinag, Michael Souza, Philip Valentine and Bryant Wesley. Their instructor, Stan Beck, is standing fifth from the left. 22 Seafarers LOG 15047_JULY2K13LOG.indd 22 Welding – Five upgraders graduated from this course May 24. Completing their requirements (above, in alphabetical order) were: Mutea Alnuzely, Dudley James, Andre Mitchell, Andrus Rochez and Roberto Sabio. Their instructor, Buzzy Andrews, is second from the right in the back row. Specially Trained Ordinary Seaman – The following individuals (above, in alphabetical order) completed this course May 10: Mohamed Alomari, Patrick Bethel, Rhod Deleon, Nagi Obad, Wilfredo Rivera Jr., and Jason Wagner. Class Instructor Bernabe Pelingon is at the far left. Government Vessels – Fourteen upgraders finished their requirements in this course May 10. Those graduating (above, in no particular order) were Arthur Bailey, Fontanos Ellison, Victor Febres, Danilo Fullante, Steven Garrett, Donald Hutchens, Leslie McGirt, Johnnie Owens Jr., Alexander Rodriguez, Anthony Sabatini, Nathaniel Sherrill, Peter Williams, Robert Borro and Luis Santiago. Class Instructor Mark Cates is at the far right. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Tankship Familiarization (DL) – Two classes of Phase III apprentices graduated from this course May 10. Those graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Jarvis Atkins, Sylvestre Bautista, Robert Bell Jr., Tyler Burton, Daniel Diagle, Cory Devine, Christopher Dudley, Graham Duggins, Jonamie Encarnacion Rivera, Matthew Friend, Mohamed Gazaly, Dion Langley, Jenny Marcelin, Keith Miller, Steven Miller, Craig Nebbia, Jose Panlilio, Clinton Perrett, Adam Poole, Musa Salem, Ethan Sims, Connor Wambach, Edward Wright and John Zotti. (Note: Not all are pictured.) July 2013 6/25/2013 4:32:53 PM �Paul Hall Center Classes FOWT – Fourteen upgraders graduated from this course May 17. Finishing their requirements (left), in alphabetical order) were: Vasil Cholakovski, Oscar Cordero, Randall Craig, Matt Dalgetty, Sean Hernandez, Jeremy Jendrusiak, Jade Kellar, Todd Lander, Joseph Loguidice, Yahya Mohamed, Jerry Morlett, Robert Sale, Frank Sambula and Oshema Watson. Class Instructor Tim Achorn is at the far right. Notice to Students Students who have registered for classes at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, but later discover - for whatever reason - that they can’t attend, should inform the admissions department immediately so arrangements can be made to have other students take their places. Electronic Chart Display Information Systems – The following individuals (above, in alphabetical order) graduated from this course May 3: Jerron Broussard, Richard Cavalier, Ryan Emmons, Mark Gaskill, Joseph Gordon, John Howard, Sean Jordan, Gerald Kehoe, Chad Macaulay and John Zarroli. Their instructor, Charles Noell III, is at the far right. Automatic Radar Plotting Aids – Eight upgraders graduated from this course May 24. Completing their requirements (above, in alphabetical order) were: Cory Arnaud, Romeo Codillero, Johnny Dozier III, Ernest Frank, Elijah Huff, John Nersten, Victor Nunez and Erasmo Vizcaino. Steward Department Classes – Four upgraders recently finished Steward Department courses. Those completing courses and the newest area of expertise (above, from the left) were: Francisco Ocado, galley ops; Charles Rumble, advanced galley ops; Marguerite Diggs, chief cook; and Quentin Hood, chief cook. BST (SIU) – The following Seafarers (above, in alphabetical order) completed this course May 17: Manuel Alicaway, James Atwell, Justin Baehring, Arthus Bailey, Robert Borro, Eric Chisman, Jorge Corrales, Fontanos Ellison, Terrence Kane, Kenneth LeDoux, Edfebrian Lopez, Gerald McIntyre, Derek Minnix, Paul Nelson, Johnnie Owens Jr., Kevin Quinlan, Alexander Rodriguez, Juan Ruiz Manaiza, Silas Sam, Wikliam Soileau, Jovan William and William Yurick. Class Instructor Mike Steward Department Classes – Several upgraders recently completed steward Roberts is at the far right. (Note: Not all are pictured.) department classes. Those completing classes and their respective areas (above, from left) were: Ali Matari, chief steward; Florence Brinson, chief steward; Yahya Munassar, certified chief cook; and Rashaad Mangram, certified chief cook. Chief Steward – Three upgraders recently finished their requirements in this course. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Harlan Alonzo, Vincent Igneri and Andrew Andrini. July 2013 15047_JULY2K13LOG.indd 23 Chief Cook – A pair of Seafarers recently completed the enhancement of their skills in this course. Graduating were David Moses (left) and Tim Heffernan. Steward Department Classes – Several Seafarers recently completed courses in the Steward Department. Finishing their requirements (above from left) were: Algernon Ramseur, galley ops; Leslie McGirt, advanced galley ops; Charles Rumble, advanced galley ops; Nina McFall, advanced galley ops; Chris D’Andrea, advanced galley ops; and Mai Li Wang, advanced galley ops. Seafarers LOG 23 6/25/2013 4:32:59 PM �Volume 75, Number 7 July 2013 Paul Hall Center Course Dates Page 21 GALVESTON CEREMONY – SIU Houston Port Agent Mike Russo (left in group photo) represented the union at this year’s gathering in Galveston, Texas. Pictured with him from left to right are Dave Weathers of AMO, Wayne Farthing of MM&P, a WWII mariner and Tammy Lobaugh of Texas A&M. The other photos show the presentation of the colors, and an SIU-crewed G&H Towing tug participating in the ceremony. Maritime Day Celebrated Coast to Coast PORT ARTHUR CEREMONY – In Port Arthur, Texas, the SIU was well-represented for the 27th annual local celebration. SIU Asst. VP Jim McGee (photo above) and retiree Eldridge Smith (right) addressed the gathering, while SIUcrewed tugs from Seabulk Towing (below) joined in the tribute. Each year, SIU members and officials participate in National Maritime Day ceremonies honoring the centurieslong service of the U.S. Merchant Marine. For this year’s commemorations, union members and officials from coast to coast once again stepped up to not only salute the past sacrifices of mariners but also to reinforce the vital importance of maintaining a strong U.S.-crewed, U.S.-flag fleet. Last month’s LOG included detailed coverage of the traditional National Maritime Day ceremonies in Washington, D.C. (The article and related photo gallery are online at seafarers.org.) This page contains photos from two ceremonies in Texas and a moment of recognition in Guam. Congress in 1933 designated May 22 as National Maritime Day. The White House issues an annual proclamation reaffirming the designation and calling on the people of the United States to mark the observance and to display the U.S. flag in their homes and communities. All ships sailing under the American flag are requested to dress ship on that day. In addition to being recognized on May 22, the U.S. Merchant Marine received strong acknowledgement less than a week later, on Memorial Day, from Deputy Maritime Administrator Paul “Chip” Jaenichen. He and other distinguished guests participated in an event at the World War II Memorial in the nation’s capital commemorating mariners, especially those who sailed during the war. TEAMING UP WITH MSC IN GUAM – At the SIU hall in Guam, Port Agent John Hoskins (right) and CDR Brian Peterson (left), commanding officer of Military Sealift Command Ship Support Unit Guam, joined in remembering the service and sacrifices of our nation’s mariners. 15047_JULY2K13LOG.indd 24 6/25/2013 4:33:06 PM � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Seafarers Log Issues 2010-2019 Description An account of the resource Volumes LXXII-LXXXI of the Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Seafarers Log Digital Copies Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 2010-2019 Document A resource containing textual data. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre text. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource July 2013 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES NEW TANKERS ORDERED NEW MSC COMMANDER SHANNON SALUTES U.S. MERCHANT MARINERS SIU-CREWED SHIPS EARN SAFETY RECOGNITION TANKER ORDER MEANS NEW SIU JOBS NASSCO TO BUILD AT LEAST 4 JONES ACT SHIPS FOR APT SEAFARERS CREW UP NEW MAERSK CONTAINERSHIPS ATC CEO EARNS LABOR-MANAGEMENT AWARD TOTE’S PLANNED LNG CONTAINERSHIPS RECEIVE GLOBAL HONORS FOR INNOVATION MARITIME, LABOR COMMUNITIES MOURN LATE SENATOR LAUTENBERG ITF CHANGES LEADERSHIP REMINDERS CONCERNING CREDENTIALS PIRACY REPORT SHOWS SHIFT IN ATTACKS TO WEST AFRICA ITF OFFICIAL CALLS FOR FAIR TREATMENT OF WORKERS JONES ACT OPPONENTS TRUMPED BY FACTS SIU MEMBERS DELIVER FOR KEY U.S. PROGRAM OCEAN GIANT CARRIES VITAL CARGOES FOR OPERATION DEEP FREEZE FOURTH ARM OF DEFENSE STEPS UP FOR EXERCISES MARITIME DAY CELEBRATED COAST TO COAST Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Seafarers Log Digital Copies Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 07/01/2013 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Newsprint Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context Vol. 75, No. 7 2013 Periodicals Seafarers Log http://www.seafarerslog.org/archives/files/original/f693f7979f3e0f3dddf86533d21b8930.pdf 46decf6cc5fa4361ebca10b880fe5c65 PDF Text Text Volume 75, Number 8 August 2013 Mariners Remain Ready, Willing, Able In this Navy file photo, the amphibious assault ship USS Boxer (immediate right) conducts a replenishment at sea with Seafarers-crewed USNS Henry J. Kaiser (far right). Seafarers, since the founding of the union in 1938, have played an important role in our Armed Forces’ ability to defend our nation and its interests around the globle. To see how SIU members continue that proud tradition today, see related story and more photos on Page 7. Progress Continues In MLP Program The Seafarers-contracted USNS Montford Point (pictured earlier this year in San Diego) recently left the NASSCO shipyard for Naval Station Everett, Wash. Operated by Ocean Ships, Inc. for the U.S. Military Sealift Command, the Montford Point is the Navy’s first mobile landing platform. Page 4. Seafarers Approve Contracts At Matson, Express Marine Agreements Boost Wages, Maintain Benefits Seafarers have given the thumbs-up to new collective bargaining agreements at Matson Navigation and Express Marine, respectively. Aboard Matson’s Mokihana (photo above), Recertified Steward Franco Pizzuto (left) and ACU Hussein Ali react to the new contract. Page 3. MTD News Page 4 15048_AUG_2013_LOG.indd 1 SIU Snapshots Pages 8-9 Important VPDSD Reminder Page 10 7/24/2013 10:38:14 PM �President’s Report Proud to Support Our Troops Whether you’re a new member or an old salt, active or retired, sailing or working as a union rep, at some point we’ve all had the experience of telling someone what we do for a living, and getting a reply along the lines of, “The U.S. Merchant Marine? Oh. What branch of the military is that again?” We of course aren’t part of the armed services, but anyone who knows the SIU knows we’re proud to support our troops. That’s been the case since our founding in 1938. We were there in World War II, delivering the goods in every theater as more than 1,200 SIU members lost their lives. We were there again in Korea and Vietnam, arguably less-remembered fights that still saw our SIU brothers and sisters willingly put themselves in harm’s way. We were Michael Sacco there for the first Persian Gulf War, when members came out of retirement and joined with active Seafarers to help meet sealift needs that had been neglected by others. And we’ve been there most recently for Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom/New Dawn, as America fights a new kind of battle. We were first described as America’s “fourth arm of defense” in World War II, and it’s a label that still fits today. In fact, one of the positives to emerge from our recent (and ongoing) battles to protect America’s Food for Peace program was hearing top officers at the U.S. Transportation Command say they simply couldn’t get the job done without us. The new commander of the U.S. Military Sealift Command said the same thing, and the sentiment was echoed by Democratic and Republican members of Congress, both at a recent hearing and in communications related to the Food for Peace fight, as they examined our role in transporting government cargoes. I’m grateful and not surprised to know that our military leaders have our backs, just like we’ll always have theirs. They understand and appreciate our work as much or more than anyone. They know the value we bring – economically, for sure, but far more importantly in the reliable delivery of materiel for our uniformed men and women around the world. They know that a U.S.-flag ship with a U.S.-citizen crew will do whatever it takes to deliver cargo to our troops, wherever and whenever needed. Like it says in concluding the line from “Heave Ho!”, the World War II-era song of the U.S. Maritime Service, “Damn the submarine! We’re the men of the Merchant Marine!” (The modern lyric would be edited to reflect our many union sisters who go to sea, but you get the point.) Our economic value is important, too, especially when our nation has had such a rough stretch these last five years. Food for Peace helps sustain tens of thousands of good jobs – more than 100,000 if you include all the ones related to the program. The Jones Act pumps billions of dollars into our economy while sustaining around 500,000 American jobs. The U.S. Maritime Security Program helps keep our Defense capabilities at acceptable levels, and for a fraction of what it would cost the government to replicate from scratch. (The commonly quoted estimate from our military is that it would take billions – yes, billions – of dollars to do so.) All three of those programs, the pillars of the U.S.-flag deep sea industry, maintain a reliable pool of American mariners who are ready, willing and able to “turn to” for our military. To me, the bottom line is that our industry is good for the country. Our programs make sense. Our performance is consistently reliable. And whether it’s on a containership, a tanker, an ATB, a RO/ RO or a mobile landing platform, whether it’s along the coast or halfway around the world, I know for a fact that we will never, ever let anything stand in our way when it’s time to deliver the goods for our men and women in uniform. You can’t put a price on that kind of loyalty, service and dedication. That’s why we need a strong U.S. Merchant Marine. Volume 75, Number 8 Maritime Industry Welcomes Secretary Anthony Foxx to DOT New Transportation Secretary Vows to Support Maritime The American maritime community is pledging grams of vital importance to American mariners and to help recently confirmed Transportation Secretary the industry as a whole. The Jones Act helps ensure there’s an available Anthony Foxx grow the maritime industry while strengthening the country’s economic and national U.S. merchant fleet and reliable U.S. mariners by stipulating that only vessels built, flagged, owned and security. In a letter to Foxx following his confirmation, the crewed American transport goods between American ports. The MSP, meanwhile, SIU-affiliated American Mariprovides operational support to time Partnership (AMP) empha60 militarily useful ships that ensized the important role shipping able them to meet the country’s plays in the country’s transportanational security needs. tion network while also reminding Foxx of the work American “If confirmed, I would supmariners do in assisting the naport the Jones Act and the protion in times of crisis. grams available to maintain the strength of our maritime indusFoxx’s position atop the try, including proper funding and Transportation Department is administration of the [Maritime] especially important to maritime Security Program,” Foxx said since the department overseas during his confirmation hearing. inland waterways and houses the “I would work closely with the U.S. Maritime Administration. Department of Defense, industry “Ours is a proud industry that and labor to monitor the health helps supply, feed, fuel, move of the U.S.-flag fleet, faciliand defend the nation,” AMP tate the retention of vessels and wrote to Foxx, who previously mariners, and develop a national served as mayor of Charlotte, N.C. “American maritime is an sealift strategy that ensures the economic powerhouse and is relong-term viability of the U.S. Merchant Marine as a naval auxsponsible for more than 500,000 iliary and as a U.S. presence in jobs and more than $100 billion the international trade.” of annual economic output, inFoxx was later confirmed by cluding in your home state ports Anthony Foxx DOT Secretary the Senate unanimously. of Wilmington and Morehead “The unanimous votes by City.” the Senate and the Commerce Foxx has gone on record stating his support of the American maritime industry. Committee convey our confidence in Mayor Foxx During his confirmation hearing before the Senate as the right person to lead the Transportation DeCommerce, Science and Transportation Committee, partment,” said Senate Commerce, Science and Foxx said he would back and defend the Jones Act Transportation Committee Chairman Jay Rockand the Maritime Security Program (MSP) – two pro- efeller (D-W.Va.). Union Weighs Move from New York It’s not definite, but the SIU is aggressively pursuing plans to move its New York-area operations from the current hall in Brooklyn to a newer facility in Jersey City, N.J. During the July membership meetings, rankand-file Seafarers approved the move. “Nothing has been finalized, but the union received a substantial offer for the Brooklyn hall, and there’s no shipping in New York,” noted SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel. “The vast majority of our ships in that area are in New Jersey.” SIU Vice President Atlantic Coast Joseph Soresi, who’s based at the New York hall, added, “The new building we’re looking at in Jersey City would be much more convenient for the vast ma- jority of our members in this area. The building itself is more modern and close to public transportation. It has some parking spots but it’s in a residential area and there’s also street parking.” It would be an historic move. The SIU kept its headquarters in New York from the union’s founding in 1938 until 1982, when the current headquarters building opened in the Washington, D.C., suburb of Camp Springs, Md. The union always has maintained a facility in New York, however. Moreover, while not quite a homecoming, a relocation to Jersey City wouldn’t be the first time the SIU operated from there, either. The union for many years shared a Jersey City office with its affiliated United Industrial Workers. August 2013 The SIU online: www.seafarers.org The Seafarers LOG (ISSN 1086-4636) is published monthly by the Seafarers International Union; Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters, AFL-CIO; 5201 Auth Way; Camp Springs, MD 20746. Telephone (301) 899-0675. Periodicals postage paid at Southern Maryland 20790-9998. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to the Seafarers LOG, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. Communications Director, Jordan Biscardo; Managing Editor/Production, Jim Guthrie; Assistant Editor, Brian Ahern; Photographer, Harry Gieske; Administrative Support, Misty Dobry. Copyright © 2013 Seafarers International Union, AGLIW. All Rights Reserved. The Seafarers International Union engaged an environmentally friendly printer for the production of this newspaper. The union’s New York hall is located on 4th Avenue in Brooklyn. 2 Seafarers LOG 15048_AUG_2013_LOG_X.indd 2 August 2013 7/26/2013 9:21:26 AM �The SIU’s negotiating team for the Express Marine contract consisted of (from left) members Doug Covil and Riley Johnson, Philadelphia Port Agent Joe Baselice, member Parran Keane and VP Atlantic Coast Joseph Soresi. Pictured from left on Matson’s Manulani are ACU Abdulhalim Ali, Chief Steward Timothy Laird, SIU Guam Port Agent John Hoskins and Chief Cook Romarico Hinayon. Gathering for a photo on Matson’s Maunalei after reviewing contract highlights are (front, from left) Chief Cook Richard Walker, Chief Steward Colleen Mast, (back, from left) ACU Larry Ballard and Port Agent John Hoskins. Members Approve Contracts At Matson, Express Marine The SIU continues to deliver gainful contracts despite the subpar economy. The latest examples are new agreements at Matson Navigation and Express Marine, respectively. SIU members overwhelmingly ratified contracts with both companies from late June through July. The four-year Matson agreement retroactively took effect July 1. It calls for annual wage increases as well as inclusion of the company’s planned new tonnage. It also stipulates increases to the Seafarers Money Purchase Pension Plan (SMPPP) and maintains health benefits at the top level available through the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan, Core Plus. The union also secured an additional pension increase of $250 per month for active mariners along with a 2 percent increase for current pensioners covered by the Pacific District Pension Plan. SIU Vice President Contracts George Tricker, in his report for the July membership meetings, noted that additional plusses in the Matson contract include “baggage reimbursement for first and second bags on required air travel, increased frequency of email exchange via satellite, new mattresses to be provided on request after any yard period, and Washington’s birthday swapped for Presidents’ Day in recognition of the holiday.” SIU Vice President West Coast Nick Marrone, who negotiated the new Matson contract, stated, “There were no negatives for us. We have nothing but gains ITF Protects Mariners’ Rights The Fair Practices Committee of the International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF) met last month in Chicago. Pictured at one of the sessions (photo above, from left) are SIU VP Great Lakes Tom Orzechowski, American Maritime Officers President Tom Bethel and SIU President Michael Sacco, and (photo below, second from left on dais) SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel, who chairs the ITF Seafarers’ Section. The Fair Practices Committee includes seafarer and docker union representatives from around the world, and manages the federation’s flag-of-convenience campaign. The committee also oversees ITF collective bargaining agreements covering mariners. August 2013 15048_AUG_2013_LOG.indd 3 in this new agreement.” The union represents steward department mariners aboard Matson ships. Meanwhile, the new three-year contract with Express Marine calls for substantial wage increases, maintains pension and Core Plus benefits and increases company contributions to the SMPPP. It also features other gains including a boost in location-differential pay. Negotiating for the union were Atlantic Coast Vice President Joseph Soresi, Philadelphia Port Agent Joe Baselice and members Riley Johnson, Parran Keane and Doug Covil. “I think it’s a good contract,” Johnson said. “There are a lot of details in this one, and everybody did well, in my opinion.” SIU crews at Express Marine help transport dry bulk and liquid cargoes, primarily along the East and Gulf Coasts. The SIU represents the captains, mates and ABs, while the other crew members are represented by the Seafarers-affiliated American Maritime Officers. In other contract news, effective July 1, unlicensed SIU personnel aboard Sealift, Inc. vessels received a 3 percent increase to wages and wage-related items. Also, effective July 28, SIU crew members employed aboard Ready Reserve Force (RRF) vessels received a 3 percent increase to their wages, overtime pay and SMPPP company contribution amount. Report Reinforces PL-480’s Merits In the current fight to maintain America’s highly effective Food for Peace program (PL-480), supporters have warned of the pitfalls of altering the program by making direct monetary payments to foreign countries instead of delivering U.S.-grown, U.S.-shipped food. As SIU President Michael Sacco recently put it, “There are some who believe mistakenly that it would be better to just hand the money used for the program to foreign governments or other interests. As we have seen over the years, money has a way of disappearing while people continue to go hungry. For 60 years, there has been no doubt the food sent overseas by American farmers aboard American vessels has reached their destinations to help those in need.” A new report by the Office of the Special Inspector General for Afghanistan Reconstruction indirectly highlights the need to maintain the accountability and transparency associated with the current structure of Food for Peace. The report criticizes the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) for its lack of oversight in Afghan reconstruction. The report’s conclusion: “In the absence of effective oversight from USAID, IRD (International Relief and Development) made programmatic decisions that led to both waste and mismanagement of resources under the S-RAD (Southern Regional Agricultural Development) program. Robust oversight by funding agencies—in this case USAID, is the first line of defense when U.S. government dollars are on the line. In environments such as Afghanistan, strong oversight is especially important. However, in the case of the S-RAD program, USAID did not exercise oversight as effectively as it could and should have. As a result, equipment was purchased that may be left unused or stolen; inflated prices for agricultural products were potentially paid; and unnecessary costs for storing, disassembling, and distributing unneeded pumps were incurred.” In response, one former government official noted, “The U.S. Agency for International Development does not have the oversight capability to implement the administration’s proposed changes to the current food aid program.” Meanwhile, a recent news article pointed out the bipartisan support enjoyed by the program. Report- ing on the defeat of an amendment that would have crippled PL-480, Mark Gruenberg credited maritime labor with helping lead the charge to save tens of thousands of American jobs tied to Food for Peace. “Maritime unions, the maritime industry, the nation’s leading – and most conservative – farm group, and other transportation unions all joined together to defeat a bipartisan, Obama-backed plan to spend U.S. food aid money overseas,” he wrote, adding that the fight isn’t over. Fortunately, hundreds of legislators sided with maintaining the program. As U.S. Rep. Steven Fincher (R-Tenn.) put it, “This amendment favors our foreign competitors over American-grown products, American-grown industries, and jobs filled by Americans. An American is employed at every step in Food for Peace. Americans grow the crops. The commodities are processed and packaged in the United States. Those packages are carried by our railroads and barges to American seaports and finally delivered to the receiving nations by U.S.flagged vessels.” U.S. Rep. Elijah Cummings (D-Md.), whose district includes the Port of Baltimore, reminded his colleagues that U.S.-flag cargo ships used to ship food also ship materiel to troops. “Policies such as the one embodied in this amendment would drive more vessels from the U.S.-flag fleet,” Cummings said. The American Farm Bureau Federation, which is usually at odds with organized labor, told lawmakers that using Food for Peace money to buy things abroad would let host nations divert the cash away from the hungry – and cost the U.S. positive publicity. “Cash too easily can be used for purposes other than feeding people,” Texas cattle rancher Bob Stallman, the Farm Bureau president, said in a blog. “Food can only be useful going into someone’s stomach. Shipping a cargo load of food, rather than the money to buy food – if it is available – is the best and most secure way to ensure taxpayer-funded international food assistance actually makes it to hungry people. Giving people sacks of food with ‘USA’ on them is good international relations. Seeing those USA-labeled food donations in news photos does make a difference!” Seafarers LOG 3 7/24/2013 10:03:11 PM �USNS Seay Crew Assists Stricken Vessel in Atlantic Seafarers-Crewed Ship Tows Disabled Catamaran to Safety After receiving a radioed distress message while traveling through the Atlantic Ocean on June 25, the Seafarers-crewed USNS Seay changed course to provide assistance to a stricken vessel. The Seay soon found the Raptor, a 49foot, Australian-flagged catamaran that had experienced trouble with its sails five days earlier before the vessel’s engines failed. The five-member crew of the Raptor – who were of different nationalities – was in fairly good spirits despite its predicament, according to the Military Sealift Command (MSC). Capt. Bruce Kreger, master of the Seay, added the crew of the Raptor was still eager to be on its way. “The crew of the Raptor seemed anxious to affect repairs and get back on their voyage,” Kreger said. The Seay then consulted with British Indian Ocean Territory Diego Garcia’s cus- Message to SIU Crews About MTD Changes Editor’s note: The following message was posted on the SIU website July 19 and also was emailed to SIU-crewed ships and SIU halls. A related message was posted and sent July 22. It’s available online in the news section. You may have read or heard about some recent changes at the AFL-CIO’s Maritime Trades Department, which is led by SIU President Michael Sacco. Specifically, the ILA and the MEBA have left the MTD and formed a much smaller splinter group (the Maritime Labor Alliance) that isn’t affiliated with the AFL-CIO. (The MM&P is an ILA affiliate, so it never was a direct MTD member organization.) On behalf of both the SIU and the MTD, we regret their departure. We are encouraged, though, by communications at the regional and local levels that clearly indicate the continuation of the many outstanding working relationships – and friendships – that have been developed over the decades, whether aboard ship, on the docks, through area labor federations or state labor organizations. We can disagree about things and still work together. The MTD now has 21 affiliate unions with a collective membership of around 5 million. Through its national organization and regional port councils, it will continue to serve as the leading voice of American maritime labor. The departures of two unions, while not inconsequential, frankly won’t affect MTD operations all that much. The news release about the disaffiliations refers to raiding and jurisdictional infringement. We know for a fact that no raiding has taken place (note that no charges were ever even filed at the AFL-CIO alleging a raid by the SIU or any of its affiliates). Put another way, any organization that repeatedly fails to engage in organizing non-union workers shouldn’t blame another one for giving workers union representation. It’s also important to note that the other union who disaffiliated from the MTD remains under AFLCIO sanctions for raiding the SIUNA-affiliated AMO. The MTD will continue to effectively promote our industry and protect your jobs, as has been the case since its founding in 1946. toms and police officials before deciding to tow the stricken vessel to Diego Garcia. “It took about 20 hours to complete the tow, but the safety of the vessels was our primary objective,” Kreger said. Once reaching a distance of approximately three nautical miles away from the Diego Garcia lagoon, the Seay transferred the Raptor to a small craft assigned to local port operations which safely towed the Raptor to the pier. The Raptor was then scheduled to undergo repairs at Diego Garcia. Operated by SIU-contracted American Overseas Marine (AMSEA), the Seay is one of 12 Navy ships assigned to the Maritime Prepositioning Ship Squadron Two, which ensures the readiness of the U.S. Navy by prepositioning ships in the Pacific. As one of those ships, the Seay carries prepositioned cargo for various U.S. military services with the mission of transporting vital equipment and supplies to a designated area of operations in support of combatant commanders worldwide. SIU-Crewed MLP Departs San Diego The Seafarers-contracted USNS Montford Point departed San Diego on July 12 and sailed for Naval Station Everett, Wash., signaling steady progress in the Navy’s mobile landing platform (MLP) program. Operated by Ocean Ships, Inc. for the U.S. Military Sealift Command (MSC), the Montford Point is the first of at least three vessels in the new MLP fleet. It was built at a union shipyard – General Dynamics NASSCO – and delivered to the Navy May 14. According to MSC, the Montford Point “is scheduled for final contract trials in September, with its core capability set installed later this year.” The second ship in the MLP lineup, the John Glenn, had its keel laid in December. It is slated for delivery in March 2014. A third ship, the USNS Lewis B. Puller, also is under construction at NASSCO. The MLPs will be utilized as prepositioning ships, supporting the Navy and Marine Corps. “Montford Point will provide the key link – the pier in the ocean – that will permit the military to engage in true seabasing sustainment of equipment and supplies to our troops ashore, from beyond the horizon,” said Mike Touma, assistant engineering officer in MSC’s prepositioning program. Vessels in this class will use float-on/float-off technology and a reconfigurable deck to maximize capability, according to the agency. Modules can be added to a vehicle staging area, vehicle transfer ramp, large mooring fenders and more. Each vessel in the class, according to NASSCO, will be around 784 feet long with a sailing speed of greater than 15 knots. Each will feature a twin-screw diesel electric propulsion system. The Montford Point is named in honor of the 20,000 African American Marine Corps recruits who trained at Camp Montford Point, N.C., from 1942 to 1949. The John Glenn will be named in honor of John Herschel Glenn, Jr., the former U.S. Marine Corps pilot, astronaut and U.S. senator. Glenn was the first American to orbit the Earth and the third American in space. The Lewis B. Puller will be named in honor of Lt. Gen. Lewis “Chesty” Puller, the most decorated Marine in history and the only one to be awarded five Navy Crosses. SIU President Meets Seafarers in Ft. Lauderdale SIU President Michael Sacco (fourth from right) recently met with Seafarers at the union hall in Ft. Lauderdale, Fla. Pictured with him from left to right are Mario Delacruz, Larry Bachelor, Dave Williams, Jose Boza, Carlos Suazo, Larry Harewood, Fernando Domenicale, Jose Smith and Louis Holder. Maritime Labor Convention 2006 Nears Implementation Date As the maritime industry heads into August, one of the most notable events will be the implementation of the Maritime Labor Convention, 2006 (MLC). For most mariners sailing under the U.S. flag this may be inconsequential, but for the hundreds of thousands seafarers sailing under a dodgy flag-of-convenience (FOC) it is a long-awaited opportunity for them to finally have respect and dignity while working at sea. There have been many reports about the abuses foreign seafarers have endured since the FOC system came into being in the early 20th century. The MLC gives minimum rights and protections to all seafarers regardless of what the flag they work under. Set to go into effect Aug. 20 after being ratified by nearly 40 countries, the MLC will establish an international set of standards for the maritime industry. That set of standards guarantees seafarers around the world have access to a basic set of rights, including adequate pay and good working conditions. The keys to the convention are compliance and enforcement. Flag states and port states have responsibilities that they must meet. Under the convention, each member state implements and enforces laws or regulations or other measures that it has adopted to fulfill its commitments under the accord 4 Seafarers LOG 15048_AUG_2013_LOG.indd 4 with respect to ships and seafarers under its jurisdiction. Further, each member state effectively exercises its jurisdiction and control over ships that fly its flag by establishing a system for ensuring compliance with the requirements of the convention, including regular inspections, reporting, monitoring and legal proceedings under the applicable laws. Each member state will also ensure that ships flying its flag carry a maritime labor certificate and a declaration of maritime labor compliance as required by the convention. And finally, a ship to which this convention applies may, in accordance with international law, be inspected by a member other than the flag state when the ship is in one of its ports to determine whether the vessel complies with convention requirements. That requirement could mean Americanflag ships may be inspected and detained if the MLC is not ratified by the United States. While U.S. laws and regulations, coupled with collective bargaining agreements, ensure U.S.-flag ships exceed the MLC’s provisions, American ships may still be subject to inspection and possible detainment if the U.S. fails to ratify the convention. Under the MLC’s “no more favorable treatment clause,” any vessel flagged to a country that has not ratified the convention will be subject to inspection and detainment when arriving in the port of an MLC member nation. To date, the MLC member nations make up 39 countries that account for nearly 70 percent of the world’s tonnage. Those countries include Australia, Canada, Greece, Singapore and Spain. SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel – who also serves as chairman of the International Transportation Workers’ Federation (ITF) Seafarers’ Section – has said in recent forums that work is being done to have the convention ratified by the United States. It’s the only way, he added, to avoid the burden of undue inspections and detainments. “With regard to U.S. ratification, we have been working with the U.S. Coast Guard and Department of Labor and our social partners (shipowners) to bring it forward and are quite happy to say we hope to have the U.S. Senate vote on ratification before the year’s end,” Heindel said. “We owe it to the world’s seafarers and look forward to a speedy U.S. ratification and an effective enforcement policy.” Preparing for the possibility the U.S. would not ratify the MLC, the Coast Guard published a notice in February that estab- lished a set of procedures for the inspection of U.S. vessels related to voluntary compliance with the MLC. By establishing it has voluntarily complied with the MLC’s standards on its own, a U.S. vessel could obtain a Statement of Voluntary Compliance, Maritime Labor Convention. That document could make the process of docking in foreign ports less likely to be inspected if that port state were signatory to the MLC. Widely considered to be a seafarers’ bill of rights, the MLC was hailed as a huge step forward upon its adoption. It incorporates the standards of 68 International Labor Organization (ILO) conventions into one document and provides unprecedented protections for seafarers worldwide. The MLC’s standards address everything from wages, hours of work and age requirements, to food, health and workplace accommodations. In a speech earlier this year, Heindel called the MLC the “Magna Carta” of the modern shipping industry. “The MLC may be one of, if not the most important pieces of international legislation on behalf of seafarers enacted in maritime history in nearly 100 years,” he said. “The convention is all about fairness: fairness to the legitimate shipowner and, more importantly, fairness to the seafarers employed by them.” August 2013 7/24/2013 10:03:12 PM �AOTOS Honorees: Rep. King, Fisher, Rouvelas The United Seamen’s Service (USS) recently announced that its 2013 Admiral of the Ocean Sea awards (AOTOS) will be presented to Philip W. J. Fisher, an executive with Seafarers-contracted Keystone Shipping as well as president of Chas. Kurz & Co,; U.S. Rep. Peter King (R-N.Y.), a longtime backer of the U.S. Merchant Marine; and Emanuel “Manny” Rouvelas, maritime attorney and partner at K&L Gates. The prestigious awards will be presented at a maritime industry dinner and dance at the Sheraton New York Hotel and Towers, New York City, on Nov. 15. Recognition also will be given to American mariners for specific acts of bravery and heroism while at sea. In announcing the recipients, Gen. Kenneth Wykle, USA (ret.), chairman of the USS AOTOS Committee and president of the National Defense Transportation Association, said, “Phil Fisher has devoted virtually his entire career to one company and one industry – the American-flag merchant marine. King is a leader in the ongoing effort to have homeland security funding based on threat analysis and is a strong supporter of the war against international terrorism. Manny Rouvelas is dedicated to promoting and protecting American maritime jobs vital to our national security. It is our honor to honor these three people with diverse shipping connections.” Fisher joined Keystone and its parent company 47 years ago in Philadelphia as chief financial officer. He has spent his career working with maritime labor, the U. S. government, major shippers, multi-national oil, chemical and transportation entities and other sectors of the American shipping industry. He is a member of the boards of other companies and also serves as a trustee or financial advisor for various union plans covering pension, medical and training benefits. These include the SIU, MEBA, the American Radio Association and the Steelworkers. Fisher, known for his philanthropy, is the founder of the Family Charitable Fund that is dedicated to supporting high schools, colleges, universities, and maritime training schools. He has received numerous awards for his charitable work. In 2008, the Maritime Port Council of Greater New York hon- Rep. Peter King Phil Fisher Manny Rouvelas ored him as Man of the Year. In 2013, he received the Philadelphia Pinnacle Award for outstanding achievements and philanthropy. He holds a bachelor’s degree from LaSalle University and a master’s from Drexel University. In addition to being a certified public accountant, he was a staff sergeant in the U.S. Army. He and his wife, Suzanne, have four sons and eight grandchildren. King is serving his 11th term in the U.S. House of Representatives where he is a member of the Homeland Security Committee and chairman of the Subcommittee on Counterterrorism and Intelligence. He also serves on the Financial Services Committee and Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence. During his years in Congress, King has earned a reputation for being well-informed and independent. Following the ravages of Superstorm Sandy, he led the successful fight in Congress to obtain $60.4 billion in emergency funding for the victims of the storm (many of whom were aided by the efforts of SIU crews). In addition to backing the merchant marine, King is a strong supporter of the U. S. military and has fought to improve veterans’ benefits. He is a graduate of St. Francis College, Brooklyn, and the University of Notre Dame Law School. He is a lifelong resident of New York and has lived in Nassau County for more than 40 years. King and his wife, Rosemary, have two adult children and two grandchildren. Rouvelas is a recognized authority in maritime law and for three decades has traveled globally to advise the CEOs of many of the world’s leading shipping companies. He engages in a wide-ranging federal practice representing leading companies and trade associations in the transportation, telecommunications, high technology, hospitality, and manufacturing industries regarding their Washington, D.C., activities and strategies. He often works with the executive branch, Congress, and foreign embassies and governments on international trade and transport matters. He founded the Washington, D.C., office of Preston Gates and guided its growth to more than 140 partners and employees at the time it was merged into K&L Gates on January 1, 2007. Prior to joining K&L Gates, he was coun- sel to the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce and chief counsel to its Merchant Marine and Foreign Commerce Subcommittees where he had lead staff responsibility for the enactment of 32 public laws. Included was major legislation relating to vessel construction and operation, oil spill prevention, vessel traffic systems, recreational boat safety, Coast Guard and Maritime Administration programs. He is a graduate of the University of Washington and received his law degree from Harvard University. He is married to Marilyn and they have two children and four grandchildren. Proceeds from the AOTOS event benefit USS community services abroad for the U.S. Merchant Marine, seafarers of all nations, and the U.S. government and military overseas. SIU President Michael Sacco is this year’s AOTOS dinner chairman. USS, a non-profit agency established in 1942, operates centers in six foreign ports in Europe, Asia and Africa and in the Indian Ocean, and also provides seagoing libraries to American vessels through its affiliate, the American Merchant Marine Library Association. Navy League of the United States Honors TOTE Executive Chiarello The head of Seafarers-contracted Chiarello’s industry involvement inTOTE, Inc. in late June received a presti- cludes: leadership participation with the gious award in Long Beach, Calif. Retail Industry Leaders Association; board TOTE President and CEO Anthony membership with the Transportation InstiChiarello was honored by The Navy tute; board membership with the Coalition League of the United States with the Vin- for Responsible Transportation; membercent T. Hirsch Maritime ship with the Council of Award at the organizaSupply Chain Management tion’s annual convention Professionals; membership and Sea Service awards with the Advisory Board luncheon. of The United States MariThe award, named time Resource Center; and for a patron and past past service with the Global president of the Navy Maritime and TransportaLeague, was presented to tion School at the U.S. MerChiarello in honor of his chant Marine Academy. achievements during his The award comes on the more than 30-year career heels of TOTE’s June 4 acwith maritime organizaceptance of the Next Gentions and “contributions eration Shipping award at to protecting and growNor-Shipping, a forum for ing the privately owned the global maritime indusU.S.–flag merchant fleet, try. Chiarello travelled to for United States national Oslo, Norway, to accept security and economic the award for TOTE’s prosperity.” Marlin Class of 3,100 TEU Anthony Chiarello Chiarello, who joined LNG-powered containerTOTE, Inc. (formerly ships, ordered from General American Shipping Group) in August of Dynamics NASSCO in December 2012. 2010, was previously COO and executive Once completed in 2015, the 764-foot ships vice president of NYK Logistics (Ameri- will operate with SIU crews in the U.S. cas), Inc. Prior to NYK, Chiarello was with Jones Act market between Jacksonville, the AP Moller/Maersk organization for 16 Fla., and San Juan, P.R. The Marlin Class years where he held a variety of leadership reportedly will be the world’s first LNGpositions. powered containerships. August 2013 15048_AUG_2013_LOG.indd 5 Novotny Assumes Command at NMC The command has changed at the Coast year in support of the more than 216,000 who Guard’s National Maritime Center (NMC) – work in the country. the entity tasked with issuing mariners’ creDuring his time as NMC commander, dentials and approving courses such as those Lloyd said he focused on efficiency and reoffered at the SIU’s affiliated school in Piney ducing the length of the credentialing proPoint, Md. cess. He also reached out to the public in In a formal change of command ceremony 2008 after relocating the NMC’s headquarheld at the NMC’s headquarters in Martins- ters from Kearneysville, W.Va. to its current burg, W.Va., Capt. Anthony Lloyd handed location in Martinsburg. the reins over to Capt. Jef“I think there was a frey Novotny. misunderstanding as we Acknowledging the opchanged and what was portunity he’s been given actually going on,” Lloyd as the NMC’s new comsaid. “So I made a big efmander, Novotny said he fort to go out and explain it was honored to take the to people. I’m very proud helm of such an important of how we’ve continued agency. In fact, he said, to increase the knowledge it was something he was of the role of the National continually working to Maritime Center.” achieve. Deputy NMC Com“This was at the top of mander Ike Eisentrout said my list. I’m very excited the change of command to be here and serve as ceremony is an important the commanding officer,” event for all military comCapt. Jeffrey Novotny Novotny said, according mands, adding that the to West Virginia’s Journalceremony is an opportunity News newspaper. “I plan to continue the ex- to show unity and dedication. cellence that’s been going on here.” “The change of command ceremony is Lloyd, meanwhile, said he was proud of a revered military tradition which formally the work that was done during the three years restates the continuity and authority of comhe headed the NMC. mand,” Eisentrout said at the event. “The “It feels great because I knew we did a ceremony is a transfer of total responsibility, great job. We did a lot of improvements,” authority and accountability from one indiLloyd was quoted as saying. vidual to another.” The NMC plays a large role in U.S. Knowing that the NMC would be headed maritime, issuing credentials to every mari- by someone as well regarded as Novotny, ner who works on commercial vessels that Lloyd added, made the bittersweet process carry passengers or freight. According to of handing over the reins that much easier. the Journal-News, the NMC evaluates more “I actually feel better today than I thought than 60,000 merchant mariner credentials per I would,” he said. Seafarers LOG 5 7/24/2013 10:03:15 PM �‘It Still Feels Like Family Here’ IAFF Official Proudly Recalls His Seafaring Father As a child, the old SIU hall on East Baltimore Street “almost seemed like a big playground” to Edward C. Smith, who occasionally went there on weekends with his dad, the late SIU Representative Ed Smith. “When you’re a little kid, it was fun to go to work with your father,” Smith recalled. “It was something to look forward to.” But the son’s appreciation for the union definitely wasn’t limited to those trips to the hall. Calmly but firmly, the elder Smith regularly reminded his son, “Those shoes on your feet and those clothes on your back are because of the SIU.” In some ways, that sentiment helped develop Ed Jr. into a lifelong trade unionist. Local President Edward C. Smith, 42, currently serves as president of Local 36 of the International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF), based in Washington, D.C. He holds the rank of captain – and doesn’t want to figuratively climb the ladder too far, because it would mean he’d have to leave the union. This summer, at the invitation of SIU President Michael Sacco, he reacquainted with the Seafarers during visits to the union-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, located in Piney Point, Md., and to SIU headquarters in Camp Springs, Md. “I’m happy to reconnect with the Seafarers Union after all these years,” Smith stated. “My father (who died in 2006, at age 79) was proud to no end of the Seafarers and I carry that same pride with me today. Even though I’m not a direct member, it still feels like family here.” He added, “I’m so impressed by Piney Point. The SIU has an opportunity to train new members right from the start, and also teach them what the union is all about. That’s phenomenal, that opportunity. It makes me want a national training academy for the Fire Fighters in D.C…. There’s a model to be learned from Piney Point.” Starting Young For Ed Sr., the lure of the sea surfaced at a young age. Born near Boston, he was living in Prince Edward Island, Canada, when he ran away from home at age 15, in 1942. He immediately began sailing on Canadian ships supporting the war effort – not uncommon for boys of that age at the time. He later switched to U.S.-flag ships and joined the SIU in 1947; he’d sail with IAFF Local 36 President Ed Smith (left) visits in Camp Springs, Md., with SIU Exec. VP Augie Tellez, who worked with Smith’s father in Baltimore. 6 Seafarers LOG 15048_AUG_2013_LOG.indd 6 the union for the next 10 years, including voyages as a chief steward. “He was tough, and he could tell you stories about any port because he had been all around the world,” Ed Jr. recalled. “But he ended up in Baltimore in the 1950s. He said when he sailed up the Chesapeake Bay, he fell in love with the sights. He was waiting for a ship and someone offered him a job at the cafeteria in the union hall, and that’s what got him started on the land side. He ended up working 25 years (retiring in 1982) and moved up along the way.” Both President Sacco and SIU Executive Vice President Augie Tellez worked with the elder Smith, and both described him as a dedicated official. Sacco added that Smith also helped facilitate steward department upgrading opportunities in Piney Point. Looking Back Ed Jr. still has many fond memories of his father, including the last 10 years of his life, when they shared a residence. (They were close but, in the son’s words, stubborn – Ed Jr. said his wife sometimes stepped away if the father-son discussions became too animated.) He now laughs at suggestions from 25 years ago when his father urged him to learn Chinese, because he was convinced China would become a superpower and knowing the language would give his son an edge. The younger Smith balked at the time but now appreciates his father’s foresight. He always appreciated his dad’s union pride, too, as well as his helpfulness and insights. “He was so proud of the Seafarers and his merchant marine service,” Smith recalled. “He was always pro-labor on everything and was very active in grassroots politics. He was also very supportive, always. He wasn’t pushy about formal education but he definitely wanted to see me get a career and be successful. As he put it, ‘I don’t care if you’re a trash collector hanging off the back of the truck – just be the best trash man out there.’” Almost Sailed Ironically for the younger Smith, the effectiveness of union representation stopped him from following in his father’s footsteps up the gangway. He had joined a local volunteer fire house near Baltimore “and I just got the bug. It seemed natural and I wanted to make a career out of it.” Then, in 1993, he had been hired as a D.C. fire fighter but got a layoff notice along with around 200 other union members. The IAFF intervened and saved everyone’s jobs; that experience, along with his upbringing, sowed the roots of his activism. SIU President Michael Sacco (left) welcomes Ed Smith to the union-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. “Had I lost my job at that point, I was going to try my sea legs out,” Smith recalled. “That experience was powerful – you feel like there’s a debt owed. Someone stuck up for me, and so as I progress, there’s a debt owed that needs to be repaid.” Looking Ahead After working his way up through the ranks, including time as a shop steward, Smith is in his second term as president of Local 36, which represents approximately 1,700 members. “It’s hard work but it’s good, you know?” he said. The local’s biggest issues are “staffing and resources. It’s just a national trend of reduction of government.” Looking at the big picture for not only Local 36 but the entire labor movement, Smith believes that getting members to participate in union activities is key. “I think the earlier we’re able to educate a member, the better,” he concluded. “And we have to embrace some of the electronic changes out there, to bridge the gap between the generations.” Always a forward thinker, his father undoubtedly would have agreed. The late SIU Representative Ed Smith (above) started sailing during World War II, at age 15. Smith’s union book (left) reflects an SIU career that began in 1947. He retired in 1982. The elder Smith’s scrapbook included this undated photo taken from aboard ship in Cape Town, South Africa. August 2013 7/24/2013 10:03:18 PM �Pictured at McMurdo Station, Antarctica, earlier this year, the tanker Maersk Peary (above) provides fuel to the National Science Foundation-chartered scientific-research vessel R/V Nathanial B. Palmer. The Peary, operated by Maersk Line, Limited, supplied the station with 100 percent of the fuel needed for the year. (U.S. Navy photo by Larry Larsson) In the photo at right USNS Laramie and USS Kearsarge conduct an underway replenishment. Kearsarge is the flagship for the Kearsarge Amphibious Ready Group. (U.S. Navy photo by MC3 Sabrina Fine) Fourth Arm of Defense: Mariners Help Military Stay Ready Wherever, Whenever Called Upon For more than 230 years, the men and women of the United Stated Merchant Marine have risen to meet our country’s call—whenever and wherever needed. SIU members have been an important part of that movement since the union’s founding in 1938. Whether fighting for American Independence, supporting our Armed Forces during conflicts, or sustaining the robust domestic and international trade networks that power our economy, these brave and reliable civilian Seafarers have risen to meet the challenge. That proud heritage continues today as the creativity and ingenuity of civilian mariners plays a significant role in our Armed Forces’ ability to defend our nation and our interests around the globe. The photos of Seafarerers-crewed ships appearing on this page provide a view of some of the tasks mariners perform to help the U.S. Military maintain its constant state of readiness and ability to respond instantaneously to any situation around the globe. Civil service mariners aboard MSC submarine tender USS Frank Cable (above) heave in the aft mooring lines in preparation for getting underway from Sepanggar Naval Base in Malaysia. (U.S. Navy Photo) In the photo at right, steward department mariners prepare lunch aboard the USNS Richard Byrd. (U.S. Navy photo by Roberta Jio) A CIVMAR (above) loads humanitarian goods aboard the HSV-2 Swift, operated by SIU-contracted Sealift, Inc. (U.S. Army Photo by Sgt. Alan Owens) In the photo at right, another mariner guides an Army AH-64D Apache helicopter as it lands aboard the USS Ponce during an exercise. (U.S. Navy Photo by MC1 Jon Rasmussen) August 2013 15048_AUG_2013_LOG_X.indd 7 Seafarers LOG 7 7/26/2013 9:21:28 AM �At Sea And . . . PRESENTATIONS IN OAKLAND – ACU David Dingman (left in photo above, with SIU Asst. VP Nick Celona) recently got his B-seniority book at the hall in Oakland, Calif., while AB Hussen Mohamed (right in photo at left with Patrolman Nick Marrone II) picked up his A-book. Dingman’s recent vessels included the Black Eagle and the Endurance; Mohamed’s included the Green Ridge and Green Bay. TEAMING UP WITH CROWLEY – Representatives from the union and Seafarers-contracted Crowley worked together at a job fair at Fort Eustis, located in Newport News, Va. Pictured from left are Jenny Terpenning of Crowley, SIU Manpower Director Bart Rogers, CWO Pat Deck, Ira Douglas of Crowley and SIU Houston Port Agent Mike Russo. ABOARD OVERSEAS LOS ANGELES – Pictured aboard OSG’s Overseas Los Angeles early last month in Martinez, Calif., are (photo above, from left) SA Abdulsalim Omar, Chief Steward Norman Cox and Chief Cook Roberto Martinez, and (photo at right, from left) ABs Emmanuel Ghansah and Craig Nebbia. 8 Seafarers LOG 15048_AUG_2013_LOG.indd 8 CONGRATULATIONS, GRADUATE! – Deckdepartment upgrader Freddie Taylor recently earned his high school diploma through the long-running program at the union-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education. He received the diploma during the July membership meeting at the school in Piney Point, Md. ABOARD SEALAND INTREPID – Pictured from left to right aboard the Sealand Intrepid following a payoff on the West Coast in early June are AB Almario Sison, Chief Electrician George Rose, SA Prasert Mastrototaro, Bosun Abdulla Alwaseem, Recertified Steward Roderick Clay and AB Tomas Robinson. A-BOOK IN WILMINGTON – AB Ronie Llave (right) recently picked up his A-seniority book at the hall in Wilmington, Calif. Presenting the book is Safety Director Abdul Al Omari. August 2013 7/24/2013 10:03:25 PM �. . . Ashore With The SIU CELEBRATING INDEPENDENCE DAY – The galley gang on the Maersk Michigan helped promote the July 4 spirit with a patriotic feast including a flag cake. Pictured aboard the vessel (from left) are Recertified Steward Edvaldo Viana, Bosun Phil McGeoghegan and Chief Cook Radfan Almaklani. ABOARD HORIZON NAVIGATOR – Keeping their shipmates well-fed aboard the Horizon Navigator are (from left) Chief Steward Antonio Mendez Cruz, SA Argelio Borroto and Recertified Steward Carlos Sanchez. Port Agent Amancio Crespo submitted the photo. B-BOOKS IN HONOLULU – Earlier this year, four Seafarers picked up their respective B-seniority books at the union hall in Honolulu, Hawaii. Patrolman Warren Asp (left in each photo) presented the books to (above, from left to right) Jesus Derramas, Prentice Conley, Ronnel Sugui and Walden Galacgac. SHARING UNION HISTORY – When these retired Seafarers got together at the hall in Mobile, Ala., for an Independence Day celebration, they had lots of sea time and union history between them. From left: George Williamson, oiler, who started sailing in 1950; Tom Bonner, bosun, 1952; Esaw Wright, chief cook, 1941; William Reeves, bosun, 1952; Gerald Beuk, AB, 1975. Thanks to Patrolman Brian Guiry for the photo. August 2013 15048_AUG_2013_LOG.indd 9 Seafarers LOG 9 7/24/2013 10:03:31 PM �SHBP Officials Urge Members to Keep All Beneficiary Information Up to Date The Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan (SHBP) regularly reminds Seafarers about the vital importance of completing and submitting a new SHBP Enrollment-Beneficiary Card whenever a member has a change in his or her family status – such as marriage, divorce, birth of a child, death of a family member, or change in beneficiary. This form enables the Plan to process the member’s Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan benefits correctly and expeditiously. Having an updated card on file is especially important in the event of a member’s death. Death benefits for eligible participants are payable to the beneficiary listed on the most recent beneficiary card on file with the Plan. If a member’s beneficiary has predeceased the member, or if the member does not name a beneficiary, a maximum amount of $1,000 may be payable to the member’s estate. Also, in order for the member’s beneficiary to claim the full amount of the death benefit, the beneficiary must be a close relative. “Close relative” is defined by the Plan as follows: Spouse Child Grandchild Grandfather Grandmother Stepchild Mother Father Stepmother Stepfather Half-sister Half-brother Brother Sister Stepsister Stepbrother Nephew* Niece* (*Niece and nephew are defined as the children of the brother or sister of a deceased employee. A Spouse includes a husband or wife of the same sex As previously reported, the most recent amendments to the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW) led the U.S. Coast Guard to issue a policy letter outlining new security training and endorsement requirements for all vessel personnel. According to that policy letter (No. 12-06), as of Jan. 1, 2014 all mariners must have an STCW security endorsement as part of their merchant mariner credential (MMC) in line with their respective assigned duties. Detailed information is available in a March 28 post in the News section of the SIU website at: as the employee, as long as the marriage between the employee and his or her spouse is recognized as a result of a civil or religious ceremony, or by virtue of the common law.) If the beneficiary named by a member is not a relative on this list, the maximum amount he or she can receive as a death benefit is $1,000. This could greatly reduce any amount payable under the Plan’s Graduated Death Benefit rules. Please check the member portal on the SIU website (www.seafarers.org) to view the beneficiary information that we have on file to see if it is up-to-date. If the information is outdated, members are urged to submit a current SHBP EnrollmentBeneficiary Card as soon as possible. Those cards are available at the union halls. Also, members may call 1-800-252-4674 and request that a card be mailed to them. Plan Offers COBRA Continuation Coverage To Those Who Lose Access to Health Care The Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan (SHBP) would like to notify you of the right to elect to purchase continuation of health coverage if you lose coverage, or experience a reduction in coverage due to certain qualifying events. This continuation of coverage is known as COBRA. Generally, if you are the employee, you will be eligible to purchase COBRA coverage for a certain period of time if you lost coverage because you did not have enough days of covered employment (unless the job was lost due to gross misconduct). If you are the family member of a covered employee, you may also elect COBRA for a certain period of time when the employee loses coverage; or if you are going to lose coverage because of a divorce or the death of the employee; or in the case of a child of an employee, the child reaches an age at which the Plan no longer considers him or her to be a “dependent child.” In the case of a divorce or the death of an employee, you must notify the Plan within 60 days of the divorce or death in order to be eligible to purchase continuation coverage. If you do not notify the Plan in a timely manner, you may not be eligible to receive further coverage. If you are the spouse or dependent child of an employee, you may also elect COBRA if you experience a reduction in coverage when the employee retires. When you retire, if you were eligible for benefits from the SHBP at the time of your retirement, you will be eligible to purchase COBRA continuation coverage for yourself and/or your family members, even if you are eligible for retiree health benefits. This will enable you and/or your family to continue to receive the same level of benefits that you had prior to your retirement for a certain period of time. If you meet the eligibility requirements for retiree health benefits, you will begin to receive those benefits when the COBRA period ends. For more information about continuation coverage rights under COBRA, please refer to the Plan’s “Guide to Your Benefits.” The guide is also available in PDF format on the SIU website, www.seafarers.org, under “Member Benefits-Seafarers Benefit Plans-Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan.” If you have questions regarding this notice or COBRA, contact the Plan at 1 (800) 252-4674. Manpower Issues Reminders Concerning Proper Maintenance of Mariners Credentials Officials in the union’s manpower office are offering members some reminders regarding the maintenance of merchant mariner credentials (MMC). It is especially important that new endorsement stickers are placed on the next empty MMC page and added in order as numbered by the National Maritime Center (NMC). Do NOT place new endorsement stickers on pages that already have endorsements or writing on them. Please read the instructions provided by the NMC prior to adding your stickers. Also, mariners should NEVER cover up anything in their MMC with new stickers. If a mariner puts stickers over a page that already contains a sticker, their MMC is automatically void and he/she cannot ship on it 10 Seafarers LOG 15048_AUG_2013_LOG_X.indd 10 Reminder and Instructions For Obtaining STCW Security Endorsements until a duplicate is issued by the NMC. Manpower officials therefore urge members to take great care when adding new endorsement stickers to their credentials, making sure that they are affixed properly. Anyone requiring assistance should contact their local port agent or the admissions office at the Paul Hall Center. In addition, mariners should be sure that they are aware of what endorsements they currently hold in their MMCs, both international and domestic. This is extremely important when renewing MMCs with the Coast Guard. Be sure to check any newly issued MMC for errors which may occur in issuance. Mariners who notice an error should contact the NMC as soon as possible at 888-427-5662 www.seafarers.org/news/2013/Q1/STCWSecurityEndorsementInfo.htm The same information should be available at all SIU halls. Included with the March 28 post are links to the policy letter; a related FAQ (which also covers information from a separate policy letter); a related sample letter (which also is included at the end of this article); and a link to Coast Guard forms 719B and 719K. Questions may be directed to the NMC at 1-888-IASKNMC (1-888-427-5662), 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday. SIU members who currently have a Vessel Security Officer (VSO) endorsement already comply with the new requirement. Other members will need to secure a letter from their employer (company) or vessel master confirming sea time or performance of security functions equivalent to designated security duties for six months in the previous three years that satisfy the requirements for the new endorsements and then send it to the NMC, or they’ll need to show proof of having completed an approved course that meets the requirements. If demonstrating completion of an approved course, the certificate of completion should be attached to Coast Guard form 719B as an application for an endorsement. If the mariner is also seeking a renewal of an existing document, form 719K (Medical Evaluation Report) would also have to be filed. Alternatively, mariners who commenced sea service prior to Jan. 1, 2012 may apply for the VPDSD endorsement by providing documentation attesting to seagoing service with designated security duties for a period of six months in the preceding three years. These duties may include, but are not limited to, duties specified in the vessel security plan or as assigned on a station bill. Documentation of this service can be a letter or certificate signed by a company official, including a vessel master. This letter is to be presented to the NMC as an attachment to a form 719B. Another method of satisfying the requirement is to secure a letter signed by a company official attesting to performance of security functions considered to be equivalent in scope to shipboard designated duties for a period of six months in the previous three years. The three STCW security endorsements are: n SA – VI/6 – Security Awareness n VPDSD – VI/6 – Vessel Personnel with Designated Security Duties n VSO – VI/5 – Vessel Security Officer Unless VSO has already been placed on the STCW page of a mariner’s MMC, he or she will need to obtain one of the endorsements listed above. Both the SIU and its affiliated school in Piney Point, Md., believe that most mariners will require the VPDSD endorsement. According to the policy letter, mariners will not be charged for adding an STCW endorsement if they apply before Jan. 1, 2014 unless they’re seeking a renewal or a raise in grade of their MMCs, nor will the expiration dates change. Sample Letter for those with Sea Time Prior to January 1, 2012: Commanding Officer U.S. Coast Guard National Maritime Center 100 Forbes Drive Martinsburg, WV 25404 Dear Sir: This letter is to provide documentation that NAME has seagoing service with designated security duties for a period of at least six months during the preceding three years and meets the STCW qualifications for Vessel Personnel with Designated Security Duties. Sincerely, NAME OF MASTER OR COMPANY OFFICIAL August 2013 7/26/2013 9:21:29 AM �8/13 August 2013 15048_AUG_2013_LOG.indd 11 Seafarers LOG 11 7/24/2013 10:03:33 PM �Remembering the U.S. Army Transport Edmund B. Alexander Editor’s note: Beginning in September 2010, the LOG regularly has featured articles by retired mariner Ed Woods, who first shipped out during World War II, as a teenager. Most of the earlier stories were run in two series, concluding in the September 2012 edition. Stand-alone articles were published in the November 2012 and May 2013 issues. Brother Woods recently submitted the following article. W orld War II fighting was over; a cease-fire had been in effect since August 15, 1945. The Japanese and Germans had surrendered. However, President Truman had declared that the official end of World War II would not take effect until December 31, 1946. With the end of the fighting, there was less of a demand for seamen. The need to carry supplies to our armed forces and our allies had decreased manifold. Our wartime tankers and cargo ships were being sold to foreign interests or added to the mothball fleet reserve. I thought myself fortunate to obtain a berth as an engine room oiler aboard the United States Army Transport Edmund B. Alexander (USAT). When I boarded the Alexander a month earlier, I took note that life on this army transport would be a new experience for me. She was a huge ship with a huge crew. My previous experience at sea was limited to oil tankers and cargo ships. The Alexander was twice their size. The Alexander had been built in Belfast, Ireland, for the German Hamburg American Line and was originally named M/S Amerika, the German word for America. When launched in 1905, the Amerika was the biggest and most luxurious passenger liner in the world. Its engine room boasted a twin set of quadruple expansion reciprocating engines – the biggest set of “up and down” engines ever to propel a ship. The Germans immediately put her to service in the very competitive and profitable transatlantic trade. In April 1912, as she was crossing the Atlantic en route Bremerhaven, Germany. We were en route to pick up war to New York City, she passed through an ice field. Her brides and American troops in Southampton, England. Marconi radio operators immediately transmitted an alert to It was a little after 11 o’clock, and I was sitting up in my all ships warning them of the dangerous condition. It is now bunk reading a magazine when a massive explosion rocked believed by some that the Amerika was the first ship to warn the ship. The blast literally lifted the huge ship a few feet the Titanic of the ice floes in its path. (The Amerika being above the waterline. It had to be an enormous explosion to the first to alert other ships to the danger ahead has been lift a 22,000-ton ship into the air. disputed. The Titanic had stronger radio transmitters and the The explosion threw me to the deck. Without a secAmerika requested her radio operators to transmit the locaond thought, I grabbed my lifejacket and, in my skivvies, tion of the ice field to all concerned.) made a dash for the main staircase. (On a passenger ship, Sadly, with the desire to set a transatlantic speed record, the staircase is not called a ladder.) I could feel the ship the Titanic ignored the warning, continued to travel at full vibrating. The noise of the vessel’s alarms and horns was speed, and became deafening. The pasthe most infamous sageways were filled maritime disaster of with crew members “If there was any black market trade in progress, it was news all time. racing to get above to my shipmates and me. The only trade that I was aware of was Later during to the boat deck. No World War I, Great one wanted to be a few cigarettes for a few souvenirs. However, we did hear that Britain and Germany four decks below on the Russians had made counterfeit plates and were flooding the were at war and the E Deck following an occupation zones with the phony money.” - - - Ed Woods Amerika was takexplosion of undeing refuge in Boston termined origin. Harbor. Off shore, When I reached outside American the boat deck, I waters, British naval ships were waiting to sink her once she could hear the captain ordering the lifeboats to be swung entered international waters. out on their davits but not to lower the boats until he gave Shortly later, the United States entered the war and the order. joined forces with the British. The Amerika was still in BosThe man in charge of my boat was a master at arms ton Harbor and under the rules of war, the U.S. confiscated (MA), a ship’s position that was not familiar to me. Assignher. She was later named the United States Army Transport ing him to this lifeboat position was a critical mistake and General Edmund B. Alexander. The years passed by and she could have had serious consequences, if we had been orcontinued to serve the U.S. government in various capacidered to lower our lifeboat. It became obvious that the man, ties. who appeared anxious to perform his assigned duties, knew In 1946, the Alexander was in service carrying troops nothing about lifeboats. I also took notice that the other and war brides between Germany, England and the United seamen assigned to the boat were mainly from the steward States. On September 7 of that year, a night I often wish department and equally unqualified. I could forget, I was aboard the Alexander when it left I carried a lifeboat man certificate I had earned in boot camp. I also had experience in boat drills during the late war. I called out, “Has the drain plug been checked?” The MA in charge admitted he didn’t know. I took the initiative, climbed into the boat and found the bottom of the boat covered with a layer of a soggy mass of mud and other debris that had accumulated over the years. It took me a few minutes to find the plug and insert it. Two men from the steward department arrived at the station carrying a full-size steamer trunk and attempted to load it in the boat. I was waiting for the MA to tell them, “No, you can’t do that,” but he remained mute. I told them it was not a good idea: “We will not have any room to spare once we lower to the next deck and take on more passengers.” They became belligerent and I suggested that they wait until we were ordered to abandon ship. I was hoping an armed ship’s officer would show up and decide the question. The chief electrician appeared asking for help to get a nearby diesel emergency generator on line. Its fuel tank was empty. We located a nearby storeroom containing barrels of kerosene. The chief shouted, “This will do it. It will run on kerosene.” We started a bucket brigade and passed the fuel to the generator. It worked! I noticed a ship off our port beam; it was our sister ship the USAT George Washington standing by to help us. I decided to go down to the engine room to see what I could do. We had been previously ordered to stay away and let the crew on watch handle the situation. When I got down to the engine room, I could see seawater over the floor plates. The chief mate entered the area accompanied by the chief engineer. They conferred with the engineer on duty and then the chief engineer called out, “I want everybody who is not on this watch out of here and up on the boat deck. We don’t know if there are other fractures in the hull and if it becomes necessary to evacuate the area, I want as few crewmen here as possible.” He added, “The bilge pumps are working and that is a good sign.” I returned to the boat deck to see lifeboats being lowered with passengers. I was told it had been decided to transfer all female passengers, mostly army nurses and those who had medical problems, to the USAT Washington. The captain ordered all off-duty crew members to spend the night on the boat deck and to keep our lifejackets on. Within an hour, tugboats came alongside and towed us to the dry dock in Bremerhaven. The following morning, when the dry dock was emptied, the crew went alongside the dock expecting to see a hole or damage to the hull. But there was nothing, not even a dent! It was decided that the damage was internal: machinery in the engine room had been knocked out of alignment, especially the horseshoe bearings in the shaft alley, and the overboard discharge line had ruptured. The latter break proved to be the source of the seawater filling the bilges. In summary: If the Alexander had to be abandoned and the crew and passengers forced to take to the lifeboats, there could have been a serious loss of life. There were far too many unqualified crew members in all departments. Many lacked training and had no U.S. Coast Guard certification. This would not have been the case on a merchant ship where the Coast Guard had the final say to the crew’s qualifications and all factors pertaining to the safety of ship. Only certified crew members would be in charge of lifeboats. It was obvious the Coast Guard did not have the final say on U.S. Army-operated ships. Later, we were told it was a floating mine that hit the ship. The engine crew did not believe this report; we believed it was an internal explosion, since the damage was internal. The engine crew was certain it was an explosive device planted aboard by our former enemies not pleased with losing their war. The government claims today that all records of the Alexander have been destroyed. I need to question our government’s need to destroy historical records. However, the report that a mine hit the Alexander on September 7, 1946 can be found in American Merchant Marine at War, at the website www.usmm.org The ship’s crew was eventfully paid a $150 mine bonus through a wartime program still in effect in 1946. In the days following the explosion, the majority of the crew – mostly stewards and about half the deck crew – were sent back to the States on other ships. With a few exceptions, most of the engine room crew was kept aboard to assist in the repairs. We stayed in Bremerhaven with this skeleton crew for six months for the repair work before returning to the States. During our stay in Bremerhaven, we tried to make the best of our situation. The occupying forces (the U.S., Russia, France, and Great Britain) had declared Martial Law. There were laws forbidding fraternization with the Germans and a late-night curfew was in effect for all service men Continued on next page Undated photo of the USAT Alexander 12 Seafarers LOG 15048_AUG_2013_LOG_X.indd 12-13 Woods is pictured in Germany in 1946 (above) and aboard ship with the White Cliffs of Dover in the background. August 2013 August 2013 Seafarers LOG 13 7/26/2013 9:51:52 AM �His training in lifeboat operations (certificate at left) made Woods uneasy when questionable orders were given following the blast aboard ship. Woods’ discharge (above) from his voyage aboard the Alexander. In an accompanying note, he wrote, “During the war, if your ship was sunk by the enemy and you managed to make it back to shore, the discharge would read: ‘Discharged at Sea’.” Retired Mariner Recalls Teenage Years in Post-War Germany Continued from Page 12 including merchant seamen. There was a seamen’s club located on the main street in Bremerhaven. It offered good American beer by the glass for a few Pfennigs of Allied Script and a three-piece German orchestra for entertainment. The latter’s repertoire was limited to waltzes and operatic music. They valued their job, as they were given cigarettes as gratuities. No German ever wanted money – it was always, “eine Zigarette bitte,” meaning, “a cigarette, please.” Cigarettes were the medium of exchange during our entire stay. We could rent a room at the seamen’s club for the night. This proved to be of value when we were late returning to our ship and concerned about the military police arresting and fining us for being out after curfew. As the weeks went by, some of the crew befriended a few of the local kids and their families, although fraternizing with Germans continued to be illegal. One boy about 13 years old became a valuable asset to our stay. His English was exceptionally good for the time. He was more than willing to show us the sites, interpret for us and tell us about his life during the late war. We were invited to spend nights at his mother’s farmhouse located in the suburbs. In a desire to take in a few sights, we took chances and in groups of three or four, we rode the strassenbahn (the streetcars) out to the rural areas at the ends of the lines. Bremerhaven and its outlying districts had been touched but little by the war. It was said that the allies purposely kept from bombing Bremerhaven and its shipyards in expectation of using the city and its repair facilities once Germany was defeated. However, on weekends when we were able to travel to the much bigger city of Bremen, it was very different. There were only a few buildings standing. Most of the city had been destroyed by allied bombing. What was especially noticeable was that the streets had been swept clean of all debris. The cleanliness of the roadways was in stark contrast to the nearby rubble. We attributed this to the German ethos for cleanliness. We drew advances in our wages in the form of military occupation script (Allied Marks). Periodically, the color and designs on the script would be changed without previous notice. The existing script would be declared null and void. To change the old script for the new, it was necessary to show the amount was not more than one had originally withdrawn. It was said that this sudden change would hamper the black market trade. If there was any black market trade in progress, it was news to my shipmates and me. The only trade that I was aware of was a few cigarettes for a few souvenirs. However, we did hear that the Russians had made counterfeit plates and were flooding the occupation zones with the phony money. This latter explanation was probably true. The final peace treaty had not been signed. The Russians were not cooperating and were creating all sorts of mischief. The Cold War that had started at the Potsdam Conference was continuing. We continued to make the best of our forced stay in Germany. I was young, healthy, able, and willing to put up with the inconveniences. It was a very cold winter. However, even with the nearly primitive living conditions in the city, shore leave was more enjoyable in Bremerhaven than the ports I had visited during the war in the Pacific. In the Pacific, we rarely got ashore for more than a few hours. In the 66 years since I sailed on the Alexander, I have only heard from one crew member, Bernard X. Bovasso, who was aboard the Alexander the night of the explosion. From my e-mail conversations with him over the past few years, I learned that the events he experienced that evening were quite different from mine and more frightful. He has agreed to write and combine what the two of us can remember of that scary night in 1946. Today, at 85 years old, I would love to be a teenager again – reliving the challenges and the excitement of going to sea, visiting foreign ports and enjoying the event of the 1940s. Ed Woods Atlanta, Georgia April 2013 Though the source is unknown, there was at least one news account of the incident aboard the Alexander (which, contrary to the article, was a military transportation vessel rather than a merchant ship). 14 Seafarers LOG 15048_AUG_2013_LOG.indd 14 August 2013 7/24/2013 10:27:28 PM �3 Dispatchers’ Report for Deep Sea June 16, 2013 - July 15, 2013 Total Registered Brick Donation Program Rolls On At Union-Affiliated Paul Hall Center The Brick Donation Program that was launched earlier this year at the union-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education (PHC) in Piney Point, Md., continues to roll along. Offered as a way to honor individuals, groups and organizations within the maritime community, the program makes it possible for people to support the PHC‘s Waterfront Restoration Project while also permanently recognizing individuals and organizations. The donation of a brick comes with an automatic entry in the program’s name-the-park contest. The bricks come in two sizes and may be ordered online at: http://seafarers.org/SIUBricks.htm. The sizes include a traditional-sized brick (4 x 8 inches x 2.25) with three lines of engraving for a donation of $125 and a larger brick (8 x 8 inches x 2.25) with six lines of engraving for a donation of $250. The larger version also may be ordered with a corporate logo and up to three lines of text (subject to space limitations based on the logo) for a donation of $300. If submitting a logo, please note that it cannot be sent through the online order form. Logos (either in EPS, AI, PDF or high-resolution JPG, BMP or TIF format) should be emailed to siubricks@seafarers.org. Please include your contact information. While proceeds from brick donations will be used to help offset some of the costs of the overall restoration (a multi-million dollar endeavor), the program’s larger aim is to beautify PHC’s waterfront area while giving people an opportunity to share memories and honor others in a lasting way. For instance, an engraved brick may be for a particular lifeboat class, an instructor, or a crew that performed a heroic rescue. Brick purchasers may want to honor the memory of a departed loved one, or some other person who helped them along the way. Or, they may want to salute a company or an individual that’s made a difference for the U.S. Merchant Marine. The possibilities are almost limitless, and the engravings do not have to be related to the school. Everyone is encouraged to join in and support this worthwhile project. Questions as well as name-the-park submissions may be emailed to SIUBricks@seafarers.org. September & October 2013 Membership Meetings Piney Point.................*Tuesday: September 3, Monday: October 7 Algonac.........................Friday: September 6, October 11 Baltimore........................Thursday: September 5, October 10 Guam.........................Thursday: September 19, October 24 Honolulu..........................Friday: September 13, October 18 Houston....................Monday: September 9, * Tuesday: October 15 Jacksonville.....................Thursday: September 5, October 10 Joliet............................Thursday: September 12, October 17 All Groups B Total Shipped C Trip Reliefs 0 1 2 4 0 0 2 2 2 1 0 1 4 2 1 0 1 2 1 2 28 2 1 3 12 0 4 14 15 2 2 3 17 8 4 3 0 6 18 2 19 135 22 3 13 27 4 21 101 57 6 15 21 89 29 40 10 6 16 90 3 59 632 9 3 6 12 6 6 17 31 6 2 4 24 38 12 5 2 7 24 3 40 257 1 1 3 6 0 1 6 7 0 4 4 5 9 3 3 0 3 7 2 10 75 Engine Department 0 2 2 0 0 0 1 6 1 9 5 0 1 0 0 10 4 2 16 6 0 14 13 0 0 4 1 5 2 2 2 0 0 9 4 3 5 6 0 9 2 0 2 0 0 1 0 1 1 3 0 16 9 0 3 0 0 6 10 1 110 77 12 2 0 1 7 0 2 8 13 1 1 0 5 3 2 1 0 1 7 0 6 60 7 1 9 11 3 13 31 45 4 10 8 29 18 13 2 6 4 30 1 21 266 6 1 5 4 0 9 18 21 2 3 4 23 25 4 5 2 2 5 4 20 163 2 0 2 4 0 2 3 12 0 2 0 6 1 2 1 0 1 0 1 7 46 0 0 0 3 0 0 1 1 0 0 2 0 4 1 1 0 1 0 0 0 14 Steward Department 1 4 0 0 0 0 0 2 0 12 3 1 0 1 0 7 2 0 18 0 0 12 2 0 1 3 1 5 0 0 3 3 2 15 7 0 3 7 8 15 1 2 1 0 0 3 2 0 1 0 1 15 3 0 2 0 0 20 2 0 138 43 10 0 0 0 6 0 2 5 7 2 2 2 8 8 2 0 1 0 10 1 13 69 5 0 8 16 3 25 30 35 0 10 10 28 22 26 5 6 4 32 2 36 303 2 0 1 2 0 5 12 10 1 4 1 8 12 8 1 0 2 4 2 6 81 0 0 0 3 0 0 1 1 0 0 4 1 4 2 2 0 0 1 0 1 20 22 1 3 6 1 5 12 6 1 0 3 27 14 14 0 0 0 6 0 17 138 12 0 3 3 0 8 7 3 1 0 1 14 11 6 1 2 2 3 1 8 86 Entry Department 3 9 9 0 0 0 1 1 2 2 4 2 0 0 0 0 2 2 3 4 5 0 6 6 0 1 1 1 1 1 0 1 0 5 11 5 1 4 11 2 13 4 0 0 1 0 0 14 1 0 0 1 9 4 0 0 0 2 13 6 22 79 73 5 0 1 0 0 0 1 2 0 2 0 3 2 3 0 0 0 4 0 7 30 2 0 0 0 0 6 5 2 1 1 2 8 4 5 1 0 3 11 0 12 63 29 1 5 9 1 10 23 25 0 0 2 42 24 18 1 0 0 17 1 33 241 17 0 5 6 0 20 15 12 2 1 5 23 41 13 3 8 2 7 1 34 215 479 159 294 1,264 742 356 Port A C Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS 14 2 12 19 3 8 56 32 7 9 15 58 18 25 5 2 10 48 2 36 381 8 3 4 11 7 2 11 23 8 4 2 13 26 4 3 2 5 15 2 23 176 0 2 2 4 0 1 2 2 1 1 1 1 4 2 1 0 1 2 2 3 32 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS 6 2 7 8 1 10 18 22 2 8 3 15 9 11 4 5 1 17 1 12 162 7 1 3 3 0 5 12 12 1 2 3 15 20 5 3 1 1 3 2 13 112 1 0 1 3 0 2 2 3 1 4 0 4 1 1 1 0 0 0 0 3 27 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS 3 0 5 11 3 9 21 17 1 7 5 21 12 10 3 5 0 17 2 25 177 5 0 0 4 0 2 5 6 1 3 4 5 9 3 1 0 0 2 1 2 53 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS 2 0 0 1 0 2 1 1 1 0 0 7 0 4 0 0 0 7 0 7 33 GRAND TOTAL: 753 Mobile..........................Wednesday: September 11, October 16 New Orleans........................Tuesday: September 10, October 15 New York.......................Tuesday: September 3, October 8 Norfolk...........................Thursday: September 5, October 10 Oakland.............................Thursday: September 12, October 17 Philadelphia........................Wednesday: September 4, October 9 Port Everglades..................Thursday: September 12, October 17 San Juan..................................Thursday: September 5, October 10 St. Louis.....................................Friday: September 13, October 18 Tacoma..................................Friday: September 20, October 25 Wilmington............................Monday: September 16, October 21 * Piney Point change created by Labor Day holiday * Houston change created by Columbus Day holiday Each port’s meeting starts at 10:30 a.m. August 2013 15048_AUG_2013_LOG.indd 15 A All Groups B Registered on Beach Deck Department 8 3 1 1 7 4 13 12 2 0 10 1 39 10 24 19 5 6 1 2 12 4 43 11 13 15 13 5 4 2 0 0 4 2 30 9 4 2 31 15 264 123 534 322 123 A All Groups B C Seafarers LOG 15 7/24/2013 10:27:29 PM �Inquiring Seafarer Seafarers International Union Directory Michael Sacco, President Augustin Tellez, Executive Vice President David Heindel, Secretary-Treasurer George Tricker, Vice President Contracts Tom Orzechowski, Vice President Lakes and Inland Waters Dean Corgey, Vice President Gulf Coast Nicholas J. Marrone, Vice President West Coast Joseph T. Soresi, Vice President Atlantic Coast Kermett Mangram, Vice President Government Services Editor’s note: This month’s question was answered by SIU members who are enrolled in upgrading courses at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. Question: What are some of your goals for the rest of this year? HEADQUARTERS 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746 (301) 899-0675 ALGONAC 520 St. Clair River Dr., Algonac, MI 48001 (810) 794-4988 ANCHORAGE 721 Sesame St., #1C, Anchorage, AK 99503 (907) 561-4988 BALTIMORE 2315 Essex St., Baltimore, MD 21224 (410) 327-4900 Larry Genetiano ACU GUAM P.O. Box 3328, Hagatna, Guam 96932 Cliffline Office Ctr. Bldg., Suite 103B 422 West O’Brien Dr., Hagatna, Guam 96910 (671) 477-1350 I’d like to keep upgrading and also get more experience and travel to different places. The course I’m taking starts today. I want to learn more and do more cooking – stuff like that. HONOLULU 606 Kalihi St., Honolulu, HI 96819 (808) 845-5222 HOUSTON 1221 Pierce St., Houston, TX 77002 (713) 659-5152 JACKSONVILLE 5100 Belfort Rd., Jacksonville, FL 32256 (904) 281-2622 JOLIET 10 East Clinton St., Joliet, IL 60432 (815) 723-8002 René Alfaro Asst. Cook Sabrina Long GVA Salvador Deguzman Chief Cook Just to get upgraded and get back to work, and then upgrade again. It’s a busy year. I’m taking galley ops and I want to be a chief cook. That’s where the money is. I want to enhance my career. I’m taking the chief cook class now. I’ll go back on the ship and then come back to school for more classes, but I need to get more experience. Richard Jefferson Chief Cook Keep upgrading, get as much training and possible and get sea time. My time is in for the year, so I’m going to hang out, upgrade, do a little crabbing. George Steube STOS Get my AB ticket and go back to work. I’m taking AB now. It’s important to keep advancing. I had the (sea) time to upgrade and knew I needed to do it. Go to work. I go back to the ship on the 24th of this month, and after that I’ll come back to Piney Point. Every part of upgrading is important, and you really have to pay attention to each step. Pic-From-The-Past MOBILE 1640 Dauphin Island Pkwy, Mobile, AL 36605 (251) 478-0916 NEW ORLEANS 3911 Lapalco Blvd., Harvey, LA 70058 (504) 328-7545 NEW YORK 635 Fourth Ave., Brooklyn, NY 11232 (718) 499-6600 Government Services Division: (718) 499-6600 NORFOLK 115 Third St., Norfolk, VA 23510 (757) 622-1892 OAKLAND 1121 7th St., Oakland, CA 94607 (510) 444-2360 PHILADELPHIA 2604 S. 4 St., Philadelphia, PA 19148 (215) 336-3818 PINEY POINT P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674 (301) 994-0010 PORT EVERGLADES 1221 S. Andrews Ave., Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33316 (954) 522-7984 SANTURCE 1057 Fernandez Juncos Ave., Stop 16 Santurce, PR 00907 (787) 721-4033 ST. LOUIS/ALTON 4581 Gravois Ave., St. Louis, MO 63116 (314) 752-6500 TACOMA 3411 South Union Ave., Tacoma, WA 98409 (253) 272-7774 WILMINGTON 510 N. Broad Ave., Wilmington, CA 90744 (310) 549-4000 All set for a preliminary heat in the soap box derby sponsored by the New Orleans recreation department is 13-year-old Paul Geiger, the SIU-sponsored entry. According to a caption from the August 1955 LOG, Paul finished “out of the money but vowed to be back next year.” If anyone has a vintage union-related photograph he or she would like to share with other Seafarers LOG readers, please send it to the Seafarers LOG, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. Photographs will be returned, if so requested. High-resolution digital images may be sent to webmaster@seafarers.org 16 Seafarers LOG 15048_AUG_2013_LOG.indd 16 August 2013 7/24/2013 10:27:34 PM �Welcome Ashore Each month, the Seafarers LOG pays tribute to the SIU members who have devoted their working lives to sailing aboard U.S.-flag vessels on the deep seas, inland waterways or Great Lakes. Listed below are brief biographical sketches of those members who recently retired from the union. The brothers and sisters of the SIU thank those members for a job well done and wish them happiness and good health in the days ahead. DEEP SEA MOHSIN ALI Brother Mohsin Ali, 66, became an SIU member in 1970. He initially worked aboard the Erickson. Brother Ali was born in Saudi Arabia. He attended classes in 1988 and 2001 at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. Brother Ali sailed in the deck department. His most recent trip to sea was on the Horizon Hunter. Brother Ali makes his home in San Francisco. ROBYN ANDERSON Sister Robyn Anderson, 65, joined the union in 1999. The steward department member first sailed on the Wilson. Sister Anderson upgraded in 2002 at the Piney Point school. She most recently shipped aboard the Sgt. John Chapman. Sister Anderson calls Naples, Fla., home. ABDULRUB ATIAH Brother Abdulrub Atiah, 60, started sailing with the Seafarers in 1977. He was originally employed on the Overseas Ulla. Brother Atiah was born in Yemen and shipped in the engine department. He enhanced his skills often at the maritime training center in Piney Point, Md. Brother Atiah’s last ship was the Elizabeth. He is a resident of Brooklyn, N.Y. JAMES BOSS Brother James Boss, 68, joined the SIU ranks in 1970. His first ship was the Longview Victory; his most recent, the Manunalei. Brother Boss worked in the steward department. He upgraded frequently at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Boss resides in Seattle. LEOPOLDO EMNACE Brother Leopoldo Emnace, 67, signed on with the SIU in 1980. He initially shipped on the Trans Columbia as a member of the deck department. In 2010, he took advantage of educational opportunities available at the unionaffiliated school. He concluded his career aboard the Maersk Idaho. Brother Emnace settled in Bedminster, N.J. ROBERT FLESEY Brother Robert Flesey, 66, was born in Pennsylvania. He began sailing with the union in 1990. Brother August 2013 15048_AUG_2013_LOG.indd 17 Flesey’s first ship was the Cape Mohican; his most recent was the RJ Pfeiffer. The engine department member attended classes often at the maritime training center. Brother Flesey lives in San Marcos, Calif. RONALD FLUKER Brother Ronald Fluker, 63, donned the SIU colors in 1968. He originally sailed aboard the Jacksonville. Brother Fluker shipped in the steward department. He upgraded often at the Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md. Brother Fluker’s most recent trip was on the USNS Capella. He was born in New Orleans and now resides in Oakland, Calif. JOSEPH OLSON Brother Joseph Olson, 65, joined the Seafarers in 1964 while in the port of New York. The deck department member’s earliest trip was on the Portmar. Brother Olson enhanced his skills on two occasions at the Piney Point school. His final ship was the Global Sentinel. Brother Olson makes his home in Rochester, N.H. LEXIE SHAW Brother Lexie Shaw, 64, began sailing with the union in 1966. He initially shipped aboard the Del Sud. Brother Shaw sailed in the engine department. He attended classes frequently at the SIU-affiliated school. Brother Shaw was last employed on the Pfc. Eugene A. Obregon. He is a resident of Bayonne, N.J. HAMIN SIALANA Brother Hamin Sialana, 65, joined the SIU in 1990. His first trip was aboard the Independence. Brother Sialana upgraded in 1995 and 2001 at the maritime training center in Piney Point, Md. The steward department member was born in Indonesia. He last worked on the Pearl. Brother Sialana calls Brooklyn, N.Y., home. DOUGLAS SWETS Brother Douglas Swets, 65, became an SIU member in 1989. His earliest trip was on the Independence; his most recent was aboard the Singapore. Brother Swets sailed in the steward department. He often took advantage of educational opportunities available at the Piney Point school. He lives in Oakland, Calif. JOHN YATES Brother John Yates, 65, signed on with the Seafarers in 1989 while in Mobile, Ala. He first worked on the Pfc. Dewayne T. Williams. A member of the deck department, Brother Yates was last employed aboard the Seabulk Power. Brother Yates resides in Pensacola, Fla. member of the engine department. Brother Hanlon’s first trip was with G&H Towing. He attended classes in 2008 at the union-affiliated school. Brother Hanlon last worked aboard the Pride. He is a resident of Goliad, Texas. DONALD LARSEN Brother Alex Cheek, 65, started sailing with the union in 1980. The deck department member’s earliest trip was on the Puget Sound. In 2001, he enhanced his skills at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Cheek’s final ship was the Chemical Trader. He makes his home in Grass Valley, Calif. Brother Donald Larsen, 62, began sailing with SIU in 1987. Brother Larsen originally worked on a Steuart Transportation Company vessel. He frequently took advantage of educational opportunities at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Larsen sailed as a deck department member. His most recent trip was with Penn Maritime Inc. Brother Larsen settled in Kirbyville, Texas. TIMOTHY GEGENHEIMER TED MIDGETT Brother Timothy Gegenheimer, 61, began shipping with the SIU in 1976. He primarily sailed with Crescent Towing of New Orleans, including many years as a captain. Brother Gegenheimer upgraded in 2012 at the maritime training center in Piney Point. He lives in his native city, New Orleans. Brother Ted Midgett, 62, signed on with the union in 1981. His earliest trip was with Stc Little Curtis Company. Brother Midgett is a native of North Carolina. He sailed in the engine department. Brother Midgett was last employed with Piney Point Transportation. He lives in Wanchese, N.C. INLAND ALEX CHEEK DANIEL HANLON Brother Daniel Hanlon, 57, joined the SIU in 1986. He sailed as a GENE PAYNE Brother Gene Payne, 62, donned the SIU colors in 1974. He initially worked with Norfolk & Baltimore Steamship Company. Brother Payne was a deck department member. He was born in Norfolk, Va. He upgraded his seafaring abilities on two occasions. Brother Payne’s most recent trip was aboard an Allied Towing vessel. He resides in Chesapeake, Va. DONALD TOBY Brother Donald Toby, 68, became an SIU member in 1972. Brother Toby first worked with Brooklyn East District Terminal. In 1982, he enhanced his skills at the Piney Point school. Brother Toby was last employed with New York Cross Harbor Railroad. He makes his home in Oceanside, N.Y. HARRY TOOHEY Brother Harry Toohey, 68, started sailing with the union in 1992. The engine department member sailed mainly with Allied Towing Company. Brother Toohey frequently upgraded at the Piney Point school. He lives in Virginia Beach, Va. This Month In SIU History Editor’s note: The following items are reprinted from previous editions of the Seafarers LOG. 1948 The SIU smashed through with a precedentmaking pattern for the maritime industry Aug. 6. On that date, New Orleans Agent Earl Shepard, acting as chairman of the Negotiating Committee, signed a two-year contract with the Mississippi Shipping Company for the highest wages ever achieved in the history of maritime. The contract will expire Sept. 30, 1950 and guarantees a wage increase of $12.50 across the board for every rating, with the exception of bosun, for whom the Negotiating Committee secured a $25 raise. 1954 The SIU and other maritime groups have scored a surprise upset victory to end a sevenyear fight for a permanent “50-50” law. The bill now awaits President Dwight D. Eisenhower’s signature. The success of the “50-50” bill climaxes a seven-year fight by the SIU for the principle that American-flag shipping is entitled to at least half of cargoes paid for by the U.S. taxpayer. From now on, once this new bill is signed into law, the principle of “50-50” will be firmly fixed in future maritime dealings. 1964 The SIU has called for a new national mari- time policy to provide the nation with a balanced American-flag merchant marine which would carry at least half of this country’s overseas cargoes, as do the national-flag fleets of other major maritime nations of the world. The SIU’s call was submitted to the members of the Maritime Advisory Committee which was created by President Lyndon Johnson to consider ways to strengthen the U.S. Merchant Marine. The SIU noted in its presentation that Russia is building up its merchant armada with awesome speed and urged that the U.S. do the same. “If we cannot compete with the Russians on the high seas then we had best forget about competing with them in space, on the battlefields or anywhere else,” the SIU said. 1966 The Vietnam War has put great pressure on the existing SIU manpower, but the SIU has always been able to provide enough men to man the needed ships. Atlantic Coast Vice President Earl Shepard has been assigned the responsibility of meeting SIU Atlantic and Gulf Coast manpower needs. The SIU, through its extensive upgrading and training programs, is able to provide a pool of manpower to meet sudden crises, such as the Vietnam call-up. The break-out of vessels from the reserve fleet has meant that more jobs are available to SIU men and the union has effectively filled them. Seafarers LOG 17 7/24/2013 10:27:37 PM �Final Departures DEEP SEA JAMES ELBE Pensioner James Elbe, 75, passed away Jan. 14. Brother Elbe became an SIU member in 1982. His first voyage was on the Virgo. Brother Elbe was born in Bloomsburg, Pa. and shipped in the deck department. Prior to his retirement in 2010, he sailed aboard the Cyprine. Brother Elbe made his home in Willoughby, Ohio. ERIC JOHNSTON Pensioner Eric Johnston, 91, died Jan. 28. He joined the Seafarers in 1966. Brother Johnston initially sailed with Bloomfield Steamship Company. The deck department member was last employed aboard the Liberator. Brother Johnston retired in 1986 and called Oxnard, Calif., home. FRANK KRAEMER Pensioner Frank Kraemer, 71, passed away Jan. 5. Born in New Orleans, he began sailing with the union in 1968. Brother Kraemer first sailed with CSX Lines. He was an engine department member. Brother Kraemer most recently shipped aboard the USNS Altair. He went on pension in 2004. Brother Kraemer was a resident of Metairie, La. KARL LEITER Brother Karl Leiter, 54, died Dec. 26. He began sailing with the SIU in 1989 while in Honolulu. Brother Leiter was originally employed aboard the Independence. He was born in Toronto and primarily worked in the engine department, in addition to working as a patrolman. Brother Leiter’s last trip was on the Horizon Reliance. He called Jacksonville, Fla., home. CARL LINEBERRY Pensioner Carl Lineberry, 74, passed away Jan. 7. Brother Lineberry first donned the SIU colors in 1958 while in the port of New York. The deck department member was born in Alabama. Brother Lineberry’s first trip was aboard the Del Aires. His final ship was the Stonewall Jackson. Brother Lineberry became a pensioner in 2001. He lived in Daphne, Ala. WILTON STOKES Pensioner Wilton Stokes, 82, died Jan. 12. Brother Stokes started 18 Seafarers LOG 15048_AUG_2013_LOG.indd 18 shipping with the Seafarers in 1951 in the port of Baltimore. His first vessel was the Frank E. Spencer; his last, the Sgt. William R. Button. Brother Stokes was born in Alabama and shipped in the engine department. He went on pension in 1991 and settled in Mobile, Ala. RALPH TAYLOR Pensioner Ralph Taylor, 75, passed away Jan. 14. Born in Mississippi, he began sailing with the union in 1961. Brother Taylor first sailed with Interocean American Shipping Corporation. He was a deck department member. Brother Taylor most recently shipped aboard the Carolina. He started collecting his retirement compensation in 1993. Brother Taylor was a resident of Enterprise, Miss. INLAND GEORGE CARLTON Brother George Carlton, 68, died Dec. 28. He signed on with the SIU in 1969. Brother Carlton’s earliest trip was with Carolina Towing Company. He last worked aboard a Steuart Transportation Company vessel. Brother Carlton was a deck department member. He resided in Wilmington, N.C. NORMAN ERLIN Pensioner Norman Erlin, 79, passed away Jan. 23. He started sailing with the union in 1964. Brother Erlin initially sailed on a Mobile Towing Company vessel. He was a member of the engine department. Brother Erlin’s last voyage was with Allied Transportation Company. He retired in 1996 and made his home in Land O’Lakes, Fla. LARRY GASTON Pensioner Larry Gaston, 66, died Jan. 15. Brother Gaston was a Texas native. He joined the SIU in 1977. Brother Gaston first sailed on the Sabine. The deck department member’s final trip was with Crowley Towing of Jacksonville. Brother Gaston began receiving his pension in 2002. He called Houston home. JAMES LARKIN Brother James Larkin, 62, passed away Dec. 5. He began sailing with the union in 1969. Brother Larkin initially worked with Dixie Carriers. He was born in Osceola Mills, Pa. The deck department member most recently shipped on a Penn Maritime Inc. vessel. Brother Larkin settled in Inverness, Fla. NAD MIYASATO Pensioner Nad Miyasato, 61, died Jan. 16. Brother Miyasato became an SIU member in 1980. He sailed with Allied Transportation Company for the duration of his career. Brother Miyasato was born in Honolulu and worked in the steward department. He went on pension in 2009 and resided in Grandy, N.C. BOBBY SCHEIDER Pensioner Bobby Scheider, 68, passed away Jan. 14. Brother Scheider signed on with the SIU in 1990. One of his earliest trips was with OSG Ship Management. Brother Scheider was born in Florida and sailed in the deck department. Before his retirement in 2011, he worked aboard the Innovation. Brother Scheider lived in Lake City, Fla. WILLIAM THOM Pensioner William Thom, 65, died Jan. 1. Brother Thom first donned the SIU colors in 1970. He was a member of the deck department. Brother Thom first signed on at Brooklyn Eastern District Terminal. His final ship was the USNS Potomac. Brother Thom became a pensioner in 2009. He was a resident of Brooklyn, N.Y. DAVID WADE Brother David Wade, 48, passed away Jan. 16. He started shipping with the union in 1997. Brother Wade mainly sailed with Penn Maritime Inc. He was a member of the deck department. Brother Wade made his home in Cordova, Tenn. DAVID ZEIGLER Pensioner David Zeigler, 58, died Jan. 22. Brother Zeigler began shipping with the union in 1990. He primarily worked with Crowley Towing & Transportation of Jacksonville. Brother Zeigler sailed in the deck department. He retired in 2010 and called Dunnellon, Fla., home. GREAT LAKES STANLEY SZEJBACH Pensioner Stanley Szejbach, 80, passed away Jan. 28. Brother Szejbach was a Michigan native. He joined the union in 1989 and sailed on the Steel T. Crapo. Brother Szejbach worked in the engine department. He last sailed aboard the Alpena. Brother Szejbach started collecting his pension in 1998. He lived in Alpena, Mich. DAVID WILLIS Pensioner David Willis, 84, died Jan. 10. Brother Willis became an SIU member in 1963. He was employed with Great Lakes Associates. Brother Willis was born in Indiana and sailed in both the deck and engine departments. His final trip was on the Kinsman Independent. Brother Willis went on pension in 1994 and made his home in Wisconsin. Editor’s note: The following brothers, all former members of the National Maritime Union (NMU), have passed away. ANTONIO ALVAREZ Pensioner Antonio Alvarez, 93, died Jan. 1. Brother Alvarez was a native of Spain. He became a pensioner in 1968 and called New Jersey home. FRANKLIN ARNOLD Pensioner Franklin Arnold, 88, passed away Jan. 20. Brother Arnold, a native of New Orleans, began collecting his pension in 1971. He resided in Charlotte, N.C. settled in St. Clair, Mich. WILLIAM MARTEL Pensioner William Martel, 91, died Jan. 2. Brother Martel, a Biddeford, Maine, native, went on pension in 1969. He called North Waterboro, Maine, home. MARIANO MARTINEZ Pensioner Mariano Martinez, 76, passed away Nov. 2. Born in Puerto Rico, Brother Martinez started receiving his retirement compensation in 2000. He continued to live in Puerto Rico. MOHAMED PADY Pensioner Mohamed Pady, 78, died Nov. 26. Brother Pady was born in Yemen. He began collecting compensation for his retirement in 1990. Brother Pady made his home in New York. CARLOS BROWN Pensioner Carlos Brown, 78, died Jan. 17. Born in Honduras, Brother Brown went on pension in 1995. He lived in New Orleans. AUBREY PHILPOTT Pensioner Aubrey Philpott, 86, passed away Jan. 8. Born in California, Brother Philpott started receiving his pension in 1985. He lived in Los Angeles. JULIO CLOTTER Pensioner Julio Clotter, 75, passed away Jan. 24. Brother Clotter was born in Santa Rosa, Honduras. He retired in 2007 and was a resident of New Orleans. DOMENICO RIVIECCIO Pensioner Domenico Rivieccio, 91, died Dec. 27. Brother Rivieccio, a native of Italy, began collecting his pension in 1986. He continued to make his home in Italy. ANTONIO ESCOBAR Pensioner Antonio Escobar, 90, died Dec. 11. Born in Honduras, Brother Escobar became a pensioner in 1988. He called San Pablo, Calif., home. ERNESTO SAYON Pensioner Ernesto Sayon, 94, passed away Jan. 4. Brother Sayon was born in the Philippines. He went on pension in 1966. Brother Sayon made his home in New York. ADOLPH EVERETT Pensioner Adolph Everett, 89, passed away Dec. 28. Brother Everett was born in LaCeiba, Honduras. He retired in 1987 and resided in Passaic City, N.J. GORDON SIMPSON Pensioner Gordon Simpson, 91, died Nov. 2. Brother Simpson was born in Missouri. He became a pensioner in 1983 and settled in North Charleston, S.C. HERMAN GOODWIN Pensioner Herman Goodwin, 87, died Jan. 19. Brother Goodwin was a South Carolina native. He started receiving his retirement pay in 1988. Brother Goodwin made his home in Woodbridge, Va. ERNESTO SOLOMON Pensioner Ernesto Solomon, 78, passed away Jan. 12. Brother Solomon was a native of Honduras. He retired in 1989 and resided in Port Arthur, Texas. IVAR JOHANSSON Pensioner Ivar Johansson, 92, passed away Dec. 5. Brother Johansson was a native of Sweden. He began receiving his pension in 1983. Brother Johansson lived in Leesburg, Fla. BENJAMIN JOHNSON Pensioner Benjamin Johnson, 78, died Jan. 16. Brother Johnson, a native of Georgia, started collecting his retirement compensation in 1990. He lived in Garden City, Ga. STUART MACINTOSH Pensioner Stuart MacIntosh, 85, passed away Jan. 23. The Michigan-born mariner became a pensioner in 1967. Brother MacIntosh PABLO TORRES Pensioner Pablo Torres, 79, died Jan. 24. Brother Torres went on pension in 1998. He was a resident of New Jersey. SYLVESTER WINGERTER Pensioner Sylvester Wingerter, 80, passed away Jan. 25. Born in New Orleans, Brother Wingerter started receiving his retirement pay in 1995. He called Montgomery, La., home. Name Colon, Raf ael Garcia, Jose McKinnon, George Thabet, Mohamed Tucano, Joe Walczak, Casimir Wnuk, Henry Age 92 89 83 81 88 84 87 DOD Dec. 1 Dec. 17 Dec. 31 Dec. 3 Dec. 2 Jan. 29 Dec. 3 August 2013 7/24/2013 10:27:39 PM �Digest of Shipboard Union Meetings AMERICAN PHOENIX (Seabulk), May 1 – Chairman Samuel Duah, Secretary Pedro R. Mena, Educational Director Kelly L. Mayo, Deck Delegate Edward Gavagan, Engine Delegate Augusto Rodil, Steward Delegate Cesar Avila. Chairman discussed new medical procedures with the crew. Secretary would like union to check to see if stores could be preordered. Educational director talked about keeping documents current and new requirements for STCW. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew would like new refrigerator. HORIZON KODIAK (Horizon Lines), May 19 – Chairman Garry D. Walker, Secretary Cynthia L. Caster, Educational Director Christopher L. Earnhart, Deck Delegate Daniel Lovely, Engine Delegate Gebar Ogbe, Steward Delegate Strode Call. Bosun emphasized the importance of keeping dues up-to-date and donating to SPAD, the union’s voluntary political action fund. He reminded crew members to beware of moose in the Port of Anchorage. “They are dangerous and will stomp on you.” Secretary advised members to give themselves extra time to get annual physical or drug test. Educational director urged all mariners to keep necessary documents current. He also suggested crew take advantage of courses available at maritime training center in Piney Point. Treasurer reported on ship’s fund and how much more is needed to have satellite TV installed aboard vessel. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew members made a motion to restore “Payoff, day off.” Vote of thanks was given to the steward department for excellent food. Deck department was thanked also for construction of new partitions in garbage room. Request was made for crew to clean lint tray in laundry room and notify electrician of lights that need to be replaced. Next ports: Tacoma, Wash., Anchorage, Alaska and Kodiak, Alaska. HORIZON SPIRIT (Horizon Lines), May 19 – Chairman Hussein M. Mohamed, Secretary Glenn A. Taar, Educational Director Roy S. Frett, Deck Delegate Alfred Polk. Chairman announced payoff at sea May 21. He thanked everyone for doing a good job and reminded them to contribute to SPAD. Educational director reminded fellow members about importance of upgrading at Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md. Treasurer reported $145 in ship’s fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew members expressed their gratitude to steward department for a job well done. Next port: Honolulu. INDEPENDENCE II (Crowley), May 5 – Chairman Boguslaw Mikula, Secretary Rocky D. Dupraw, Educational Director Archie D. Eldridge, Steward Delegate Thomas Cyprus. Chairman thanked crew for a smooth voyage with no LTA. Secretary expressed his gratitude for keeping ship clean. He reminded crew members that stateroom must be cleaned and inspected prior to signing off. Everyone was encouraged to take advantage of Paul Hall Center. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Communication from patrolman pertaining to CHSi, physical, drug screen and portal set-up was read. Crew thanked steward department for stellar performance. Recommendations were made to lower retirement age and get new linen. Next ports: Beaumont, Texas, Galveston, Texas, Brunswick, Ga. and Charleston, S.C. MAERSK GEORGIA (Maersk Line, Limited), May 19 – Chairman Konstantinos Prokovas, Secretary Darryl K. Goggins, Educational Director Christopher Devonish, Deck Delegate Frank Vogler, Engine Delegate Romel Reyes, Steward Delegate Christopher Coston. Bosun announced payoff in Newark, N.J. and thanked crew for a safe voyage. “This is one of the best crews I’ve worked with.” Mariners Seafarer Earns Safety Award OMU Arthur “Buddy” Marshall (right) recently earned a cash award as part of the ongoing safety program conducted by SIU-contracted Maersk Line, Limited. Chief Engineer Dicky Collins (left) presented the award aboard the Alliance Richmond. Marshall was credited for setting “an exceptional example of crew safety awareness. He is dedicated to his own safety and the safety of his fellow shipmates at all times.” In a specific recent instance, Marshall helped report and repair a faulty grinder guard. August 2013 15048_AUG_2013_LOG.indd 19 The Seafarers LOG attempts to print as many digests of union shipboard minutes as possible. On occasion, because of space limitations, some will be omitted. Ships’ minutes first are reviewed by the union’s contract department. Those issues requiring attention or resolution are addressed by the union upon receipt of the ships’ minutes. The minutes are then forwarded to the Seafarers LOG for publication. With Seafarers Aboard HSV2 Swift Pictured aboard the Sealift, Inc.-operated HSV2 Swift are (from left) Chief Mate Joe Zayac, Capt. Rhett Mann, QMED Ashley Carmichael, Bosun Rick Fugit, AB Jarred Moylan and Chief Engineer Andrew Powers. The high-speed vessel supports operations of the U.S. Military Sealift Command. were reminded to leave rooms clean and supplied with fresh linen. Educational director reminded crew to enhance skills at Piney Point school and suggested members check out changes to SIU website. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Seafarers suggested increasing pension payments. HORIZON TRADER (Horizon Lines), May 5 – Chairman Isaac Vega Mercado, Secretary Kevin M. Dougherty, Educational Director Roger L. Dillinger, Steward Delegate Tracey Newsome. Chairman went over ship’s itinerary and notified crew of payoff in Jacksonville, Fla., on June 20. Educational director urged members to stay up-to-date on new requirements. Treasurer reported about $5,000 in ship’s fund, which will be used to replace satellite dome. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Recommendations were made regarding pension benefits and SMPPP. Mariners would like satellite TV in each crew room. Crew members wished DEU Angel Bruno the best on retirement after 43 year with the SIU. Next ports: Jacksonville, Fla., San Juan, P.R. and Philadelphia. MAERSK KENTUCKY (Maersk Line, Limited), May 5 – Chairman William M. Richards, Secretary Michael M. Amador, Educational Director Brian J. Sengelaub, Deck Delegate Peter Wojcikowski. Chairman thanked entire crew for a safe voyage. He stated the trip was hot due to the AC being broken but chief engineer has ordered parts to fix it. Secretary thanked mariners for keeping ship clean. Crew members departing vessel were asked to leave rooms how they would want to find them. Educational director thanked all for their professionalism and urged them to stay current with documents. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew thanked steward department. Request was made for a microwave in the crew mess. Next port: Newark, N.J. MAERSK MONTANA (Maersk Line, Limited), May 25 – Chairman Domingo Leon, Secretary Vernon S. Thibodeaux, Educational Director Grant W. Schuman, Steward Delegate Fernando Lopes. Bosun reported a smooth voyage and thanked crew for keeping ship clean. Secretary expressed his gratitude for fellow mariners’ professional attitudes. Educational director talked about the importance of upgrading at Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew was reminded to close washing machine and dryer doors. PELICAN STATE (Crowley), May 17 – Chairman Raymond A. Tate, Secretary Milton M. Yournett, Educational Director Oscar Garcia, Engine Delegate Emanuel Paul, Steward Delegate William Kane. Bosun discussed annual physical exams, Coast Guard exams and functional capacity evaluations. He warned crew members “don’t let bad timing cost you your employment.” Secretary encouraged mariners to enhance seafaring abilities at the maritime training center. Educational director reminded fellow members to keep an eye on document expiration dates, allow plenty of time for renewals, and also head to Piney Point to upgrade. Treasurer noted $5,000 in ship’s fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Request was made for new gym equipment and iPod station. Vote of thanks was given to the steward department. Next port: Corpus Christi, Texas. WASHINGTON EXPRESS (Crowley), May 26 – Chairman Charles J. Hill, Secretary Robert E. Wilcox, Educational Director Nicholas A. Vieira, Deck Delegate Barry Hamm, Engine Delegate Alex Oliva, Steward Delegate John Plakas. Bosun reported that captain will issue letter for security compliance for Coast Guard endorsement. Secretary thanked crew for their help maintaining cleanliness of living areas. Educational director urged mariners to renew documents early and reminded them of new CHSi procedures. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Steward department was thanked for good food and service. Next ports: Savannah, Ga. and Norfolk, Va. Seafarers LOG 19 7/24/2013 10:58:31 PM �Know Your Rights FINANCIAL REPORTS. The Constitution of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters makes specific provision for safeguarding the membership’s money and union finances. The constitution requires a detailed audit by certified public accountants every year, which is to be submitted to the membership by the secretary-treasurer. A yearly finance committee of rank-and-file members, elected by the membership, each year examines the finances of the union and reports fully their findings and recommendations. Members of this committee may make dissenting reports, specific recommendations and separate findings. TRUST FUNDS. All trust funds of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters are administered in accordance with the provisions of various trust fund agreements. All these agreements specify that the trustees in charge of these funds shall equally consist of union and management representatives and their alternates. All expenditures and disbursements of trust funds are made only upon approval by a majority of the trustees. All trust fund financial records are available at the headquarters of the various trust funds. SHIPPING RIGHTS. A member’s shipping rights and seniority are protected exclusively by contracts between the union and the employers. Members should get to know their shipping rights. Copies of these contracts are posted and available in all union halls. If members believe there have been violations of their shipping or seniority rights as contained in the contracts between the union and the employers, they should notify the Seafarers Appeals Board by certified mail, return receipt 20 Seafarers LOG 15048_AUG_2013_LOG.indd 20 requested. The proper address for this is: Augustin Tellez, Chairman Seafarers Appeals Board 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 Full copies of contracts as referred to are available to members at all times, either by writing directly to the union or to the Seafarers Appeals Board. CONTRACTS. Copies of all SIU contracts are available in all SIU halls. These contracts specify the wages and conditions under which an SIU member works and lives aboard a ship or boat. Members should know their contract rights, as well as their obligations, such as filing for overtime (OT) on the proper sheets and in the proper manner. If, at any time, a member believes that an SIU patrolman or other union official fails to protect their contractual rights properly, he or she should contact the nearest SIU port agent. EDITORIAL POLICY — THE SEAFARERS LOG. The Seafarers LOG traditionally has refrained from publishing any article serving the political purposes of any individual in the union, officer or member. It also has refrained from publishing articles deemed harmful to the union or its collective membership. This established policy has been reaffirmed by membership action at the September 1960 meetings in all constitutional ports. The responsibility for Seafarers LOG policy is vested in an editorial board which consists of the executive board of the union. The executive board may delegate, from among its ranks, one individual to carry out this responsibility. PAYMENT OF MONIES. No monies are to be paid to anyone in any official capacity in the SIU unless an official union receipt is given for same. Under no circumstances should any member pay any money for any reason unless he is given such receipt. In the event anyone attempts to require any such payment be made without supplying a receipt, or if a member is required to make a payment and is given an official receipt, but feels that he or she should not have been required to make such payment, this should immediately be reported to union headquarters. CONSTITUTIONAL RIGHTS AND OBLIGATIONS. Copies of the SIU Constitution are available in all union halls. All members should obtain copies of this constitution so as to familiarize themselves with its contents. Any time a member feels any other member or officer is attempting to deprive him or her of any constitutional right or obligation by any methods, such as dealing with charges, trials, etc., as well as all other details, the member so affected should immediately notify headquarters. EQUAL RIGHTS. All members are guaranteed equal rights in employment and as members of the SIU. These rights are clearly set forth in the SIU Constitution and in the contracts which the union has negotiated with the employers. Consequently, no member may be discriminated against because of race, creed, color, sex, national or geographic origin. If any member feels that he or she is denied the equal rights to which he or she is entitled, the member should notify union headquarters. SEAFARERS POLITICAL ACTIVITY DONATION (SPAD). SPAD is a separate segregated fund. Its proceeds are used to further its objects and purposes including, but not limited to, furthering the political, social and economic interests of maritime workers, the preservation and furthering of the American merchant marine with improved employment opportunities for seamen and boatmen and the advancement of trade union concepts. In connection with such objects, SPAD supports and contributes to political candidates for elective office. All contributions are voluntary. No contribution may be solicited or received because of force, job discrimination, financial reprisal, or threat of such conduct, or as a condition of membership in the union or of employment. If a contribution is made by reason of the above improper conduct, the member should notify the Seafarers International Union or SPAD by certified mail within 30 days of the contribution for investigation and appropriate action and refund, if involuntary. A member should support SPAD to protect and further his or her economic, political and social interests, and American trade union concepts. NOTIFYING THE UNION — If at any time a member feels that any of the above rights have been violated, or that he or she has been denied the constitutional right of access to union records or information, the member should immediately notify SIU President Michael Sacco at headquarters by certified mail, return receipt requested. The address is: Michael Sacco, President Seafarers International Union 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746. August 2013 7/24/2013 10:27:41 PM �Paul Hall Center Upgrading Course Information The following is a schedule of courses at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md., for the next few months. All programs are geared toward improving the job skills of Seafarers and promoting the American maritime industry. Please note that this schedule may change to reflect the needs of the membership, the maritime industry and—in times of conflict—national security. Students attending any of these classes should check in the Saturday before their course’s start date. The courses listed here will begin promptly on the morning of the start dates. For classes ending on a Friday, departure reservations should be made for Saturday. Seafarers who have any questions regarding the upgrading courses offered at the Paul Hall Center may call the admissions office at (301) 994-0010. Title of Course Start Date Date of Completion Title of Course Start Date Date of Completion Welding November 30 December 20 Safety Upgrading Courses Advanced Firefighting August 17 September 14 August 23 September 20 Basic Firefighting/STCW August 10 September 7 October 19 November 16 August 16 September 13 October 25 November 22 BST Renewal/VPDSD August 17 September 21 October 26 November 2 November 30 December 7 August 23 September 27 November 1 November 8 December 6 December 13 Government Vessels September 14 October 12 November 9 September 20 October 18 November 15 Medical Care Provider August 24 September 21 December 7 August 30 September 27 December 13 Tank PIC Barge (DL) October 14 October 18 Small Arms Training October 19 October 25 Deck Department Lifeboatman/Water Survival August 17 September 14 October 12 November 9 December 7 August 30 September 27 October 25 November 22 December 20 STOS (RFPNW) September 14 November 9 October 11 December 6 Able Seaman August 24 October 12 November 16 September 20 November 8 December 13 August 26 December 16 August 26 December 16 Radar Observer September 7 September 20 ARPA August 10 September 21 August 16 September 27 August 3 August 9 Radar Renewal (One day) Fast Rescue Boat Engine Department Basic Auxiliary Plant Operations (BAPO) September 14 November 9 October 11 December 6 August 17 October 12 September 13 November 8 August 24 October 26 October 18 December 20 Marine Refer Tech September 28 November 8 Pumpman November 30 December 13 Welding September 14 October 26 October 4 November 15 FOWT Junior Engineer UPGRADING APPLICATION Name ________________________________________________________________________ Address ______________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________ Telephone (Home)_________________________ (Cell)_________________________ Date of Birth __________________________________________________________________ Deep Sea Member o Lakes Member o Inland Waters Member o If the following information is not filled out completely, your application will not be processed. Social Security #_______________________ Book # _________________________________ Seniority_____________________________ Department_____________________________ Home Port____________________________________________________________________ E-mail_______________________________________________________________________ Endorsement(s) or License(s) now held_____________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________ Are you a graduate of the SHLSS/PHC trainee program? o Yes o No If yes, class # __________________________________________________________________ Have you attended any SHLSS/PHC upgrading courses? o Yes o No If yes, course(s) taken____________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________ With this application, COPIES of the following must be sent: One hundred and twenty-five (125) days seatime for the previous year, one day in the last six months prior to the date your class starts, USMMD (z-card) front and back or relevant pages of merchant mariner credential, front page of your union book indicating your department and seniority, qualifying seatime for the course if it is Coast Guard tested, 1995 STCW Certificate, valid SHBP Clinic Card and TWIC. August 2013 15048_AUG_2013_LOG.indd 21 Steward Department Upgrading Courses Chief Steward October 5 November 15 Serve Safe August 31 November 23 September 6 November 29 Galley Operations These modules start every Monday. Chief Cook These modules start every other week. The next class will begin August 5. Advanced Galley Operations These modules start every Monday. Students who have registered for classes at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, but later discover - for whatever reason - that they can’t attend, should inform the admissions department immediately so arrangements can be made to have other students take their places. COURSE ____________________________ START DATE _______________ DATE OF COMPLETION _______________________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________________ LAST VESSEL: ___________________________________ Rating: ____________________ Date On: _______________________________ Date Off:____________________________ SIGNATURE ____________________________________ DATE______________________ NOTE: Transportation will be paid in accordance with the scheduling letter only if you present original receipts and successfully complete the course. If you have any questions, contact your port agent before departing for Piney Point. Not all classes are reimbursable.Return completed application to: Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education Admissions Office, P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674-0075; or fax to (301) 994-2189. The Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education is a private, non-profit, equal opportunity institution and admits students, who are otherwise qualified, of any race, nationality or sex. The school complies with applicable laws with regard to admission, access or treatment of students in its programs or activities. 8/13 Seafarers LOG 21 7/24/2013 10:27:42 PM �Paul Hall Center Classes Apprentice Water Survival Class #773 – The following Phase 1 trainees (above, in alphabetical order) completed this course June 7: Ali Alhadad, Mahdi Ali, Isiah Brown, Kenneth Hardy Jr., Markese Haynes, Reed Hopper, George Johnson, Ezequiel Macias-Troncoso, Frederick Murray, Joseph Reich, William Russell IV, Ryan Snow and James Wilder. Class Instructor Ben Cusic is at the far left. Welding – Two Seafarers finished the enhancement of their skills in this course June 21. Completing their requirements (above) were: Mark Canada (center) and Mark Loughman (left). Buzzy Andrews, their instructor, is at the right. Junior Engineer – Twenty-three upgraders finished this course June 28. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Roberto Borras, Maurice Brodie, Larry Calixto, Louise Digman, Albert Dulig, Ross Halstead, Brandon Hess, Michael Hill, Gregory Howard, Vladimir Loutaev, Terrence Meadows, Kassim Mohamed, Eddie Pittman, Robert Puckett, Guiomar Rancel, Gerald Scott, Christopher Shivalier, Zaza Tchitanava, Charles Toliver, Nathaniel Turman, George Velez, Osburn Wyche Jr., and Alexander Zharkoff. Class Instructor John Wiegman is at the far right. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Water Survival Class #773 – Seafarer Santos Goity (above) completed this 60hour course June 7. His instructor was Ben Cusic. Designated Duty Engineer – The following individuals (above, in alphabetical order) graduated from this course June 28: Haeven Bautista, Clint Haylock, Victorino Labrilla and Michael Papaioannou. Scott Ciatto, their instructor, is at the far right. Fast Rescue Boat – Five upgraders finished their requirements in this course June 21. Those graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Nathaniel Balos, Patrick Bethel, Zapata-Nicholls Guillermoa, Timothy Heil and Bryan Page. Their instructor, Stan Beck, is at the far right. Marine Refrigeration – Ten upgraders completed this course June 14. Those graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Jonathyn Bland, Louis Champa, Lawrence Croft, Ralph Garner, Paula Gomez, Gregorio Orara, Loreto Orosco, Elijah Stewart-Eastman, Abner Diaz Torres and Steven Wilson. Class Instructor Jay Henderson is at the far right. (Note: Not all are pictured.) BST (SIU) – Twenty-one Seafarers completed the enhancement of their skills in this course June 21. Graduating (right, in alphabetical order) were: Dimitri Baker, Joel Bell, Robert Borro, William Dukes, Bernardino Eda, Leoncio Gadingan, Frederick Gathers, Charles Hill, Jeffrey Idalski, Derek Ivory, Younis Kaid, Edwardo Meregillano, MaMarilynda Nance, Neal Nelson, Mitch Oakley, Cary Pratts, Jonamie Rivera Encarnacion, Johnny Rodriguez, Deocadio Romney, Marcus Rowe and Wayne Yearbain. Their instructor, Tom Truitt, is at the far right. (Note: Not all are pictured.) 22 Seafarers LOG 15048_AUG_2013_LOG.indd 22 August 2013 7/24/2013 10:27:47 PM �Paul Hall Center Classes Tankship Familiarization DL – Fourteen upgraders graduated from this course June 14. Completing their requirements (left, in alphabetical order) were: Arkady Bichevsky, Matthew Bryant, Julian Dingzon Jr., William Dukes, Charles Hill, Younis Kaid, Victorino Labrilla, Thomas LeRoy, Mana Muhsen, John Nersten, Johnny Rodriguez, Deocadio Romney, Diomedes Vigo and Mony Wiliams. Jim Shaffer, the class instructor, is at the far left. Notice to Students Students who have registered for classes at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, but later discover - for whatever reason - that they can’t attend, should inform the admissions department immediately so arrangements can be made to have other students take their places. Specially Trained Ordinary Seaman – Six individuals finished this course June 7. Those graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Maximo Aguiran, Matthew Alexander, Carlos Cayetano, Dominador Diaz, Victor Febres and Terry Franklin. Bernabe Pelingon, their instructor, is at the far right. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Water Survival Class #774 - Two upgraders graduated from this 60hour course July 5. Completing their requirements were Walden Galacgac (above, left) and George Steube (above, right). Class Instructor Ben Cusic is in the center. Steward Department Courses – Three upgraders recently completed the enhancement of their skills in steward department courses. Those graduating and the courses they completed (above, from left) were: Marlow Brown, advanced galley ops; Daniel Kane, certified chief cook; and Clifford Simril, certified chief cook. August 2013 15048_AUG_2013_LOG.indd 23 Able Seaman – Seven upgraders completed their requirements in this course June 7. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Nathaniel Balos, Patrick Bethel, John Garrett, Chris Johnson, Harry Schrefer, Ben Smith and Jason Wagner. Class Instructor Bernabe Pelingon is at the far right in the front row. Steward Department Courses –Five upgraders recently completed the enhancement of their skills in steward department courses. Those graduating and the courses they completed (above, in no particular order) were: Dawn Johnson, advanced galley ops; Richard Jones, advanced galley ops; Dan Stepnik, advanced galley ops; Rio Cuellar, chief cook; and David Dingman, galley ops. Steward Department Courses –Three Seafarers recently finished their requirements in steward department courses. Graduating and the respective courses they completed (above, in no particular order) were: Jonda Tanner, advanced galley ops; Arlene Thomas, advanced galley ops; and Craig Lundberg, chief cook. Steward Department Courses – Two upgraders recently completed the enhancement of their skills in the steward department’s certified chief cook course. Graduating were Maccine Bell (above, left) and Mario Lacayo. Seafarers LOG 23 7/24/2013 10:27:52 PM �Volume 75, Number 8 August 2013 Paul Hall Center Course Dates Page 21 USA Maritime ran this ad in the June 26 issue of Roll Call. See related article on page 3. 15048_AUG_2013_LOG.indd 24 7/24/2013 10:27:59 PM � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Seafarers Log Issues 2010-2019 Description An account of the resource Volumes LXXII-LXXXI of the Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Seafarers Log Digital Copies Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 2010-2019 Document A resource containing textual data. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre text. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource August 2013 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES MARINERS REMAIN READY, WILLING, ABLE MARITIME INDUSTRY WELCOMES SECRETARY ANTHONY FOXX TO DOT UNION WEIGHS MOVE FROM NEW YORK MEMBERS APPROVE CONTRACTS AT MATSON, EXPRESS MARINE REPORT REINFORCES PL-480’S MERITS USNS SEAY CREW ASSISTS STRICKEN VESSEL IN ATLANTIC SIU-CREWED MLP DEPARTS SAN DIEGO MARITIME LABOR CONVENTION 2006 NEARS IMPLEMENTATION DATE AOTOS HONOREES: REP. KING, FISHER, ROUVELAS NAVY LEAGUE OF THE UNITED STATES HONORS TOTE EXECUTIVE CHIARELLO NOVOTNY ASSUMES COMMAND AT NMC ‘IT STILL FEELS LIKE FAMILY HERE’ IAFF OFFICIAL PROUDLY RECALLS HIS SEAFARING FATHER U.S. ARMY TRANSPORT EDMUND B. ALEXANDER RETIRED MARINER RECALLS TEENAGE YEARS IN POST-WAR GERMANY BRICK DONATION PROGRAM ROLLS ON AT UNION-AFFILIATED PAUL HALL CENTER Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Seafarers Log Digital Copies Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 08/01/2013 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Newsprint Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context Vol. 75, No. 8 2013 Periodicals Seafarers Log http://www.seafarerslog.org/archives/files/original/fdeff76e0bb082f231026ee5e7ad4903.pdf 0c0474c7f1e84af400a4305cea72a4c7 PDF Text Text Volume 75, Number 9 September 2013 Crowley Orders New Tankers Construction Agreement Calls for up to 8 Jones Act Vessels New jobs for SIU members are on the horizon as Seafarers-contracted Crowley Maritime Corp. in early August announced an agreement calling for construction of up to eight new Jones Act tankers. The vessels will be built at a union shipyard: Aker Philadelphia. This photo shows Crowley’s tanker Florida earlier this year at Aker Philadelphia just prior to christening. Page 3. Bosuns See Worlds Of Opportunities In SIU, Paul Hall Center The union’s newest group of recertified bosuns graduated Aug. 5 at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, located in Piney Point, Md. Their graduation speeches consistently emphasized the great opportunities available through the union and its affiliated school in southern Maryland. Pictured immediately following the August membership meeting at the school are (front, from left) Richard Szabo, Carlos Arauz, (standing) Cleofe Bernardez Castro, Virgilio Rosales, Saleh Ahmed, Mohamed Mohamed, Lonnie Porchea, Moises Ramos, Joseph French and Christopher Janics. Pages 12-13. Congressmen Meet in Piney Point The SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center (PHC) recently hosted members of the Congressional Black Caucus for a weeklong series of meetings. Pictured with officials and apprentices at the school in Piney Point, Md., are two of the maritime industry’s most ardent backers: U.S. Rep. Elijah Cummings (D-Md.) (second from left in photo below), and U.S. Rep. Bennie Thompson (D-Miss.) (fourth from right in the photo at left). Joining them for these photo opportunities are (with Rep. Cummings, from left) Kenneth Hardy, Frank Harris and James Wilder; and (with Rep. Thompson, from left) Ali Alhadad, PHC VP Don Nolan, PHC Hotel Manager Howard Thompson, Markese Haynes, SIU President Michael Sacco, Mahdi Ali, George Johnson and Ezequiel Macias-Troncoso. Rep. Hunter Stands up for Maritime Page 5 15049_SEPT2013_LOG_X.indd 1 Snapshots from Hawaii Page 7 Important VPDSD Reminders Page 11 8/23/2013 6:05:49 PM �President’s Report Shipbuilding, Jones Act Vital for U.S. Our lead story this month shines a great spotlight on two crucial parts of the American maritime industry that are vital to U.S. national and economic security. The agreement between Crowley Maritime Corporation and Aker Philadelphia Shipyard to build up to eight new tankers for the Jones Act trade is fantastic on many levels, first and foremost (for us) because it means job security for SIU members well into the future. But we’ve always taken a wide view of the industry, even while standing up for our own interests, because we know the various components have to work for everyone involved in order for the whole operation to remain viable on the deep seas, Great Lakes and inland waterways. With regard to the newly ordered tankers, shipboard jobs aren’t the only ones being created or maintained. The new vessels mean ongoing work at Michael Sacco Aker Philadelphia (a union shipyard) for years to come, and they will help sustain related shore-side jobs, too. Shipbuilding remains one of the most important industries in America, and it’s also an incredibly ripe source of potential new jobs. Our nation currently operates around 100 yards, many of them union facilities, and they do outstanding work. We’ve seen it for years at Aker, at union-contracted NASSCO in San Diego, at union-contracted Ingalls Shipbuilding in Pascagoula, Miss., and elsewhere. But we’ve also seen our nation lose more than 300 shipyards in the last 60 years – a dangerous direction, putting it mildly. The industry is still very productive and it can grow. The expected replacement of ships in the domestic trades offers hope for U.S. shipbuilding. Not just shipyards but the country as a whole would also benefit from developing a national maritime policy, led by the Department of Transportation, that includes adequately funding the Title XI shipbuilding loan guarantee program while streamlining the application process. Another key is maintaining the Jones Act, and electing politicians who will support this critical law. The Jones Act reserves domestic commerce for vessels crewed, built, flagged and owned American. Take it away and you can kiss most if not all of American commercial shipbuilding goodbye. That’s been said more than once not only by shipyard executives but also vessel operators. It was no coincidence that Crowley prominently mentioned the law when announcing its new tanker orders. The SIU has stood up for the Jones Act throughout all of our 75 years, and at times it feels as if there’s no letup in the attacks from those who want to send our jobs overseas. In fact, we’re currently protecting America’s freight cabotage law in Michigan, where that state’s transportation department has released a plan taking aim at the Jones Act. They describe the law as having “restrictive provisions” that “hinder the development of short-sea shipping or other domestic services.” As I pointed out in a formal response, the Jones Act generates more than 500,000 jobs and results in an annual economic output of well over $100 billion nationwide. It also helps ensure the United States has a fleet of American-flag ships and well-trained, dependable U.S. Merchant Mariners who can serve the country during times of war and crisis. In this particular instance, I pointed out that thousands of good-paying Michigan jobs on the Lakes, on the docks, in offices and elsewhere are involved in the Jones Act trade. Aside from the jobs and economic stimulus it provides, the Jones Act also promotes a less-costly mode of transportation. According to the Army Corps of Engineers, Great Lakes shipping saves customers $3.6 billion annually when compared to rail and truck. As was also pointed out by an ally in this fight, this is domestic commerce. It should create jobs for American workers and opportunities for American companies. Again, that’s just one of the current battles, but it reflects why we constantly remain on guard and why we mobilize in the halls of Congress and at the state and local levels – and internationally, for that matter – to defend the U.S. Merchant Marine. Our industry is too important to the nation to let it slip any further. Companies like Crowley, shipyards like Aker Philadelphia, and unions like the SIU prove that we can not only survive but flourish for many years to come. Volume 75, Number 9 September 2013 The SIU online: www.seafarers.org The Seafarers LOG (ISSN 1086-4636) is published monthly by the Seafarers International Union; Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters, AFL-CIO; 5201 Auth Way; Camp Springs, MD 20746. Telephone (301) 899-0675. Periodicals postage paid at Southern Maryland 20790-9998. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to the Seafarers LOG, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. Communications Director, Jordan Biscardo; Managing Editor/Production, Jim Guthrie; Assistant Editor, Brian Ahern; Photographer, Harry Gieske; Administrative Support, Misty Dobry. Copyright © 2013 Seafarers International Union, AGLIW. All Rights Reserved. The Seafarers International Union engaged an environmentally friendly printer for the production of this newspaper. 2 Seafarers LOG 15049_SEPT2013_LOG.indd 2 The Ahbra Franco (above) and another recently constructed boat, the Robert Franco, are state-of-the-art additions for SIU-contracted Harley Marine. Harley Marine Christens New Tug Seafarers on the West Coast are sailing aboard Harley Marine’s newest z-drive tractor tugboat: the MV Ahbra Franco, christened Aug. 15 in Alameda, Calif. Six weeks earlier, the company added a sister tug, the MV Robert Franco. Each of the new boats is 100 feet long and 40 feet wide; they’re performing ship assistance and tanker escort duties in Los Angeles and Long Beach. SIU Vice President West Coast Nick Marrone and Assistant Vice President Nick Celona represented the union at the Ahbra Franco ceremony. SIU VP West Coast Nick Marrone (left) and Asst. VP Nick Celona (right) join Chairman/CEO Harley Franco at the Aug. 15 ceremony. “This is truly a state-of-the-art tugboat, as is the Robert Franco,” Marrone stated. “New tonnage is always great news for SIU members and that’s certainly the case here.” Both tugs – named after Harley Marine CEO and Chairman Harley Franco’s children – were constructed at Nichols Brothers Boat Builders in Freeland, Wash. Harley Franco said the new builds “symbolize Harley Marine Services’ dedication to the safety of our employees, protection of the environment, and to providing the most advanced, dependable, and committed service to all of our customers.” The boats are almost identical; the lone mechanical difference is the Ahbra Franco has continuous horsepower Caterpillar Tier 3 engines while the Robert Franco has intermittent horsepower Caterpillar Tier 3 engines. According to the company, both vessels “were built with the most technically and environmentally advanced equipment available.” They feature cold ironing/shore power capabilities and are equipped with 6,800 horsepower while providing 91 tons of bollard pull. Harley Marine said the new boats are believed to be the most powerful ones to ever provide ship assist services in Los Angeles and Long Beach. “With the growing size of container ships (14,000 TEU) and tankers over 300,000 DWTs calling on these ports, Harley Marine Services is committed to building higher-horsepower tugs in order to accommodate them,” the company said in a news release. “Tugs like the Robert Franco and Ahbra Franco will provide these larger ships with safe navigation in the Lost Angeles/Long Beach harbors, as well as emergency towing services off-shore.” Both tugs also are equipped with state-of-the-art Mackay marine electronics, Markey tow winches, and fire fighting and safety equipment. Labor Board Finally Has Full Membership The labor movement is celebrating the recent Senate worker politicians and groups hoping to disrupt the confirmation of all five of President Barack Obama’s ap- nation’s labor movement. The result has been Conpointees to the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB). gressional gridlock surrounding the appointment of the After a decade of not having its full panel of members, NLRB’s members. the NLRB is now fully staffed and able to do its job of That gridlock “delayed the confirmation of a full protecting workers’ rights and inboard and caused unnecessary anxivestigating labor practices. ety and pain for working families,” “This is good news for all Trumka said. workers seeking to exercise the As is tradition, Obama appointed rights they are guaranteed by law,” three members of his own party and said AFL-CIO President Richard two members of the opposing party Trumka in a statement following – resulting in the board having three the confirmation. “Those essential Democrats and two Republicans. rights include the ability to bargain The Democrats are: Mark Pearce, the together for fair wages and living current chairman; Nancy Schiffer, standards, and a workplace safe an AFL-CIO labor lawyer; and from abuse, harassment and inKent Hirozawa, who served as chief timidation.” counsel to Pearce. The Republicans Created by President Franklin are management-side lawyers Harry D. Roosevelt in 1933 to protect Johnson III and Philip Miscimarra. the collective bargaining rights The board members serve five-year of American workers, the NLRB staggered terms. is the entity that mediates labor In his statement, Trumka apdisputes and investigates unfair plauded the new members, adding labor practices. The board also apAmerican workers would have striproves the certification of newly dent defenders on the NLRB looking formed unions. If the board is unout for their interests. able to meet quorum then it can“With [the] vote, our country has Richard Trumka not perform these duties, leaving qualified public servants on duty to AFL-CIO President aggrieved employees without any defend America’s workers, busicourse of action and workers withnesses and families,” he said. “We out the ability to formally unionize. congratulate all of the nominees and look forward to While the board is bipartisan and made up of mem- having a functioning NLRB that will fairly and imparbers from both labor and management backgrounds, tially oversee the workplace rights of millions of Amerithe NLRB has become a target in recent years of anti- cans.” September 2013 8/22/2013 5:13:09 PM �Union-Contracted Crowley Orders New Tankers Jones Act Vessels Mean New Jobs for Seafarers In a major maritime development, SIUcontracted Crowley Maritime Corporation on Aug. 9 announced an agreement with Aker Philadelphia Shipyard (APSI) to build up to eight product tankers for delivery between 2015 and the end of 2017. Construction contracts have been signed with APSI for the first four 330,000-barrel tankers, with deliveries in 2015 and 2016. Additional agreements between Crowley and the shipyard include options for building up to four more tankers “and for expanding the cooperation initiated with Aker’s sale and delivery of two product tankers, the Florida and Pennsylvania, to Crowley in 2012 and 2013,” Crowley said in a news release. “If all options are exercised, Crowley’s industry-leading Jones Act petroleum fleet will grow to ten 330,000-barrel tankers and 17 articulated tug barges (ATBs), ranging in capacity from 155,000 to 330,000 barrels.” APSI is a union shipyard that also has built ships for Seafarers-contracted Overseas Shipholding Group and for Matson Navigation. “This new agreement is a big win for the SIU, for Crowley, for the shipyard and for America’s national and economic security,” said SIU Vice President Contracts George Tricker. “It’s definitely exciting and I know that our members will wel- Aker Philadelphia Shipyard (shown earlier this year in both photos) already has built vessels for SIU-contracted Crowley, OSG and Matson. The new agreement with Crowley calls for up to eight tankers. come the new jobs while protecting the company’s investment.” “Through this expansion and cooperative agreement with Aker we will be providing our customers with more options for transporting their product with greater safety and efficiency than they can get from any other U.S. service provider,” said Tom Crowley, company chairman and CEO. “We expect these new ships to be well-received by longstanding customers as well as new customers, who should clearly be able to see the advantages of utilizing Crowley’s multi-dimensional fleet and operational expertise.” The new 50,000 DWT product tankers are based on a proven Hyundai Mipo Dockyards (HMD) design which incorporates numerous fuel efficiency features, flexible cargo capability, and the latest regulatory requirements. The vessels will be constructed with consideration for the use of LNG for propulsion in the future. HMD and APSI collaborated on the successful construction of 14 product tankers at APSI between 2007 and 2013. Design and procurement activities are already underway to support the start of construction of Crowley’s first newly contracted tanker in January 2014. APSI expects to invest in the partnership for the first four vessels, consistent with the requirements of the Jones Act. Crowley will maintain control over the ownership, technical operation and commercial management of the vessels. APSI and Crowley will share in the economics of the operation and chartering of the new vessels, both parties reported. “The shale revolution is creating industrial opportunities throughout the United States and specifically here in Philadelphia. We are pleased to expand our partnership with a first-class operator like Crowley to help meet the nation’s longstanding goal of energy security,” Kristian Rokke, president and CEO of Aker, said. “This strategic opportunity allows us to capitalize on the increased demand for Jones Act tankers in a way that will transform APSI in the years ahead. Diversifying our assets enhances Aker Philadelphia Shipyard’s resilience and creates long-term value for both our customers and shareholders.” “We are very pleased to be partnering again with Aker in the construction of these new tankers,” said Rob Grune, Crowley senior vice president and general manager, petroleum services. “They are a well-established and highly respected shipbuilder. We appreciate working with Aker to supply our customers and the nation with the necessary tonnage to bring U.S. petroleum to market.” New Crowley Tugs Going Strong The Ocean Wind is pictured Aug. 13 in Lake Charles, La. The newest tugboats in SIU-contracted Crowley Maritime’s fleet are staying plenty busy these days, smoothly carrying out diverse operations from the Gulf of Mexico all the way to Alaska. “Our jobs definitely are not the same thing as just towing a barge from pointA to point-B,” said Chief Mate Darrel Koonce aboard the Ocean Wind. “Crowley spent a good bit of money on these tugs and we’re doing lots of different jobs.” Capt. Ted Caffy on the Ocean Wave stated, “We realize the potential of these boats. There have never been dynamicpositioning tugboats in the Gulf of Mexico working in the oil fields until now. We’re making it happen, and in Alaska, too. I’ve taken this one from Lake Charles (La.) to Alaska and back.” Crowley’s next-generation tugboats include the Ocean Wave, Ocean Wind, Ocean Sun and Ocean Sky. Their dynamic-positioning technology allows the vessels to maintain positions and headings automatically, using a centralized manual control that continuously calculates environmental conditions and adjusts to the nuances. The tugs range in size from 146-156 feet long and can sail at 15 knots with 15,000 hp and 165 tons of bollard pull. “What’s happening with these tugs is exciting,” said SIU Vice President Gulf Coast Dean Corgey. “Crowley is really poised for growth in the offshore gas and oil field in the Gulf of Mexico, and our members are helping make it happen. And while they’re doing so, our members are enjoying competitive pay and superior benefits for the industry.” Asked about the contract covering the tugs and a recent wage increase, Caffy replied, “I think everybody is happy with it – I haven’t heard any complaints…. All the parties have done the right thing, and that’s very much appreciated. We’re very appreciative of the increase in wages and we look forward to continuing to make Crowley money.” Koonce added, “We’ve come a long way. There’s still a ways to go, but contract negotiations can be tough.” Russo commended the work of Seafarers aboard each of the tugs: “All of the guys are committed to safety and are doing a bang-up job,” he said, adding that any qualified Seafarers who want to apply for work on the new boats should contact the SIU hall in Houston. Houston Port Agent Mike Russo (third from left in photo at left) meets with Crowley boatmen (from left) AB Dave Heindel Jr., Chief Mate Darrell Koonce, Capt. Ted Caffy, AB Chris Harper and AB Justin Webb. September 2013 15049_SEPT2013_LOG.indd 3 Seafarers LOG 3 8/22/2013 5:13:11 PM �Mariner ‘Bill of Rights’ Takes Effect Seafaring organizations around the world welcomed the implementation of the Maritime Labor Convention, 2006 (MLC) on Aug. 20. Along with maritime allies across the globe, including the International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF), the SIU is confident that this new but long-anticipated agreement has great potential to make a genuine difference in the lives of mariners. As pointed out by the ITF, some of the benefits of the MLC for foreign mariners include the potential to stop blacklisting and charging for jobs by some manning agents; the recognition of all crew – including hospitality crew on international cruise ships – as seafarers, who will now all get the same protections; enhanced checks by port state control, including examining pay disputes such as double bookkeeping; and the establishment of welfare facilities in ports and of shipboard safety committees.  ITF President Paddy Crumlin stated, “The MLC represents a significant leap forward in the global trade union campaign to improve the labor rights and labor standards of seafarers. It is a true watershed in international shipping, which adds the pillar of workers’ rights to existing standards of safety, security and crew standards.” ITF General Secretary Steve Cotton noted, “We’ve been waiting over a decade to say this, and now we can: As of Aug. 20, a seafarers’ bill of rights exists. The MLC has come into force. The MLC lays out your minimum rights as a seafarer and pro- motes good employment practices across the shipping industry. It incorporates and builds on 68 existing maritime labor conventions and recommendations to ensure decent working and living conditions. “The convention also stipulates that everyone working on board a cruise ship making international voyages is a seafarer and entitled to the protections it guarantees,” he continued. “These include the right to a safe and secure workplace; fair terms of employment; decent living and working conditions; access to medical care, health protection and welfare.” SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel, who chairs the ITF Seafarers’ Section, pointed out that the MLC is expected to be strictly enforced by flag states and port state control authorities. “It should provide a one-stop shop for labor standards,” he observed. “This will mean that all seafarers should be able to enjoy comprehensive protection of their fundamental rights, and it should also ensure good employment practices across the industry, creating a level playing field in which good ship operators are not put at an economic disadvantage by bad ones.” The MLC addresses a range of matters, including the obligations of shipping companies with respect to seafarers’ contractual arrangements; the responsibilities of manning agencies; working hours; health and safety; existing International Labor Organization maritime standards; and accepted good-employment practices.  Paddy Crumlin ITF President Steve Cotton ITF General Secretary Under it, every ship over 500 gross tonnage operating in international waters or between ports of different countries will have to have a maritime labor certificate issued by its flag administration following an inspection. There will also a requirement for ships to complete and maintain on board a declaration of maritime labor compliance. While U.S. laws and regulations, coupled with collective bargaining agreements, ensure U.S.-flag ships exceed the MLC’s provisions, American ships may still be subject to inspection and possible detainment if the U.S. fails to ratify the convention. Under the MLC’s “no more favorable treatment clause,” any vessel flagged to a country that has not ratified the convention will be subject to inspection and detainment when arriving in the port of an MLC member nation.  The ITF is supporting the MLC’s launch with a range of advice and materials designed to help seafarers understand and apply it. This includes a dedicated online area at www.itfseafarers.org/ILOMLC.cfm International Maritime Labor Teams Up for Great Cause ‘Poker Run’ Nets Thousands for Port Arthur Seafarers Center The SIU recently joined with maritime labor friends from around the world to raise money for a worthy cause.  In mid-July, SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel, Port Agent Pat Vandegrift and members Rob Weinhardt and Fr. Sinclair Oubre were among a dozen motorcycle riders that participated in an inaugural charity “poker run” benefiting the Port Arthur (Texas) International Seafarers Center. Sponsoring the event – which raised more than $4,500 – were the SIU, SIU of Canada, International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF), Maritime Union of Australia, Nautilus International (British officers union) and SINDMAR (Brazilian officers union). Poker runs normally involve participants collecting playing cards from various locations. In this case, the cards were placed in three states (Illinois, Wisconsin, and Michigan) on a scenic route covering approximately 1,400 miles. Vandegrift ended up with the best hand. Future fundraisers are planned for other mariner centers around the world. As with the inaugural one, they will be organized near locations of ITF meetings. “This is an opportunity to help the centers and a new way to make a difference for seafarers,” noted Heindel, who spurred the July 13-15 run. “The Port Arthur center does a great job for both foreign and U.S. crews, and Fr. Sinclair (who oversees the facility in addition to sailing with the SIU) has been such a tremendous ally over the years.” He added that seamen’s centers across the globe offer not only spiritual ministry but also other services like local transportation and basic personal supplies. “A lot of the centers are struggling to keep their doors open because of shorter 4 Seafarers LOG 15049_SEPT2013_LOG.indd 4 port time for vessels,” Heindel noted. Oubre said the initial run “was a great opportunity outside of the usual business meetings for leaders from maritime labor to gather, share time in a relaxed atmosphere and at the same time experience a passion that we all have as motorcyclists. I enjoyed seeing the beauty of Michigan and it’s great that through the efforts of Dave and the ITF we were able to raise so much money.” Vandegrift said the ride “was a blast and it raised money for a good cause, which is to help sailors. It was nice to tour rural Michigan and just a great experience overall.” SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel (left) says mariner centers like the one overseen by Fr. Sinclair Oubre (right) provide a wide range of important services. Some of the participants in the charity poker run gather for a group photo. Pictured from left are SINDMAR President Severino Almeida, Nautilus International General Secretary Mark Dickinson, photographer Melanie Starns, SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel, MUA Deputy National Secretary Mick Doleman, MUA ITF Coordinator Dean Summers and SIU Piney Point Port Agent Pat Vandegrift. September 2013 8/22/2013 5:13:14 PM �U.S. Representative Hunter Stands Up for Maritime Calif. Congressman a Key Ally to Industry, SIU U.S. Rep. Duncan Hunter (R-Calif.) is once again showing why he is one of the maritime industry’s most strident defenders in Congress. Hunter, who serves as chairman of the House Subcommittee on Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation, has spent the summer standing up for policies that lie at the heart of maritime. In Congressional hearings and editorials appearing in popular Internet publications, Hunter has touted the benefits of laws and programs including the Jones Act and the Maritime Security Program (MSP), while warning of the dire consequences that would come if Washington tampered with them. Seeing opponents of maritime attack these key programs, Hunter is quick to set the record straight. “For reasons that are due to either a lack of understanding or appreciation for the U.S. maritime industry, the Jones Act is being misidentified once again as an impediment to job creation and even lower production costs,” Hunter wrote in a July 30 editorial appearing on CNBC.com. While critics of the Jones Act – which requires all shipping between U.S. ports to be on American-made vessels with U.S. flags and American crews – often say the Jones Act leads to higher gas prices, Hunter said the argument simply doesn’t hold water. “That presumption is nothing more than wishful thinking. There are many reasonable and relevant proposals to lower gas prices for American families and secure greater energy independence, but repealing the Jones Act is not one of them,” Hunter wrote. “At present, nearly 90 percent of the cost of gasoline is driven by three things: the price of crude oil, refining and taxes. The remaining 10 percent is attributed to marketing, distribution and retailing, leaving room, however big or small, for profit.” The effects of repealing the Jones Act, Hunter said, would be disastrous. Aside from generating more than 500,000 American jobs and more than $100 billion in annual economic output, the Jones Act also ensures the nation has a fleet of American merchant vessels staffed with well-trained, dependable mariners who are available to the military during times of war and national emergency. “From supplementing global defense sealift capability to revitalizing elements of a waning industrial base, the U.S. maritime industry is a security and economic asset kept strong and healthy by the Jones Act,” Hunter wrote. “America’s economic future depends on a strong maritime industry as much as it depends on domestic energy production and the success of other notable industries that are inextricably linked to its success.” Concerned with the effects of acrossthe-board budget cuts on the MSP, Hunter penned another editorial to warn of the consequences of a shrinking U.S.-flag fleet. Writing for the popular website gCaptain. com, Hunter said the MSP – which pro- vides an annual stipend to ensure 60 militarily useful U.S.-flag, U.S.-crewed ships are available to the military – is vital to the country’s national security. A reduction in programs like the MSP, he added, would lead to an unacceptable shortage in the U.S.-flag fleet. “The U.S. is carrying just 2 percent of global cargo tonnage, down considerably from decades ago. The ramifications are not simply economic,” Hunter wrote. “There is also a direct impact on national security, resulting from the limitation of commercial trade vessels for military sealift under the Maritime Security Program (MSP).” Because of the MSP, the U.S. military has a sealift capability worth billions of dollars for a small fraction of the price. “Especially with an undersized naval fleet, the use of commercial vessels is needed to support operations by transporting military resources,” Hunter wrote. “With the emerging threats requiring straining naval assets worldwide, along with a shift in defense posture in the Pacific region, the support provided through the MSP, which is supported by 60 U.S.-flag vessels, is even more essential.” Hunter’s aggressive defense of the maritime industry and its key programs comes on the heels of a May hearing by the Coast Guard and Maritime Subcommittee which focused on the good those programs do for the country’s national and economic security. The SIU was among the organizations testifying at the hearing, which went U.S. Rep. Duncan Hunter (R-Calif.) into great detail about the benefits of the Jones Act, MSP and the country’s PL480 food aid program. As usual, Hunter took a strong pro-maritime stance at the hearing, arguing those programs – and the U.S. Merchant Marine – are vital to the nation. “Beyond the important contributions to our economy, a healthy maritime industry is vital to our national security,” Hunter said during the hearing. “Throughout our history, the Navy has relied on U.S.-flag commercial vessels crewed by American Merchant Mariners to carry troops, weapons, and supplies to the battlefield.” SIU Takes Maritime Message to DOT, Congress SIU President Michael Sacco (second from left) and other maritime labor officials recently met with new DOT Secretary Anthony Foxx (center), U.S. Rep. Elijah Cummings (third from right) and Maritime Administrator Paul “Chip“ Jaenichen (far right) to discuss the U.S. Maritime Security Program and other aspects of the U.S. Merchant Marine. Also pictured are AMO President Tom Bethel (second from right), MM&P President Don Marcus (far left) and MEBA President Mike Jewell (third from left).to discuss the U.S. Maritime Security Program and other aspects of the U.S. Merchant Marine. Also pictured are AMO President Tom Bethel (second from right), MM&P President Don Marcus (far left) and MEBA President Mike Jewell (third from leftto discuss the U.S. Maritime Security Program and other aspects of the U.S. Merchant Marine. Also pictured are AMO President Tom Bethel (second from right), MM&P President Don Marcus (far left) and MEBA President Mike Jewell (third from left). This was one of the first meetings involving Secretary Foxx and representatives of any industry. The Maritime Security Program is vital to America’s economic and national security. It helps ensure the availability of 60 militarily useful, civilian-crewed, U.S.-flag ships for the Defense Department, and at a fraction of what it would cost the government to replicate the program’s assets. Great Lakes Welcomes New Seaway Administrator Former U.S. Rep. Betty Sutton September 2013 15049_SEPT2013_LOG.indd 5 Former Ohio Congresswoman Betty Sutton has been appointed the administrator of the St. Lawrence Seaway Development Corporation, a move that is being celebrated as a major milestone for the Great Lakes maritime community. Sutton, a celebrated defender of maritime and the Great Lakes region while representing Ohio in the U.S. House of Representatives from 2007 to 2013, is well-versed in shipping issues and committed to American labor and manufacturing. “We could not be more pleased with Sutton’s appointment as seaway administrator,” said Great Lakes Maritime Task Force (GLMTF) President Donald Cree, adding that Sutton was named GLMTF’s Great Lakes Legislator of the Year in 2010. James H.I. Weakley, who serves as GLMTF’s first vice president and president of the Lake Carriers’ Association, praised Sutton’s work with maritime. “She has been at the forefront of nearly every piece of legislation promoting shipping on the lakes and seaway,” Weakley said. “She has supported legislation to increase short sea shipping on the lakes and seaway, increasing dredging, a second Poe-sized lock at Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan, and adequate U.S. Coast Guard icebreaking resources.” Aside from her maritime-related achievements, Sutton was also a key player in 2009’s successful “Cash for Clunkers” program, which provided economic incentives to those who traded in old cars for newer, more fuelefficient vehicles. Now she will head the St. Lawrence Seaway Corporation, which is a governmentowned entity, operating the U.S. portion of the St. Lawrence Seaway between the Port of Montreal and Lake Erie. Tom Curelli, who serves as GLMTF’s third vice president and director of operations for Fraser Shipyards, Inc., said the further utilization of that seaway would be a win for both the environment and the economy. “Ships use less fuel and produce fewer emissions than trains and trucks,” he said. “The seaway could handle more of our imports and exports that currently are produced in or bound for this region, but landed or loaded at East Coast ports. We look forward to working with Sutton and the administration to bring more international cargoes to the system.” President Barack Obama praised Sutton and several other key appointees in a news release following the announcement of their nominations. “These fine public servants bring a depth of experience and tremendous dedication to their new roles,” Obama said. “Our nation will be well-served by these individuals, and I look forward to working with them in the months and years to come.” Seafarers LOG 5 8/22/2013 5:13:16 PM �Unions, Operators, School Team Up For Wellness Project The SIU is a major player as labor and management throughout the maritime industry come together to devise comprehensive, helpful health and wellness guidance for mariners. The goal, officials said, is to foster a health-centered culture that results in healthier mariners and more affordable medical policies – without placing any burdens on individual seafarers. The first step in that plan took place Aug. 13 with a wide-ranging meeting at the union-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education (PHC) in Piney Point, Md. During the gathering, officials from Crowley Maritime Corp., Alaska Tanker Company (ATC) and the Seafarers-affiliated American Maritime Officers (AMO) outlined the tenants of their individual wellness policies, while officials with the PHC and SIU discussed implementing some of those ideas into the PHC’s curriculum and generally the maritime culture. A representative from Maersk Line, Limited also contributed valuable ideas to the discussion. “This is the first coordinated effort to bring everything together,” said John Mason, CEO of American Service Technology Inc. “We’re taking everything the school has been doing and everyone else has been doing and gathering ideas together.” SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel said the idea for the meeting and new policy came about following discussions with Crowley regarding the success of its health and wellness program. While the SIU, PHC and many other companies already have wellness policies and training in place, Heindel said the goal of the new approach is to form a unified policy that stimulates a cultural shift toward health-conscious lifestyles across the industry. “We thought we’d broaden the scope and bring in other people from within industry and see what they are doing. We thought we could bring in the SIU and make it a cultural change,” Heindel said. “That’s why we’re all here. Obviously, the SIU is interested in making sure our people are healthy.” When it comes to promoting a sense of wellness and a culture that values healthy eating and proper exercise and activity, officials agreed that the key lies in education and personal drive. SIU Executive-Vice President Augie Tellez said the PHC could play a significant role in driving those values. “Like anything else, it comes down to individual motivation, which is what this place has to instill,” he said. “It comes down to the culture of the crews you have on that ship. It has always been that way.” Discussing how to change that culture for the better, the officials at the meeting said the galley would be a good place to start. “For our members, there are both short-term and long-term benefits with the wellness project,” said SIU Vice President Contracts George Tricker. “As members adopt healthier lifestyles, they’ll be able to enjoy not only a healthier environment during their working years but also hopefully in a long and gratifying retirement. The bottom line is this program is being developed for the members.” George Tricker SIU VP Contracts Maggie Bowen SIU Plans Administrator John Mason, CEO American Service Technology Inc. Reps Offer Health Program Insights Representatives from shipping companies and a maritime union are offering ideas from their health and wellness programs as the SIU and maritime industry in general work to establish industry-wide guidelines to help keep mariners healthy. In presentations to SIU officials and others at the union-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md., representatives from Crowley Maritime Corp., Alaska Tanker Company (ATC) and the American Maritime Officers (AMO) discussed the aspects of their respective wellness programs and answered questions about their benefits and implementation. The purpose of the meeting was to gather ideas for an industry-wide approach to mariner health and wellness that could lead to a new healthcentered maritime culture. The presentations offered a glimpse of what those future industry-wide health and wellness guide- Margaret Reasoner Managing Director Crowley’s Marine Personnel 6 Seafarers LOG 15049_SEPT2013_LOG_X.indd 6 lines may look like. The following are summaries of the presentations made by Crowley, ATC and AMO during the Aug. 13 meeting. Crowley Maritime Corporation Known as Live Well, Crowley’s program was designed to “promote the health and wellness of our people by creating a work environment that nurtures all dimensions of wellness while heightening engagement, reinforcing healthy behaviors, increasing performance and recognizing health care expenditures,” said Margaret Reasoner, Crowley’s managing director of marine personnel. Reasoner said Crowley has started building a health culture within the company by beginning every meeting with “wellness moments” that discuss health-related issues, providing consistent electronic and hard-copy health-related communications and creating an incentive program. That program includes things like health insurance Susanna Reiner Registered Nurse discounts and gift cards, among other incentives. Crowley has also been considering adding new aspects to the program. “We’re striving to really help individuals manage their health,” Reasoner said. “What we experience at Crowley is not unique to all mariners.” Alaska Tanker Company According to its program description, ATC’s wellness is “not necessarily about weight loss or running a marathon, it is about implementing healthier habits and embracing a lifestyle of wellness that we can pass down through generations.” Like Crowley, much of ATC’s program focuses on education and incentives. Speaking for ATC, Registered Nurse Susanna Reiner said the company tries to find out what its employees are interested in and then brings in experts from those fields to lead related discussions. They talk about subjects such as sleeping better, food, exercise and reducing stress. Bill Cole ATC Labor Relations Director Augie Tellez SIU Executive VP David Heindel SIU Secretary-Treasurer AMO Plans Executive Director Steve Nickerson said his organization has addressed that issue with reduced serving sizes, smaller serving plates, nutritional counseling and educational grocery shopping. “It’s a matter of education,” Nickerson said. “It’s a matter of people starting to understand.” PHC Executive Chef John Hetmanski said SIU stewards and chefs are currently taught with such standards in mind, but added additional steps could be taken to bolster a culture of health and wellness. “A healthier person is a safer, more productive, better-prepared employee for all of us,” Hetmanski said. “We certainly have the ability to change our course work again and implement more of this philosophy and way of thinking into all of the steward department courses. As we make progress in our efforts in this conference, I want to assure everyone here that our curriculum is going very strong in that direction.” Other ideas included creating programs designed to educate mari- ners about reducing stress, sleeping better and making healthy choices. There was also talk of implementing onboard exercise and workout programs. “We’ve had a great day and exchanged a lot of information,” said SIU Plans Administrator Maggie Bowen as the meeting came to an end. “Now we need to figure out how we get it all together and make it work.” The officials then agreed to assemble a mission statement and set of objectives to be discussed at future meetings. There was also talk of putting the PHC advisory board’s medical subcommittee back together to generate further ideas and methods of implementation. “Let’s complement what you guys have done and basically figure out what would work for us. Let’s take a step back and put together a white paper of everything we talked about today,” Heindel said. “Hopefully we can take this meeting as an inaugural meeting for something that will be put forward for everybody.” “These are very simple concepts,” Reiner said. “You get people to catch on and then they spread the story. They tell their stories and then other people want to follow, too.” ATC Labor Relations Director Bill Cole said they’ve also addressed food and portion sizes and had discussions with stewards. “We’re talking about giving them more guidance,” Cole said. “We found there was a lot you could do, particularly on the education side.” American Maritime Officers AMO’s wellness program is multi-faceted. It offers a nutrition center where individual menus can be created for specific dietary needs, nutritional counseling, educated grocery shopping training and a twoweek intensive program known as Fit for Duty. Under the Fit for Duty program, employees interact with a health and wellness coach who works with them on behavior modification, motivation and expectations; a nurse advocate who works with them on medical diagnosis, lab work and setting health goals; a chef who prepares meals and introduces healthy meals; and guest speakers who provide additional support and guidance. Those participating in the AMO’s wellness program also fall under a case management umbrella that helps create positive outcomes. Health personnel stay in touch with wellness program participants to ensure they are still able to receive the guidance and support they need to maintain a healthy lifestyle. “We’ll work with anybody who wants to work on it. We’ll work on a home program as well as a vessel program,” said AMO Plans Executive Director Steve Nickerson. “We try to establish a game plan not only for the vessel, but for at home as well.” Ed Hanley, vice president of labor relations at Maersk Line, Limited, added that investing resources into a wellness program should pay healthful dividends for mariners, their families and their employers in the long run. Steve Nickerson AMO Plans Executive Director Ed Hanley MLL Labor Relations VP September 2013 8/23/2013 6:17:59 PM �In and Around The Port of Honolulu Bosun Mark Hoffman Pacific Collector 2nd Cook Gregory Blaylock Pacific Collector The Crowley-managed Empire State docks in Pearl Harbor. Patrolman Warren Asp (left) presents a full B-book to AB Rico Ecalnir at the union hall. Steward/Baker Allan Bright, Chief Cook Albert Hermoso Pacific Collector SA Armando Amante Pacific Collector Seafarers vote in favor of the new contract with Matson during the July membership meeting. Operated by Interocean American Shipping, the Pacific Tracker ties up in Honolulu Harbor. September 2013 15049_SEPT2013_LOG.indd 7 Pictured from left to right aboard the Horizon Reliance are Chief Cook Matthew Carroll, AB Muthana Koraish and OMU Wilshire Cortez. SA Thomas Curley, SA Arjay Hermoso Pacific Collector Seafarers LOG 7 8/22/2013 5:13:26 PM �At Sea And . . . WELCOME ASHORE IN MOBILE – Two Seafarers recently picked up their first pension checks at the hall in Mobile, Ala., where they were congratulated by Port Agent Jimmy White. Shown at right in the photo at left above is QMED/Electrician Charles Kirksey, whose last ship was the USNS Henson. Pictured at left in photo at right above is QMED/Electrician Robert Farmer, who most recently sailed on the Maersk Texas. A-BOOK IN OAKLAND – ACU Qais Ahmed (right, with Patrolman Nick Marrone II) recently received his A-seniority book at the union hall in Oakland, Calif. Ahmed’s most recent vessels were the APL Cyprine and Waterman’s Green Dale. MATSON PACT APPROVED – As previously reported, Seafarers have ratified a new three-year agreement with Matson Navigation featuring annual wage increases and other gains. Among those voting “aye” (photo at right, from left in front) were ACU Walter Harris, Chief Cook Teresito Reyes and Chief Steward James Harper, pictured with Guam Port Agent John Hoskins aboard the Pfeiffer; and, in the other photo, taken at the hall in Oakland, Calif., Chief Steward James Watson (left) and ACU Tracy Crum (right). They are pictured with SIU VP West Coast Nick Marrone, who negotiated the contract for the union. ABOARD OVERSEAS MAREMAR – These snapshots of crew members from the Overseas Maremar were taken aboard ship and at an airport en route to the vessel. The ship is operated by Overseas Shipholding Group. FOOD AID SHIP DELIVERS EVEN MORE – The Seafarers-crewed MV Capt. Steven L. Bennett (operated by Sealift Inc.), in addition to delivering PL-480 “Food for Peace” cargo to Bangladesh and West Africa, also is scheduled to drop off clothing that recently was donated through the Apostleship of the Sea of the United States of America (AOSUSA). Pictured in Galveston, Texas, with vessel master Capt. Jeremy Allen (right in both photos) are Fr. Sinclair Oubre, who in addition to being an SIU member is president of AOS-USA, and Doreen Badeaux, secretary-general of AOS-USA. 8 Seafarers LOG 15049_SEPT2013_LOG_X.indd 8 September 2013 8/23/2013 9:25:06 PM �. . . Ashore With The SIU SUPPORTING OUR TROOPS – Recertified Bosun Christopher Janics submitted these photos from the USNS Pililaau, taken as the AMSEA-operated ship recently participated in a military exercise known as Combined Joint Logistics Over the Shore (CJLOTS). The event took place in early May off the shore of Pohang, Republic of South Korea. The Pililaau is shown in the photo at top right. In the photo at bottom right, members of the deck gang prepare to tie up. Electrician Bob Rush is pictured in the photo below. LENDING A HELPING HAND – SIU members working for the Army Corps of Engineers (ACOE) have done their part to help the New York-New Jersey area recover from the effects of Hurricane Sandy. In the group photo at left are various crew members from the ACOE’s New York District in Caven Point, N.Y. SIU Delegate Johann Aguilera is shown in the photo below. SEAFARING BROTHERS – Terrance (left) and Reginald Colbert have significantly more in common than just being brothers. Both joined the Seafarers on the same date, were classmates in the same apprentice class at the Paul Hall Center (PHC) for Maritime Training and Education in 2002 and since have simultaneously upgraded their skills at the school. Currently, both are QMEDS who are enhancing their skills in the electronics course at the PHC. Both are natives of Los Angeles and sail from the Port of Houston. Incidentally, the Colberts also often sail aboard the same union-contracted vessel, the USNS Seay. September 2013 15049_SEPT2013_LOG.indd 9 EXPRESS MARINE – Norfolk Port Agent Georg Kenny submitted these photos of Seafarers employed by Express Marine. Pictured above from left to right are Capt. Gil Pruitt, AB/Cook Worlise Knowles and OS/ Cook Samuel Heath. Seafarers LOG 9 8/22/2013 5:13:36 PM �Research Offers Reminder Of Seafarers’ Bravery Editor’s note: In answering a recent request from a Seafarer’s descendant, we dusted off the following article from the Jan. 8, 1943 edition of the Seafarers LOG. It is shared here in the spirit of the union’s 75th anniversary and as a reminder that SIU members have been part of America’s fourth arm of defense throughout that history. SIU Men Brave Jungle To Avoid Internment The SIU crew aboard the Alcoa Pathfinder was not only torpedoed and had to spend days in open boats and rafts, but when they hit shore they were faced with miles of jungle which had to be traversed if they wanted to avoid internment for the duration of the war. That they came through the ordeal alive is a testimony of their strength and courage. The story of their suffering received much space in the Natal Daily News in Durban, South Africa, where they received hospital treatment. A three-column picture of six brothers was run in the paper and showed them recuperating in the hospital; those pictured were brothers J. Szwed, E. Steeneken, E.R. Libecki, R. Tyler, Jesse Joy and John Flannery. The following is the write-up given them in the African paper: Fifty-two survivors of the American ship Pathfinder, recently sunk off the Portuguese East African coast, are now in a Durban hospital recovering from the effects of sunburn and exposure. Some of the men have terribly swollen feet and blistered backs. When the Pathfinder was torpedoed on November 22 the men feared that if they made direct for land they would be interned. So they decided to make the farther trip down the coast to Union territory. Relating the story of their adventures to a Daily News representative who visited the survivors in the local hospital today, Mr. B. Burton, the purser, said the ship went down in under three minutes at 2 o’clock on Sunday morning. “We managed to get away one of our two lifeboats and a raft,” said Mr. Burton. “The other lifeboat was blown up. Five of our crew had been killed by the explosion, the remainder got away safely, and 40 crowded into the lifeboat. Twelve of us got on to a raft, which was taken in tow by the boat. “We made for the Union, but made little progress. By 2 o’clock on Sunday afternoon we were about 200-300 yards off the beach. It was decided then that the men on the raft would make the shore and travel southwards by foot, and that the men in the boat should try to sail to the Union. “At 7 o’clock that night we were 10 miles north of Punta el Oro, the lighthouse on the border of the Union. We lit two beacons to attract the attention of the men in the boat. Shortly afterwards the boat landed and we The Seafarers-crewed Alcoa Pathfinder went down in less than three minutes. camped that night on the beach.” The following day, the entire party made for the lighthouse at el Oro. There they were directed by the Portuguese lighthouse keeper to a mission station at Kosi Lake, across the border. The men suffered many hardships in their trip down the coast. Most of them were scantily clad and those without shoes suffered especially, their feet being not only burnt, but cut by rocks and grasses in the swamps through which they had to walk. “It was wild, desolate country, and apart from a few natives we saw nobody,” said Mr. Mariners Experience Misadventure In the North African Desert – 1943 Editor’s note: Retiree Vincent Patterson sailed with the SIU from June 1942 to July 1951. He sent this story to the LOG in order to share recollections of some his earliest days at sea. Brother Patterson made his first trip as a messman and then switched to the engine department. He sailed throughout World War II, and afterward sailed on Alcoa and Delta passenger liners. He also sailed in the Korean War before coming ashore. Our vessel, the Liberty ship SS James E. Howard, is in convoy from New Orleans through the Caribbean Sea headed to the island of Trinidad. Our convoy suffers a couple of submarine attacks, but we have not lost any vessels. We reach Trinidad and most of the ships remain in convoy. They are headed toward the North Atlantic Ocean and England. Our ship is ordered to sail on its own through the South Atlantic Ocean in the direction of Cape Town, South Africa. Something new is added to our vessel: “torpedo nets,” which are two large booms on the forward mast and two large booms on the aft mast. When the booms are lowered, large steel netting is strung from one boom to the next. This may stop any torpedo from exploding against our hull. We are notified that two German raiders disguised as merchant ships are in our area and are well-armed with five-inch and eight-inch guns. We hope to avoid these ships. After a number of weeks at sea we are in Cape Town. Our ship has boiler trouble, some of our tubes are leaking and we have to cool down a boiler in order to work on the tubes. For a few days we have shore leave. Cape Town is a beautiful city. The people are very friendly. It is situated below a mountain called Table Top, with ocean on both sides. With our boiler repaired we take leave of Cape Town. Up through the Indian Ocean and Red Sea, our ship is now headed for Egypt. The Germans control all of the Mediterranean Sea and North Africa; this is why we go around the southern tip of Africa. Japanese submarines patrol this area; the Japanese are fierce and mean adversaries. Their intention is to kill everyone, even if captured. Arriving at a small port near the mouth of the Suez Canal, the ship drops anchor. This is where we will spend the next month unloading supplies for the invasion of Sicily and Italy. Our vessel is 10 Seafarers LOG 15049_SEPT2013_LOG_X.indd 10 anchored not too far from an Army camp. Camp Attica is located a few miles outside the town of Suez, which itself is off limits to all military personnel. Roaming bands of Arabs will cut your throat and leave you naked in the desert after they rob you. The Army guys pick us up at night in jeeps and trucks and take us into camp. We hold on tight as they race each other. One night, Jack Benny and a USO show are performing, and we all enjoy the show. My buddy Eddie and I decide to take a few days off to see the Pyramids and the Sphinx. The next morning we start thumbing our way across the North African desert. Rides we catch are mostly with the English and Canadian Army drivers. We arrive in Cairo, climb the pyramids, and see the Sphinx, where Napoleon’s men shot off the nose. We spend the night in Cairo, and the next morning we are on our way to Alexandria, Egypt. The Germans at this time have lost most of North Africa. When we arrive in Alexandria there is no place to stay. The German Embassy is now vacant, so we spend the night there. The Germans have stripped most of the furniture but the marble staircases and the rest of the place is beautiful. The bathrooms are working, but no tissue paper. Eddie, who had been in the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) camps before the war, always carries tissue paper in his back pocket when working in the forest, as he did on this day. Hooray for Eddie! After breakfast we tour the city, go underground into the catacombs, see the sights and then head back to Cairo. Once again we hitch a ride with a British soldier. About halfway between Alexandria and Cairo is an Army camp. The three of us were thirsty and stopped for a drink. This camp is filled with girls, English WAFS (women’s auxiliary ferrying squadron). Wow, what a surprise: hundreds of them. They have lemonade and we have nothing to drink from, so we bought a cup. Us two Yanks are a hit for a while, but we need to head back into the desert. It is early evening when we arrive in Cairo, have dinner, buy a bottle of wine and discuss staying the night. Since it is still light we decide to head back toward Suez and the army camp. It is a poor, almost fatal decision. Continued on Page 15 Burton. “On this last stage of our journey we split into three parties, one of which pushed on to the trading store. We were met by a party of policemen who took us by truck to the Maputa police outpost. “The following day the captain’s party, which had remained on the beach, was picked up, and we all went into camp at the Maputo outpost.” Mr. Burton paid a tribute to the wireless operator, one of the men who had been killed, who stuck to his keys sending out signals while the ship sank. He went down with the ship. Supporting MSC Missions Vessel master Capt. Bud Conroy emailed this recent photo of the SIUcrewed, AMSEA-operated BBC Seattle off Gibraltar. “She was returning from the Persian Gulf, having recently completed her first year on charter to the Military Sealift Command,” the captain wrote. Crew members on this voyage included Bosun Arthur Cross, ABs Rolando Salamat and Marcus Hugee, QMEDs Antoine Best and Jessie Parente, Chief Steward Julio Marcone and SA Sheilla Daguio. Furloughs End Early for Defense Workers A series of unpaid furlough days ended in August for 4,200 SIU CIVMARS and nearly 700,000 additional civilian employees working for the Department of Defense (DOD). The good news came following DOD’s move Aug. 6 to reduce the number of mandatory furlough days from 11 down to six. While the workers – including Seafarers working for the U.S. Military Sealift Command – were initially required to take one furlough day per week starting July 8 and continuing through the end of the fiscal year, the reduction meant employees had their final furlough day in mid-August. The furloughs were the result of across-the-board spending cuts enacted when Congress and the administration failed to reach an agreement on the federal budget in 2012. While 22 furlough days were originally scheduled, the number was cut 14 in March, then 11 in May following the lobbying efforts of the SIU and its allies. According to the Associated Press, Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel approved the final furlough day number of six after meeting with Pentagon officials. The Pen- tagon was able to identify an additional $1.5 billion in savings, thus reducing the need for the furloughs. “I want to thank our civilian workforce for their patience and continued dedication to our mission during these extraordinarily tough times,” Hagel said in a memo to military officials. “I regret the difficulties they and their families had to face during this furlough period.” The Federal Workers Alliance (FWA) – a coalition of unions to which the SIU is a member – announced as the furloughs were starting in July that it would fight against them. It established a grassroots campaign that included in-office visits, electronic constituent letters, phone calls and social media activism. In a statement just before the furloughs began, FWA Chairman William Dougan said it was vitally important to the country that these federal workers stay on the job. “Behind every good soldier is a team of dedicated Defense civilian employees,” Dougan said. “These are dedicated men and women who support the mission of our troops abroad and defend our families against threats at home.” September 2013 8/23/2013 6:32:13 PM �A member of the Paul Hall Center’s vocational staff briefs a group of apprentices and upgraders on the steps they need to take to secure the Vessel Personnel with Designated Security Duties endorsement. Don’t Miss The Boat! Your Job May Be At Stake! Reminder and Instructions for Obtaining STCW Security Endorsements As previously reported, because of requirements stemming from the most recent amendments to the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW), all mariners serving on vessels engaged on voyages to which the STCW applies must have training in and an endorsement for Security Awareness (SA). If any of their assigned duties on ship will include security of the vessel, they must also hold the Vessel Personnel with Designated Security Duties (VPDSD) endorsement, according to the U.S. Coast Guard’s National Maritime Center. Sea time may be substituted for training if it meets specified requirements. For most Seafarers, complying with these new regulations will simply be a matter of securing a letter from their respective employers (companies or vessel masters) indicating that the mariner has performed security functions aboard ship for a period of at least six months during the preceding three years. The letter then is submitted to a Coast Guard regional exam center (REC) so the member may acquire an appropriate sticker indicating the corresponding security endorsement. SIU officials and personnel from the unionaffiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education have been assisting as many Seafarers as possible through this process. For Seafarers who don’t have the required sea time with security duties, the Paul Hall Center regularly offers courses to meet the new requirements. VPDSD – VI/6 – Vessel Personnel with Designated Security Duties VSO – VI/5 – Vessel Security Officer n According to the policy letter, mariners will not be charged for adding an STCW endorsement if they apply before Jan. 1, 2014 unless they’re seeking a renewal or a raise in grade of their MMCs, nor will the expiration dates change. Other Notes n SIU members who currently have a Vessel Security Officer (VSO) endorsement already comply with the new requirement. n If demonstrating completion of an approved course, the certificate of completion should be attached to Coast Guard form 719B as an application for an endorsement. If the mariner is also seeking a renewal of an existing document, form 719K (Medical Evaluation Report) would also have to be filed. Those forms are linked in an SIU web post mentioned at the end of this article. n The three STCW security endorsements are: SA – VI/6 – Security Awareness For More Information n Questions may be directed to the NMC at 1-888-IASKNMC (1-888427-5662), 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday. n Questions may be directed to your port agent. n Questions may be directed to the Paul Hall Center’s admissions office at (301) 994-0010. n A post on the SIU website includes a sample letter and links to related Coast Guard material. It is located at: http://www.seafarers.org/news/2013/Q1/STCWSecurityEndorsementInfo.htm (Or, just go to www.seafarers.org and search for “VPDSD”) Manpower Provides Recap Concerning Proper Maintenance Of Mariners Credentials Officials in the union’s manpower office are offering members some reminders regarding the maintenance of merchant mariner credentials (MMC). It is especially important that new endorsement stickers are placed on the next empty MMC page and added in order as numbered by the National September 2013 15049_SEPT2013_LOG.indd 11 Sample Letter for those with Sea Time Prior to January 1, 2012: Dear Sir: This letter is to provide documentation that NAME has seagoing service with designated security duties for a period of at least six months during the preceding three years and meets the STCW qualifications for Vessel Personnel with Designated Security Duties. Sincerely, NAME OF MASTER OR COMPANY OFFICIAL Maritime Center (NMC). Do NOT place new endorsement stickers on pages that already have endorsements or writing on them. Please read the instructions provided by the NMC prior to adding your stickers. Also, mariners should NEVER cover up anything in their MMC with new stickers. If a mariner puts stickers over a page that already contains a sticker, their MMC is automatically void and he/she cannot ship on it until a duplicate is issued by the NMC. Manpower officials therefore urge members to take great care when adding new endorsement stickers to their credentials, making sure that they are affixed properly. Anyone requiring assistance should contact their local port agent or the admissions office at the Paul Hall Center. In addition, mariners should be sure that they are aware of what endorsements they currently hold in their MMCs, both international and domestic. This is extremely important when renewing MMCs with the Coast Guard. Be sure to check any newly issued MMC for errors which may occur in issuance. Mariners who notice an error should contact the NMC as soon as possible at 888-427-5662 Seafarers LOG 11 8/22/2013 5:13:38 PM �Bosuns brush up on their computer skills during the three-week course. Classroom instruction augments practical exercises at the Joseph Sacco Fire Fighting and Safety School, which is part of the Paul Hall Center. The course’s hands-on training includes fire fighting. Bosuns Point to Union, School as Golden Opportunities O ne by one, the union’s newest class of recertified bosuns stepped to the podium to address their classmates, other fellow Seafarers, trainees and SIU officials. As they spoke at the Aug. 5 membership meeting in Piney Point, Md., an unofficial but common theme emerged: Both the union and its affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education offer excellent opportunities to sustain meaningful, rewarding careers. Several of the bosuns mentioned that sailing with the SIU enabled them to comfortably support their respective families, including putting kids through college. In fact, a few of the graduates were joined at the meeting by family members who travelled to the school. In all, 10 Seafarers completed the three-week curriculum, which is the top one available to SIU deck-department mariners. The graduates are Lonnie Porchea, Mohamed Mohamed, Virgilio Rosales, Cleofe Bernardez Castro, Carlos Arauz, Joseph French, Saleh Ahmed, Christopher Janics, Moises Ramos and Richard Szabo. The Seafarers covered many subjects throughout the recertification class. They worked with Paul Hall Center instructors and met with representatives from various departments of the SIU as well as the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan and the Maritime Trades Department, AFL-CIO. Topics and training included new security requirements stemming from amendments to the STCW convention; basic safety training; communication skills; computer proficiency; other international maritime conventions; working with apprentices at the school; SIU contracts, and grassroots political action. Following are highlights of the graduation speeches, in chronological order. Lonnie Porchea A Seafarer since 1997 who ships from Philadelphia, Porchea said the three weeks spent in recertification were among the best times of his life. “I’ve learned so much, and now have so much to share with shipmates,” he noted. “This class enhanced my knowledge and will help me set efficient goals aboard ship while sustaining high morale among the crew.” He added, “If you come to the Paul Hall Center to upgrade, you will learn 12 Seafarers LOG Untitled-2 2-3 15049_SEPT2013_LOG.indd 12 a lot, because the instructors will work with you and teach you. Thank God for the SIU and our strong leaders.” Mohamed Mohamed A frequent upgrader who sails from Tacoma, Wash., Mohamed said that in addition to learning or refining skills that will help him aboard ship, the course reminded him that “the SIU has shown me the right way, and the school has given me opportunities to acquire training that leads to security and a way to earn a living and support my family. The SIU has given me so many opportunities.” Mohamed, who joined the SIU in 2003, said he has sailed around the world several times, and he urged fellow mariners to support the union’s voluntary political action fund (SPAD) as well as the Maritime Defense League (MDL) “to keep our jobs going and getting more ships.” He described the Paul Hall Center as “a great facility,” and encouraged the apprentices to “take full advantage of everything the union and the school offer. Think ‘safety first’ and listen and ask questions. “God bless America and God bless the SIU!” Virgilio Rosales Next to the podium was Rosales, who joined the SIU in 1999 in Ft. Lauderdale, Fla., which is still his home port. He said the class will make him “a better leader aboard ship. My experience at Piney Point has been excellent. The teachers are fantastic.” Rosales said the SIU has been “essential to me and my family, and I thank the union leadership for that.” Carrying on a tradition of recertification graduates addressing apprentices, he concluded, “You can stand where I stand today. Put in the effort and hard work.” Cleofe Bernardez Castro Castro joined the union in 1992 in Hawaii and now sails from New York. “I learned a lot in this class and I’m so proud to be a union member,” he said. “It was a pleasure to be here and I thank all the members of every department we met with. I had time to ask many questions and I will take the answers with me to the vessels.” Castro said his career is a testament to the opportunities available through the SIU. He began sailing as an assistant butcher on the white ships. But along with making progress, he also said it’s important to support the organization. “It’s not what your union can do for you; it’s what you can do for your union,” he stated. “And what you can do is get out there and work to the best of your abilities. Protect the name of this organization…. I couldn’t be more proud of this union. Thank you so much for being there for me and my family.” Carlos Arauz A Seafarer since 1991, Arauz joined in Houston and still ships from there. Like his classmates, he said that in addition to honing safety skills and brushing up on maritime conventions, he was very interested to learn more about how politics affects the livelihoods of all SIU members. He also enjoyed reuniting with several class members whom he’d sailed with at various times. “We learn a lot at this school,” said Arauz, who has upgraded four times. “It’s important that students learn all they can when upgrading, and pass on important information when you go on the ships.” Reflecting on his career, he added, “I’ve made a good living thanks to the SIU. Headquarters is working hard for us. Thanks!” Ahmed mentioned that he joined the SIU in 1977 in Algonac, Mich., and still ships from there. He said the recertification class proved very worthwhile, and encouraged all SIU members to upgrade whenever possible. He also urged fellow Seafarers to donate to SPAD. “This union has given me the opportunity to learn, to make money and to travel the world,” he added. “I thank the SIU for protecting our jobs and I thank the instructors here at the school. I’ve learned a lot of new information. “To the trainees, take advantage of what the union and school offer you. This union is your best friend.” Christopher Janics Pointing out he was a member of Trainee Class 322 in 1980, Janics, who sails from Jacksonville, Fla., said the August membership meeting “feels like a family reunion. I’ve sailed all the way around the world. The union gave me an opportunity to have a good life, and for my family to have a good, stable life. That’s a fact.” He thanked the dais officials by name and said he appreciated the behind-thescenes look at how the union and school operate. Janics also encouraged fellow Seafarers to donate to SPAD: “Without it, our jobs could very well fall by the wayside.” Wrapping up by addressing the apprentices, he said, “Work hard at school, learn from the instructors, and help each other here and on the ships. A question not asked is knowledge not learned.” Moises Ramos Ramos joined the NMU in 1977 in New York and became a Seafarer when the unions merged in 2001. His home port is Ft. Lauderdale, Fla. “Thank you to my union for many days of smooth sailing,” he said. “I’m grateful for your hard work and dedication. Thanks also to the instructors – this has been an informative course. It is fun but serious at the same time.” Ramos described the school’s fire fighting training as “a real confidence builder,” and expressed similar sentiments about the CPR and First Aid course. He told the apprentices, “You have a great opportunity here. Trust your union. In part, our legacies will be carried by you. Be professional, be proficient, work hard, and together we will all feel proud.” Richard Szabo Good-naturedly called “captain” because, at 68, he’s the oldest class member, Szabo joined the union in 2001 in Wilmington, Calif., and now sails from Tacoma. “I’m really impressed with our whole organization and how terrific this school is,” he stated. “I know I’ll be a much better leader as a result of this class. The people who teach here are so dedicated and they care.” After asking everyone else in the auditorium to join him in applauding the school’s staff and union officials, Szabo said the trainees had asked good questions when meeting with the bosuns during class. “Keep asking them,” he continued. “Do your very best and keep up the good work.” Joseph French French became a Seafarer when the NMU merged into the SIU in 2001. Overall, though, he has sailed for more than 30 years. He got the audience’s attention when mentioning that he already put his son through medical school and that his daughter currently is enrolled. “I’m grateful and I thank our president, Mike Sacco, and all the other officials,” French said. “Thanks to the Paul Hall Center instructors, too. The school is awesome and they’re doing wonderful work here.” Speaking to the trainees, he concluded, “Ask questions and work hard on the ships. You are the future of the SIU and you are the future of the U.S. Merchant Marine.” Saleh Ahmed Taking his turn at the microphone, SIU officials join the newly recertified bosuns for a traditional photo in front of the stage following the August membership meeting in Piney Point, Md. September 2013 8/22/2013 5:13:40 PM September 2013 15049_SEPT2013_LOG.indd 13 Seafarers LOG 13 8/23/13 7:07 PM 8/22/2013 5:13:42 PM �9/13 14 Seafarers LOG 15049_SEPT2013_LOG.indd 14 September 2013 8/22/2013 5:13:44 PM �Seafarer Counts His Blessings Continued from Page 10 Our next ride is in the back of a stake body truck carrying large coils of rope, driven by two Egyptians. We climb in and settle down in the coils of rope passing the wine bottle back and forth. The night has turned dark, with just a blacktop road and our truck rolling along in the lonely desert. Half asleep, I feel the truck slowing down, and when I look this Arab is climbing up the back of the truck and some others are running along waiting to get aboard. I yell to wake Eddie up, and then I swing the wine bottle at the Arab, knocking him down off the truck. He falls on the others, spreading them across the road. The truck keeps going, and a quarter of a mile farther down there is a crossroad. The truck stops and the driver says, “Army camp that way.” We climb out of the truck and I tell Eddie, we are in deep [stuff]. Those guys who tried to get onto the truck are mad as hornets and we have nothing but open desert around us. Maybe the dark night will help. We start walking toward the camp, not knowing how far we have to go or if those people would catch up to us. It could be that two guys found the next morning with their throats sliced and naked in the sands of the desert would be us. Out of the dark comes two little slits of light, blackout lights on an English Army Austin truck. It has a canvas back like a covered wagon. I jump in the middle of the road and flag it down. When it stops, I stick my head in the window and stare at the prettiest girl I’ve seen in over seven months. I say, “There are a number of Arabs looking for us somewhere out in the dark and we need a ride to camp.” She asks, “What are you two Yanks doing out here in the desert at night? They will kill you!” I reply, “We just arrived on a rope truck from Cairo and did have a little altercation with a few of them down the road and I think they are very angry.” She tells us to climb in the back. The truck makes it to Camp Attica and we jump out, telling her there’s no way we can thank her enough – however, I can manage to be in camp tomorrow night and would like to thank her again. She was laughing as the little truck pulled away. A small boat took us out into the bay and on to the ship. At the time we were young (17) and did not think too much of the encounter. However, now that I am older it makes me shudder. Personal I’m hoping to contact Thomas Curtis of Mississippi, who worked out of the Mobile, Alabama, merchant seamen’s union hall approximately 30 years ago. Please contact Christopher Bryant, 16 Coolidge Point, Manchester by the Sea, Massachusetts 01944. Call me at (978) 223-0563, or email: christopher@ caplines.com. October & November 2013 Membership Meetings Piney Point...................................Monday: October 7, November 4 Algonac.........................Friday: October 11, November 8 Baltimore........................Thursday: October 10, November 7 Guam.........................Thursday: October 24, November 21 Honolulu..........................Friday: October 18, November 15 Houston....................................* Tuesday: October 15, November 12 Jacksonville.....................Thursday: October 10, November 7 Joliet............................Thursday: October 17, November 14 Mobile..........................Wednesday: October 16, November 13 New Orleans........................Tuesday: October 15, November 12 New York.......................Tuesday: October 8, November 5 Norfolk...........................Thursday: October 10, November 7 Oakland.............................Thursday: October 17, November 14 Philadelphia........................Wednesday: October 9, November 6 Port Everglades..................Thursday: October 17, November 14 San Juan..................................Thursday: October 10, November 7 St. Louis.....................................Friday: October 18, November 15 Tacoma..................................Friday: October 25, November 22 Wilmington............................Monday: October 21, November 18 * Houston changes created by Columbus Day and Veterans’ Day holidays. Each port’s meeting starts at 10:30 a.m. September 2013 15049_SEPT2013_LOG.indd 15 Dispatchers’ Report for Deep Sea July16, 2013 - August 15, 2013 Total Registered Port A All Groups B C Total Shipped A All Groups B C Trip Reliefs Registered on Beach A All Groups B C Deck Department Algonac 13 16 4 16 4 2 5 17 20 3 Anchorage 1 0 0 1 1 0 2 4 3 1 Baltimore 4 9 1 7 4 2 4 11 10 0 Fort Lauderdale 18 11 4 19 9 2 10 24 14 8 Guam 1 1 1 1 3 0 0 4 3 1 Honolulu 12 6 0 6 4 0 1 22 6 1 Houston 37 12 1 39 6 2 17 90 20 5 Jacksonville 42 23 5 31 13 2 21 63 36 6 Joliet 7 2 1 6 5 1 0 6 4 0 Mobile 11 5 0 5 1 2 1 17 6 1 New Orleans 8 0 2 14 1 0 9 15 3 4 New York 51 18 4 28 13 0 13 105 23 6 Norfolk 17 23 5 16 21 6 12 28 34 7 Oakland 31 7 0 11 3 2 5 52 10 0 Philadelphia 5 2 2 5 2 1 0 10 4 1 Piney Point 2 2 1 1 2 1 0 4 2 0 Puerto Rico 7 6 1 9 3 0 1 14 8 3 Tacoma 31 16 6 33 12 3 12 73 30 12 St. Louis 1 2 1 1 1 0 0 3 3 3 Wilmington 32 26 3 22 11 1 14 58 60 11 TOTALS 331 187 42 271 119 27 127 620 299 73 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS Engine Department 4 2 2 6 0 1 0 5 8 1 0 2 0 0 0 0 0 1 2 0 2 4 1 4 1 1 1 5 7 2 13 3 1 8 2 2 4 15 5 4 1 1 0 1 1 0 0 3 0 0 8 2 2 8 2 0 1 17 4 2 21 9 1 8 4 1 2 41 13 3 20 18 1 19 7 1 7 43 24 15 2 6 0 4 3 0 1 2 6 0 5 1 1 2 1 1 0 13 2 4 1 4 0 2 3 0 1 4 5 0 14 13 4 12 9 0 3 26 22 5 6 11 2 6 9 1 4 20 25 2 9 7 3 5 5 1 2 18 8 2 4 3 1 2 2 1 2 4 5 1 1 4 0 3 0 0 0 3 3 0 3 4 0 3 3 0 1 5 6 0 13 9 1 12 3 0 7 33 12 1 1 1 0 1 0 0 1 0 3 0 14 11 0 12 4 0 7 25 22 1 142 115 20 118 59 10 44 283 182 43 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS Steward Department 4 1 4 4 1 2 0 6 2 2 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 3 6 1 2 3 0 0 6 3 1 7 6 1 8 0 1 1 17 8 3 3 5 0 1 2 0 0 5 2 0 20 4 1 11 2 0 2 29 7 1 19 8 2 10 4 0 5 32 14 3 13 7 2 10 3 2 6 30 10 1 2 1 1 2 0 1 0 0 1 0 3 1 2 4 2 1 0 8 3 1 6 1 0 4 0 2 2 11 2 2 13 3 1 10 3 0 3 31 6 2 7 15 5 8 6 2 6 20 24 5 18 6 2 18 7 1 9 21 4 3 3 0 0 5 1 1 2 3 0 2 3 4 1 3 2 0 0 4 3 1 2 4 0 3 2 0 4 4 3 0 18 4 0 13 2 1 6 30 7 0 1 2 0 1 1 0 0 2 3 0 28 1 0 17 3 0 5 42 1 1 173 80 23 134 44 14 51 301 104 28 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS Entry Department 6 12 7 2 7 4 1 7 30 16 0 0 2 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 2 2 1 2 4 1 0 0 2 4 1 8 0 0 6 3 1 1 8 3 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 0 1 3 7 3 3 7 0 2 5 16 9 17 5 3 7 3 3 7 26 20 2 16 13 0 15 5 2 3 20 17 0 0 2 0 0 2 1 1 0 1 0 4 2 0 0 0 0 0 4 2 1 2 1 2 2 1 1 1 2 4 5 14 11 2 7 3 0 10 42 27 1 18 23 2 7 8 3 6 29 37 2 11 6 2 7 2 1 4 19 15 0 0 3 1 0 0 0 0 1 3 0 1 3 0 1 3 1 0 0 7 0 2 2 1 1 0 1 2 1 2 2 9 4 7 7 2 2 8 24 6 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 14 3 2 8 0 1 15 53 39 33 134 95 29 82 44 18 67 269 221 GRAND TOTAL: 679 516 180 552 304 95 240 1,271 854 365 Seafarers LOG 15 8/22/2013 5:13:44 PM �Inquiring Seafarer Seafarers International Union Directory Michael Sacco, President Augustin Tellez, Executive Vice President David Heindel, Secretary-Treasurer George Tricker, Vice President Contracts Tom Orzechowski, Vice President Lakes and Inland Waters Dean Corgey, Vice President Gulf Coast Nicholas J. Marrone, Vice President West Coast Joseph T. Soresi, Vice President Atlantic Coast Kermett Mangram, Vice President Government Services Editor’s note: This month’s question was answered by SIU members who are enrolled in upgrading courses at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. Question: What surprised you most about seafaring when you first began sailing? HEADQUARTERS 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746 (301) 899-0675 ALGONAC 520 St. Clair River Dr., Algonac, MI 48001 (810) 794-4988 Reinaldo Roman QMED ANCHORAGE 721 Sesame St., #1C, Anchorage, AK 99503 (907) 561-4988 BALTIMORE 2315 Essex St., Baltimore, MD 21224 (410) 327-4900 GUAM P.O. Box 3328, Hagatna, Guam 96932 Cliffline Office Ctr. Bldg., Suite 103B 422 West O’Brien Dr., Hagatna, Guam 96910 (671) 477-1350 HONOLULU 606 Kalihi St., Honolulu, HI 96819 (808) 845-5222 HOUSTON 1221 Pierce St., Houston, TX 77002 (713) 659-5152 JACKSONVILLE 5100 Belfort Rd., Jacksonville, FL 32256 (904) 281-2622 JOLIET 10 East Clinton St., Joliet, IL 60432 (815) 723-8002 MOBILE 1640 Dauphin Island Pkwy, Mobile, AL 36605 (251) 478-0916 Gladiz David SA I first thought how I liked the crew and meeting people. It wasn’t anything like home. It was very different. I didn’t get up early when I was at home. On the ship I had to get up very early. I had to schedule my time for the work. Everything is on a schedule. At home, I could do everything on my own time. Tony Harrell Chief Cook The first time I was just excited to see all these different things. It was a new experience. Everything was new to me. I went from not making much money to making a nice chunk of change. I went from being on the street to visiting different countries. I’ve been all over – places like Singapore and Spain. It was everything I thought it would be. I started with an LNG (ship) and thought, wow, this is a big ship. You don’t get to see them up close until you’re a seafarer. It was pretty big, about 900 feet. It was a lot more than I expected. I originally thought we would just go from port to port. But you actually get to have leave time and can meet people. And the money is really good. They’ve been getting some really good contracts for us. I’ve been doing 20-something years on steamships and because of the SIU I can upgrade and go on to diesel (ships). Justin Bing Wiper Ron Lukacs QMED You end up learning a lot by going out on the ship. And at the school you get a lot of hands-on training. That’s what you really need. I’m glad to see they realize they’ve got to get these guys at the school. The one thing about this school is it’s a stepping stone for you. I’ve learned you can’t be stagnant; you’ve got to be moving. The opportunities are here. The money is good. You have a lot of advantages. We have to take advantage of what the old-timers have been showing us. Having this school is a real opportunity. The merchant mariner lifestyle is different from the nine-to-five people. The money is excellent. You can’t go wrong with the money. I like to use the word “ambition.” You have to look forward to the future. I’m really happy to be around all these positive people. People give me inspiration. And if it wasn’t for the old-timers a lot of us young-timers wouldn’t be here. Mario Batiz Wiper At first I thought it might be harder to do better. But so far everything is working out great for me. Everything I need to do is happening. I’m very proud to be a part of the SIU. I’m doing the school and moving up a lot. It’s a lot more open than I thought it might be. You just have to work hard and put in the time. That’s why I want to let the members know – don’t be afraid to go ahead and come to the school. Pic-From-The-Past NEW ORLEANS 3911 Lapalco Blvd., Harvey, LA 70058 (504) 328-7545 NEW YORK 635 Fourth Ave., Brooklyn, NY 11232 (718) 499-6600 Government Services Division: (718) 499-6600 NORFOLK 115 Third St., Norfolk, VA 23510 (757) 622-1892 OAKLAND 1121 7th St., Oakland, CA 94607 (510) 444-2360 PHILADELPHIA 2604 S. 4 St., Philadelphia, PA 19148 (215) 336-3818 PINEY POINT P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674 (301) 994-0010 PORT EVERGLADES 1221 S. Andrews Ave., Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33316 (954) 522-7984 SANTURCE 1057 Fernandez Juncos Ave., Stop 16 Santurce, PR 00907 (787) 721-4033 ST. LOUIS/ALTON 4581 Gravois Ave., St. Louis, MO 63116 (314) 752-6500 TACOMA 3411 South Union Ave., Tacoma, WA 98409 (253) 272-7774 WILMINGTON 510 N. Broad Ave., Wilmington, CA 90744 (310) 549-4000 These Seafarers were among the first AB upgraders at the union-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. Pictured from left to right in this photo from August 1969 are (kneeling) Andrew Stortroen, Johnnie McClenton, Joseph DeJessa, (standing) Fred Legg, Paul Giordano, Dennis Rowland, James Hotsko and Robert Meredith. If anyone has a vintage union-related photograph he or she would like to share with other Seafarers LOG readers, please send it to the Seafarers LOG, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. Photographs will be returned, if so requested. High-resolution digital images may be sent to webmaster@seafarers.org 16 Seafarers LOG 15049_SEPT2013_LOG.indd 16 September 2013 8/22/2013 5:13:49 PM �Welcome Ashore Each month, the Seafarers LOG pays tribute to the SIU members who have devoted their working lives to sailing aboard U.S.-flag vessels on the deep seas, inland waterways or Great Lakes. Listed below are brief biographical sketches of those members who recently retired from the union. The brothers and sisters of the SIU thank those members for a job well done and wish them happiness and good health in the days ahead. DEEP SEA HARVEY BARLOW Brother Harvey Barlow, 65, started sailing with the Seafarers in 1968. He was originally employed aboard a U.S. Steel Corporation ship. Brother Barlow was a deck department member. He upgraded in 1968 at the SIU-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. Brother Barlow’s most recent ship was the OMI Wabash. He is a resident of Sussex, N.J. JOHN CARTOS Brother John Cartos, 66, signed on with the SIU in 1964 while in Norfolk, Va. He initially shipped on the Chatham. Brother Cartos, who sailed in the deck department, enhanced his skills on two occasions at the Paul Hall Center. He concluded his career aboard a Penn Maritime Inc. vessel. Brother Cartos lives in Norfolk. LEONCIO GONZALEZ Brother Leoncio Gonzalez, 68, joined the SIU ranks in 1991 in New York. His first ship was the Independence; his most recent, the Maersk Carolina. Brother Gonzalez worked in the steward department. He frequently took advantage of educational opportunities available at the Seafarers-affiliated school in Maryland. Brother Gonzalez was born in Honduras but calls Jacksonville, Fla., home. ARTHUR KENDALL Brother Arthur Kendall, 71, became an SIU member in 2001 when the NMU merged into the Seafarers International Union. He was last employed on the Sgt. William R. Button. Brother Kendall shipped in the steward department. He resides in Brooklyn, N.Y. Long Lines. Brother McCabe was born in Brooklyn, N.Y. and sailed in the engine department. He often attended classes at the union-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. Brother McCabe’s final ship was the Pfc. Eugene Al Obregon. He makes his home in Newport News, Va. JOHN SANCHEZ Brother John Sanchez, 65, was born in Wilmington, Calif. He became an SIU member in 1988, initially sailing on the Beaver State. Brother Sanchez worked in the deck department, most recently aboard the Green Point. In 1988 and 2011 he upgraded at the Piney Point school. Brother Sanchez lives in Tacoma, Wash. WILLIAM SCHUPPMAN Brother William Schuppman, 65, donned the SIU colors in 1995. He worked in both the deep sea and inland divisions. Brother Schuppman first sailed with Port Imperial Ferry. He shipped in the deck department. Brother Schuppman was a frequent upgrader at the maritime training center in Piney Point, Md. His most recent trip was on the Maersk Missouri. Brother Schuppman was born in New York City and settled in Port Saint Lucie, Fla. JUAN TORRES Brother Juan Torres, 65, started shipping with the union in 1994 while in Puerto Rico. His first voyage was aboard the Expedition; his most recent was on the American Tern. Brother Torres was born in Fajardo, P.R. On two occasions he attended classes at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Torres, a member of the deck department, resides in Hudson, Fla. INLAND JOHN MCCABE BILLY EPPS Brother John McCabe, 61, began sailing with the union in 1972. He initially shipped aboard the Brother Billy Epps, 61, joined the SIU in 1976 in the port of Baltimore. The engine depart- September 2013 15049_SEPT2013_LOG.indd 17 ment member was born in Maryland. Brother Epps primarily sailed with Moran Towing of Maryland. In 1981 and 2001, he upgraded at the Piney Point school. Brother Epps calls Parkton, Md., home. JOHN FRANCESCHI Brother John Franceschi, 64, signed on with the union in 1973. He initially shipped on an Interstate Oil Transportation Company vessel. Brother Franceschi’s most recent trip was with Mariner Towing. He makes his home in College Station, Texas. MICHAEL FURMAN Brother Michael Furman, 63, began his seafaring career in 1967 while in Baltimore. He mostly worked aboard OSG Ship Management vessels. Brother Furman is a Maryland native. He sailed in the engine department. Brother Furman lives in Baltimore. CHARLES HADLEY Brother Charles Hadley, 59, first donned the SIU colors in 1987. For the duration of his career he sailed with G&H Towing. Brother Hadley was born in Texas and sailed in the deck department. He attended classes on two occasions at the Seafarers-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. Brother Hadley is a resident of Paige, Texas. RUSSELL HUDSON Brother Russell Hudson, 55, joined the SIU in 1981. He sailed with Express Marine, Inc. for 25 years as mate aboard various tugboats. Brother Hudson finished his career with Maritrans/OSG, sailing as AB Tankerman for eight years in the Gulf of Mexico and the Delaware River. His most recent vessel was the OSG Horizon/351. Brother Hudson resides in Vandemere, N.C. BRUCE WERTS Brother Bruce Werts, 66, became a union member in 1998. He was originally employed with Riverboat Services. Brother Werts was a deck department member. In 2012, he enhanced his skills at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Werts last worked with Ameristar Casino East Chicago. He resides in Lake Ann, Mich. GREAT LAKES RONALD HALBERG Brother Ronald Halberg, 62, signed on with the SIU in 1971 while in Detroit. He mostly worked with Arnold Transit Company as a member of the deck department. Brother Halberg continues to live in his native state, Michigan. DANIEL HART Brother Daniel Hart, 59, was born in Michigan. He began sailing with the SIU in 1971. Brother Hart was primarily employed with Inland Lakes Management. He worked in both the engine and deck departments. Brother Hart settled in Alpena, Mich. This Month In SIU History Editor’s note: The following items are reprinted from previous editions of the Seafarers LOG. 1944 One of the most modern union halls in the country was officially opened last week by the SIU. The sixstory building at 51 Beaver Street will house both the New York branch and the Atlantic & Gulf District offices. The union occupies the top five floors with the shipping hall taking the entire second floor. The lounge, complete with card and writing tables, takes the third floor. The stewards’ offices and the baggage room, which offers free baggage checking for members in good standing, are on the fourth floor [while] branch offices, including the office of the Seafarers LOG, take up the fifth floor. Atlantic & Gulf District Headquarters comprise the top floor. The reaction of the membership to their new home has been very favorable. Commenting on the new building one Seafarer said, “From now on, we don’t have to take off our hat to nobody.” 1954 After keeping the entire maritime industry in suspense for over a week, President Eisenhower signed the permanent “50-50” bill into law. His action came just two days before the deadline for signing, which would have meant a pocket-veto for the measure. The president’s approval means a complete victory for the SIU, which has fought for seven years, along with other maritime groups, to put “50-50” into foreign aid appropriation bills year after year. With the passage of a permanent bill, the “50-50” principle in foreign aid is now firmly established, which assures American shipping 50 percent of all government cargo falling into that category. 1962 The SIU Medical Department reached a milestone recently when it was noted that the six clinics operating throughout the county have given more than 50,000 physical examinations to Seafarers and their dependents. Seafarers formed the bulk of those examined with more than 88 percent of the physicals, while dependents accounted for about 12 percent. SIU members normally take at least one complete physical examination each year as part of the program of preventative medicine for which the entire clinic operation was set up. Clinics are operating in New York, New Orleans, Mobile, Baltimore, Houston and Puerto Rico. 1968 The SIU Welfare and Vacation plans have now paid out more than $100 million in benefits. The plan was first launched in 1950 and, since that time, more than $41.5 million has been paid out for hospital, death, disability, maternity, dependent, optical and out-patient benefits. In February 1952, the SIU Vacation Plan was inaugurated and it has since paid more than $59.4 million in vacation benefits for SIU members. The total value of welfare benefits is actually considerably higher, since the cost of scholarship payments, mealbooks, training facilities and medical examinations – for SIU members and their dependents – are not included in the above figures. Seafarers LOG 17 8/22/2013 5:13:52 PM �Final Departures DEEP SEA ACYLEE BROOKS Pensioner Acylee Brooks, 78, passed away Jan. 10. Brother Brooks began sailing with the union in 1952. He was born in Mobile, Ala. and originally worked on the Strath Bay. Brother Brooks was a member of the steward department. Before retiring in 1998, he sailed on the Liberator. Brother Brooks made his home in Moreno Valley, Calif. PERRY GREENWOOD Pensioner Perry Greenwood, 79, passed away Feb. 1. Born in Seattle, he began sailing with the union in 1951. Brother Greenwood first sailed on the Choctaw. He was a deck department member. Brother Greenwood’s final ship was the Reliance. He retired in 1998 and was a resident of Yuma, Ariz. TEDDY LANE Pensioner Teddy Lane, 89, died Jan. 26. He became a union member in 1951 in Wilmington, Calif. Brother Lane’s first vessel was operated by Tiger Steamship Ltd.; his last ship was the Freedom. He was a native of Indiana and sailed in the deck department. Brother Lane went on pension in 1985 and resided in Shoreline, Wash. GEORGE LUGO Pensioner George Lugo, 78, died Feb. 7. He signed on with the SIU in 1959. Brother Lugo’s earliest trip was with Marine Carrier Corporation. He was a member of the deck department. Brother Lugo most recently shipped aboard the Overseas Philadelphia. He began collecting his pension in 1995. Brother Lugo called Pearland, Texas, home. JOSEPH MORRISON Pensioner Joseph Morrison, 83, passed away Feb. 13. He donned the SIU colors in 1960 while in the port of New York. Brother Morrison initially sailed with Interocean American Shipping Corporation. He was born in Iowa and shipped in the deck department. Brother Morrison last 18 Seafarers LOG 15049_SEPT2013_LOG.indd 18 worked aboard the LNG Taurus. He started receiving compensation for his retirement in 1992. Brother Morrison lived in Sea Level, N.C. JOHN PRATT Pensioner John Pratt, 83, died Feb. 17. Brother Pratt joined the Marine Cooks & Stewards in 1972 while in the port of San Francisco. His first ship was the Santa Maria; his last, the Moku Pahu. Brother Pratt was born in New Hampshire. He started collecting his pension in 1995 and called Maupin, Ore., home. FRANZ SCHWARZ Pensioner Franz Schwarz, 79, passed away Feb. 18. Brother Schwarz started shipping with the union in 1956. He first worked with Isco Inc. Brother Schwarz was a member of the deck department. Prior to his retirement in 1991, he sailed on the OMI Charger. Brother Schwarz was born in Germany; he made his home in Highland, Texas. JOSEPH SMITH Pensioner Joseph Smith, 74, died Feb. 20. Brother Smith was born in North Carolina. He started his SIU career in 1962. Brother Smith was a steward department member. He originally shipped on a Waterman Steamship Corporation vessel. Brother Smith’s final vessel was the Ascension. He went on pension in 2005 and was a resident of Dunnigan, Calif. WILLIAM SMITH Pensioner William Smith, 75, passed away Feb. 10. He began sailing with the SIU in 1961. Brother Smith was originally employed aboard the Edith. He was born in Rockville, Md., and primarily worked in the engine department. Brother Smith’s last trip was on the Stephen W. Pless. He called Gettysburg, Pa., home. SEE WONG Brother See Wong, 82, died Feb. 28. He became a union member in 1969 while in the Port of San Francisco. Brother Wong’s earliest trip was aboard the President Eisenhower. The steward department member last worked on the Lurline. Brother Wong resided in San Francisco. INLAND CHARLES BROWN Brother Charles Brown, 52, passed away Feb. 20. He first donned the SIU colors in 2006. Brother Brown’s first voyage was aboard a Penn Maritime Inc. vessel. He was a member of the deck department. Brother Brown’s final trip was with OSG Ship Management. He made his home in Beaufort, N.C. JOSE CARBALLO Pensioner Jose Carballo, 81, died Feb. 8. Brother Carballo was born in Spain. He joined the union in 1983, primarily working with New York Cross Harbor. The deck department member started collecting his pension in 1993. He was a resident of Woodside, N.Y. DOMENICO CHIODI Pensioner Domenico Chiodi, 74, passed away Jan. 23. Brother Chiodi signed on with the SIU in 1983. He was employed with New York Cross Harbor for the duration of his career. Brother Chiodi, a member of the deck department, became a pensioner in 1992. He was born in Italy and made his home in Bronx, N.Y. PRESTON MILLER Pensioner Preston Miller, 77, died Feb. 21. Brother Miller started sailing with the Seafarers in 1963. He shipped with Dravo Basic Materials Company. The Mississippiborn mariner began receiving compensation for his retirement in 1997. Brother Miller settled in Saraland, Ala. LINDA RICHERSON Pensioner Linda Richerson, 73, passed away Nov. 24. Born in Bell City, Ky., Sister Richerson became an SIU member in 1996. She mostly shipped with Orgulf Transport Company. Sister Richerson, a member of the steward department, went on pension in 2011 and resided in Dexter, Ky. Editor’s note: The following brothers, all former members of the National Maritime Union (NMU), have passed away. ANTONIO ADORNO Pensioner Antonio Adorno, 92, died Jan. 29. Brother Adorno was born in Corazal, P.R. He went on pension in 1983. Brother Adorno made his home in New York. LEROY CHAPMAN Pensioner Leroy Chapman, 93, passed away Jan. 6. Brother Chapman, a native of Charleston, S.C., started collecting his retirement compensation in 1975. He lived in Port Arthur, Texas. JORGE CRUZ Pensioner Jorge Cruz, 93, died Dec. 31. Born in Honduras, Brother Cruz became a pensioner in 1982. He called Corpus Christi, Texas, home. TAKEO EKIMURA Pensioner Takeo Ekimura, 92, passed away Jan. 31. Brother Ekimura was born in Hawaii. He retired in 1971 and resided in Florida. MADISON FONTENOT Pensioner Madison Fontenot, 89, died Jan. 2. Brother Fontenot was a native of Duralde, La. He began receiving his pension in 1967. Brother Fontenot lived in Mamou, La. TIMOTHY GLYNN Pensioner Timothy Glynn, 84, passed away Dec. 5. Brother Glynn, a native of Portland, Maine, went on pension in 1973. He made his home in Taft, Texas. MARCUS HOPKINS Pensioner Marcus Hopkins, 77, died Jan. 9. Born in the Cayman Islands, Brother Hopkins started receiving his retirement compensation in 1986. He lived in Homestead, Fla. JULIUS MCCRAY Pensioner Julius McCray, 87, passed away Feb. 1. Brother McCray was born in South Carolina. He retired in 1981 and settled in Virginia Beach, Va. NORMAN MCFIELD Pensioner Norman McField, 87, died Feb. 15. Brother McField, a native of the Caymans Islands, started collecting his retirement compensation in 1967. He lived in Brooklyn, N.Y. Paul was a native of Clinton, Maine. He became a pensioner in 1966 and called Benton, Maine, home. MANUEL PINTOR Pensioner Manuel Pintor, 83, passed away Jan. 21. Brother Pintor, a native of Texas, began collecting his pension in 1991. He resided in San Antonio. JOHN PIVOVARNIK Pensioner John Pivovarnik, 86, died Feb. 25. Born in Bayonne, N.J., Brother Pivovarnik went on pension in 1988. He continued to live in New Jersey. VICTOR SERRANO Pensioner Victor Serrano, 90, passed away March 10. Brother Serrano was born in Puerto Rico. He retired in 1967 and was a resident of Orlando, Fla. JACOB SIMMONDS Pensioner Jacob Simmonds, 90, died Jan. 30. Brother Simmonds was born in St. Croix, V.I. He became a pensioner in 1985. Brother Simmonds called Willingboro, N.J., home. HARVEY SLAUGHTER Pensioner Harvey Slaughter, 83, passed away March 8. Brother Slaughter, a native of Berwyn, Ill., went on pension in 1994. He settled in Reserve, La. PETER STESNEY Pensioner Peter Stesney, 87, passed away Dec. 27. Brother Stesney was born in Pennsylvania. He began collecting compensation for his retirement in 1990. Brother Stesney made his home in Allentown, Pa. HANS STOCKFISCH Pensioner Hans Stockfisch, 92, died Jan. 29. Born in Germany, Brother Stockfisch started receiving his pension in 1977. He lived in Boca Raton, Fla. DONATO TANDOC Pensioner Donato Tandoc, 86, died Oct. 19. Brother Tandoc began receiving his retirement pay in 1992. He was a resident of Vallejo, Calif. MERLON PAUL Pensioner Merlon Paul, 89, passed away Jan. 13. Brother September 2013 8/22/2013 5:13:54 PM �Digest of Shipboard Union Meetings MAERSK WYOMING (Maersk Line, Limited), May 25 – Chairman James Blitch, Secretary Lauren J. Oram, Educational Director David Vega, Deck Delegate Emilio Abreu, Engine Delegate James Sieger, Steward Delegate Richard Oliva. Chairman discussed re-flagging procedures with crew members. Secretary reminded everyone to defrost refrigerators in rooms and return excess cleaning gear to gear locker. Educational director suggested mariners upgrade at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. He also talked about the importance of obtaining a rating to be competitive when jobs are tight. Treasurer reported money in ship’s fund, from safety awards, will be transferred to Maersk Memphis by captain. Deck delegate expressed concerns regarding protocols with security team. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Members were urged to go online to www.seafarers.org for current events while at sea. Steward was thanked for great meals and homemade bread. Next port: Jebel Ali. ALASKAN LEGEND (Alaska Tanker Company), June 23 – Chairman Alvin Martin, Secretary Just B. Self, Educational Director Jeremias M. Cepeda, Deck Delegate Woodrow Brown, Steward Delegate Johnson Ashun. Bosun discussed new health clinic system. Secretary spoke about the significance of attending SIU union meetings aboard ship. Educational director recommended members further training at the Piney Point school. Deck delegate posted a copy of new standard tanker agreement. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Alaskan Legend donated a brick to the new waterfront park in Piney With Seafarers Aboard the Horizon Spirit Recertified Bosun Gerry Gianan emailed these photos from a recent voyage on the Horizon Spirit. Pictured from left to right in the photo at right are Chief Cook Susano Cortez, Chief Steward Susan Bowman and SA Reno Duque. Cortez is also pictured at left. The remaining photos show AB Leo Bognoson (above), holding the scaling machine and AB Harold Harper (above, right), who “built this awesome table for the SIU laundry room,” the bosun reports. Point. Crew requested a Vitamix machine. Next port: Long Beach, Calif. EAGLE (Maersk Line, Limited), June 2 – Chairman Samuel M. Uyatede, Secretary Johnnie B. McGill, Engine Delegate James Corprew, Steward Delegate Marcus Logan. Chairman reported smooth sailing. Secretary noted fresh provisions have been received. Educational director encouraged fellow mariners to separate garbage, plastic and paper. He also suggested crew take advantage of courses available at maritime training center in Piney Point. Treasurer reported $1,400 in Seafarer Earns Safety Award OMU Arthur “Buddy” Marshall (right) recently earned a cash award as part of the ongoing safety program conducted by SIU-contracted Maersk Line, Limited. Chief Engineer Dicky Collins (left) presented the award aboard the Alliance Richmond. Marshall was credited for setting “an exceptional example of crew safety awareness. He is dedicated to his own safety and the safety of his fellow shipmates at all times.” In a specific recent instance, Marshall helped report and repair a faulty grinder guard. September 2013 15049_SEPT2013_LOG.indd 19 The Seafarers LOG attempts to print as many digests of union shipboard minutes as possible. On occasion, because of space limitations, some will be omitted. Ships’ minutes first are reviewed by the union’s contract department. Those issues requiring attention or resolution are addressed by the union upon receipt of the ships’ minutes. The minutes are then forwarded to the Seafarers LOG for publication. ship’s fund. Beef reported in engine department; no disputed OT. Crew thanked steward department for a job well done. Seafarers were reminded to keep doors closed to keep AC working properly. MAERSK KENTUCKY (Maersk Line, Limited), June 23 – Chairman Eugene Perez Jr., Secretary Wayne R. Wilson, Educational Director Brian J. Sengelaub, Deck Delegate Peter Wojcikowski. Chairman noted vessel sailed short June 8-16 due to a death in AB’s family. He reported an overall good trip. Educational director reiterated the need to wear personal protective equipment. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Request was made for new fans and refrigerator. Crew expressed gratitude to steward department for outstanding meals, especially with extra people aboard. Next port: Newark, N.J. MAERSK MEMPHIS (Maersk Line, Limited), June 21 – Chairman Frank L. Thompson, Secretary Elena Lee, Steward Delegate Saeed Alahmadi. Chairman talked about ship’s recent re-flag and upcoming repairs. Ship fund money to be used to purchase satellite system. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Communication received and discussed about functional capacity evaluation. It was noted that Maersk Memphis is new to the Maersk fleet and the union. Crew discussed need for re-supply of tools and stores. Next port: Charleston, S.C. MAERSK MISSOURI (Maersk Line, Limited), June 16 – Chairman Cecil M. Yearwood, Secretary Glenn C. Bamman, Educational Director Jerome D. Culbreth, Deck Delegate Juan Gomez Jr., Engine Delegate Roger A. Nesbeth, Steward Delegate Abdul Saleh. Bosun reported good voyage and morale among members. He thanked crew for their hard work. Secretary asked crew to leave cabins clean for reliefs. Educational director urged all mariners to keep necessary documents current and enhance skills at Piney Point school. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Votes of thanks given to steward department, electrician and all ABs. Next ports: Elizabeth, N.J., Charleston, S.C., Savannah, Ga., Houston and Mobile, Ala. OVERSEAS BOSTON (OSG Ship Management), June 21 – Chairman Richard A. Szabo, Secretary Gary W. Loftin, Educational Director Thomas P. Bain. Chairman led discussion on different watchstanding schedules. Educational director reminded fellow members about importance of upgrading at Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew would like TV in all member rooms and also access to internet. RACER (Maersk Line, Limited), June 7 – Chairman Hanapiah Ismail, Secretary Michael A. Carello, Educational Director Michael D. Murphy, Deck Delegate Timothy Brock, Steward Delegate Manuel Daquio. Bosun thanked steward department for great meals and reported a smooth trip. Secretary reported great crew to sail with. Educational director reminded fellow members to keep an eye on document expiration dates, allow plenty of time for renewals and pay dues ahead of time. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Clarification requested on physical requirements. It was noted this was last meeting for the Racer; Maersk Atlanta will be new vessel. OVERSEAS ANACORTES (OSG Ship Management), July 9 – Chairman Felsher A. Beasley, Secretary John J. Fallon, Educational Director Earl Olson, Engine Delegate Marco Oliva. Chairman advised mariners to maintain good health, exercise when possible, eat healthy and stay hydrated. Everyone was encouraged to take advantage of Paul Hall Center and support SIU. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew members talked about Crowley’s new ships. Seafarers LOG 19 8/22/2013 5:13:58 PM �Letters to the Editor Grateful Scholarship Winner To all those involved in the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan Scholarship, I am writing this letter, first and foremost, to sincerely thank you for making an investment in my academic journey at Seton Hall University. Secondly, I wanted to discuss the return on your investment – or in other words, the success I have enjoyed because of your support. In doing so, I wanted to make it clear that your investment was put to good use. I am proud to say that I graduated Summa Cum Laude in my class, which means I graduated in the top one percent. Additionally, I received a Departmental Honors Citation in finance and a Certificate of Achievement in legal studies, again, for having the highest GPA in both disciplines. Moreover, I am currently working at Nowell Amoroso Klein Bierman, a law firm in Hackensack, N.J. Suffice to say, I did quite well in my academic career and it carried over into my actual career. However, none of it would have been possible if the people from the Seafarers did not take a chance to help me. Accordingly, it is with great enthusiasm that I can say I followed the example set forth by the union during my academic journey. For example, I utilized my strength in writing to help students improve their writing skills by tutoring at the writing center at the university. In addition, I used my interest in legal studies to become a teacher’s assistant and continue to help aid the education of my peers. My service stretched past academics as well. During one summer of college, I went to India to volunteer at an orphanage in Mumbai. While I was there, I worked on developing the writing skills of those orphans. Just as the Seafarers invested in me, I did the same with these orphans. My college career was predicated on opportunities given to me by others, so to deny the less fortunate of similar opportunities would be a waste of their potential. Ultimately, the contribution of the Seafarers International Union and the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan did more than just allow me to graduate with success and recognition; it taught me that in order to fully realize the opportunities given to me, I, too, must distribute opportunities for others. Just as the Seafarers can have a level of satisfaction in knowing their investment paid off, I can do the same by knowing that I, in some way, have helped my peers, whether through their legal classes or their writing ability. Moreover, I hope to go back to India to witness the return on the Letters may be edited for conciseness and clarity. Submissions may be mailed to 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746 or e-mailed to webmaster@seafarers.org. investment with the orphans I worked with. I truly appreciate your investment in my academic career and I hope to take these lessons you have taught me and carry them over into my actual career. Jeffrey X. Monteiro (Son of Frank J. Monteiro) Millington, New Jersey He Likes the LOG Just a quick note of thanks for the Seafarers LOG. Although I am retired (didn’t retire in the SIU), I like to keep up with American shipping issues. I will never forget my eight years sailing as AB in the deck department. Living in an area where most people think the U.S. Merchant Marine is some sort of branch of the Marine Corps (how many have been through that one?), I usually try to leave my copy of the LOG (after reading) in some public space such as a doctor’s office or the barber shop for others to look at it. I have always thought that it would be worthwhile to add information, photos and explanations of what life is like aboard various ships – perhaps show and describe a typical day in the life of a member of each department. I did purchase the history publication a year or so ago (the book “America’s Seafarers”) and enjoyed reading that. Once again, thanks for the publication and keep up the good work. Jerry Lopez Georgiana, Alabama Staten Island, N.Y., or anywhere else. Today, we assist mariners in their home communities, where they are familiar and more likely to be near family and friends. Please help us reach out to those retired mariners who may be in need of assistance. We offer support to career mariners who can demonstrate that they have a need for financial assistance and meet the following requirements: 3,650 days of deep-sea time proven through discharge papers (at least 50 percent on U.S.-flag ships) 65 years of age or older (exceptions may be made in rare cases) Proven need for financial assistance Assets may not exceed $50,000 (primary residence excluded) All public benefits available to an eligible mariner must be accessed before any subsidy from SSH is approved (e.g., VA benefits, Medicaid). Each mariner must complete an application that requires detailed information about present living arrangements and financial history. If you have questions or are in need of assistance, please call our mariner counselor at 1-888-257-5456. Our website – www.thesailorssnugharbor.org – includes our application. If you do not have access to a computer, please call and we will send you an application. Rae Linefsky SSH Executive Director New York, New York Former Seafarer Perry Ellis painted this picture of an old tanker. Former Mariner Solicits Help for Merchant Seamen from Above Sailors’ Snug Harbor Offers Assistance Sailors’ Snug Harbor (SSH) is the oldest secular charity in the country, assisting mariners across the nation. We have learned that there are many eligible mariners who are unaware of our possible assistance and we are clearly aware that there are many who meet all of the eligibility requirements, including financial need. SSH no longer owns or operates a retirement facility for mariners in Sea Level, N.C., Not too long ago, I wrote a letter to Pope Francis. I also sent him a print of the picture of a T-2 tanker I was on in 1967. We sailed out of Houston loaded with grain bound for India. The cargo went to the poor and hungry people of India. It took us 48 days at 11 knots to get there. We were the last American ship to clear the Suez Canal before the Six-Day War started. I painted a picture of the ship on a piece of cardboard, using the paints from the ship’s paint locker. The school in Maryland has a real one in the museum. I asked the Pope to say a prayer for all the merchant seamen from long ago and today, never mind what country they were or are from. As I understand from the letter sent to me by Monsignor Wells, the print was accepted and His Holiness will remember merchant seamen in his prayers. Perry Ellis Galveston, Texas Know Your Rights FINANCIAL REPORTS. The Constitution of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters makes specific provision for safeguarding the membership’s money and union finances. The constitution requires a detailed audit by certified public accountants every year, which is to be submitted to the membership by the secretary-treasurer. A yearly finance committee of rank-and-file members, elected by the membership, each year examines the finances of the union and reports fully their findings and recommendations. Members of this committee may make dissenting reports, specific recommendations and separate findings. TRUST FUNDS. All trust funds of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters are administered in accordance with the provisions of various trust fund agreements. All these agreements specify that the trustees in charge of these funds shall equally consist of union and management representatives and their alternates. All expenditures and disbursements of trust funds are made only upon approval by a majority of the trustees. All trust fund financial records are available at the headquarters of the various trust funds. SHIPPING RIGHTS. A member’s shipping rights and seniority are protected exclusively by contracts between the union and the employers. Members should get to know their shipping rights. Copies of these contracts are posted and available in all union halls. If members believe there have been violations of their shipping or seniority rights as contained in the contracts between the union and the employers, they should notify the Seafarers Appeals Board by certified mail, return receipt 20 Seafarers LOG 15049_SEPT2013_LOG_X.indd 20 requested. The proper address for this is: Augustin Tellez, Chairman Seafarers Appeals Board 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 Full copies of contracts as referred to are available to members at all times, either by writing directly to the union or to the Seafarers Appeals Board. CONTRACTS. Copies of all SIU contracts are available in all SIU halls. These contracts specify the wages and conditions under which an SIU member works and lives aboard a ship or boat. Members should know their contract rights, as well as their obligations, such as filing for overtime (OT) on the proper sheets and in the proper manner. If, at any time, a member believes that an SIU patrolman or other union official fails to protect their contractual rights properly, he or she should contact the nearest SIU port agent. EDITORIAL POLICY — THE SEAFARERS LOG. The Seafarers LOG traditionally has refrained from publishing any article serving the political purposes of any individual in the union, officer or member. It also has refrained from publishing articles deemed harmful to the union or its collective membership. This established policy has been reaffirmed by membership action at the September 1960 meetings in all constitutional ports. The responsibility for Sea­farers LOG policy is vested in an editorial board which consists of the executive board of the union. The executive board may delegate, from among its ranks, one individual to carry out this responsibility. PAYMENT OF MONIES. No monies are to be paid to anyone in any official capacity in the SIU unless an official union receipt is given for same. Under no circumstances should any member pay any money for any reason unless he is given such receipt. In the event anyone attempts to require any such payment be made without supplying a receipt, or if a member is required to make a payment and is given an official receipt, but feels that he or she should not have been required to make such payment, this should immediately be reported to union headquarters. CONSTITUTIONAL RIGHTS AND OBLIGATIONS. Copies of the SIU Constitution are available in all union halls. All members should obtain copies of this constitution so as to familiarize themselves with its contents. Any time a member feels any other member or officer is attempting to deprive him or her of any constitutional right or obligation by any methods, such as dealing with charges, trials, etc., as well as all other details, the member so affected should immediately notify headquarters. EQUAL RIGHTS. All members are guaranteed equal rights in employment and as members of the SIU. These rights are clearly set forth in the SIU Constitution and in the contracts which the union has negotiated with the employers. Conse­quently, no member may be discriminated against because of race, creed, color, sex, national or geographic origin. If any member feels that he or she is denied the equal rights to which he or she is entitled, the member should notify union headquarters. SEAFARERS POLITICAL ACTIVITY DONATION (SPAD). SPAD is a separate segregated fund. Its proceeds are used to further its objects and purposes including, but not limited to, furthering the political, social and economic interests of maritime workers, the preservation and furthering of the American merchant marine with improved employment opportunities for seamen and boatmen and the advancement of trade union concepts. In connection with such objects, SPAD supports and contributes to political candidates for elective office. All contributions are voluntary. No contribution may be solicited or received because of force, job discrimination, financial reprisal, or threat of such conduct, or as a condition of membership in the union or of employment. If a contribution is made by reason of the above improper conduct, the member should notify the Seafarers International Union or SPAD by certified mail within 30 days of the contribution for investigation and appropriate action and refund, if involuntary. A member should support SPAD to protect and further his or her economic, political and social interests, and American trade union concepts. NOTIFYING THE UNION — If at any time a member feels that any of the above rights have been violated, or that he or she has been denied the constitutional right of access to union records or information, the member should immediately notify SIU President Michael Sacco at headquarters by certified mail, return receipt requested. The address is: Michael Sacco, President Seafarers International Union 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746. September 2013 8/23/2013 6:35:33 PM �Paul Hall Center Upgrading Course Information The following is a schedule of courses at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md., for the next few months. All programs are geared toward improving the job skills of Seafarers and promoting the American maritime industry. Please note that this schedule may change to reflect the needs of the membership, the maritime industry and—in times of conflict—national security. Students attending any of these classes should check in the Saturday before their course’s start date. The courses listed here will begin promptly on the morning of the start dates. For classes ending on a Friday, departure reservations should be made for Saturday. Seafarers who have any questions regarding the upgrading courses offered at the Paul Hall Center may call the admissions office at (301) 994-0010. Title of Start Date of Course Date Completion Deck Department Lifeboatman/Water Survival September 14 September 27 October 12 October 25 November 9 November 22 December 7 December 20 STOS (RFPNW) September 14 October 11 November 9 December 6 Able Seaman October 12 November 8 November 16 December 13 Radar Renewal (One day) December 16 December 16 Radar Observer September 7 September 20 ARPA September 21 September 27 Engine Department Title of Start Date of Course Date Completion Basic Firefighting/STCW October 19 October 25 November 16 November 22 BST Renewal/VPDSD September 21 September 27 October 26 November 1 November 2 November 8 November 30 December 6 December 7 December 13 Government Vessels September 14 September 20 October 12 October 18 November 9 November 15 Medical Care Provider September 21 September 27 December 7 December 13 Tank PIC Barge (DL) October 14 October 18 Small Arms Training October 19 October 25 Steward Department Upgrading Courses Chief Steward October 5 November 15 Serve Safe November 23 November 29 Galley Operations These modules start every Monday. Chief Cook These modules start every other week. The next class will begin September 16. Advanced Galley Operations These modules start every Monday. Basic Auxiliary Plant Operations (BAPO) September 14 October 11 FOWT October 12 November 8 Junior Engineer October 26 December 20 The National Maritime Center NMC Website Provides Useful Mariner Resources (NMC), the licensing authority for Marine Refer Tech September 28 November 8 the U.S. Coast Guard, offers a comprehensive website covering mariner Pumpman November 30 December 13 credentialing, medical guidelines and much more. The site features a wide Welding September 14 October 4 range of applications and forms, deck- and engine-department exam October 26 November 15 information, lists of Coast Guard-ap November 30 December 20 proved courses and more. Seafarers Safety Upgrading Courses Advanced Firefighting September 14 September 20 Basic Firefighting/STCW September 7 September 13 UPGRADING APPLICATION Name_________________________________________________________________________ Address_______________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________ Telephone (Home)_________________________ (Cell)_________________________ Date of Birth___________________________________________________________________ Deep Sea Member o Lakes Member o Inland Waters Member o are encouraged to check out the site at: http://www.uscg.mil/nmc/ Mariners may call the NMC at 1-888-IASKNMC (1-888-427-5662). Operational hours are 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. EST, Monday through Friday. (The NMC is closed for all federal holidays.) Various email forms also are available through the NMC website. Students who have registered for classes at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, but later discover - for whatever reason - that they can’t attend, should inform the admissions department immediately so arrangements can be made to have other students take their places. COURSE ____________________________ START DATE _______________ DATE OF COMPLETION _______________________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________________ If the following information is not filled out completely, your application will not be processed. Social Security #_______________________ Book #__________________________________ Seniority_____________________________ Department_____________________________ Home Port____________________________________________________________________ E-mail_______________________________________________________________________ Endorsement(s) or License(s) now held_____________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________ Are you a graduate of the SHLSS/PHC trainee program? o Yes o No If yes, class #___________________________________________________________________ Have you attended any SHLSS/PHC upgrading courses? o Yes o No If yes, course(s) taken____________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________ NOTE: Transportation will be paid in accordance with the scheduling letter only if you present original receipts and successfully complete the course. If you have any questions, contact your port agent before departing for Piney Point. Not all classes are reimbursable.Return completed application to: Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education Admissions Office, P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674-0075; or fax to (301) 994-2189. With this application, COPIES of the following must be sent: One hundred and twenty-five (125) days seatime for the previous year, one day in the last six months prior to the date your class starts, USMMD (z-card) front and back or relevant pages of merchant mariner credential, front page of your union book indicating your department and seniority, qualifying seatime for the course if it is Coast Guard tested, 1995 STCW Certificate, valid SHBP Clinic Card and TWIC. The Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education is a private, non-profit, equal opportunity institution and admits students, who are otherwise qualified, of any race, nationality or sex. The school complies with applicable laws with regard to admission, access or treatment of students in its programs or activities. 9/13 September 2013 15049_SEPT2013_LOG.indd 21 LAST VESSEL: ___________________________________ Rating: ____________________ Date On: _______________________________ Date Off:____________________________ SIGNATURE ____________________________________ DATE______________________ Seafarers LOG 21 8/22/2013 5:13:59 PM �Paul Hall Center Classes Apprentice Water Survival Class #774 – The following Phase I trainees (above, in alphabetical order) graduated from this course July 5: Joseph Bowen, Danielle Brown, Rodney Carr, Michael Cox, Jonamie Encarnacion, Ryan Gallano, Nicholas Garcia IV, Sarah Gray, Terrance Jackson, J. Michael Nardella, Jaquel Nesmith, Roy Patterson, Annie Scott, George Steube and Brian Thurmer. Class Instructor Ben Cusic is at the far left. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Apprentice Water Survival Class #775 – Fifteen trainees completed their requirements in this course Aug. 2. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order)were: Zachary Blake, Daniel Boye, Kierra Burton, Dean Crisostomo, Buzz Engelke, Julian Head, Cynora Hunter, David Lane III, Sterling McCosh, Karl Mosley, Joshua Puto, John Reyes, Nicholas Selle, Eric Waters and Rynesha Westbrook. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Welding – Three upgraders graduated from this course July 19. Completing their requirements (above, in alphabetical order) were: Maurice Brodie, Kassim Mohamed and David Quade. Class Instructor Buzzy Andrews is at the far right. FOWT – Twelve individuals completed their requirements in this course July 12. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Justin Biggerstaff, Rodolfo Caldo, Leonardo Cortez, Elliot Duncan, Eric Garcia, Jason Horn, Joshua Moton, Corey Sanders, Joshua Schwarz, Grant Simonson, Ryan Taylor and Jose Vega. Class Instructor Tim Achorn is second from the right. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Advanced Refrigeration Container Maintenance – The following upgraders (above, in alphabetical order) finished this course July 26: Jonathyn Bland, Abner Diaz Torres, Archie Eldridge, Stravon Jordon, Jan Morawski and Steve Wilson. Class Instructor Jay Henderson is at the far left in the back row. Medical Care Provider – Ten upgraders graduated from this course July 26. Completing their requirements (above, in alphabetical order) were: Christopher Allen, Carlton Banks, John Cedeno Jr., Felix Garcia, Timothy Heil, Derek Ivory, Jeffery Roddy, William Soileau, Ryan Taylor and Jesse Tornabene. Mike Roberts, their instructor, is at the far left. Government Vessels – Twenty-two Seafarers completed the enhancement of their skills in this course July 26. Those graduating (right, in alphabetical order) were: David Arcilla, Dimitri Baker, Gregorio Cudal, Jules Delgado, Ely Desingano, Bernardino Eda, Walden Galagac, Sherry Griffin, Daniel Heintz Jr., Johnathan Howard, Letwan Jackson, Samuel Javier, Isaka Koanda, Sabrina Long, John McBentum, Eileen Mendiola, Edgar Parong, Jumar Rapuet, Jacqueline Sivels, Jacob Teiko, Andrezej Tlaka and Andrew VanBourg. (Note: Not all are pictured.) 22 Seafarers LOG 15049_SEPT2013_LOG.indd 22 September 2013 8/22/2013 5:14:03 PM �Paul Hall Center Classes Tankship Familiarization DL – Twenty-four Phase III trainees graduated from this course July 14. Completing their requirements (left, in alphabetical order) were: Kasim Ahmed, Alvin Cabahit, James Demarco, Charles Elam, Curtis Everett, Sean Foote, Joshua Freeland, Jacob Gaskill, John Greggs, Karleen Grenier, Cody Kingsford, Jon Mahannah, Whalen Martin, Raymond Martinez, LeDaron McIntosh, Nicholas Panagakos, Joshua Rawls, James Rodweller, Durham Russell, Chase Smith, Mario Standberry, Nicole Stephenson, Brandon Thorton, and Christopher Vanhoose. Important Notice For Paul Hall Center Students Students who have registered for classes at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, but later discover - for whatever reason - that they can’t attend, should inform the admissions department immediately so arrangements can be made to have other students take their places. Able Seaman – The following individuals (above, in alphabetical order) graduated from this course August 2: Pedro Abuda, Jeffrey Angeles, Gary Congden, Ryan Lindsoe, Matthew Schmitz, George Steube, Freddie Taylor, Jessie Ticer and Slawomir Tlalka. Class Instructor Bernabe Pelingon is at the far right. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Water Survival Class #774 – Seafarer Walden Galacgac (above) completed this 60-hour course July 5. His instructor was Ben Cusic. Combined Basic and Advanced Firefighting – Nine upgraders finished their requirements in this course July 19. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Joseph Allotey, Timothy Heil, Derek Ivory, Scott Palen, Jeffery Roddy, Nicole Snick, William Soileau, Ryan Taylor and Jesse Tornabene. Class Instructors Wayne Johnson Sr., and Wayne Johnson Jr., are at the far left and far right respectively. Bridge Team Training – Nine individuals completed this course July 19. Those graduating above, in no particular order) were: Igor Loch Jr., James Russell, Lavern McDowell Sr., Bruce Bonnecarrere Jr., John Bilich Sr., Alfred Sanderson, Antonio Carrerro Jr., Kevin McCown and Hussein Hussein. Class Instructor Mitch Oakley is at the far right in the back row. Steward Department Classes – Four upgraders recently completed steward department courses. Those graduating and the courses they completed (above, in alphabetical order) were: Chris King, chief cook; Sabrina Long, galley operations, Stephen Nowell, chief cook; and Edward Smigielski, chief cook. September 2013 15049_SEPT2013_LOG.indd 23 Steward Department Classes – Two Seafarers recently finished courses in the steward department. Emie Aguinaldo (above, left) graduated from the chief cook class, while Troy Smith completed his requirements in the advanced galley operations class. Seafarers LOG 23 8/22/2013 5:14:06 PM �Volume 75, Number 9 September 2013 Paul Hall Center Course Dates Page 21 Aboard the SIU-Crewed Maersk Ohio Photo by Will Van Dorp Maersk Ohio Returns to Norfolk Following Mediterranean Voyage Clockwise from the top, the Maersk Ohio makes its approach to a port. Aboard the vessel are Recertified Bosun Jim Joyce and UA Guy Delyea. QMED William Harrison is on the job in the engine room while Recertified Bosun Brian Corbett, Joyce and AB Damon Lobel pose for an off-duty photo while on deck. Joyce shows off his catch of the day while AB Bernie Bernardez mans his post on the helm in the vessel’s wheelhouse. 15049_SEPT2013_LOG.indd 24 The SIU-crewed Maersk Ohio recently returned to its home port in Norfolk, Va., following its completion of a Mediterranean voyage. Operated by union-contracted Maersk, Line Limited, the Ohio is one of 21 container vessels in the company’s seagoing fleet. These platforms, which range in capacity from approximately 1,090 to 4,800 TEUs, provide weekly service between the United States, the Middle East, Northern Europe and Asia. The crew photos appearing on this page were provided by Recertified Bosun Jim “Crown Jewel” Joyce, one of the LOG’s many faithful stringers who also are top-notch mariners. All brothers and sisters are encouraged to follow Joyce’s example and send photos of their vessels and shipmates on their respective jobs for publication in the Seafarers LOG. 8/22/2013 5:14:11 PM � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Seafarers Log Issues 2010-2019 Description An account of the resource Volumes LXXII-LXXXI of the Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Seafarers Log Digital Copies Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 2010-2019 Document A resource containing textual data. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre text. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource September 2013 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES CROWLEY ORDERS NEW TANKERS CONSTRUCTION AGREEMENT CALLS FOR UP TO 8 JONES ACT VESSELS BOSUNS SEE WORLDS OF OPPORTUNITIES IN SIU, PAUL HALL CENTER HARLEY MARINE CHRISTENS NEW TUG LABOR BOARD FINALLY HAS FULL MEMBERSHIP UNION-CONTRACTED CROWLEY ORDERS NEW TANKERS NEW CROWLEY TUGS GOING STRONG MARINER ‘BILL OF RIGHTS’ TAKES EFFECT INTERNATIONAL MARITIME LABOR TEAMS UP FOR GREAT CAUSE ‘POKER RUN’ NETS THOUSANDS FOR PORT ARTHUR SEAFARERS CENTER U.S. REPRESENTATIVE HUNTER STANDS UP FOR MARITIME SIU TAKES MARITIME MESSAGE TO DOT, CONGRESS GREAT LAKES WELCOMES NEW SEAWAY ADMINISTRATOR UNIONS, OPERATORS, SCHOOL TEAM UP FOR WELLNESS PROJECT RESEARCH OFFERS REMINDER OF SEAFARERS’ BRAVERY SIU MEN BRAVE JUNGLE TO AVOID INTERNMENT MARINERS EXPERIENCE MISADVENTURE IN THE NORTH AFRICAN DESERT- 1943 BOSUNS POINT TO UNION, SCHOOL AS GOLDEN OPPORTUNITIES ABOARD THE SIU-CREWED MAERSK OHIO Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Seafarers Log Digital Copies Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 09/01/2013 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Newsprint Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context Vol. 75, No. 9 2013 Periodicals Seafarers Log http://www.seafarerslog.org/archives/files/original/1bf2000588e1b2ac3d83ca9392da1914.pdf a01fd519699b1a03b87a3220f12c6b76 PDF Text Text Volume 75, Number 10 October 2013 ‘Maritime Transportation Delivers’ Commanders, Congressmen, Business and Labor Leaders Address MTD Industry leaders and backers gathered Sept. 5-6 in Los Angeles for the convention of the Maritime Trades Department (MTD), AFL-CIO. Representatives from the military, Congress, the administration, business and labor collaborated during the quadrennial gathering on ways to sustain and revitalize the U.S-flag industry. MTD/SIU President Michael Sacco is pictured at right while Gen. William Fraser, commander, U.S. Transportation Command is shown in photo at left. In the group photo at lower left, pictured from left are Acting Maritime Administrator Paul “Chip” Jaenichen, SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel and Seafarers Union of Russia President Yury Sukhorukov. Standing left to right in the photo at lower right are SIU VP Government Services Kermett Mangram, SIU Exec. VP Augie Tellez, Rear Adm. Thomas “T.K.” Shannon, commander of the U.S. Military Sealift Command, and SIU Asst. VP Government Services Chet Wheeler. Some of the other attendees are pictured directly below. The convention’s theme was “Maritime Transportation Delivers.” Coverage starts on page 3 and continues on pages 9-14. New Tankers Ordered Page 2 15050_Seafarers_OCT_13_LOG_lores.indd 1 15050_OCT_13_LOG.indd 1 AFL-CIO Convention News Page 3 VPDSD Reminders Page 5 9/21/13 3:50 PM 9/21/2013 3:05:43 PM �President’s Report Worthwhile Jobs Fight, Vital Program Supporters of the U.S. Merchant Marine understand that our victory earlier this year in the U.S. House of Representatives involving the Food for Peace program wasn’t the end of the fight, and that definitely has proven true. If anything, attacks on this extremely worthwhile program – vital to feeding millions of hungry people around the world and a key source of jobs for SIU members as well as tens of thousands of other Americans – increased as summer turned to fall. I’m going to give our opponents credit for at least this much: They’re good liars. They’ve manipulated some of the media by mixing in just enough truth to appear credible, then shoveling deceptions on top of it. The results include accusations that this life-saving program (also known as Public Law or PL-480) somehow has the opposite Michael Sacco effect and is harming the needy overseas. That’s nothing short of preposterous. The short version of this fight is that foreign-flag interests and others who don’t care about American jobs want to take the money from this time-tested program and send it directly overseas. That approach could prove catastrophic for American national security and possibly fatal for some of the people who depend on food that’s sent from the U.S. on American-flag ships. If you’re not up to speed on this battle, you should know that an estimated 44,000 American mariners, port workers, farmers, transportation workers and processors have jobs that depend on the program. If you count other domestic jobs related to Food for Peace, that number is close to 100,000. In addition to being a source of good American jobs, PL-480 puts America in a positive light while literally saving lives. The U.S. Department of Agriculture, along with the United Nations, regularly report staggering statistics about world hunger, with heart-wrenching numbers that aren’t always easy to comprehend. But they add up to more than 900 million people around the world who suffer from hunger. Food for Peace brings relief to many of those in need, and it does more than feed people. It has served an essential role in supporting foreign policy and building important trade links for our farmers in countries like India, Poland, Romania, and Egypt. There is another key aspect to this program. It helps maintain a pool of U.S. mariners who are available to sail on U.S. militarysupport ships in times of need. No one has to take my word for it – our county’s military leaders have made this case for years. Food for Peace and other cargo preference laws are essential to maintaining our national defense sealift capability. Any decrease in food aid tonnage would have to be compensated for elsewhere in order to keep up that capability and keep those ships sailing. Another problem with simply sending cash overseas is that many of the beneficiaries of Food for Peace are in unstable regions to begin with. Accountability would be a huge concern, and that’s putting it politely. This point was made crystal clear in a recent U.S. government report harshly critical of the transparency and accountability of reconstruction efforts in Afghanistan. The same agency that oversees Food for Peace heads up that effort, and the only reasonable conclusion to draw from the report is that the oversight capability to implement the administration’s proposed changes to food aid simply does not exist. The SIU is proud to stand behind the Food for Peace program, and we reject any further erosion of it. In fact, we’re going to continue working with our allies to not only preserve the current program but also restore it to proper funding levels that were in place before cuts took place in recent years. Jobs are at stake, lives are at stake, and we’ll stay in the ring for as many rounds as this fight lasts. Volume 75, Number 10 October 2013 The SIU online: www.seafarers.org The Seafarers LOG (ISSN 1086-4636) is published monthly by the Seafarers International Union; Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters, AFL-CIO; 5201 Auth Way; Camp Springs, MD 20746. Telephone (301) 899-0675. Periodicals postage paid at Southern Maryland 20790-9998. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to the Seafarers LOG, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. Communications Director, Jordan Biscardo; Managing Editor/Production, Jim Guthrie; Assistant Editor, Brian Ahern; Photographer, Harry Gieske; Administrative Support, Misty Dobry; Content Curator, Mark Clements. Copyright © 2013 Seafarers International Union, AGLIW. All Rights Reserved. The Seafarers International Union engaged an environmentally friendly printer for the production of this newspaper. 2 Seafarers LOG 15050_OCT_13_LOG_X.indd 2 Seabulk Orders Jones Act Tankers NASSCO to Construct 2 Vessels for SIU-Contracted Company New SIU jobs are on the horizon following the (DSME) of Busan, South Korea. “The tankers will early-September announcement that the parent com- have conversion-capable, dual-fuel-capable auxpany of Seafarers-contracted Seabulk Tankers, Inc. iliary engines and the ability to accommodate the has ordered two product carriers from General Dy- future installation of an LNG fuel-gas system and namics NASSCO. Type C LNG tanks,” the companies pointed out. The vessels will “These additional be 50,000 deadtankers represent weight ton LNGthe continuation of conversion-ready NASSCO’s successtankers, each with ful partnership with a 330,000-barDSEC.” rel cargo capacity. Harris stated, Construction of the “This contract is first ship is schedan indication that uled to begin in late NASSCO remains 2014, with deliverfully committed to ies scheduled for continuing to bring the second quarter the most economiof 2016 and first cal and environquarter of 2017. mentally sound Each vessel will be technology to Jones 610 feet long. Act owners and opSan Diego-based This artist’s rendering shows the basic overall look of the erators. We are very General Dynamics newly ordered Seabulk vessels. pleased to begin NASSCO is a union a new partnership shipyard whose with SEACOR and president, Fred Harris, is a former union mariner. look forward to delivering two high-quality vessels In a joint news release from SEACOR Holdings that will serve SEACOR in the Jones Act tanker mar(Seabulk’s parent company) and NASSCO, the com- ket for decades.” panies said the new ships will feature excellent fuel Charles Fabrikant, executive chairman of SEAefficiency while incorporating the latest environ- COR Holdings, said, “Our decision to build these mental protection features, including a ballast-water two new tankers is a clear demonstration of our contreatment system. tinued commitment to the Jones Act. We are very The ships will be designed by DSEC, a subsid- excited that we will be able to offer this new ecoiary of Daewoo Shipbuilding & Marine Engineering friendly design to charterers.” Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan Upgrades its CIGNA Network The Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan (SHBP) recently notified eligible participants about an expanded CIGNA network scheduled to launch Oct. 1. This expanded health network should mean more convenience and more options for Seafarers and their covered dependents – plus financial savings. As noted in an August letter from Seafarers Plans Administrator Maggie Bowen, the new network is called Open Access Plus (OAP), and it replaces the previous preferred provider network (PPO). “Under the new network, you can expect greater discounts from most in-network medical providers, which should save you money on your health care expenditures,” Bowen wrote. “The majority of the doctors and hospitals that participated in the prior PPO network also participate in the new OAP network, so in most cases you should not have to change providers.” Information about participating providers is available through a website listed on CIGNA identification cards and also is linked on the SIU website. New CIGNA cards recently were mailed to eligible Seafarers and their covered dependents. (SHBP Plan S participants, exclusively consisting of some employees aboard the Pride of America, will remain under the old PPO network for now. Also, Puerto Rico and U.S. Virgin Islands residents, respectively, weren’t included in this mailing – the former are covered under Humana’s network, while CIGNA doesn’t have a network in the Virgin Islands.) In the letter, Bowen added, “The only change to your benefits is that beginning on October 1, 2013, you will require pre-certification in order to be covered for certain outpatient high technology radiology services, such as CT scan, PET scan or MRI. This means that your health care provider must contact the number on your CIGNA ID card to get approval before you receive these tests. This will help you avoid medical tests that are costly and potentially expose you to unnecessary radiation. Pre-certification is not required when these tests are performed in the emergency room.” Covered Seafarers and dependents who haven’t received a new CIGNA card are asked to contact the SHBP at 1-800-252-4674. SHBP Arms Membership with Facts Pertaining to Affordable Care Act As portions of the Affordable Care Act – more commonly known, for better or worse, as Obamacare – begin taking effect, the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan (SHBP) is equipping members with important and useful information. The SHBP also is working closely with SIU employers to help ensure as smooth a transition as possible. Early last month, Seafarers Plans Administrator Maggie Bowen sent a letter to all SHBP participants explaining some of the law’s nuances and providing a heads-up on what to look for in notices that were required to be mailed by employers no later than Oct. 1. Those notices from employers to workers are uniformly titled New Health Insurance Marketplace Coverage Options and Your Health Coverage. As Bowen pointed out in the letter, because Seafarers work for companies that are signatory to collective bargaining agreements with the SIU, those employers must contribute to the SHBP on members’ behalf. As long as Seafarers meet eligibility requirements, they and their families are covered by the SHBP. There is no cost to members or their families to carry the coverage, because the employers pay the entire premiums. In this regard, Seafarers have it better than many others: According to the most recent reports from the Kaiser Family Foundation, in 2013, the average annual premiums for employer-sponsored health insurance are $5,884 for single coverage and $16,351 for family coverage. On average, an individual employee pays more than $2,400 for single coverage or around $4,500 for family coverage, merely to cover his or her part of the premium. Nevertheless, the new health insurance marketplace, also called the exchange, offers employees a chance to directly purchase their own coverage. It is mainly intended for people without insurance, or for workers whose employers “do not offer health insurance, offer minimal coverage that does not meet certain standards, or who offer health insurance that is not affordable because the premium is very high,” the letter pointed out. “If the premiums to purchase health coverage through an employer are more than 9.5 percent of an employee’s household income, the employee may be eligible for a tax credit. Since you do not pay anything towards the premium for your coverage, and your coverage meets the government’s standards, this does not to apply to you.” SHBP coverage also includes numerous benefits for Seafarers and their families that cannot be purchased through the exchange. Those benefits include a standard death benefit of $5,000 and a graduated death benefit up to $45,000; sickness and accident coverage; free rehabilitation services at the Seafarers Addictions Rehabilitation Center (ARC); coverage for on-board illnesses and injuries; dependent coverage at no additional cost; vision and dental benefits at no extra cost; and the opportunity to apply for scholarships sponsored by the SHBP. October 2013 9/24/2013 8:53:07 PM �Convention Maps Out Strategies to Boost Industry Commanders, Congressmen, Labor and Industry Leaders Address MTD Some of the maritime industry’s strongest supporters recently vowed to keep fighting for the revitalization of the U.S. Merchant Marine. Their commitments were declared Sept. 5-6 at the quadrennial convention of the Maritime Trades Department (MTD), AFL-CIO, in Los Angeles. A constitutional department of the AFLCIO, the MTD is composed of 21 international unions (including the SIU) and 21 port maritime councils in the United States and Canada representing nearly 5 million working men and women. Delegates to the convention re-elected President Michael Sacco (who also is president of the SIU), Vice President Scott Winter and Executive Secretary-Treasurer Daniel Duncan. The convention’s theme – Maritime Trans- portation Delivers – “reflects our reliability aboard ship and ashore,” Sacco stated in his opening remarks. “Whether we’re delivering for our troops, or helping other nations in a humanitarian mission, or moving domestic commercial cargo between Hawaii, Puerto Rico and the mainland, the members of MTD unions live up to this slogan day after day, month after month, year after year. “And whether it’s a case of literally delivering the goods or simply doing their jobs with precision and dedication and reliability that’s second-to-none anywhere in the world, the members of MTD unions are a great source of pride,” he continued. “They’re the backbone of America and they are the reason we meet here today and tomorrow – to figure out the best SIU President Michael Sacco, the longest-serving VP on the AFL-CIO executive council, conducted the federation’s election. ways to continue protecting their livelihoods.” The following guest speakers addressed the convention on Sept. 5: AFL-CIO President Richard Trumka; Rear Adm. Thomas “T.K.” Shannon, commander, U.S. Military Sealift Command; and U.S. Rep. Cedric Richmond (D-La.). Speaking to the delegates Sept. 6 were U.S. Rep. Bennie Thompson (R-Miss.); Gen. William Fraser, commander, U.S. Transportation Command; Thomas Crowley Jr., president and CEO of Crowley Maritime Corporation; Frank Foti, president and CEO of Vigor Industrial; U.S. Rep. Duncan Hunter (R-Calif.); U.S. Rep. John Garamendi (D-Calif.); Acting U.S. Maritime Administrator Chip Jaenichen; and California Labor Federation Executive Secretary-Treasurer Art Pulaski. In addition to conducting elections for officers and hearing from guest speakers, convention delegates approved several reports and adopted 18 resolutions, most of which help lay out the department’s strategies. Among other topics, the resolutions called for support of vital maritime issues including the Jones Act, the Maritime Security Program, the Food for Peace Program, domestic shipbuilding and the need for enhanced port infrastructure. Other resolutions included salutes to those serving in the armed forces and to first responders as well as calls for family-wage jobs and retirement security. For complete coverage of the MTD convention, see pages 9-14 Federation President Richard Trumka (center) is flanked by Secretary-Treasurer Liz Shuler and Executive VP Tefere Gebre. (Photos by Bill Burke) AFL-CIO Convention Shines National Spotlight on Labor Big news and a national spotlight on the labor movement emerged from Los Angeles as the AFL-CIO gathered for its quadrennial convention. Highlighted by the federation’s decision to open itself to non-union workers, the re-election of its president and secretary-treasurer and the election of the organization’s first foreignborn executive vice president, the convention made headlines throughout the country from Sept. 8-10. SIU President Michael Sacco, who is the longest-serving vice president on the federation’s executive council, acted as the convention’s election chairman. He presided over the podium as the AFL-CIO re-elected President Richard Trumka and Secretary-Treasurer Liz Shuler to second terms and elected Ethiopianborn Tefere Gebre executive vice president. Gebre is the first foreign-born person to serve in one of the federation’s top three leadership positions. In his acceptance speech, Trumka outlined the convention’s main theme and the labor movement’s long-term goals. The AFL-CIO, he said, must transcend its role as a federation of unions. The AFL-CIO must join with allies and become an entire movement itself. “We must work as one and rise as one and speak as one,” Trumka said, adding that by doing so the movement could better combat economic inequality, stagnant wages and the struggles facing the middle class. “Together we can take this county back … and again make it a nation of the people, by the people and for the people.” To achieve this objective, federation officials decided to expand the organization’s base beyond union workers. In resolutions and speeches, AFL-CIO members announced the organization would open itself to non-union members as well – a move designed to position the federation as part of a movement for the entire middle class, not just card-carrying union members. “We’re on the verge of creating a labor October 2013 15050_Seafarers_OCT_13_LOG_lores.indd 3 15050_OCT_13_LOG.indd 3 movement that speaks for all workers,” Gebre said. “It doesn’t matter if you have a (union) card in your pocket or not.” The move was seen by officials as necessary. Trumka acknowledged “we know we’re in a crisis right now,” and said that “none of us are strong enough” or organized enough to change the anti-worker political climate created by the deep pockets of corporate America. To fight such powerful interests, Trumka said, the entire progressive movement and middle class must unite under the same banner of change. “None of us are big enough” to create those changes, Trumka said during a pre-convention press conference, speaking of unions, environmentalists, immigrant and civil rights groups – all of which participated in a six-month listening session prior to the convention. “We want to change our relationship” with the other groups “from transaction to transformational,” Trumka said. “What we used to do is to get a plan and go to our allies and say, ‘Here’s a plan, sign on.’ Sometimes it worked; sometimes it didn’t. Now we’ll say, ‘Here’s a problem. Let’s create a strategy.” That process will now allow those outside groups into labor’s councils, though the exact role and influence of the groups has yet to be revealed. “The AFL-CIO has as a founding ideal (for) the assembling of a broad progressive coalition for social and economic justice,” read the AFL-CIO resolution that formally brought outside groups into labor’s councils. “Our partnerships need to be rooted, dynamic and abiding and we must extend the frontiers of our relationships, building on the values we share.” While the news of the federation opening its ranks to non-union members created national headlines, it wasn’t the only development from the convention to attract widespread attention. The AFL-CIO’s criticism of the Affordable Care Act – the Obama administration’s signature health care achievement and a law that was originally supported by the labor movement – surprised many. In a resolution voted on by delegates, the federation called the law “highly disruptive” and warned that the law could negatively impact low- and moderate-income union members and their collectively bargained health care plans. “Contrary to the law’s intent, some workers might not be able to keep their coverage and their doctors because the federal agencies’ current implementation plans will be highly disruptive to the operation of Taft-Hartley multiemployer plans,” the resolution read. Despite the wide-ranging topics of discussion and activities, the main theme of the convention centered on revitalizing the middle class and ensuring all Americans have a shot at the American Dream. When it comes to those priorities, Trumka said, the AFL-CIO and the labor movement as a whole would continue the fight for as long as it takes. “Tonight in America, a child will go to sleep with a stomach growling with hunger…. An immigrant father will sit behind bars waiting to be deported…. A father will sit down to dinner knowing he is falling out of the middle class and the mother is struggling in a minimum wage job,” Trumka said. “The question is who will speak up for them? The answer is we all will,” Trumka added. “We will stand up for everyone who gets up and goes to work.” The SIUNA contingent attending the convention, which took place at the Staples Center, included (from left) SIU VPs Kermett Mangram, Tom Orzechowski and Nick Marrone, President Michael Sacco, Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel, VPs George Tricker, Dean Corgey and Joseph Soresi, MFOW President Anthony Poplawski and SUP President Gunnar Lundeberg. Seafarers LOG 3 9/21/13 3:50 PM 9/21/2013 3:05:53 PM �Retired ILA President Hughes Dies at 79 The SIU along with the rest of maritime labor is mourning the death of retired International Longshoremen’s Association (ILA) President Richard P. “Richie” Hughes, who died Sept. 11 in Baltimore. He was 79. Hughes served as the ILA’s eighth president, holding the office from July 2007 until July 2011. In a joint letter to current ILA President Harold Daggett, SIU President Michael Sacco and SIU Secretary-Treasurer Hughes (right) was fond of this 2009 photo, showing him introducing his granddaughter to Vice President Joe Biden. David Heindel offered sincere condolences and noted they both enjoyed working with Hughes “for many years, both domestically and internationally. Richie was a true trade unionist, an effective leader, and a valued friend. He was a strong advocate for workers’ rights, both here and around the world…. On behalf of our entire organization, we again extend our heartfelt sympathies. Richie will be missed.” Paddy Crumlin, president of the International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF) and top officer of the Maritime Union of Australia, said Hughes was “an extraordinary character, loved and respected for his tireless work on behalf of the ILA and the U.S. and international labor movements…. He often said to me the purpose and satisfaction of our life’s endeavors was mostly secured by the support we can offer for our family…. While his time at the helm was short, it punctuated a long life of distinguished service with the ILA.” Prior to his election as president, Hughes served as both executive vice president of the ILA and secretary-treasurer of the union’s Atlantic Coast District (ACD). He had first been elected to the ACD post in 2000. In October 2005, Hughes was named executive vice president. He served the ILA in other capacities dating to 1985, and also was a member of the executive councils of both the AFL-CIO and the Maritime Trades Department. In announcing his passing, the ILA said it is “deeply saddened” and credited Hughes with “serving our membership Richard Hughes, pictured at a 2010 MTD meeting, served as the ILA’s president from 2007-2011. with distinction and honor for more than half a century. Rich Hughes’ accomplishments throughout his long career with the ILA were vast and his memory will endure.” Hughes came from a rich tradition of longshoremen and was a third generation ILA member. A veteran of the U.S. Navy, he went to work on the Baltimore docks as a young man in 1954, first joining ILA Local 1429. He was married to Wilma Anna Hughes since 1957; they had five children, eight grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. SIU-Crewed Crowley Tugs Deliver Largest Offshore Platform to Gulf SIU, AMO Team To Help Mariners Advance Careers The SIU and the Seafarers-affiliated American Maritime Officers (AMO) have teamed up to launch The Engineering Candidate Hawsepipe (TECH) program, which provides an accelerated pathway for entry-level mariners to advance to original third assistant engineers. The U.S. Coast Guard has approved the pilot training and assessment regimen encompassed by TECH, and recruiting for the program’s first class began last month. That class is scheduled to convene at the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md., in January. Comprehensive information about the program is available online at: www.star-center.com/techprogram/techprogram.html The program is designed to take qualified and motivated high school graduates from unlicensed apprentice to third assistant engineer, with an STCW endorsement, through approximately 30 months of classroom, lab and shipboard training. Costs to candidates are minimal, and cover medical exams, required credentials, passports, uniforms and other incidental expenses. There are no tuition or room-and-board fees, and all transportation costs incurred during the program are covered, provided the candidate agrees to complete the program and sail as a licensed engineer and member of AMO upon completion. 4 Seafarers LOG 15050_Seafarers_OCT_13_LOG_lores.indd 4 15050_OCT_13_LOG.indd 4 Four Seafarers-crewed Crowley Maritime tugboats – the Ocean Wind, Ocean Wave, Ocean Sky and Ocean Sun – recently completed the successful delivery of the offshore oil production and drilling platform Olympus to the U.S. Gulf of Mexico. The project was significant because it provided the first opportunity for all four of the company’s new highbollard-pull, ocean-class tugboats to work together on a single job. The rig, owned by Royal Dutch Shell, is also considered the largest tension-leg platform ever to be developed for the U.S. Gulf of Mexico. SIU members aboard the tugs worked together to relocate the 120,000-ton, 406-foot-tall platform from Ingleside, Texas, 425 miles to its deepwater location in the U.S. Gulf of Mexico. During the first stage of work, called the nearshore phase, the Ocean Wind and Wave provided assistance in pushing the Olympus away from the Keiwit facility dock in Ingleside through the Port of Aransas, Texas, and out to deeper waters. During this initial phase, the Ocean Sky was also available and equipped to provide push assistance, if needed. Once safely outside of the port, the Ocean Wave, Ocean Wind and Ocean Sun towed the vessel to its final location in more than 3,000 feet of water. During this second stage, called the offshore phase, the Ocean Sky took on the role of escort tug, which helped to ensure the towing vessels’ and platform’s safety. In the final stage, called the positioning phase, the Ocean Wind, Ocean Wave and Ocean Sun vessels helped to position the platform in its permanent location and remained on site in a star pattern to provide support as the platform was attached to tendons and made “storm safe,” the company reported. The Ocean Sky remained on site as a stand-by vessel and to provide additional security. Crowley’s SIU-crewed ocean-class tugs are modern ocean towing twin-screw vessels with controllable-pitch propellers (CPP) in nozzles, high-lift rudders and more than 147 metric tons of bollard pull. The first two ocean-class vessels, the Ocean Wave and Ocean Wind, are classed as Dynamic Positioning 1 (DP1) tugboats and are twin-screw, steel-hulled tugs with an overall length of 146 feet, beam of 46 feet, hull depth of 25 feet and design draft of 21 feet. The second two tugs of the class, Ocean Sky and Ocean Sun, are classed as DP2 and are 10 feet longer. All four vessels are capable of rig moves, platform and “Floating Production, Storage and Offloading (FPSO) unit tows,” emergency response, salvage support and firefighting, according to Crowley. The Olympus, which was constructed in South Korea, features 24-slot drilling units and a deck large enough to process crude from a six-well subsea development on site. The platform will concentrate on high-pressure reservoirs that range in depths from 20,000 to 22,000 ft. The expectation is that the Olympus will produce and process 100,000 barrels of oil equivalent per day once operating at full capacity. Four Seafarers-crewed tugboats push the platform Olympus away from its dock. October 2013 9/21/13 3:50 PM 9/21/2013 3:05:56 PM �Seafarers Help Rescue Syrian Refugees Maersk Utah Aids Italian Coast Guard Near Sicily SIU members aboard the Maersk Utah helped with an overnight rescue of 83 Syrian refugees in August after receiving a call regarding a boat in distress off the coast of Sicily. According to published reports, the Utah was traveling about 70 nautical miles out from Cape Passero, Sicily, on Aug. 9 when the Italian Maritime Rescue Coordination Center in Rome issued a call to the vessel about a boat in distress. The Utah then altered its course and increased its speed to reach the distressed boat prior to nightfall. “At 2016 (8:16 p.m.), with daylight rapidly falling and wind increasing to a force 5 (18-25 mph), the small craft was visually spotted about 5 (nautical miles) away,” read the captain’s report. “The Utah approached the craft and stopped alongside at 2033 (8:33 p.m.). At this time it became clear that the boat, approximately 15 meters (49 feet) long, was carrying many people of various ages, gender and physical condition.” The Utah then approached the craft and was positioned to protect the distressed boat from the increasing wind and waves. The 984-foot Utah then sheltered the small boat for five hours while crews from the CIVMARS Open Season Gets Underway Nov. 11 Affordable Care Act Won’t Impact Benefits Program Enrollment Open season is approaching for SIU CIVMARS and other federal workers and retirees participating in the Federal Employees Health Benefits Program (FEHBP). Conducted this year Nov. 11-Dec. 9, open season allows CIVMARS to review their respective health benefit plan options and select a health plan that meets their specific needs and the needs of their families. Despite the current implementation of the 2010 Affordable Care Act, the FEHBP and its enrollment process will not change for CIVMARS. As always, CIVMARS will be able to select new health benefit plans and supplemental dental/vision plans, and allocate allotments to flexible spending accounts during the open season period. No action is required for those who want to continue their current enrollment, unless they plan to drop out of the FEHBP. While there have been no changes to the enrollment process, there have been changes to the FEHBP in response the recent Supreme Court decision to strike down the Defense of Marriage Act. That decision means the FEHBP now recognizes same-sex marriages and will provide benefits to same-sex spouses. Legally married same-sex couples are now eligible for Federal Employees Group Life Insurance and can participate in self and family enrollments during open season, the same as opposite-sex couples. In short, the FEHBP will no longer differentiate between same-sex and opposite-sex couples in terms of benefits. Detailed information about open season is available online at: http://www.opm.gov/insure/health/ Italian Coast Guard were sent to the scene from Sicily. The crew of the Utah was told by Italian authorities not to attempt a rescue of their own unless the lives of the refugees aboard the boat were in immediate danger. By 1:28 a.m. on Aug. 10 the first Coast Guard vessel was spotted and guided to the refugees’ boat with the help of the Utah’s searchlights. Unfortunately, the state of the sea and the small size of the Italian Coast Guard vessel prevented the rescue operation from proceeding from there. The Utah was then instructed to provide shelter to the Italian boat as well and await the arrival of a larger Italian rescue vessel. That larger craft arrived on the scene around 3:54 a.m. and immediately began the rescue operation. By 10 a.m. the Utah’s rescue work was done and the vessel was released to continue its voyage to Algeciras, Spain. “It was a long night, but the reward at the end was very satisfying,” said Chief Mate Joe Single, a member of the Seafarers-affiliated American Maritime Officers. The SIU members aboard the Utah included: Bosun Herbert Charles, ABs Antonio Arizala, Orlando Dacruz, Edgardo Opao and Victor Valencia, QEE Gregory Johns, QE4 Gerardo Vega, GUDE Paul Moss, Steward/Baker Abraham Martinez-Rochez, Chief Cook Manes Sainvil and SA Timoteo Nunez. Union Officials, PHC Staff Provide Active Seafarers Instructions for Obtaining STCW Security Endorsements Don’t Miss The Boat! Your Job May Be At Stake! As previously reported, because of requirements stemming from the most recent amendments to the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW), all mariners serving on vessels engaged on voyages to which the STCW applies must have training in and an endorsement for Security Awareness (SA). If any of their assigned duties on ship will include security of the vessel, they must also hold the Vessel Personnel with Designated Security Duties (VPDSD) endorsement, according to the U.S. Coast Guard’s National Maritime Center. Sea time may be substituted for training if it meets specified requirements. For most Seafarers, complying with these new regulations will simply be a matter of securing a letter from their respective employers (companies or vessel masters) indicating that the mariner has performed security functions aboard ship for a period of at least six months during the preceding three years. The letter then is submitted to a Coast Guard regional exam center (REC) so the member may acquire an appropriate sticker indicating the corresponding security endorsement. SIU officials and personnel from the union-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education have been assisting as many Seafarers as possible through this process. For Seafarers who don’t have the required sea time with security duties, the Paul Hall Center regularly offers courses to meet the new requirements. Other Notes SIU members who currently have a Vessel Security Officer (VSO) endorsement already comply with the new requirement. If demonstrating completion of an approved course, the certificate of completion should be attached to Coast Guard form 719B as an application for an endorsement. If the mariner is also seeking a renewal of an existing document, form 719K (Medical Evaluation Report) would also have to be filed. Those forms are linked in an SIU web post mentioned at the end of this article. The three STCW security endorsements are: SA – VI/6 – Security Awareness VPDSD – VI/6 – Vessel Personnel with Designated Security Duties VSO – VI/5 – Vessel Security Officer According to the policy letter, mariners will not be charged for adding an STCW endorsement if they apply before Jan. 1, 2014 unless they’re seek- ing a renewal or a raise in grade of their MMCs, nor will the expiration dates change. Sample Letter for those with Sea Time Prior to January 1, 2012: Dear Sir: This letter is to provide documentation that NAME has seagoing service with designated security duties for a period of at least six months during the preceding three years and meets the STCW qualifications for Vessel Personnel with Designated Security Duties. Sincerely, NAME OF MASTER OR COMPANY OFFICIAL For More Information Questions may be directed to the NMC at 1-888-IASKNMC (1888-427-5662), 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday. Questions may be directed to your port agent. Questions may be directed to the Paul Hall Center’s admissions office at (301) 994-0010. A post on the SIU website includes a sample letter and links to related Coast Guard material. It is located at: http://www.seafarers.org/ news/2013/Q1/STCWSecurityEndorsementInfo.htm (Or, just go to www.seafarers. org and search for “VPDSD”) Seafarers Turn Out for Labor Day March Active and retired Seafarers, officials and their families once again participated in the annual Labor Day parade in Wilmington, Calif. Members of the SIU contingent are among those pictured above. October 2013 15050_Seafarers_OCT_13_LOG_lores.indd 5 15050_OCT_13_LOG.indd 5 Seafarers LOG 5 9/21/13 3:50 PM 9/21/2013 3:05:58 PM �At Sea And Ashore With The SIU TALKIN’ UNION IN VIRGINIA – SIU VP Government Services Kermett Mangram (right) and Port Agent Georg Kenny (left) spoke with their congressman, U.S. Rep. Bobby Scott (D-Va.), during the Virginia AFL-CIO convention in August. ADDING ART TO INDEPENDENCE II – Apprentice Nancy Bestwick is pictured next to some of her off-duty handiwork aboard the Independence II, a car carrier operated by Crowley for American Roll-On/Roll-Off Carrier (ARC). A-BOOKS IN WILMINGTON – Safety Director Abdul Al-Omari (second from right) is pictured with three Seafarers who recently picked up their respective Aseniority books. From left: AB Benjamin Monzon, OMU Rommel Crespo, QMED Noli Aguirre. ABOARD CROWLEY ATB VISION – These photos from the Crowley ATB Vision were taken in late August in Martinez, Calif. Seated from left in the group photo above are Chief Steward Bradley Palmer, Chief Mate Lawrence Soulier, Chief Engineer John McCranie, Asst. Engineer Kevin Miles and Asst. Engineer Marijan Masnov. Palmer is serving lunch in the photo at left. Thanks to Patrolman Nick Marrone II for the photos. ABOARD PHILADELPHIA EXPRESS – Recertified Bosun Jose Jimenea, above, and AB Arthur Saeli are pictured aboard the Philadelphia Express, operated by Marine Personnel & Provisioning. Thanks to Houston Patrolman Joe Zavala for the photos. 6 Seafarers LOG 15050_Seafarers_OCT_13_LOG_lores.indd 6 15050_OCT_13_LOG.indd 6 WELCOME ASHORE – Recertified Steward William Bryley (left) recently called it a career after nearly 35 years of sailing with the SIU. He is pictured with Port Agent Joe Vincenzo at the hall in Tacoma, Wash. ABOARD PACIFIC TRACKER – These photos from the TOTE Services-operated Pacific Tracker were taken during a recent stop in Honolulu. Pictured from left in the group photo above are Recertified Bosun John Mossbarger, SA Caprice Jennings, Recertified Steward Brenda Kamiya, SA Reynaldo Mabulao, SA Noel Bocaya, Chief Cook Christopher Hopkins and Second Cook Julito Crodua. The group photo below includes Electrician Zachary Ross, Wiper Andrew Gronotte, QMED Cort Hansen and OS Gary Vart, while the remaining photo at left shows AB Kevin Kellum. Thanks to Port Agent Hazel Galbiso for the photos. October 2013 9/21/13 3:50 PM 9/21/2013 3:06:05 PM �Trainees Represent SIU During Historic Rally in D.C. Thirty-three trainees from the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md., were among the tens of thousands of people who converged on the National Mall near the Lincoln Memorial Aug. 24 to support a rally in observance of the 50th Anniversary March on Washington. Under the command of Night Commandant Michael Hebb and clad in Lundeberg Stetsons, blue SIU T-shirts and khaki shorts, the contingent of trainees departed Piney Point via bus near first light. They arrived at the RFK Stadium parking lot where buses were staged at shortly after 8 a.m. From there, they marched about one mile to the National Armory Metro entrance where they boarded the train for the Smithsonian stop. After arriving at their destination, they disembarked, formed up and marched another two miles to the grounds of the mall. During their trek, they patiently weaved in and out of islands of fellow rally goers, all the while representing themselves and the SIU in a fashion that would make their future brothers and sisters proud. Once on site, they joined in with the masses and answered the call of support for the rally. Comprising the trainee contingent were: Travis Abbott, Carlos Arzuaga, Aaron Baker, DeMario Barganier, Gianluca Beacon, Kianna Calbourne, Harold Copeland, Nicole Donald, Stacy Fulcher, Ryan Gallano, Jabrel Gill, Joseph Griggs, Steven Horta, Eddie Jackson, Abdou Jobe, Tyler Jones, Imran Khan, Lauren Lafond, Joshua Lee, Issac Lesh, Jean Lozada, Robert Mack, Christopher Mayall, David Myrick, Mohamed Obaid, Martin O’Brien, Jesse Piner, John Reyes, Nicholas Selle, Grazya Tomaszewska, John Thompson, Ronald Williams and Leroy Woods. Organized by the Rev. Al Sharpton and Martin Luther King III, the event attracted throngs of leaders and members of organizations and groups representing civil rights, organized labor, housing, media, education and politics. Sharpton is president and Founder of National Action Network (NAN), and King III, is the eldest son of the late Coretta and Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. He is also president of Realizing the Dream. In addition to Sharpton and King III who were keynote speakers, several other dignitaries addressed the masses that converged on the mall. Included were: U.S. Attorney General Eric Holder, U.S. Rep. John Lewis (D-Ga.), House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi (DCalif.), Minority Whip Steny Hoyer (D-Md.), Newark Mayor Corey Booker, the Rev. Joseph Lowry, and Julian Bond. Rev. Bernice King, the second daughter and youngest child of Dr. King; and Myrlie Evers-Williams, the widow of Medgar Evers. The families of Emmett Till and Trayvon Martin also addressed those in attendance. Representing labor at the podium were Randi Weingarten, president, American Federation of Teachers; Lee Saunders, president of the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees; Janet Murguia, president, the National Council of La Raza; Mary Kay Henry, international president, Service Employees International Union; Dennis Van Roekel, president, National Education Association; and others. Collectively, the speakers urged the nation’s lawmakers to create more jobs, protect voting rights, and to address the litany of recent attacks on immigration and workers’ rights. Speakers also addressed criminal justice issues; Stand Your Ground Laws and gun violence; environmental justice; and issues affecting contemporary youth such as higher education and college loans. The rally was one of many affairs held from Aug 17-28 to commemorate and celebrate the historic March on Washington which occurred 50 years ago on Aug. 28, 1963. The final event, the “March for Jobs and Justice,” took place Aug. 28 when citizens again turned out for a march. It concluded with the National Mall March at the Lincoln Memorial where President Barack Obama spoke from the very spot where Dr. King delivered his “I Have a Dream” speech 50 years ago. Former Presidents Bill Clinton and Jimmy Carter also spoke at this outing as did other dignitaries and celebrities. AFL-CIO President Richard Trumka was not able to attend this event. In his absence, he released the following statement: “Fifty years ago, Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., AFL-CIO Vice President A. Phillip Randolph, labor and civil rights activist Bayard Rustin, UAW President Walter Reuther and countless Americans marched for equality, jobs and freedom. That march became a pinnacle of the civil rights movement, symbolizing hope and the power of united action. “Today, on the 50th Anniversary of the March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom, the fight for equality and justice for all continues. The Supreme Court weakened the Voting Rights Act. Extremists in the U.S. House of Representatives are stalling reform of our broken immigration system. Women make 77 cents to a man’s dollar. And workers’ rights are in jeopardy across the nation. But today, the unforgettable sounds and images from 1963 also remind us that change is possible. “Today we rededicate ourselves to the dream of economic equality that so many marched for a half century ago. We will work with those who strive for prosperity for all in this great country – regardless of race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation or place of birth.” Clockwise from left, the trainees make their way from the RFK Stadium Parking Lot to the rally site near the Lincoln Memorial. Once on site (above), they joined the masses and answered the call of supporting the rally. At the event’s end (below), they made their way past the World War II Memorial en route to the stadium parking lot for their return trip to Piney Point. October 2013 15050_Seafarers_OCT_13_LOG_lores.indd 7 15050_OCT_13_LOG.indd 7 Seafarers LOG 7 9/21/13 3:50 PM 9/21/2013 3:06:09 PM �USS Montford Point Aces Inspection The Seafarers-contracted mobile landing platform vessel USNS Montford Point in midSeptember earned an outstanding score following thorough U.S. Navy inspections and testing in Everett, Wash. Operated by Ocean Ships for the Military Sealift Command, the Montford Point was built at union shipyard General Dynamics NASSCO in San Diego. In the photo at right, Sailors assigned to the guided-missile frigate USS Ford help moor the Montford Point at Naval Station Everett. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Kyle Steckler) Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan Notice of Privacy Practices Your Information. Your Rights. Our Responsibilities. This notice describes how medical information about you may be used and disclosed and how you can get access to this information. Please review it carefully. Your Rights When it comes to your health information, you have certain rights. This section explains your rights and some of our responsibilities to help you. Get a copy of health and claims records You can ask to see or get a copy of your health and claims records and other health information we have about you. Ask us how to do this. We will provide a copy or a summary of your health and claims records, usually within 30 days of your request. We may charge a reasonable, cost-based fee. Ask us to correct health and claims records You can ask us to correct your health and claims records if you think they are incorrect or incomplete. Ask us how to do this. We may say “no” to your request, but we’ll tell you why in writing within 60 days. Request confidential communications You can ask us to contact you in a specific way (for example, home or office phone) or to send mail to a different address. We will consider all reasonable requests, and must say “yes” if you tell us you would be in danger if we do not. Ask us to limit what we use or share You can ask us not to use or share certain health information for treatment, payment, or our operations. We are not required to agree to your request, and we may say “no” if it would affect your care. Get a list of those with whom we’ve shared information You can ask for a list (accounting) of the times we’ve shared your health information for six years prior to the date you ask, who we shared it with, and why. We will include all the disclosures except for those about treatment, payment, and health care operations, and certain other disclosures (such as any you asked us to make). We’ll provide one accounting a year for free but will charge a reasonable, costbased fee if you ask for another one within 12 months. Get a copy of this privacy notice You can ask for a paper copy of this notice at any time, even if you have agreed to receive the notice electronically. We will provide you with a paper copy promptly. Choose someone to act for you If you have given someone medical power of attorney or if someone is your legal guardian, that person can exercise your rights and make choices about your health information. We will make sure the person has this authority and can act for you before we take any action. File a complaint if you feel your rights are violated You can complain if you feel we have violated your rights by contacting us using the information at the end of this notice. You can file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office for Civil Rights by sending a letter to 200 Independence Avenue, S.W., Washington, D.C. 20201, calling 1877-696-6775, or visiting www.hhs.gov/ocr/privacy/ hipaa/complaints/. 8 Seafarers LOG 15050_OCT_13_LOG_X.indd 8 We will not retaliate against you for filing a complaint. Your Choices For certain health information, you can tell us your choices about what we share. If you have a clear preference for how we share your information in the situations described below, talk to us. Tell us what you want us to do, and we will follow your instructions. In these cases, you have both the right and choice to tell us to: Share information with your family, close friends, or others involved in payment for your care Share information in a disaster relief situation If you are not able to tell us your preference, for example if you are unconscious, we may go ahead and share your information if we believe it is in your best interest. We may also share your information when needed to lessen a serious and imminent threat to health or safety. Our Uses and Disclosures How do we typically use or share your health information? We typically use or share your health information in the following ways. Help manage the health care treatment you receive We can use your health information and share it with professionals who are treating you. Example: A doctor sends us information about your diagnosis and treatment plan so we can arrange additional services. Run our organization We can use and disclose your information to run our organization. We are not allowed to use genetic information to decide whether we will give you coverage and the price of that coverage. This does not apply to long term care plans. Example: We share general claims information with the Plan’s actuary in order to design Plan benefits. Pay for your health services We can use and disclose your health information as we pay for your health services. Example: We share information about your claims with your spouse’s health plan in order to coordinate benefits. Administer your plan We may disclose your health information to your health plan sponsor for plan administration. Example: We will share your claim information with the Board of Trustees if you submit an appeal. How else can we use or share your health information? We are allowed or required to share your information in other ways – usually in ways that contribute to the public good, such as public health and research. We have to meet many conditions in the law before we can share your information for these purposes. For more information, see: www.hhs.gov/ocr/privacy/hipaa/understanding/consumers/index.html. Help with public health and safety issues We can share health information about you for certain situations such as: Preventing disease Helping with product recalls Reporting adverse reactions to medications Reporting suspected abuse, neglect, or domestic violence Preventing or reducing a serious threat to anyone’s health or safety Do research We can use or share your information for health research. Comply with the law We will share information about you if state or federal laws require it, including with the Department of Health and Human Services if it wants to see that we’re complying with federal privacy law. Respond to organ and tissue donation requests and work with a medical examiner or funeral director We can share health information about you with organ procurement organizations. We can share health information with a coroner, medical examiner, or funeral director when an individual dies. Address law enforcement, and other government requests We can use or share health information about you: For Jones Act Claims upon receipt of a subpoena or authorization For law enforcement purposes or with a law enforcement official With health oversight agencies for activities authorized by law For special government functions such as military, national security, and presidential protective services Respond to lawsuits and legal actions We can share health information about you in response to a court or administrative order, or in response to a subpoena. If you attend the Seafarers Addictions Rehabilitation Center (ARC) we will never share any substance abuse treatment records without your written permission, unless we receive a valid subpoena. Our Responsibilities We are required by law to maintain the privacy and security of your protected health information. We will let you know promptly if a breach occurs that may have compromised the privacy or security of your information. We must follow the duties and privacy practices described in this notice and give you a copy of it. We will not use or share your information other than as described here unless you tell us we can in writing. If you tell us we can, you may change your mind at any time. Let us know in writing if you change your mind. We will never share your information for marketing purposes, and we will not sell your information. For more information, see: www.hhs.gov/ocr/privacy/ hipaa/understanding/consumers/noticepp.html. Changes to the Terms of this Notice We can change the terms of this notice, and the changes will apply to all information we have about you. The new notice will be available upon request, on our web site, and we will mail a copy to you. For more information, contact the Privacy Officer at: privacyofficer@seafarers.org Or by mail to: Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746 Telephone: (301) 899-0675; Website: www.seafarers.org Effective date: September 23, 2013. October 2013 9/24/2013 9:18:51 PM �MARITIME TRADES DEPARTMENT “Maritime Transportation Delivers” 2013 September 5-6, 2013 QUADRENNIAL CONVENTION Los Angeles ‘You’re the Backbone of Our Success’ USTRANSCOM, MSC Commanders Stress Value of Industry Partnerships The top officers at the U.S. Transportation Command (USTRANSCOM) and U.S. Military Sealift Command (MSC) delivered powerful remarks at the Maritime Trades Department (MTD) convention, stressing the enormous value of the U.S. Merchant Marine. Gen. William Fraser, commander of USTRANSCOM, and Rear Adm. Thomas “T.K.” Shannon, commander of MSC, also emphasized that they are going to bat for the maritime industry during these times of severe budget cuts. Gen. Fraser addressed the convention in Los Angeles on Sept. 6, while Rear Adm. Shannon delivered his remarks one day earlier. Both men received standing ovations as they candidly expressed appreciation for civilian mariners, their unions and American-flag vessel operators. Both also called for an effective national maritime strategy. Describing MTD officials and the members of MTD-affiliated unions as “tremendous patriots,” Gen. Fraser added, “TRANSCOM is greatly appreciative of what you do, and we couldn’t do our job without you.” He said rank-and-file mariners and dockworkers “really make us successful. They make us who we are and allow us to do the things that have been talked about, whether responding to a crisis, responding to humanitarian assistance or disaster relief. Even if it’s here in the States, like Hurricane Sandy, or Haiti, or other opportunities that we’ve had to decrease human suffering and save lives, you’ve always responded in an outstanding manner and I can’t thank you enough for that…. Nothing moves without you and those that you represent.” Fraser pointed out that more than 90 percent of the goods moved “into theater” go by sea. “In the maritime industry, you’re the SIU/MTD President Michael Sacco, left, joined Rear Adm. Thomas Shannon for this photo shortly after the admiral’s speech to the MTD Convention. Shannon is commander of the Military Sealift Command. backbone of our ability to project our power,” he continued. “It has been amazing to me as I’ve gotten out there and visited a lot of places, because there are a lot of ships at sea. On any average day, we’ve got about 35 of them that are loading, unloading or at sea sailing someplace with our stuff on it. And that’s very, very important to us in order to accomplish our job.” Turning to the agency’s civilian workforce, he said the fact that those personnel haven’t had a wage increase or any bonuses in three years “is unconscionable, and then they wound up being furloughed. That’s breaking faith with people, and that’s why I’m reaching out to other areas to make sure that others hear our story.” Gen. Fraser said that because the partnership between the military and the commercial maritime industry has been so successful, it is taken for granted by some who don’t understand the operations. For example, he cited the drawdowns in Iraq and Afghanistan: “If not for our commercial partners being able to turn to in a timely manner to get the job done, we would not have been successful…. Our commercial partners are the key to our success. They really are. You’re the backbone of our success.” He then detailed his efforts on Capitol Hill and elsewhere to warn legislators and others about the potential harm of reductions to the Maritime Security Program (MSP) and other programs and laws that help maintain the U.S. maritime industry. “As I look at the future I am concerned about our readiness,” Fraser stated. “When I think of the maritime industry, and individual decisions that are made in stovepipes, it creates a risk for us. It creates a risk for you, for your workforce…. It’s important for us that we maintain our readiness levels, so I’m engaging a lot.” Gen. Fraser said that the looming possibility of reducing the MSP fleet after reauthorizing the program – and receiving commitments from commercial partners based on that reauthorization – “is just not right, and I have to be able to tell that story on behalf of the maritime industry and what those impacts may be.” Those efforts include meeting with U.S. Transportation Secretary Anthony Foxx, officials from the Office of Management and Budget, and others. He concluded, “The Department of Defense couldn’t do our job without the superb relationship we have (with the industry). That’s why I enjoy getting down to the docks. That’s why I enjoy getting on the ships. My staff looks at me as I get out there and I’m talking to these young folks that are on the docks and on the ships, and it just excites me, because they’re proud of what they’re doing. And I couldn’t be prouder of them, because of the professionals they are but also the patriots that they are, the sacrifices that they and their families are making on a day-to-day basis to meet the mission – the mission to continue to have a vibrant maritime industry.” Rear Adm. Shannon similarly said the maritime industry “is in a bit of crisis. I, for MTD Backs U.S. Troops, Nation’s Many Veterans The Maritime Trades Department, AFL-CIO, to which the SIU is affiliated, recently adopted the following resolution at its quadrennial convention: SUPPORT FOR TROOPS & VETERANS While many Americans have lost faith in many of the nation’s institutions, confidence in and support for the men and women who serve in the U.S. military continues to remain sky high. And for good reason. Day after day, Soldiers, Sailors, Aviators, Marines and Guardsmen put their October 2013 15050_OCT_13_LOG_X.indd 9 Gen. William Fraser Commander USTRANSCOM Rear Adm. Thomas “T.K.” Shannon Commander U.S. Military Sealift Command one, am not going to sit on a shelf and do nothing about it. I look forward to partnering with every element of the maritime industry to help leave it in a better place after I’ve been in this job for two or three years.” He said he appreciated the fact that many of the labor officials attending the convention came up through the ranks, just as he has done. He also comes from a union family – his mother and two brothers all belonged to unions. “It’s my privilege to be here and look at maritime partners,” he stated. “In my opinion, we defend America together. Now, because I wear a uniform I get the credit. We drive the aircraft carriers. We fly the jets. We take submarines down to the depths of the ocean. We’ve got the Tomahawk shooters out there in the eastern Mediterranean right now poised for action if called on. That’s the stuff that Anderson Cooper and Wolf Blitzer cover, and so the uniform folks get it. “But it is not lost on me that somebody’s moving strategic fuel stocks around the world,” he continued. “Somebody’s moving all kinds of defense cargo and ammunition around the planet. Somebody’s sitting on a prepositioning ship right now with war reserve materiel ready to weigh anchor and take it wherever the president needs it. And that’s you and the members you represent, and for that I offer you my utmost respect. The whole thing comes to a grinding halt without the United States Merchant Marine supporting what the uniform folks like me do.” He shared a story from 1980, when he sailed as a cadet on the SIU-crewed Sea-Land Seattle. Rear Adm. Shannon said he never forgot the practical advice given to him by a seasoned AB who, in addition to teaching valuable lessons in seamanship, encouraged him (in colorful terms) to take advantage of promising career opportunities. “Here we are 33 years later, and it’s my honor to serve as Commander of Military Sea- lift Command, the largest employer of mariners in the United States of America,” he said. Evaluating today’s industry, Rear Adm. Shannon said in some ways it’s both the best and worst of times. “In the worst category, sequestration (automatic federal spending cuts) is putting immense downward pressure on our budgets,” he said. “And it’s not only the loss of funding, but it’s the speed and velocity with which it is happening. It’s not like we could plan for this over a five- or 10-year period, and so it is forcing us to make some very hard choices in a very short amount of time. With the gridlock in our Congress, I don’t see that it’s going to change for the foreseeable future.” On the positive side, he said that after assuming command of MSC earlier this year, “I know why the Defense Department and many other federal agencies look to us to provide a service, and it’s not just internal MSC staff. It’s our partners like you who I think are the best in the world. Mariners, other maritime trades, you’re the reason why I get up and enjoy going to work in the morning.” He explained why he believes the Navy will be more important than ever in the years ahead, and also pointed to new-build programs involving the joint high-speed vessels and mobile landing platforms as reasons for optimism. He also cited overwhelmingly positive performances and feedback involving military-civilian hybrid crews on three Seafarersmanned vessels. He added, “Nothing that Defense does, happens without you. This is a partnership we value…. When the president rings the bell and says it’s time to go, you’re the ones that respond. And I believe our country owes you a debt of gratitude for that.” He reinforced MSC’s support for the Jones Act “and any other legislative effort to strengthen maritime shipping and shipbuilding…. It’s my honor to serve with you.” lives on the line to protect the country’s safety, freedom and national interests. Where would America be without the professionalism and courage of those who serve in the military? The MTD is proud of these brave men and women, many of whom are our own Union Brothers and Sisters. A number of MTD affiliates actively support the nation’s troops every day on the job, both at home and around the globe. We also salute those who have served and earned the title of Veteran. The MTD is a proud member of the AFL-CIO Union Veterans Council. However, those who are serving or have served on the front lines face a different battle – finding a job. America must not and cannot turn its back on those who answered the call to duty. Never in the history of this nation have so many owed so much to so few. These people deserve more than mere lip service. They need concrete actions. These men and women, both retired and active, deserve the best. That has been the MTD’s belief since our inception in 1946. NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Maritime Trades Department, AFL-CIO, its affiliates and Port Maritime Councils salute and thank the members of the United States Armed Forces past and present for their dedication to country and devotion to duty; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the MTD, its affiliates and Port Maritime Councils continue to work to ensure those who served have decent, good-paying jobs and proper benefits when they are home; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the MTD, its affiliates and Port Maritime Councils pray for the safe return of those in uniform stationed around world. Seafarers LOG 9 9/24/2013 10:11:16 PM �MARITIME TRADES DEPARTMENT “Maritime Transportation Delivers” U.S. Rep. Duncan Hunter (R-Calif) U.S. Rep. John Garamendi (D-Calif.) 2013 September 5-6, 2013 U.S. Rep. Bennie Thompson (D-Miss.) QUADRENNIAL CONVENTION Los Angeles U.S. Rep. Cedric Richmond (D-La.) Congressmen Show Strong Support for Maritime Representatives Vow to Defend MSP, Food for Peace, Jones Act While they came from different states, backgrounds and political parties, the members of Congress who addressed the 2013 MTD convention agreed on one thing: The nation must have a strong maritime industry and Washington must do more to ensure it stays that way. Speaking to a gathering of labor leaders, military officials, industry executives and convention delegates Sept. 5-6 in Los Angeles, the congressmen stressed the need for vital programs like the Jones Act, Maritime Security Program (MSP) and Food for Peace (PL-480) while also calling for the creation of a wide-ranging national maritime strategy. Such a strategy should serve as a long-term guide for Congress and the administration and guarantee the industry remains strong and vibrant in the future, they said. Those members of Congress included Reps. Duncan Hunter (R-Calif.), chairman of the Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation Subcommittee; John Garamendi (D-Calif.), ranking member on the Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation Subcommittee; Bennie Thompson (D-Miss.), ranking member on the Homeland Security Committee; and Cedric Richmond (D-La.), co-founder of the Congressional Maritime Caucus. “We need a national maritime strategy,” said Hunter, adding that the strategy wouldn’t be drafted by bureaucrats in Washington. “We’re not going to come up with this in a dark room in D.C. somewhere. We’re going to come up with this strategy with you.” As terrorism and unrest continue to shake the world, Hunter said such a strategy and a strong U.S. Merchant Marine should be among the nation’s top priorities. “There is more of a need for a strong and large merchant marine fleet than there has ever been,” he said. Hunter said that need was amplified following recent troubling developments that have greatly impacted the industry. He pointed specifically to cuts in the MSP, the program that provides an annual stipend to ensure 60 militarily useful merchant vessels are available to the government in times of need. While the MSP provides billions of dollars’ worth of sealift capability to the government for a small fraction of the price, the program was hurt by across-the-board SIU/MTD President Michael Sacco, U.S. Rep. Duncan Hunter (R-Calif.), and Tom Bethel, president, American Maritime Officers 10 Seafarers LOG 15050_OCT_13_LOG_X.indd 10 spending cuts when Congress and the administration failed to reach an agreement on the federal budget. “We’re trying right now to put that money back in so the MSP program keeps going and we have what we need,” Hunter said. “Because at some point we’re not going to have what we need and then the military is going to have to look within and pay billions of dollars to supplement that which would cost a few million.” Garamendi, who also called for the creation of a national maritime strategy, said the battle for the U.S. Merchant Marine and maritime industry was part of the larger federal budget battle. In an age of austerity, Garamendi said, Congress must ensure programs like the MSP, Title XI shipbuilding loans and PL-480 remain intact and fully funded. “Those austerity budgets are going to go to the heart of the programs you care about, the programs I care about,” he said. “The fight over the nature of the budget is absolutely critical to everything you want to do.” One of those vital programs, Garamendi said, was PL-480. Created in 1954 to transport American-grown food to countries in need aboard American-owned and –crewed vessels, PL-480 has enjoyed broad bipartisan support over the years. Aside from helping to maintain America’s sealift and military-support capability and helping to improve America’s standing in the world, it also directly accounts for more than 44,000 American jobs and boosts the economies of at least 28 states. Earlier this year, however, the administration attempted to end PL-480 by turning it into a voucher program that would send money to countries in need rather than food. An amendment changing the program in that way was attached to the Farm Bill earlier this year, though both the amendment and the bill were defeated. Garamendi said such alterations to PL480 miss the point that American-made food must meet those in need while traveling on American ships. “You cannot feed them with dollar bills,” he said. “You’re going to feed them with American grain and American food brought to them on American ships. We must continue that (program) and if we fail to do so it’s only a matter of time before those dollars dry up and they don’t have the food to survive.” Thompson, meanwhile, said in his speech that any future battles against PL-480 would face increased resistance. Speaking of the recent Farm Bill vote that saw many members voting against PL-480, Thompson said some of the members who voted against the program have realized the error of their ways. “Food for Peace is absolutely important. Some of our members didn’t understand that, but they do now,” Thompson said. “We have a term for that in Washington. It’s called, ‘uh oh.’ And it seems ‘uh oh’ means, ‘the next time it comes up, I’m going to know better.’” Like his fellow Congressional colleagues, Thompson discussed the importance of maintaining a vibrant U.S. Merchant Marine and keeping vital maritime programs intact. As the ranking member of the Homeland Security Committee – and its former chairman – Thompson said he knows firsthand how important maritime is to the country. “The Jones Act support is a no-brainer,” Thompson said of the key maritime law that requires all domestic shipping to be on American-made, -crewed and -flagged vessels. “If we don’t preserve what we have as a country, we lose our security. So I would encourage you to work hard to keep the Jones Act where it is.” Known as the lifeblood of the maritime industry, the Jones Act protects America’s ports and inland waterways while also ensuring the nation has a vibrant fleet of merchant vessels ready to answer the country’s call in times of war and crisis. It also accounts for more than 500,000 American jobs and more than $100 billion in annual economic output while maintaining a pool of reliable, welltrained U.S. mariners who support our troops whenever and wherever needed. Richmond cited those statistics in his speech to the MTD, adding that highlighting those sorts of benefits was one of the reasons why he co-founded the Congressional Maritime Congress earlier this year. “If you talk about half a million jobs in one sector, then you have to understand (that) people understand it and invest in it,” Richmond said. “But the only way they will do that is if you talk about it more. The more numbers we get in those caucuses the more attention we can push and make sure we get.” Richmond said that increasing the awareness of the benefits of key maritime programs – and the labor movement as a whole – can only do good things for the industry and the labor movement. That’s especially true, he added, in the face of unending attacks from anti-maritime and anti-labor interests. “Whether it’s the Jones Act, cargo preference, MSP – all of those things are very critical to this country and they’re going to keep coming under attack,” Richmond said. “We just have to know that. We just need to talk about the benefits.” And when it comes to benefiting the country and benefiting maritime, Richmond said the two are invariably linked. “We will continue to support you all because supporting you supports the country,” he said. October 2013 9/24/2013 10:11:19 PM �MARITIME TRADES DEPARTMENT “Maritime Transportation Delivers” 2013 September 5-6, 2013 QUADRENNIAL CONVENTION Los Angeles Crowley Focuses on Safety, Wellness, Growth The head of Seafarers-contracted Crowley Maritime Corporation sees opportunities for growth in the industry, but said such progress will require ongoing commitments to safety and partnerships. Thomas B. Crowley Jr., chief executive officer and chairman of the board of directors, addressed the MTD convention Sept. 6. He described his company’s diverse operations and emphasized the wisdom of regularly bringing stakeholders together for collaboration. “I think the partnership that industry and labor and government have is really unique to our industry,” stated Crowley, whose company employs thousands of U.S. mariners. “We can’t take all this for granted. We have to continue to work on it – make it more powerful and really invest in the future.” Crowley said that where his specific company is concerned, he plans to retain family ownership, invest for the long haul, and reinvest profits back into the business. He also plans to maintain a diverse set of services within the industry, and in “many different geographies.” For instance, he described Crowley’s operations in container and tanker shipping, logistics, tug services, and salvage projects. All of those components depend on what he described as Crowley’s top priority: safety. Pointing to the company’s sterling record, he added, “These results never would have happened if it hadn’t been for our partnership with labor on achieving these goals. “Most of our employees will enter their career and leave their career and not have any incidents, not hurt themselves, not hurt any equipment and not hurt the environment,” he continued. “It’s our responsibility to make sure that we give our employees all the tools we can to make sure that all of them have that opportunity. And when you look at it that way, it’s a much simpler task, a much easier task. We’re not going to get rid of all hazards, but if you layer in defenses and give the people that are doing the work as many defenses as you can, it’s going to stop that chain of events. Whenever you look at a (minor) safety incident or a disaster, it’s always a multitude of things that add up that create the problem. And we’ve got to tackle each one of those and make sure that we take as many of those away so we can avert those incidents.” Wellness is another of the company’s goals – and another for which they have teamed up with maritime labor. “We’ve taken [wellness] on as a big challenge within our company,” he explained, “and again, this is an area we’re going to look for partnerships with our unions to figure out how to tackle it. This is a challenge we all face; we face it as a nation, we face it as a company, and you face it as unions providing those medical plans. We’ve got to become a healthier workforce, a healthier America.” Finally, he talked about the company’s newly ordered Jones Act tankers as well as other plans for growth. “We’re putting together a very aggressive plan,” Crowley said. “But we’ve got to keep striving, got to look for new ways.” He added that recruiting, training and employee retention all will remain “critical” for the company’s future. “Those are our priorities: recruit, train and retain.” Wrapping up his presentation and referring Thomas B. Crowley Jr., Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the Board of Directors Crowley Maritime Corporation to remarks earlier the same day from the commander of the U.S. Transportation Command, Crowley cited “our partnership with the government and military. General (William) Fraser spoke a lot about partnership with industry, and we feel the same way. We’re here to serve this country in as many ways as we can. And the amount of work we do with the government is huge, but we want to do more, want to be of service, want to be able to lower their costs of doing business by leveraging what the industrial commercial sectors can provide.” Labor Leaders Call for Unity, Change Trumka, Pulaski Call on Movement to do More for Middle Class MTD President Michael Sacco, left, presents AFL-CIO President Richard Trumka with a ship’s wheel. Sacco gave the memento to Trumka following his address to convention delegates and guests. Art Pulaski Executive Secretary-Treasurer California Labor Federation October 2013 15050_OCT_13_LOG_X.indd 11 AFL-CIO President Richard Trumka came to the podium of the political process. at the 2013 MTD convention with big ideas and a call for “What we have done is we have researched and underaction. The nation is facing a crisis, he said, and the labor stood and scored every of 16 million voters in the state of movement must do all it can to rebuild the middle class with California,” Pulaski said. “We know of those 16 million good jobs that provide a shot at the American Dream. who are inclined to support the union movement on our “America is calling out for help right now,” Trumka issues. So we began this campaign to help them get to the said Sept. 5 to the gathering in Los Angeles. “We have to issues that they share with us; they just need somebody to answer our country’s call. Our nation’s been torn down and talk with them and get them out to vote.” torn apart.” When combined with the successes seen from last year’s Describing a country plagued with income inequality California political races, Pulaski said the strategy could and a vanishing middle class, Trumka – and California be a winning one nationwide. It’s simply about mobilizing Labor Federation chief Art Pulaski, who spoke the followthose on the side of workers and taking to the fight to the ing day – said more had to be done to secure fair wages, anti-worker opponents. health care, comfortable retirement, education and a better “The message for them is, it’s not going to be easy life for millions of Americans. to mess with the labor movement in the future,” Pulaski “We’re going to do whatever it takes to lift our country said. “We’re about building power, we’re about having up, no matter what the price, no matter how high the cost, your back, and we’re about building the labor movement. because we’ve come too far,” We’re about organizing Trumka said. “It’s time for us to and we’re about making go forward. We won’t back up, sure that we kick back on and we won’t back down, and those enemies of labor “We’re going to join together with everywe won’t be turned aside, and who are trying to destroy one and anyone who will stand with us, who we will not be denied. This is us.” will raise up our voices together until our the American labor movement Trumka, meanwhile, and it is our country and time touched on similar themes voices become one loud powerful voice that we took it back.” in his speech, arguing the cannot be denied and demand an economy The key to taking the country labor movement must reback, Trumka said, lies in the fuse to allow anti-worker that provides for every last American, not movement’s numbers and pasgroups to paint organized just those at the very top...” Richard Trumka sion. He called on everyone to labor as an enemy to the ask if they are doing enough and middle class. Those in the encouraged further mobilization labor movement, Trumka and grassroots political activity. added, are the ones who Whether they’ve been part of the labor movement or not, actually fight for the middle class and the vast majority Trumka said everyone should be welcomed into the fold of Americans. The movement must make sure the county and encouraged to join the fight for middle class fairness. knows that. “We’re going to join together with everyone and anyone “We’re no fringe group with special interests. We’re who will stand with us, who will raise up our voices tothe mainstream,” Trumka said. “The vast majority of the gether until our voices become one loud powerful voice that American people believe exactly what we believe in, and it cannot be denied and demand an economy that provides for is time for the American labor movement to start acting like every last American, not just those at the very top,” Trumka the majority in this country, not the minority.” said. “And with one voice we’ll demand that all work have And while it won’t be easy, Trumka said such hard work dignity, that every worker has health care, and every child a will most certainly pay off. good education, and enough to eat. We want every worker “It starts now and won’t end until every kid has a fair to have a job and fair pay and a secure retirement.” education and goes to bed with a full stomach, until every Discussing the importance of mobilization, Pulaski American is treated with dignity and fairness and doesn’t pointed in his speech to the grassroots work undertaken in get cheated in any kind of system, whether it’s the judiCalifornia to defeat anti-worker measures. One of those cial system or anywhere else,” Trumka said. “That’s the proposals – California’s Proposition 32 – was defeated last America that we believe in and that’s the America we shall year and basically would have kept the labor movement out have.” Seafarers LOG 11 9/24/2013 10:11:21 PM �2013 MARITIME TRADES DEPARTMENT “Maritime Transportation Delivers” Tom Bethel President AMO David Durkee International President Bakery Workers Jim Given President SIU of Canada Los Angeles Frank Christensen General President IUEC Richard McCombs President IBEW Local 261 Gunnar Lundeberg President SUP Anthony Poplawski President MFOW Walter Wise President Iron Workers Ron Krochmalny President Michigan Port Council Ron Kloos National Vice President TCU Robert Roach General Secretary-Treasurer IAM John Baker President Cleveland Port Council Glenn Middleton Vice President AFSCME MTD at a Glance The Maritime Trades Department is a constitutionally mandated department of the AFL-CIO. It was formed in 1946, and its 21 affiliates include the SIU. Altogether, those unions represent more than 5 million members. The MTD also features 21 port maritime councils. SIU President Michael Sacco also serves as MTD president, a post to which he most recently was re-elected last month. The coverage on pages 9-14 reflects some of the happenings at the MTD’s 2013 Quadrennial Convention which took place Sept. 5-6 in Los Angeles. Check out the MTD’s website (maritimetrades.org) for additional information about the department. Mark Spano President Novelty Workers Ken Rigmaiden General President Painters September 5-6, 2013 MTD President Michael Sacco, right, presents U.S. Transportation Command Commander Gen. Willliam Fraser with an historic “Battlin’ Pete” World War II-era patch. Sacco gave the memento to Fraser shortly after his address to MTD delegates and guests. Augie Tellez Executive VP SIU David Heindel Secretary-Treasurer SIU Nick Marrone VVP West Coast SIU Dean Corgey VP Gulf Coast SIU Tom Orzechowski VP Great Lakes SIU Joseph Soresi VP Atlantic Region SIU George Tricker VP Contracts SIU George Galis Secretary-Treasurer Painters Richard Lanigan Vice President OPEIU John Candioto Secretary Treasurer SMWIA, Local 16 Tyler Brown Director Education Research Boilermakers Lynn Tucker General Vice President, Eastern Territory, IAM Robert Godinez International Representative Boilermakers Kermett Mangram VP Government Services SIU Scott Winter VP MTD James L. Henry Vice Chairman Board of DIrectors American Maritime Partnership Don Nolan Vice President Paul Hall Center Brian Schoeneman Legislative Director SIU Desiree Gralewicz Secretary-Treasurer SIU of Canada Steve Bertelli International Secretary-Treasurer Bakery Workers Dan Kane International Secretary-Treasurer Mine Workers Steve Torello Secretary-Treasurer Novelty Workers Jorge Lopez SMART Bernie Hostein Asst. to President Steelworkers Jack Hayn Asst. to General President Painters Harry Kaiser Asst. to President Bakery Workers Edward Kuss Special Representative IAM Sito Pantoja General VP, Transportation IAM Laura Reynolds Asst. to Vice President CWA Gary Powers Asst. to President Boilermakers Brian Bryant Chief of Staff IAM 12 Seafarers LOG 15050_OCT_13_LOG_X.indd 12-13 QUADRENNIAL CONVENTION October 2013 October 2013 Seafarers LOG 13 9/24/2013 10:15:16 PM �MARITIME TRADES DEPARTMENT “Maritime Transportation Delivers” 2013 September 5-6, 2013 QUADRENNIAL CONVENTION Los Angeles MarAd Planning New Strategy to Revitalize Industry The acting head of the U.S. Maritime Administration (MarAd) said his agency is taking a “leading role” in developing a new blueprint to revitalize the industry. Paul “Chip” Jaenichen addressed the MTD Sept. 6, and offered a realistic look at the tough challenges facing the maritime industry along with an outline for how to tackle them. Echoing some of the other speakers, Jaenichen said, “The nation needs a maritime policy. It needs a strategy. The Maritime Administration is going to take a leading role.” He said the agency in mid-November will host a symposium in the nation’s capital to help develop such a strategy. “We’ve got to figure out how to reinvigorate the U.S. Merchant Marine,” he said. “By actively collaborating, I’m convinced we can help ensure that we create a process and develop a maritime strategy that actually works, is inclusive, is far-reaching and long-lasting. “You are the backbone of American prosperity,” he continued. “We are a maritime nation; that’s not ever going to change. The men and women that you support in the industry at sea and also those who work ashore to support those folks and everybody who’s earning an income to support their families – that’s what’s important and that’s why we’re here.” A retired career U.S. Navy officer, Jaenichen said that following his appointment last year as acting administrator, one of his first actions was setting “a new strategic vision for the agency.” That vision is summarized in four words, he said: cargo, infrastructure, readiness, and advocacy. Jaenichen said his 30 years in the Navy – including 14 years in seagoing assignments – made him clearly understand “what it takes to have a strong maritime nation.” After having visited MarAd’s 46 Ready Reserve Force (RRF) ships during the past year, most of which are SIUcrewed, he stated, “One of the things that I found on every single one of the ships was that the maritime labor on board was professional and dedicated. They are definitely true patriots.” Like other speakers, Jaenichen described the industry as being “at a crossroads.” He talked about budget battles and attacks on American-flag shipping, and said that although he is optimistic about revitalization, “it’s not going to be easy. It’s going to require some heavy lifting by Congress, it’s going to require some heavy lifting by policy, it’s going to require heavy lifting by folks in this room.” He said MarAd (along with other advocates, including the MTD and SIU) is fighting to protect the Maritime Security Program (MSP), one of the industry’s staples since its enactment 1996. However, due to mandatory federal spending cuts, the government this year “for the first time in the history of that program [is] not going to pay all those operators what they were required to be paid by their contract.” After detailing some of the efforts to boost the MSP, Jaenichen said that from a broader perspective, “The good news is that even with all these challenges and the looming fiscal budget, and along with sequestration’s unintended impacts or unintended consequences, there are some things that haven’t changed. And that’s the fact that America can still rely on its maritime industry to power trade and prosperity, during peace time and in war. But more importantly, they’re ready to provide the essential sealift that we need, and it doesn’t matter whether it’s a humanitarian crisis or whether troops need their equipment overseas, they’re ready to go and they’re ready to do it today. Not tomorrow, not next week, they’re ready to do it today.” He then saluted the mariners who assisted in Superstorm Sandy relief efforts, citing that operation as just one example of civilian mariners answering the nation’s call. Other positive developments mentioned by the acting administrator included new-build programs at Aker Philadelphia Shipyard and General Dynamics NASSCO, plus “increased demand from the Gulf and the oil industry.” He added that liquefied natural gas (LNG) – both as fuel and cargo – offers promising new opportunities for Jones Act ships and the yards that build them. With that in mind, MarAd is funding a $500,000 LNG bunkering study. Jaenichen also said MarAd has successfully implemented fairer, stricter and more transparent guidelines for Jones Act waivers. “We strongly support the Jones Act,” he stated. “I’m going to be fighting for it every day to make sure that it continues to work. We’re going to enforce it.” Returning to the agency’s plans for developing a national Paul “Chip” Jaenichen Acting Administrator U.S. Maritime Administration maritime strategy, Jaenichen said, “We sink or swim together, and no one’s success or failure is necessarily an isolated event. So it’s up to everyone involved – it’s government, it’s labor, it’s shipowners, it’s shippers, it’s manufacturers. We’ve got to get together.” Vigor Industrial CEO Advises Convention Attendees ‘Keep it Simple’ in Workplace Frank Foti President and CEO Vigor Industrial MTD Jones Act Resolution The Jones Act is the lifeblood of the maritime industry and a vital tool in protecting the nation’s economic and national security. This is common knowledge among the MTD, its affiliates, the U.S. military and a bipartisan contingent of American lawmakers. Unfortunately, it is not common knowledge outside that group. In fact, there are some – fueled with misinformation and funded by foreignflag, anti-worker interests – who would like to undo the Jones Act and the benefits that come with it. Those benefits are many. The Jones Act, which mandates that cargo moving between 14 Seafarers LOG 15050_OCT_13_LOG_X.indd 14 As the head of Vigor Industrial sees it, workplace guidelines can be plenty effective without being complex. Frank Foti, president and CEO of Vigor, also told MTD convention attendees that there’s nothing wrong with bonding on the job, as long as it’s done respectfully. “We’ve had a really simple, unifying code that is hard to argue with,” said Foti, whose company operates shipbuilding and repair facilities in Washington, Oregon and Alaska. “This has served us really well and we’ve grown as a company. We used to have one location; we have seven now, and this code is understood in all of our locations.” Foti, who addressed the MTD on Sept. 6, commended Vigor’s union workforce – and also surprised the audience by announcing the company is adopting a new code, though it’s at least as basic as the old one. Its components: truth, responsibility, evolution, and love. “They seem like simple concepts and they are,” Foti said. “Actively speak the truth and actively seek it…. Openness and truth belong in a workplace, especially the hard truth.” He said that such honesty can be uncomfortable, but one of its biggest potential benefits is safety. By fostering that type of workplace environment, Foti asserted, employees will be more likely to voice concerns and prevent mishaps. Similarly, he said responsibility means “acting on what you know is right.” For Vigor, evolution means constantly improving and adapting to the latest technologies. Finally, he talked about love – not typically a common topic U.S. ports must be carried on vessels that are flagged, built, crewed and owned American, sustains more than 500,000 American jobs and generates more than $100 billion in annual economic output. It also provides nearly $30 billion in annual wages and contributes more than $11 billion in tax revenue to the country. Recent reports also have outlined the benefits of the Jones Act. A report by the nonpartisan Government Accountability Office (GAO) on the Jones Act’s impact on Puerto Rico dispelled the myth that the law is harmful to consumers and leads to higher shipping costs. Instead, the GAO study found there were considerable reductions in shipping costs and determined, “The (Jones Act) has helped to ensure reliable, regular service between the United on job sites, but one for which Foti’s passion was obvious. “If you love the people you work with and you love yourself, make sure that you’re doing no harm to yourself, the environment or others…. Love includes the community that you’re in. It includes applauding the work of Tom Crowley (head of Crowley Maritime, who spoke earlier that day) by making sure that there are family-wage jobs available to the workers in this industry. It’s what you do to fight for quality and benefits, and also to fight for equality of the person that’s part of your business. And it’s up to us as leaders to be servants, family, however you define it.” Earlier, he explained the company’s name and basic operations: “The dictionary definition of vigor is the capacity for natural growth and survival, strong feeling, enthusiasm or intensity in physical or mental strength, energy or force. We think that that exemplifies the kind of work that we do. Whether what we do is marine-based or non-marine based, we are Vigor…. “We break our business down into three parts,” he continued. “We build ships – we build barges, ferries, fish boats, specialty vessels for the government. We work on wave energy buoys, and we do various fabrication…. Most of the rest is repair.” Vigor’s workforce is mobile, he added, which is both a credit to the employees and a refutation of old myths about inflexible union members. “We have a lot of great partnerships with organized labor,” he said. States and Puerto Rico – service that is important to the Puerto Rican economy.” Another report by the Lexington Institute, a non-profit, non-partisan think tank, has affirmed the Jones Act’s importance to national security. That report found the Jones Act helps protect American interests at home and abroad by helping ensure the nation has a strong force of merchant mariners ready to answer their country’s call to duty anytime, anywhere. Time and time again the U.S. government has called on the nation’s merchant mariners to support their country in times of war or crisis and those mariners have answered that call without fail. Not having such a cadre of welltrained, loyal U.S. mariners would be dangerous and potentially disastrous in times of crisis. NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Maritime Trades Department, AFLCIO, its affiliates and Port Maritime Councils recognize the importance of the Jones Act to the maritime industry and the country’s economic and national security and; BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the MTD, its affiliates and Port Maritime Councils will promote the Jones Act in every possible way, including educating the American public, elected officials and political leaders about the law’s significance and benefits and; BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the MTD, its affiliates and Port Maritime Councils will continue to support the Jones Act in every arena and oppose all efforts to repeal or dismantle the law in any way. October 2013 9/24/2013 10:11:39 PM �Dispatchers’ Report for Deep Sea August 16, 2013 - September 15, 2013 Total Registered Check Out Our Union’s 75th Anniversary Video An eight-minute video celebrating the union’s anniversary is now available for viewing. The production is free and available to anyone wishing to view it. It can be found on the SIU website at: www.seafarers.org/gallery/SIU75thanniversary.asp Or, just mouse over the “Gallery” tab at www.seafarers.org and then follow the “Videos” tab. Personals Fromer Seafarer Nancy Hilpisch (formerly Nancy Artrip) wants to contact Paul Su with whom she sailed abaord the Independence and Constitution. Brother Su, or anyone who is aware of his whereabouts, may contact Nancy at (803) 316-9734. Retired member Jimmy Sabga would like Charlie Smith (also retired) to contact him; or wants to hear from anyone who knows how to contact him. Jimmy and Charlie both sailed as QMEDs. Sabga’s phone number is (905) 727-4858. November & December 2013 Membership Meetings Piney Point..........................Monday: November 4, December 2 Algonac.........................Friday: November 8, December 6 Baltimore........................Thursday: November 7, December 5 Guam.........................Thursday: November 21, December 19 Honolulu..........................Friday: November 15, December 13 Houston.................*Tuesday: November 12, Monday: December 9 Jacksonville.....................Thursday: November 7, December 5 Joliet............................Thursday: November 14, December 12 All Groups B Total Shipped C A Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS 10 0 7 13 4 8 53 31 7 11 7 43 16 19 5 2 15 33 6 36 326 12 1 9 19 1 6 19 18 8 7 4 17 21 8 4 1 5 14 4 11 189 3 2 2 1 0 0 0 3 0 3 1 2 6 1 1 0 0 6 0 2 33 Deck Department 15 7 0 1 1 1 11 3 3 1 4 1 45 8 36 15 4 3 10 5 10 2 42 12 14 9 19 3 4 1 2 0 7 2 30 13 3 0 16 7 276 94 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS 1 1 4 8 2 3 13 16 5 5 3 18 9 11 5 1 0 20 0 13 138 1 0 3 5 0 3 10 11 6 3 2 10 6 6 4 4 6 4 0 13 97 0 0 0 2 0 1 2 5 1 1 0 1 0 0 1 0 0 1 0 1 16 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS 1 0 4 6 0 2 20 18 5 8 4 28 12 23 1 0 1 13 3 19 168 5 1 1 4 0 1 8 3 2 0 2 5 4 3 0 4 1 5 1 2 52 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu1 Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS 2 0 0 0 0 7 6 4 0 1 2 3 0 4 0 0 0 5 0 4 32 New York.......................Tuesday: November 5, December 3 Norfolk...........................Thursday: November 7, December 5 Oakland.............................Thursday: November 14, December 12 Philadelphia........................Wednesday: November 6, December 4 Port Everglades..................Thursday: November 14, December 12 San Juan..................................Thursday: November 7, December 5 St. Louis..................................Friday: November 15, December13 Tacoma..................................Friday: November 22, December 13 Wilmington.........................Monday: November 18, December 16 *Houston change due to Veterans Day Each port’s meeting starts at 10:30 a.m. GRAND TOTAL: 664 October 2013 15050_OCT_13_LOG_X.indd 15 C A All Groups B C 12 2 9 21 4 21 88 54 10 16 15 88 28 43 8 2 15 59 6 67 568 21 2 9 27 2 14 25 31 7 4 3 24 37 9 5 2 7 35 5 56 325 4 2 2 4 1 0 2 5 0 3 3 6 7 1 2 0 2 10 3 5 62 Engine Department 3 5 0 0 0 0 2 2 0 1 4 2 1 0 0 5 3 0 10 3 0 19 7 2 2 5 0 6 1 1 2 2 0 11 6 0 12 7 0 5 4 0 1 2 0 1 1 0 1 0 0 13 4 0 0 1 0 9 3 0 104 60 5 0 0 1 2 0 1 0 6 1 0 2 5 2 2 1 0 0 7 0 6 36 4 2 7 20 3 14 37 35 4 9 4 23 17 20 8 3 3 29 0 28 270 3 2 5 7 0 4 19 27 3 4 3 25 19 8 5 5 8 12 2 23 184 1 0 1 5 0 2 3 11 1 4 0 6 1 1 2 0 0 1 0 2 41 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 2 0 2 4 0 2 1 0 0 0 0 0 1 13 Steward Department 1 2 1 0 0 0 2 0 1 9 1 1 1 0 0 7 0 0 17 5 0 19 3 0 2 0 0 1 0 0 7 0 2 9 2 0 6 7 0 7 2 0 1 0 0 2 1 0 0 1 0 11 3 0 2 0 0 12 2 0 116 29 5 0 0 0 7 0 1 8 6 0 0 3 1 3 3 0 0 0 6 0 2 40 4 0 6 11 4 22 38 23 3 11 9 42 20 29 2 1 1 32 3 40 301 5 2 4 11 2 9 12 8 3 3 3 7 16 4 0 3 3 5 3 0 103 0 0 0 4 0 1 2 3 0 3 3 1 6 0 1 1 0 0 0 1 26 2 0 3 4 0 3 12 14 3 0 4 21 13 7 1 1 1 9 1 15 118 11 0 2 1 0 0 5 16 1 0 3 11 26 6 1 1 0 2 0 7 96 Entry Department 2 11 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 3 1 0 1 0 5 3 1 3 6 3 2 11 9 0 1 0 1 1 1 1 1 0 1 10 1 1 2 2 1 2 0 0 1 1 0 0 0 0 1 0 2 6 0 0 1 0 0 4 0 14 67 22 4 0 0 0 0 2 1 1 1 0 0 1 1 1 1 1 0 1 0 0 14 5 0 0 1 0 6 9 5 1 0 3 8 0 3 0 0 0 8 0 16 61 13 1 3 9 1 12 27 16 2 3 5 41 30 19 1 1 1 31 0 43 253 23 1 5 2 0 11 19 1 1 4 28 51 14 1 2 2 5 0 30 212 456 158 189 1,200 865 341 510 250 2 0 0 3 0 1 1 2 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 10 Trip Reliefs 1 1 0 2 0 0 23 16 2 2 3 16 5 4 1 0 3 12 1 7 99 Mobile..........................Wednesday: November 13, December 11 New Orleans........................Tuesday: November 12, December 10 A All Groups B Port Registered on Beach 42 Seafarers LOG 15 9/24/2013 10:16:23 PM �Inquiring Seafarer Seafarers International Union Directory Michael Sacco, President Augustin Tellez, Executive Vice President David Heindel, Secretary-Treasurer George Tricker, Vice President Contracts Tom Orzechowski, Vice President Lakes and Inland Waters Dean Corgey, Vice President Gulf Coast Nicholas J. Marrone, Vice President West Coast Joseph T. Soresi, Vice President Atlantic Coast Kermett Mangram, Vice President Government Services Editor’s note: This month’s question was answered by SIU members who graduated from the most recent bosun recertification class at the union-affiliated Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md. Question: What was one of your favorite voyages, and what made it so? HEADQUARTERS 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746 (301) 899-0675 ALGONAC 520 St. Clair River Dr., Algonac, MI 48001 (810) 794-4988 ANCHORAGE 721 Sesame St., #1C, Anchorage, AK 99503 (907) 561-4988 BALTIMORE 2315 Essex St., Baltimore, MD 21224 (410) 327-4900 GUAM P.O. Box 3328, Hagatna, Guam 96932 Cliffline Office Ctr. Bldg., Suite 103B 422 West O’Brien Dr., Hagatna, Guam 96910 (671) 477-1350 HONOLULU 606 Kalihi St., Honolulu, HI 96819 (808) 845-5222 HOUSTON 1221 Pierce St., Houston, TX 77002 (713) 659-5152 Lonnie Porchea Richard Szabo My favorite voyage was my first. I’d always said I would never ride a ship, but that first ship was from Philadelphia to Texas and it was like being on the other side of the world. Now the ship is my life and I would not have it any other way. I love what I do; I get paid to see the world. One of my favorite voyages had to be in 2012 aboard the Liberty Grace for Liberty Maritime. We went around the world, always heading west. We visited two ports in Africa delivering grain. The voyage lasted 93 days. We left Portland, Ore., and completed the voyage at Houston. Joseph French I’ve been sailing around the world since 1980. My favorite voyages have been going from Japan to Australia. I like crossing the equator. I’m just very grateful for the SIU and for these opportunities, including the chance to be a recertified bosun. Virgilio Rosales My favorite voyage was a trip to the Philippines. It was a smooth 30 days sailing on board the MV Noble Star. We had a great crew on board, which makes everything more enjoyable. JACKSONVILLE 5100 Belfort Rd., Jacksonville, FL 32256 (904) 281-2622 JOLIET 10 East Clinton St., Joliet, IL 60432 (815) 723-8002 MOBILE 1640 Dauphin Island Pkwy, Mobile, AL 36605 (251) 478-0916 NEW ORLEANS 3911 Lapalco Blvd., Harvey, LA 70058 (504) 328-7545 NEW YORK 635 Fourth Ave., Brooklyn, NY 11232 (718) 499-6600 Government Services Division: (718) 499-6600 NORFOLK 115 Third St., Norfolk, VA 23510 (757) 622-1892 OAKLAND 1121 7th St., Oakland, CA 94607 (510) 444-2360 PHILADELPHIA 2604 S. 4 St., Philadelphia, PA 19148 (215) 336-3818 PINEY POINT P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674 (301) 994-0010 PORT EVERGLADES 1221 S. Andrews Ave., Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33316 (954) 522-7984 SANTURCE 1057 Fernandez Juncos Ave., Stop 16 Santurce, PR 00907 (787) 721-4033 ST. LOUIS/ALTON 4581 Gravois Ave., St. Louis, MO 63116 (314) 752-6500 TACOMA 3411 South Union Ave., Tacoma, WA 98409 (253) 272-7774 Mohamed Mohamed Cleofe Bernardez Castro In 1996 I was on the OMI Leader going to Curacao and Aruba. I had a very good time. After my watch, I went to downtown Curacao. Back in 1999, I went to Ghana, Africa, on the Frances Hammer and met with nice people. In 2003, I was on the Overseas Harriette, a bulk carrier with stick booms. We delivered food all over the world – Vietnam, the Philippines, North Korea. That was very interesting. That was six months, and we spent a month in North Korea. It was very strict. I felt proud because we were helping other countries. Moises Ramos Going to Haifa, Israel. We toured Jerusalem. That’s always been my favorite voyage, mostly because of my Christian upbringing. To have had the chance to visit the Holy Land – to walk the streets and see the places where Jesus Christ was born and crucified was definitely a very memorable experience. Christopher Janics The most important voyage I ever made was for AT&T on the Long Lines back in 1985. I met my beautiful wife, Judelyn, and started a family as well as doing the SIU proud by doing a great job on the ship. It’s been a great life and I wish everyone fair winds and following seas. Pic-From-The-Past From the LOG photo files comes this 1992 image of the 935-footlong LNG Gemini. The ship was built in 1978, with specs including gross tonnage of 95,084 and cubic-meter capacity of 125,000. It was part of an eight-vessel liquefied natural gas carrier fleet ably crewed by Seafarers for many years. WILMINGTON 510 N. Broad Ave., Wilmington, CA 90744 (310) 549-4000 If anyone has a vintage union-related photograph he or she would like to share with other Seafarers LOG readers, please send it to the Seafarers LOG, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. Photographs will be returned, if so requested. High-resolution digital images may be sent to webmaster@seafarers.org 16 Seafarers LOG 15050_OCT_13_LOG_X.indd 16 October 2013 9/24/2013 10:18:25 PM �Welcome Ashore Each month, the Seafarers LOG pays tribute to the SIU members who have devoted their working lives to sailing aboard U.S.-flag vessels on the deep seas, inland waterways or Great Lakes. Listed below are brief biographical sketches of those members who recently retired from the union. The brothers and sisters of the SIU thank those members for a job well done and wish them happiness and good health in the days ahead. DEEP SEA MOHAMED AHMED Brother Mohamed Ahmed, 65, began sailing with the SIU in 1994 from the port of New York. Brother Ahmed originally worked on the Independence. In 2000, he took advantage of educational opportunities at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Ahmed was born in Egypt and sailed as a steward department member. His most recent trip was aboard the Maersk Iowa. Brother Ahmed settled in New Hyde Park, N.Y. STEFAN BEREZIUK Brother Stefan Bereziuk, 65, became an SIU member in 1977. He initially worked with Dixie Carriers. Brother Bereziuk sailed in the deck department. His most recent trip to sea was on the Green Lake. He makes his home in Houston. WILLIAM BUNCH Brother William Bunch, 65, joined the union in 1991 while in New York. The steward department member first sailed on the Bonny. Brother Burch upgraded on three occasions at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. He last shipped aboard the USNS Pililau. Brother Burch was born in New Orleans and calls Fredericksburg, Va., home. MIGUEL CASTRO Brother Miguel Castro, 71, started sailing with the Seafarers in 1990. He was originally employed on the Maj. Stephen W. Pless. Brother Castro shipped in all three departments. He enhanced his skills in 2001 at the maritime training center in Piney Point, Md. Brother Castro’s last ship was the Eugene A. Obregon. He is a resident of Kenner, La. MILAGROS CLARK Sister Milagros Clark, 65, joined the SIU ranks in 1989. Her first ship was the Independence; her most recent, the Golden State. October 2013 15050_OCT_13_LOG_X2.indd 17 Sister Clark was born in the Philippines and worked in the steward department. She upgraded frequently at the Paul Hall Center. Sister Clark resides in Oakland, Calif. FRANCISCO DACRUZ Brother Francisco Dacruz, 62, donned the SIU colors in 2001 when the NMU merged with the Seafarers International Union. He was a steward department member. Brother Dacruz was born in Cape Verde. He upgraded on two occasions. Brother Dacruz’s most recent trip was aboard the Yorktown Express. He resides in Pawtucket, R.I. MARK DAVIS MAJOR SMITH Brother Major Smith, 65, joined the Seafarers in 1968. The engine department member’s earliest trip was with Valentine Chemical Carriers. Brother Smith enhanced his skills on numerous occasions at the Piney Point school. His most recent ship was the USNS 1st Lt. Harry Martin. Brother Smith continues to make his home in his native state of Alabama. Brother Mark Davis, 65, signed on with the Seafarers in 2001 during the SIU/NMU merger. He initially shipped on the USNS Capella as a member of the deck department. Brother Davis is a native of Ghana. He concluded his career aboard the Overseas Cascade. Brother Davis lives in Riverdale, Ga. Brother Theodore West, 65, began sailing with the union in 1989. He shipped aboard the Independence for the duration of his career. Brother West sailed in the steward department. He is a resident of McDonough, Ga. LARRY LOPEZ JAMES WOHLFERT Brother Larry Lopez, 66, started shipping with the SIU in 1973 while in New York. The steward department member first sailed with CSX Lines. Brother Lopez enhanced his skills twice at the Piney Point school. His most recent ship was the Patriot. Brother Lopez lives in Kissimmee, Fla. Brother James Wohlfert, 68, joined the SIU in 1998 while in Detroit. His first trip was aboard the McDonnell. The deck department member last CARL MOTLEY Brother Carl Motley, 71, began sailing with the SIU in 2002 after previously shipping with the NMU. His most recent trip was on the Chemical Pioneer. The deck department member attended classes often at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Motley lives in Martinsville, Va. KENNETH ROETZER Brother Kenneth Roetzer, 68, donned the SIU colors in 1989. He originally sailed aboard a vessel operated by Red Circle Transport Company. Brother Roetzer shipped in the steward department. He upgraded often at the Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md. worked on the Indiana Harbor. Brother Wohlfert calls Hubbardston, Mich., home. Brother Roetzer’s most recent trip was on the Marilyn. He was born in New York and now resides in Homosassa, Fla. THEODORE WEST INLAND Alabama native worked with Alabama Pilot Inc. for the duration of his career. Brother Godard makes his home in Point Clear, Ala. ALBERT CVITANOVICH JUNIOUS WILLIAMS Brother Albert Cvitanovich, 62, was born in California. He became an SIU member in 1980. Brother Cvitanovich mainly sailed with Crowley Towing & Transportation of Wilmington. He was a member of the engine department. Brother Cvitanovich lives in Ranchos Palos Verdes, Calif. Brother Junious Williams, 64, began shipping with the SIU in 1974 from the port of New Orleans. He first worked aboard the Overseas Anchorage. Brother Williams upgraded in 1978 and 2001 at the maritime training center in Piney Point. The engine department member is a Louisiana native. Brother Williams most recently sailed on the Terrapin Island. He lives in Harvey, La. THOMAS DOYLE Brother Thomas Doyle, 67, signed on with the Seafarers in 1977. He was born in New Orleans. Brother Doyle primarily worked with Crescent Towing of New Orleans. He resides in Gretna, La. JOSEPH GODARD Brother Joseph Godard, 62, started sailing with the union in 1999 while in Mobile, Ala. The GREAT LAKES RICHARD BRAY Brother Richard Bray, 65, joined the SIU in 1968. He was born in Michigan. Brother Bray’s first ship was the Huron Portland Cement; his most recent, the Paul Thay. He is a resident of Alpena, Mich. This Month In SIU History Editor’s note: The following items are reprinted from previous editions of the Seafarers LOG. 1939 On Wednesday, Oct. 2, in Savannah Ga., delegates from the Atlantic, Gulf and Great Lakes District met for the purpose of drafting a constitution for the Seafarers International Union. In addition to the basic constitution, issues to be voted on included the shipping rules, hospital and strike assessments and a constitutional amendment that provided that in order to become a member a man had to be a citizen. The constitution was adopted by a vote of 1,225 in favor and 180 opposed. The votes on the constitutional amendment, the shipping rules and the assessments were likewise carried by large majorities. 1952 Seafarers and their children will have an opportunity to get a four-year college education, free of charge, under a new plan proposed by the SIU and approved by the trustees of the Seafarers Welfare Plan. Beginning with the fall term of 1953, four students yearly will receive full college scholarships of $1,500 a year for four years, good at any recognized college or university in the U.S. and for any course selected. Money has already been set aside by the trustees for the scholarship fund to cover the next four years. This is the first scholarship plan in maritime and one of the few union scholarship plans in the U.S. The union scholarship will be enough in practically all cases to cover all tuitions and fees and still leave enough money for ample monthly subsistence payments. 1956 A dockside explosion due to a faulty line in the engine room of the SIU-manned cruise ship Alcoa Corsair is believed to have been the cause of last Saturday’s fire which killed one engineer and injured 11 Seafarers just seven hours before the ship was due to sail for the Caribbean. The dead man is Edward S. Moses, 69, of New Orleans and a member if the Marine Engineers Beneficial Association. All of the injured were SIU men. There were no passengers aboard at the time, and only about onethird of the regular crew. 1973 The crew of the SIU-manned Falcon Princess was praised by the U.S. Navy for conducting the first-ever, at-sea refueling of an amphibious vessel by a civilian charter tanker. The tanker pumped more than 158,000 gallons of oil to the USS Blue Ridge in just one hour and 10 minutes. The transfer was part of a Military Sealift Command program examining the feasibility of using civilian owned and manned vessels to support the operation of military vessels under MSC’s Charger Log IV Program – a test program that helped set the stage for future civilian charter ship and military vessel cooperation. Seafarers LOG 17 10/2/2013 11:33:12 AM �Final Departures DEEP SEA TOMMY ABELLO Pensioner Tommy Abello, 94, died March 21. He joined the Seafarers in 1962 while in San Francisco. Brother Abello was born in the Philippines. The steward department member was last employed aboard the President McKinley. Brother Abello retired in 1986 and called Union City, Calif., home. JOE CLARK Pensioner Joe Clark, 79, passed away March 17. Born in Austin, Texas, he began sailing with the union in 1998. Brother Clark first sailed on a Hudson Waterways vessel. He was a steward department member. Brother Clark most recently shipped aboard the Liberty Star. He went on pension in 1998. Brother Clark was a resident of Houston. GEORGE ELOT Brother George Elot, 86, died March 11. He began sailing with the SIU in 1946. Brother Elot was born in Elgin, Ill. His last trip was on the Elizabeth. Brother Elot worked in the engine department. He started collecting his pension in 1995 and called Staten Island, N.Y., home. HORACE GASKILL Pensioner Horace Gaskill, 86, passed away March 1. Brother Gaskill first donned the SIU colors in 1944. The deck department member was born in Carteret, N.C.. Brother Gaskill’s final ship was the Pittsburgh. He became a pensioner in 1982 and lived in Sea Level, N.C. LINTON REYNOLDS Pensioner Linton Reynolds, 71, died March 28. Brother Reynolds started shipping with the Seafarers in 1967 in the port of San Francisco. His first vessel was operated by ISCO Inc. His last ship was the Over- 18 Seafarers LOG 15050_Seafarers_OCT_13_LOG_lores.indd 18 15050_OCT_13_LOG.indd 18 seas Marilyn. Brother Reynolds was born in Iowa and shipped in the engine department. He went on pension in 2007 and settled in Dayton, Texas. MARK TURNER Brother Mark Turner, 47, passed away March 2. Born in Houston, he began sailing with the union in 2008. Brother Turner first sailed aboard the USNS Effective. He was a deck department member. Brother Turner most recently shipped on the Resolve. He was a resident of Missouri City, Texas. INLAND DORRIS MALEAR Pensioner Dorris “Bud” Malear, 89, died March 21. He signed on with the SIU in 1974 while in St. Louis. Brother Malear’s earliest trip was with National Marine Service. He last worked aboard an Orgulf Transport Company vessel. Brother Marlear was a member of both the steward and deck departments. He became a pensioner in 1988. Brother Malear was a Missouri native but called Granite City, Ill., home. FRANCIS VAUGHN Pensioner Francis Vaughn, 85, passed away March 9. He started sailing with the union in 1967. Brother Vaughn initially sailed on the Tam Guilden. He was born in Cromona, Ky. Brother Vaughn was a member of the engine department. His last trip was with G&H Towing. Brother Vaughn retired in 1992 and made his home in Lufkin, Texas. GREAT LAKES LEWIS DIEHL Pensioner Lewis Diehl, 78, died March 12. Brother Diehl was a Lookout, W.Va., native. He joined the SIU in 1954 in Fort Lauderdale, Fla. The deck department member’s final trip was aboard the H Lee White. Brother Diehl began receiving his pension in 1993. He called New Matamoras, Ohio, home. LEO DROUIN Pensioner Leo Drouin, 93, passed away March 9. He began sailing with the union in 1960. Brother Drouin was born in Ontario, Canada. He was a member of the engine department. Brother Drouin’s last ship was the St. Clair. He went on pension in 1984. Brother Drouin settled in Toledo, Ohio. Editor’s note: The following brothers and sister, all former members of the National Maritime Union (NMU), have passed away. ROBERT ALBERT Pensioner Robert Albert, 84, died Feb. 26. Brother Albert was born in Camden, Ala. He became a pensioner in 1967 and called Land O’Lakes, Fla., home. HARRIS ALLEYNE Pensioner Harris Alleyne, 83, passed away Feb. 10. Brother Alleyne, a native of Barbados, began collecting his pension in 1985. He resided in Los Angeles. EDGAR BEARD Pensioner Edgar Beard, 91, died Feb. 15. Brother Beard went on pension in 1986. He lived in Oklahoma. JAMES BENNETT Pensioner James Bennett, 86, passed away Feb. 26. Brother Bennett was born in Providence, R.I. He retired in 1994 and was a resident of Corpus Christi, Texas. JOHN BROOKS Pensioner John Brooks, 84, died Feb. 17. Born in Newnan, Ga., Brother Brooks became a pensioner in 1995. He called New Orleans home. RAUL CRUZ Pensioner Raul Cruz, 86, died March 10. Brother Cruz, a Puerto Rico native, went on pension in 1982. He called Perris, Calif., home. HARRY DAVIS Pensioner Harry Davis, 84, passed away Feb. 11. Born in Pensacola, Fla., Brother Davis started receiving his retirement compensation in 1974. He continued to live in Florida. GERALD DURSSE Pensioner Gerald Dursse, 78, died Feb. 16. Brother Dursse was born in South Carolina. He began collecting compensation for his retirement in 2001. Brother Durssee made his home in Charleston, S.C. BARBARA HURST Pensioner Barbara Hurst, 70, passed away March 16. Born in Atlanta, Texas, Sister Hurst started receiving her pension in 1997. She lived in Houston. GEORGE HUDDLESTON Pensioner George Huddleston, 72, died March 24. Brother Huddleston, a native of San Pedro, Calif., began collecting his pension in 2004. He made his home in Vashon Island, Wash. PERCY BROUSSARD Pensioner Percy Broussard, 87, passed away Feb. 8. Brother Broussard was born in Big Lake, La. He retired in 1968 and resided in New Sarpy, La. EDDIE JENKINS Pensioner Eddie Jenkins, 83, passed away Feb. 13. Brother Jenkins was born in New Orleans. He went on pension in 1985. Brother Jenkins made his home in Louisiana. ROBERT CALLIS Pensioner Robert Callis, 90, died Feb. 15. Brother Callis was a Virginia native. He started receiving his retirement pay in 1972. Brother Callis made his home in Hudgins, Va. THEODORE KACZYNSKI Pensioner Theodore Kaczynski, 83, died March 13. Brother Kaczynski was born in New York. He became a pensioner in 2001 and settled in Spring Hill, Fla. RICHARD CARVALHO Pensioner Richard Carvalho, 68, passed away Feb. 18. Brother Carvalho was a native of New Bedford, Mass. He began receiving his pension in 2010. Brother Carvalho lived in Massachusetts. FELIX LOVATO Pensioner Felix Lovato, 91, passed away Feb. 1. Brother Lovato was a native of New Mexico. He retired in 1977 and continued to reside in New Mexico. TAN CHANG Pensioner Tan Chang, 91, died Feb. 7. Brother Chang, a native of China, started collecting his retirement compensation in 1984. He lived in New York. WOODROW NELSON Pensioner Woodrow Nelson, 95, died Feb. 4. Brother Nelson was born in Rosenberg, Texas. He went on pension in 1980 and was a resident of Livingston, Texas. JOSE COBO Pensioner Jose Cobo, 92, passed away March 17. The Texas-born mariner became a pensioner in 1986. Brother Cobo settled in Spain. HAROLD QUARLES Pensioner Harold Quarles, 86, passed away March 4. Born in New York, Brother Quarles started receiving his retirement pay in 1968. He called East Or- ange City, N.J., home. RALPH RASH Pensioner Ralph Rash, 85, died Feb. 7. Brother Rash, a native of Dalhart, Texas, became a pensioner in 1982. He lived in Wells, Texas. SAMUEL REYNOLDS Pensioner Samuel Reynolds, 77, passed away March 21. Brother Reynolds was born in Virginia. He began collecting his pension in 2001 and made his home in Norfolk, Va. PHILLIP RICCI Pensioner Phillip Ricci, 86, died March 7. Born in Tiffin, Ohio, Brother Ricci went on pension in 1986. He settled in Lake Panasoffkee, Fla. FRANKLIN SESENTON Pensioner Franklin Sesenton, 70, passed away Feb. 2. Brother Sesenton was a native of Mayaguez, P.R. He began collecting compensation for his retirement in 1999. Brother Sesenton continued to reside in Puerto Rico. EUGENE SMITH Pensioner Eugene Smith, 85, died Feb. 10. Brother Smith, a native of Alabama, started receiving his pension in 1996. He was a resident of Mobile, Ala. LOUIA THOMAS Pensioner Louia Thomas, 77, passed away Jan. 21. Born in High Springs, Fla., Brother Thomas became a pensioner in 1997. He continued to make his home in Florida. ANSEL WILSON Pensioner Ansel Wilson, 87, died Feb. 14. Brother Wilson was born in Kansas. He went on pension in 1968 and lived in Andalusia, Ala. LONEY WILSON Pensioner Loney Wilson, 69, passed away Feb. 21. Brother Wilson was a native of Holly Grove, Ark. He started receiving his retirement pay in 1998 and called Memphis, Tenn., home. Name Bailey, Hubert Esquibel, Fernando Futrell, Walter Garcia, Rubildo Hanes, Rolf Hernandez, Roberto Lozada, Victor Mo, Tung Norman, Raymond Robinson, Horace Rodriguez, Miguel Zumwalt, Clarence Age 92 74 90 76 89 74 94 96 85 84 81 86 DOD Dec. 24 Feb. 8 Feb. 27 Jan. 25 Dec. 23 Feb. 2 Dec. 29 Dec. 25 Feb. 28 Feb. 23 Dec. 6 March 18 October 2013 9/21/13 3:50 PM 9/21/2013 3:06:46 PM �Digest of Shipboard Union Meetings SAM LAUD (American Steamship Company), June 13 – Chairman Amin A. Quraish, Secretary Joel E. Markle, Educational Director Timothy Orban. Chairman reported a smooth voyage. He also informed members that new mariners would be coming aboard. Crew was asked to take the time to show them the ropes. Secretary asked crew to keep doors closed so AC will not have to work so hard. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Some crew members were unhappy about current smoking policy. Next port: Cleveland. The Seafarers LOG attempts to print as many digests of union shipboard minutes as possible. On occasion, because of space limitations, some will be omitted. Ships’ minutes first are reviewed by the union’s contract department. Those issues requiring attention or resolution are addressed by the union upon receipt of the ships’ minutes. The minutes are then forwarded to the Seafarers LOG for publication. Maersk Peary Calls on Honolulu These recent photos of Seafarers aboard Maersk Line, Limited’s Maersk Peary were taken in Honolulu. AB Ian Harding, Safety Director Warren Asp CAPE INTREPID (Crowley), July 30 – Chairman Lbj B. Tanoa, Secretary Michael F. Meany, Educational Director Phillip L. Greenwell, Deck Delegate Marcus J. Hugee, Steward Delegate Talama Moega. Bosun expressed his gratitude to FOS crew. He thanked the steward department for good food and deck department for keeping outside of ship clean. Educational director urged all mariners to keep necessary documents current and enhance skills at Piney Point school. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Recommendation was made to increase retirement benefits. CHARLESTON EXPRESS (Crowley), July 21 – Chairman Michael J. Proveaux, Secretary Obencio M. Espinoza, Educational Director Terry T. Smith, Deck Delegate Edmond Francois, Engine Delegate Jerome Dooms, Steward Delegate Johnny Sawyer. Chairman went over ship’s itinerary and announced payoff on July 30 in Houston. Secretary asked crew to leave cabins clean and supplied with fresh linen for reliefs. Educational director reminded fellow members to keep an eye on document expiration dates, allow plenty of time for renewals and contribute to SPAD. Everyone was also encouraged to upgrade at the Paul Hall Center. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Suggestion was made to have chairs for watchstanders. Clarification was requested regarding new VPDSD (Vessel Personnel with Designated Security Duties) guidelines. Steward department was thanked for a job well done. Next port: Houston. MAERSK ATLANTA (Maersk Line, Limited), July 17 – Chairman Thomas P. Flanagan, Secretary Lauren J. Oram, Educational Director Paul M. Titus, Deck Delegate Carey Hatch, Engine Delegate Steven Shaffer, Steward Delegate James Kingsley. Chairman stated payoff to take place in Newark, N.J., on July 19. Mariners were reminded to clean rooms for next crew members. Secretary noted linens will be left for reliefs. Educational director suggested mariners upgrade at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. He also talked about the importance of staying current in the industry. October 2013 15050_Seafarers_OCT_13_LOG_lores.indd 19 15050_OCT_13_LOG.indd 19 Chief Steward Eric Clotter Bosun Ruben Datu, AB Ian Harding No beefs or disputed OT reported. It was reported that water fountain on C deck was not working. Members requested fans for their rooms. Next port: Newark. MAERSK CAROLINA (Maersk Line, Limited), July 14 – Chairman Ion Irimia, Secretary Alexander Banky III, Educational Director Kevin Cooper, Deck Delegate Robert Bakeman. Chairman urged Seafarers to stay healthy, work safely and do the best job they can. Secretary reported no losttime injures for 3,291 days and thanked crew for another safe voyage. He reminded mariners of the importance of contributing to SPAD, citing the recent Food for Peace battle as an example. Treasurer reported $2,500 in safety crew fund; money to be used for satellite TV system. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Motion was made to require new union representatives to have a minimum of three years’ sea time before they are eligible. Crew thanked steward department for great meals and Fourth of July cookout. Suggestions were made regarding vacation, pension and GSTU Raul Ventanilla medical benefits. Next ports: Newark, N.J., Charleston, S.C., Savannah, Ga., Houston and Mobile, Ala. MAERSK MISSOURI (Maersk Line, Limited), July 21 – Chairman Oliver M. Balico, Secretary Glenn C. Bamman, Educational Director Jerome D. Culbreth, Deck Delegate Juan Gomez, Jr. Engine Delegate Roger A. Nesbeth, Steward Delegate Brian T. McEleneny. Chairman reported smooth trip and good crew. Clarification requested on days’ pay in lieu of days-off requirement. Secretary asked crew to leave rooms neat for reliefs. Educational director recommended members further training at the Piney Point school and keep documents current. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Vote of thanks to steward department for a job well done. Next ports: Elizabeth, N.J., Charleston, S.C., Savannah, Ga., Houston and Mobile, Ala. MAERSK PEARY (Maersk Line, Limited), July 17 – Chairman Ruben V. Datu, Secretary Tony Spain, Educational Director Virgilio Demegill, Deck Delegate Fortunato Ranario, Engine Delegate Nicholas Gattuso, Steward Delegate Calvin Williams. Chairman discussed ship’s schedule and talked about new Crowley tankers that have been ordered. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew would like direct deposit of vacation checks. It was noted that new fans have been received but some plugs need to be replaced. HORIZON ANCHORAGE (Horizon Lines), August 4 – Chairman Christopher K. Pompel, Secretary Scott A. Opsahl, Educational Director William C. Mogg, Steward Delegate Louie Aceridano. Bosun went over itinerary and talked about recent changes in MTD. Secretary posted information of security awareness training and who to contact in the mess hall. Educational director stated it’s not getting any easier to get a job; he stressed the importance of upgrading to stay competitive. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Suggestion was made to return to rotary shipping with 75-day jobs. Crew would also like more Chief Cook Robert Borro coverage for dental benefits. Next port: Tacoma, Wash. HORIZON KODIAK (Horizon Lines), August 11 – Chairman Garry D. Walker, Secretary Lovie L. Perez, Educational Director Christopher L. Earhart, Deck Delegate Mark Pesola, Engine Delegate Ralph D. Thomas. Chairman informed crew members that new dryer for crew laundry should arrive in Tacoma on August 14 along with the satellite dome. He urged members to keep dues up-todate and donate to SPAD, the union’s voluntary political action fund. Orange metal can was put in garbage room to dispose of used batteries. Secretary advised members to check out www. seafarers.org to see current dues, medical eligibility and sea time. Educational director reminded fellow members to keep an eye on document expiration dates, allow plenty of time for renewals, and also head to Piney Point to upgrade. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Request was made for a new toaster in crew mess room. Next ports: Tacoma, Wash., Anchorage, Alaska and Kodiak, Alaska. Seafarers LOG 19 9/21/13 3:50 PM 9/21/2013 3:06:51 PM �Waterfront Park Takes Shape, Shows Appeal of Donating Bricks The waterfront renovation project at the union-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md., is taking shape and showing why it’s a great location for Seafarers and their loved ones to commemorate individuals, groups and organizations through the school’s brick donation program. Lining the waterfront park and its distinctive lighthouse are a collection of bricks that – with a donation – can be engraved with text and graphics designed to honor both groups and individuals. The waterfront park’s scenic addition to the campus ensures those being honored will have a permanent and fitting place of remembrance within the maritime community. The donation of a brick also comes with an entry in the program’s name-thepark contest, offering donors yet another chance to leave their mark. The bricks come in two sizes and may be ordered online at: http://seafarers.org/ SIUBricks.htm. The sizes include a traditional-sized brick (4 x 8 inches x 2.25) with three lines of engraving for a donation of $125 and a larger brick (8 x 8 inches x 2.25) with six lines of engraving for a donation of $250. The larger version also may be ordered with a corporate logo and up to three lines of text (subject to space limitations based on the logo) for a donation of $300. If submitting a logo, please note that it cannot be sent through the online order form. Logos (either in EPS, AI, PDF or high-resolution JPG, BMP or TIF format) should be emailed to si- ubricks@seafarers.org. Please include your contact information. While proceeds from brick donations will be used to help offset some of the costs of the overall restoration (a multimillion dollar endeavor), the program’s larger aim is to beautify PHC’s waterfront area while giving people an opportunity to share memories and honor others in a lasting way. For instance, an engraved brick may be for a particular lifeboat class, an instructor, or a crew that performed a heroic rescue. Brick donators may want to honor the memory of a departed loved one, or some other person who helped them along the way. Or, they may want to salute a company or an individual that’s made a difference for the U.S. Merchant Marine. The possibilities are almost limitless, and the engravings do not have to be related to the school. Everyone is encouraged to join in and support this worthwhile project. Questions as well as name-the-park submissions may be emailed to SIUBricks@ seafarers.org. These recent photos show the waterfront park at the union-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. With a donation, Seafarers and their loved ones can have a brick along the walkway engraved to commemorate a group, organization or individual. Know Your Rights FINANCIAL REPORTS. The Constitution of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters makes specific provision for safeguarding the membership’s money and union finances. The constitution requires a detailed audit by certified public accountants every year, which is to be submitted to the membership by the secretary-treasurer. A yearly finance committee of rank-and-file members, elected by the membership, each year examines the finances of the union and reports fully their findings and recommendations. Members of this committee may make dissenting reports, specific recommendations and separate findings. TRUST FUNDS. All trust funds of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters are administered in accordance with the provisions of various trust fund agreements. All these agreements specify that the trustees in charge of these funds shall equally consist of union and management representatives and their alternates. All expenditures and disbursements of trust funds are made only upon approval by a majority of the trustees. All trust fund financial records are available at the headquarters of the various trust funds. SHIPPING RIGHTS. A member’s shipping rights and seniority are protected exclusively by contracts between the union and the employers. Members should get to know their shipping rights. Copies of these contracts are posted and available in all union halls. If members believe there have been violations of their shipping or seniority rights as contained in the contracts between the union and the employers, they should notify the Seafarers Appeals Board by certified mail, return receipt 20 Seafarers LOG 15050_Seafarers_OCT_13_LOG_lores.indd 20 15050_OCT_13_LOG.indd 20 requested. The proper address for this is: Augustin Tellez, Chairman Seafarers Appeals Board 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 Full copies of contracts as referred to are available to members at all times, either by writing directly to the union or to the Seafarers Appeals Board. CONTRACTS. Copies of all SIU contracts are available in all SIU halls. These contracts specify the wages and conditions under which an SIU member works and lives aboard a ship or boat. Members should know their contract rights, as well as their obligations, such as filing for overtime (OT) on the proper sheets and in the proper manner. If, at any time, a member believes that an SIU patrolman or other union official fails to protect their contractual rights properly, he or she should contact the nearest SIU port agent. EDITORIAL POLICY — THE SEAFARERS LOG. The Seafarers LOG traditionally has refrained from publishing any article serving the political purposes of any individual in the union, officer or member. It also has refrained from publishing articles deemed harmful to the union or its collective membership. This established policy has been reaffirmed by membership action at the September 1960 meetings in all constitutional ports. The responsibility for Seafarers LOG policy is vested in an editorial board which consists of the executive board of the union. The executive board may delegate, from among its ranks, one individual to carry out this responsibility. PAYMENT OF MONIES. No monies are to be paid to anyone in any official capacity in the SIU unless an official union receipt is given for same. Under no circumstances should any member pay any money for any reason unless he is given such receipt. In the event anyone attempts to require any such payment be made without supplying a receipt, or if a member is required to make a payment and is given an official receipt, but feels that he or she should not have been required to make such payment, this should immediately be reported to union headquarters. CONSTITUTIONAL RIGHTS AND OBLIGATIONS. Copies of the SIU Constitution are available in all union halls. All members should obtain copies of this constitution so as to familiarize themselves with its contents. Any time a member feels any other member or officer is attempting to deprive him or her of any constitutional right or obligation by any methods, such as dealing with charges, trials, etc., as well as all other details, the member so affected should immediately notify headquarters. EQUAL RIGHTS. All members are guaranteed equal rights in employment and as members of the SIU. These rights are clearly set forth in the SIU Constitution and in the contracts which the union has negotiated with the employers. Consequently, no member may be discriminated against because of race, creed, color, sex, national or geographic origin. If any member feels that he or she is denied the equal rights to which he or she is entitled, the member should notify union headquarters. SEAFARERS POLITICAL ACTIVITY DONATION (SPAD). SPAD is a separate segregated fund. Its proceeds are used to further its objects and purposes including, but not limited to, furthering the political, social and economic interests of maritime workers, the preservation and furthering of the American merchant marine with improved employment opportunities for seamen and boatmen and the advancement of trade union concepts. In connection with such objects, SPAD supports and contributes to political candidates for elective office. All contributions are voluntary. No contribution may be solicited or received because of force, job discrimination, financial reprisal, or threat of such conduct, or as a condition of membership in the union or of employment. If a contribution is made by reason of the above improper conduct, the member should notify the Seafarers International Union or SPAD by certified mail within 30 days of the contribution for investigation and appropriate action and refund, if involuntary. A member should support SPAD to protect and further his or her economic, political and social interests, and American trade union concepts. NOTIFYING THE UNION — If at any time a member feels that any of the above rights have been violated, or that he or she has been denied the constitutional right of access to union records or information, the member should immediately notify SIU President Michael Sacco at headquarters by certified mail, return receipt requested. The address is: Michael Sacco, President Seafarers International Union 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746. October 2013 9/21/13 3:50 PM 9/21/2013 3:06:52 PM �Paul Hall Center Upgrading Course Information The following is a schedule of courses at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md., for the next few months. All programs are geared toward improving the job skills of Seafarers and promoting the American maritime industry. Please note that this schedule may change to reflect the needs of the membership, the maritime industry and—in times of conflict—national security. Students attending any of these classes should check in the Saturday before their course’s start date. The courses listed here will begin promptly on the morning of the start dates. For classes ending on a Friday, departure reservations should be made for Saturday. Seafarers who have any questions regarding the upgrading courses offered at the Paul Hall Center may call the admissions office at (301) 994-0010. Title of Course Start Date Date of Completion Deck Department Lifeboatman/Water Survival October 12 November 9 December 7 October 25 November 22 December 20 STOS (RFPNW) November 9 December 6 Able Seaman October 12 November 16 November 8 December 13 December 16 December 16 Radar Renewal (One day) Engine Department FOWT October 12 November 8 Junior Engineer Pumpman October 26 November 30 December 20 December 13 Welding October 26 November 30 November 15 December 20 Safety Upgrading Courses Basic Firefighting/STCW October 19 November 16 October 25 November 22 BST Renewal/VPDSD October 26 November 2 November 30 December 7 November 1 November 8 December 6 December 13 Government Vessels September 14 October 12 November 9 September 20 October 18 November 15 Medical Care Provider December 7 December 13 Tank PIC Barge (DL) October 14 October 18 UPGRADING APPLICATION Name ________________________________________________________________________ Address ______________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________ Telephone (Home)_________________________ (Cell)_________________________ Date of Birth __________________________________________________________________ Deep Sea Member o Lakes Member o Inland Waters Member o If the following information is not filled out completely, your application will not be processed. Social Security #_______________________ Book # _________________________________ Seniority_____________________________ Department_____________________________ Home Port____________________________________________________________________ E-mail_______________________________________________________________________ Endorsement(s) or License(s) now held_____________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________ Are you a graduate of the SHLSS/PHC trainee program? o Yes o No If yes, class # __________________________________________________________________ Have you attended any SHLSS/PHC upgrading courses? o Yes o No If yes, course(s) taken____________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________ With this application, COPIES of the following must be sent: One hundred and twenty-five (125) days seatime for the previous year, one day in the last six months prior to the date your class starts, USMMD (z-card) front and back or relevant pages of merchant mariner credential, front page of your union book indicating your department and seniority, qualifying seatime for the course if it is Coast Guard tested, 1995 STCW Certificate, valid SHBP Clinic Card and TWIC. October 2013 15050_Seafarers_OCT_13_LOG_lores.indd 21 15050_OCT_13_LOG.indd 21 Title of Course Start Date Date of Completion Small Arms Training October 19 October 25 Steward Department Upgrading Courses Chief Steward October 5 November 15 Serve Safe November 23 November 29 Galley Operations These modules start every Monday. Chief Cook These modules start every other week. The next class will begin October 14. Advanced Galley Operations These modules start every Monday. NMC Website Provides Useful Mariner Resources The National Maritime Center (NMC), the licensing authority for the U.S. Coast Guard, offers a comprehensive website covering mariner credentialing, medical guidelines and much more. The site features a wide range of applications and forms, deck- and engine-department exam information, lists of Coast Guard-approved courses and more. Seafarers are encouraged to check out the site at: http://www.uscg. mil/nmc/ Mariners may call the NMC at 1-888-IASKNMC (1-888-427-5662). Operational hours are 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. EST, Monday through Friday. (The NMC is closed for all federal holidays.) Various email forms also are available through the NMC website. Important Notice For Paul Hall Center Students Students who have registered for classes at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, but later discover for whatever reason - that they can’t attend, should inform the admissions department immediately so arrangements can be made to have other students take their places. Students who have registered for classes at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, but later discover - for whatever reason - that they can’t attend, should inform the admissions department immediately so arrangements can be made to have other students take their places. COURSE ____________________________ START DATE _______________ DATE OF COMPLETION _______________________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________________ LAST VESSEL: ___________________________________ Rating: ____________________ Date On: _______________________________ Date Off:____________________________ SIGNATURE ____________________________________ DATE______________________ NOTE: Transportation will be paid in accordance with the scheduling letter only if you present original receipts and successfully complete the course. If you have any questions, contact your port agent before departing for Piney Point. Not all classes are reimbursable.Return completed application to: Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education Admissions Office, P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674-0075; or fax to (301) 994-2189. The Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education is a private, non-profit, equal opportunity institution and admits students, who are otherwise qualified, of any race, nationality or sex. The school complies with applicable laws with regard to admission, access or treatment of students in its programs or activities. 10/13 Seafarers LOG 21 9/21/13 3:50 PM 9/21/2013 3:06:53 PM �Paul Hall Center Classes Apprentice Water Survival Class #776 – Thirteen Phase 1 trainees completed this course Aug. 30. Those graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Travis Abbott, Carlos Arzuaga Flores, Nicole Donald, Tomaszewska Grazyna, Abdoe Rahman Jobe, Tyler Jones, Imran Khan, Lauren LaFond, Jean-Paul Lozada, Robert Mack II, David Myrick, Martin O’Brien and John Thompson. Class Instructor Ben Cusic is at the far right. Welding – Five upgraders finished their requirements in this course Aug. 16. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Davis Freitas, Jason Horn, Ryan Taylor, Erric White and Davis Whitley. Buzzy Andrews, their instructor, is third from the left. Basic Auxiliary Plant Operations – Fifteen Phase I and Phase III apprentices graduated from this course Aug. 16. Completing their requirements (above, in alphabetical order) were: Kasim Ahmed, Alvin Cabahit, Sean Foote, Jacob Gaskill, John Greggs, Jon Mahannah, Whalen Martin, Raymond Martinez, Nicholas Panagakos, James Rodweller, Chase Smith, Mario Standberry, Nicole Stephenson, Brandon Thornton and Christopher Van Hoose. John Wiegman, their instructor, is at the far left. Basic Auxiliary Plant Operations – Six upgraders completed the enhancement of their skills in this course Aug. 16. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Kyle Bennett, Justin Bing, Melchor Lapac Jr., Mohammed Sarreshtedar, Lamont Stewart II and Florencio Tingugan. Class Instructor John Wiegman is at the far left. Fast Rescue Boat – The following upgraders (above, in alphabetical order) graduated from this course Aug. 9: Michael Cousin, James Kayser, Ryan Lindsoe, William Smith and John Sorsdal. Class instructor Tom Truitt is at the left. Water Survival Class #776 – Three upgraders finished this course Aug. 30. Those graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Samuel Javier, Julian Lina and Brian Wilder. Tankship Familiarization DL – Nineteen Seafarers graduated from this course Aug. 9. Finishing their requirements (above, in alphabetical order) were: Maximo Aguirah, Carlton Banks, Mario Batiz, Michael Blue, Gregorio Cudal, Ely Desingano, Walden Galacgac, Dominador Hugo Jr., Samuel Javier, Kevin Kelly, Ronald Lukacs, Edgar Parong, Arturo Reyes, Jonathan Rivera-Rodriguez, Reinaldo Roman, Jacob Teiko, Andrzej Tlalka, Mario Torrey and Pio Vili. Jim Shaffer, the class instructor, is standing at the left in the back row. 22 Seafarers LOG 15050_Seafarers_OCT_13_LOG_lores.indd 22 15050_OCT_13_LOG.indd 22 ARPA – Three individuals completed the enhancement of their skills in this course Aug. 16. Finishing their requirements (above, from left) were: James Luttrell and Efren Pahinag. Timothy Hess (not pictured) also finished the class. Designated Duty Engineer – Two upgraders graduated from this course Aug. 9. Successfully enhancing their skills were Jeffrey Roddy (above left) and Bryan Fletcher (center). Their instructor, Jay Henderson, is at right. October 2013 9/21/13 3:50 PM 9/21/2013 3:06:58 PM �Paul Hall Center Classes Government Vessels- Seven individuals completed the enrichment of their skills in this course Aug. 9. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Dawa Anastacio, George Arcenal, Edgar Castillo, Brian Robison, George Steube, Jesselo Unabia and Thomas Weber. Combined Basic and Advanced Firefighting – The following individuals (above, in alphabetical order) graduated from this course Aug. 23: Richard Abshire, Ahmed Ali, Edgardo Barrios, Davis Freitas, Raymond Henderson, Charlie Herrera, William Horton, Mark Merenda, Shawana Mills, Efren Pahinag, Kareem Walters, Philandar Walton and Eeric White. Class Instructors Wayne Johnson Sr., and Wayne Johnson Jr., are at the far left and far right, respectively. Medical Care Provider – Ten Seafarers improved their skills by completing this course Aug. 30. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Omar Aswad, Joven Deocampo, Thomas Jones, Efren Pahinag, George Pobee, Leonard Renaud, Coda Russell, Carlos Sanchez, Wiliam Sculley III and Eeric White. Their instructor, Wayne Johnson Jr., is at the far right. BST Renewal – Four individuals finished their requirements in this course Aug. 23. Those graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Bob Borchester, Joven Deocampo, Cory Mulligan and William Sculley. Class Instructor Joe Zienda is at the left. BST (SIU) – The following Seafarers (above, in alphabetical order) boosted their skills when they graduated from this course Aug. 16: Dimitri Baker, Joel Bell, Robert Borro, William Dukes, Bernardino Eda, Leoncio Gadingan, Frederick Gathers, Charles Hill, Jeffrey Idalski, Derek Ivory, Younis Kaid, Edwardo Meregillano, Ma Marilynda Nance, Neal Nelson, Mitch Oakley, Cary Pratts, Jonamie Rivera Encarnacion, Johnny Rodriguez, Deocadio Romney, Marcus Rowe and Wayne Yearbain. Wayne Johnson Sr., their instructor, is at the far right. BST (Crowley) – Twenty four individuals from union-contracted Crowley Maritime completed this course Aug. 21. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Dominic Bailey, Andrew Berthelson, Shane Cawley, Eric Dobbin, Patrick Farrell, George Fleischfresser, Cory Gardiner, Angelo Golden, Karen Gossett, Kenneth Grayson II, Ronel Guerzon, David Hall, Paul Kalmeta, Tim LeClair, Kenneth McLamb, Mark Miles, Marc Normandin, Calvin Patterson, Tyler Percy, Ricky Reid, Jack Rupert, William Stubbs, Robert Taylor and Brian Towers. Class Instructor Mike Roberts is at the far left. October 2013 15050_Seafarers_OCT_13_LOG_lores.indd 23 15050_OCT_13_LOG.indd 23 BST (SIU) – Seventeen Seafarers augmented their skills by completing their requirements in this course Aug. 16. Those graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Martin Allred, Emery Batiste, Mario Batiz, Tim Daniel, Ely Desingano, Evan Flynn, Larry Genetiano, Johnny Godwin, DeCarlo Harris, Derrick Lott, Mark Merenda, Mohamed Nour, Reinaldo Roman, Thessolonian Smith, Andrzej Tlalka, Pio Vili and Adele Williams. Class Instructor Wayne Johnson Sr. is at the far right. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Chief Steward – Three steward members recently finished their requirements in this course. Upgrading their skills and graduating (above, from left to right) were: Strode Call, Dariusz Czepezynski, and Saeed Alahmadi. Chief Steward – Three Seafarers recently completed the enhancement of their skills in the course. Those graduating (above, from left to right) were: Thessolonian Smith, Jessica Crockett and Larry Genetiano. Seafarers LOG 23 9/21/13 3:50 PM 9/21/2013 3:07:02 PM �Volume 75, Number 10 October 2013 Paul Hall Center Course Dates Page 21 SIU-Crewed Crowley Tug Serves as Platform For Rep. Hunter’s Firsthand Look at Industry One of the U.S. Merchant Marine’s most outspoken supporters took a firsthand look at part of the maritime industry Sept. 6 in Los Angeles. U.S. Rep. Duncan Hunter (R-Calif.), chairman of the House Subcommittee on Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation, rode the SIU-crewed Crowley tug Admiral shortly after addressing the Maritime Trades Department, AFL-CIO convention (see story, page 10). He was given a warm sendoff at the dock by Crowley Maritime CEO/Chairman Tom Crowley Jr., and enthusiastically interacted with the SIU crew throughout the voyage around the harbor. The photos on this page were taken while Rep. Hunter was aboard the tug The SIU crew consisted of (from left) AB Alejandro Esparza, Chief Engineer Craig Perry, Capt. Chad MacAulay and Chief Mate Nick Dueul. Crowley Maritime CEO/Chairman Tom Crowley Jr. (left) and U.S. Rep. Duncan Hunter (R-Calif.) are pictured aboard the Admiral. SIU VP West Coast Nick Marrone (center) is flanked by Crowley Labor Relations Director Lee Egland (right) and USA Maritime Chairman Jim Henry before boarding the tug. Rep. Hunter (left) takes a quick turn at the helm as Chief Mate Nick Dueul and others look on. AB Alejandro Esparza 15050_OCT_13_LOG_X.indd 24 AB Alejandro Esparza, SIU Port Agent Jeff Turkus Chief Engineer Craig Perry 9/24/2013 10:23:33 PM � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Seafarers Log Issues 2010-2019 Description An account of the resource Volumes LXXII-LXXXI of the Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Seafarers Log Digital Copies Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 2010-2019 Document A resource containing textual data. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre text. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource October 2013 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES MARITIME TRANSPORT DELIVERS COMMANDERS, CONGRESSMEN, BUSINESS AND LABOR LEADERS ADDRESS MTD SEABULK ORDERS JONES ACT TANKERS NASSCO TO CONSTRUCT 2 VESSELS FOR SIU-CONTRACTED COMPANY SEAFARERS HEALTH AND BENEFITS PLAN UPGRADES ITS CIGNA NETWORK SHBP ARMS MEMBERSHIP WITH FACTS PERTAINING TO AFFORDABLE CARE ACT CONVENTION MAPS OUT STRATEGIES TO BOOST INDUSTRY COMMANDERS, CONGRESSMEN, LABOR AND INDUSTRY LEADERS ADDRESS MTD AFL-CIO CONVENTION SHINES NATIONAL SPOTLIGHT ON LABOR RETIRED ILA PRESIDENT HUGHES DIES AT 79 SIU-CREWED CROWLEY TUGS DELIVER LARGEST OFFSHORE PLATFORM TO GULF SEAFARERS HELP RESCUE SYRIAN REFUGEES MAERSK UTAH AIDS ITALIAN COAST GUARD NEAR SICILY UNION OFFICIALS, PHC STAFF PROVIDE ACTIVE SEAFARERS INSTRUCTIONS FOR OBTAINING STCW SECURITY ENDORSEMENTS TRAINEES REPRESENT SIU DURING HISTORIC RALLY IN D.C. USS MONTFORD POINT ACES INSPECTION ‘YOU’RE THE BACKBONE OF OUR SUCCESS’ USTRANSCOM, MSC COMMANDERS STRESS VALUE OF INDUSTRY PARTNERSHIPS MTD BACKS U.S. TROOPS, NATION’S MANY VETERANS CONGRESSMEN SHOW STRONG SUPPORT FOR MARITIME REPRESENTATIVES VOW TO DEFENSE MSP, FOOD FOR PEACE, JONES ACT CROWLEY FOCUSES ON SAFETY, WELLNESS, GROWTH LABOR LEADERS CALL FOR UNITY, CHANGE MARAD PLANNING NEW STRATEGY TO REVITALIZE INDUSTRY VIGOR INDUSTRIAL CEO ADVISES CONVENTION ATTENDEES ‘KEEP IT SIMPLE’ IN WORKPLACE WATERFRONT PARK TAKES SHAPE, SHOWS APPEAL OF DONATING BRICKS SIU-CREWED CROWLEY TUG SERVES AS PLATFORM FOR REP. HUNTER’S FIRSTHAND LOOK AT INDUSTRY Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Seafarers Log Digital Copies Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 10/01/2013 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Newsprint Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context Vol. 75, No. 10 2013 Periodicals Seafarers Log